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Waterday, Fertility Week, Dark Season.

Deciding to head over to Orlgar the Middleman's office in Riverside immediately the Rangers tramp through a soft drizzle that at any other time of year would be refreshing, except for today it's cold and rather miserable. There are few people on the streets but one of the guards at the edge of Rich Hill points across to a building on the very edge of Riverside, overlooking the gate they had first entered New Pavis, nearly two weeks ago.

Standing before the doorway is a Garhound retainer, wearing a leather cape and looking rather pissed off.

His spear is levelled at the approaching braves "State your business."

After leaving Geo's Inn, Kobal walks beside Ohanzee for a moment.  "Nice of you to join us.  Did you give my regards to Tella last night?  Bwahahaha."

On being challenged by the sentry, Kobal says "We're here on business for Gorovan and the mayor.  The Wandering Rangers."  And Grundar.  "We'd like to speak to Orlgar about the trouble he's been having."  He tries to keep the annoyance (at the man's tone) from his voice.

The guard looks relieved at Kobal's answer and leans in through the opening to call for his employer

"Hey boss, some folk come to see you. No not bother they've been sent by your boss." There's a muffled reply and the guard turns to the watching braves

"In ya go. Mind yer head on the lintel...Well not you short ones obviously..."

Inside is a square room with a counter along one side, which is covered with scrolls, weighed down with round river stones. Peering at them by the light of several oil lamps is a middle aged, portly, balding man, whom Hoskar recognises as a follower of Issaries.

"Ah good, not here to rough me up then" this is said in fluent Praxian and with a warm smile. "I wasn't expecting Skywatchers and Prarie Thunderers to come a calling today. Oh and excuse me an Ostrich rider too. Big Pecker clan by the looks of it. Welcome to you all."

He hollers through another door "Celine bring food and drink. We have guests."

Through said doorway appears a tall, middle aged High Llama woman who smiles at the braves before returning back to where ever she'd been before. "Coming up my love."

Orlgar indicates that everyone should sit on the woven mats on the other side of the room. Once sat he asks "So I'm presuming that you are here to sell herd beasts?"

Henal gives the guard a hard stare on the comment about the short ones, but says nothing glad that Hoskar is there to do the talking.

He relaxes as Orlgar talks to them in Praxian and recognises their tribes. "We may be looking to trade but first we have other duties. Gorovan set us the job of sending a message to the nomads that have been roughing you up, preferably in the same manner".

Amara frowned "I thought they were just zebra riders....not nomads."

"Same difference" says Ohanzee as he casts an eye around the establishment before looking at Orlgar "Like Henal says, we've been asked to put the feat of Waha into these bullies."

"Apparently you can point them out to us and arrange for us to act as guards into the Rubble to give us an excuse get to them."

"Well there's the thing" answers Orlgar "They're Hargran the Dirty's men, who make up the Pavis Royal Guard. A nasty bunch of mercenaries, scum, thieves and bandits who ride Zebras and are based at Zebra Fort. Now your real Zebra riders hate them and are rightly annoyed by the problems they cause , tarring good folk with the same shitty brush.

It was the Badside patrol who targeted me, a particularly vile bunch of wankers, led by Jobal Lanza."

He stops as his wife enters with a tray of food and then drinks, and once she finishes serving she takes a place next to Orlgar on the floor.
This message was last updated by the player at 06:11, Sun 20 May 2018.

"Aye I can point them out alright. The Badside patrol and three men at the New Bridge Guardhouse....I'll explain more, but here... eat first...."

Whilst they eat Orlgar explains how the meat trade works...

