After the emptiness of the Wastes, the walled town seems oppressive and cramped. There are people everywhere, and more leave their adobe houses to stand and stare at the new arrivals. Despite being well known the Duck is made fun of and the nomads whispered about behind hands and scarfs.

What ever work had been taking place in the outlying fields and town itself had stopped for the day, and the air was now filled with the smell of dung fires, evening meals and the unwashed bodies of nigh on a thousand souls.

Large cats of a type not known to the Praxians prowl the rooftops, and alleyways are filled with cages of fowl, singing birds and domesticated rabbits. The clack of looms come from darkened doorways and small children run this way and that.

Over the rooftops can be seen a tarnished golden dome of a Yelmalion Temple, behind which rises a multi-towered brick building, which must be the residence of the Chieftain and his household. From the same direction comes the sound of chanting and cymbals, suggesting another temple of some sort.

Despite the noise, the bark of someone issuing orders can be heard in the distance, the shouted words foreign and recognisably Lunar. There's also the stink of large amounts of Sable that wafts over everything, and there down one street can be seen a group of riders dismounting from their beasts. Part of the enemy garrison no doubt, at the end of a patrol, the open doors of their stables, dark and foreboding...

Henal spits down on the ground and says "Sables" rolling his eyes as they move past the street to the barracks. "Good to be inside for protecting our beasts, but it feels funny not being able to ride away when we need to. Just glad our friends can't see me on this zebra".

Smiling happily, or so it seems damn you, Beaky you want to lose me to keep your secrets then, Hoskar heads for the inn waved at by his mentor-in-Issaries; following a decently trodden road between squared buildings.

Seeing himself eyed up and down by a passing man with yellow jerkin and his plump wife - or at least one assumes she has such a relationship from the linking of arms and the giggles and the bared breast of an earth matron - Hoskar remarks It is such a relief to be back in a town. Bless your harvest on a whim as he reaches the door. Ducking [sic] under the lintel, he heads in and looks around; unsurprised that things fall silent as he heads for what looks like the bar. My greetings he says in passable Trade. Do you have rooms for a trader? Looking around briefly and seeing nothing beyond his means, he adds Drinks on me: gods bless being out of the dust of the east. He casually produces a golden Wheel from up his sleeve, placing it upon the bar. I imagine this might pay.

Angelika, once inside the walled town, is quickly escorted off by Deskor Darvenossson, whilst his men show where the Rangers can corral their beasts. She tells her escort that she'll send for them later and to find themselves somewhere to stay. It seems that Melock has been forgotten about...

"I'll cover your costs...And will ask for a Priestess for Ohanzee" Is the last thing she says.


"Your beasts will be safe here" says one of the Garhound men in passable Praxian. He and his fellow warriors  are watching the Rangers with wary, though not hostile eyes. The braves had come in with a vouched for Vingan Priestess, so must be trustworthy...Though they seem unsure about the dead man that the Rangers have with them.

"There's room for you in the Silent Partner Tavern, back a ways, owner has a room he rents out in a house out the back. Not much, but will do youse for your stay. Anyone you ask will show you the place. It's on the main road that leads to the gate."

He points to the weapons carried by the braves "No need for them, though nowt will be said about a personal blade. Just don't think you can use them and not be punished.

Aye and keep clear of the Antelope Lancers. Nothing more than they'd like than sending a bunch of youse to the salt mines.

That is our Lightbringer Temple, which it looks like you are in need of. The deadman with you looks to be Orlanthi, yes? There is a visiting Chalana Arroy Priest, so you are in luck..."

The Rangers find themselves in an open space, filled with corrals and nearby Shrines to Waha, Storm Bull and Eiritha. The totems, covered with recent offerings. Overlooking them is the high walled temple of the Lightbringers, it's sides brightly painted with scenes of the Gods and their myths.

As they take in their bearings noise from a nearby building leads them to believe it's a place of refreshment...Shouts, a crash of crockery and a rousing cheer. Several older men come out to piss against the town wall, staggering as they go.

Having started to leave, the Garhound warrior stops and looks at the building "That be Will's place. He serves food and grog."  Then he and his mates are gone, leaving the Rangers to themselves for now.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:47, Sat 18 Mar 2017.

Temush settles his ostrich in the corral and unstraps his pack of valuables. "I'll  see if the White Ladies are short of any of these herbs when we take Ohanzee to them " he says to himself, then he waits for Kobal to say who should do what.

At the appearance of such a large sum of money, everything goes quiet. Then grabbing both coin and the moment the slightly crosseyed proprietor takes Hoskar by the arm and sits him down at a rickety table.

Leaning in he whispers "I'd not be showing coin like that around if I were you. Been a hard few weeks for everyone, and winters ahead. You'll be safe here though as I presume you just came in with Goodfeather's mob."

Then louder he calls to another man who'd been watching from a doorway "Food and wine for the dusty traveller Hank, then go and clean out the guest room."

Back to Hoskar he adds "There's a storage room across the courtyard, I'll make sure you have all that you need, for your stay."

Turning to other customers "Travellers paid for your drinks. See that you leave him alone."

"I will first go to the Sun Temple with the child. She should not stay with us whilst we are in this town. It would be better if she was with her own people. Then I will go to the Lightbringer Temple."

Delenda unhooks her own possessions and takes Avalarn by the hand.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:29, Sun 19 Mar 2017.

There's the clatter of hooves outside, at the rear of the tavern, and the sounds of familiar voices. The Zebra riders who work for Goodfeather.

Melock watches Angelika head off with a conflicted look on his face. Unsure what to do he follows the others to the corral and settles Stinky next to Stomp, "Go see the healers now Temush, the quicker we bring Ohanzee back the better, if they want more than herbs and words come find me." Melock looks round what he can see of the settlement, "This place is almost as bad as Corflu, at least it doesn't smell of fish." He sighs, "I suppose I need to follow orders for once." Melock pats Temush's head as he walks past him and heads back the way they came.

The manor house where Angelika was heading is just behind the nearby Lightbringer temple. Heading that way Melock finds himself being tailed by half a dozen young kids who'd been watching the Rangers from the nearest houses.

He doesn't understand a word they're saying except for some of the choicest Praxian swear words that they seem to be practising on him.

Damn, I should have grabbed the puppets from my bags. Melock smiles at them and carries on walking. As he walks past the Light Bringers temple, he pauses to look at some of the paintings.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:53, Sun 19 Mar 2017.

Temush Snorts as Melock pats him on the head but says nothing, perhaps keen not to derail Melock's flush of responsibility. He is still looking to Kobal for a lead but now looks from close to _Ohanzee and Amara in the expectation of going with them to the Lightbringer Temple. As Amara claims to speak their language it seems likely she will be going that way. If she makes a move he will follow (unless he has first been told to go somewhere else).

Henal quickly makes his zebra secure and goes over to pray at the Waha shrine, before he looks to head into town.

Father Waha help us find a healer that can bring back Ohnanzee so we can complete our mission to being back the Green to the wastes.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:34, Sun 19 Mar 2017.

Amara waited to see if anyone wished to accompany her to the Lightbringers temple. She was impatient to be going. She left behind her sword and axe, but took her javelins, suspecting people might accept her more readily as a Vinga follower.

She moved at a swift pace to the temple, pausing only to allow Temush to catch up.

As he's trying to make sense of the images on the side of the Light Bringers temple, Melock goes to scratch his neck and brushes up against something furry, "How'd I forget I'm using them to keep my neck warm?" He shakes his head and turns to the kids, "Do you know anything other than swear words?" Whilst he's talking he has both hands behind his back, Melock quickly brings his right arm in front of him with a leaping bear puppet on it and makes a roaring noise and steps towards the kids.

Kobal watches Delenda head off with the girl.  He's got no interest going near another building of the sun worshippers.  Good riddance to the girl.  Hopefully she decides to stay here when we leave.



"Good idea," Kobal calls out after him.  "Angelika said she'd find a priestess for us.  Let us know once that's arranged."  To his manul cat his says out loud so that the other Rangers can hear, "Haaro, go with Melock.  Once the priestess is arranged, let me know."  Then telepathically, And keep any eye on Melock.



A drink would be good about now, after the day's ride, but Kobal's not in the mood at the moment, with Ohanzee on his mind.  He sets off after the impatient Amara - praying at the shrine to Waha will have to wait.  Catching up, he says, "Don't you think we should wait for Angelika to make the introduction?  That will improve the chances that the priestess will agree, and hopefully reduce the cost.  A few hours won't make much difference.  That would be better for Ohanzee."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:20, Mon 20 Mar 2017.

Great, now I'm a wetnurse to this Raven.  Still, the cat obeys and bounds off, then settles into a walking pace beside Melock.

In reply to GM (msg # 6):

Hoskar grins broadly. My thanks for both the room and the warning. Thought you might have space he observes. To be honest, I don't usually carry gold he lies pleasantly but I need friends in a hurry, or at least people who will talk to me. he lowers his voice a little if they don't drink the lot, or I don't sleep the lot away in your rooms, take a cut and anything spare find a friend who's in need and give them a leg up from Pavis Becx's agent.

His gaze scans the room, trying to size up who's there.

I'm expecting some friends along too. Think you might know the trade caravan in question. At the sound of approaching hooves, his smile gets still broader. That'll be them, I'm guessing - but right now there's two things I really need. One's a bath. I stink like a hoplite's crotch. Daresay a modestly fastidious Baboon would stay upwind of me right now. The other's to try and find a healer. Friend of mine came down with a bad case of dead lately.

Anyone able to point me in the right direction?
This message was last edited by the player at 08:44, Mon 20 Mar 2017.

The kids scream on mass, darting this way and that, though their initial panic changes to laughter once they realise they are puppets. Hands are clapped and grins widened as they clammer for a show. The noise brings several adults from the Lightbringer temple out to see what the commotion is too.



Sticky hands are soon petting the Manul cat, which to it's alarm spies several large and foreign looking cats assembling on the roof of the Temple to stare down at him.

Tails flick and hisses begin to arise...
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:33, Mon 20 Mar 2017.

