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17:23, 3rd May 2024 (GMT+0)

Too the Gates and beyond....

Posted by GMFor group 0
GM
GM, 10922 posts
Tue 16 Jan 2018
at 07:45
  • msg #1

Too the Gates and beyond....

Not long after dawn the Rangers are up and moving. It's still dark and the sky is filled with clouds, but with the help of Ohanzee and the Enlo a serviceable track is soon found.

It's not long before other folk are spotted, small groups of travellers, not unlike the Wandering Rangers, armed and armoured and heading for the nearby city. Soon a large group of vagabonds, scoundrels and adventurers have banded together as they all follow the great walls to their final destination.

Tents are spied: a vast camp of Sable riders, their folk already up and about, but still far enough away to mean that the Rangers will be unmolested for the moment.

Ohanzee feels the eye of the other travellers on his giant Rhino and there's mutterings about the Enlo in their midst. It's been decided to give Badside a wide berth and to cross the river by bridge and make a beeline for the nearest gate which Hoskar says opens into an area called Riverside...

It's only when the Ranger's turn west that Feldspar suddenly stops, digging his feet in and refusing to budge. His eyes roll and he begins to paw the ground angrily.
Kobal
player, 2007 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 16 Jan 2018
at 07:57
  • msg #2

Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal reins in Black Hoof.  "What's with your rhino, Blue Arm?"  He has his shield and lance ready, in case the animal is raising an alarm.
GM
GM, 10923 posts
Tue 16 Jan 2018
at 08:39
  • msg #3

Too the Gates and beyond....

The rest of those travelling to the city pass by, heading to Badside and the bridge beyond. Hoskar intends to bring the Rangers to the bridge but to bypass Badside.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2724 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Tue 16 Jan 2018
at 09:03
  • msg #4

Too the Gates and beyond....

This morning, Hoskar has been busy ensuring his own armour is largely packed up and secured with some improbably-involuted knots. He thinks they say, "Property of Two-Hands reward for return", hoping that if lost they'll find their way back to his mother; but thanks to an unfortunate miscalculation and his own limited knowledge of knot-writing, they actually proclaim, "Best luck rancid fish knee jerky" as well as securing the bundles.

He also spends some time roping his father's sword into its sheath, with one end of the rope looped tautly round his waist and exerting a slight pull.

If you are attending to me, you are not looking aggressive around the law here he observes to the Rangers in general.

Issaries grant us words to soothe and enter he implores silently

When Feldspar pulls up, so do Hoskar and Ram. It's okay he murmurs soothingly. Is the stone here wrong? although he's not at all sure why he's talking to a rhino who's likely to lack means to reply.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:04, Tue 16 Jan 2018.
Melock
player, 4474 posts
Bison
Raven
Tue 16 Jan 2018
at 13:30
  • msg #5

Too the Gates and beyond....

Melock watches Feldspar's antics and shakes his head, "This isn't good, if he's like this now, what's he going to be like in the city?" He looks in the direction of Pavis, "At least he's got enough sense not to want to go there."
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3891 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Tue 16 Jan 2018
at 20:29
  • msg #6

Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee slips from the rhino's back landing on his feet "He's not going to be in the city. It's walls are not natural. They are an affront to Great Rhino and Feldspar knows it."

He turns back to the beast and pats him "We must go in. Take yourself off out of this place and I shall call you with horn when we are leaving."

"We will be going to the Pairing Stones in a few days, meet us there if you like."

He transfers to the zebra he's been using as a pack animal.
Kobal
player, 2008 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 02:35
  • msg #7

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
He also spends some time roping his father's sword into its sheath, with one end of the rope looped tautly round his waist and exerting a slight pull.

If you are attending to me, you are not looking aggressive around the law here he observes to the Rangers in general.


Kobal frowns.  "Do we have to do that?  I'd be nervous with my sword bound, particularly with all these Sables and Moon worshippers around."

Ohanzee Shappa:
Ohanzee slips from the rhino's back landing on his feet "He's not going to be in the city. It's walls are not natural. They are an affront to Great Rhino and Feldspar knows it."


And that rhino is natural...?
Amara Brightsky
player, 3547 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 03:40
  • msg #8

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"If they bind swords, then we should just use javelins and spears or axes to kill our enemies." Amara hazarded "I'm not overly fussy in how we go killing people....if the need should occur."

She watched Feldspar with some sympathy "It makes my skin crawl to know we are heading to this city filled with the thieves of the Garden and more. I can understand Feldspar's feelings. I have no real desire to enter it myself, but we are promised to get the mother of my heart to this foul place regardless....and if I am being honest I wish to see if these people are as decadent as everyone says they are."
Kobal
player, 2009 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 03:54
  • msg #9

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"Yes, I wonder what I'd have to do about my lance and javelins," says Kobal.  "I'm fine fighting with my fists, if but my enemy has a weapon, I'd rather have one too."

"As for the city, I don't care about thieves and decadence.  It's full of foreigners and I'm sure it'll smell.  The Khan of Khans himself once stormed its walls.  But we have some things to do here, and at least we can report back to our elders about it."
Amara Brightsky
player, 3548 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 03:59
  • msg #10

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"There may come a time again, when we reclaim this place for us and ours....but not today." she flashed a smile at Kobal.
GM
GM, 10927 posts
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 07:38
  • msg #11

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Feldspar trots off, leaving a trail of dust in his wake and the Rangers are now able to navigate their way past the outskirts of Badside, which looks to be a collection of ramshackle buildings, lean-tos, tents and rubbish. A place filled with thieves and worse, says Hoskar as he leads the way.

Once past they approach the stone and wooden bridge that arches over the Zola Fel. Across the other side is New Pavis, it's 6m high walls gleaming despite the day's gloominess.

Far below, the river already teems with reed boats, and a dozen fires along the banks send their acrid smoke trailing into the sky.

As for the bridge it's already crowded with scores of people and herd beasts, the animals being sent over to the city for slaughter. At it's start there's a guard post with several Lunar soldiers looking over those that are crossing, but they seem not be stopping anyone.

After receiving barely a glance the braves find themselves winding their way up a steep track toward a small gate in the walls above them.

River Gate.

Hoskar points out the Temple of Zola Fel below, it being a large wooden boat tied up at the bank.

Nearing the gate the Rangers are assailed by locals, selling wares and offering services within the city.
Kobal
player, 2010 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 07:54
  • msg #12

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
Nearing the gate the Rangers are assailed by locals, selling wares and offering services within the city.


Kobal glares at any hawker who gets too close to Black Hoof, and ignores their sales pitches.  They're all likely thieves.  Otherwise, his eyes are drawn the mass of people and creatures heading into the city, and its high walls.  Despite any emnity between Waha and Pavis, the walls are impressive.
GM
GM, 10928 posts
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 08:34
  • msg #13

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
GM:
Nearing the gate the Rangers are assailed by locals, selling wares and offering services within the city.


Kobal glares at any hawker who gets too close to Black Hoof, and ignores their sales pitches.  They're all likely thieves.  Otherwise, his eyes are drawn the mass of people and creatures heading into the city, and its high walls.  Despite any emnity between Waha and Pavis, the walls are impressive.

"Ere mister wots your name?" Asks one of the young locals, a teenage girl with a cloth strip covering one eye. She tugs at Kobal's leg insistantly.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:35, Wed 17 Jan 2018.
Kobal
player, 2011 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 09:00
  • msg #14

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
"Ere mister wots your name?" Asks one of the young locals, a teenage girl with a cloth strip covering one eye. She tugs at Kobal's leg insistantly.


"None of your business," replies the brave, pushing her away, firmly but not violently, with his leg.  Probably a thief.  Probably a ploy to distract him, while an accomplice steals from the items packed onto Black Hoof.  He tries to glance back every now and then to make sure nothing of the sort happens.  And with her injured eye, probably a diseased thief.

He groans inwardly.  Pavis is going to be a fun place.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2726 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 09:09
  • msg #15

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

As he does his best to keep eyes on everyone, watching warily for cutpurses, priggers, and sundry ne'er-do-wells, Hoskar does manage to offer thoughts on weapons.

Maybe I am overdoing it with the rope. When I am last here, they are not keen on weapons, or hefty armour. Today I am a talker so the sword is not needed. He shrugs. If you are needing to pack away the weapons, the gate guards are saying so. And do not be arguing if they say so or we are left out here.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:14, Wed 17 Jan 2018.
Melock
player, 4475 posts
Bison
Raven
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 11:12
  • msg #16

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

As they approach the bridge, Melock does his best to cross it in the middle and keeps his eyes low and focused in front of himself. He chuckles when he hears Kobals new friend talk to him, risking a quick glance in his direction. Once they are over the bridge he looks round with wide eyed wonder, "It can't just be me who's excited to be here?"
GM
GM, 10930 posts
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 12:15
  • msg #17

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
GM:
"Ere mister wots your name?" Asks one of the young locals, a teenage girl with a cloth strip covering one eye. She tugs at Kobal's leg insistantly.


"None of your business," replies the brave, pushing her away, firmly but not violently, with his leg.  Probably a thief.  Probably a ploy to distract him, while an accomplice steals from the items packed onto Black Hoof.  He tries to glance back every now and then to make sure nothing of the sort happens.  And with her injured eye, probably a diseased thief.

He groans inwardly.  Pavis is going to be a fun place.

"You're a fine one sat up there all stinky and bad mannered" comes the reply "I was told to look out for a Bison Rider with the mark of Waha on his brow...Kobal.....Didn't get told he was an arsehole too."
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 528 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 13:40
  • msg #18

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
Kobal:
GM:
"Ere mister wots your name?" Asks one of the young locals, a teenage girl with a cloth strip covering one eye. She tugs at Kobal's leg insistantly.


"None of your business," replies the brave, pushing her away, firmly but not violently, with his leg.  Probably a thief.  Probably a ploy to distract him, while an accomplice steals from the items packed onto Black Hoof.  He tries to glance back every now and then to make sure nothing of the sort happens.  And with her injured eye, probably a diseased thief.

He groans inwardly.  Pavis is going to be a fun place.

"You're a fine one sat up there all stinky and bad mannered" comes the reply "I was told to look out for a Bison Rider with the mark of Waha on his brow...Kobal.....Didn't get told he was an arsehole too."

Temush chuckles from the rear "Then you may know that you can take it from me that you've found him" he says leaning into view
Melock
player, 4476 posts
Bison
Raven
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 15:44
  • msg #19

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Melock laughs loudly at the girls comment. He turns to check no one is trying to nick any of his gear and yelps and jumps in surprise, almost falling off of Stinky. After a few seconds, where he's hanging by one hand, he manages to haul himself back up, he keeps his head down and can be heard muttering to himself, the only words anyone can make out are, "longer.... rider..."
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2728 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 19:49
  • msg #20

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....


Hoskar turns too and smiles, muttering to himself as he turns. He looks around intently.

Home from home - nothing as it is appearing elsewhere he observes mildly.
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1604 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 21:23
  • msg #21

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Henal listens intently to Hoskar's words.

"I don't like it, but we ain't here to fight this time, so better do what these bloody townies want. Too many of them and the moon worshippers here to fight. At least they'll think I'm a zebra rider not really one of our people".

He rides on his zebra, looking about curiously till Hoskar is accosted, then he looks intently for thieves using the distraction.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3892 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Wed 17 Jan 2018
at 21:26
  • msg #22

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee laughs "Your grasp of our language is good, very good. Rather than arsehole though, we refer to him as Tada's Ring." He winks from within the shadows of his hyena headdress "Has a much grander... well, ring to it I should say."

"After all he is from a line of Khan's, destined for greatness you see. Oh and a Khan in the making, one that hasn't gotten there yet, we call them a Khan't."

"So the proper title would be Khan't Tada's Ring."
Kobal
player, 2012 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 02:55
  • msg #23

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
"You're a fine one sat up there all stinky and bad mannered" comes the reply "I was told to look out for a Bison Rider with the mark of Waha on his brow...Kobal.....Didn't get told he was an arsehole too."


"Ah, y-yes, I am Kobal.  Who are you, and who asked you to find me?  I wasn't expecting to meet anyone here."  Must've been the Snowspear who sent her.  No one else would know of us coming here.  He relaxes his leg and tries not to appear suspicious of her.  Haaro, still watch my gear for me.

Various thoughts cross his mind, but he decides to ignore Ohanzee for now.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3550 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 04:06
  • msg #24

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara glanced back at Ohanzee with a withering look "You know he'll be Khan one day right? So why antagonize him now? I mean...I have to tolerate you because I'm married to you....but one day? He'll have many braves listening to his every word...and some of them might decide you need to show more respect. Probably using their fists...and you're so old and small you might not last long without showing the proper deference." hse frowned as she thought on Henals words "You mean these people can't just tell I'm rhino clan by looking at me? They might think we're zebra riders?" A look of shock appeared on amara's face, swiftly turning to one of distaste "That's gross."
GM
GM, 10932 posts
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 06:39
  • msg #25

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
GM:
"You're a fine one sat up there all stinky and bad mannered" comes the reply "I was told to look out for a Bison Rider with the mark of Waha on his brow...Kobal.....Didn't get told he was an arsehole too."


"Ah, y-yes, I am Kobal.  Who are you, and who asked you to find me?  I wasn't expecting to meet anyone here."  Must've been the Snowspear who sent her.  No one else would know of us coming here.  He relaxes his leg and tries not to appear suspicious of her.  Haaro, still watch my gear for me.

Various thoughts cross his mind, but he decides to ignore Ohanzee for now.

The street savvy girl ignores the rest of the Rangers. "Well Kobal your Boss says she's staying at the Garhound mansion and once yer settled to go meet her there. I'm to come with yus and see that yer find somewhere to stay and don't get robbed, murdered, fleeced or become an exotic dancer."

Finished with Kobal she turns to Ohanzee and gives him an example of some of the best Praxian swear words ever heard outside of the bachelor's tent, and with a final rude gesture sashays over to the head of the line where she points at the Rangers, whilst talking to one of the Lunar guards.  He nods and then saunters over

"Right you lot, front of the queue, double time and no larking about....Armour off, bows and long arms bound, unstrung and stowed away. Dismount and follow me, leading your mounts....Don't fecking waste my time if you want to be drinking proper booze in the next 'arf hour...."
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:40, Thu 18 Jan 2018.
Kobal
player, 2013 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 07:56
  • msg #26

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
The street savvy girl ignores the rest of the Rangers. "Well Kobal your Boss says she's staying at the Garhound mansion and once yer settled to go meet her there. I'm to come with yus and see that yer find somewhere to stay and don't get robbed, murdered, fleeced or become an exotic dancer."


Kobal nods.  He isn't sure whether the girl is to be thanked in any way, but she turns away from him quickly.  She didn't bother giving her name anyway.  'Exotic dancer'?  I wonder if she's serious about that...

He does make sure to enjoy One Eye's dressing down of Ohanzee though.

GM:
Finished with Kobal she turns to Ohanzee and gives him an example of some of the best Praxian swear words ever heard outside of the bachelor's tent, and with a final rude gesture sashays over to the head of the line where she points at the Rangers, whilst talking to one of the Lunar guards.  He nods and then saunters over

"Right you lot, front of the queue, double time and no larking about....Armour off, bows and long arms bound, unstrung and stowed away. Dismount and follow me, leading your mounts....Don't fecking waste my time if you want to be drinking proper booze in the next 'arf hour...."


Kobal watches to see what Hoskar does, and follows the Condor's lead, so as not to do any more than he needs to.  Soon, he's leading Black Hoof forward, his armour, lance and javelins strapped tightly to the beast.  He keeps his leathers on, of course.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:57, Thu 18 Jan 2018.
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 529 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 08:12
  • msg #27

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
The street savvy girl ignores the rest of the Rangers. She turns to Ohanzee and gives him an example of some of the best Praxian swear words ever heard outside of the bachelor's tent.


Temush whistles a happy tune.
GM
GM, 10933 posts
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 09:52
  • msg #28

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Led to the front of the queue the Rangers receive dirty looks and cat calls from those still waiting.

"Ah shut up" growls one of the guards "Or you can all bugger off today."

There's another man with the half dozen soldiers on duty, a civilian or some sort of official it's hard to say, though Hoskar knows him for what he is .

"Greetings, it seems that your Patron has paid your entrance taxes and you are free to enter. We've received your names and careers as caravan guards in the employ of the Garhound family.

So a few things first....I can see that you know about no metal armour, pole arms and bows to be used within the city walls. This also applies to the use of magic, unless cast in the environs of your home, temple or upon yourself. Violence will not be tolerated, nor will any other criminal activity."
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2729 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 12:31
  • msg #29

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Smiling formally, with nothing but respect in his honeyed tones, Hoskar inclines his head in a small bow.

Thank you, sir. I am doing my best to let my friends know what to expect. I am probably out of date, though: it is a few seasons since I left.

We are not here wanting trouble, as you are guessing, and the more we know the less accidents we might run into. Would like to find out a few things to keep to the rules, such as whether there's a curfew and if there's anywhere other than Mostali places where being an Enlo might be unwise he gestures vaguely at the Pyre brigade, leaning in as he does so to murmur and where I am best passing on information regarding what the Basmoli are up to out there.

He straightens up again, adding if there is one thing I remember well, it's you get the straight word on the gate.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:37, Thu 18 Jan 2018.
Melock
player, 4477 posts
Bison
Raven
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 13:31
  • msg #30

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Doing his best to copy Hoskar's tone, Melock asks, "Is there a way to get permission to wear metal armour? Also if I buy any, am I allowed to try it one before I buy it? With regards to casting magic, what if one of us needs healing? Is it ok for the others to use magic to heal them? I'm aware that these may seem odd questions to you, but I've never been in such a big city and I don't want to get in trouble."
Amara Brightsky
player, 3551 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 15:43
  • msg #31

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara raised an eyebrow, whispering to Hoskar "I know you said no killing or thieving, but what else is considered a criminal activity"
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3894 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 15:58
  • msg #32

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara Brightsky:
Amara glanced back at Ohanzee with a withering look "You know he'll be Khan one day right? So why antagonize him now? I mean...I have to tolerate you because I'm married to you....but one day? He'll have many braves listening to his every word...and some of them might decide you need to show more respect. Probably using their fists...and you're so old and small you might not last long without showing the proper deference." hse frowned as she thought on Henals words "You mean these people can't just tell I'm rhino clan by looking at me? They might think we're zebra riders?" A look of shock appeared on amara's face, swiftly turning to one of distaste "That's gross."


Ohanzee grins at Amara "Khan of the Bison mob, perhaps, but not of our lot. And maybe I'll be khan of our mob. When you're Khan you Khan and when you not you Khan't and we both are not so we both Khan't at the moment."

"Besides, I'm Raven, he's Thunderbird, it's the way of things."

And then as he gets a dressing down from the one eyed woman he grins "Bet she can handle herself amongst the braves!"

He follows the instructions without questions keen to get in take a look around the stinking cesspit behind the walls.
GM
GM, 10935 posts
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 19:12
  • msg #33

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Smiling formally, with nothing but respect in his honeyed tones, Hoskar inclines his head in a small bow.

Thank you, sir. I am doing my best to let my friends know what to expect. I am probably out of date, though: it is a few seasons since I left.

We are not here wanting trouble, as you are guessing, and the more we know the less accidents we might run into. Would like to find out a few things to keep to the rules, such as whether there's a curfew and if there's anywhere other than Mostali places where being an Enlo might be unwise he gestures vaguely at the Pyre brigade, leaning in as he does so to murmur and where I am best passing on information regarding what the Basmoli are up to out there.


So far the Pyre brigade had remained well hidden between the Rangers' mounts, but now they were very obvious to everyone lining up to get in the gate. A ripple of mutterings soon became loud exclamations of anger and it looks like it might get nasty...

"I'd get them in and to where ever they are going to post haste" announces the official who steps back to allow the Lunar soldiers to lower their spears at what was now turning into a mob.

"In you go, and believe me this has been noted...." He doesn't even bother to reply to the other Rangers, instead indicating that they move quickly in to the city beyond.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2731 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 19:23
  • msg #34

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

With a further bow and muttered thanks, Hoskar starts forwards at once, urging the Rangers onward with an unaccustomed note of command. Well you are hearing the man. Move now.

before that lot go wild

Regardless of whether anyone else moves, he heads through the gates at a brisk pace.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:26, Thu 18 Jan 2018.
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 530 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Thu 18 Jan 2018
at 20:24
  • msg #35

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Temush follows Hoskar gawping up at all the enormous Walls Towers gates, people... but then jogging to catch him up Sounds like we ought to get Red's Guard out of sight for a start off... he tell him "Where to?"
Kobal
player, 2014 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 01:56
  • msg #36

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In the middle of the train of braves, Kobal leads Black Hoof forward promptly, not wanting to hang around the guards and official.  He tries to keep track of One Eye in front of them.  "Girl, do you have some place in mind where we should stay?" he calls out.
Melock
player, 4478 posts
Bison
Raven
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 07:47
  • msg #37

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Melock follows Hoskar, keeping as close as he can because he doesn't want to get separated from him.
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1605 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 08:33
  • msg #38

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Henal smiles at seeing Ohanzee given a dressing down. When they get told  to enter he moves quickly through the gate looking around at the city streets suspiciously. "There are other paths than being a khan.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2732 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 09:00
  • msg #39

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
In the middle of the train of braves, Kobal leads Black Hoof forward promptly, not wanting to hang around the guards and official.  He tries to keep track of One Eye in front of them.  "Girl, do you have some place in mind where we should stay?" he calls out.