Meat-Buying in New Pavis
The Praxian Nomads provide New Pavis with most
of its meat. Under the treaty with Dorasar, all of the
tribes are entitled to sell meat to New Pavis, but the
Sable Tribe uses its current dominance to prevent
the other tribes from trading with New Pavis except
through Sable middlemen. This trade is a primary
source of civilized goods for the Sable Tribe.
When nomads come to Pavis to sell their stock,
their leaders first go to the Meat Market. There are
many meat-buyers there, either in offices about the
square or in booths. The nomads may have sales
prearranged in town, or may sound out several
traders before striking a bargain.
Once the deal is closed, an agent of the buyer(s)
accompanies the chieftains back to the herds and
guides them to the Butchery Grounds. This is near
Badside and entails driving them to the butchers.
The animals are kept in corrals there, and the agent
will count and grade the herd. He prepares a voucher
for the chieftain; the city clerk approves the transfer
and marks out the animals for the city tax. Almost
all animal killing is done in this area, as well as the
curing, etc. The chieftain can then take his voucher
back to the Meat Market office and cash it in for
goods or money.
Once meat is ready for market it is delivered via
the Meat Path through Badside, across the bridge,
and to the meat market. There it is delivered to
butchers and other retailers who, in turn, prepare
it for sale. The other retailers may, for instance, run
food stands, peddle by foot, or own an inn.
Because the Praxian herds include animals sold
from other tribes, most meat sold is actually bison,
high llama, or impala. Although the Praxians eat herd
man, sale of herd man meat is forbidden in Badside
(although it is available if the buyer knows where to
look).

Finishing his meal, Kobal says, "Thank you for your hospitality.  So, do you have any thoughts on the best time or place to confront these men?  While taking them on at the guardhouse might mean we can deal with them all at once, I'd think they can defend better at the guardhouse.  Any particularly good place to jump the patrol?  And any thoughts on how to best send a message?  Or just the usual, direct, punch to the face?"

Having downed a bit of the food offered Temush nods to Orlgar.
Thanks for the warmth of your hearth. You call it the Badside patrol, do the Sables and the Lunars back them to patrol there? Or do they just not give a horse what goes on on that side of Zola Fel?

Later he confers with the Rangers
I guess we might need to shift our mounts out of the zebra side stabling if this Hagran's men have the run of the place

"Well Hargran the Dirty has decided to get a cut of the entire meat-buying trade in New Pavis, a potentially lucrative source of revenue for his bandit gang. Hargran has obtained permission from Sor-Eel to garrison the guardpost on the east side of the New Bridge and to patrol Badside with members of his Pavis Royal Guard. Zebra-riding thugs demand tribute from all deliveries of meat (much larger than the city tax). Those who refuse to pay get beaten up and their goods (and coin) stolen.

The problem with those at the guardhouse is that at the other end of the bridge there are Lunar soldiers. So that leaves the patrol. They reside at the the Zebra fort and each morning cross over and return before dusk. They lazily travel between Badside and the Butchery grounds, where they react to disturbances and extort payments from the local residents. They spend much of their time drinking in the Butchered Bison, a wretched tavern in Badside . A good place to ambush them, surely that is what you are being paid for to work out? Remember that near the fort they can call on reinforcements"

"Send a message? A beating like they gave me. That is what Govoran promised me."


"They have paid for the right to patrol there and the Sables do not care who patrols there, as they have cornered the market, but that said I'm sure that Khan Boronwaha can not be happy with the fact that meat sales are now less lucrative. He's a good man and one I would call friend."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:46, Sun 20 May 2018.

"We could go drinking at the butchered bison when they are there and start a fight"

Kobal frowns.  "If we thump them at Badside, it might be too easy for them to call for more guards.  Or the fight might attract more guards (or the tavern's own guards).  Maybe better to wait til they're drunk, leave Badside and are on their patrol, before jumping them.  Either scout the area and look for places for an ambush, or pose as nomads transporting animals or meat."  He thinks as he speaks.  "Or maybe both.  Some of us pose as traders at the ambush site.  The rest hide.  When the thugs try to extort those of us posing as traders, we attack from all directions."  He looks at the others for their thoughts.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:09, Sun 20 May 2018.

"There's no more guards in Badside and that shit hole of a drinking place doesn't have any either."

Orlgar's wife interrupts

"Are you the braves who are ransoming Delenda of the Arinstoli to her people?"

"Yes, that's us. Trolls got her though, so looks like we'll have to buy bye her back at the slave market first."

She nods at this but says nothing more.

