Near the fountain in merchant's square, Adventurer's guild agent Saskali Kolaj stands with Murbak Al Fahid, a plainly, but well dressed man wearing a turban and steel framed lenses over his eyes, surveying a number of laborers and guards waiting for evaluation for hiring. Along with them is an armored man, Hassim ab Queber.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:50, Sun 24 Sept 2017.

Moving a bit uncertainly he steps close to the men hiring the caravan members.

Could yoo ussse a healer and holy fighter?

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 2):

"Are you affiliated with the guild? I cannot recommend you if you are not, unless you can demonstrate your ability effectively enough for us to guage your rate of pay."

Guild? I know not of guild  .... but would feel bad to cutting you up and trying to heal one time again...

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 4):

"I see your weapon is a greatsword. Spar with me using a staff, that I might judge your skill. As to healing, we will find, rather than make a wounded person.:

I have no staff with me... do you have an extra?



He is given a staff and comes on guard. Passerby's suddenly move away to avoid a thwack by mistake.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:46, Mon 25 Sept 2017.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 6):

Hassim nods and steps into position with his staff.


Lets do: 3 attacks and 3 parries each.

Sssertainly... He takes what appears to be a moderately high swing but drops it dow to knee level as he brings it across, and steps left bring the staff back up on guard.




[Private to GM:  16:08, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 9 using 3d6.  Swing.  made by 8]

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 8):

Your tap gets just past his parry, but his swing on you looks pretty goood!

He makes a great parry move but just misses the opposing sword regardless...  He steps back and salutes his opponent.





[Private to GM: 11:56, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 15 using 3d6.  Parry. Skill is 14  so he failed to parry]

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 10):

"One each. Shall we continue?"

He nods and Feints from the left..




[Private to GM: 17:58, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 12 using 3d6.  Sword  Swing. Success by 5]
This message was last edited by the player at 18:09, Fri 29 Sept 2017.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 12):

Hasim attamots a parry of your attack, and his staff only slides against
Your, allowing the staff to strike at him.

He follows through with a sweep of your legs that may require a dodge to avoid.

He steps out of the way and then executes a stab at the man's chest (Vitals).




[Private to GM: 11:11, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 10 using 3d6.  Dodge success by 1
11:12, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 10 using 3d6.  Sword Thrust - Vitals.  Success by 7  AND his opponent should be at -5 to defend ]

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 14):

He fails to parry, eager as he is to strike, that his staff follows through, and may end up striking  you as well...

He manages a parry after his thrust, stopping the swing.




[Private to GM:  19:13, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 12 using 3d6.  Parry. made by 2]

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 16):

The man grunts at the impact of the strike and lowers the staff.
"That will do. We will hire you on."

"What thingsss might I need to acquire?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:25, Thu 05 Oct 2017.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 18):

"Bring such gear as you might need traveling accross mountains.  We will provide food and water as needed, but you are responsible for any unusual things as you require. Provisions  will be deducted from your pay, whether you partake or not."

He nods, isss there  placess where I can acquire magical resssstorives and potionsss





[Private to GM: This is the opportunity to send him to the guild... he can buy in and buy Paut, and perhaps other elixers.]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:17, Fri 06 Oct 2017.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 20):

"I do not deal in such things. Perhaps one of Master Kolaj's associates in the Adventurers Guild does."

Adventurersss guild? Where isss thissss?

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 22):

"Two streets up, make a right. Looks like a fortification with a gate house."
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:58, Sun 08 Oct 2017.

My Thankssss, I will go there now.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 24):

Do any stocking ooc

Barely a day goes by before Gorgath gets the itch to make some money again. Word has finally made it's way to the ogre's brain and he now finds himself in the merchant's square, trying to find who's in charge.

[Private to GM: I'm assuming I am going here.]

In reply to Gorgath (msg # 26):

The caravan leader recoils slightly as the towering form of Gorgath approaches.
"Kolaj, is this walking mountain affiliated with you?"

In reply to Mubark Al Fahid (msg # 27):

Gareth, following in the others here, watched the big Ogre he is familiar with approach ahead of them.

In reply to Mubark Al Fahid (msg # 27):

The recruiter raises his eyebrows.
"That is Gorgath, a member of the Deepguard. He is known for
protecting shipments of silver from the King's mines, before the mines
were lost. Recently he has been invokved in escorting a member of your
guild underground, and I am told it was a successful mission.
I was not expecting him to come..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:21, Mon 17 Dec 2018.

In reply to Saskali Kolaj (msg # 29):

"Hasim, do you wish to spar with this one also?"

In reply to Mubark Al Fahid (msg # 30):

"I would rather not. He seems to come well recommended."

The ex-noble wandered into the area full of Caravans, he was trudging through the ground, but still kept his head up well enough to see all of the options "Which one is the correct one then AMelia?

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 32):

"The fellow with the spectacles, Al Fahid is the leader."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:02, Thu 19 Oct 2017.

He comes back to the Caravan leader with his new purchases.  Ready to go

Sorsha follows along with her cousin. She looks around to see what they might be carrying.

Shroud follows close, taking note of what everyone is doing.

Haveron grinned and then headed over to the spectacled man "Ho, My companion here tells me you're in need of people to make sure no ill-fortune befalls your caravan" he said, getting to the point straight away.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 37):

"Kolaj, I see some of these have the marks of your guild. Are they known to you?"

In reply to Mubark Al Fahid (msg # 38):

"We are a group sent by the guild, as is our Orgish friend here. Most of us have met each other, though only a few of us have worked together before."

Sorsha walks over to Mubark Al Fahid "Greetings. I am from the guild to go with the caravan, me and My cousin. I am Sorsha."

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 40):

"Yes, the shadow elf, sorceress, good with lightning, and her cousin the cabinet maker and locksmith, they have worked with the Deep Guard ogre, and I see the fellow in sandals is new to the guild and good with fire. The knightly fellow is a competant swordsman and his agent are known to us as well. Are there any others?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:01, Sun 22 Oct 2017.

In reply to Saskali Kolaj (msg # 41):

"Another mage, Berry I believe her name was, and a scout, Shroud. They around here somewhere?"

"I do some scout work for the guild as well as some expeditions." Shroud says from behind Gareth.

Haveron glanced around and smiled at the introductions, satisfied that they would be vouched for. "Aye, we're with the guild and we'd like to offer service to your caravan to ensure it makes its way safely to the intended destination.

They're a good lot, here. And I suspect that their number would deter even the most intent of bandits

In reply to Gareth (msg # 42):

"Ah, Shroud. Much spoken of, rarely seen. This Berry, if I recall correctly,  is one of our kitchen witches, a spellcaster who can cook."

In reply to Saskali Kolaj (msg # 45):

A dark complected man with long braids and a bow gives shroud a once over.
"A scout, eh? What is your preferred terrain? We are going to be in the mountains. "

In reply to Aldubu Alsaghir (msg # 46):

"My preferred terrain is a city and no, I do not use a bow." Shroud response, not really giving the man notice.