"There's a steam room in the Sun Dome Temple...Or I hear that the Bartered Beast tavern has a copper bath. Best I can offer is jugs of water to wash with in our wash room out back. Take a little while to heat up, but can be ready when you want."

A healer...Well there's one visiting at the moment. He's moving from house to house offering the services of the Merciful Lady, but can be found at the Temple each evening. So you have a dead companion...Won't they be happier with the gods? Oft when they come back they ain't the same...Missing something....."

Whilst the Proprietor speaks, the Zebra riders troop in, dropping on to benches, ordering food and downing grog as fast as it can come. On seeing Hoskar they call over to him to come and sit at their table.

Amara, Temush, Kobal and Henal find Melock surrounded by children outside the blue walled Lightbringer Temple, it's sides painted with scenes of the Gods and their myths. Stylistic clouds billow across the walls, with Orlanth directing his companions on their many glorious deeds.

On the rooftop, large foreign cats stare down at the procedures, whilst several initiates of the Storm Cults watch from an opening that leads in to a courtyard behind.

They turn to watch the new arrivals with interest, especially as they carry their dead companion Ohanzee between them on a litter.

Amara greeted the children with a warm smile, the good humour showing in her eyes, indulging them, though she didn't really follow much of what they were saying. On arriving at the temple, Amara walked over to one of the initiates "Hello, I am Amara Brightsky. We've heard there's a whiterobe in the vicinity. As you can see we have extreme need of their services. Would it be possible for one of you to direct us to them?"

The men and women take a moment to take in the group, casting detection spells before nodding in agreement to her request. They're hurried on by the sudden appearance of Delanda who strides up to join the Rangers.

"This way. The Priest is partaking of his evening meal. You may wait in the cloisters..."

Escorted in, the braves set Ohanzee down in the shade of a corridor, one side of which is partially open to the temple's courtyard.

Haaro endures the hands of the human young with some feline squirms and a testy growl now and then.  Better that than cause a ruckus with the other cats.  The things I have to do...

Amara was happy to follow whoever could lead her to the healer and that Delendra had found a good place for Avalarn to remain in relative safety.

Still smiling, Hoskar winks. he might be happier dead at that, but if he doesn't come back this time our leader will bloody murder him.

Think my comrades might be finding the healer too, and I know I'll do better once I don't stink. Jugs of hot water will be fine: it's doing a favour for ungrateful Sun Domers that caused my friend to die, so I'll forego their hospitality.

In the meantime, I'll be over with these guys when it's heated. I assume there's enough change for drinks for them too.

In his element, or so it seems, Hoskar joins the Zebra riders.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:40, Tue 21 Mar 2017.

Melock smiles at how quickly the screams become laughter, though a brief look of worry darts across his face when the adults appear, but when they don't start trying to run him out of town the smile returns. "Is it ok for me to entertain the little ones, or would you all like to hear a tale or two from our travels? " Maybe I can entertain their chief and keep an eye on Angelika as well. "I wonder if your chief would like to hear our tales?" Melock nods to the other Rangers as they arrive, "though my friend's need is of greater urgency than my tales." He glances at the strange cats hissing at Haaro, "You might want to stay close to me Haaro and not wonder off."

Quicker than expected a man approaches garbed in the attire of a Priest of Chalana Arroy. His already golden skin shines with a magical hue and all present can feel the goodness of the man. Despite this his appearance is at odds with this as he has the build and face of a warrior.

"Greeting gentle persons. This is your fallen friend that you wish to return to that of the living?" He kneels to place a hand on Ohanzee's brow.

"This is something I can do, but first tell me why he of all people should have another chance?"

As he speaks a feeling of calm spreads out...
This message was last edited by the player at 14:38, Tue 21 Mar 2017.

The adults don't reply as they're distracted by the others appearing and Melock finds himself alone once more with the kids and a bunch of large and aggressive looking cats.

Hoskar sits down at he Zebra riders' table, just as his food and more arrives. There's drink a plenty, stories and a few songs, before his water is ready and the food is finished.

He's learned that Goodfeather is trying to negotiate a deal with supplying Garhound with it's needs but there's already someone who has recently put a successful tender in.

"A woman called Bexc or something like that" announces an already tipsy Zebra rider. The duck is staying at Geo's with Hommi.

Then sometime later, washed and and well fed Hoskar finds himself free to do what he wants. His room is larger than expected, a whole first floor of a small building at the rear of the inn. Below are the Zebra riders, a ladder going up to where there is ample room for the Condor brave and his fellow Rangers.

Amara stepped forward, unsure on how she should respond to the healer.  "This is Ohanzee Shappa. He has accomplished many great things, yet few anywhere would mark his name. You do not know us, white robe, yet we seek to restore the Garden. Something which would benefit many and may see an end to the strife between tribes. Ohanzee is part of this and we have already done many great things to benefit all. He has walked the walk and talked the talk. He died in trying to free me and one of my brother braves from captivity. I could sing songs as to why Ohanzee should be saved. He is the River Serpent as I am the Earth Queen and he is my year-husband. While I find him frustrating and annoying and having the self preservation instinct of one of the followers of the Desert Wind, his soul is a kind, warm and generous one. Without him, our spirit is weakened, with him, we can accomplish anything. We might yet not accomplish everything we seek to, we might fall in battle against chaos, but with Ohanzee our chances of succeeding and healing the Wastes improve." Amara bowed her head to the healer, her voice soft, reflecting her guilt over Ohanzee's death. "I ask that you restore him to us. You may ask for any price and I will see that you are paid. It is my fault that he lies here instead of sharing jokes and songs and warmth with us."

Amara tried not to let her anxiety show as she kneeled next to Ohanzee "I know he might be gone into the wind, laughing at us and what we're doing here. I know he might resent me and everything I am for trying to restore him, but we need him....I need him."

Temush's eyes threaten to pop out after Amara's unexpected declaration. Peevt bobs her head approvingly.

Amara's reply brings a genuine smile to the priest's scarred face.

"Well, it seems that he should be given the chance, for that was a most impassioned request.

Now two things before I start... I am under geas not to stay in the same building where I have healed, so we must go somewhere else, or I can not stay here in the temple. The next, is that I will accept no monetary compensation, but you must all swear to me that you will help the first follower of my goddess that asks, how ever small or great the task may be..."

Amara nodded "We can do this wherever you like. I agree to your terms and I'm sure the others will too." she said looking at the others pointedly. "Those who follow Chalana Arroy have always had a place of high regard in our tribes, we'd assist any who follow the Goddess in any case."

Henal smiles at Dukakis "the followers of the healing goddess are always respected in our tribes, so we can swear to that with no falsehood. Where can we go here for you to work your magic if not at this temple?"

Kobal bows to the priest.  "Our thanks for your help, Wise One.  As to second condition, I am willing to swear it, for Ohanzee Shappa is worth the oath.  However, I am concerned - what if the request of the first follower of Chalana Arroy is contrary to other oaths that we have sworn?  To help a Chaos beast?  For we Rangers are sworn against Chaos.  I would swear to help the first follower of the White Lady who asks, provided that it does not contravene my other oaths.  If it does, I will help that person in any other way I can.  Would that satisfy you?"  He looks both to the priest, and to Temush, the Sun Hawk in the group.

"Your previous oaths will always come first, warrior" answers the priest to Kobal.

"Where are you staying? We will see if we can bring your friend back there. I will send my initiates to prepare the room. Have you eaten? You all look famished."

"We could swear to swear to do all we can, that does not seem sure death or in breach of our oaths, to help the first that asks, and should that not meet their need, to do the same for the next, and so on until we have done all that was asked by one of you." Temush suggests.

"Your truth seer speaks with great wisdom."
This message was last updated by the player at 08:10, Wed 22 Mar 2017.

"I am happy with that," says Kobal, with a nod to Temush.  "I so swear by Waha, the Khan of Khans, and by Thunder Bird."

"As to your question about where we're staying, uh, we haven't arranged that yet.  Nor have we eaten yet.  Our first concern was our fallen comrade."  He looks at Dukakis, hoping that the priest will offer some hospitality.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:33, Wed 22 Mar 2017.

Several attendants hover nearby and scurry off at a look from their priest.

"Come eat with me...I suspect you will be staying at the Silent Partner being nomads. I shall send my people there to make preparations. Expect a crowd. They will assist, but they will want feeding...The cost of that will be yours.

And of course despite my not having a fee, donations to the temple are always welcome..."

The priest ushers the Rangers through to an ante room where once sat upon the floor, food is brought. Ohanzee is brought too.

In the background preparations can be heard to be taking place, as folk scurry this way and that and several times initiates of the other Storm pantheon gods approach, give salutations to the priest and observe the sitting braves.

"Quite the occasion" remarks Dukakis

"You travel with an ancient spirit. Tell me about him whilst you eat. He has much compassion for such a warlike soul..."

"Thank you again, Wise One."  Another bow.  "We will look after your people with the same generosity you have shown us."

Kobal smiles.  "And yes, we always intended to make offerings to the temple."



"Yes," says Kobal.  "We are the Wandering Rangers.  We follow Emesh-Ga, Copper Man, an Earth Captain of Tada, from the Green Age."  As he says this, he takes off his helmet and rests it in front of himself, before Dukakis Pelithor.  "It is to our Lord Captain that we have already sworn oaths, to destroy Chaos, but also to nurture the Earth and make it whole again.  So in a sense we strive to be healers too."  He smiles.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:10, Wed 22 Mar 2017.

Once their food is finished the Rangers are informed that their room has been sorted and that it is ready to receive the Priest, the deceased and the braves. Just over an hour has passed, and after a further fifteen minutes the Priest too is ready.

Outside it is dark and a small crowd has gathered, covered lamps and lit bullrush torches ready to light the way. Ohanzee's litter is lifted up on to Rangers' shoulders and off they go, with the Priest in the lead, followed by chanting initiates, who wave incense in the air and bang cymbals in time with the holy words.

The town is silent, an expectant hush falling as the procession makes it way up the street. Inhabitants of all the houses stand in the doorways, on flat roofs or along the side of the buildings. Each joining in the simple refrain, sending sacrifices of power to the goddess, willing success, and wondering who this special person was.