Kobal looks to Melock.  "In that case, maybe a bar-room brawl would be a good solution.  Less likely to be weapons drawn."

Now that Celine has popped back into the room, the brave takes the opportunity to thank her for the food and drink.  He adds, "We will be ransoming Delenda to her clan.  But at the same time,  we bear no ill will against her.  She's been captured by troll, who plan to sell her as a slave.  We do plan to try to save her, so if you can help with that, we'd be grateful."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:49, Mon 21 May 2018.

Since leaving Geo's, Hoskar has been deep in thought.

Bar room brawl might look like happenstance, not a lesson he observes. By Issaries that's why it's tricky. Want them to know why it's happened but not who did it.

Joy of a bar-room brawl is we needn't be wearing full kit. Distinctive stuff. Trouble is how we look different-but-normal. I can just shave, but the blue arm stands out like a wind lord at the Sun Dome.

In the Rubble, we can be covered and masked but there's more chance of a death. Weapons everywhere. And unless we walk in while they ride, our mounts give us away.

I think I favour the brawl, with someone large and impressive he glances at Kobal grating out an apt threat at the end. Maybe time it just before the Uz market so we can make ourselves scarce straight afterwards? Suss it out before we come back?

Kobal smiles at the look from Hoskar.  "Yeah, I think my brawling is even better than my skill with a sword.  Besides, once we've beat them to within an inch of their lives, they'll know why its happened.  As you said, we'll just grate out an apt threat at the end.  Does it matter if they know who did it?  Whatever measures we take to try to disguise ourselves, they'll make a divination if they really want to know.  We can take care of ourselves.

"And I won't be shaving.  The Khan of Khans never taught us to shave.  That's not his way."

Still getting to grips with the dynamic of the group, Grundar has kept silent until this point, letting others lead the way, but talk of a barroom brawl is too much for him to ignore, Oh, yes, the brawl is clearly the way to go. Much more chance for us manoeuvre things to our advantage. Not only do we not have to worry about weapons so much, but they will be less sensible than usual, and maybe we can call on others to help out in a way that might not be feasible elsewhere. Sounds to me like there will be others who might be willing to lay in with an extra punch or two if they saw that things we organised and they could get away with it - they're clearly not a popular bunch...

Kobal tilts his head to the side a moment, thinking.  "If you can convince others to help, I don't see why not.  But so long as they understand they're accepting risk and won't likely be getting any reward from the Garhound clan - I expect that's only offered to the Rangers.  Depends on what these others will be demanding from us as the price of their involvement, haha."

Still smiling intently, Hoskar nods.

I am thinking no-one is caring to ask the gods if it seems like some no-nothing transients do it. And if I offer them a smoke first they maybe wake up in a sewer with broken limbs and no recollection of how it comes about. Unless someone else with a grudge finishes them as they sleep and no blame to us.

His smile become softer at Grundar's comment. And after this we must make you a permanent joining offer, I'd reckon

Henal grins "fighting in a tavern can work for me as with less space being smaller can help".

"Normally, I wouldn't think so, but there are members of the Pavis Royal Guard we'll be beating up, so I don't know how seriously they'll take it.  And Hoskar, we want them to remember why they were attacked, so too much of a smoke won't help us, haha."



Kobal looks to Grundar.  "Yes, some time we'll get back to telling you what we're about.  And you can join us, if you're willing to leave Pavis with us.  I don't know about your Deadheads joining, though, haha.  If you decide to join us, we'll initiate you into the Rangers.  But an initiation just for a bar-room brawl would seem quite... underwhelming."

"So Orlgar, you can hire us as guards to get there then? That's all we need to know now I think."

Melock nods, "You're not the only one. All those times fighting in the bachelor tent are going to come in handy."



A look of worry crosses Melock's face, "Can I ask where did you hear about that?"

"To get to Badside, why would I do that?"

"Because many of her clan are here looking for you and you fit the description."