"I can sneak some and I have spell missile weapons. But I too prefer the city"

Sssso all are City folk

Gorgath nods at his polearm.

"No problem. I here for good money."

In reply to Gorgath (msg # 50):

"Oh, yes. Fires work well out of the city as well as in it. So does magic, in my experience. Pleasantries done? Can we leave now and get to work?"

In reply to Gareth (msg # 42):

OOC: Berry took a short detour to consult with her Mentor. She'll be along shortly!

Haveron chuckled ad Gareth's impatience and then added to the caravan master "Well, I wouldn't let their city savvy concern you too much. You just need capable people to protect your caravan if the deterrant isn't enough.

I can give you some assurances that we'd be more than competant at ensuring your investment doesn't fall into unsavoury hands.

Also, given how quickly this lot seem to burn through their coin, I think they have added incentive to get paid for a job well done he said, and then added with an additional chuckle.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 53):

"If all of you are cirified, you are going to have to trust in me to get through the mountains. "

Gorgath turns to Haveron,

"Who you? Why you speak for me?"

She looks at Gorgath "Well, I am a city girl. Though if the mountains are anything like the undergraound, I do have experience with that"

In reply to Aldubu Alsaghir (msg # 54):

Why? What be You?

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 57):

Gareth turns to Gorgath.

"Haveron has a big mouth, so I let him use it for us so we don't have to waste time talking. You don't have to, but it might suit you as it suits me. Say, where is Berry...Haveron, you seem to have lost her on the way here. She will be along presently, I presume..."

[OOC: Yes, I did read Berries note, but Gareth didn't, so I am filling in for it IC!]

Haveron's visage darkened at Gareth's comments Now now, better be sure to keep polite in polite society he said. Then he looked at Gorgath "I didn't speak for you, I spoke for those that had come to the caravans with me from the inn

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 57):
The scout looks intently at the lizard warrior, and shrugs.
"I am the guide in service to this caravan. I grew up in these mountains, and I have spent time beneath the guild here as well. If you are good with the trails we take, I find that respectable."

In reply to Aldubu Alsaghir (msg # 60):

Noticing Haverons visage darken, Gareth responds

"No insult intended. Just describing as I saw it, though perhaps not using the most suitable words. Word and their meanings seem to have subtly changed since..." His voice trails off.

In reply to Aldubu Alsaghir (msg # 60):

Then your wordsss make sensssssse

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 62):

"Prepare the usual contracts."

So when do we leave. I can't wait to get going."

In reply to Mubark Al Fahid (msg # 63):

"Rhe caravan leaves tomorrow. "


Contracts are as follows:
Expected duration of journey is 2 weeks

(Base rate - $150 COL per week)
62pt: $200- $150=$50 per week
125pt: $400- $150=$250 per week
187 pt: $600- $150=$450 per week
250pt: $800- $150=$650 per week

Possibilities exist for bonus pay;
Base rate is altered by wealth level.
Pay is dispensed at end of journey, when the caravan breaks up in Al Menir.

In reply to Mubark Al Fahid (msg # 65):

"Right. How do we get bonus pay?"

Haveron grinned at Gareth and then casually mentioned I expect it'd involve putting some people back to the mud

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 67):

"Probably. I just want to be sure I get the right ones!"

She grins at Gareth "Making up for lost time?"

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 69):

"Hell yeah."

In reply to Gareth (msg # 70):

Berry finally shows up...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 71):

Gareth has little to do in way of preparing. He has some gruel at the Guild, and crashes overnight, but is ready to go very early next day.

Haveron took some time for himself, and traded some metal for some drink during their wait. He also ensured to communicate with the merchants to ask them about the road and if they 'actively expect' trouble, or just are taking precautions. The man has not been that way in a long enough period to mean he's not quite aware about how bad the roads are.

Shroud has little in the way for preparing, after another meal and rest overnight he is ready to go.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 71):

Sorry I took so long. Berry says, before getting the contract to sign. She actually reads it carefully before signing it. Berry doesn't have anything to do to prepare really. She does relay what she learned from her mentor when she gets the chance. The story about the demon, the silver chains and such would be a very old binding, but the tower's description would put it as a younger tower.

In reply to Berry (msg # 75):

Gareth will take some time to ask Berry about where she went, as she mentioned heading to her mentor before she left. He asks about the mentor, and what he knew.

Having spent some time in a place frequented by his own people, He is ready to move on ... he arrives packed and ready to go well before he assigned time.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 77):
The next morming, The caravan forms.

Sorsha shows up with her cousin and supplies of food and water.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 78):

Gareth shows up with the other members of the guild, with all his worldly possessions.

Did Berry get to answer him?

In reply to Gareth (msg # 76):

OOC: Sry answer now

"Basically my mentor takes an interest in demons, and he's heard of a demon bound like that, but neither the location nor the time frame fit. So it sounds like detail from one story got mixed in with detail from another."

Berry shows up with Var in tow. If asked about him she says he'll do manual labor for food, although he'll probably show more effort if he's getting paid. She does appear to have some scratch marks on her hand. Like from a cat.
[Private to GM:
OOC: I assume? He was in Wastrel's hope. So tell me if I need a retcon. (Or just have the caravan master says there all full.)]

In reply to Berry (msg # 81):

"Awfully glad that does not match. Did you ask how to kill demons if we come across them? Oh, and where did that scratch mark come from on your hand?"

In reply to Gareth (msg # 82):

"I think you kill demons by blasting them or stabbing them. Oh, and I tried to pet a cat. It wasn't happy with me." Berry replies.

In reply to Berry (msg # 83):

"Maybe you should have blasted it. Do you need any first aid?"

She looks at Gareth "Like I said, we ran into demons and just killed them the normal way. I think the more powerful ones might have protections. I guess we will find out when we get there"

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 85):

"Finding out when we get ther is how to get into a real pickle, in my experience. Forewarned is fourarmed, and I like as many arms as possible!"

Let me Ssseee Ssscratchesss ssso they do not become red and painful; That could make you Ssssick!




[Private to GM: 11:01, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 11 using 3d6.  Minor Healing. Just made it. ]

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 87):

Berry's servant reviews the contract with a sharp eye and a wicked grin.
"Hmm, no actual description of how much work, just 'duties as assigned' they shall have to find me first. Done."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:51, Fri 10 Nov 2017.

"Well, from my readings, different powerful ones need different things, far too many to drag along if we don't have some idea which demon it is"

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 89):

"Ah, thanks Sorcha. That was what worried me.

Are we all here and ready to go now? Need to earn some cash to pay Sorcha back!"

Haveron patted Gareth on the back after having listened to his and Sorscha's talk of demons. "I reckon we are all ready to head out. It's good to be prepared for these things, so maybe before we head straight into the place where demons might roam we can scout the area and then make additional preparations if needs be.