Although he has his own ideas Hoskar keeps his own counsel for a while, waiting with interest to see what the girl will suggest.
GM
GM, 10936 posts
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 09:18
  • msg #40

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
In the middle of the train of braves, Kobal leads Black Hoof forward promptly, not wanting to hang around the guards and official.  He tries to keep track of One Eye in front of them.  "Girl, do you have some place in mind where we should stay?" he calls out.

The young lady stops just inside the city, an open area already filled with people going about their morning business, She'd just started out explaining what was what when kobal asked his question

"I can bring you anywhere you want guv, but your boss said you had all that worked out..."

She looks to the Rangers to see where they want to go.

To their left the ground rises towards the walls of the Rubble, the land filled with impressive buildings the size and like of nothing the braves have ever seen. To their right across an open space is an area of tenements, alleys and people. Lots of people. The air is filled with the smell of fish, cooking fires and sweat.

"Out the way!" comes a shout as a score of Sables are led out of the gate behind the braves, the men shepherding them bare chested, rude and dirty.

A small group of locals have gathered to look at the Rangers curious to see nomads and Trollkin together, some laughing, others scowling.

Whilst she waits for a reply the young lady adjusts her scarf, momentarily showing that she has a nasty black eye beneath the rag.

"Yer Boss said one of you was from here, though by looking at youse all I can't see that being likely."

There's a clang as a small rock ricochets off Henal's helmet, thrown by perhaps one of the many scallywags watching the proceedings.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:19, Fri 19 Jan 2018.
Kobal
player, 2015 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 09:27
  • msg #41

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
The young lady stops just inside the city, an open area already filled with people going about their morning business, She'd just started out explaining what was what when kobal asked his question

"I can bring you anywhere you want guv, but your boss said you had all that worked out..."

She looks to the Rangers to see where they want to go.


"Aye, we have a place a mind," he says, shooting a glance at Two-Feather.  "But from what you were saying, I thought you might somewhere in mind too."

GM:
"Out the way!" comes a shout as a score of Sables are led out of the gate behind the braves, the men shepherding them bare chested, rude and dirty.


Kobal can't decide whether he hates Lunars more, or Sables.  Traitors.

GM:
Whilst she waits for a reply the young lady adjusts her scarf, momentarily showing that she has a nasty black eye beneath the rag.


Strange.  Why hasn't she had that healed?  When he catches her attention again, Kobal calls out.  "We could try fixing that eye for you..."

GM:
There's a clang as a small rock ricochets off Henal's helmet, thrown by perhaps one of the many scallywags watching the proceedings.


He looks around, a cantrip on his lips.  But he doesn't spot who threw the stone, and he remembers that no offensive magic is allowed.  "We'd best move on quickly," he mutters to Hoskar.
GM
GM, 10940 posts
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 09:31
  • msg #42

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
Strange.  Why hasn't she had that healed?  When he catches her attention again, Kobal calls out.  "We could try fixing that eye for you..."

"Okay, but don't mean I'll sleep with you mind..."  She lets Kobal heal it with a charm if he is so inclined.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:11, Fri 19 Jan 2018.
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 532 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 10:16
  • msg #43

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
"Out the way!" comes a shout as a score of Sables are led out of the gate behind the braves, the men shepherding them bare chested, rude and dirty.

A small group of locals have gathered to look at the Rangers curious to see nomads and Trollkin together, some laughing, others scowling.

There's a clang as a small rock ricochets off Henal's helmet, thrown by perhaps one of the many scallywags watching the proceedings.


As a pygmy, Temush is keen to get out of the way. But he will not leave the group if they are moving more slowly than he wishes to, and will keep track of where Hoskar is. He will avoid eye-contact with the townsfolk (not that difficult given the height difference).
Kobal
player, 2017 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 10:39
  • msg #44

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
Kobal:
Strange.  Why hasn't she had that healed?  When he catches her attention again, Kobal calls out.  "We could try fixing that eye for you..."

"Okay, but don't mean I'll sleep with you mind..."  She lets Kobal heal it with a charm if he is so inclined.


Kobal bites his tongue on the retort on his lips.  She's still supposed to escort us, and I don't know what Angelika thinks of her.

He quickens his pace to catch up to the Girl, then with a quick touch on her cheek, brings the bruised flesh around her eye back to its natural complexion.  With a tongue like her's, I'm not surprised she had a black eye...
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3895 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 10:52
  • msg #45

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"Hoskar here" says Ohanzee pointing to the brave "Lived in this unnatural place. His mum still does. We'd planned to coral the mounts at her place and she'll not mind taking in the enlo too apparently."

He shrugs "He's our expert on the place and knows where to go so I'm not sure why he's suddenly gone all quiet. Maybe your tongue shocked him into silence, normally can't shut him up!"
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2734 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 12:18
  • msg #46

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar grins broadly at Ohanzee's words.

It is a fair point he observes. I am tending to warble on.

I'm not sure what we are doing with all these mounts of ours - mother doesn't have a corral just some space outside - but I am hoping she is letting us stay with her. Sold as extra free guards for her goods maybe. If we are heading there, best to go left and round the inside of the walls. We are already attracting a crowd without going to the middle of the place and I am not sure what is happening if our Enlo bump into the city's Mostali on the straight route. Then...if I remember right...we go across the square outside the Pavis Temple and onto Sword Street.
Plus you will all be wanting to see the temple close-up I think. One of the impressive sights.

Mind your manners on the way though - it's a good area we would be skirting.

He looks at the girl unless you are knowing a less conspicuous route. Only other one I can think of is straight to the centre first. We're heading for Becx's place next door to Loud Lilina's.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:20, Fri 19 Jan 2018.
GM
GM, 10943 posts
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 12:26
  • msg #47

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
He looks at the girl unless you are knowing a less conspicuous route. Only other one I can think of is straight to the centre first. We're heading for Becx's place next door to Loud Lilina's.


The girl nods at this and leads the way, removing the scarf from her know healed face.

She brings them past several large buildings "Meat storage....Granaries...Citizens of the city receive food from there ...That's the knowledge temple...". 

"This is where all the public buildings are...Temples, shops and government buildings....Yeah, probably too much for you bumpkins to take in?"

Immediately ahead of the nomads is a collection of impressive stone and timber buildings, their walls covered with painted frescoes, depicting foreign gods and goddesses. The air is filled with spirits and the buildings practically hum with magic. The courtyard before them is filled with the smoke of incense and people standing around in small groups, deep in discussion.

"That's the Wind temple...Ernalda's temple and behind is the Argan Argar temple...Probably the best place for your Enlo slaves to stay to be honest."

"We'll sneak through there, down Holy Street and cross over Parade Way until we get to Sword Street and yer man Hoskar's mum's gaff. She's a busy lady that one."
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:29, Fri 19 Jan 2018.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2737 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 13:26
  • msg #48

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar's grin stays broad. Bumpkins. I'll have to remember that one for later use.

You may well be right about the Enlo he replies cheerily but they're not mine to command. They're hers he gestures at Amara.

And yes, you are definitely thinking right about mother. Becx is keeping busy with her Two Hands and no mistake. Don't suppose you know what she is up to recently?

His brow furrows a moment. Knowledge temple. That reminds me. The sages owe me. Now where did I stash that note of credit... But only for a moment before clearing as he continues to scan around for trouble, not relying on others to be alert in the face of these unaccustomed surroundings.
GM
GM, 10945 posts
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 14:41
  • msg #49

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar is on familiar ground now as he and his friends push past other pedestrians, traders and hawkers to get to his mum's gaff. Wooden shutters are being removed from shop fronts, for the most part ground floor spaces with housing on the floors above. Their tenants slowly moving down on to the streets either looking for breakfast, heading to work or generally hustling for something.

As they cross one large street the braves spy a many stepped building at it's end, which Hoskar informs is the temple for the city's god.

Several street thugs from a local gang traipse along for a while but they recognise Hoskar and don't cause any trouble, even giving the brave a cheeky wave and a local "Wotcha" in greeting.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2738 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 16:00
  • msg #50

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Having acknowledged the gang with a florid and highly overplayed bow in reply to their greeting, to much tittering from them, Hoskar stays focused on their route.

Local lads. Known as the Deadheads he informs the Rangers. Home ground. Well, this home anyway he remarks happily. Mother's place soon and a bar right next door. Handy once we are working some small things like stabling out.

Oh, and something else that is...er...convenient. If you need to relieve yourselves, he winks like if you've just met old Repe Sorsa himself, look out for buckets. Last time I am here, there is one just between Lilina's and mum's place. Fullers collect it, you know. They need a lot for dyeing cloth.

A keen observer would note that he is beginning to compose himself and exert some control over his face; maybe to ready himself for a family meeting.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:30, Fri 19 Jan 2018.
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 533 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 16:26
  • msg #51

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
A keen observer would note that he is beginning to compose himself and exert some control over his face; maybe to ready himself for a family meeting.


Temush pats Hoskar on the shoulder (he stretched) She'll, be pleased to see you. He says, eyes straying to the beasts and enlo, And even if she's not, there can still be a day when she will be.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2739 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 16:35
  • msg #52

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In reply to Temush Blinking-cloud (msg # 51):

Pausing to moisten his lips before speaking again, Hoskar's lopsided smile re-emerges a moment.

Oh I'm not doubting she is pleased to see me he observes. Trouble is, she has a mind like a new-sharpened dagger and two keen eyes for the main chance. I am loving her like anything, but bargaining in a bunch of unexpected guests might be an interesting experience.
Melock
player, 4480 posts
Bison
Raven
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 17:50
  • msg #53

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Having kept quiet while following Hoskar closely, Melock nods at the gang as well and asks Hoskar, "Those deadheads, are they friendly? I bet they would be good guides around the town." He glances back at Stinky, "What about if one of our mounts needs to relieve themselves on the street?"
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3896 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 18:25
  • msg #54

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:

Oh, and something else that is...er...convenient. If you need to relieve yourselves, he winks like if you've just met old Repe Sorsa himself, look out for buckets. Last time I am here, there is one just between Lilina's and mum's place. Fullers collect it, you know. They need a lot for dyeing cloth.
ready himself for a family meeting.

Ohanzee looks quizzically at Hoskar and then back towards the well they passed noting the buckets there. "So if you see a bucket you can piss in it?"

"These town folk are disgusting pissing in the vessels they fetch water in, might as well piss down the watering hole!"
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2741 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Fri 19 Jan 2018
at 21:26
  • msg #55

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar breathes deeply. Twice. He looks back and forth between Melock and Ohanzee with an expression somewhere between confusion and exasperation before relapsing back to a good-humoured smile as he takes his Raven comrades to one side.

Okay. I am not clear enough.

First, if a bucket looks as if it is for drawing water or drinking from do not - I repeat do not - piss in it.
Second, if and only if a bucket is half full of piss or already stinks of piss, piss in it.
Third, Melock, if you are wanting to catch Stinky's piss in your hands or hat and dump it in a fuller's bucket, go ahead. Just do not expect me to shake your hand afterwards. As for the Deadheads, it depends if they take to you.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:27, Fri 19 Jan 2018.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3552 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Sat 20 Jan 2018
at 00:16
  • msg #56

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara paused looking at the girl closely, stifling some anger that someone felt the need to lift a hand towards a child. "Hmmm...who did that to you?" She paid no attention to where they were going.
GM
GM, 10946 posts
Sat 20 Jan 2018
at 08:50
  • msg #57

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara Brightsky:
Amara paused looking at the girl closely, stifling some anger that someone felt the need to lift a hand towards a child. "Hmmm...who did that to you?" She paid no attention to where they were going.

"Streetfight...What's it to youse eh?" comes back the sassy reply "I don't need saving if that's yer thing."
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3897 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Sat 20 Jan 2018
at 09:29
  • msg #58

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hoskar breathes deeply. Twice. He looks back and forth between Melock and Ohanzee with an expression somewhere between confusion and exasperation before relapsing back to a good-humoured smile as he takes his Raven comrades to one side.

Okay. I am not clear enough.

First, if a bucket looks as if it is for drawing water or drinking from do not - I repeat do not - piss in it.
Second, if and only if a bucket is half full of piss or already stinks of piss, piss in it.
Third, Melock, if you are wanting to catch Stinky's piss in your hands or hat and dump it in a fuller's bucket, go ahead. Just do not expect me to shake your hand afterwards. As for the Deadheads, it depends if they take to you.

<Ohanzee</b> nods in understanding "Well why didn't you say that in the first place. If you're meant to be the teacher here then don't given half a lesson."

"I mean, by your other warnings I should follow your lessons to the letter but follow that one to the letter and I'd likely have pissed in someone's drinking bucket. Be better following my own common sense than your lessons if you keep leaving chunks out."

Then using his own common sense he speaks to the one formerly known as One Eye "Oi. What's your name, mine's Ohanzee though folk use Blue Arm a
a lot?"

"It'd make sense would it to leave the enlo at the Argan Argar temple first if that's the best place, so we don't have to back and forward?"
GM
GM, 10947 posts
Sat 20 Jan 2018
at 09:57
  • msg #59

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee Shappa:
Then using his own common sense he speaks to the one formerly known as One Eye "Oi. What's your name, mine's Ohanzee though folk use Blue Arm a
a lot?"

"It'd make sense would it to leave the enlo at the Argan Argar temple first if that's the best place, so we don't have to back and forward?"

"It's mind yer own business, s'what it is....Well we passed the Dark One's temple a street or two back and yer one's mum's place is round the next corner, so tough shit, you can sort yer troll business out yerself."

And she's right for the next street is Blue street. Locals begin to say hello to Hoskar, neighbours, street touts and traders. He can spy the house, outside of which are a dozen sable riders in Lunar uniforms.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3898 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Sat 20 Jan 2018
at 15:10
  • msg #60

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee laughs replying "Okay Mind Yer Own Business." and then to no one in particular, in fact from the quieter tone more talking to himself "Strange name,  these are strange folk. Can't imagine what her parents were thinking." quizzical look crosses his face "Then again I'm assuming too much, perhaps not their naming."
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2742 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Sun 21 Jan 2018
at 15:07
  • msg #61

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar's expression darkens a moment at Ohanzee's reproof. It helps if you are not spending your life searching for loopholes he mutters darkly into his scrubby beard. Yet the darkness is but momentary, followed by an airy I am not used to knowing more about a place than my companions. This is a genuine new experience. Keep asking if what I say is seeming odd..

He exchanges greetings and waves with a passer-by or two, then adds more generally and over there, we see the home of one Sitzmag, in charge of a Sable regiment. Careful with your manners here.

Undeterred by the mounted Sables, although wearing a somewhat embarrassed expression with his head lowered, he heads for Becx's door with the intent of giving it a vigorous knock followed by a familial entrance.
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 535 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Sun 21 Jan 2018
at 16:07
  • msg #62

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hoskar's expression darkens a moment at Ohanzee's reproof. It helps if you are not spending your life searching for loopholes he mutters darkly into his scrubby beard. Yet the darkness is but momentary, followed by an airy I am not used to knowing more about a place than my companions. This is a genuine new experience. Keep asking if what I say is seeming odd..

These Deadheads, this is your clan in the Pavis Tribe? Do we need to meet the Khan if we aim to stay in your Ma's house?
GM
GM, 10948 posts
Sun 21 Jan 2018
at 16:56
  • msg #63

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Lunar soldiers all turn to stare as the nomads try and squeeze their way past into the small open courtyard between the two wings of Hoskar's mum's gaff.

It's a one storey affair, well secured with a door immediately in front of them all. The courtyard just about holds the small group of braves and their mounts.

As Hoskar raps on the door, their young female guide gives a cheery wave, a loud "fuck you" at the Lunar soldiers and vanishes off down the road at a run.

Knock...Knock...Knock...
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2743 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 08:42
  • msg #64

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

A mite earlier

Temush Blinking-cloud:
Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hoskar's expression darkens a moment at Ohanzee's reproof. It helps if you are not spending your life searching for loopholes he mutters darkly into his scrubby beard. Yet the darkness is but momentary, followed by an airy I am not used to knowing more about a place than my companions. This is a genuine new experience. Keep asking if what I say is seeming odd..

These Deadheads, this is your clan in the Pavis Tribe? Do we need to meet the Khan if we aim to stay in your Ma's house?


Although keen to reach his mum's door, Hoskar is suddenly very mindful of his need to explain things. Not a tribe, the Deadheads: just a bunch of lads. Not exactly criminals, but wild and none too well off. Alleyway chases after causing mischief with the law on their heels and so on. Think Melock but without his opportunities. No khans in here, although there are a lot of leaders: Lunars, Sunny Boys, Pavis Cult, Garhounds and so on. When you are meeting people, wait to be hearing some of their opinions before deciding how to say yours.

Back in the present

Hoskar gives the door a firm, smooth push; calling out Mother? Greetings! it's your Two-Foot and his profits.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3899 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 10:04
  • msg #65

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee laughs "So that the way to properly address the Lunars with deserved respect in this place Hoskar?" add the guide vanishes.
GM
GM, 10952 posts
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 11:28
  • msg #66

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
As Hoskar raps on the door, their young female guide gives a cheery wave, a loud "fuck you" at the Lunar soldiers and vanishes off down the road at a run.

The insult barely gets the soldiers' attention, the warriors looking as if they're used to occasional outbursts from the locals. Suddenly there's a commotion at the doorway to the other building and an important looking officer walks out, armour shining and in the company of foreign spirits.

He's atop his mount, a pure black Sable, in one fluid motion and as one the small squadron of cavalry moves off.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2744 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 11:51
  • msg #67

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee Shappa:
Ohanzee laughs "So that the way to properly address the Lunars with deserved respect in this place Hoskar?" add the guide vanishes.

You can safely use your common sense on that one. So no murmurs Hoskar before the officer emerges. At which point he takes a deep breath and almost freezes, as if fighting down an old impulse, before returning his attention to Becx's door.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3900 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 12:25
  • msg #68

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee's Raven nature pushes forward again as he watches the riders depart <"Nice looking beast" leaves his lips, but Think of the rush, the kudos to raid that beast! rattles around his head unsaid.

He turns to Hoskar again "You not allowed in then, can't just open up?"
Grundar
Player, 92 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 12:31
  • msg #69

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hoskar gives the door a firm, smooth push; calling out Mother? Greetings! it's your Two-Foot and his profits.


Hoskar's shove coincides with a shout from within,

Woah, hold your horses, I'm coming, I'm coming, don't just come ****ing barging in! She's not here at the moment, but I'm in ch... The exclamation ends abruptly with the crunching impact of door and bone as it's forward motion similarly comes to a sudden halt.

The is the scuffling noise of someone within getting back to their feet. Finally the door opens, revealing a gloomy interior, ...I'm in charge and you'd better have a good deal for me, or at least good news. The voice belongs to a dark haired young man, who is busily brushing the earthy dust from his clothing with his right hand, whilst rubbing his reddened nose with the other. He looks annoyed, then puzzled, and then surprised, Hoskar? It is Hoskar isn't it? This is the moment when it might dawn on those outside that he too is dressed as a Praxian brave...
This message was last edited by the player at 12:37, Mon 22 Jan 2018.
GM
GM, 10953 posts
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 13:12
  • msg #70

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The figure is instantly recognisable to those Rangers that are members of the Skywatchers for it is one of their own: Grundar, a  brave of their clan and one very obviously a follower of Raven....
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:53, Mon 22 Jan 2018.
Melock
player, 4482 posts
Bison
Raven
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 13:38
  • msg #71

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Melock watches the sable riding guards head off with a shake of his head. When he hears a reply to Hoskars knocking he turns to see who appears, he can't help but chuckle when he works out why they're dusting themself off. "Well done Hoskar, always making a good first impression."
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2746 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 14:21
  • msg #72

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar's eyebrows rise so far they almost disappear into his hairline as his habitual lopsided grin spreads right the way across his face.

Horn and hide! he warbles happily. Grundar? Sorry about that. You okay? I have some healing if not.

Well of all the people I am not expecting to be right behind mother's door.

So, are you letting in the family's Son and Heir plus friends of the clan, or are we standing on the step all morning?

He extends a hand towards Grundar in greeting.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3553 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 14:23
  • msg #73

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara looked a little concerned "Your Mom trades with sables?"
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3902 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 17:21
  • msg #74

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"First impression? Pha! Have to roll back a lot of time to get a chance of that with this brave!" Ohanzee says to Melock

"Grundar, never thought I'd run into you in this lace."
Melock
player, 4485 posts
Bison
Raven
Mon 22 Jan 2018
at 18:09
  • msg #75

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara Brightsky:
Amara looked a little concerned "Your Mom trades with sables?"


"Considering what we've just done to try to rescue a sable and what we're planning to do to rescue her, especially when you take in to account who her mum is, I don't think we can judge Hoskar's mum, do you?"

Ohanzee:
"First impression? Pha! Have to roll back a lot of time to get a chance of that with this brave!" Ohanzee says to Melock

"Grundar, never thought I'd run into you in this place."


"So an old friend then? I'm guessing your name is Grundar then" He grins at Grundar, "and a follower of Raven. I'm Melock."
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1606 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 01:04
  • msg #76

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Earlier
GM:
A small group of locals have gathered to look at the Rangers curious to see nomads and Trollkin together, some laughing, others scowling.