Grundar grins excitedly at the offer to join the Rangers from Hoskar and Kobal, speaking over them as soon as it becomes clear what they're talking about, Yes! Please! Who'd have thought that such a young brave could become both a Deadhead and Ranger. To be honest, the Deadhead bit isn't that exciting, a stepping stone to other things, although one day I shall take charge and make them the group they ought to be - probably change the name too, not a great one to be honest. Talking of the 'Heads, what do you reckon, should I try and persuade a few of them to come and help with our current business. No one would know them in Badside and they could either keep look out for us or help cause some trouble within? One last hurrah before I leave them to their own devices for a bit.

Kobal looks at Ohanzee.  "I think perhaps my blue-armed friend was thinking that if you were going to Badside, then escorting you would be a good pretext for our going there.  Plus, perhaps you would've liked to have been there at the tavern when we beat up these thugs.  Adds to the message.  But that's fine, we can deliver the message ourselves."



A good point, Melock.  "I hope you won't mention this to anyone," Kobal says to Celine.  "Could interfere with our current task.  We'll sort things out with the Arinstoli in due course."



Kobal looks around at the Rangers, then says to Grundar, "If some of them want to help, that's fine.  But be discrete asking them.  We don't want word getting around.  And they'll have to accept the risk.  We'll be leaving Pavis soon enough.  They'll remain, and have to deal with the Pavis Royal Guard in future."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:28, Wed 23 May 2018.

Too true, Kobal, those are wise words, but there are some who are anything but 'deadheads', youngsters who might appreciate a chance to prove themselves and advance a little. You've heard something of my triumphant fighting fish 'heist', there were certainly some who helped me in the run up to that who could be trusted and who are ambitious enough to take the risk. If I'm off with you lot, there will be a gap for one of them to occupy for a while if they can prove themselves.

Having kicked around with them for while now, Grundar reckons he's a good enough judge of character to know who might be up for lending a hand (with an appropriate gift to say thank you) and who might be more of a liability. He does a mental run down and selects a couple who he reckons can be relied upon and heads off to see if he can find them. Not wanting to hold things up though, he'll abandon the hunt if he doesn't track them down quickly.

Amara nodded listening to everyone "Surely a few coppers thrown here and there might persuade someone to throw the guards off the scent, should any be sent our way? Besides...umm...how can I put this? The guards I've seen here aren't likely to come running at someone reporting a fight breaking out in a drinking place." she pursed her lips "I think it's easiest to hit them in the bar. Out in the rubble deaths come easy. Inside the city everyone at least pays lip service to the law and deaths attract attention. I don't think it would be that hard to deliver a message over who might be the responsible party. We don't even need to be subtle about it. Thump. Stay out of garhound business or else next time we'll catch up with you where the guards can't protect you? or am I missing something?"

Kobal nods at Grundar and Amara's words.  He looks at Orglar.  "Well, it seems it's settled then.  Unless you have any other details for us, we'll get out of your," thinning, "hair".

Still thinking hard, Hoskar murmurs works for me.

"So, we just need to make sure we don't kill anyone by accident, though there's nothing stopping us taking their gear afterwards."

Or beforehand for that matter!
...as long as its done discretely that is

Melock grins, "We could lighten their purses before we beat them up with a few games of chance." he laughs, "if we do it well enough, they might start the fight."

Henal smiles, "so that would be an initiation test for Grundar then?"

"I've seen him play, they won't stand a chance. Even if they can handle loosing, all it needs is some obvious cheating to start the fight."

In reply to Melock (msg # 41):

Hey, I never cheat!

Not obviously anyway... To ask me to do so would be to dishonour me, although, I guess this is for a good cause. He grins, Either way, I'm sure if wanted I can cause a rumble - although I thought this was not supposed to be a subtle fight, aren't they meant to know why they're being roughed up. Let me take their money, and their purses, and then let's knock some sense into them so they know we're on top all around.

"As long as one of them is awake once we've beaten them up, we can deliver our message."

With that the Wandering Rangers head off to the stables to collect their mounts, though they must wait nearly two hours as they are collected from outside the city walls. All are well fed and healthy. Death Ostrich seems to be a stable favourite.

It is now nearly three o'clock in the afternoon. The ride to the Sable camp will take a half hour, depending on how busy the gates and bridge are.