Sorscha, I think your expertise would be vastly beneficial to our efforts"

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 91):

The caravan is forming, with pack mules and a few carts pulled by teams of mules. Everyone is walking. You can see the last bundles being packed on the mules orvon the carts. You note a few barrels, but perhaps not as many as you might expect. Provisions seem to make up three of the carts, although one is loaded with cookware as well.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 92):

Gareth will inspect the caravan, more to ascertain friend from foe for later, but he pretends to be interested in the goods, asking about them.

Shroud makes sure all his things are together and finds the rest of the group, he sticks close to them.

He places himself about ⅓ of the way back from the front, assuming most problems will occur in the front.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 95):

The Caravan heads south first, out the Merchant gate, although the destination is West.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 96):

Gareth positions himself near the middle of the convoy. He is confidant that the caravan knows where it is going better than he does now.

Berry will place herself near the middle of the caravan. She doesn't really bother inspecting it. She mostly hopes they brought enough food. She's gonna be annoyed if she needs to conjure up food for the caravan.

Sorsha will stay close to the front if only so she doesn't have to suck in all the dust the caravan stirs up. Plus she likes to know what is going on.

Gorgath had little to gather and had arrived early to the caravan.

The ogre walked near the front of the caravan to deter any would-be problems with the mythic Doomrazor being used as a makeshift walking stick.

He spotted the small form of Sorsha and gave the elf a nod.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:27, Sat 11 Nov 2017.

Haveron mostly meandered between front and back, just casually making conversation with people in the caravan, and the group they had formed.

He'd be very interested in what their aspirations are.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 101):

Gareth is puretty tight lipped about aspirations beyond making money.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 102):

Mischa gives a look at the built ins of the kitchen cart and admires some of the knives carried by Hamid and others.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 102):

Berry says "Money and arcane power! Adventuring seemed like it would take the least work."

The caravan makes its way out of the city gate, and turns west, following  the city wall for a time before entering the foothills.

Well, at least the view is nice... Haveron said as he strolled with heavy footfalls on the road. After making initial efforts to talk with people the man had retreated into his own thoughts and slowed his pace until he was slugging along in the rear.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 106):

Haveron gets a good idea about who is likely to be a straggler in need of eatching. He also notices that only about a third of the workers are wearing livery, and these include the headman, his master of arms, quartermaster, chief teamster, head cook, and some of tje laborers.

Sorsha will head up to the front so she can see where they are going.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 108):

Gareth will be enjoying the view.

[Private to GM: Actually, he will be looking out for anything familiar in the general surrounds of Northport, as well as watching carefully how individuals react to each other withing the caravan, noting those in livery and how they treat those not in livery, etc.]

In reply to Gareth (msg # 109):

Berry is also basically enjoying the view.

Sorsha keeps walking and looking around. She has to admit, its nice not to be underground.

He keeps to himself, which isn't hard as everyone leaves him plenty of room.

Shroud Keeps to himself while staying in the middle of the caravan, checking every now and then where his group is.

In reply to Shroud (msg # 113):

One of the assistant cooks seems to be looking at Shroud, and trying not to be seen doing so. He is also scrawny and a little unpleaseant looking.


Those wishing to gather intel on the caravan need to make Observation rolls, or per-5, with bonuses for extra time; you will have had 4 hours to watch interactions before the first stop for a break.

He watches things going on, but has trouble discerning human behavior and intentions





[Private to GM: 11:07, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 11 using 3d6.  Perception  -5.  Needed a 9]

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 115):

How long should we assume a normal observation roll would take? 5 minutes?

Under that assumption, 4x60=240 minutes would be 48x normal time, or +5 to Observation, or Per.

Not that it helps Gareth, who is so busy looking around he bumps into one of the wagons when is slows for a hill, much to the amusement of the others.

[Private to GM: Of course, Gareth rolled terribly, 1 over perception...]

(OOC observation rolls take an hours time, per try, until spotted.)

In reply to Chye Isuel (msg # 117):

[OOC: So +2 then. Failed by more than I thought! Thanks.]

Shroud tried to observe but constantly stops because he too notices the cook looking at him, if anything worth noticing happened, Shroud missed it.

The big ogre continues his forward gaze, oblivious to nearly everything else.

[Private to GM: 20:54, Yesterday: Shroud rolled 12 using 3d6.  observation Per-5+2 for time.]

Sorsha walks along, looking and taking her time but she doesn't see much.

[Private to GM: Today: Sorsha rolled 11 using 3d6.  observation  12-5 +2.]

Haveron noted those that semed to straggle and those that were wearing livery as he slumped along behind, caught a little in his own thoughts.


[Private to GM: 10:02, Today: Haveron Stormwal rolled 11 using 3d6.
perception/observation.  10:02, Today: Haveron Stormwal rolled 10 using 3d6.  perception/observation.  10:02, Today: Haveron Stormwal rolled 8 using 3d6.
 perception/observation.  10:01, Today: Haveron Stormwal rolled 16 using 3d6.  perception/observation.]

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 122):

Haveron does notice that a couple of the mon liveried types seem to know each other, but are acting like they don't, exchanging nods while not making eye contact. He is about to follow one, to see where he goes, and accidentally steps into a mule dropping.

Cursing, and shaking off his leg Haveron's attention was momentarily distracted with the cleaning of his boot "Bloody damn animals" he cursed emphatically. He'd never really felt comfortable in the presence of horses and despite his own father's demands had opted to stay on foot during all engagements they had shared. His siblings had similarly derided him for not having the proper grasp of horse-handling but ultimately were less stern and more forgiving in their treatment of him.


It took a few moments to regain his composure but afterwards he inched himself closer to Shroud and nudged him with a shoulder before pointing out the men who were hiding their alleigance. It seemed like an odd thing to hide from a caravan "See those? he offered quietly.

Shroud notice the people Haveron gestured towards. He then whispers back.

"Not really, too busy noticing the cook's assistant noticing me trying to notice things. Guess we are the outcast in this play. Assume those that did not come with us know each other. Now to find out why they are hiding that fact."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:14, Sat 25 Nov 2017.

The quartermaster calls a halt, sending a
Runner to the head and tail of the caravan, and the procession comes to an uneven halt.
The kitchen wagons start to set up,and the master at arms directs his few
liveried guards along with all of you to
Form a broad perimeter.

Haveron walked up to the carvan leader and asked "Something wrong? Have the scouts spotted something?

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 127):

Gareth also approaches the quartermaster, and upon hearing Haverons question awaits the answer.

Berry does go to the perimeter, but she does her best to be standing by, and a little behind one of the other guards.

Sorsha walks to a spot on the perimeter and finds a place to hide if she needs too. She watches the guards and away from camp in case there is something screwy going on. She doesn't trust most of these people.

Yisslitheniss moves to stand by the command group, where he assumes any wounded will be brought, he makes ready as best he can.

Shroud takes post on the perimeter, taking note of those near him.