Whilst she waits for a reply the young lady adjusts her scarf, momentarily showing that she has a nasty black eye beneath the rag.

"Yer Boss said one of you was from here, though by looking at youse all I can't see that being likely."

There's a clang as a small rock ricochets off Henal's helmet, thrown by perhaps one of the many scallywags watching the proceedings.

Henal looks around glowering looking ready to cast a spell before he remembers the warnings and keeps a sullen silence while the party progresses through the streets.

His scowl finally lifts when he hears Hoskar put Melock right about the buckets. "You can get your water out of where you piss if you want but I'll get my own."

Now
Henal looks over at Grundar, then smiles.
Hello, I am Henal. Good to meet a friend of Hoskars in this strange place.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:32, Tue 23 Jan 2018.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3556 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 03:17
  • msg #77

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara looked at Melock as if he were mad, nothing betraying her amusement beyond a glint in her eye "Of course we can."

Her eyes widened as Grundar appeared "Grundar? I...I guess my request was heard." she looked pleased with herself as she smiled in greeting.
Grundar
Player, 97 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 08:28
  • msg #78

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Grundar turns to the crowd at the door and opens his arms in a gesture of greeting, Welcome friends old and new to Pavis! You'll find it a bewildering place to start with, but the pickings are rich if you persevere. I wonder if it might be wise for us to get some of the 'herd' that travels with you stabled up somewhere. There's plenty of time to attract attention, but now before you've established yourselves might not be it. I'm sure we can find somewhere in the Farmers'Quarter. Perhaps my friends in the Argan Argar Temple could look after your enlo companion too. Once that's done we can get some food and you can tell me what brings you here.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:04, Tue 23 Jan 2018.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2751 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 11:53
  • msg #79

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In reply to Grundar (msg # 78):

Nodding in approval, Hoskar chimes in. Think we should be able to get the herd sorted out with Mother's Beasts. Great big corral they have, and reputable too. Mother does have dealings with Salty now and then, but he is reputed to skimp on the feed, and he's too small-scale for this lot.

And then, food and booze and stories, maybe. I am missing the bisonburgers for one. I am also itching to hear what is taking mother away, and whether we can save some clacks camping out in a storeroom the last with a speculative look at Grundar.

He starts looking around, seeking through faces for anyone he recognises - some lad maybe - who could be slipped a few clacks to get the Eirithan stables to send round for the mounts and give chance for the Rangers unpack their possessions.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3557 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 16:30
  • msg #80

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara looked around the building wondering why anyone might want to live in the monstrosity. She nodded to the Pyre brigade indicating she wished to speak to them. "Your presence here isn't welcome by many. It might be best if you take refuge in the Argan Argor temple. Please see if you can find out any information about where the coward that kidnapped Delenda might be hiding. Or indeed anything relating to him in general."
Melock
player, 4487 posts
Bison
Raven
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 18:03
  • msg #81

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara Brightsky:
Amara looked at Melock as if he were mad, nothing betraying her amusement beyond a glint in her eye "Of course we can."


He shrugs off her look and when he hears her words to the Pyre brigade, "Does that apply to me as well?" Melock wonders up to Hoskar, "So where can we stash our gear before we find a place for out mounts to stay?"
GM
GM, 10964 posts
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 18:29
  • msg #82

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

A local kid speeds off, clutching his clacks to sort out stabling, just as an old geezer arrives to set up shop in the courtyard or at least try to.

"What the feck are youse lot doing here? Becx will go mad" he says, hollering at the nomads standing in the way...GRUNDAAAAAR!....Oh Master Hoskar, well I never."

It's Grandpa Jax, the old settler who's the eyes and ears of the place during daylight hours, keeping watch on the place for Becx.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2752 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 18:38
  • msg #83

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

 Hoskar pauses to answer Melock. It is all depending on where we sleep to some extent. Leave it indoors here and it is safe as anywhere in this man's town but maybe mother is charging you rent. Not me, of course, but you. Although our information on trading conditions south and of a certain bent official may be worth the rent. So I am dropping our tea here to be as safe as her own. Unless Grundar is telling me I am unwelcome, that is.

Or take your chance in lodgings.

You are likely to want to cultivate the deadheads if you seek mischief. Actually, should rephrase. Because you are Melock.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:43, Tue 23 Jan 2018.
Melock
player, 4488 posts
Bison
Raven
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 19:28
  • msg #84

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In reply to Hoskar Two-Feather (msg # 83):

He grins, "You know me well, but there are serious things for me to do before I can have any fun."
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1608 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 20:42
  • msg #85

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Henal grimaces and replies to Hoskar. "Better to leave my stuff here then as kin is kin, even if they come and live with walls around them, better than some total stranger townie".
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 539 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Tue 23 Jan 2018
at 21:03
  • msg #86

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Henal Longgrass:
Henal grimaces and replies to Hoskar. "Better to leave my stuff here then as kin is kin, even if they come and live with walls around them, better than some total stranger townie".

Temush nods "I see things the same way as Henal. I brought some trade goods too. Your Ma may have some thoughts on who in Pavis might buy such things"
Kobal
player, 2021 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 02:38
  • msg #87

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
As Hoskar raps on the door, their young female guide gives a cheery wave, a loud "fuck you" at the Lunar soldiers and vanishes off down the road at a run.


It's been a bewildering walk to this door, with all the strange and large buildings, sights, and talk of buckets for piss.

As such, Kobal can do nothing but watch as Sharptongue disappears around a corner.  Uh, was she supposed to take us to Garhound mansion to meet with Angelika...?  I hope Hoskar knows the building...

Grundar:
Grundar turns to the crowd at the door and opens his arms in a gesture of greeting, Welcome friends old and new to Pavis! You'll find it a bewildering place to start with, but the pickings are rich if you persevere.


Waiting for the right moment after Grundar has caught up with the Sky Watchers, Kobal introduces himself.  "I am Kobal, son of Colnar Three Steps of the Prairie Thunder bison clan.  Apart from the Sky Watchers in our party, most of us are Prairie Thunder (despite the zebras you might see).  Though Temush here," he gestures to the short brave, "is an ostrich rider.  I hope the pickings here are worth the smell, the Moon worshippers, and not roaming the lands."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:41, Wed 24 Jan 2018.
GM
GM, 10966 posts
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 07:23
  • msg #88

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

An hour later we find the Rangers unpacked, their mounts stabled and sitting down to a much needed breakfast in the courtyard. The Enlo are eating too and being pretty noisy about it...

Hoskar has learned that his mother has been gone a few days. Her exact location is unsure but Grundar suspects that it is in the Rubble. It is where she went a few weeks ago, returning dirty, tired and rather secretive.
Grundar
Player, 99 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 08:59
  • msg #89

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hoskar pauses to answer Melock. It is all depending on where we sleep to some extent. Leave it indoors here and it is safe as anywhere in this man's town but maybe mother is charging you rent. Not me, of course, but you. Although our information on trading conditions south and of a certain bent official may be worth the rent. So I am dropping our tea here to be as safe as her own. Unless Grundar is telling me I am unwelcome, that is.

Or take your chance in lodgings.


Grundar acknowledges the greetings of all as well as Hoskar
Of course you are welcome! You all are. It may be cramped but you are free to share the room that is mine for now. It will be good to catch up on all the news, although I have begun to get accustomed to the city, I still yearn for the plains and family.

quote:
You are likely to want to cultivate the deadheads if you seek mischief. Actually, should rephrase. Because you are Melock.


The Deadheads? You've met my friends then? Excellent! I have adopted them whilst being here, a move which has been mutually beneficial - although it does mean I'm having to keep my head down for a little while. This last statement Grundar accompanies with a knowing wink to Medlock
GM
GM, 10967 posts
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 10:17
  • msg #90

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Whilst they talk, a large group of local children have congregated to watch the Rangers. Too small to be in a gang, they nevertheless  look streetwise and not particularly friendly

"You smell" says one to Kobal, another points at Amara and begins to laugh, which soon spreads to all the children which leads to an avalanche of insults and unpleasantries.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2754 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 11:18
  • msg #91

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In the throes of moving to engage Jax into the conversation having greeted him warmly on his arrival maybe he knows where mother is, Hoskar notes the arrival of the kids. Later: you can do without the grief from this he mutters to the vendor as he hastens to be seen part of the Rangers group.

We are seeing the Deadheads on the way in he observes to Grundar, accentuating the gang's name as if wanting to be overheard by the urchins. Good lads, though I'd not want the watch to be catching me with them.

As for stories, we have one or two that will be blowing your hat off.

He pauses in thought a moment, then remarks to the empty air; with a lofty smile from which humour is almost wholly lacking; The blessing of a bad smell is that you can wash it off at will. The curse of a bad attitude is that you are lumbered with it for what is often a shortened life.
GM
GM, 10969 posts
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 11:26
  • msg #92

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

At this the kids laugh even more, with one of them making  talking movements with their hands and going "Blah, blah, blah."

Another one of them adds "He's threatening us ain't he. With a short life."
Grundar
Player, 100 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 12:22
  • msg #93

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
We are seeing the Deadheads on the way in he observes to Grundar, accentuating the gang's name as if wanting to be overheard by the urchins. Good lads, though I'd not want the watch to be catching me with them.

Good lads indeed - been working hard to whip them into shape. As for the watch, I won't fear too much, the chances of that blundering lot catching a nimble brave are almost non-existent!

Grundar now turns to the street kids as they trad insults with Hoskar, Now, don't you go getting my brother here in a tiz, trading insults. That's a waste of hot air for both of you. I know what you want, you want some grub don't you. Let's see if Grandpa has any spare going.... He hopes that these scruffy urchins might be useful to them as eyes on the streets, and potential Deadheads later on. Better to have them on side than used against them.
GM
GM, 10970 posts
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 12:52
  • msg #94

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Grundar:
Grundar now turns to the street kids as they trad insults with Hoskar, Now, don't you go getting my brother here in a tiz, trading insults. That's a waste of hot air for both of you. I know what you want, you want some grub don't you. Let's see if Grandpa has any spare going.... He hopes that these scruffy urchins might be useful to them as eyes on the streets, and potential Deadheads later on. Better to have them on side than used against them.

"I wouldn't waste your time" says Grandpa, looking at the ten or so kids with a tired look. "Little buggers are bored and they've no love for you nomads. Plenty of 'em know som one killed by one of your lot.

"Go orn get outta here" yells the old geezer "I know your parents, so scatter before I tell 'em you been bothering me..."

And with that they run off, vanishing into various buildings and alleyways.
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1609 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 13:58
  • msg #95

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Henal looks at the old man with more respect. "So even in the cities clans still matter with your parents keeping you in line." He pauses then asks "Did we pass the temple of the greybeards on our way here as I will have some business with them?".
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 541 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 14:04
  • msg #96

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
An hour later we find the Rangers unpacked, their mounts stabled and sitting down to a much needed breakfast in the courtyard. The Enlo are eating too and being pretty noisy about it...

Hoskar has learned that his mother has been gone a few days. Her exact location is unsure but Grundar suspects that it is in the Rubble. It is where she went a few weeks ago, returning dirty, tired and rather secretive.

Temush approaches Kobal "Are we set to go find the Snowspear at this Garhound gaff now?" he asks. "I dare say Hoskar knows where it is"
Melock
player, 4489 posts
Bison
Raven
Wed 24 Jan 2018
at 18:17
  • msg #97

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Grundar:
Grundar acknowledges the greetings of all as well as Hoskar
Of course you are welcome! You all are. It may be cramped but you are free to share the room that is mine for now. It will be good to catch up on all the news, although I have begun to get accustomed to the city, I still yearn for the plains and family.

The Deadheads? You've met my friends then? Excellent! I have adopted them whilst being here, a move which has been mutually beneficial - although it does mean I'm having to keep my head down for a little while. This last statement Grundar accompanies with a knowing wink to Melock


"Thank you for sharing your tent, I mean room. It can't be as bad as staying in the bachelors tent." Melock's eyes gleam in delight when he hears that Grundar is friends with the Deadheads, "I wouldn't mind meeting them, as there's some things you or they might be able to help me with."
Kobal
player, 2023 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 01:56
  • msg #98

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
Whilst they talk, a large group of local children have congregated to watch the Rangers. Too small to be in a gang, they nevertheless  look streetwise and not particularly friendly

"You smell" says one to Kobal, another points at Amara and begins to laugh, which soon spreads to all the children which leads to an avalanche of insults and unpleasantries.


Kobal is about to retort with an insult, but he stops at the last moment and holds his tongue, turning away from the kids to ignore them.  They are just children.  I am an adult now.  Besides, he's in a strange place and these children's tone doesn't seem playful like that of the children back at amongst the clans.

Temush Blinking-cloud:
Temush approaches Kobal "Are we set to go find the Snowspear at this Garhound gaff now?" he asks. "I dare say Hoskar knows where it is"


"Yes, we should go report to her now that we've settled in.  Just as soon as I've finished my breakfast.  I hope Hoskar knows the way, or that this Grundar can help.  That girl ran off even before the door opened here."  He pauses a moment.  "Every child we've met here seems to have a foul mouth."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:17, Thu 25 Jan 2018.
Kobal
player, 2024 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 07:23
  • msg #99

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal leans across the table and says to Brightsky, "Amara, maybe we should leave the trollkin at the troll temple before going to see Angelika.  We seem to attract enough attention as it is, without a mob of trollkin tagging along."
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2756 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 12:43
  • msg #100

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

I am definitely able to find the knowledge temple observes Hoskar. Got some business with Lhankor Mhy myself cashing in their credit from back at the Painted Wall. If I can get to them past the Irrippi Ontors. Think the troll temple's close by there - the girl pointed it out didn't she? I agree it makes sense to drop the Enlo off there by the looks of the reactions they are getting, but maybe that's just me and Kobal

He returns to the main business, adding Garhounds? Well I know which row they're on: edge of the rich area. If we drop off the Enlo, we are almost retracing our way in here. It is possible I am needing to ask after the precise door for the Garhound manor though. Not like they are putting out a signboard, and I am too small beans to be on their guest list.

He smiles impishly and then, unless the Lady Snowspear is giving us work or you are getting yourself barred, Grundar, the beer at Lilina's is far from poisonous and right next door to here for curfew. He appears to go misty-eyed for a moment at the thought of the local brew.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:44, Thu 25 Jan 2018.
Melock
player, 4493 posts
Bison
Raven
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 13:23
  • msg #101

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"Sounds good to me." he scratches the scars on his neck nervously, "Also I was thinking it would be a good idea to let the unicorn riders know about the death of the one we met. They have a temple in the rubble, so we could go there as a group, before we all do our own thing." Melock looks hopefully at the others, "It might be a way of making new friends."
Grundar
Player, 101 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 14:11
  • msg #102

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Melock:
Melock's eyes gleam in delight when he hears that Grundar is friends with the Deadheads, "I wouldn't mind meeting them, as there's some things you or they might be able to help me with."

What sort of things do you have in mind? They specialise in all sorts of mischief... just the other day with their help I cleaned out at Goldfang's with my fighting fish! Taught them never to underestimate a brave. He beams, proud of his recent exploits, before adding, Probably shouldn't go back for a while. For that matter, probably best you don't mention it either.

Hearing Hoskar's comments, he turns and addresses him as well, I should be ok in Lilina's though, and can certainly show you to the Troll Temple, got friends there too, but that's another story.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3560 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 15:52
  • msg #103

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara raised an eyebrow "I've already talked to them about it. Also to find information on the troll that took Delenda. I'm a little surprised they chose to stay here and eat with us."

OOC: msg 80
GM
GM, 10976 posts
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 17:04
  • msg #104

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara Brightsky:
Amara raised an eyebrow "I've already talked to them about it. Also to find information on the troll that took Delenda. I'm a little surprised they chose to stay here and eat with us."

OOC: msg 80

"Can't walk through town by ourselves, that's why" answers Gruhgb. "No one likes Uz as we right royally buggered them up in the past."
Amara Brightsky
player, 3561 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 17:14
  • msg #105

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"I'll walk through town with you." Amara said "We've never been here before. Is there anything else we should know about Uz here?"
Gruhgb
NPC, 1 post
Dark Troll Enlo
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 17:58
  • msg #106

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara Brightsky:
"I'll walk through town with you." Amara said "We've never been here before. Is there anything else we should know about Uz here?"


"They're the only folk you can trust. Honest Beetle."
Melock
player, 4495 posts
Bison
Raven
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 18:03
  • msg #107

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Grundar:
What sort of things do you have in mind? They specialise in all sorts of mischief... just the other day with their help I cleaned out at Goldfang's with my fighting fish! Taught them never to underestimate a brave. He beams, proud of his recent exploits, before adding, Probably shouldn't go back for a while. For that matter, probably best you don't mention it either.


Looking round at the other Rangers, he lowers his voice, "When there's less people around. Could also do with getting some clothes so I don't look like a nomad, might make walking around town easier." A look of confusion crosses his face, "Did you say fighting fish?"
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3904 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Thu 25 Jan 2018
at 22:38
  • msg #108

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee snorts "Take more than clothes to make you look like one of them and you stink of Bison, they'd smell you coming. All that fur."

"Still, not a bad idea."

He looks to Grundar "We were in Corflu recently. Pretty fine foreign lass there, daughter of one of their Khans. Nice looking for a Lunar anyway."

"She and the priestess had several of our people about them, converts. Any other Sky Watchers in this place?"
GM
GM, 10978 posts
Fri 26 Jan 2018
at 08:30
  • msg #109

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Making a move

The Rangers decide to leave Hoskar's mums place and head to the Argan Argar temple to drop of the Enlos, continuing with conversations whilst on the go.

With Hoskar and Grundar in the lead the braves head up Blue street, following it to it's end at the main square of the city. On their way they pass Jareen's inn, Nan's breadbox and the All Riders stable, before stopping briefly next to the Market administration buildings and taking in the large open space before them. To their immediate left is a store which Hoskar explains is Honest Kolli's Artifacts and Appraisals, a place to find out the secrets of magical artefacts and other loot of interest.

The buildings facing onto the square seem to be shops on the whole, selling various things, including weapons and one run by a Bison rider making leather gear. On one corner is an impressive building, the city's largest hostelry the Bristle Inn and close to that is one of the city's many wells.

Folk drift across the space, tradesmen carrying trays of freshly cooked fowls,rabbits, or breads, making their way across town to deliver to homes and businesses. Servants jostle with guildsman, who make way for priests or civil administrators, some carried in covered palanquins by big, meaty bearers. There are nomads too in small numbers, gawking up at the buildings,looks of either awe or distaste on their tanned faces. And through it all stroll the ever present Lunars, soldiers, civil servants and members of the various temples which now dot the city.

One such group pushes past the Rangers, several burly bodyguards making way for their ward, someone important hidden behind the palanquin's silk curtains. For the briefest moment, heavily kohled eyes and arms covered with silver can be glimpsed before they pass, leaving a trail of perfume in its wake.

The main Temple block can be seen, it's heavily frescoed walls portraying the gods within... Familiars, those that accompany the braves, mention the many spirits that are nearby. A shadowy alley behind the Issaries temple leads to the Argan Argar temple, whilst the Knowledge temple is a mere two minute walk past it.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2757 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Fri 26 Jan 2018
at 09:37
  • msg #110

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Early on the journey; as the group passes a large, square building to their left facing into Holy Street; Hoskar also points out the sizeable Ulerian temple with a smirk while studiously looking at no-one in particular. It is seeming that size does matter in the odd relationship he chortles and if a marriage is not going well, they are known to help. In one sense, at least.

As they approach the temples must check in with Issaries sometime soon as well, he assumes that Argan Argar will be the group's first call. Sorry there he says to the Enlo, but I am thinking you are best off away from us for now. I misdoubt the greybeards are relishing extra company. They are a secretive bunch sometimes, but well clever.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:38, Fri 26 Jan 2018.
GM
GM, 10980 posts
Fri 26 Jan 2018
at 09:56
  • msg #111

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Those going to the Argan Argar temple pass through the permanently dark alleyway behind the Issaries Temple and find themselves in yet another narrow lane. To one side is the Air temple, two doorways guarded by several warriors, the men and women standing up straight at the appearance of so many people....and Enlo.

The Orlanthi watch as the Rangers, led by Grundar, approach the Darkness temple's entrance, it's open doorway impenetrable by eyes, thanks to the permanent Darkwall cast on it's lintel. From within comes odd smells and the sounds of a drum, deep within the earth.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3905 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Fri 26 Jan 2018
at 13:00
  • msg #112

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee pauses before the Orlanthi temple doors as the others continue "Greetings, guardian. I come as a friend." he says to the closest guard.
GM
GM, 10981 posts
Fri 26 Jan 2018
at 14:05
  • msg #113

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee Shappa:
Ohanzee pauses before the Orlanthi temple doors as the others continue "Greetings, guardian. I come as a friend." he says to the closest guard.

The guard gives Ohanzee a long stare and then his stern look changes in to a genuine smile "Welcome brother. You are welcome, but know this, these are dark times and our temple is becalmed by the occupiers. Be careful who you trust, and understand the worship of our god is not allowed openly."
Grundar
Player, 103 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Fri 26 Jan 2018
at 14:31
  • msg #114

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Earlier
Melock:
Looking round at the other Rangers, he lowers his voice, "When there's less people around. Could also do with getting some clothes so I don't look like a nomad, might make walking around town easier." A look of confusion crosses his face, "Did you say fighting fish?"