The Rangers ride out of the small gate and down the steep track towards the new Lunar bridge, where the soldiers wave them on without a second glance.  As before there's a light drizzle and as they approach the other side in single file, they can see that the three Royal Pavis guards must be sheltering in the guard post, for no one stands in their way.

"These must be the ones Orlgar mentioned," Kobal says in a low voice.  "But if we take them on now, there may be a big party waiting for us when we try to return, or try to enter Badside."  He kicks Black Hoof on past the guardhouse.

Indeed, and I've no desire to hang about in the rain, even if it is good to wash some of the Pavis grime away.

"Agreed, lets get a move on and go see the sables." He nudges Stinky forward and follows Kobal
This message was last edited by the player at 19:04, Tue 29 May 2018.

Passing the guardhouse, a square, single story building, the Rangers can see three men huddled about a small brazier, none of whom look up at the travellers. Then it's up a small track and there huddled along the huge wall of the Big Rubble is the shanty town of Badside.

Thanks to the weather it's pretty deserted and before they get closer the braves turn left towards the now visible camp of the Sables.

This time they're spotted, a half dozen riders trot out of the encampment and make their way towards the group. Armed and more than likely dangerous.

As the two groups approach each other, Kobal relaxes his grip on his lance and shield.  He reins in Black Hoof a reasonable distance in front of the Sables, lance tip pointed up to the Sky, and waits for them to stop too.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:54, Wed 30 May 2018.

Amara sat at Kobals side "I hope you know what you're doing."

"Nope," replies Kobal, still looking ahead at the approaching Sables.  "But it'll work out somehow.  I'm thinking maybe if we drop Becx's name somewhere, if necessary, that might help, since she trades with them."

In reply to Kobal (msg # 52):

Hoskar winces. No mentioning Becx if you can help it, please. If they think she's involved and there's reprisals, she'll be a sitting durulz. Stock. Shop. Dinky little fire.

In reply to Hoskar Two-Feather (msg # 53):

If anybody burns Becx's place I'll bloody well burn theirs back, and some, growls Grundar, his heckles raised, She's a good woman and has done nothing but help me since I arrived in Pavis. He stops to think a bit, Well, to be honest, I suspect she has used me a bit as well, he scratches his head thoughtfully, but that's ok, she deserved to get something out of taking a scruffy urchin like me in unannounced.

Melock pulls alongside Kobal and Amara to help present a strong first impression to the sables, "Hopefully they'll want to talk, not fight. " he drops his voice,"Are we telling them the truth about Delenda?"

In reply to Grundar (msg # 54):

Hoskar smiles gratefully. That's her alright. Noble idea, kind and so on. My thanks. Little use if her assets are up in smoke, of course. Silence is best.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 18:29, Wed 30 May 2018.

Henal pulls up his zebra muttering "No way to make a decent impression on one of these, can't wait to get back to a proper mount". Then he settles himself aiming to look fierce but not threatening with his lance and shield in hand.

Kobal nods at Hoskar's words.  "We can mention the Garhound clan if we need to, instead, perhaps."



"That depends on how much Temush feels like talking, I think," Kobal says with a slight smile.



Kobal looks over and his slight smile turns into a short laugh.  Henal looks so pitiful sitting on a small zebra, where he's normally mounted on a grand bison.  "No one forced you to do this."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:10, Thu 31 May 2018.

Melock looks over to Temush, "I think you should guard the rear Temush, just in case anyone tries to sneak up on us."

The Sables break into a gallop and circle the Wandering Rangers once before coming to a stop in front of them. Then one brave breaks off and charges, at the last moment throwing down his lance into the ground in challenge so that it stands quivering before the group.

"Who will fight me!" he shouts a sneer on his face.

These braves are from the Rock Speakers, not Delenda's clan.

Kobal keeps his eyes on the brave, with a slight smile on his face.  Although ready to kick Black Hoof forward, he holds his place a moment, waiting to see if any of the others wants to take up the challenge.

Though Melock smiles at the challenging brave, he shakes his head, "Wouldn't be a fair fight."