In reply to Shroud (msg # 132):

"This is standard procedure. Food is brought to the guards at their picket, but cookfires are known to attract any who are hungry, likewise, any trying to follow in our path are likely to catch up with us as we pause for food and prayer. The caravan makes four stops per day, twice to cook and shorter stops for prayer, one reason why infidels are hired.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:30, Tue 28 Nov 2017.

In reply to Rakhis Shamir (msg # 133):

"I see. What is an infidel?"

One who doessss not kill othersss for not worssshipping Mohammed.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 135):

"The book teaches us to be tolerant of those with other faiths. Paradise may not be open to them, but our business is."

In reply to Rakhis Shamir (msg # 136):

"Bah, what is Paradise supposed to be anyway? And what is the alternative?"

Paradisssse issss open to all who support God'ssss wishesss, regardlesssss of which human defined religion they follow. A Good Christian issss preferable to a poor Musssslim in God's eyessss, he cares not  about human names, only deedssss.

This message was deleted by the player at 02:46, Tue 28 Nov 2017.

Sorsha rolls her eyes at the idea of peace, nice thought but not likely. "I am tolerant if my kind is tolerated, which I am not always. Tolerance only goes so far"

Haveron glanced around at each member of the conversation and the notion of paradise, deeds and what it meant to be an infidel or holy member of the world. He kept his thoughts quiet and cocked one side of his mouth in a half-grin at the debate.

Sometimes there was weight on a person's shoulders that wasn't always caused by hefting a sword.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 141):

"Heh, no one seems to be able to answer my question. Not sure paradise is all it is cracked up to be. Eternal fire sounds nice for me..."

In reply to Gareth (msg # 142):

"I am sure that awaits you."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:19, Fri 01 Dec 2017.

In reply to Rakhis Shamir (msg # 143):

"Glad to hear."

He returns to guard the perimeter.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 144):

"I can't say I would like a fire environment. I like a nice hot tub though" she says with a giggle.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 145):

"I will join you with the hot tub, but without the water! Never liked water..." he laughs.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 146):

After prayer, and then food is distributed to the workers, it is brought to the guards (y'all). Nourishing, and cooked with more spices than you are used to, it is a rice dish with a small amount of lamb meat, flavored with cinnamon, onion and mushroom, searved with fresh flatbread.

"Ok, this was good. Need more of this more often."
He says in between bites.

In reply to Shroud (msg # 148):

Shortly after, the break is halted, and the caravan is on the move again.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 147):

Not much meat... too much grain. Interessssting taessste though.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 150):

Gareth liked food hot, though he was not used to spicy hot. Nonetheless, he enjoys the new flavour and finishes it, before getting ready to move on.

Sorsha looks at Gareth "You heat up the water for me then." she smiles

"This is good. But I would also prefer more meat. I wonder if I could learn to cook this"

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 152):

"With pleasure."

He takes the water container and casts a quick spell and the water starts heating up. It gets hotter, and hotter, even after it has begun to boil...

[Private to GM: Rolled 9 under skill, Heat. Will continue heating it well past boiling if Sorcha lets him, but he will not want to hurt her, so he will stop when asked. If not asked, water will be boiled away!]

Haveron took his time eating the food, frowning and looking off to the horizon as he ate. It was very unusual and he wanted to take the right amount of time to figure out whether ornot he liked it. It didn't take long for him to have finished and ask with a grin "Is there any more of that?"

As they walked Haveron fell instep with Sorsha and jested "If you learn to cook that I reckon there'll be many more adventures with our merry band!

She looks at Gareth "Now if you can do that to a large body of water, I would love it. So next time in town, I will rent a tube to bath in." The thought thrills her.

She looks at Haveron "Yes, I will have to speak to cook and get some lessons"

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 155):

As the water continues to heat, now boiling furiously, Gareth answers.

"I guess I can. Not many like it that hit. Still better to bathe in fire, I reckon."

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 155):

Berry sits down to finish her food, but after she wanders away from her "post" over to her companions. I could try teaching you. Much, much easier than hovering over a kettle or something."
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:16, Sun 03 Dec 2017.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 156):

Well, I would not want you to bring the water to a boil, just warm it up. I like hot water, I don' plan on being soup" she says with a giggle.

She looks at Berry "Oh, that would be wonderful. I could teach you something. Do you have Water to wine?

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 158):

"I really only know fire magic, and a little smattering of other things. But I am always ready to exchange ideas. Oh, I also know a little in food spells, but I am looking for meta-magic spells to enable me to throw spells..."

In reply to Gareth (msg # 159):

The caravan is back on the move, and continues on until sunset. Aldubu Alshagir returns from his advance scouting to lead everyone to a campsite off the road that is by a stream and has plenty of fodder for the mules.

Does this appear to be a regularly used spot ... or used recently?





[Private to GM: 13:51, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 8 using 3d6.  Perception.]

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 161):

There are traces of ash under the turf being rolled back for fire; given the color of the grass in those areas, it may have been done a week ago.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 159):

"I have a few meta magic spells, we can later" she says with a smile.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 158):

Nope. That certainly sounds like a good spell to have though!

She grins at Berry "Watch how easy it is" she mutters a word and a goblet appears in her hand, that as she mutters another word, it is filled with water. Then she says something else and takes a sip of it. "Its an OK wine. What do you think Barry."
[Private to GM: She has skill of 15 in all the spells. So its a good wine I guess.][Private to Berry: It is good but not great wine.]


21:13, Today: Sorsha rolled 12 using 3d6.  water to wine.
21:12, Today: Sorsha rolled 10 using 3d6.  Create Water.
21:12, Today: Sorsha rolled 14 using 3d6.  Create Object large goblet.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 165):

"I would be glad to teach you how to heat things up if you could teach me to throw spells. Wine may be interesting, a little, but water is not!"

He looks at the cup with some interest...

Haveron's eyes lit up as he glanced at the wine manifesting from water "Would you mind if i tried it? As our friend Berry says, it is a fantastic skill to have!

Sorsha hands the goblet to Haveron "Sure, try it" she really liked this skill, it was a good party trick.

She looks at Gareth "It is a water to wine, not flame to wine"

(ooc- the wine is just good, not great)

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 168):

The wine is reasonably good. One or two of the nearby workers seem impressed by the conjuration, although one makes a warding gesture and moves away.

Tipping the cup against his lips the man tasted the wine Sorsha had conjured and then gave out a sound of satisfaction "Not bad, you're a woman of many talents it would appear! he said, patting her amiably on the back and purposely ignoring the man casting his own wards.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 168):

"Heh, I know. No spell is perfect, hey?"

He laughs.

The Adept shakes his head and steps away.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 172):
The weapons master approaches
"Who will be taking the first watch? I expect at least four to do so, and no drinking on duty."

I can ...

In reply to Hasim ab Quadeer (msg # 173):

Berry does her best to not get noticed.

I will. Shroud says as he approaches.