Curious looks pass over the Rangers, which after half the journey has been made, turn into gasps as Emesh-Ga begins to coalesce next to the litter. Towering over them all, his head level with those standing on single story rooftops, he adds his own deep bass to the song....
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:40, Thu 23 Mar 2017.

Not long after Hoskar finds several initiates of the Healing goddess inquiring about his room and once they know it is the place they begin preparing it for the arrival of Ohanzee's body. Blessings are made and clean linen placed on the floor. Then oil lamps lit so the room is bathed in light.

Downstairs the Zebra Riders stop their revelry and help with the arrival of scores of locals drawn by the coming ritual.

He smiles and shrugs at the kids, "Stories will have to wait till later." Melock looks at the big cats and then turns to Haaro, "Time to go look for Angelika, again. Have you been sent to help me or keep an eye on me?" He carries on walking towards the imposing building that he thinks Angelika went to.

The kids look crestfallen, but several continue to follow Melock as he heads to the multi story, adobe mish mash of a building which is the manor house of the Garhound chieftains.

There are several guards lolling around outside, who on spying Melock scramble to their feet, with hands on weapons. Moustaches are twirled and scornful looks garnered. But they quickly relax when Melock explains his business.

"We wus told that you'd likely turn up. You can go to the kitchens and grab something to eat 'here with Eric. He'll make sure you don't get up to mischief or get lost."

Eric is a burly type, in hardened leathers and with a bald head. He winks at Melock and ushers him inside.

Melock waves goodbye to the remaining kids, "I'll see you later," turning to guards, "Thank you for the offer, but I'd rather check on Angelika first, so if you could take me to her, then I can eat."

"Nah, she said you were to eat. She's with the Governor at the mo. No way youse is getting in there. She said she'd send for youse once she was finished..."

There's not much he can do, so Eric brings him through a side door into the kitchens where he's fed well on Impala and some fine Sartarite ale. It's just over an hour later that he's told that Angelika is waiting for him out front.

Leaving behind several smitten serving staff, Melock finds Angelika waiting for him.

"There you are" she smiles, "Kept out of mischief so far I see. Fed and watered I hope...Well now you can escort me to the Silent Partner. I hear they've found a priest who'll ry and bring back that scallywag friend of ours."

Angelika looks in good spirits, as if a weight has been lifted from her previously stressed shoulders.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:26, Fri 24 Mar 2017.

The house is reached, the place being surrounded by a crowd of nearly one hundred people, their presence vastly improving the chances of the upcoming event succeeding. Magic pulses and the spirit world is close...

Ohanzee is lifted up in to the first floor of the building and there he stays with just the Priest and his closest initiates.

Everyone else remains below, eyes looking upwards to watch the windows above.

A man introduces himself to the Rangers as the proprietor of the Silent Partner and landlord of their room

"I suggest that you purchase some herd beasts, if you do not have some spare of your own, as it will be expected that you feed the crowd..."

He says that he has a half dozen Impala that can do the trick and that one hundred lunars would cover them, other foods and drink for all.

Amara pointed the innkeeper towards Hoskar to negotiate the cost and pay for it, indicating with a nod of her head that she thought the price was reasonable, even although the idea of money was bizarre to her. She helped the healers tidy and clean the place, worried that somehow the place being untidy would prevent Ohanzee's return.

He bows when he approaches Angelika, "It depends on your definition of mischief, mistress." He grins cheekily as he remembers the serving staff, "How was your meeting, I hope it went well." Melock's eyes light up when he hears about the priest, "That is good news, we should head over there now." Presuming she'll follow him, Melock heads towards the Silent Partner, keeping a look out for any trouble as he goes.

Temush has a strongly held conviction that it is propitious to have a fresh egg on hand for such occasions and goes about trying to source one from the Silent Partner innkeeper or staff, the bigger (the egg) the better, but it has to be today's laying. If monetary payment is required he'll appeal to Hoskar, otherwise he'll barter something small from his supplies, salt, perhaps.

The deal goes down successfully...



Temush is startled when he finds out that there's a supply of Ostrich eggs right here in town. An Ostrich rider, old as the hills, and his magical ostriches. A boy is sent off and returns an hour later clutching an egg, in time for the end of the healing ritual. It seems that the Ostrich elder lives just outside of town with his wives and birds.

From the upstairs windows comes a brighter light, more than simple oil lamps could give, and it stays bright for a good ten minutes. A time when those outside clasp hands and increase the tempo of their chanting.


Angelika has arrived, escorted by Melock, and she joins the Rangers in their wait, standing to one side of the Emesh-Ga, who can see straight into where Ohanzee lies...

Smells of cooking Impala waft enticingly across the yard coinciding with the abrupt dousing of the bright light in the upstairs room.

Not soon afterwards an initiate of the healing goddess trots out and gives the nod.

A success.

Henal having chanted loudly through the rite though he watched Hoskar's dealings with the innkeeper, lets out a cheer at the Chalana Arroy initiate signalling success.

Amara smiled, wiping her eyes clear, hoping no-one would notice. Ohanzee had returned. She sat contented, the tension easing from her body. It was always risky, and Ohanzee might hate her forever for pulling him back from the winds, but he was needed.

She enjoyed the others celebrating around her, but couldn't eat anything. It'd take a while before she could manage to eat again. She was going to have words with Ohanzee for taking idiotic risks again.

Though he is eager for Ohanzee to return, Melock does his best to watch the crowd around Angelika for trouble and not get too involved with the chanting. When the initiate comes down and gives the nod, Melock joins Henal in cheering. He clambers on to a chair and shouts to the crowd, "To honour my friend coming back from the dead, until Bright Treasure rises tomorrow morning, all drinks are on me!"

Teumsh helps distribute food to the crowd, and drinks some of the strange beer in celebration of the positive indications from the Healer, but does not approach Ohanzee too closely since he was the one of the two last people that the raven saw before his death, and his oldest comrades are the best placed to welcome him back. He retires with his egg keeping it warm through the night and checking for any developments. If it still seems healthy in the morning he will ask Angelika if he can visit the old Ostrich tribesman to return it. If it hatches first, he will take it to Pavis and try to look after it himself, as he will then view it as having shown an interest in Ohanzee.

Haaro regards the bison brave with the inscrutable and haughty look that all cats have, then continues pacing foward.



The manul cat stands just a bit taller, accepting the compliment for the Raven not having gotten into trouble.

We have to feed the whole crowd?!  Kobal is still grateful for the priest for agreeing to help, but he hadn't expected this.  I thought when he said we have to feed the followers, he meant a few of close initiates, not everyone who followed the procession...

Still, he lets Hoskar negotiate with the barkeep.



With a whoop and a clap, Kobal makes his way to the room where Ohanzee was raised, if the initiate will let him.

Melock's spontaneous offer of drinks will eventually add another fifty lunars to the negotiated price for the feast, but it wins many friends in town.


Escorted upstairs the Rangers find Ohanzee lying on a mattress, naked and looking rather confused. Most noticeable of all is the fact that his skin is no longer horribly burnt.

"Your friends are here, rest Ohanzee Shappa. The Goddess has been kind to you. Remember this. You will be weak for a while and will find that you must relearn some of what you knew before. It is the price of death I am afraid."

The Priest pats the brave on the shoulder, before turning to the others.

"Keep him out of trouble. Now I am starving and could murder a drink..."

At the last comment he winks and then climbs down the ladder laughing loudly at his joke.

Kobal bows once more to the priest.  "Our thanks, Wise One.  I will make donation to the temple, as I promised."

Then he goes to the side of Ohanzee, raises the braves head and gives him a friendly but firm headbutt.

"It's good to have you back.  (Hopefully you won't make us regret it later, haha.)  You're a Raven but rememeber that you can't fly, haha.  Know that we Rangers swore to the priest that would we would help the next Chalana Arroy we come across."

"It's good..." he starts but trails off. "I'm back. Why?"

"Why?  Because you have not fulfilled your oaths to Emesh-Ga.  Besides, Melock missed you."  He gives a gap-toothed smile.

Melock raises an eyebrow when he hears this, "Did you? I must have missed that." He looks over the bed ridden Raven, "You look like week old bison milk that's been left out in Fire season." he sniffs, " and you don't smell much better. Does someone want to find him some clothes?"



He shakes his head, "Only as someone to blame."

Well at least me and Temush managed to finish off the Yellow Beard creature in that tower so Melock and Amara are back with us too. Henal says, continuing "besides we realised only having 1 raven to blame wouldn't be enough, so we had to bring you back". He grins.

Ohanzee looks at Kobal but does not return the smile instead he lays back again staring at the ceiling above as he lets out a sigh "Oh." He breaths heavily again "More to do and then peace, then release."

He doesn't really seem to be listening to the banter from the others.

Temush sidles between the full-size Rangers until he catches Amara's eye. He looks very deliberately from her to Ohanzee and back, then, fists on hips he tilts his head towards her regarding her from under raised brows.

Amara glared right back at Temush. "Ohanzee, if anyone is to blame for your being here it is me. I persuaded the healer to bring you back. If you are to die, it should be after we have restored the green.....and not due to something silly like falling." Amara's watched Ohanzee "Take it out on me. Not the others, they don't deserve it."

Temush rolls his head and eyes briefly, and folds his hands behind his back. He is still looking at Amara...

Ohanzee doesn't look over, instead staring at the ceiling still "Take it out?" he responds "No."

One of the initiates comes forward

"It is common for those returning's personality to change. We call it relife sickness. Perhaps it would be best to let him rest. We shall attend to him and see that he is comfortable.

He could be lucky and return to normal in a few days, or....."

She leaves the rest of the sentence unfinished.

Outside the feast has started in earnest. Blankets and simple rugs have been placed on the ground and the food keeps coming as does the cheap local ale. Songs are sung and soon the locals, having forgotten any of their usual reservations about nomads, begin to ask for their hosts to come and sit with them.

Angelika is sat amongst a group of Orlanthi, warriors from the chieftain's household and his son Deskor. They are deep in discussion, the severity of which is countered by the occasional burst of laughter.

As for Emesh-Ga, the spirit dissipates though not before checking on Ohanzee, where he places a hand upon his ward's forehead, tuts twice and then leaves.