I did! You should have seen him, he may have been small and insignificant looking, but when he started to spin, no one could touch him. Ferocious. He smiles a satisfied smile, basking once again in beating the odds. I'll tell you more later, again, when there's less people around

*****
Ohanzee Shappa:
He looks to Grundar "We were in Corflu recently. Pretty fine foreign lass there, daughter of one of their Khans. Nice looking for a Lunar anyway."

"She and the priestess had several of our people about them, converts. Any other Sky Watchers in this place?"


Grundar responses with an edge to his voice, Lunar's are not to my taste, no matter how they look, before relaxing a bit as for Sky Watchers, not that I'm aware of...

*****
Present

As they approach the Argan Argar Temple, Grundar turns to the rest of the party,

Perhaps it might be better if I go first and explain what's going on rather than all of us turning up together in one rowdy group? I've got to know a couple of the priests here, Bartar and Organdi. I'm sure they'll welcome the Enlo if they know they're with me.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 15:06, Fri 26 Jan 2018.
Organdi the Fair
NPC, 3 posts
Argan Argar
Priest
Fri 26 Jan 2018
at 15:35
  • msg #115

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

And with that Grundar vanishes through the dark wall to return a few minutes later with good news and in the company of a human priest of Argan Argar. The man is tall, dark of skin and wears a large floppy hat. His features are the same of those from the west and the local settlers.

"Ah, Grundar tells me you have those amongst you that seek shelter here. I am Organdi the Fair, a priest of this blessed temple."

He looks over to the Trollkin and then takes in each of the Rangers in turn., with am arm resting on the shoulder of Grundar.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3906 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Fri 26 Jan 2018
at 17:52
  • msg #116

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
The guard gives Ohanzee a long stare and then his stern look changes in to a genuine smile "Welcome brother. You are welcome, but know this, these are dark times and our temple is becalmed by the occupiers. Be careful who you trust, and understand the worship of our god is not allowed openly."

Ohanzee returns the smile and replies "Thank you for the advice, I had heard similar elsewhere about this."

He looks about, his enlo eyes piercing the gloom of the alley as he checks for others listening in. He steps forward and speaks quietly "And I had heard from those same people that there is a place in the Rubble where the Air is still moves and worship is free."

"I would offer my services for a week in such a place."
GM
GM, 10983 posts
Fri 26 Jan 2018
at 18:47
  • msg #117

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee Shappa:
"I would offer my services for a week in such a place."</blue></small>

"You speak of the Storm fort?" He gives the other warriors present a look. "The place is deserted and dangerous...It is a place for heroes...Wind Lords and their followers."
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3907 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Fri 26 Jan 2018
at 19:46
  • msg #118

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee scratches his beardless chin in contemplation "Well I did promise  someone that I would help guard the place if I was here. Perhaps I should offer my services here instead, though from the look of you guys you have it covered."
GM
GM, 10984 posts
Sat 27 Jan 2018
at 06:25
  • msg #119

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee Shappa:
Ohanzee scratches his beardless chin in contemplation "Well I did promise  someone that I would help guard the place if I was here. Perhaps I should offer my services here instead, though from the look of you guys you have it covered."

Another of the guards, this one a woman, taps Ohanzee on the arm "If you wish to go to Storm Hill, go and see Krogar Wolfhelm. You will find him at the Humakt temple in the Farmers quarter. He is a Wind Lord..."
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3908 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Sat 27 Jan 2018
at 09:01
  • msg #120

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee nods his head to the woman "Thank you milady." Then to the group as a whole he says "May the winds blow favourably on you." and walks on to catch up with the others.

He arrives just as Grundar emerges with the Argar Argar Priest. He looks about at the others and and then offers his own name in return "Greetings, I am Ohanzee Shappa, though often called just Blue Arm." and he holds up his arm by way of explanation.

"It is our friends the enlo of the Pyre Brigade who seek a place to stay as most seem not as friendly towards those of Darkness as we in this place."
Melock
player, 4497 posts
Bison
Raven
Sat 27 Jan 2018
at 09:04
  • msg #121

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Organdi the Fair:
And with that Grundar vanishes through the dark wall to return a few minutes later with good news and in the company of a human priest of Argan Argar. The man is tall, dark of skin and wears a large floppy hat. His features are the same of those from the west and the local settlers.

"Ah, Grundar tells me you have those amongst you that seek shelter here. I am Organdi the Fair, a priest of this blessed temple."

He looks over to the Trollkin and then takes in each of the Rangers in turn., with am arm resting on the shoulder of Grundar.


Melock returns the look with a cheeky grin and makes a mental note of what he's wearing. "I am Melock, do you trade with any spider followers?"
Organdi the Fair
NPC, 4 posts
Argan Argar
Priest
Sat 27 Jan 2018
at 10:20
  • msg #122

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee Shappa:
"It is our friends the enlo of the Pyre Brigade who seek a place to stay as most seem not as friendly towards those of Darkness as we in this place."

"So Grundar here explains...Well we would be delighted to host your companions at the temple. How long for may I ask?"

Melock:
Melock returns the look with a cheeky grin and makes a mental note of what he's wearing. "I am Melock, do you trade with any spider followers?"


"There are many who are followers of Aranea amongst those that I trade with yes." His eyes narrow as he takes in the many spiders that are obvious upon Melock's person.

"You seem to be well acquainted with the creatures..."
Melock
player, 4498 posts
Bison
Raven
Sat 27 Jan 2018
at 12:10
  • msg #123

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Organdi the Fair:
"There are many who are followers of Aranea amongst those that I trade with yes." His eyes narrow as he takes in the many spiders that are obvious upon Melock's person.

"You seem to be well acquainted with the creatures..."


Looking puzzled, Melock encourages one of the spiders to climb over his hands as he talks, "Who is Aranea? I was talking about Grandmother of Spiders. Do you know if those you trade with will deal with a nomad?"
Organdi the Fair
NPC, 5 posts
Argan Argar
Priest
Sat 27 Jan 2018
at 13:54
  • msg #124

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Melock:
Organdi the Fair:
"There are many who are followers of Aranea amongst those that I trade with yes." His eyes narrow as he takes in the many spiders that are obvious upon Melock's person.

"You seem to be well acquainted with the creatures..."


Looking puzzled, Melock encourages one of the spiders to climb over his hands as he talks, "Who is Aranea? I was talking about Grandmother of Spiders. Do you know if those you trade with will deal with a nomad?"

"I deal with people from all walks of life, but I have a feeling you are speaking of Trolls in particular yes?"

"And perhaps could you tell me how long the Enlo will be staying at the temple?
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3910 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Sat 27 Jan 2018
at 14:55
  • msg #125

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Snuff, who has been growing and is now the size of Ohanzee's head scuttles up to the man's feet taking in the smells of darkness with his feathery antenna.

Ohanzee looks at him in a puzzled manner having put his recent absence down to him hiding for his moult but wondering now that is over where he has been.

He shrugs and looks back up at the priest "It will be several weeks if that is permitted."
Organdi the Fair
NPC, 6 posts
Argan Argar
Priest
Sat 27 Jan 2018
at 15:35
  • msg #126

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee Shappa:
Snuff, who has been growing and is now the size of Ohanzee's head scuttles up to the man's feet taking in the smells of darkness with his feathery antenna.

Ohanzee looks at him in a puzzled manner having put his recent absence down to him hiding for his moult but wondering now that is over where he has been.

He shrugs and looks back up at the priest "It will be several weeks if that is permitted."

The priest pulls out an abacus from within his robes and begins to clack the lead beads this way and that. "So that's seven Trollkin, one extra large...Full board and lodgings...three weeks..." Here he looks at Ohanzee "Possibly more...That'll be a lunar a day, so twenty one silvers, with a ten Lunar deposit to cover unforeseen damages etc...let's call that an even thirty silvers and we aren't responsible for any unforeseen eatings. Okay"

The priest holds out his hand to Ohanzee.

"And i'd hide the beetle as it's a particularly tasty variety and the locals don't like them much."
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3912 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Sat 27 Jan 2018
at 18:43
  • msg #127

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee looks at the open hand and then grins "Well they are Amara's" he points at her and then continues "And Hoskar there handles our deals."
Amara Brightsky
player, 3562 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Sat 27 Jan 2018
at 19:09
  • msg #128

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara raised a quizzical eyebrow towards Hoskar as she caught Ohanzee talking to the priest "Negotiate with Hoskar. We'll cover any necessary expenditure." She had no real idea how much treasure she had, but she was sure it was enough to cover the lodging and it was only fair for her to pay for this.
Kobal
player, 2025 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 02:24
  • msg #129

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

As they walk to the Argan Argar temple, Kobal asks Grundar, "'Fighting fish'?  Is this a real fish?  How do you keep it alive?"

The Air temple, Kobal doesn't mind so much.  Foreigners, but Waha respects the Lightbringers.  And the Thunder Bird within him feels a certain affinity with the Air.

The Argan Argar temple, though, puts him in a dark mood, thinking of their battles with trolls.  He keeps his peace and lets the others do the talking.

Organdi the Fair:
"And i'd hide the beetle as it's a particularly tasty variety and the locals don't like them much."


He can't help a chuckle, though, at the priest's comment.  Yeah, we don't like it either, haha.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2758 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 10:04
  • msg #130

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar sweeps his hands together before his chest, in what is a familiar gesture to those who have travelled with him awhile, and turns to face Organdi.

Hmmm. Thirty, you say? Well let's see. His brow furrows as he calculates, muttering to himself.

Right. So when I am here before a tenement's a silver or so, times three weeks is three. Now let's be fair and double it for shortage of supply as we are renting for Enlo so everyone sees we are short on options and we get six. Add food for those who are eating rocks if they choose...add decent temple profits...subtract nominal for information on what the Enlo are doing with us lot...likely to come out in that sort of time...hmmm...

His eyes swim back into focus. I get it to twenty-five with the Issaries decent profit margins he observes airily Know your god might demand different. Plus a a refund of two per unforeseen eating just to be making sure you are keeping them unforeseen. Know you are standing by a contract, but that is stopping us paying out to give some other guest who is getting hungry behind your back a square meal.
Organdi the Fair
NPC, 7 posts
Argan Argar
Priest
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 10:14
  • msg #131

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hoskar sweeps his hands together before his chest, in what is a familiar gesture to those who have travelled with him awhile, and turns to face Organdi.

Hmmm. Thirty, you say? Well let's see. His brow furrows as he calculates, muttering to himself.

Right. So when I am here before a tenement's a silver or so, times three weeks is three. Now let's be fair and double it for shortage of supply as we are renting for Enlo so everyone sees we are short on options and we get six. Add food for those who are eating rocks if they choose...add decent temple profits...subtract nominal for information on what the Enlo are doing with us lot...likely to come out in that sort of time...hmmm...

His eyes swim back into focus. I get it to twenty-five with the Issaries decent profit margins he observes airily Know your god might demand different. Plus a a refund of two per unforeseen eating just to be making sure you are keeping them unforeseen. Know you are standing by a contract, but that is stopping us paying out to give some other guest who is getting hungry behind your back a square meal.

Organdi spits in his hand and holds it out to Hoskar "Deal on twenty five silvers."

Then to the Enlo he barks a few short orders out in Darktongue, which causes them to salute Amara before filing into the temple.
Kobal
player, 2027 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 10:27
  • msg #132

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal waits for Hoskar to settle the payment, before speaking to him quietly.  "You say you need to go to the Lhankor Mhy temple.  Is this going to take long?  I figure Sharptongue Girl will have told the Snowspear we've arrived, and she likely won't be happy if we take our sweet time reporting to her."
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 543 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 11:18
  • msg #133

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
Kobal waits for Hoskar to settle the payment, before speaking to him quietly.  "You say you need to go to the Lhankor Mhy temple.  Is this going to take long?  I figure Sharptongue Girl will have told the Snowspear we've arrived, and she likely won't be happy if we take our sweet time reporting to her."

Probably unseen (standing in the middle of the group to avoid the inspections of the various temple attendants) Temush nods vigorously but silently.
Grundar
Player, 105 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 12:33
  • msg #134

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In reply to Kobal (msg # 129):

The fish lives in a jar of water, a heavy thing that, but I've got people to carry it for me. Mine lives mainly on the opponents it chews up! It has taken the odd spell to patch it up if another fish gets a quick chomp before he sees them off. Fortunately I know this dryad, she can help in that department. Grundar's tales get larger the longer he talks. There is truth in them, but touch of excited exaggeration here and there, as is the case with any young brave showing off. He suddenly stops when he realises that he may be speaking a little too loudly. Having made a point of checking around to ensure it is safe to go on, he continues in a loud whisper, I was just telling Melock, there's this tavern where matches are held in this great tank, fish on fish. I'll show you one day perhaps, if you stick around in the city long enough. But not yet. Not the best place for me right now. They're sore losers!
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 544 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 12:46
  • msg #135

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Temush's eyebrows disappear under his head-wrapping at Grundar's mention of a dryad, but his policy of silence continues.
Melock
player, 4501 posts
Bison
Raven
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 13:18
  • msg #136

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
Kobal waits for Hoskar to settle the payment, before speaking to him quietly.  "You say you need to go to the Lhankor Mhy temple.  Is this going to take long?  I figure Sharptongue Girl will have told the Snowspear we've arrived, and she likely won't be happy if we take our sweet time reporting to her."


"Just blame me Kobal, she already hates me." Melock looks crestfallen, "I wonder if I'll get any time to myself or will she expect me to guard her?"
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2759 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 15:20
  • msg #137

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In reply to Organdi the Fair (msg # 131):

With a smile, Hoskar seals the deal with a spit and shake; happy to have achieved a discount praise be to Issaries: I am messing up the last few.

When matters are arranged, he nods in agreement to Kobal's words. Think you are right there, Kobal: the sages are not expecting us, the Lady likely is.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3563 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 15:51
  • msg #138

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara flashed a smile towards Hoskar in acknowledgement of his negotiations in reducing the price. "We should go visit our queen while the Pyre brigade see if they can find out where Delenda is being held captive. I've no doubt she has some work for us and the sooner we get it out of the way, the sooner we can rescue Delenda and return her to her clan."
Melock
player, 4502 posts
Bison
Raven
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 18:53
  • msg #139

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"Not my queen" mutters Melock, "You're right Amara," he grins "we need to rescue a sable to return her to her queen."
Kobal
player, 2028 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Mon 29 Jan 2018
at 23:22
  • msg #140

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Grundar:
The fish lives in a jar of water, a heavy thing that, but I've got people to carry it for me. Mine lives mainly on the opponents it chews up! It has taken the odd spell to patch it up if another fish gets a quick chomp before he sees them off. Fortunately I know this dryad, she can help in that department. Grundar's tales get larger the longer he talks.


Kobal shakes his head in disbelief.  A heavy jar of water.  And he uses it to keep a fish!  With water so scarce in the Wastes and Prax.  I don't understand Sky Watchers.  Amara at least seems normal.

Melock:
"Just blame me Kobal, she already hates me." Melock looks crestfallen, "I wonder if I'll get any time to myself or will she expect me to guard her?"


"I already blame you (and Ohanzee).  For everything," laughs Kobal.  Hopefully Angelika will keep him busy enough that he won't have time to get into trouble.

Hoskar Two-Feather:
When matters are arranged, he nods in agreement to Kobal's words. Think you are right there, Kobal: the sages are not expecting us, the Lady likely is.


Kobal claps him on the shoulder.  "Come on, then.  Lead the way.  I'm sure there'll be time for your sages later."
GM
GM, 10991 posts
Tue 30 Jan 2018
at 08:11
  • msg #141

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

With the Enlo safe and sound within the Rangers continue on towards the Garhound Mansion to meet up with their Priestess and pay their respects to the important local clan.

The walk is short and there infant of them is the impressive rich hill, built supposedly atop ancient Mostali halls. Immediately before them is a small guard post partially blocking the entrance to the raised area, it's three Lunar guards turning to inspect the scruffy looking band of nomads.
Kobal
player, 2030 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 30 Jan 2018
at 08:23
  • msg #142

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Moon worshippers are annoying.  Kobal stops a safe distance (for both sides) and says "We're here as the escort for one of the guests of the Garhound mansion.  We're expected."
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2762 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Tue 30 Jan 2018
at 09:08
  • msg #143

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Still wreathed in contentment from his recent bargain, Hoskar is smiling placidly as he adds I know we are looking as if we bring along half the wastes in our clothes and are none too easy on the eye right now. It's just that those we serve are not fond of having to wait.
GM
GM, 10994 posts
Tue 30 Jan 2018
at 09:35
  • msg #144

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The soldiers nod, gesturing that the braves should continue into Rich Hill.

Hoskar explains that this always has been the affluent part of town. The houses are larger, wider, and cleaner. There are armed guards at the houses, and regular patrols of the constabulary. Many of the houses are those of affluent servants but none are of
poor or middle class tenements.

The Garhound mansion is a particularly impressive two story, near windowless square building, It's facing is covered with impressive murals depicting the Sartarite Gods, ancestors and historical events.

Before it stand a gaggle of Garhound guardsmen.
Melock
player, 4505 posts
Bison
Raven
Tue 30 Jan 2018
at 11:04
  • msg #145

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

As they walk through the posh area, Melock walks along side Hoskar, "So this is where all the rich people live, do you know anyone else who lives here?"
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2763 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Tue 30 Jan 2018
at 11:44
  • msg #146

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In reply to Melock (msg # 145):

Hoskar chuckles at Melock's question.

What? Me? It is scarcely likely with me being small beans in these parts.

But actually, I am once tagging along to see Kost the Tracker. Lives over to the right on the way to the Pavis temple.  He is unlikely to even remember my face, but is big with Issaries. Has quite a name for travelling the Wastes and returning parts of Genert.

He'd know what to do with those damn hyaenas he adds sourly before composing his mien to greet the Garhound retinue.

Hail to you he calls out as humbly as he knows. We guarded the lady Angelika through the wastes, and come to ask her further orders.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:45, Tue 30 Jan 2018.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3913 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Tue 30 Jan 2018
at 12:14
  • msg #147

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee sniggers "You can't half make a big wind master small beans. Puff, puff puff, worse than a Bison on fresh pasture!"

He scratches his head, squinting in the sunlight as he stares at the guards and beyond them at the impressive stone tent.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:43, Tue 30 Jan 2018.
GM
GM, 10999 posts
Wed 31 Jan 2018
at 08:12
  • msg #148

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hail to you he calls out as humbly as he knows. We guarded the lady Angelika through the wastes, and come to ask her further orders.

Several of the guards saunter over, taking in the group and nodding when they spy Amara's armband

"Aye we were told to expect you. The governor's out but we'll inform the Priestess that you're here. Come with us and wait in the courtyard.."

The guards escort you through a set of strengthened wooden and bronze doors and into a central courtyard, overlooked by the balconies of the upper floors. Women folk and young kids stare down at the braves, talking behind hands and in some cases giggling.

It's gloomy thanks to the day's dense cloud cover, so rush torches burn in the four corners of the otherwise bare space. There are many doors leading off into the house, each with a wary guard standing before it.
Kobal
player, 2034 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 31 Jan 2018
at 08:39
  • msg #149

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal ignores the women and children as he paces slowly about the courtyard.  The children are children, and the women don't appear to be braves of the Garhound clan.

"It's a bit strange," he says quietly to his fellow Wandering Rangers.  "These people are Orlanthi, right?  Yet, this building of theirs has few holes for the Air and its spirits.  Our own tents are more welcoming to the Air than they are."

As he waits in the courtyard, he then remembers Hoskar's comments to the Lunar guards, and pats himself down a bit, to loosen any dust off his clothes.  He combs his hair with his fingers.  Now he is fit to meet with any Khan.
Melock
player, 4506 posts
Bison
Raven
Wed 31 Jan 2018
at 08:58
  • msg #150

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

While he watches Kobal pace, Melock smiles and waves at the children. He follows Kobal's example and dust's himself down.
Grundar
Player, 106 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Wed 31 Jan 2018
at 09:08
  • msg #151

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Grundar, who has continued to tag along with the visitors having secured a hideaway for the Enlo, has continued to tag along with them. Now that the initial excited rush from meeting old friends and fellows from the Plains has subsided, so have his stories. He is beginning to realise that this is a group of very odd fascinating people indeed! Even in the short time he has been in Pavis, he must have acclimatised somewhat and he is seeing his own from the outside. He keeps quiet, watching and listening carefully, trying to take them in, besides, he doesn't really know what their business is yet...
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 547 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Wed 31 Jan 2018
at 09:26
  • msg #152

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Temush checks all his fingernails are still there, and then finds a spot in the shade to sit down and wait for something to happen
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2764 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Wed 31 Jan 2018
at 20:39
  • msg #153

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Looking around and seeing no familiar faces Hoskar continues his smile, inclining his head to anyone whose gaze he catches.

As he does so, he looks speculatively at Grundar a moment, then moves over to speak. Thank you. I know you are not obligated to be here. Maybe later you tell me how Becx comes to leave her business in your hands and we explain our business, plus how Ohanzee kept safe more Sky Watchers.