In reply to Shroud (msg # 176):

Noticing Berry is busy, Gareth volunteers.

"I can do a watch with you guys. Just need one more. Perhaps one of your guys, or Sorcha?"

She grins at Gareth "Yes, no spells is perfect. And I don't mind taking the first watch. Maybe my cousin can take the second one." she sips some wine and lets her cousin have some. She will let Berry have some if she wants it.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 178):

Berry will certainly take a sip of the wine. This way she can claim she's already been drinking and will have to let someone else take her shift tonight. Just in case.

In reply to Berry (msg # 179):

"Then let me turn in so I can take the second... with Haveron I suppose."

Haveron patted Mischa on the shoulder with a wide grin a the notion of them guarding together.
"Hopefully, we'll have no trouble, eh?

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 181):

"Between your blade and mine, we should fit any sort of enemy."

She sips more wine after Berry does. "OK, anyone else want any? We should prepare to settle down for the night or guard duty"

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 183):

"Work before play...perhaps later."

Haveron let out a laugh at Mischa's words "I think that if anyone steps within a half-score yard of our blades they're already done for", he said in good humour.

With that, Haveron set off around the camp, just getting a feel for the layout and expanse around them. More than anything, it made him feel like he was doing something rather than just standing around waiting for an attack that rarely ever happened.

Berry whispers to Sorsha, "Half a score yards? Let's just hope any attackers forgot to bring a flight spell and crossbows."

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 185):

"We oughta bring archers with us next time, boss. I spotted a few among the retainer, at least one will be on shift for each watch."

Haveron continued walking, and nodded in agreement with Amelia "You are right, of course. he said taking a contemplative moment before continuing.

Did you ever learn to use a bow Amelia? I can't recall, but perhaps it wouldn't be unwise to let you use mine for practice?

In reply to Berry (msg # 186):
Sorsha grins "Remember, flying bowmen make good targets, I have a spell for them.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 189):

"Any flying target makes for great target practice unless they are fast, which most humans are NOT. Wyverns now, they know how to fly..."

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 188):

"I can wield a sword or throw a knife, but I never spent any time on archery. Hey, Gareth, you don't have... a tendency to have, you know, strange 5hings happen around you, do you... or for that matter, any of the casters? It kinda would be good to know, and if, for instance, a couple of you do, it might not be the best idea to conjecture on improbable things, because around people who are like that, probability works funny, and unusual things become more likely to happen..."

"I am more of a swordwoman. But for flying critters I have a spell that will rain stones down over an area, hard to avoid" she says to Gareth and anyone else.

Raining stones you say? Now that i'd also like to see, but when we're finished with this shift, would you be grand and get me another tankard of wine? he said to Sorscha, while wiating for them to reply to Amelia's question.

In response to that however he did nod, concerned a little that she might jump into some swordplay should the situation come up; Haveron did not like that idea one bit.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 193):

"Weird things? You are asking a guy who spent 400 years in magical slugs pantry if weird shit happens to him?"

He just shakes his head.

"Now Gareth, Amelia is only interested in helping. We understand you may have had some traumatic life events, but everyone here is your friend he said gently, but firmly admonishing the tone he took with Amelia




I really like the party dynamic atm :) it's quite fun to see how it builds/develops

Sorsha laughs "I have to say, surviving for 400 years in a pantry is the weirdest thing I have seen and I have seen weird stuff"

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 195):

"Oh, I am over the trauma, but Sorcha got my meaning!
This message was last edited by the player at 03:41, Fri 15 Dec 2017.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 197):

The night watches pass fairly uneventfully.

Those on shift can make Observation rolls.

Sorsha watches but must be tired as she sees little that is not obvious.

Today: Sorsha rolled 15 using 3d6.  Per 12.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 199):

Gareth remains observant for his watch, staying close to the campfire and keeping it as large as he can.

[Private to GM: Perception or Observation? Obsrvation is

quote:

the talent of observing dangerous or “interesting” situations without letting others know that you are watching. Use this skill to monitor a location, a group of people, or your immediate surroundings for concealed or tactically significant details.

Rolled 3 under perception.]

Staying alert, he notices most anything within range of his senses.




[Private to GM:  20:21, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 9 using 3d6.  Perception. By 5]

In reply to Gareth (msg # 200):

Observation is the skill- per -5

The adept notices that some of the employees are marking the guards  locations...

He will pass this along to his fellow guards when they get off. He will of course not let the employees know this.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 203):

Gareth suggests randomly changing locations on every watch. Subtly, of course.

He nods ... at leasssst

It seems Berry has managed to slip watch duty! Success!

In reply to Berry (msg # 206):

Night is not over yet...

Shroud starts getting the hang of looking without looking.


23:21, Today: Shroud rolled 7 using 3d6.  Perception

Haveron took the guard duty without complaint, and spent most of the night wandering around trying to find things to do, that might help it.

13:53, Today: Amelia Montaigne rolled 9 using 3d6.  observation.  13:53, Today: Haveron Stormwal rolled 14 using 3d6.  observation.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 209):

"Boss, some of the cooking staff,not the liveried ones,seem to be doing a patrol of their own, like they are watching us."

Haveron looked at Amelia and leaned in close, and asked "What do you think it means? They might be looking for our patterns, i dare not say aloud where my mind takes me just yet

Sorsha walks over to Haveron "You have any idea what is going on?" she says quietly.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 212):

"Not a clue. Why?"

Frowning, the man replied in a quieter voice, just for those of his group in the immediate area "Amelia here has told me that we may be being watched by some of the caravan. I worry what that might mean... perhaps they're scouting for potential attackers, or learning our timings.

Either way I'm quite suspicious.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 214):

"Or they could be planning to take the Caravan. Never underestimate greed...which ones?"

In reply to Gareth (msg # 215):

Amelia points with her mouth toward the cooking cart some dozen yards away where the morning line is forming to pick up bowls of seasoned chickpe mash and flatbread.
"One of the assistant cooks there, and one of the packers... there may be more."

"No, as a race that is sneaky, who knows what they are up too.  So lets be careful and watchful."

"Maybe we should just ask them" he said, grinning.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 218):

"Well, I might be the best one to do that, since I have not noticed anything. That will cause them to be watching me especially closely..."

He seems to be making the suggestion seriously.

"...or we could burn them all and raise them as smokin' zombies. No, wait, who said that? No, no no..."

His voice trials off.

Haveron grinned at the dark humour, or was it? Sometimes it was hard to tell with the oddly acrid smelling man. "Best figure out what they're up to before putting them to the flame, eh? he offered, indicating he approved of the idea of direct approach.

It was true that skulking, and politicking and all those things that required subterfuge and sneakiness were beyond Haveron's circle of interest. Growing up, he had never quite understood why someone wouldn't just say what they mean and have done with it. If it was happening in this caravan, better to have it out in the open.