Walking amongst everyone are the large foreign cats, tails twitching.

Melock looks crestfallen when Ohanzee doesn't rise to his comments, but when he takes a few moments to remember how he felt when he came back he cheers up slightly. He nods at the healers words, "I think Ohanzee needs less crowding," he looks round at the other Rangers, "I'll be outside, if anyone needs me." Melock heads outside and grabs a jug of ale and finds a dark spot where he can watch Angelika and the rest of the festivities and hopefully be left alone with his thoughts.

Kobal is about to respond to Ohanzee's listlessness, when the initiate steps forward.

"Thank you for your help."  And more quietly to her, "Anything you can do to restore his spirit would be appreciated.  We need to move on and I doubt we can stay here a few days."

Downstairs again, Kobal sits and drinks some ale.  Not as good as kumiss, but they're paying for it, so he might as well drink it.  But he doesn't enjoy himself as much as he would in other circumstances.  Firstly, they're among foreigners.  Secondly, his joy at Ohanzee's return is countered by the brave's indifference to be back.  Thirdly, they still have a duty as escort to Angelika, and he was charged with responsibility for the behaviour of the Wandering Rangers.



He'd like to sit near that important party, and listen to what they're discussing, but figures it's best not to, unless invited.

Haaro, don't get into any fights.  If you hear anything of what Angelika and the chieftain's men are discussing, let me know.  I've been hanging around Melock and Ohanzee too long, haha.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:18, Mon 27 Mar 2017.

Tired from negotiations, Hoskar smiles happily at his comrade's returning; quietly watching, not crowding. Drinking in the sight of a Ranger's Return, he awaits a quiet moment before murmuring something to Ohanzee Condor said something to me when I was brought back. "Work and warring till the world's renewing". Welcome back to the work. Rest up. I'll keep what watch I can. and toddling away to let the brave rest in his returned condition.

Melock heads away from the crowd and in to the darkness.

Amara wandered around the town. Angelika seemed at home, but something about the place felt off to her. She couldn't really relax in this place. She'd learned something of the Orlanthi ways from Angelika, but it still felt odd and difficult to understand. More to the point, having Ohanzee return wasn't as joyous as it should have been. She hoped he'd recover in time....or well, at least react in some manner. He just seemed listless, without that inner spirit he had before.

Amara wandered the time, not really feeling a part of anything and somewhat shut out from the celebrations. She greeted everyone that passed with a smile, but she was lost in her own thoughts.

Henal drinks the ale and waits for the food to be ready, he looks about noticing Melock sidling off into the shadows and looks pensive.

As he drinks, Kobal thinks about others in their group who've returned from the Happy Hunting Grounds.  Maybe they can help Ohanzee.  Hoskar.  Melock.  He looks around.  It can wait til later.

Haaro, he thinks silently to his familiar, see where Melock's gone.  But if gets too dangerous for you, let me know.  These other cats don't look too friendly.

Haaro returning from the darkness, moves through the party and jumps into Angelika's lap, from which he gives a regular update

"Blah, blah, blah. Pavis. Talking about safety there, where is okay to stay. Worship of Orlanth banned. Have to pass a message to a trustworthy Priest. Blah, blah, blah.  Some Lunars arrived yesterday. Two men shrouded in dark robes. Staying at the garrison."

Haaro sighs, gets out of Angelika's lap and heads off into the darkness again. The party continues as before. Several young ladies wave at Henal and Kobal, though not Temush.

Amara finds herself outside one of the town's inns. A sign of a Sable has been painted on it's wall. A wall which is currently supporting the hands of a half dozen men as they piss against it. They reek of booze and Sable. Not Praxians, but by the looks of it Lunar Sable riders.

So far they haven't noticed the brave in the darkness, all of their attention on the job at hand.

Young women.  Friendly young women.  But after a moment's temptation and hesitation, Kobal just politely smiles back.  He married Halfrid just before they left on this journey.  He remembers his anxiety what would happen when the Red Thorns discovered Jella had been killed.  No need to tempt the fates twice.

After a while Ohanzee pushes himself up onto his elbows again and asks "I travelled with a Raven. I do not feel it any more so I know he is gone, but there was a rhino too, a special one."

"Do you know, is he gone too or did he come with the others to this place?"

The priest had returned and was sitting with his back to the wall of the room, the rest of the initiates and Rangers having left.

"Your friends came in with all their beasts. I heard word that a mighty rhino walked amongst them. Could that be your one?"

Ohanzee smiles for the first time since return, although it fades again after a moment. "He is. Hide of rock. A gift from Great Rhino."

"Well, how about getting off your ass and seeing how it is then? No point moping around. From what your friends say it seems there's lots to do and you need to be part of it."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:55, Tue 28 Mar 2017.

Amara didn't feel especially threatened by a mere bunch of sable riders, but she was aware she had to be on her best behaviour. Deciding discretion was the better part of valour, she turned around and started to head back the way she came.

Ohanzee looks at the priest with some surprise showing on his face before it fades as he asks "You don't look like a healer, well not like one of the White Lady's followers. Were you once a warrior returned to life after your own death?"

He rises and gathers up the leathers that were fetched for him donning them "I must serve her too, though as you say I have other commitments. I shall serve her on her holy days and on the week that will be the anniversary of this time."

"I shall heal and bring peace to folk where I can at those times and the rest of my time I will do what I can to heal the land. For as long as my time lasts."

"Melock needs help. He's on a building over here."

Kobal can sense where his cat roughly is across the open space where the party takes place. One of the many single story terraced houses. As he looks he can see movement. Someone looking over the low parapet and the glint of metal.

Towards Angelika...

Henal slips away after Melock when he thinks that he will not be overseen following the Raven brave.

Henal arrives at the base of a ladder, leaning against a single story terrace of houses. At it's base is Haaro, who is looking up at Melock, who is grappling with a shadowy figure.

There's a meaty thud as the Raven brave mets out a Bison Kiss and then a short cry, followed by another meaty thud as his assailant lands at Henal's feet with a groan.

From above comes another shout of pain, this time from Melock as he gets hit by a crossbow bolt in the gut. Legs useless he drops out of sight on the roof.

From where Melock lies, he sees the other figure lean back on the parapet and take aim at someone in the throng below.

Henal sees the end of a cross bow jut out over the roof, aiming in the direction of the party.

Amara finds herself drawn back towards the party, though she can avoid it if she so wishes...

The priest is about to answer when his body goes rigid as if sensing something.

"Assassin"

The word comes out in a long drawn out hiss.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:15, Wed 29 Mar 2017.

Kobal looks across at Angelika and her party.  Too far away for him to do anything immediate.  Nor does he have his shield to cover the line of sight.  Still, he springs up and towards the priestess.  "Assassin!" he shouts.

There's a moments quiet as everyone computes what Kobal just shouted, then pandemonium reigns as everyone scatters.

A bolt, quickly followed by three more, zings across the streets and open space, the first hitting a running woman in the back, the second, one of Deskor's men, and the remaining hitting shields quickly raised in a protective wall about Angelika and the Chieftain's son.

With the Healer Priest

Staying low Ohanzee moves to get a view out of the window and even as he does so wonders why he is worried, after all who would come to kill him!

Henal tries casting a spell of confusion on the crossbow user before starting to climb up the ladder.

"Cats, get the other familars to tell their people where to come".

Clutching his stomach, Melock curse loudly because the second guy managed to fire his crossbow  He casts another disrupting charm at the crossbow, hoping to stop any more bolts flying.

Temush casts a light spell, it's increased strength punching through the target's magical protection, unlike Henal's weaker charm. The assassin shrugs out of her now glowing cloak and vaults over onto the next building with Henal in hot pursuit, her unloaded crossbow falling to the ground below.

With a jerk Melock pulls the bolt out of his side and begins to heal the wound, the small charm enabling him to stand and follow the assassin too.

Several moments later Amara hearing the disturbance sees a figure leap impossibly far, right across the street she is in and onto the  flat roof of another building.

Back at the party Hoskar and Kobal sees that the woman hit by a bolt is writhing in pain, whilst the warrior is dead. Angelika is fine and well protected, though she sees Kobal and gives him the nod

"Get them!"

Kobal and Temush see a figure pick themselves up from near the ladder and sprint off in another direction...The one that landed at Henal's feet was escaping too.

After hearing the commotion, Amara figured the figure moving about had nefarious purpose and immediately set the chase, using her charm to move more quickly, and calling on her connection to Vinga to help her catch up with the foe.

Seeing that Angelika was well protected, Kobal would've gone searching for the attacker even if she hadn't given the command.

He runs off towards the figure he'd seen, sword in hand.  Haaro, follow that person, but take no risks.  I'll try to catch up!

Henal sees the assassin he is chasing make a massive jump across a street no normal person could leap, hinting at magic not known to most.

Below him there's a flash of magic as Amara takes over, her own charm giving her the necessary speed to get up on to the roof on the other side of the road.

Once there she can see the Assassin make another massive leap, landing on the roof of a stand alone building in the dim distance.

The Assassin flees with magical speed, though Kobal spies the way that he or she has gone, past the Sun Dome Temple and into the darkness beyond.

Once on the roof, Amara realised she would have a long way to catch up with the assassin. She used her charm to make her javelin travel far as she chased them. Her lungs burned trying to keep up with the assailant, so she threw the javelin after them, to see it land in the figure trying to depart the area.

Without a sound the figure drops out of sight, illuminated by the building's central courtyard lights.

Amara ran after the figure, knowing she'd hit it in. Hoping that she'd catch up with it and figure out who wanted her adoptive mother dead.

Knowing that he can't catch up with the fleet assassin, Kobal runs after them anyway.  Hopefully Haaro will be able to keep up with the attacker and lead the way.

Pausing briefly to try some healing on the woman who had been hit by the crossbow might as well do something for our image, and to cast his charm to seek out enemies in case of further hidden assassins  Hoskar assumes Angelika to have given a general order and races after Kobal as long as there are no immediate foes present to threaten the Snowspear.

Temush follows Kobal. He has just one boomerang and his club, he tries to move quietly and to watch out for ambushes doubting that he can keep up with Kobal anyway. "I hate to ask Peevt, but we need you to tell us where these thugs go. Try not to get shot, stay high."