Over a drink. In a bar. Out there where it is dusty, I miss Lilina's ale like nothing else.
Kobal
player, 2036 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 01:29
  • msg #154

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"And while you're at it," Kobal chips in to Grundar, "you can explain why you live here.  The smell... Not quite death, but stale and bad.  The Moon worshippers.  The outsiders.  And so much time on your feet, instead of on your mount.  It... doesn't feel right."
Amara Brightsky
player, 3565 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 03:15
  • msg #155

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara remained placid, unsure what to make of the buildings. She didn't understand herself why others might wish to live in them, but they certainly had an air of permanence about them. She gave a quick disapproving frown at Kobals comment wondering if he was saying it on purpose to antagonise the Skywatcher. She wasn't going to say anything, but decided to in the end.

"At one point, I couldn't understand why anyone would want to ride a bison. Rhino are stronger, tougher and they provide us with meat, clothing and all the tool we need and use. All other riders were weaker than us and not worthy of our notice. We travelled with the Prairie Thunder clan and learned of their ways. They were different to ours, but we learned their ways as they learned ours and our tribes were all enriched by the experience, for we are one under Waha. I do not understand the peoples of this place, that say do not murder, yet would have their kin starve for want of metal. That doesn't mean it is wrong for them. They are neither the guardians of the green, nor of the people of the Wastelands. They are not blessed as we are. We know they are different. When it comes time to move them from this place, knowledge of their ways might make it easier to move them with less sacrifice among the clans of our numbers."
Kobal
player, 2037 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 05:04
  • msg #156

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal turns to Amara.  "Yes, I accept the other tribes with their different mounts.  This is part of what the Khan of Khans taught us to survive.  (Though of course I think the bison is best.  They are as fast as a rhino, and solid too.  A sturdy mount for a Dedra.  But they are not as large, so they can survive easier on the sparse Wastes, not needing to eat as much.  And they breed faster.  This is why the bison tribe is one of the large tribes of Prax.  They provide meat like rhinos, but milk too.  Rhino milk is watery...  I believe that Waha himself rides a bison...)

"But why live like this?"  He spreads his arms and hands and looks about.  "This is not the way Waha taught us.  It is wrong.  These may not be the people of the Wastelands, but they are people on the Wastelands.  They do not know the peaceful cut, which maintains the cycle of life and respect for life on the hard land.  They do not live with, and guard, the land.  They just build where they want, damage the Earth, and take what they want.  I just want to know why one of us would choose to live this way."
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 548 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 08:01
  • msg #157

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Sitting quietly to one side Temush's head nods forwards as if in disappointment. Or perhaps he has gone to sleep.
Angelika Snowspear
NPC, 81 posts
Vingan Priestess
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 09:14
  • msg #158

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"Ah you made it to the city....All of you are alive this time I hope?"

It's Angelika, standing above looking down at the Rangers assembled below her. She's dressed in a way they've have never seen before, in the clothes of the western barbarians, clean, powerful looking.

"One moment and I'll be down."

Shortly one of the doors open and the priestess beckons the Rangers in to a large room, opulently furnished, with carpets, low tables, ornate chairs and several attendant servants and guards...
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2766 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 09:52
  • msg #159

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Before

In reply to Kobal (msg # 156):

Wincing slightly, Hoskar bites his lip lightly before replying to Kobal and Amara's words.

With me it was family and desperation, and I too want to hear why you he turns to Grundar are here and meeting Becx. When she is trusting a man, we should - she is not trusting lightly. He turns back to face the group. They call it civilisation. I am not disagreeing with any of what you say, but there are good sides too when you dig for them. In the city, that is, not in the Shepelkirt.

Out there we raid and we die. The way of the place, and not wrong, but good men die. No raids in here, but they have other problems instead. This many people together and they can specialise. How many tribes have a whitesmith or a worker in carved stone who gets exceptional because he does nothing else? But that leads to hideous luxury and hideous poverty, it seems.

He shrugs.

They are taking their blessings differently.

Easy for me to say, I know: I am fitting nowhere but with Becx and with you. Living in the cracks.

Now


Hoskar files in with the rest, head bowed respectfully, awaiting the Lady Angelika's words.
Kobal
player, 2038 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 10:29
  • msg #160

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal would reply to Hoskar, but Angelika makes her appearance.  He walks into the room she indicates.

"Yes, we're all here, Wise One.  The other bandits already had too much of a head start on us, so we made our way here, after settling matters with the ransomed bandit.  We met your girl at the gate.  After taking care of our mounts, and leaving the trollkin at the Argan Argar temple we came right here."  He turns.  "With us today is Grundar of your clan."  He doesn't offer further details about the man, unsure whether the two already know each other.  "It turns out he is working with Hoskar's mother, and so accompanied us here today."

Done with the explanations, he says, "What would you have us do?"
Angelika Snowspear
NPC, 82 posts
Vingan Priestess
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 11:09
  • msg #161

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
Kobal would reply to Hoskar, but Angelika makes her appearance.  He walks into the room she indicates.

"Yes, we're all here, Wise One.  The other bandits already had too much of a head start on us, so we made our way here, after settling matters with the ransomed bandit.  We met your girl at the gate.  After taking care of our mounts, and leaving the trollkin at the Argan Argar temple we came right here."  He turns.  "With us today is Grundar of your clan."  He doesn't offer further details about the man, unsure whether the two already know each other.  "It turns out he is working with Hoskar's mother, and so accompanied us here today."

Done with the explanations, he says, "What would you have us do?"

"Thank you Kobal...And welcome to you Grundar....I'm sorry but I do not recognise you, who was your mother and father?" She smiles at the Raven brave as she talks "It is always good to come across another of our Clan."

To everyone she says "Come sit, are you hungry, thirsty?" She claps her hands and servants scurry off to return with wine and a light meal of bread, grilled fowl and condiments. The chicken has a distinctly fishy smell.

"Ah yes it is cooked with the sauce the locals love so much, Garum, made from fermented fish innards and spices. A required taste but a good substitute for salt."

Once everyone has sat down she continues
"What would I have you do? For the moment nothing as I have business here and at the temple. Feel free to explore the city and relax as you have earned it. If I remember correctly you were asked to report to Govoran the Magnificent. So perhaps it would be best if you did that.
You are staying at Becx's house I believe?"
Avalarn
NPC, 9 posts
Sun County
Girl
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 11:28
  • msg #162

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

As she talks another door opens and in walks Avalarn, the young Sun County girl. "Hello everyone."

Shyly she sits down next to the Priestess.
Angelika Snowspear
NPC, 83 posts
Vingan Priestess
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 11:29
  • msg #163

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"Silly me how could I forget....You need to bring this young lady to her uncle's house in Sun Town. Don't you Temush?"
Kobal
player, 2039 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 11:31
  • msg #164

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Angelika Snowspear:
To everyone she says "Come sit, are you hungry, thirsty?" She claps her hands and servants scurry off to return with wine and a light meal of bread, grilled fowl and condiments. The chicken has a distinctly fishy smell.

"Ah yes it is cooked with the sauce the locals love so much, Garum, made from fermented fish innards and spices. A required taste but a good substitute for salt."


Although he's already had breakfast, Kobal samples the food.  Partly because he'd never turn down an offer of free food, but partly also because it is the polite response to the offer of hospitality.

Despite not being used to the flavour, it's not bad.  The flavour is certainly stronger than what they had back at Becx's, and it's clear that the food is off better quality, including the bread - it's not tough.  He makes sure to make it clear that he's enjoying the food.  Mostly, though, he drinks wine.

Angelika Snowspear:
Once everyone has sat down she continues
"What would I have you do? For the moment nothing as I have business here and at the temple. Feel free to explore the city and relax as you have earned it. If I remember correctly you were asked to report to Govoran the Magnificent. So perhaps it would be best if you did that.
You are staying at Becx's house I believe?"


"That's right," Kobal nods.  "How are we to know when you need us, Wise One?  Should we come here each morning?  Or will you send a message to the house when you need us?"

I wish she would have a job for Melock, haha!

When Avalarn walks in, he groans inwardly.  Not her again...
This message was last edited by the player at 11:34, Thu 01 Feb 2018.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3915 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 12:07
  • msg #165

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee mutters to the nearest "Govoran the Magnificent, who's that and why do we have to see them?" unaware of the full sequence of events that occurred when he was dead.
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 550 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 13:19
  • msg #166

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Angelika Snowspear:
"Silly me how could I forget....You need to bring this young lady to her uncle's house in Sun Town. Don't you Temush?"

Temush bows to Angelika on being named Avalarn needs to get back to her kin. But if I may, oh Queen, since those - since those who burned her stead posed as Dedra and Zebra riders, it would cause less angst for her folk if you were in a place to ask one of your hosts to go with her and not one of us.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:26, Thu 01 Feb 2018.
Melock
player, 4508 posts
Bison
Raven
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 13:28
  • msg #167

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Melock bows in greeting when he sees Angelika and quietly follows everyone else into the room. He does his best not to stare too much at the rich furnishings and he helps himself to the food once it is offered, though he uses his hands instead of a plate so no one accuses him of trying to steal anything. He returns Avalarn's smile and once he's finished his food, "Mistress Snowspear, I'm I also free to roam or am I still on guard duty?"
Amara Brightsky
player, 3566 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 16:13
  • msg #168

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara expression turned quizzical as she looked at her Queen. She wasn't used to seeing her in.. the clothing she was dressed in and she wasn't sure she liked it or not. The only unequivocal thing was that she had presence in it. She bowed her head in respect to Angelika "Mother of my heart, do you have need of me? If you do not, I will spend my time searching for Delenda and there may be another of our kind living here that could be valuable to know. I found a quiver of hers a time ago. I may also see if I can find anything on the white lance."
Angelika Snowspear
NPC, 84 posts
Vingan Priestess
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 17:43
  • msg #169

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
"How are we to know when you need us, Wise One?  Should we come here each morning?  Or will you send a message to the house when you need us?"

"Believe me you won't be hard to find, but I will send someone if I need you. It would be good if we ate together occasionally and if you all attend Temple with me. Our Gods have a place of worship in the Farmer's quarters."

Ohanzee Shappa:
Ohanzee mutters to the nearest "Govoran the Magnificent, who's that and why do we have to see them?" unaware of the full sequence of events that occurred when he was dead.


"Tsk, the trials and tribulations of dying Ohanzee...The others can fill you in, but for now know that he is perhaps the only trustworthy priest of Orlanth in this city and an elder of this household."

Temush Blinking-cloud:
Temush bows to Angelika on being named Avalarn needs to get back to her kin. But if I may, oh Queen, since those - since those who burned her stead posed as Dedra and Zebra riders, it would cause less angst for her folk if you were in a place to ask one of your hosts to go with her and not one of us.


"And the fact she was saved by Praxians is not a chance to be missed Temush Blinking-cloud or would you have an important citizen of this city owe a favour to someone else? This mission is for a Sun Hawk to...what is that saying you all have? Walk the Walk and Talk the Talk..."

Melock:
Melock bows in greeting when he sees Angelika and quietly follows everyone else into the room. He does his best not to stare too much at the rich furnishings and he helps himself to the food once it is offered, though he uses his hands instead of a plate so no one accuses him of trying to steal anything. He returns Avalarn's smile and once he's finished his food, "Mistress Snowspear, I'm I also free to roam or am I still on guard duty?"


"Oh Melock...This city was made for you. Go do Raven's bidding with my blessing" She gives Melock a genuine smile.

Amara Brightsky:
Amara expression turned quizzical as she looked at her Queen. She wasn't used to seeing her in.. the clothing she was dressed in and she wasn't sure she liked it or not. The only unequivocal thing was that she had presence in it. She bowed her head in respect to Angelika "Mother of my heart, do you have need of me? If you do not, I will spend my time searching for Delenda and there may be another of our kind living here that could be valuable to know. I found a quiver of hers a time ago. I may also see if I can find anything on the white lance."


"You must do what you must do, but I expect you to accompany me to the Wind Temple at some stage. There are Vingans we must meet with before we leave for the High Holy Day...

Who is the person you seek, this owner of the quiver." At the mention of the White Lance she smiles once more, before returning to the kidnapped Delenda.

"You must tread carefully. I shall put out feelers, but I think perhaps the best thing is to contact friendly Trolls and see if her freedom can be bought."

She turns to include all the braves "Did you not have something for the Elves of the Garden?"
Melock
player, 4510 posts
Bison
Raven
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 18:19
  • msg #170

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Angelika:
"Oh Melock...This city was made for you. Go do Raven's bidding with my blessing" She gives Melock a genuine smile.


Melock's eyes go wide with surprise and for a moment he is speechless, then he manages to stutter, "M.. m.. my thanks Mistress." Looking round at the others, "Though before I follow my instincts, I will be going to the unicorn riders temple to inform them of the death of one of their own, would anyone like to come with me? Before anyone answers, I should tell you it's outside of the city."
Amara Brightsky
player, 3567 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 18:28
  • msg #171

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara nodded at Angelika's words "Ohanzee and I have an undertaking with the Aldryami, but we hear they are...intensely hostile. I was wondering how we might approach them without initiating hostilities."
Angelika Snowspear
NPC, 85 posts
Vingan Priestess
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 18:33
  • msg #172

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara Brightsky:
Amara nodded at Angelika's words "Ohanzee and I have an undertaking with the Aldryami, but we hear they are...intensely hostile. I was wondering how we might approach them without initiating hostilities."

"Most will be sleeping at this time of year...I would wait for Sea Season next year as they take part in ceremonies that include humans in the Rubble and would be more receptive then. But if you must then I suggest approaching the edge of the forest and waiting for them to contact you, though this time of the year the areas about the garden are filled with hostile Trolls, made powerful by the darkness."
Amara Brightsky
player, 3568 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 18:43
  • msg #173

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara looked at the others in the group "I think we should at least make an attempt to return this acorn to them at this time. The return of this acorn may cause the Aldryami to make plans for things when they are active....which may be too late if they receive it when they turn active....but I will listen to what everyone has to say." she shrugged "And it is likely we will be in troll lands in any case, whether to fight to recover Delenda, or to make the necessary exchanges."
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 551 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 19:36
  • msg #174

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Angelika Snowspear:
"And the fact she was saved by Praxians is not a chance to be missed Temush Blinking-cloud or would you have an important citizen of this city owe a favour to someone else? This mission is for a Sun Hawk to...what is that saying you all have? Walk the Walk and Talk the Talk..."

Temush nods but sounds unconvinced "I shall do as you bid Wise One, though from what I saw on the trail I would not count on thanks from those who are not built to feel such ties or to give them voice."

Amara Brightsky:
Amara looked at the others in the group "I think we should at least make an attempt to return this acorn to them at this time. The return of this acorn may cause the Aldryami to make plans for things when they are active....which may be too late if they receive it when they turn active....but I will listen to what everyone has to say." she shrugged "And it is likely we will be in troll lands in any case, whether to fight to recover Delenda, or to make the necessary exchanges."


Temush volunteers "I would like to help with your trip to find the elves. The shield of light might help to break the ice, but if there are trolls there it will not please them at all! Will you come with me to take Avalarn to her uncle? You know Delenda better than I, and can speak more of her care for her charge"
Angelika Snowspear
NPC, 86 posts
Vingan Priestess
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 19:47
  • msg #175

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"The Yelmalions will not deal with a Vingan and those who follow Orlanth" comments the priestess.
Grundar
Player, 109 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Thu 1 Feb 2018
at 19:56
  • msg #176

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Before
To those asking about his story Grundar responds, Yes, it would be good to share our stories later over an ale, but for now, I am here in Pavis to seek both money to live and news of my sister, lost at Moonbroth. Many say she is dead, but I do not believe it, I cannot, and so I move from place to place seeking her. As for Becx, he turns to Hoskar, let's say for now that I fell in her lap when being pursued after a money making scheme that wasn't quite as smooth as I'd envisaged...

Now
Angelika Snowspear:
"Thank you Kobal...And welcome to you Grundar....I'm sorry but I do not recognise you, who was your mother and father?" She smiles at the Raven brave as she talks "It is always good to come across another of our Clan."

Grundar bows, nervously copying the greetings he has seen the others make, not quite sure how he ended up before his queen, and surprised that he did be acknowledged by her,

The honour is all mine. My mother was Delenda and my father Toras. They lie in the soil of Prax my Queen, lost at Moonbroth... He pauses before somewhat impulsively blurting out, 'My sister was also lost, Durinda, but I know not if she is in the ground or if she walks still in some land. Have you... he tails off, looking down sheepishly, aware he has probably spoken out of turn...
Angelika Snowspear
NPC, 87 posts
Vingan Priestess
Fri 2 Feb 2018
at 07:40
  • msg #177

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Grundar:
The honour is all mine. My mother was Delenda and my father Toras. They lie in the soil of Prax my Queen, lost at Moonbroth... He pauses before somewhat impulsively blurting out, 'My sister was also lost, Durinda, but I know not if she is in the ground or if she walks still in some land. Have you... he tails off, looking down sheepishly, aware he has probably spoken out of turn...


 "Ah now I can place you. My condolences, we lost so many good people in the debacle that was Moonbroth, as for your sister I am sorry but I have no news. I see that you are a follower of Raven...It seems that the Feathered Rivals have plans for you and made sure that you met up with the rest of the Rangers. I am sure they will fill you in on what they are all about."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:40, Fri 02 Feb 2018.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2767 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Fri 2 Feb 2018
at 08:50
  • msg #178

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Initially, Hoskar was silent because he was caught up in the aroma and flavour of Garum, a half-forgotten delight of the city's cooking. It takes an effort of will not to stuff his face, but to nibble slowly and with restraint.

As Grundar recounts his tale of loss to the Lady Snowspear, Hoskar finds that the salt of the fish essence is mingled with the salt of his own tears as he bows his head in the hope his emotion will be unobserved.

Taking a breath, he finally makes an observation. It will be a pleasure to bring our new friend here up to date later on.

Sounds as if we are going to the Rubble after here. It is deadly, and little of my knowledge can help. If Becx was around, maybe she can link us to bargain with the Uz. Without her, I can only drop her name and hope. Maybe the Uz that is buying my stone recognises me. Maybe not.

If we can deal with the Uz, the rest might make some sense. Leave them across the bridge where I thought I saw a walking tree and maybe we bump into an outwalker of the garden. And maybe we find the Unicorn women on the way back. And maybe the map I bought - secret place under the old Issaries temple - might give us a place to hide.

But I am not liking it. The place is too deadly to be in long at a go, and we are not seeming likely to find Grundar's sister there.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:51, Fri 02 Feb 2018.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3916 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Fri 2 Feb 2018
at 12:23
  • msg #179

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee nods "Then Govoran the Magnificent is a good person to visit then." he replies to Angelika.

As the conversation moves on he saysto Hoskar's last words, with a mouth full of salted fish "Is a week what you would count as long? I have business that I must do which will take me there for a week."

Snuff scuttles out from the shadows to the table to greedily chomp down on a dropped hunk of fish before scuttling off with it again.
Angelika Snowspear
NPC, 88 posts
Vingan Priestess
Fri 2 Feb 2018
at 12:43
  • msg #180

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"If you must have dealings with the Trolls I suggest that you conduct it at the weekly markets held at the Troll Break."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:02, Fri 02 Feb 2018.
Grundar
Player, 110 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Fri 2 Feb 2018
at 13:21
  • msg #181

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

You have dealings to do with trolls and were hoping that Becx might help? asks Grundar hesitantly, My contact Bartar at the Argan Argar temple is an Uz merchant that deals with Becx, in fact she introduced me. Perhaps he could help?
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3917 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Fri 2 Feb 2018
at 17:46
  • msg #182

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"What about the Mostali? I've heard they helped with this place and still do. What are they like because so far we've only had dealings with the traps and creatures that they've left behind?"

"And where can we find this Govoran the Magnificent? I want to try some of the things they drink here instead of kumiss!"
Amara Brightsky
player, 3569 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Fri 2 Feb 2018
at 18:09
  • msg #183

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

"We could ask the pyre brigade if they know anyone in the local troll community?"
Angelika Snowspear
NPC, 89 posts
Vingan Priestess
Sat 3 Feb 2018
at 10:23
  • msg #184

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Grundar:
You have dealings to do with trolls and were hoping that Becx might help? asks Grundar hesitantly, My contact Bartar at the Argan Argar temple is an Uz merchant that deals with Becx, in fact she introduced me. Perhaps he could help?


"A good idea. Give him my regards for I have dealt with him before many years ago."

Ohanzee Shappa:
"What about the Mostali? I've heard they helped with this place and still do. What are they like because so far we've only had dealings with the traps and creatures that they've left behind?"

"And where can we find this Govoran the Magnificent? I want to try some of the things they drink here instead of kumiss!"

"I have never seen a Mostali, and know nothing about their goings on in the city, as for Govoran? He can usually be found in Gimpy's."

Amara Brightsky:
"We could ask the pyre brigade if they know anyone in the local troll community?"


"In my experience no one would take an Enlo's introduction as anything more than an insult, could they not tell you were to find their old Master, for is that not who you seek?"

"Well if there is nothing else I must leave you as I have an appointment shortly. Shall we meet tomorrow for dinner?"
This message was last edited by the player at 10:24, Sat 03 Feb 2018.
Grundar
Player, 111 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Sun 4 Feb 2018
at 08:46
  • msg #185

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Angelika Snowspear:
<quote Grundar>
You have dealings to do with trolls and were hoping that Becx might help? asks Grundar hesitantly, My contact Bartar at the Argan Argar temple is an Uz merchant that deals with Becx, in fact she introduced me. Perhaps he could help?