Sorsha rolls her eyes Gareth "Please, zombies can't cook but they are cheaper. I don't have any necro spells yet"

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 221):

"They also do not engage in any subterfuge either. But they are not much at conversation." Gareth laughs.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 222):

Var brings Berry a bowl of hummus and some flatbread.

"Let's  see. I have found a floating knucklebones game, two malicious gossips, and a pack handler who is overfond of mules. What else have we got?"

At breakfast he considers whom he may confide in... those on his shift last night seem to have told no one and he feels something should be said. He doesn't see much leadership among the guards.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 222):

"But they don't use rations and don't complain like we do" she says with a giggle.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 225):

"Oh, I agree. And they don't backstab either. Unless I tell them too..."

In reply to Gareth (msg # 226):
"Enough necroamantic chit chat. Are we telling Mubark, or are we waiting until we have more to tell?"

In reply to Amelia Montaigne (msg # 227):

"Do you really have any evidence? Seems more like a feeling or suspicion to me..."

In reply to Amelia Montaigne (msg # 227):

What do you tell?

"No, I think we can just continue to watch and see what happens. Lets keep a close eye on them"

In reply to Var (msg # 223):

Berry responds to Var as she takes the food, "You're not counting yourself as one of the malicious gossips right? Also Ew." As she's eating she wanders over to the other members of the group. "Uneventful night I assume?"

In response to Berry-

Perhapsssss not.

"It was quiet for me but who knows what others were up too.  I can't wait till we get this over"

ssssome of the ssssstaff were noting who wassss where.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 234):

"Then that is easy, we need to keep mixing it up" she says with a smile.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 234):

"That sounds like those are folks who are up to something. "

Yesssss it doesss

She whispers to the party "So, I got some illusion spells to make it look like we are one spot and can be someplace else."

But it answerssss no quesstionssss... why do they track usssss?

After listening to the group for a while, Shroud chimes in.

"Nothing will be gained by theorizing over a single nights worth of observation. The only thing we got right now is that they are on alert. We need to observe them more without changing anything."

Or perhapssss make a ssssmall change and sssee what they do?

"OK, so lets give it time and continue to watch"

He shrugs... nods and goes about his business with the Caravan Head... any Sssssick or injured ?

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 243):

No one was injured during the night.

During the day, you advance to the edge of a dairy farm, and the farmer brings out several barrels of half fermented and thickened milk, which appears to be a regular thing on this route.
 Murbark dickers with the farmer for a bit, and the barrels are loaded on.

Berry is always glad to see them picking up fresh food. Less work for her if something goes wrong right?

In reply to Berry (msg # 245):

Gareth looks at the milk with mild interest. It would have been some time, perhaps a few hundred years, since he has tasted it, so his curiosity gets the better of him and he asks to try some.

Called Yo-Gurt I hear.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 246):

Actually, there was some served on the rice last night.  It is pungent, and sour , but not unpleasant.

Thought it was 'Jo-gurt'?

Sorsha will go and try and talk to the farmer to see if he has anything else to sell.

In reply to Shroud (msg # 249):

The Adept just shrugs...

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 251):

Gareth finds it odd, and leaves it alone, ready to continue on.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 250):

Berry's servant approaches from the barn, adjusting his belt,and shakes his head at Sorsha."You might want to clear out before the Farmer sees the state of his milkmaid."

Isssss sssshe Harmed?

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 254):

"Or have you been busy, with her consent of course, making half goblins?" he jokes with a grin.

Sorsha looks at Var "Did someone here hurt her?"

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 256):

Var frowns "Of course there was consent.  I am no angel. She is merely in disarray."

In reply to Var (msg # 257):

"Sounds like someone here is a bit of a wombat. Guess it is time to leave then."

Wombat? what issss thissss?

Haveron laughed when Berry's friend returned and patted him on the shoulder as he passed.
"Wonder what that tastes like" he said as the barrels were loaded up.

In reply to Var (msg # 257):

Sssshould I attend her? Perhapsssss to prevent an unwanted child?

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 261):

"A wombat is a small creature that eats, roots and leaves, according to sages. Lets not jump to the conclusion that any child conceived is unwanted, though. The farmer and the milkmaid might like the extra pair of hands. Rather, lets be on our way, as suggested."

He shrugs  merely an offer...

The ogre stayed far from the congregation and had dinned alone, seeking peace and quiet instead of the constant noise the group seemed intent on making.

After a morning stretch, Gorgath moved at the front of the caravan until the column arrived at the farmers home. Once more Gorgath faded to the edge and munched on a ration.

Sorsha will sigh and walk away from the farm.

Likewise the adept moves the the caravan leaders group and prepares to move on.

Berry sighs at Var's antics. "See, Var always gets consent for that! Still, sounds like its time to go then. I still don't know how you manage it. Maybe..." Berry mumbles to her self a bit. She is quick to follow the group though. "I suppose if there is a child it will be healthy and strong. Var... umm..."

In reply to Berry (msg # 267):

"Perhaps more likely, an itch. Off we go."

In reply to Var (msg # 268):

"So maybe a cure disease would cure it?" she says with a grin

Or maybe Sssterilize...

The man grinned at the conversation as it progressed. This was the type of thing that he'd seen soldiers do to bond. They hadn't yet been confronted with anything particularly dangerous yet - just some scheming and rutting - but it was good that people could relax and at least initially bond.

Haveron was concerned about those that kept their distance however. People interested in knowing or being friendly with nobody often had an urgency for their life to end, in his experience. The man eyed the ogre and wondered what might be guiding it. In the end, he shrugged to himself and put it down.

"I dont suppose you'd be able to figure out what's going on with that other group, eh? he asked casually to Amelia.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 271):

"Not sure yet, but this farm is an easy landmark.  I wouldn't be surprised if something happened tomight. Let me go talk with Gorgath, he seems a little stressed around groups."

Amelia walks over to where the ogre is walking, looks up and smiles.
"Gorgath! How are you doing? There is a good chance thst there will be fighting tonight."

In reply to Amelia Montaigne (msg # 272):

"Then lets make sure I have a good campfire then! Are we staying here tonight, or moving on a little past the farm and grumpy farmer?"

She follows Amelia over to Gorgath and just looks at him.

Gorgath looked at Amelia, "No problem. I fight" then nodded towards his weapon, "We fight. We always fight."

Looking past Amelia, the ogre noticed Sorsha coming his way "Hello little one. Pretty lady tells me we fight tonight."

"Sounds like we should stick together at night then?"

She looks at Berry. "He is saying he can fight, I don't think he means an enemy is coming tonight"

Seeing the cluster around Gorgath, the Adept heads over to see what is going on.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 278):

Gareth starts to prepare enough wood for a bonfire!

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 277):

Amelia leans in,"I mean, if there is something planned, the landmark of the farm makes it likely that either our `friends` are going to meet with someone to plan an attack, or that one is likely to happen if they already did."

In reply to Amelia Montaigne (msg # 280):

"Did anyone new arrive here, other than the farmer? Or do we see any other groups or individuals hanging around?"