Grundar scowls and wonders if he should rise to the challenge. He clenches his weapons, but then resists the urge. At the moment he isn't officially one of the Rangers and he doesn't want to snub them by stealing their challenge. Besides the shadows are more his terrain.

The Sable braves starts laughing at the Rangers

"These are not warriors, they must be children lost from their clan. See, they are wet from their tears of shame."

Picking up his lance from the ground he rides back to his friends, calling back over his shoulder "You are not welcome in this camp little children. Go home behind the walls where you hide with the other settled scum."

Amara rolled her eyes at the others. "You call us children, yet it is clear to us and your...friends back there that you are the one walking away from this. Your words are as empty as your threats. We may not have seen as many years as you at this moment in time, but if you pick up the lance and face us, I can guarantee that we will be walking in this place long after your bones have turned to dust."

This pulls the brave up short. Turning his mount, he gives Amara a salute, levels his lance and charges....

Amara wasn't surprised when the brave charged instantly. Her javelin already in her hand, she only had enough time to whisper her charm and throw before the brave had already made it over half the distance towards her. Leaning over her zebra, she could almost sense the brave and his mount charging towards her, using her knees she moved the zebra to the side, hoping it was enough that whatever the brave could manage, her shield might deflect the worst of it.

The javelin catches the Sable rider in the chest, the force of the throw knocking him off his mount and on to the ground where he lies stunned but otherwise unhurt.

Amara rode alongside the mount running free, leading it by the reins back to the fallen brave "It is clear that the Rock Speakers are brave. Let us part this place as friends. We have somewhere to be, but once we're done, we would love to share some stories and khumiss with you."

Melock cheers as Amara unseats the Sable rider, "Well done Amara!"

Kobal hollers and bangs his lance against his shield, seeing Amara best the Rock Speaker brave.  He would have taunted the Rock Speakers, but it wouldn't seem appropriate given Brightsky's words.

Grundar joins the din with a playful whoop!
Perhaps there can be other challenges too when we meet again, games of chance and agility, he offers. Nothing like competition to forge a friendship.

The Sable rider brave takes the proffered reins with a smile "I bear you no ill will. You won fair and square. Come I will escort you to see our khan. Your arrival has been expected, there are many who are eager to hear about the oasis to the South and the wonders that are taking place there. But I must warn you there are others who wish you harm."

Mounting his Sable the brave waves to his companions and the Rangers are led towards the camp

Amara smiled as she handed him the reigns "This is true of almost anywhere we go, my friend. We have stories to tell beyond imagination....but you're right. A story that should be preserved until we meet your Khan." she inclined her head "Thank you for your generosity."

Henal cheers Amara's swift victory over the sable rider, but smiles at him as he speaks. "Good to see the other nomads here are not falling into city dweller's ways and welcome the greening of the land".

Kobal rides over to the defeated Sable brave.  "Your honour does you credit.  I probably would've been sour if I'd come off second best.  It's good to see Dedra so close to this city who follow the ways of Waha."
This message was last edited by the player at 08:07, Wed 06 June 2018.

Temush silently salutes Amara, but not before shaking his head tight lipped, lost in thought.

Ohanzee smiles at the outcome but holds his tongue as he listens to the welcome and warning the brave gives.

The Rangers are escorted into the Sable camp, where it is very obvious how well the Sable Nation is doing under the Lunar occupation. Tents are well made, clothes are new and there is much metal in evidence. There are few men but plenty of women and children who stop and stare at the visitors as they pass.

Winding their way between tents the party soon come to the Khan's abode, made from both animal hides and expensive dyed cloth, a totem of herd beast skulls before it. Pitched next to it is an equally impressive tent, outside of which stand several warriors, in their midst an imposing lady in the attire of an Eirithan priestess, with her female attendants. She wears much jewellery and is more than likely the Arinstoli queen, Delenda's mother.

From the other tent stride several Rune Lords and their braves...

Kobal bows in acknowledgement and deference to the Eirithan priestess, but he does not reign in Black Hoof at all as the party rides past with its Rock Speaker escort, trying to make it clear that they have another immediate purpose.