"A good idea. Give him my regards for I have dealt with him before many years ago."

Grundar nods in acknowledgement and ponders all he has seen and heard. Clearly the is much going on here he has know understanding of! It should be daunting, but right now, it's exciting and he wants to do it all. The Mostali especially. He's never met one either, and after the trolls and the dryads and all the other wonderful creatures he's seen recently, it feels like they would complete the set. It would be great to see Bartar again too. Still, he reminds himself, it is not his mission, whatever the mission is, and so he sits on his hands and tries to keep his mouth shut...
This message was last edited by the player at 08:47, Sun 04 Feb 2018.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2769 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Mon 5 Feb 2018
at 09:04
  • msg #186

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar bows his head appreciatively. Your counsel and your offer are boons, and the gift of your time is appreciated he murmurs before turning to Grundar and adding this must all seem rather odd - all these agendas and ambitious ideas of the old city. We really do need to let you know what is going on with us.
Melock
player, 4512 posts
Bison
Raven
Mon 5 Feb 2018
at 13:24
  • msg #187

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Melock also bows to Angelika, "Thank you for your blessing, mistress, I will do my best not to disappoint you." Turning to the others, "I think now we have seen mistress Snowspear, we should freshen up and then catch Grundar up as to what we have been doing, maybe somewhere that sells food and drink? Grundar, is there a place to buy clothes on the way back, I'm thinking of getting some to help me blend in."
Kobal
player, 2043 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 6 Feb 2018
at 00:39
  • msg #188

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Angelika Snowspear:
Temush Blinking-cloud:
Temush bows to Angelika on being named Avalarn needs to get back to her kin. But if I may, oh Queen, since those - since those who burned her stead posed as Dedra and Zebra riders, it would cause less angst for her folk if you were in a place to ask one of your hosts to go with her and not one of us.


"And the fact she was saved by Praxians is not a chance to be missed Temush Blinking-cloud or would you have an important citizen of this city owe a favour to someone else? This mission is for a Sun Hawk to...what is that saying you all have? Walk the Walk and Talk the Talk..."


Kobal blinks but says nothing.  She's related to someone important?  Now's she's worth something!

Amara Brightsky:
Amara looked at the others in the group "I think we should at least make an attempt to return this acorn to them at this time. The return of this acorn may cause the Aldryami to make plans for things when they are active....which may be too late if they receive it when they turn active....but I will listen to what everyone has to say." she shrugged "And it is likely we will be in troll lands in any case, whether to fight to recover Delenda, or to make the necessary exchanges."


He nods.  "I agree.  Best to do this sooner rather than later.  The trolls may not happy if they find out what we're trying though.  Best not to mention this to those trollkin of yours.  I don't trust them to talk if threatened."

Ohanzee Shappa:
"What about the Mostali? I've heard they helped with this place and still do. What are they like because so far we've only had dealings with the traps and creatures that they've left behind?"


"We haven't even met one of their Mostali, but even their old places are deadly.  I think we should be careful before wishing to meet them."

Angelika Snowspear:
"Well if there is nothing else I must leave you as I have an appointment shortly. Shall we meet tomorrow for dinner?"


Kobal bows.  "As you wish, Wise One."

Melock:
Melock also bows to Angelika, "Thank you for your blessing, mistress, I will do my best not to disappoint you." Turning to the others, "I think now we have seen mistress Snowspear, we should freshen up and then catch Grundar up as to what we have been doing, maybe somewhere that sells food and drink? Grundar, is there a place to buy clothes on the way back, I'm thinking of getting some to help me blend in."


After Angelika has left, Kobal turns to Grundar.  "Well, it seems from that the Snowspear said, that you were destined to meet us.  We'll have to tell you about Emesh-Ga."  He taps his helmet gently.

"And I'm sorry to hear of your parents," he says placing a hand on the man's shoulder, "there are many stories like yours, sadly, and it seems particularly with you Sky Watchers.  Too many of us lost at Moonbroth, bodies left on the ground, unable to be cremated to the Happy Hunting Grounds."
Amara Brightsky
player, 3571 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 6 Feb 2018
at 03:47
  • msg #189

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara shrugged "Fair enough. We'll leave the Pyre brigade behind. We have enough to be getting on with." she bowed towards Angelika "Any time you need me or us for that matter just let us know. Send a runner to fetch us and we'll come as swiftly as possible. If you feel your safety is guaranteed here."
Avalarn
NPC, 10 posts
Sun County
Girl
Tue 6 Feb 2018
at 08:28
  • msg #190

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Looking at Temush, the young girl asks shyly

"Will you bring me to my Uncle now?"
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 554 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Tue 6 Feb 2018
at 09:11
  • msg #191

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Avalarn:
Looking at Temush, the young girl asks shyly

"Will you bring me to my Uncle now?"


"We can go now if you wish." Temush accedes "Do you know the way there? Would you know the house if you saw it? "
Avalarn
NPC, 11 posts
Sun County
Girl
Tue 6 Feb 2018
at 09:26
  • msg #192

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Temush Blinking-cloud:
Avalarn:
Looking at Temush, the young girl asks shyly

"Will you bring me to my Uncle now?"


"We can go now if you wish." Temush accedes "Do you know the way there? Would you know the house if you saw it? "

Avalarn shakes her head in the negative "I think you can just ask for my Uncle when we get to Sun Town...Someone is bound to know him. His name is Julenissen."
Temush Blinking-cloud
Player, 555 posts
Ostrich Rider
Sun Hawk
Tue 6 Feb 2018
at 10:13
  • msg #193

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Avalarn:
Temush Blinking-cloud:
"We can go now if you wish." Temush accedes "Do you know the way there? Would you know the house if you saw it? "

Avalarn shakes her head in the negative "I think you can just ask for my Uncle when we get to Sun Town...Someone is bound to know him. His name is Julenissen."

Temush nods "Then let us walk back to the place where they house all the gods and ask the way to Sun town." he says.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:14, Tue 06 Feb 2018.
GM
GM, 11013 posts
Tue 6 Feb 2018
at 11:17
  • msg #194

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Rangers decide to split up, agreeing to meet back at Becx's place in several hours time.

Hoskar and Henal head off to the Knowledge temple, whilst Grundar leads Melock off to find someone to either sell or make some clothes, and Ohanzee makes his way to the Humakt temple...

As they move off, Temush nods his goodbyes to Kobal and Amara as he makes his way to find Avalarn's uncle in Sun Town.
GM
GM, 11019 posts
Wed 7 Feb 2018
at 08:30
  • msg #195

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar and Henal make their way to the Knowledge temple, a building which is typical in design throughout Sartar, though one wing has not been built yet and it is shared now by both the local sages and those of the Empire.

Passing through a stout door the braves find themselves in a large chamber, filled with the noise of writing, the babble of half a dozen languages, a score of scribes and rows upon rows of scroll filled shelves. The door bangs behind them, causing the hubbub to cease and all eyes to focus on the two men.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:10, Wed 07 Feb 2018.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2770 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Wed 7 Feb 2018
at 09:10
  • msg #196

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

As he and Henal approach the Greybeards' temple, Hoskar becomes increasingly talkative, babbling on about how he'd hoped to have the temple look at a crystal if he'd not had to trade it away and the Pavis temple itself maybe being cheaper and Honest Kolli doing a great commercial job and unusually for someone with "honest" in his name he is seeming actually honest by all accounts, which is always surprising me - like when you are seeing a sign for clean beds you are knowing a night's rest is leaving you with passengers.

Of course, the place should be formed like their rune he adds, gesturing at an odd reflex angle of the sages' temple but right now that open area, where that bunch is stretching and scraping hides for parchment, makes up for the shape. Someone tells me once the old wing was demolished. All I know for sure is it's not here now.

As they reach the door, he becomes quieter my business here is quite ordinary really, but don't be surprised if I offer to trade a particular bit of Basmoli knowledge I want gossiped all round this man's town too.

When they enter the building and the door bangs, Hoskar winces visibly. Looking rather sheepish, he approaches whoever seems nearest and lest annoyed, and asks quietly Greetings from friend Issaries. Our apologies for the noise: We are not expecting that slam. We have some knowledge business to transact. Can you let us know who we are best seeing?
GM
GM, 11021 posts
Wed 7 Feb 2018
at 10:59
  • msg #197

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge temple

As Hoskar crosses the floor the sages return to work, all that is except for the young scribe that stares at Hoskar warily as the brave approaches

"Depends what you want?" is his short answer. "Your friend isn't going to cause any trouble is he?" This is aimed at Henal, who unlike Hoskar still looks like a nomad.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2771 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Wed 7 Feb 2018
at 11:48
  • msg #198

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In reply to GM (msg # 197):

The Knowledge Temple

Hoskar smiles pacifically at the scribe's question.

Oh you are safe with us he remarks. My friend is here on business of his own as well, which is for him to explain.

I have two sorts of business myself. First, I am helping some of your colleagues doing their research out at the Painted Wall and want to turn in this credit note. Payment was the learning to detect something new. I am thinking magic or spirits, neither of which I can charm out now. Second, is anyone interested in buying some current knowledge of the Basmol cult and what it is doing out there in the wastes? I am not offering an exclusive here - this is stuff that may affect security within the walls - but if the sages are interested and the price is right you hear it first he leans in and adds softly plus maybe some details the authorities are unlikely to want or believe.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:48, Wed 07 Feb 2018.
GM
GM, 11023 posts
Wed 7 Feb 2018
at 12:24
  • msg #199

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple
Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hoskar smiles pacifically at the scribe's question.

Oh you are safe with us he remarks. My friend is here on business of his own as well, which is for him to explain.

I have two sorts of business myself. First, I am helping some of your colleagues doing their research out at the Painted Wall and want to turn in this credit note. Payment was the learning to detect something new. I am thinking magic or spirits, neither of which I can charm out now. Second, is anyone interested in buying some current knowledge of the Basmol cult and what it is doing out there in the wastes? I am not offering an exclusive here - this is stuff that may affect security within the walls - but if the sages are interested and the price is right you hear it first he leans in and adds softly plus maybe some details the authorities are unlikely to want or believe.


The scribe sets his mouth in a thin line as he takes the note of credit from Hoskar with ink soiled fingers. He looks genuinely surprised to see that it is real and who wrote it  "Oh, you are part of the group who escorted those three from the Painted Wall? We were told to keep an ear out for you lot. Supervisor Serat wants to talk to you. You can find her over there talking to Broosta, Daughter of Pavis." The scribe indicates a smallish woman with an ornate fake beard speaking to a much larger woman in traditional clothing of the Old City, who must be the mentioned Broosta.

"You can mention your information to Supervisor Serat too."
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1612 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Wed 7 Feb 2018
at 15:46
  • msg #200

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

On the way to the temple Henal asks "Are the greybeard's trustworthy to pay for the snakeskin and not try and steal it like the moon worshippers might?"

Henal looks about as they enter the knowledge temple, not really speaking apart from agreeing with Hoskar.

As they move towards the Supervisor he tries to follow Hoskar in greeting them.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:22, Wed 07 Feb 2018.
Grundar
Player, 116 posts
Sky Watcher
Raven
Wed 7 Feb 2018
at 16:09
  • msg #201

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
After Angelika has left, Kobal turns to Grundar.  "Well, it seems from that the Snowspear said, that you were destined to meet us.  We'll have to tell you about Emesh-Ga."  He taps his helmet gently.

"And I'm sorry to hear of your parents," he says placing a hand on the man's shoulder, "there are many stories like yours, sadly, and it seems particularly with you Sky Watchers.  Too many of us lost at Moonbroth, bodies left on the ground, unable to be cremated to the Happy Hunting Grounds."


This sudden attention and the reminders of the fate of his parents and sister hit Grundar expectantly. To be honest, there has been little time for grieving and the streets are unsympathetic to the 'weak'. Grundar snorts, and wipes a grimy back of hand across his damp and slightly snotty face, in an action that he hopes is subtle, but it probably isn't.

Thank you Kobal, and all of you, for your welcome and thoughts. Home has seemed a long way away, as much as I've enjoyed exploring Pavis. Perhaps we can help each other. He rises suddenly, changing the subject, Melock, you need some help with clothing? Come on. I'm sure I can help you out.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:11, Wed 07 Feb 2018.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2773 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Wed 7 Feb 2018
at 17:28
  • msg #202

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The knowledge temple

Keeping his expression composed to that of mild interest, Hoskar passes off the scribe's surprise without comment. Many thanks, he says in appreciaive tones. It is refreshing to meet a person of courtesy after rough times, and we are honoured to be sent to high up so fast.

As they move to the indicated pair, he adds to Henal and we are getting high-up access here. Broosta's name I know as a person of much note.

He approaches slowly, careful to be in vision so that the Supervisor and Priestess can see don't want to interrupt anything private.

When looked at, he bows his head briefly before speaking. My apologies for any interruption, Supervisor Sera; Lady Broosta. At each name he inclines his head again in further respect If you are busy, we can easily wait. We are directed to you, Supervisor, about a credit note and some information picked up on our travels before we met with with your Sage comrades at the Painted Wall. If asked, he will go one to explain much as to the scribe with whom he first spoke, but with less familiarity and without mention of a price.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 17:28, Wed 07 Feb 2018.
GM
GM, 11029 posts
Wed 7 Feb 2018
at 18:00
  • msg #203

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The knowledge temple


Hoskar Two-Feather:
When looked at, he bows his head briefly before speaking. My apologies for any interruption, Supervisor Sera; Lady Broosta. At each name he inclines his head again in further respect If you are busy, we can easily wait. We are directed to you, Supervisor, about a credit note and some information picked up on our travels before we met with with your Sage comrades at the Painted Wall. If asked, he will go one to explain much as to the scribe with whom he first spoke, but with less familiarity and without mention of a price.


Both women continue looking at Hoskar and Henal for a long moment, taking in everything about them, one because it's her job as a sage to notice things and the other because its her job to know who walks her streets.

Supervisor Serat gives a perfunctory smile "Ah you are the gentlemen who saved my apprentices from a fate worse than death? They spoke of Trolls, dangerous Nomads, Bandits and hero quests. Is this true?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:01, Wed 07 Feb 2018.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2774 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Wed 7 Feb 2018
at 20:19
  • msg #204

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple


In reply to GM (msg # 203):

Hoskar looks blankly at the Supervisor a moment, then tries and fails to suppress a brief chuckle.

I never think of it that way before. It has been all in a day's work for us, but yes, in outline, it's true. He risks a knowing smile. The "dangerous nomads" were less dangerous than us, it turns out. He glances guardedly at the Daughter of Pavis then back more generally. The City's peace is not to be upset by our presence though, and your apprentices are perhaps too modest - they find an excellent means to gain knowledge at little risk and a very reasonable cost.

He breathes deeply. Twice. Before adding I trust my credit note is good.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:23, Wed 07 Feb 2018.
Kobal
player, 2045 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 8 Feb 2018
at 01:46
  • msg #205

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Temush Blinking-cloud:
Temush nods "Then let us walk back to the place where they house all the gods and ask the way to Sun town." he says.


Kobal looks at Amara.  "Well, I'm going to visit the temple to Waha.  Join me and Haaro if you'd like.  Or do you have something else you'll be doing?"

On the way out of the Garhound mansion, he asks one of the Garhound guards the way to the temple.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3572 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Thu 8 Feb 2018
at 04:24
  • msg #206

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara sighed heavily "Things as they are there is nothing for me to do. Everything is out of my grasp. I can do nothing to assist the pyre brigade, Delenda, our Queen or the Aldryami. If you've no objection I'll come with you, though the priests might object to my presence...and the fact I have some knowledge of the sacred knots." she paused folding her arms "Or I can go to the lunar temples and see if my friend is here. I guess we'll see how things go at the Waha temple and decide from there. There is nothing else for me to do."
Broosta
NPC, 1 post
Daughter of Pavis
Thu 8 Feb 2018
at 08:56
  • msg #207

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple



Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hoskar looks blankly at the Supervisor a moment, then tries and fails to suppress a brief chuckle.

I never think of it that way before. It has been all in a day's work for us, but yes, in outline, it's true. He risks a knowing smile. The "dangerous nomads" were less dangerous than us, it turns out. He glances guardedly at the Daughter of Pavis then back more generally. The City's peace is not to be upset by our presence though, and your apprentices are perhaps too modest - they find an excellent means to gain knowledge at little risk and a very reasonable cost.

He breathes deeply. Twice. Before adding I trust my credit note is good.


The Sage takes the credit note and begins to study it.

"You're Becx's boy aren't you?" It's Broosta who speaks, peering closely at the Condor Brave.
GM
GM, 11036 posts
Thu 8 Feb 2018
at 09:13
  • msg #208

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Going to the Temple...

Kobal:
Kobal looks at Amara.  "Well, I'm going to visit the temple to Waha.  Join me and Haaro if you'd like.  Or do you have something else you'll be doing?"

On the way out of the Garhound mansion, he asks one of the Garhound guards the way to the temple.



Amara Brightsky:
Amara sighed heavily "Things as they are there is nothing for me to do. Everything is out of my grasp. I can do nothing to assist the pyre brigade, Delenda, our Queen or the Aldryami. If you've no objection I'll come with you, though the priests might object to my presence...and the fact I have some knowledge of the sacred knots." she paused folding her arms "Or I can go to the lunar temples and see if my friend is here. I guess we'll see how things go at the Waha temple and decide from there. There is nothing else for me to do."


By following the directions gleaned from other nomads encountered on the way, Amara and Kobal soon find themselves deep within the Farmers market. It's a bustling place, filled with busy locals, Praxians and folk from further afield. There's also several Newtlings scurrying along in the shadows keeping out of the way of bigger folk and the many different riding animals.

The two Braves come to a stop next to a building coming from which is the welcoming smell of cooked Bison. Seeing them standing there a man comes out to accost them

"Oright there, youse two look mighty hungry. New to town yes? Why don't you come and rest your weary limbs for a moment and have one of our famous Bison burgers. Get yer strength up before you go boxing trolls or what ever you've planned for the day. How about's it? Sir? Madam?"

From behind the building comes the loud sounds of pottery breaking and shouts of folk fighting

"That'll be the Stomp and Brew. They like a good brawl in there."

Looking past the man through the open doorways, both braves can see an odd metal contraption sitting in the Bison Burger tavern's courtyard "Ah that's the Grinder...Mostali magic at its best....Come have a look and I'll get you both a beer and a burger."
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:14, Thu 08 Feb 2018.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2775 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Thu 8 Feb 2018
at 13:43
  • msg #209

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

Hoskar blushes at Broosta's recognition of his identity.

That's right, ma'am. I was something of a wreck when I leave the city and am honoured to be recognised as I am now he replies. It seems mother is out of town. I hope not in the wastes, for the Basmoli seem to have something strange afoot out there.

My companion is Henal, a man of honoured descent among his tribe; and, as one as well connected as you probably knows, I am here in a group with several more of the nomad peoples. We have much to do, but nothing sinister. Saying that, I have little time to catch up on events yet.

Though I am a small fish here, I hope that you are prospering.
Supervisor Serat
NPC, 1 post
Sage
Thu 8 Feb 2018
at 14:39
  • msg #210

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

The Pavis notable nods at Henal, smiles at Hoskar, and then steps back to let the supervisor continue with the dealings.

"This all seems to be in order. I'd like to offer the temple's thanks in returning our members back to safety. It has been decided that you are to be rewarded, not only with the spell, but a promise of further employment if and when the need arises. The temple are always on the look out for trustworthy guides and guards.

You can return to the scribe over there and explain to him that the credit note is to be upgraded to article 394B from the stores and to take down your details and address in the city for future dealings...Ah, and what exactly is the information you have?"
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2776 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Thu 8 Feb 2018
at 17:21
  • msg #211

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

Hoskar performs another small bow of thanks and murmurs gratitude for the Supervisor's munificence, then his brow furrows in thought at the Supervisor's question.

The information is difficult. Much of it I would not have believed if I had been told by another and had I not been there.

He squares his shoulders and faces up to the implications of what he has begun.

With apologies, I must answer a question with a question. Does the name, "Ar-grat"...or was it "Ar-cat"?...linked to the title, "White Lion" mean anything to you? If it does, my tale might have some credence; otherwise it will all seem very odd indeed though it would ease my mind to think the city forewarned even of what sounds improbable. Even to the extent I told the gate staff I had something to tell about Basmoli, but I'm not sure I was believed.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:47, Thu 08 Feb 2018.
Kobal
player, 2046 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Fri 9 Feb 2018
at 00:42
  • msg #212

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Going to the Waha Temple...

Amara Brightsky:
Amara sighed heavily "Things as they are there is nothing for me to do. Everything is out of my grasp. I can do nothing to assist the pyre brigade, Delenda, our Queen or the Aldryami. If you've no objection I'll come with you, though the priests might object to my presence...and the fact I have some knowledge of the sacred knots." she paused folding her arms "Or I can go to the lunar temples and see if my friend is here. I guess we'll see how things go at the Waha temple and decide from there. There is nothing else for me to do."


As they find their way to the Waha temple, Kobal asks, "Your 'friend'?  In a lunar temple?"