He looks around the entire caravan for a few minutes.

[Private to GM: Rolled 6, 8 under perception!]

In reply to Gareth (msg # 281):

The caravan is still in motion. Apparently they buy yoghurt at the farm but do not camp on the farmer's land.
No one new has shown up, but Gareth notes a few individuals looking off into the distance...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 282):

Berry will continue to follow along, but not do spend too much effort on being extra productive. Its what she does. She does gaze into the distance like some other people are. Maybe there is something interesting in the scenery?

In reply to Berry (msg # 283):

Var, having been roped into work, has been carrying water to the pack animals and has a sour expression on his face.

In reply to Var (msg # 284):

Gareth will take note of who is doing that, and will likewise keep an eye in the distance.

The Adept sees many now scanning the distance horizon, he looks about, estimating the current location as an ambush site.





[Private to GM:  12:51, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 12 using 3d6.  Survival (Desert).     By 3
12:51, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 11 using 3d6.  Area Knowledge (The Deserts).  By 2]

Sorsha will go ahead and scout. She will sneak forward off the side of the road to see if she can find an ambush.

Shroud continues his duties, making sure he keeps track of where his teammates are.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 286):

Sadly these are not the deserts of the far south or west, but somewhat hilly farmland. There are a few trees about, and noww that you are away from the farm, quite a bit of underbrush, but all og it is reasonably cleared back for three or four yards to either side of the road, which is an iter, with hex blocks of stone, greatly worn, and with moss and some grasses growing between the pavers.

The Adept becomes more alert, to anyone close he says Thissss isss a good place for ambusshh

He makes sure his sword is loose in it's scabbard.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 289):

Gareth will continue to be vigilant, moving from middle to front, before dropping to the rear, watching friends and potential foes as well as surroundings.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 290):

"I thought we were guarding the caravan, not ambushing it." Berry says in response to the Adept. She's new at this.

His mouth makes weird looking shape ... We are guarding, not ambusshhing it.

PM [Private to GM: Sorsha casts Body of Air and fly forward ahead to what is there.  Today: Secret Roll: Sorsha rolled 12 using 3d6.  Body of air. Skill 15]

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 294):

Sorsha disolves, and scans the course ahead. She sees little along the way, although she notes a dead tree about two miles north along the iter.

"iter"?

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 296):

An iter is a road built by the old empire to accommodate the movement of its legions, paved with hexogonal stones. They are run down, but for a millenia and a half they are holding up fairly well despite the empire being long gone.

Sorsha floats forward and scouts and if she doesn't see anything, will go back to the dead tree and look it over. If it looks safe, she will become solid in the tree and relax till the caravan catches up.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 298):

The tree is fairly  solid, although there is a hollow  on the side away from the road.

She will look in the hollow of the tree.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 300):

Worn smooth, the hollow has seen passage of many hands. There is nothing in it...yet.

She will slip out of the tree and will find a place to hide so she can watch the hollow to see if anyone puts something into it.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 302):

It will be some time before the main caravan arrives, but there are hiding laces about.

Berry complains about the walk "Ugh, how long does go on for. I need to master a flight spell or something. Or maybe teleportation. How hard could that be..."

In reply to Berry (msg # 304):

"Not as hard as carrying this load... ugh, I can't wait for the caravan to stop for the night. I barely had the chance to switch out a set of knucklebones for a weighted set."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 22:07, Fri 09 Feb 2018.

In reply to Var (msg # 305):

Gareth is just glad to be out of a bottle, and is observing the world around him with renewed interest.

And wondering what burns and does not. Those bushes for example...he mutters a few words and throws a fireball off to some nearby not-so-green bushes.

[Private to GM: Rolled 9 under to cast, 9 under to hit, 1 damage, Explosive fireball.]

In reply to Gareth (msg # 306):

One of the mules panics and starts bucking. The teamsters pursue and there is much ruckus, even as The caravan draws to a halt.


The fire burns gloriously for almost a minute, but the grasses near the bush do not catch, although there is a singed patch.

Observation rolls all...
+2 for Sorsha.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 307):

Gareth is fascinated by the fire, and barely even notices the distraction and he enjoys the burning blaze, even walking into it to clean himself after dropping whatever he has that can burn in a neat pile!

When he does turn around and sees the commotion, all he can say is

"Oops..."

[Private to GM: Nearly forgot, rolled 17 on perception...posted accordingly!]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:28, Fri 09 Feb 2018.

She sighs as she almost falls asleep.

[Private to GM: Today: Sorsha rolled 15 using 3d6.  per. even with the +2 I missed it by 1.]

The Adept openly looks around ...




[Private to GM: 19:44, Today: Adept Yisslitheniss rolled 12 using 3d6.  Perception (Skill 14).  He'd need a 9 or less to not be obvious about it. ]

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 310):

The lizard man notices one of the workers on the far side of the crowd head over toward the tree, and toss something in. Sorsha was distracted by the fire, mule chase and commotion.

Berry does her best to avoid being noticed during all this commotion. If she managed to see the lizard toss something into the tree she doesn't bring it up.

The Adept looks around for Haveron, as he seemed to be in charge. No doubt my movements would be noted.

Haveron shook his head as the procession slowly meandered towards its destination, he had been fairly silent recently but had noted the slow crumbling of any discipline. He sighed inwardly as he saw the mage idly throw a fireball into the adjacent field.

He glanced at tha lizard and then at the place where a man had thrown something into an old dead tree and was piqued. Of late Haveron had been considering the whole situation and the division within the group, coupled with Amelia's observations that the upcoming land would be ripe for an Ambush, the man had perhaps quietened to see if he could notice andbe ready for anything.

Casting a gaze to Amelia, he grinned and nodded towards the tree, indicating that she should investigate, and to her doing that he stepped closer to her, following and attempting to appear non-chalent. Though he would be close enough to intercept anyone attempting to prevent her retrieving the object. At this stage, the potential subterfuge and skulking of members of the party had been giving him a headache and he thought it best to force whatever hand maybe, plus the package proved too much of a curiosity for him to let it go.

Haveron glanced at the Lizardman and also nodded, a slight different nod with determined eyes, hoping that his meaning would be apparent be ready . Just in case.

Moving over by Haveron, he says You ssssaw?

Haveron nodded, Amelia is quite wonderful and has much better eyes than me he said, then grinned  as he glanced towards her.

"we'll see what's going on anwyay, be prepared

I am he says as he moves on...

The man grinned as the  huge lizard gave a terse reply and then moved back to the main part of the caravan. Maybe he alone was deterring any bandits from attacking, huge as he was, a full foot above Haveron who again was a head above most other men. With curiosity, he wondered how well the sword slung across the reptilian back could be put to use.