When he see's how fast the second assassin runs away, Melock decides not to give chase. He looks around and see's Kobal, Temush and Hoskar presumably running after the other one, Melock realises that there's no way for him to catch anyone, so he descends the ladder and looks round to see if the one he chucked off of the roof dropped anything that might tell them who they are.

Melock finds something in the dirt, made from bronze. Four connected heavy rings, which looks like it would slip over his fingers.

Kobal, Temush and a little way behind them Hoskar, run up to the Yelmalion Sun Dome Temple and slap bang into a Lunar patrol on foot. These are Sable Riders from the Empire, part of the town's garrison.

"What's going on?" says one, presumably the squad leader, in passable Praxian.

Amara must descend once more, and is quickly joined by Henal. The two of them find themselves before a darkened single story building, it's doors locked and barred. The windows too are barred and from inside comes no noise.

As his bone sword was cut in half during the roof top fight, Melock slips the knuckle dusters on and heads back to Angelika, "Are you alright Mistress?" As he talks, Melock scans the roof tops in case one of them has double backed to have another go. His eyes fix briefly on the Sun Dome temple and where the others ran down the side of it, then they travel along the buildings to its left and stop at the next road, "If I was running from a group of people," he thinks out loud, "who hadn't seen my face, I might just double back and watch them." He casts another healing charm on his gut and heads where he was looking, keeping to the shadows.

Henal keeps his bronze sword readied and looks around the building to see where they can get in, if there is any way to climb up the outside of its walls.

"Wonder whose place this is that they block it up like this? Maybe we can climb up the walls to get in".

Amara looked around for signs of her javelin and the blood she was sure she'd managed to spill. She glanced at Henal "I'm sure I managed to get one."

Temush changes pace sprinting to reach Kobal as fast as possible. "We can't help here now chief." he says "we should get back. I'll tell you why when we're there" He pulls down his lower eyelid with one finger as he speaks.

"A thief," says Kobal, stopping, taking the opportunity to catch his breath.  I hope Haaro's still able to track them.  "They ran this way," he motions the direction, "but now we've lost them.  Did anyone come this way?"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:45, Wed 29 Mar 2017.

Pelting to try and catch up, arms pumping as he runs, Hoskar has time to check his pace as those ahead run into the watch. Reflexively - old habits die hard - his mouth tightens a moment and his hand drops from side downwards as if to draw a weapon, but he catches himself midway allowing the movement to flow onwards to leave his hands by his sides.

Puffing slightly, he asks hurriedly apprehended the miscreant?

Oh.

Good evening. Spot of bother. Guess he eluded us.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:01, Thu 30 Mar 2017.

As they search for a way in, both braves spy movement from a nearby building. It sits all by itself on what looks like recently cleared land. Several figures have appeared carrying torches, and are moving towards the two nomads...

Now illuminated by the torches the building looks like a temple. Foreign and for a brief moment they spy the Red Moon motif on it's wall.

"Nope. No one came this way. You are mistaken."

There is a finality in the man's voice that brooks no argument.

Late to the Party

Now dressed Ohanzee descends to the lower level to see if there is anyone he can assist.

But as he does so he realises that he is likely not recognisable now since his blue arm is covered and his head to toe scaring gone, he must look nothing like the brave who was carried in. An ideal opportunity to go unnoticed! he ponders so instead of announcing himself he tries to slip out whilst the attention is all elsewhere.

Besides, don't feel much like crowds

Henal looks at the red moon and spits on the ground. "It would be wouldn't it. Better leg it if we can".

"Leg it? We have nothing to hide from these people." Amara looked at Henal with a "are you mad?" expression. "Besides I'm in with the red moon people after Corflu." Amara blinked and gave a frustrated noise "If they're behind this then they'll not want us to find the body of the assassin. So we can ask a question or two and figure out a lot of what's going on by their answers."

Hoskar's shoulders slump dejectedly gods know if that's true, but I don't fancy fighting the entire garrison.

Bother. Gave us the slip, it seems. At least we know where he's not. Maybe we should just head back?

Arriving from the direction of the Lunar Temple are three concerned looking guards. Lunar guards.

One of them, slim in build and with a nasty glint in his eye, says in bad Sartarite "What you do?"

Ohanzee finds the panic has abated somewhat, with the injured and the dead being attended to by the already present healers. Angelika stands with the Garhound warriors, sending a concerned look after Kobal and the others, not seeing Ohanzee who is standing in the shadows.

He makes out Melock picking up something from the ground nearby. For the most part the locals stand in groups talking in excited tones about what has just occurred.

Amara responded in better, but not tremendous Sartarite "We are looking for assassin. They came this way. I hit with javelin."

While the Watch watch the big chaps Temush tries to slip quietly back into the night

Melock heads down the road parallel to where the second assassin went. When he finds a turning to the right he follows it, staying in the shadows and using his better than average night vision to see if anyone is lurking near by.

Seeing Melock sneak away Ohanzee follows suit, or rather follows the Raven, from a distance and looking out for any others keeping an eye out for himself or Melock.

By the Yelmalian Temple

"My thanks," says Kobal, with no genuine gratitude in the tone.

He sheathes his sword and turns around, saying to Hoskar.  "We should head back and see where we lost the trail."

The three guards shake their heads and make shooing motions with their hands. Holding a torch up to the building that the braves were investigating, the light illuminates a Lunar moon painted above it's door...

Another Lunar building.

Several local warriors have also arrived, they nod at the Lunars and say to the Rangers "Best leave it. If the killer got in there, there's no way we're getting to them. Just how it is these days."

Kobal, Temush and Hoskar arrive back where the party had been held. Servants are collecting the eating utensils, and remaining food, whilst the injured woman and dead man are carried off to the temple.

Spotting them Angelika approaches "Well?"

Both braves can see that the Lunar barracks is busy, well lit and guarded. It seems that something has stirred the nest.

Of the assassin nothing can be seen, nor of anyone trailing the two Ravens.

"Peevt  saw the one that Kobal chased run into a hut full of Sables at the back of their part of town. The Sable guard who stopped us, lied to us when he said they had seen no one go that way. I  think you are not safe here." Temush says, before looking around to see if his familiar has returned.

"It's good to see you're safe, Wise One.  There was more than one attacker.  Temush, Hoskar and I chased one.  I know Henal must have seen another, as he sent warning, and I haven't seen Henal.  But the one we were chasing used magic to outdistance us.  As Temush has said, we were turned back by a troop of cursed Sable riders.  However, my familiar might have been able to get further."

Kobal stands still a moment and communicates telepathically to his cat.  Haaro, any news to report?
This message was last edited by the player at 07:37, Fri 31 Mar 2017.

"Many people. Many sables. The one you seek is there somewhere."

Temush's familiar lands on his head

"As Haaro says."

"Henal is with Amara. They have found the building where he assassin fell. It is Lunar and guarded."

Satisfied that they are not noticed Ohanzee moves up to Melock and speaks quietly "What now?" the slightest tingle of feeling in his belly, a spark of excitement trying to ignite his feelings.

"They go in there then, the assassin?"

"Scratch a mark on a bit of paper and you get to go in too." he adds.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 13:54, Fri 31 Mar 2017.

Melock is pleasantly surprised to see Ohanzee up and about, "More than likely," He finishes healing his guts, "Do you really think they'll welcome us in there? If so are you up for walking in and seeing what's what?"

Henal looks annoyed and replies to the locals "Ok, no need to make trouble with this lot then. Maybe we'd better find the rest of our people".

Amara nodded agreeing with Henal "It's grand. I just wanted my javelin back." Amara headed back to the others with Henal.

I'm uneasy too Hoskar adds. Think the quicker we're on our way the better. Something's not quite right. Found out Goodfeathers was after a trade franchise here but my mum's got in before him. And I'd put it about in the bar that I'm connected to Becx. And not a one of the locals tried to touch me for an advantage.

That's unusual. Uncomfortable. Odd, even.

He shrugs.

We're here to follow and serve, but that's what I've found.

"You are a Praxian" says one of the local warriors standing with his master Deskor. "Nothing unusual."

Ohanzee shakes his head in the shadows "Nope. They're foreigners but they're not dumb. If we were staying a while it might work, but not right now. Shouldn't think we'll stay here, certainly after what happened."

He looks at Melock "What happened, who was he or she trying to kill?"

"I think we're leaving tomorrow, so as long as they don't follow us, we'll be ok." While he's talking, Melock keeps watching the barracks, "I saw a figure on the roof and went to look and saw both of them with crossbows getting ready to attack. They were aiming at the group Angelika was in, but if it was lunars," He spits, "they could have been after the guy she was talking to."

Thanks, Haaro.  If you've lost sight of the particular Sable, come back to the inn.

In reply to GM (msg # 150):

Outside the Silent Partner Inn

Hoskar sighs. Guess that might be it. And here's me all clean and dressed up. Got too used to being "two-foot" I imagine.

Still think we should ride on out while we can.

"Two assassins? Well They couldn't have known that we are heading here and would arrive now. Doubt the target was our queen."

Melock shrugs, "It wasn't planned well, so maybe they rushed when they realised Angelika was here. Not much point waiting here, we might as well head back." Casting one last look at the barracks, he turns and heads slowly back to the others, checking the roofs and shadows for threats.

Amara cast a final look over the area where she thought the figure had fallen looking for signs of blood and her javelin before returning somewhat reluctantly to the gathering.

Since things had taken an unexpected turn, her eyes watched the surrounding area for any potential repeat of events.

It's late and the locals have dispersed including the chieftain's son and his guards. Surprising everyone, Angelika has decided to stay with the Rangers in their single room. A fact that was graciously accepted by her previous hosts. Anyone looking out of the window sees that several guards have been positioned outside. Probably unnecessary as anyone forcing their way in that way would have to get past the Zebra riders downstairs.


All in all the night had been a success, bar the assassins of course, but they'd looked to have failed their mission.

"I hear you killed one of them in a hand to hand battle on the rooftops Amara" smiles the Priestess after thanking her escort and accepting a cup of warm wine.