GM:
The two Braves come to a stop next to a building coming from which is the welcoming smell of cooked Bison. Seeing them standing there a man comes out to accost them

"Oright there, youse two look mighty hungry. New to town yes? Why don't you come and rest your weary limbs for a moment and have one of our famous Bison burgers. Get yer strength up before you go boxing trolls or what ever you've planned for the day. How about's it? Sir? Madam?"

From behind the building comes the loud sounds of pottery breaking and shouts of folk fighting

"That'll be the Stomp and Brew. They like a good brawl in there."

Looking past the man through the open doorways, both braves can see an odd metal contraption sitting in the Bison Burger tavern's courtyard "Ah that's the Grinder...Mostali magic at its best....Come have a look and I'll get you both a beer and a burger."


He's just had two meals, but Kobal's always ready to eat.  He gives Amara an 'it can't hurt' look and starts to walk towards the doorway.   Mostali magic doesn't sound so safe, though...  As he heads in, he says to the man "So you're Dedra yourself?"
Amara Brightsky
player, 3573 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Fri 9 Feb 2018
at 03:50
  • msg #213

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Kobal:
As they find their way to the Waha temple, Kobal asks, "Your 'friend'?  In a lunar temple?"

Amara stopped walking instantly, looked at Kobal and rolled her eyes "You are aware we lost at Moonbroth? Our clan scattered to the wind. Some were taken in and given homes by Lunars. My best friend took up with the lunar priestess we met in Corflu. It is unpleasant and distasteful, yet she lives. And from one perspective is a constant thorn in the lunars side making them spend resources in keeping her alive." She tilted her head to one side watching Kobal closely "Now...are we going to have a problem with this?" she asked, almost daring him to say yes.


Kobal:
He's just had two meals, but Kobal's always ready to eat.  He gives Amara an 'it can't hurt' look and starts to walk towards the doorway.   Mostali magic doesn't sound so safe, though...  As he heads in, he says to the man "So you're Dedra yourself?"

Amara followed Kobal in. "Beer?" she looked mildly disgusted "Don't you have a proper drink like khumiss? I mean bison burger will do in a pinch, but rhino steak is far superior" she said teasing Kobal.
GM
GM, 11047 posts
Fri 9 Feb 2018
at 10:17
  • msg #214

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bison Burgers

Kobal:
  As he heads in, he says to the man "So you're Dedra yourself?"


"Me? No, I was born just across the street in that house there. That said some of my best friends are Bison riders."


Amara Brightsky:
Amara followed Kobal in. "Beer?" she looked mildly disgusted "Don't you have a proper drink like khumiss? I mean bison burger will do in a pinch, but rhino steak is far superior" she said teasing Kobal.


"We sell kumiss for sure" answers the man. Come in and stake a seat..."

He escorts both braves into the courtyard where there's low tables aplenty to sit at. Beer and Kumiss are brought to the table almost immediately and the food follows shortly.

Two large flat breads opened and filled with freshly cooked Bison meat patties. Bowls of condiments and greens are also placed on the table to heap upon the food if needed.

"Enjoy..."

In the centre of the courtyard the odd bronze machine sits, glistening with blood and bone meal, one end open and waiting like a mouth.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3575 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Sat 10 Feb 2018
at 01:06
  • msg #215

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara watched the contraption carefully before sitting at the table. "That's not a Mostali thing is it? The last one we met was reasonably hard to kill." She looked at the food dubiously before trying it "It's not too bad." she was finally willing to admit to Kobal "Not rhino good obviously, but close enough." she only took one quick drink of the khumis before making a face "They don't know how to make khumiss properly." her nostrils flared in disgust "I'm not the worlds greatest fan of beer, but it has to be better than the khumiss."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 01:27, Sat 10 Feb 2018.
Kobal
player, 2049 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Sat 10 Feb 2018
at 01:21
  • msg #216

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Going to the Waha Temple...

Amara Brightsky:
Amara stopped walking instantly, looked at Kobal and rolled her eyes "You are aware we lost at Moonbroth? Our clan scattered to the wind. Some were taken in and given homes by Lunars. My best friend took up with the lunar priestess we met in Corflu. It is unpleasant and distasteful, yet she lives. And from one perspective is a constant thorn in the lunars side making them spend resources in keeping her alive." She tilted her head to one side watching Kobal closely "Now...are we going to have a problem with this?" she asked, almost daring him to say yes.


"Ah, that's right," Kobal said.  "I'd forgotten you told us before.  Corflu seems like a like a long time ago, with all we have done since.  Hopefully your friend can rejoin the clan in future."

Bison Burgers

GM:
Kobal:
  As he heads in, he says to the man "So you're Dedra yourself?"


"Me? No, I was born just across the street in that house there. That said some of my best friends are Bison riders."


Kobal looks where the man points.  A non-descript building.  Many of them look the same to him in this place.  He tries to imagine what it would be like living in the same place, same tent, for his whole life.

GM:
He escorts both braves into the courtyard where there's low tables aplenty to sit at. Beer and Kumiss are brought to the table almost immediately and the food follows shortly.

Two large flat breads opened and filled with freshly cooked Bison meat patties. Bowls of condiments and greens are also placed on the table to heap upon the food if needed.

"Enjoy..."

In the centre of the courtyard the odd bronze machine sits, glistening with blood and bone meal, one end open and waiting like a mouth.


Kobal goes for the food first.  The meat and bread aren't bad, and the condiments are different from what he's used to, they don't detract from the basic taste of meat.

"Of course," he says, turning to Amara, burger in hand, "an animal that you've raided tastes best, but rhinos would be too expensive to sell here, being so rare.  You know, I think Hoskar mentioned this place to us when we were making our way to Pavis."

Amara is right that khumiss is usually better than beer, except perhaps here.  Though he's sure he can learn to like it if he drinks enough of it.  He holds on to his beer, in case she starts to make eyes at his mug.

Halfway through his burger, he calls to the man and asks how the Mostali contraption works.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:22, Sat 10 Feb 2018.
Supervisor Serat
NPC, 2 posts
Sage
Mon 12 Feb 2018
at 09:19
  • msg #217

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hoskar performs another small bow of thanks and murmurs gratitude for the Supervisor's munificence, then his brow furrows in thought at the Supervisor's question.

The information is difficult. Much of it I would not have believed if I had been told by another and had I not been there.

He squares his shoulders and faces up to the implications of what he has begun.

With apologies, I must answer a question with a question. Does the name, "Ar-grat"...or was it "Ar-cat"?...linked to the title, "White Lion" mean anything to you? If it does, my tale might have some credence; otherwise it will all seem very odd indeed though it would ease my mind to think the city forewarned even of what sounds improbable. Even to the extent I told the gate staff I had something to tell about Basmoli, but I'm not sure I was believed.


The supervisor shakes her head "I have no knowledge of what you speak of. When you deal with the scribe have him write down what you have on the subject and I will peruse it when I have the time. I shall then contact you....Know is there anything else?"
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2780 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Mon 12 Feb 2018
at 10:02
  • msg #218

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Knowledge Temple

Hoskar nods in acceptance.

I will do as you say, Supervisor. My thanks for your time and generosity.

From me, that is all. I believe my friend has something he would seek to sell, something that may have interest for knowledge, but I am unclear whether that is business to trouble you with, or business we can transact with your scribe.

He turns to Henal to see if his comrade want to add anything.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:45, Mon 12 Feb 2018.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3934 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Mon 12 Feb 2018
at 12:15
  • msg #219

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bob's Bison Burgers

Stepping through the doorway Ohanzee looks about the place taking in groups, nomad and otherwise and then spots Kobal and Amara.

Making his way over he finds a seat on the now familiar benches that the town folk seem to like so much. "Missed much?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:16, Mon 12 Feb 2018.
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1615 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Mon 12 Feb 2018
at 14:40
  • msg #220

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

On the way to the Temple

Henal speaks softly to Hoskar. I found this scroll on snakeskin in the Yelmalion tower and the sages we traveled with wanted to buy it. Do you think you can help me get a good price?


At the Knowledge Temple

Henal saysthere is one more thing, an item i got on our journey that the sages we traveled with said to bring.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:40, Mon 12 Feb 2018.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2784 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Mon 12 Feb 2018
at 16:53
  • msg #221

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar smiles as recognition dawns on him.

Ah yes. of course he murmurs. The snakeskin.

Actually, Supervisor, we might need to trouble you over this - if I'm any judge it's quite a valuable piece to the right person: maybe a bit above your staff's range of payment authority.

I'm no expert on these, but it's clearly an old thing, old and maybe forgotten knowledge. I don't think the sun worshipers use snakeskin for their writings now, and the circumstances in which we found it suggest its information might not usually be available.
We thought you might want the first chance at it. Your apprentices certainly thought the temple would have an interest.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3577 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 13 Feb 2018
at 00:29
  • msg #222

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara looked at her khumiss and then at Ohanzee "This khumiss is about as sour as your attitude." she lifted some of the burger up "But the meat isn't bad. Pretty tasty for bison."
GM
GM, 11064 posts
Tue 13 Feb 2018
at 08:57
  • msg #223

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bison Burgers

Kobal is told to wait five minutes as the grinder would be started then. Whilst they wait Ohanzee's order is taken and delivered and he's just getting stuck in when two men carry a side of Bison over to the large Mostali machine. A man, perhaps the owner, wearing a heavily engraved apron walks up and places both hands on the metal surface whilst whispering ancient words of power.

On the final syllable the machine cranks into life, with whatever is in side whirring and clanking noisily so that it momentarily drowns out the sounds of fighting from next door.

With a loud groan of exertion the two men begin to feed the carcass into the wide funnel/mouth at one end as the apron wearer moves several baskets to the other.

The meat is pulled into the machine, ground noisily inside and then spurted out at the other end in a torrent of finally minced Bison...
Broosta
NPC, 2 posts
Daughter of Pavis
Tue 13 Feb 2018
at 09:01
  • msg #224

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The knowledge Temple

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hoskar smiles as recognition dawns on him.

Ah yes. of course he murmurs. The snakeskin.

Actually, Supervisor, we might need to trouble you over this - if I'm any judge it's quite a valuable piece to the right person: maybe a bit above your staff's range of payment authority.

I'm no expert on these, but it's clearly an old thing, old and maybe forgotten knowledge. I don't think the sun worshipers use snakeskin for their writings now, and the circumstances in which we found it suggest its information might not usually be available.
We thought you might want the first chance at it. Your apprentices certainly thought the temple would have an interest.

The snakeskin is unravelled gently on to a long wooden bench and is soon the centre of attention of all present in the hall. Quills are put down and ink spilt as scribes rush over to see what has been discovered. An elderly Sage, head held high with authority is summoned and he looks over the scroll, occasionally gazing over at Hoskar and Henal.

Broosta joins the two braves "Seems you've stirred up the temple...Any idea what it is?"
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2785 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Tue 13 Feb 2018
at 11:08
  • msg #225

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

In reply to Broosta (msg # 224):

Hoskar risks a grin.

Valuable he chirrups. Easy to spot: you don't see a stir like this in here every day.

I imagine it's from the secrets of a long-dead sun priest he adds more soberly. Likely not something a Lightbringer would usually get sight of.

He leans in and adds more quietly the Supervisor didn't seem that interested in my current information, though I'll give it to the scribe as instructed: when this bit of business is settled, may I have a few moments of your time to hear me tell of something we saw out there that's worrying me for the safety of the city?
Broosta
NPC, 3 posts
Daughter of Pavis
Tue 13 Feb 2018
at 11:24
  • msg #226

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

Hoskar Two-Feather:
He leans in and adds more quietly the Supervisor didn't seem that interested in my current information, though I'll give it to the scribe as instructed: when this bit of business is settled, may I have a few moments of your time to hear me tell of something we saw out there that's worrying me for the safety of the city?


"That I can. Unless it is an immediate life or death situation you may come to the city administration buildings midday tomorrow. I have a meeting there before hand."
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3935 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Tue 13 Feb 2018
at 12:11
  • msg #227

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bob's Bison Burgers
Amara Brightsky:
Amara looked at her khumiss and then at Ohanzee "This khumiss is about as sour as your attitude." she lifted some of the burger up "But the meat isn't bad. Pretty tasty for bison."

Ohanzee grins his familiar grin "Really? Sounds like it'll be too sweet for my taste then. I know you like things sweet though, otherwise you'd not have married me!" and chuckles as he bites down on his bison burger.

He almost  chokes though when the Mostali machine cranks up and shudders remembering the mess that was made of the women at the Trading Post.

"Did you find any where sacred to Waha in this place?" he asks.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2787 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Tue 13 Feb 2018
at 16:55
  • msg #228

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Broosta:
The Knowledge Temple

"That I can. Unless it is an immediate life or death situation you may come to the city administration buildings midday tomorrow. I have a meeting there before hand."


Smiling thankfully, Hoskar murmurs not urgent that I know of, just possibly a future thing. My thanks, doing his best to keep this aside low-key and not interfere with Henal's snakeskin sale.
Supervisor Serat
NPC, 3 posts
Sage
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 08:01
  • msg #229

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

The supervisor returns, an odd look on her face "The scroll you possess is most interesting. Do you..eh...have a price in mind?"
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3936 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 09:09
  • msg #230

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bob's Bison Burgers

Ohanzee catches the attention of one of the feeders of the machine on his way back and asks "What about the bones, what does it do with them?"

Listening to the response he then asks loudly to those near, the combination of kumiss, ale and beer making him feel quite merry though not legless drunk by now "Anyone got anything to play? Give me any instrument even anything that can make a sound and I'll play it for you! "
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2788 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 09:24
  • msg #231

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

In reply to Supervisor Serat (msg # 229):

Hoskar's smile is positively beatific by now.

Well he remarks I am originally thinking we might get a couple of thousand for it, what with its age and rarity and the large market for this sort of thing. You, the folks round the back of this place, the sun folks themselves, their enemies, curiosity collectors, and so forth. We can always take it back south and sell to foreigners too - that's the joy of moving around, you know. Met a strange collector on our travels who'd likely be interested.

But then, you've gone and made it so obvious it's of vast interest to you - never seen such a stir - that maybe I underestimated...

...no. That's not fair, is it? Can't drive the price up on that. Better it goes to a Lightbringer.

His smile remains, but he's standing more upright now, alert.

Couple of thou was my estimate. Steep, I know, but it's a nice informative piece. And did you have an offer in mind?
This message was last edited by the player at 18:23, Thu 15 Feb 2018.
Supervisor Serat
NPC, 4 posts
Sage
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 09:37
  • msg #232

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Couple of thou was my estimate. Steep, I know, but it's a nice informative piece. And did you have an offer in mind?


""That err sounds acceptable...Cash or credit?"
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2790 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 09:48
  • msg #233

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Supervisor Serat:
The Knowledge Temple

""That err sounds acceptable...Cash or credit?"


Eyes twinkling at the ease of all this, Hoskar turns to Henal. It's your piece he observes. Best price I can get you. Your decision on payment terms. If you go for some of the price in credit or training or information, you might get a bit extra value - costs the temple less to pay in suchlike stuff.

They know it, of course, and they know we know it too.
GM
GM, 11080 posts
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 14:31
  • msg #234

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bob's Bison Burgers

Ohanzee Shappa:
Ohanzee catches the attention of one of the feeders of the machine on his way back and asks "What about the bones, what does it do with them?"


"Grinds them into dust" answers the man "Magic eh?"

Ohanzee Shappa:
Listening to the response he then asks loudly to those near, the combination of kumiss, ale and beer making him feel quite merry though not legless drunk by now "Anyone got anything to play? Give me any instrument even anything that can make a sound and I'll play it for you! "


"Ah shut up nomad" replies one local from where he sits amongst a half dozen of his mates. Workers from the nearby warehouses perhaps.

"If you want to sing go next door and sing to the Bull men."
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1616 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 19:13
  • msg #235

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple
Hoskar Two-Feather:
Eyes twinkling at the ease of all this, Hoskar turns to Henal. It's your piece he observes. Best price I can get you. Your decision on payment terms. If you go for some of the price in credit or training or information, you might get a bit extra value - costs the temple less to pay in suchlike stuff.

They know it, of course, and they know we know it too.

Henal smiles before speaking,"I think that it can be a mixture as surely these greybeards must know many spells, but half in cash as I need trade goods".
Amara Brightsky
player, 3579 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 14 Feb 2018
at 23:12
  • msg #236

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bob's Bison Burgers
Amara watched the warehouse workers unsure as to whether or not she should take offence on Ohanzee's behalf, before shrugging "If I were them, I wouldn't want to hear your agonised caterwauling either." she grudgingly admitted.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:10, Thu 15 Feb 2018.
GM
GM, 11082 posts
Thu 15 Feb 2018
at 08:16
  • msg #237

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bob's Bison Burgers

Ohanzee is approached by one of the servers, in his hand is a small stringed instrument "Boss says you can give this a go if youse want?"
GM
GM, 11083 posts
Thu 15 Feb 2018
at 08:18
  • msg #238

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

Henal Longgrass:
Henal smiles before speaking,"I think that it can be a mixture as surely these greybeards must know many spells, but half in cash as I need trade goods".


After a bit of toing and froing Hoskar is able to get 1,500 silvers in credit and 1000 silvers in cash. The credit is for use just within the Knowledge temple and can be used for training or the purchase of spells known to Llankhor Mhy.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3938 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Thu 15 Feb 2018
at 11:32
  • msg #239

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bob's Bison Burgers
GM:
Ohanzee is approached by one of the servers, in his hand is a small stringed instrument "Boss says you can give this a go if youse want?"

With a smile Ohanzee takes the instrument and sits cross legged on the floor, a more natural position for a nomad.

He places it on his lap and plucks the strings one at a time get the feel of them, tightening one and loosening another that seem wrong.

He smiles at Amara "It seems you are out of luck My Queen!"

He starts to play, impromptu tune that is there to provide mood and backing as he starts to sing the tale of the wedding of the Earth Queen and the River King.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2794 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Thu 15 Feb 2018
at 14:08
  • msg #240

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

That went well. Suppose I'd best be seeing that scribe about my payments and my tale, then.

Leaving Henal free to choose whether to discuss his payment details further or listen in, Hoskar ambles back over to the scribe.

Hello again he opens quietly. The Supervisor directs me back to you about a couple of matters.

Apparently, my payment is to be upgraded to Article 394B from the stores, plus my details were to be taken for possible future jobs. And then I have some information to be written down for her attention.

By the way, what is Article 394B?
This message was last edited by the player at 18:25, Thu 15 Feb 2018.
GM
GM, 11087 posts
Thu 15 Feb 2018
at 17:20
  • msg #241

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple
Hoskar Two-Feather:
Hello again he opens quietly. The Supervisor directs me back to you about a couple of matters.

Apparently, my payment is to be upgraded to Article 394B from the stores, plus my details were to be taken for possible future jobs. And then I have some information to be written down for her attention.

By the way, what is Article 394B?


The scribe summons over a teenage boy, has a whispered conversation and sends him scurrying off. Turning back to Hoskar the scribe nods "We'll see in a moment as I have no idea. Whilst we wait you can dictate to me your news...*Sigh*"

After Hoskar has been speaking about the Basmoli for several minutes the young boy returns to deposit a small bronze tube on the table between the two men. It's surface is covered in magical sigils.

"Ah 394B. It's a matrix to detect magic. All yours and could you sign here...here....here....and----here."

A small scroll is placed before Hoskar and a quill offered.

"Put the tube to your eye and you'll see anything magic within range once you've activated it."
GM
GM, 11090 posts
Fri 16 Feb 2018
at 08:07
  • msg #242

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bob's Bison Burgers

For the most part Ohanzee's song playing and story is met with interest, that is except for the warehouse workers who finish their food and leave on mass, with several grotty backward glances.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2796 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Fri 16 Feb 2018
at 09:01
  • msg #243

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge temple

In reply to GM (msg # 241):

Noting the scribe's sigh, Hoskar raises his eyebrows with a sympathetic look. Yes. I imagine it's grim neglecting your own interests for this stuff. I'll keep it as brief as I can.

So. The information.

Out on one of those seasonal serp...ah...sorry...rivers northwest of the Bison Grasslands a spirit has opened its way to an ancient rock-cut Basmoli temple. Full of nasties: reanimated sacrificial victims mostly. Damn temple vanished after the spirit left it, too. It's the most powerful spirit we have ever encountered. Killed a man who had mastered the water rune - priest I think - like he was a powerless babe in arms, possessed my friend, jumped to another friend so clean we couldn't even detect it. Last seen at an oasis between there and here. Might be coming here. Don't know.

Know it's Basmoli. What worries me isn't just that it seems to kill for the fun of it. Took down some birds just because it could, damn predator. It's more. We had a shaman with us then. We spoke to a pretty damn powerful green age spirit then. It's what our spirit told us of that other malign spirit that gives me the creeps. The malign spirit's name is Ar-cat, or Ar-grat...hang on that's not quite right. Heard it in a different language... Ar-Grath. That was the other name and our spirit said three things about it:

"I heard it whisper its name and my heart was touched with fear".

Our possessed friend had "become Basmol, become death personified".

And the prophecy: "the spirit will become the unifier of the Basmoli race".

Put those together, and it's trouble or I'm a Durulz. You go up against a Basmoli horde and either you kill the lot or your last sight in this world is your guts in the sand. If you hear of those names around here, my advice is to run and hide unless you have a god with you, or someone who can call one.