If indeed the worst did happen and an ambush occurred, the likely first move would be arrows. He glanced around the camp noticing the precious few people carrying anything that could be considered good protection from missiles. I suppose people will make for cover as best they can, but there has been precious little of that too of late he thought to himself, resigning to the fact that even if they did get attacked, the shield on his back might prevent him from getting hit from behind.

Haveron gave a wry grin and unslung his shield.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 318):

"Do we leave it, destroy it, or pursue the person who left it?"

"Lets see what it is first, and thne we can make the decision."



OOC:

I hope i didn't miss anything - i don't know what it is at the moment. If i've just missed it, please do let me know

"Have we considered the option of ignoring it?" Berry asks. "Maybe we're just being paranoid?"

In reply to Berry (msg # 321):

Gareth, finally finished with his fire, walks over to hear the tail end of the conversation.

"Ignoring what? Did I miss something?"

Sorsha will continue to hide and look around.

(ooc- does she notice some people looking at the tree?)

"Someone put something in a tree, and now everyone is being paranoid." Berry tells Gareth.

The man glanced at Berry We're just finding out what it is. Plenty of people acting suspcious around here - paranoia might not be such a terrible trait to have on this trip he said with a sober attitude.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 325):

"Oh, which tree? I have already been noticed, so I may as well continue as the decoy...worked well so far apparently!"

In reply to Gareth (msg # 326):

"The dead tree Sorsha was staking out. somebody tossed something in while everyone was looking at Gareth's dreadful attack on an innocent bush. Shall we try to retrieve it, and if so, do what with it?"

Haveron nodded "Yes, Amelia, will you go get it? he asked as he hefted the huge shield onto his arm an twisted his head to crack his neck loose.

"LEts find out what it is and then we can decide what's best. he said shifting closer to his companion. Then, glancing around to those in the immediate vicinity "Those suspicious folk may well take exception to our interest in their tree. Lets make sure they don't cause too much trouble. he said and then moved closer to Amelia.

He smiled a warm grin at her that suggested his protection, but in his eyes the truth was that he would die a thousand final breaths before any malefactor could move within ten paces of her.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 328):

"Do you want another distraction? I am good at them..."

Haveron considered a moment and then spoke "Save it for if they try and come at us... if they do... well, i'm sure you can use your imagination he said with a grim expression.

Sorsha will continue to look around, seeing people are looking at the tree a lot but wants to make sure what everyone else is doing.

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 331):

Amelia walks over to the tree, reaches into the hollow and withdraws something. She takes a meandering path back to camp and passes a small scroll to Haveron.
"Can anyone in our group read Valdassyan?"

Haveron looked at the scroll "I guess we'd need someone to translate this... Instructions, perhaps? he offered a quizzical glance to Amelia and those standing around him

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 333):

"How about the caravan leader?" he asks with a cheeky grin.

Haveron grinned in response and then shook his head with fake solemnity "That man probably has enough on his place right now, lets see if we can get it translated and then let people know as and when needed.

No need to cause undue distress he said while looking around to see if anyone was forthcoming with the language.

"Are there any in the group that can understand the language? Could be worth talking directly to them

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 335):

Sorsha's cousin shrugs. "Sorry. Just Elven and Shevnian."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 17:16, Fri 23 Feb 2018.

"Don't look at me. I never learned any other languages. Way too much work honestly." Berry says.

sorsha figures nothing is going to happen and slips out of the woods and over to the group. "So what did you all find?"

In reply to Sorsha (msg # 338):

"A scroll no one can read, except perhaps the Caravan master..."

In reply to Gareth (msg # 339):

"I would bet the Master at Arms might as well.."

"I unfortunately have no magic to translate it."

"WEll, let's go speak with the master at arms.. I'll see what he says and if he can translate it and then we can see what's going on" he said, then gesturing Amelia to come with him he headed off to the master at arms

[Private to GM: Hey

Haveron will quietly ask the Master at arms if he can translate the script.

If he asks what it is, Haveron will be frank about their supsicions. Amelia is there to catch him if his 'diplomacy' or whatever might be in action goes awry.]

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 342):

You make your way to where ab Quadeer is setting up his tent.
"What nonsense have you to bring me, master fire starter and friends?"

Haveron's face changed in an instant. From earnest concern to something that perhaps suited more the face of an actor on a stage representing the world's greatest rendition of offence. It was true though, genuine in fact, that Haveron was shocked at the berating from the master at arms.

In an instant his face changed to anger and his back straightened, chin dropped and shoulders retracted as he began "Now you see here, master at arms, I bring to you a question in good faith and with good intentions. Me and my men, including the fire starter, are here to ensure your protection and so I will be so bold as to suggest that you listen carefully to our words and requests for they are to the benefit of us all. he took a breath and felt the red-flush in his face.


[Private to GM: ok, i'm not sure exactly what the roll is here and he's no tlooking to start a fight but his noble upbringing has caused this issue whereby someone talking to him with such contempt (especially when he's trying to help) is so affronting that his instant response is anger.

Either way, whatever he said is perhaps appealing to the man's good sense?

]

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 344):

Gareth smiled and gave Haveron a pat on the shoulder.

"I have been called much worse. One of the men left this scroll in a tree, and we wanted to show it to you to translate it before I accidentally burn it. It may be relevant to our security."

Berry, despite her thought that it was silly followed along, just to see what would happen. "They're probably being paranoid, but they'll whine and be distracted until someone translates it."

She follows the men up to the master as she glances around. "Oh, you think the firestarter looks bad now, you should have seen him before" she jokes.

The adept takes the great sword from his back and places it point down on the ground, he takes a cloth from a pouch on his belt and wipes it down... the cloth obviously has oil on it, as the blade shines after it is wiped down.

In reply to Adept Yisslitheniss (msg # 348):

Eyeing the lizardman's devotions, Hasim turns back to Haveron.
"It is good practice to look after ones equipment, and avoid disarray, such as was created when master Firestarter frightened the mule. I am certain that any theives inadvertantly hired by Razak to tend the beasts made good use of the distraction. Now, sow me this thing found in a tree."

Haveron nodded at the man, not responding to any o fhis comments, and then handed over the piece of paper.

"What does it say?" he said, leaning in with genuine curiosity.

In reply to Haveron Stormwal (msg # 350):

The master of arms frowns. "This is a list of how many soldiers, we
Have, and counts the ogre and two sorcerers. These are our defenses!"

"Well then, master of the arms, it would appear that supsicions are correct and that the offending parties are plotting to ransack this caravan.

We should deal with them before there is an opportunity to coordinate their forces with, what I presume to be ambushers somewhere on the journey.

he cocked a grin at the notion.

"My dear, I fear you may need to stand back for a little while he said affectionately to Amelia. He then hoisted the shield and slammed it to the ground. "Behind this will be fine.

"Okay who attacks a caravan instead of doing something easy like signing up for a job guarding one? I could maybe understand if they absolutely no better choice, but you guys were hiring everyone! Heck you hired Var! Also they screwed up the count. There are at least three magic users."

Let it be a sssurprissse