"Personally I think they were opportunists, perhaps here for a special reason, but keen to kill several pests at once..."

"We shall be staying another day or two, for I have negotiations with the Chief Davenos Garhound and he has promised a feast on the morrow. Tomorrow day is free time. There will be a chance to trade if that is your wish, but I suggest doing it here. Folk will come if word is put out. Normally we would have to do this outside the walls, but they seem to like us"

Angelika winks and laughs softly.

"There will be Lunars at the feast so hold your tongues. We know that they know that we know, as the saying goes...We are leaving the lands of cut first and entering a place where diplomacy and politics rule the day."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:04, Mon 03 Apr 2017.

Amara's eyes flared "Opportunists don't have escape routes planned and guards conveniently present to deter pursuit my Queen. They were highly prepared. Their magic was suited precisely to do this task. Their escape took them close by Lunar strongholds where the guards just happened to be present to forestall any further pursuit and the one I killed...well their body just happened to disappear...and I wasn't that far behind them. This wasn't opportunistic. It was planned....and had Lunar complicity."

Henal nods at Amara's words "This was the moon worshippers for sure, but they are too strong here to do more than stay watchful now".

Melock shakes his head, "This place is so small there wasn't many ways for them to run, the only plan they would have needed was to run towards the lunars." He swigs from a mug of ale he grabbed before heading up stairs, "They might not have been lunars, they may just be a rival clan, using the lunar presence for their own ends, it's what I'd do. I think we'll still need to stand watch tonight," He glances upwards, "a couple of us on the roof would be well placed to spot anyone approaching." Melock approaches Angelika, "Mistress, you'll still need guards tomorrow and I know that while we're here that is my job, but could someone else cover for me for a short time to I can acquire a new sword and maybe some better armour?"

"To clarify, I don't think the Lunars would move so openly. They have no need to. If they wished they could bring a Legion here and slaughter everyone. They are masters of the subtle move. It would benefit them greatly to say...ah the Queen of the Rhino tribe that is not friendly to them died in an unfortunate incident which also drove a wedge between the praxian riders and the sartarite clan living nearby, especially if a group that does support them benefits and I suspect the sable riders would benefit." Amara said "All it means to me is that we absolutely need to take care of our Queen in these hostile lands."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:57, Mon 03 Apr 2017.

Melock smiles at Amara, "I agree that they probably wouldn't make such a blatant move. Maybe by asking a few questions at the feast we can find out, though there will be risk in doing so, but as we're not staying here does it really matter if we don't find proof as to who was behind it?"

"We can hope that they have not put a spy in the chief's hearth,"Temush says "...but if they want to spilt us from the Garhounds, some sort of plant bane or snake bite in the food at the feast might do the job. Does one of us had a charm to spot such things?"

"A good idea," nods Kobal.  "These attackers were enhanced with magicks.  I'll keep watch on the roof."



"I don't know these moon worshippers and their ways, and I don't trust them.  Maybe they won't try anything at the feast itself.  Presumably even they would feel shame if something happens at a feast they host.  Still, it's easy enough to contrive an 'accident' or a feud between rival families before the feast or after the feast.

"Do you think if those Lhankor Mhy worshippers owe us anything, we could ask them for a divination?"

"Of course Melock...And good job spotting the assassins. I will buy you a new sword in thanks, but I suggest that you wait until Pavis as the selection is better. There's a red smith here but he'll fleece you. Same goes for armour, what little they have here will used for the warriors of the clan."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:10, Tue 04 Apr 2017.

When Angelika praises Melock a wide smile blossoms on his face, "Thank you, I'm just sorry at least one​ got away. I'll wait till Pavis then." He gets the cestus out, "The one I threw off the roof dropped this, I can use this in the meantime and its less obvious than a sword."



"It's worth asking them and even if they won't do it for free, we can pay."

Henal smiles "the greybeards may want something that I have so we can negotiate on prices for things with them".

Amara moved to Angelikas side. "While we accompany you, one of us will need to be with you at all times." she motioned to the others "I think we've a fairly shrewd idea of what happened here. I think it's a waste to ask the Lankhor Mhy sages for information when we can barter for other things of value to us."

She sighed heavily "If no-one is doing anything tomorrow, I'd like to spend some time with the warriors of this place. I need to learn more of their language and way of doing things. Learning how they fight will be part of that."

Pensive since the chase after the assassin, Hoskar says little but looks perturbed. Maybe the thought of two more days of keeping the Lady Angelika safe is preying on his mind, or maybe it's something else.

If it comes to protection he observes I've got nothing I can't put off, and I can charm out a sense of enemies. Occasionally, I even get a tingle if there's an ambush.

He turns towards Angelika. Do you wish to be accompanied by a guard, my lady? If so, would I serve the purpose?

I've found out what Goodfeather was trying, nothing else to do except seek out deals, and there's always another day for that.

"Tomorrow I shall spend the day in the mansion. I shall be safe there. Spend the day as you see fit. Get drunk. Sleep. A second attempt will not be attempted, for now everyone is extra vigilant."

It is not a pleasant day. It's dark, cold and foreboding, with the feeling that everything bad that could happen might. After a warming breakfast downstairs with the Zebra riders the Rangers are free to do what they wish.

Angelika is escorted by the town's warriors to meet with their chieftain, happy to allow any Rangers that wanted to, to accompany her. The wind is fierce, with a promise of a storm as it slaps into those making the walk across town.

At the Lightbringers Temple, Henal finds the two Scribes breaking their fast, inside, sat by a struggling fire. Shown the Snake skin, they gingerly unravel it to show the writing on it's inner surface. The Thunderbird Brave sees the gleams in their eyes and knows he's onto a good thing...

"Do you wish to sell it or for us to tell you what it is?" one asks.

Not soon after Kobal finds himself at the same location though in another room, showing his staff to the Duck and his right hand man Hommi....

"Where'd you get this?" asks the Duck cordially, offering Kobal a seat next to their brazier "It's from Sartar over the mountains...Can tell by the wood. And it's a trader's staff alright. Blessed by Issarries so that it helps with one's business. If you're willing I'll buy it off you Master Kobal"

Temush realises that he'll need his mount to find whom he's looking for, and directions too. The egg, wrapped up, is hot to the touch and close to hatching...

Henal looks at the greybeards and answers "how about both?"
This message was lightly edited by the player at 19:56, Tue 04 Apr 2017.

Before Amara heads off to find some warriors to talk to, Melock approaches her, "Even though Angelika thinks she'll be safe, I still think at least one of us should be with her. What do you think? I know you've got people to see, I don't mind splitting the duty with you, I can do half a day and you can do the other half."

Amara nodded at Melocks suggestion. "I agree. She has more confidence in these people than I do. She might complain, but she can't just think of herself any more. Her loss would be devastating to our tribe and there aren't that many of us any more. Do you want go first or should I?"

"I'll do the morning shift, that way I've got time to prepare for tonight's feast, I'm planning to do some story telling for the kids before we eat then afterwards there'll be a few more tales to tell."

Amara nodded, smiling at Melocks words "I'll be upset if she gives you the slip and from the sounds of it, in her younger days she was quite the hellion. I wonder sometimes who I take after more. My mother or my adopted mother." Amara's smile turned a little sad as she set off to find some warriors to talk to. She wasn't happy about the town, the smells and the food and even the clothing was way off. Something just felt odd.

"If she gives me the slip, you've every right to be upset. You're so like Angelika I sometime forget she's not your mum." Melock's face drops as he realises that its a sad subject for Amara. Whishing he could think of something to cheer Amara up with, he looks round for Angelika and has to run out of the inn to catch them up, "Mistress, this morning I have the honour of guarding you and after lunch Amara will have the same honour."

Opening the door of the Silent Partner, Temush is surprised when the cold wind whips it out of his grasp (snatching the Zana root out of his mouth) and slams it in his face, nearly making him drop the egg. After flapping his gums for a few moments regretting his Zana chew, he turns on his heel and seeks out Ohanzee.

"Umm, it's no day out there for an egg that's set to hatch", he says, scratching his toe in the dust, "I won't be gone long, would you keep an eye on it 'til I get back?" It was just laid the day we got here so they said, so there's some charm at work I think. I mean I know it won't make up for Kangee and all, but, you know, if it does hatch, feed it - must dash, thanks so much..."
putting the egg bundle down by the Raven brave he makes a rapid exit.

Once outside he looks for any shops or stalls that sell ostrich feather products and asks for directions to the Old Ostrich Rider's camp.

"Why's it a waste?" asks Kobal.  "What else do we have to ask those sages?  We ask about the White Lance, or Tada's Portions, but I think if it was that easy to get the answer, someone else would have also found them.  Although... I wonder if anyone has ever asked about Emesh-Ga's armour or axe..."




Kobal takes the offered seat.  His eyes narrow slightly at the duck's words.  Hopefully Goodfeather didn't notice.  "It was a gift from the spirit of one of the Kheldon tribe.  We found his body in the Wastes, and he gave me the staff in thanks for laying his body to rest.  What do you mean by 'business'?  You mean it helps when trading with others?  Certainly I feel more confident when I speak to others holding the staff, but does it help to strike bargains as well?  What would you offer for the staff?"

Ohanzee looks quizzically at the bundled eggs and all to late blurts out "Wait, what...!" but the little Ostrich rider is gone before he can say much more.

He finishes the question to himself, to the egg, "What am I supposed to do with this, with you?"

"What did he said, set to hatch? So too far gone to cook up then." He sighs "Gone are my chances of looking about this place, sat baby sitting you till he returns by the look of it."

In reply to Ohanzee Shappa (msg # 183):

At the bar, Hoskar is attempting to chat with whoever's present; putting it about he might have a few items for sale from his travels if anyone's interested: oddities from the wastes, information on trading conditions downriver and the like, as Temush leaves.

He looks over his shoulder, and offers think I'm staying put. It's good to be in a proper inn for a change, and good to relax and talk. if you have plans, I'll stick here and keep the egg warm.

The first person he asks explains that the old man camps outside the town with his birds. "There's a dried gully, you'll see it if you head to the stream here and look north. Follow it for half an hour and you'll either spy his camp smoke first or the dense area of vegetation that is his camp."