He smiles wanly. Hope that wasn't too much of your time. If any of it hits your interests, feel free to ask me more. Otherwise, I can let you get on till my friend finishes dickering over payments.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:02, Fri 16 Feb 2018.
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3940 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Fri 16 Feb 2018
at 12:44
  • msg #244

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bob's Bison Burgers

Ohanzee finishes and rising hands the instrument back to the server before looking at the other two "And that gives me an idea."

He then heads for the sounds of the Bull Worshipers fighting next door.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:56, Fri 16 Feb 2018.
GM
GM, 11093 posts
Fri 16 Feb 2018
at 14:49
  • msg #245

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge temple
Hoskar Two-Feather:
He smiles wanly. Hope that wasn't too much of your time. If any of it hits your interests, feel free to ask me more. Otherwise, I can let you get on till my friend finishes dickering over payments.


The scribe nods, points to the matrix and rolls up the newly filled scroll. "Supervisor will be in touch, don't forget the matrix and good day to you....NEXT!"

Nearby Henal has been handed a note of credit and a large sack of coin, he's informed that guards can be hired to escort him to his lodgings, to avoid any possible muggings.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2797 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Fri 16 Feb 2018
at 16:56
  • msg #246

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

With a nod to the scribe, Hoskar sweeps the matrix safely into a pouch, tieing it off with quite an elaborate and probably overdone knot, before mocching back towards Henal. That is a lot of cash and is liable to turn a head or seven he observes. A guard or two is an excellent idea. One can never be too careful in this man's town.
GM
GM, 11096 posts
Sat 17 Feb 2018
at 09:40
  • msg #247

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bob's Bison Burgers

As he is want to do Ohanzee vanishes from the inn, leaving Amara and Kobal with the bill...

Several minutes later there's the sound of whistles, armoured people running and the odd shout.
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1618 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Sat 17 Feb 2018
at 17:53
  • msg #248

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

In reply to Hoskar Two-Feather (msg # 246):

Henal looks at Hoskar "guards would be good, but would you know who to trust?"
GM
GM, 11098 posts
Sat 17 Feb 2018
at 19:07
  • msg #249

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge Temple

Hoskar can see two of Govoran’s Men standing in the hall, Orlanthi mercenaries, loyal to Govoran Garhound no less. A young apprentice is speaking to them whilst pointing at the two nomad braves.

With a nod both men approach "We hear you need an escort? One silver each non negotiable. Ten if there's bother."
Kobal
player, 2052 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Sun 18 Feb 2018
at 01:20
  • msg #250

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Bison Burgers

Ohanzee Shappa:
Making his way over he finds a seat on the now familiar benches that the town folk seem to like so much. "Missed much?"


"Nope," says Kobal, between bites and gulps of beer.

Ohanzee Shappa:
"Did you find any where sacred to Waha in this place?" he asks.


"Yep," says Kobal, between gulps of beer and bites.

GM:
Ohanzee Shappa:
Ohanzee catches the attention of one of the feeders of the machine on his way back and asks "What about the bones, what does it do with them?"


"Grinds them into dust" answers the man "Magic eh?"


"Did the Mostali make this for you," Kobal asks the man, "or did you find it?"  He wonders whether the original purpose of this thing was different...

Ohanzee Shappa:
Ohanzee finishes and rising hands the instrument back to the server before looking at the other two "And that gives me an idea."

He then heads for the sounds of the Bull Worshipers fighting next door.


Kobal looks up, but it's too late.  The Raven is already out the door.  He looks at Amara with a resigned face.  "We'd better go pull him out of the fire."  He asks the man the cost of the meal and pays.
GM
GM, 11101 posts
Sun 18 Feb 2018
at 13:26
  • msg #251

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

On the Streets

Kobal and Amara follow the noise, turning left onto  People's way and then Rhino Alley, where they bump into a Watch Patrol picking up a bunch of busted up locals from the floor.

Both braves recognise the injured men as the warehouse workers from before.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2798 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Sun 18 Feb 2018
at 20:11
  • msg #252

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

GM:
The Knowledge Temple

Hoskar can see two of Govoran’s Men standing in the hall, Orlanthi mercenaries, loyal to Govoran Garhound no less. A young apprentice is speaking to them whilst pointing at the two nomad braves.

With a nod both men approach "We hear you need an escort? One silver each non negotiable. Ten if there's bother."

Hoskar grins yet again, happy to be in a milieu where he has comfort. Done. The man who 'tyries on protection is a fool. I am adding another couple if we get to Becx's with no trouble. In memory of hospitality at Garhound.
Kobal
player, 2054 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 02:13
  • msg #253

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

On the Streets

GM:
Kobal and Amara follow the noise, turning left onto  People's way and then Rhino Alley, where they bump into a Watch Patrol picking up a bunch of busted up locals from the floor.

Both braves recognise the injured men as the warehouse workers from before.


Kobal continues on towards the noise, not wanting to linger where the Watch Patrol are.  "I'd wager Ohanzee was the cause of this," he mutters to Amara.
GM
GM, 11104 posts
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 09:25
  • msg #254

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Rhino Alley
Kobal:
Kobal continues on towards the noise, not wanting to linger where the Watch Patrol are.  "I'd wager Ohanzee was the cause of this," he mutters to Amara.


Kobal realises that this is the source of all the noise.  The babble of locals who have gathered, the shouts of Watchmen and the groans of injured workers.

Several of the Watchmen look up as Kobal and Amara enter the Alley.

One of the workers, the man who had complained about Ohanzee, currently being helped up, points at the two nomads "It was them...Those two did us over!"
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1619 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 12:54
  • msg #255

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge temple

In reply to Hoskar Two-Feather (msg # 252):

Henal takes out the coins to pay the guards. "Better to be safe than take a chance here".
Kobal
player, 2057 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 16:49
  • msg #256

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Rhino Alley

GM:
Several of the Watchmen look up as Kobal and Amara enter the Alley.

One of the workers, the man who had complained about Ohanzee, currently being helped up, points at the two nomads "It was them...Those two did us over!"


"No we didn't," says Kobal firmly and moves on.  If the Watch make a move, he'll have to explain things in more detail, but for now he'd rather not be connected to these workers or whatever Ohanzee might have caused.
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2803 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 16:50
  • msg #257

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The Knowledge temple

Henal Longgrass:
Henal takes out the coins to pay the guards. "Better to be safe than take a chance here".


Agreed says Hoskar in cheery tones, but anyone watching him will notice he is already looking around passers-by carefully, alert in case of trouble.

So. Back to Becx's it is. And the quicker the better for these guys' next job too.
GM
GM, 11112 posts
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 18:22
  • msg #258

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Hoskar Two-Feather:
The Knowledge temple

Henal Longgrass:
Henal takes out the coins to pay the guards. "Better to be safe than take a chance here".


Agreed says Hoskar in cheery tones, but anyone watching him will notice he is already looking around passers-by carefully, alert in case of trouble.

So. Back to Becx's it is. And the quicker the better for these guys' next job too.


The guards are alert too. One of them replies to Hoskar "We'll be off duty after this for a while. Then we're at Geo's for the early evening."

"If it's okay by you we'll take Sword street as it's the safest way."
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2804 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Mon 19 Feb 2018
at 22:13
  • msg #259

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

The knowledge temple

Sounds a good way to me. Barring Lilina tossing someone out, it used to be as safe as any Hoskar agrees.

He adds still quieter Geo's, you say? My plans were for looking up Lilina first night off but I am here with a blue-armed man we are best calling my...ahem...Little Brother among others. He does like to see all places. Nomads welcome? Or best avoid?
This message was last edited by the player at 22:15, Mon 19 Feb 2018.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3581 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 03:32
  • msg #260

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara looked at the workers "Nah, it wasn't us. Wouldn't need two of us to do this. Besides we were busy having bison burger. With a great many people watching us." Amara smirked "But it does bring to mind an old saying in the rhino people. Drawing a rhinos attention is only a good thing if you can run faster than it can. It seems as though for whatever reason, you couldn't run faster." she turned to the guards "We can sort this nonsense however quickly you wish. Bring us to a truthseeker. If we lie, we pay, if we do not, they do."
Kobal
player, 2059 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 05:03
  • msg #261

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Rhino Alley


Kobal looks back a moment and says, "Besides, if it was us, why is it we only just turned up? And why would we come back to whatever happened here?" He continues walking away.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:09, Sat 24 Feb 2018.
GM
GM, 11113 posts
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 08:39
  • msg #262

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Rhino Alley

The watchman gives Amara and Kobal a look that takes them in and then clubs the worker over the head "Shut up arsehole, had enough of your shite last week."

Then turning to the two nomads "This is a dead end, where you trying to get too?"
GM
GM, 11114 posts
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 08:43
  • msg #263

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Walking to Becx

Hoskar Two-Feather:
Sounds a good way to me. Barring Lilina tossing someone out, it used to be as safe as any Hoskar agrees.

He adds still quieter Geo's, you say? My plans were for looking up Lilina first night off but I am here with a blue-armed man we are best calling my...ahem...Little Brother among others. He does like to see all places. Nomads welcome? Or best avoid?


"It's for Sartarites only, unless you have business with Gorovan Garhound."

Hoskar and Henal have made it to the corner of Sword street and Blue street uneventfully when they both spy Melock and Grundar also making their way back to Becx's house.

In the near distance, somewhere in the Farmer's quarter watch whistles blow.
Melock
player, 4547 posts
Bison
Raven
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 09:11
  • msg #264

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Walking to Becx

When he sees Henal and Hoskar, Melock smiles and walks over to them, "Fancy meeting you two here." He looks the guards up and down, "You tell me to keep out of trouble and you're the one being escorted back home, what did you do?"
Hoskar Two-Feather
Player, 2805 posts
Rhino clan (Sky Watchers)
Condor
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 10:22
  • msg #265

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Walking to Becx

In reply to Melock (msg # 264):

Having thanked the guards for their tip, still keeping a careful watch around him, making sure not to be overheard, Hoskar chuckles at Melock's question.

Us? We do quite nicely. Just a precaution.

The laugh is struck from him at the sound of the whistles. And now we move it along home, I think. Much as I like our guards I would rather not pay extra for dealing with trouble.
Melock
player, 4548 posts
Bison
Raven
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 10:58
  • msg #266

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Melock notices Hoskar look around at the crowds and so walks next to him and puts an arm round his shoulders, "With Grundar and me here do you need the guards?" He drops his voice, "Surely having them here," Melock nods towards the guards, "just draws attention that you have something worth stealing?"
GM
GM, 11116 posts
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 11:18
  • msg #267

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Walking to Becx

The guards had moved to stop Melock and Grundar, but stop when they realise that they are friends.

"I suggest we continue..."

Becx's house is a few metres away.
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1620 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 14:42
  • msg #268

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In reply to Melock (msg # 266):

Henal laughs"trust you to think that Melock. Now let's get back and relax away from the crowds".
Melock
player, 4549 posts
Bison
Raven
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 14:57
  • msg #269

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Henal Longgrass:
Henal laughs"trust you to think that Melock. Now let's get back and relax away from the crowds".


Still smiling, Melock shakes his head, "In a place like this, it's the only way to think." Looking closely at Henal, "That bag looks heavy, would you me to carry it for you?"
Henal Longgrass
Player, 1621 posts
Bison Rider
Thunder Bird
Tue 20 Feb 2018
at 19:52
  • msg #270

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Henal grins and replies "No, its not heavy with what it will do for us".
Amara Brightsky
player, 3582 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 21 Feb 2018
at 04:21
  • msg #271

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Rhino Alley

Amara shrugged "It's our first day in the city. We're out and about and taking a look around when we heard a commotion here." she raised an eyebrow "I'm getting from inference, that we probably should not take notice of such things from now on. I have no problem with that."
GM
GM, 11124 posts
Thu 22 Feb 2018
at 10:45
  • msg #272

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Rhino Alley

The alley truly is a dead end or is at least to those not familiar with the ways of the city. The sounds of struggle has abated now that the watch has led off the troublemakers, enabling the two braves to hear was sounds like Ohanzee singing somewhere nearby
Amara Brightsky
player, 3584 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Fri 23 Feb 2018
at 04:34
  • msg #273

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara glanced at Kobal with the eyes of the weary once they'd left the commotion on the street. <Blue>"I swear that if there's any possibility of causing mischief within a thousand miles, my husband is in the middle of it." she led Kobal towards the sounds of the singing.
GM
GM, 11127 posts
Fri 23 Feb 2018
at 08:25
  • msg #274

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In search of a Raven

Amara and Kobal, with some help from the locals are soon standing outside a pretty shabby looking tavern. From inside comes the bellows and cheers of perhaps a score or more drunk Praxians. The two braves had been told that the place was called The Stomp And Brew and frequented by Storm Bull cultists.

There's no sound of Ohanze singing, perhaps he's having a break.
Kobal
player, 2062 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Sat 24 Feb 2018
at 02:16
  • msg #275

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In search of a Raven

Kobal has a quick look around, listening as well for music played badly, lyrics murdered, or vocal objections.  No sight nor sound to suggest Ohanzee.

"I'm tired of chasing the Raven," he says to Amara.  "I'm going to head to the Waha temple now.  I'm sure he'll find his own way back.  Even if the people here have to chase him back there."
GM
GM, 11134 posts
Sat 24 Feb 2018
at 12:05
  • msg #276

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In search of a Raven

Quickly poking their heads indoors Kobal and Amara find themselves being observed by a score of very drunk Storm Bull followers, who on realising that the new arrivals are not locals but in fact nomads, greet them with a rousing cheer


"WAHAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

There's nobody else inside, with even the staff seemingly hiding for the moment

"Come, grab a seat and join us" hollers one of the braves.

"Look she has the same clan markings as the singer." crows another.

"Can you sing too?"

and so on...
Amara Brightsky
player, 3585 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Sat 24 Feb 2018
at 22:23
  • msg #277

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara greeted the Urox with a smile. "Ah, you have met my husband then? I can indeed sing...and dance, but I feel that perhaps my performance would not be as good as his. He can tell stories too. Did any of you happen to know where he went?"
GM
GM, 11136 posts
Sun 25 Feb 2018
at 07:53
  • msg #278

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In search of a Raven

On mass the Storm Bull worshippers point to a nearby doorway covered with a length of material.
Kobal
player, 2064 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Mon 26 Feb 2018
at 04:14
  • msg #279

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In search of a Raven

GM:
On mass the Storm Bull worshippers point to a nearby doorway covered with a length of material.


Given they suddenly became the centre of attention they had no choice but to enter the tavern.  Though it's nice to be back among nomads as well.  Kobal strides to the doorway indicated, along the way, giving a friendly back slap, headbutt or hand clasp to the cheery Uroxi.
GM
GM, 11137 posts
Mon 26 Feb 2018
at 07:08
  • msg #280

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In search of a Raven

Pushing back the material reveals a room with a bed, a naked lady and a naked Ohanzee.

They look to be having fun...
Kobal
player, 2066 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Mon 26 Feb 2018
at 08:00
  • msg #281

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

In search of a Raven

GM:
Pushing back the material reveals a room with a bed, a naked lady and a naked Ohanzee.

They look to be having fun...


Kobal rolls his eyes, pulls the curtain back into place, and says to Amara, "I found your husband."

He walks back out of the tavern and continues his way to the Waha temple.
GM
GM, 11138 posts
Mon 26 Feb 2018
at 09:27
  • msg #282

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Praxian Temple

Kobal finds the temple easily enough, the magical emanations it gives off visible to one of it's worshippers. The corral outside is filled with Holy beasts, the animals walking slowly around Totems set into the ground, whilst several initiates look on, sending prayers to their gods with power filled chants.

The air is thick with familiar incenses and as he approaches the unguarded main door, it swings open by itself.  It takes a few moments for his eyes to adjust but he sees several people standing just inside as if waiting for him.

"Kobal of the Wandering Rangers?" enquires an elderly priestess of Eiritha. Her companions are several Waha Initiates of advanced age.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:04, Mon 26 Feb 2018.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3586 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 27 Feb 2018
at 03:18
  • msg #283

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara's lips thinned as she opened the curtains "So I go out looking to save your hide and what do I find? You're cavorting with other ladies and without asking my permission? When I have other husbands I will be asking them to beat the living daylights out of you as I don't trust myself to stop myself short of killing you. Next time you get yourself into trouble, you can get yourself out of it without my help, Ohanzee. You aren't Ohanzee BlueArm, you're Ohanzee the Helpless, Ohanzee the Heartless, Ohanzee the Weak willed. The only story of your bravery will be of your willingness to do this when you're married to me. Now leave the poor girl alone and come with me before I kick you all the way back to where we're staying."
Kobal
player, 2069 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Tue 27 Feb 2018
at 03:33
  • msg #284

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Praxian Temple

GM:
Kobal finds the temple easily enough, the magical emanations it gives off visible to one of it's worshippers. The corral outside is filled with Holy beasts, the animals walking slowly around Totems set into the ground, whilst several initiates look on, sending prayers to their gods with power filled chants.

The air is thick with familiar incenses and as he approaches the unguarded main door, it swings open by itself.  It takes a few moments for his eyes to adjust but he sees several people standing just inside as if waiting for him.

"Kobal of the Wandering Rangers?" enquires an elderly priestess of Eiritha. Her companions are several Waha Initiates of advanced age.


Surprised, Kobal bows before the priestess, with his fist over his heart.  "Yes, Wise One.  The Great Khan and Mother have guided my path here."  He touches the helmet he's wearing.  "This is the helmet of Emesh-Ga, the Earth Knight who leads we Wandering Rangers."
Sheela
NPC, 4 posts
High Llama
StormBull
Tue 27 Feb 2018
at 07:36
  • msg #285

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara Brightsky:
Amara's lips thinned as she opened the curtains "So I go out looking to save your hide and what do I find? You're cavorting with other ladies and without asking my permission? When I have other husbands I will be asking them to beat the living daylights out of you as I don't trust myself to stop myself short of killing you. Next time you get yourself into trouble, you can get yourself out of it without my help, Ohanzee. You aren't Ohanzee BlueArm, you're Ohanzee the Helpless, Ohanzee the Heartless, Ohanzee the Weak willed. The only story of your bravery will be of your willingness to do this when you're married to me. Now leave the poor girl alone and come with me before I kick you all the way back to where we're staying."

The woman with Ohanzee listens to Amara and then with a laugh tips the brave out of bed.
"Your wife calls Ohanzee big horn. You know where to find me."
Ohanzee Shappa
player, 3952 posts
Rhino Rider
Raven Follower
Tue 27 Feb 2018
at 08:54
  • msg #286

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Ohanzee looks up from the floor at Amara through bleary eyes, his cheeks reddened but through alcohol rather than embarrassment.

"Amara my steadfast Earth Queen for a year I am as ever at your service, your capricious River King."

His smile is doppy but it looks as though there is genuine love behind the slightly unfocused eyes gazing in her direction.

He starts pulling on his leathers having obvious difficulty getting comfortable in his trews, but eventually stands, bows to Sheela with a wink and then turns and walks to Amara's side.
GM
GM, 11145 posts
Tue 27 Feb 2018
at 10:26
  • msg #287

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Praxian Temple

Kobal:
Surprised, Kobal bows before the priestess, with his fist over his heart.  "Yes, Wise One.  The Great Khan and Mother have guided my path here."  He touches the helmet he's wearing.  "This is the helmet of Emesh-Ga, the Earth Knight who leads we Wandering Rangers."

"We heard that you had arrived, son of Colnar Three Steps, I remember your Grandfather Tarabula Lightfoot, I hope he is alive and well."

"Come we shall offer prayers for your safe journey and then you must give us the news of the Wastes."

The elderly priestess, a High Llama brave, escorts Kobal around the temple, paying homage to Eiritha the cow and Waha the butcher. A sacrifice is made and prayers made. Kobal feels his Mastery rune glow and the gods smiling on him.
Kobal
player, 2070 posts
Bison clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 28 Feb 2018
at 04:00
  • msg #288

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Praxian Temple

GM:
"Come we shall offer prayers for your safe journey and then you must give us the news of the Wastes."

The elderly priestess, a High Llama brave, escorts Kobal around the temple, paying homage to Eiritha the cow and Waha the butcher. A sacrifice is made and prayers made. Kobal feels his Mastery rune glow and the gods smiling on him.


"Both my father and grandfather still ride the Wastes," Kobal smiles.  "I am grateful for your prayers, Wise One."

He tells them of the enemies of the nomads that appear to be gathering - the Basmoli they encountered, the destruction of the Big Pecker clan, the Moon worshippers in Corflu, but also of the Earth temple reborn and the oasis that has grown around it, the restoration of the Wandering Rangers, the return of spirits from ages past.

The brave joins them in their prayers to the nomad gods, donating a silver necklace  to the temple.  "Thank you for maintaining this place among these foreigners.  I will be back."  He doesn't voice the question that had been on his mind when he first met the priestess - why stay amongst these intruders, and in one place, not roaming Prax.  Instead, he takes his leave and returns to Becx's.
Amara Brightsky
player, 3587 posts
Rhino Clan
Thunder Bird
Wed 28 Feb 2018
at 05:30
  • msg #289

Re: Too the Gates and beyond....

Amara's eyes narrowed as she walked staying distinctly ahead of Ohanzee and walking swiftly enough to make it uncomfortable for him to keep pace with her as she headed back to the place where they were staying. She said not another word, remaining silent the entire time. Her stride telling everyone around how angry she was.
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