Once outside Temush discovers that until he gets in out of the wind, perhaps in a gully, he'll have to lead his Ostrich, for the wind is brutal...

"Aye it helps you bargain and gain a benefit when trading, though it can be used as you likely do, when communicating about anything. It is what our god does.

Offer?" and here a wily look comes over the Duck's face "What do you need?"

 


Protected by their Truth runes from getting fleeced Henal is given an honest appraisal. For free as they are happy to be escorted to safety...

"It is a collection of religious hymns and if they are written by whom I think it is, worth a hefty sum at our temple. Some 2000 silvers, perhaps more from sun worshippers though they are more likely to kill you for it than pay."

Amara finds herself following Melock and Angelika for they are escorted by warriors of the Chieftain. Once their wards have entered the large stone and adobe mansion, they turn to Amara with interest, showering her with questions, half hostile half with genuine respect

"You killed one of the Assassins."

"Who are your gods?"

"You are Rhino and worship Orlanth yes?"

"Your people are worthy warriors."

"Pah she is but a girl!" "Shut up, she is no different to our Vingans, and worthy of respect."

"Do you wish to spar?"

"Show us your javelin skills?"

The egg radiates heat.

Melock finds himself divested of weapons, though no one takes his cestus, and the guard searching him recoils from the small spiders that appear every time the brave is prodded.

Angelika is brought to a well appointed room, like nothing Melock has ever seen before, filled with wooden furniture, carpets, wall hangings and many servants.

A large man dressed in well made clothes and heavy furs sits in a low chair of strange design. The Chieftain for certain.

He rises to greet Angelika with a hug and calls for a similar chair to be brought. Once sat they drink from animal horns and share a light repast.

During all this Melock stands against a wall with the other warriors, who play their eyes over the strange young nomad in their midst.

So far only pleasantries have been exchanged and Melock has time to take in the wealth of the room...

 

"After the way the yellow beards acted towards my friends I wouldn't wish to sell to them. 2,000 silver can help a lot when we reach Pavis so it sounds like a bargain to me. I'm not going to get the one that rides with us that follows Issaries to try and bargain that up more as we can do with some good will from other people when we reach there." Henal replies to the sages.

Ohanzee unwraps the top of the egg enough to touch the shell and almost recoils from it "How can so much heat come from you?"

He picks it up and cradles it as he takes some food to break his fast.

As his weapons are removed Melock frowns, but stays quiet other than chuckling at their reaction to his spiders. When he sees the room Melocks eyes go wide at the riches around him and he does his best to distract himself from Ravens temptation by checking the other warriors to see if anyone looks like the assassins.

Amara tried to answer the plethora of questions in her somewhat broken Sartarite "I am Amara Brightsky of the Skywatcher rhino clan. Our clan holds a special place for the Storm King and the Red Headed warrior and the other lightbringers, but we are praxian, where all must also pay respect and homage to Waha and Eiritha."

She nodded to the suggestion of a sparring contest "I have heard many stories sitting at the foot of our Queen of Sartar and the brave warriors that have fought for it, but I'm still unfamiliar with many of your ways. I would like to learn more. Perhaps we can talk as we fight? Presumably you have a place for me to show you how I throw javelins and where we can practice?"

"Well," says Kobal, leaning back on his seat, "truth be told, I had not thought to sell the staff when I came to the temple to ask about it - only to learn more about it, because it comes from beyond Prax and the Wastes.  We Dedra are a simple people.  I have a wife, a good steed, a herd - the important things.  Do you have anything you think would interest me?"

 


"Make sure you bring it with you when you collect your payment for escorting us."

Henal spies Kobal entering another room in the Temple.

"At my store there is much to interest a warrior such as yourself. It is on the way to the Pairing Stones, so you can always stop by."

As his hand touches the shell he feels it sucking at his energy, drawing the feeling of loss and death out from him and into the shell.

There's an audible crack and a hairline fracture appears. Then another as if something is trying to get out.

By his side Hoskar finds that there are no other patrons at this time of day.

Whilst Angelika talks with her host Melock checks out the other warriors. One stands out.

Sweaty and with rolling eyes, that dart this way and that, the short warrior notices Melock looking and shifts from one foot to the other, his face flushing slightly.

Melock also notices two of the servants from the kitchen the day before.

Amara is brought around the back to an open space by the town walls, where a large and battered shield is propped up.

Javelins are collected and each takes turns in throwing the missiles. The Thunderbird brave wins easily, out throwing her competitors with style. The news of this soon spreads and a small crowd gathers, mostly local warriors of the chief's household but also a group of Lunar Sable riders.

Melock leans towards the nearest warrior and in a low voice, "Does your boss normally let," he nods towards the sweaty guy, "him work in that state?" Once he's pointed out the warrior, he watches the two servants while he talks to see if they are serving Angelika.

Amara gave some helpful suggestions to the warriors she was practicing with. Keeping an eye on the sable riders as she practiced, suspecting they were here only to evaluate the opposition. "Don't things ever get testy between you?" she asked the warriors she was practicing with. She wondered why the town would allow a Lunar incursion.

"How about some axe and shield practice next?" she suggested.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:55, Thu 06 Apr 2017.

The guard looks at Melock, not understanding him at all. Calling one of the women over he speaks to her, causing the woman to ask Melock what he wanted.

"Ah...That's Weird Al. Don't mind him, he's touched by the spirits. Detects all sorts of stuff that goes on" having answered she winks at Melock and goes back to serving Angelika with some honeyed seed cakes.

"Nah, they keep to themselves. There's been fights but theirs and ours guv'nors soon put a stop to that. If we have any beef now we sort it out quiet like with a fist fight at the back of one of the inns. There's one tonight. You can come if you want. Though you'll have to take an oath first."

"Axe and shields sounds fine."

Amara finds herself with three other warriors on her side up against four opponents...

Amara nodded seeing the wisdom in the warriors words, somewhat pleased both the lunar representative and the chief had things in order...although if they were that close that might explain the attack on Angelika last night. "I wouldn't mind joining you tonight. I'll need to see how my duties go with respect to our Queen first. Who do you think was behind the attack last night?" Amara joined the lineup, preparing for a good sparring match. "You have an interesting fighting style. I'm afraid I'm much more used to fighting on the back of my rhino. Nothing quite beats a charge with a rhino towards a mass of enemies and ripping through them with lances. I'm not quite as good with axe and shield as I am with a javelin."

He nods.  "I will certainly do so, if the Snowspear allows us."  Kobal stands up.  "Thank you, Wise One, for your insight."

He takes his leave of the duck priest, staff in hand, and goes to speak to the resident staff of the temple, offering a necklace of beads, semi-precious stones & griffin feathers in thanks for the resurrection of Ohanzee, before making his way to the shrine for Waha.

The gift is accepted graciously by the temple and Kobal is blessed thrice by the Priests that are present...

Not long after he finds himself before the shrine to Waha... A simple altar consisting of a simple statue of Waha surrounded by herd beast skulls, totems and the remains of recent offerings of oil, spices and blood.

Next to him are his parents Storm Bull and Eiritha, their shrines also with similar offerings.

A holy place and well looked after by the settlers. Something to be remembered.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:49, Thu 06 Apr 2017.

"Last night?"

"Why the Lunars, who else?" comes back the surprised reply.

Melock tenses and takes a half step towards Angelika when he sees her given food, but he stops himself, Calm down, of course she getting served food, its a feast. If they wanted to poison her, they could have done it last night. Those servants work for the household. He lets his eyes drift to the rich ornaments that adorn the room and he starts sweating and clasps his hands behind his back, Leave them.. take them.. no.. yes..  Melock turns sharply and approaches Weird Al, desperate to take his mind off all the glittering things, "Weird Al, I'm Melock. I hear you talk to spirits and the such, is that true?"

"I will do that, now back to trying to protect our party from the ill wishers and moon worshippers here". Henal replies.

Ohanzee jolts his hand back in surprise before carefully unwrapping the rest of the egg and holding it in his hands.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:17, Fri 07 Apr 2017.

The bison brave bows before the shrine and lays a length of knotted across the altar of the Great Khan.

Holding his arms up before himself, he invokes the god.

Great Lord, you are our father.
Thank you for your favour, bestowed on my brow.
Show me how to unite the land, as you did when all was breaking apart.
Teach me to read the signs in the serpents, in the dunes, in the rocks.
Give me the strength to heed your call.
Let my mind always focus on your ways.
Let my lips always chant your songs.
Let my heart always follow your teachings.
Let my hands and my steed always serve your will.


He pays homage too to the Storm Bull and the Mother of Herds.

The man jumps, startled by the sudden approach of Melock. It takes several moments before his mind engages and he replies in a tongue unrecognisable to Melock. Both of his eyes cross dramatically.

The serving girl comes back "None of these lads speak your tongue, and you'll get no sense from Al."

The great spirits hear his prayers, Storm Bull's wind picking up as Kobal chants and the Rangers' nearby mounts set up a happy cacophony of sounds in response. For the rest of the day Kobal walks unaffected by the strong winds.

"If that's going to hatch I'd put it somewhere safe if I was you" mentions the owner of the Inn. "It'll take a long while to get free."

He smiles at the girls words, "I thought as he spoke to spirits, he would know their language." Melock runs his hand through his hair, "How come you know it? Maybe I should stay close to you so you can tell other people what I'm saying?"

"So...you think your chief was the target? I have to wonder if our Queen was...but then it doesn't make sense. We're all but invisible to the Lunars."  she subtly nodded towards the sable riders "but not those people. And the assassins were women...and sable society tends to be matriarchal...just wondering."
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:13, Sat 08 Apr 2017.

Ohanzee looks up at the inn owner "You know much about them? Raided for them a few times, but mostly they end up as meat pretty quickly and any that hang around longer are cared for by the Ostrich Rider slaves."

"My friend kind of dumped it on me and left. Said it'd hatch today and it'd be hungry. I think he also said it was laid just today, or is that yesterday now? Either way that's pretty damn fast for a hatching!"

"Mind you there's a charm on it, it's damn near hot enough to cook itself and the egg drew some bad feelings out of me like a poultice just as it cracked."

"I don't think I should leave it, but I should have something ready in case it hatches before he returns, some food. Grain I guess, but there's nothing usual about this egg so far, so who knows what's inside!"

"No, our chief wasn't there, just his son. So likely he yes."

"Couple of strangers arrived in town the other day. Didn't see them myself."

"Two men I heard."

"Wrapped up well"

"Was cold though."
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:13, Sat 08 Apr 2017.

"No I keep chickens" answers the proprietor "I'd bring it to your room. Came from the old man did it?"

"Aye, Well you can help me with these empty platters." She smiles  mischievously as she plies Melock with an armload of empty wooden plates and trays. Then with a swirl and a become heads through a doorway "kitchens..."

Melock notices that several of the guards are smiling.

As Henal leaves the scribes, Goodfeather, leaning from his own room, beckons to the brave

"You have something to sell?" he enquires.

"I guess so, he didn't say. Certainly didn't bring it with him, his bird isn't laying. Can I get a bag of chicken grain then?"

When the grain comes Ohanzee retires to the room.

In reply to GM (msg # 219):

"Hmmm...two men? That's all? Which inn is this that they went to? Would we be allowed there?" Amara asked as she started out her warm ups for the sparring match soon to follow.

"The offices of the Commission for the Armistice."

"Nah me mum saw them go in to the Seven Mothers Temple."

"They were in the Bartered Beast lunch time. Cousin Harmast swears he served them."

The lower room is quite raucous and smelly, what with half a dozen Zebra braves hanging out, washing clothes, mending equipment and suffering hangovers. They call out to Ohanzee as he enters, watching him as he ascends the ladder with his Ostrich egg and bag of seed.

Upstairs he finds Delenda sharpening her axes.

"Ah you made it back then?" She sees the egg but says nothing returning to her weapons. Od the Sun County girl there is no sign.

Amara listened carefully, but didn't put down to malice the contradictions she was hearing. it might remain to be seen that the Sartarite warriors were in fact misleading her, but the camaraderie of sparring led her to think that they just didn't know and were trying to come up with reasonable explanations themselves. She was going to have to speak to Melock to find out more about these strangers.

Amara threw herself into the sparring match with abandon, enjoying having warriors to practice with that used a different style in their fighting. She had new tricks to learn from every foe...and every friend more. once again she gave advice and suggestions where she was invited to.

After half hour, with water having been offered to wash with and Ale to drink, Amara and the men have just sat down to catch their breath when two older men come from the mansion. They are obviously important for the Garhound men get back to their feet.

"Darvenos wishes to see her. The one who killed the assassin on the rooftops."

Both men stare at Amara, waiting for her to join them.

"It our chieftain" says one of her sparring partners "Best not keep him waiting."

Amara nodded silently moving from a fighting stance back into a more relaxed one. "I'm due on guard duty soon. Could one of you inform Angelika and Melock that I might be late?"

Amara wrapped her thick red shawl around her "Is there time to wash? I'm afraid I've been sparring and the road is hard. I don't feel tremendously presentable" she asked the two that arrived.

Ohanzee waves back actually glad to see them, which he puts down to the return of giving a dam!

"Where's the girl, the yellow haired people?"

He puts the egg down carefully "Have you ever heard of such a thing as an egg hatching within one day of laying?"

His visits to the temple and shrines finished, Kobal walks slowly back to the Silent Partner, taking his time to observe all about him.  In Coflu, the sense of the Lunars everywhere was much stronger.  Here, although there's a Lunar and Sable presence, it's countered by the Orlanthi and Praxian natives.

Washed and rested Amara soon finds herself being brought into the mansion, up some stairs and into a room filled with people. Angelika is there, sat with an imposing looking man, dressed well and giving off the air of someone very powerful.

Melock is in the background, laden down with platters...

One of the men escorting Amara introduces her to the Chieftain, who then beckons her forward to stand before where he and the Vingan Priestess sit.

"So you are the warrior who killed one of the assassins last night. Tell me how the deed was done Amara BrightSky."

"Safe" comes back the answer



"So it's not for breakfast then? No I haven't. Where did you steal it from?"

The walk is stress free and quiet, with few people about. Those that are watch Kobal with a mixture of suspicion or warmth, depending on whether they recognise him from the night before.

Reaching the Inn he finds Hoskar sat by himself.

Amara was rather relieved that Angelika was present. She didn't precisely know Sartarite forms of etiquette, so she did her best and since she was feeling somewhat clean, she felt good.

"I can certainly relate my tale, great chieftain"

Amara stood in front of the chieftain, raising an eyebrow questioningly at Melock.

"The real problem with any story is knowing where to start. So let me start with Ohanzee returning to us. A glorious event. One to be celebrated.....and we did. Food and drink, singing and dancing. I had fun, but Ohanzee's...detachment after he returned was bothering me, so I went for a walk to clear my head and think about things." Amara smiled "I was returning to the celebration, having thought some things through and more to the point I bumped into a bunch of drunken soldiers and it seemed unwise to be present as it might start a fight.

Just as I arrived back at the celebration, I heard the cries of people who were hurt and a dark shadow flee above me. I used my charms and climbed to the roof after her. When I made it to the roof, the woman was on the verge of escaping for good. I could not let anyone who had hurt so many escape unpunished and although I'd have rather caught her, her magic was stronger than mine. So I pulled a javelin from my quiver and threw it with Vingas strength. The javelin hit the woman in the head. She fell from the rooftop with no control to her movement or thought of self.

I was not pleased as I was hoping to wound her so she could be caught and tell us what she knew. I climbed down from the roof and ran to the place where I'd seen her fall. There was no sign of her body. However, some Lunar guards were present, as the building the assassin had fallen from happened to be a building with a big red moon drawn on it. Of the assassin? There was no sign. No blood, no javelin, no body. The lunar soldiers would not let us look further. So I do not know if the assassin is dead, chieftain, I just have strong suspicions that she is."
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:38, Mon 10 Apr 2017.

As he settles into a drink, Kobal tells Hoskar about his discussion with the Issaries priest.  "I'll probably keep the staff," he says.  "Even if I no longer want it, I'm sure you'd find it useful.  Unless Goodfeather happens to have something particularly good among his wares."

Henal looks at the durulz trying hard to look inscrutable. "Maybe only knowledge which the greybeards will pay for"

"That's not quite what I meant." he looks down at the plates that have been dumped on him, "I'm Angelika's guard, I need to stay near her." Melock finds the nearest table and drops the washing up on it. Shaking his head, Melock looks round the room for any new people that may have entered while he was distracted, he finds his eyes keep getting drawn to the expensive furnishings and he starts getting itchy palms, when he spots Amara, Melock relaxes slightly.



Melock grins at her and quickly points to himself, then the kitchen door. He grabs the recently dumped washing up and heads through the door, looking for his new friend.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:59, Mon 10 Apr 2017.

Ohanzee smiles at the first answer "I wouldn't expect anything else from you."

As for the egg, no that strange Sun Hawk follower left me it. It's enchanted and linked to my return in some way I feel."

He shrugs "Mind you, all Sun Hawk followers are strange to me, Temush is no stranger than the next."

By this time he is seated and the egg is cradled in his lap. He looks up at the Axe Maiden "I don't just steal, I'm alright at that, but I'm better at music, music and singing."

Then, as if to prove the point he starts into an impromptu song

Born of an egg of the strangest flock,
The wonkiest hatchling that ever was.
Given by a worshipper who prefers the sun.
Sucked away loss
And cracked today, returned some fun

Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic

What a crazy strange egg this one is
All the bad feelings its shell took
And with them started to crack
No Delenda Axe Sister it's not a feast
It's life begun as mine returned
On our pilgrimage west

Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic

With a little bit of Raven magic
There'll be fun every night
With a little bit of Raven magic
Every thing will be all right

Born of an egg of the strangest flock,
The wonkiest hatchling that ever was.
Given by a worshipper who prefers the sun.
Sucked away loss
And cracked today, returned some fun

Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic
Wonky magic, wonky magic"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:46, Mon 10 Apr 2017.

The Chieftain smiles at this "Well I have word that a body was  carried out of that building and into the Seven Mothers' Temple just before daw. Dead she was indeed.

Come closer for I have a gift for you."

A servant hands something glinting to Darvenos, who holding it up shows that it is a gold armband. Once Amara approaches he stands and places it on her right arm

"For protecting my son I name you friend of the Garhound clan. This armband marks you as that for all to see. I have need of warriors such as you, but Angelika here tells me that you and your companions are sworn to a life's mission already. No matter.
I do have a request and that is to go to Geo's Inn once you are in New Pavis, for there is a little something you might be able to do to help us. Ask for Govoran the Magnificent and say that I sent you. He shall explain what it is needed."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:10, Mon 10 Apr 2017.

The were duck merely shrugs and goes back into his room.

As Henal goes to leave a voice calls out "You follow Thunderbird do you not?" It is the chieftain's son Deskor, who is leaning against a pillar.

"I have offering sacrifice to Orlanth in thanks for my surviving the attack last night. You were one of those that chased the assassin yes? Your mob is a strange one indeed. My clans men have talked little else than about the guardian spirit that walks with you and the fact that so many young braves carry warmer that Thanes would be glad to call their own. How is this so?"

Henal looks at Deskor. "I follow the Thunderbird, confounding chaos with our strikes. Yes, I helped chase the assassin, where we think Amara slew one with her javelin. Because of the Lunar's we could not confirm it though."

He pauses for a moment then continues:

"We have been chosen or chosen to follow a path that has brought us a lot of peril, but did bring us some rewards with the weapons and armour that we carry. Even talking to our tribal elders we have seen much more than many braves that are 10 years older in our missions and that has brought us to where we are."

"Many of our companions have fallen in our quests so it is a hard road that we travel to try and bring back the green to the wastes."

Amara blinked in surprise at the gift, she bowed showing as much deference to the chieftain as she would to one of her own Khans "This gift is priceless beyond words. To be known as a friend to the Garhound clan is truly a magnificent thing. When in Pavis, our Queen and our mission takes priority, but should I have some spare time, I'll do as you ask and see what I can do to help you and your clan."