As the Rune Lords appear from the other tent, he does pull up his bison and dismount.  Standing before the elders, he tries to focus on the person whom he hopes is Khan Boronwaha, but he waits to see if any of the Rock Speakers who accompanied them will indicate the Khan by reporting to him.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:55, Fri 08 June 2018.

From out of the midst of the Sable Lords strides an imposing man, wearing  a decorated hide cloak, bronze mail and a fancy Sable horned helmet.

He stops before the Rangers, waiting for them to dismount and state their business. From the two tents stream more braves, who move to encircle the strangers.

Kobal faces the man who's stepped forward.  Having stowed away his lance and shield, he bows to the man, fist over this chest.  "Wise One, may the Khan of Khans grant you a straight path.  I am Kobal, son of Colnar Three Steps, of the Prairie Thunder clan.  My comrades and I, known as the Wandering Rangers, have come to pay our respects, and to exchange news from Prax."

"State your news Kobal, son of Colnar Three Steps. I know of your grandfather and I see you carry the mark of Waha on your forehead. Who is the spirit that protects you and your friends?"

There is little warmth in his address but at least Kobal sees some respect in the Khan's eyes.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:55, Fri 08 June 2018.

"The spirit is Emesh-Ga, the Earth Knight from past Ages, the lord and guardian of we Wandering Rangers.  We found the Earth Complex which had long been lost, in the Giant's Finger Holes, and freed our captain.  This helmet," Kobal touches the helm, "is part of the Earth Knight's Copper Armour.  We Rangers are sworn to restore the Green to Prax.

"The news we bring is that this process is already beginning.  Already land around the Earth Complex is Green and its border grows day by day.  The temple is restored, lead by the Earth Witch.  The Red Thorn bison clan has made the oasis at the Giant's Finger Holes its base, but Dedra from across Prax have made their way there - from all the tribes, including Sables."

I guess this is also news for Grundar, heh heh.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:30, Fri 08 June 2018.

Grundar does indeed listen intently, this is news to him too, and when the opportunity arises to do so in a way that is appropriate, he asks his companions to tell him more - he has been told of some of the more recent adventures, but it would appear not so much of events back home.

He will also take the chance to talk to others of the tribe they are visiting to find out if they have seen or heard of his sister, a lone wily daughter of his tribe, feisty but lost since Moonbroth.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:49, Fri 08 June 2018.

Amara stood respectful but wary as she entered the hut, remaining silent as Kobal spoke for them. She didn't want to be singled out for attention when words might be harm and the words she would use would be unflinching. She inclined her head at Delendras Mum, trying to see the spark that drove the life in her friend.

Ohanzee too slides from the zebra's back o land easily on the ground. He looks about at the braves before them, obviously powerful warriors in their own right, and whilst he shows respect, the strength of Waha in his soul since initiation tells him that he could be as powerful, more so when more trials are overcome.

As Kobal finishes talking he adds "That is last season's news. When the Skywatchers and the Prairie Thunder rode together to the sacred place the Red Thorns fled." he corrects.

"There is more to tell and perhaps a proposition to make, but if all the news is to be shared it will take time and if the proposition to be heard then perhaps not by so many ears."

The Raven in his soul wanders though, nudged by Disorder and his gaze passes over the obvious riches of these people. With his feet on the Earth he tries to extend his senses for no other reason than curiosity.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:07, Mon 11 June 2018.

There's a sudden increase in the rain and a cold wind from the north, which buffets the large group of braves. Once it's passed the Sable Khan answers

"I have no need of news. Why are you here? To return your captive to her people?"

This causes a ripple of anger to pass over the throng surrounding the Rangers.

Delenda's mother does not respond to any gestures of acknowledgement sent her way, instead allowing the Khan to deal with the party for now.

Melock dismounts Stinky and briefly bows his head in a sign of respect to Boronwaha. He stays near the back and looks round at the braves surrounding them and gently shakes his head, those nearest him, hear Melock mutter, "Who thought this was a good idea?"

Ignoring the subject mentioned he replies "Hargran the Dirty's men. They've been treading on a lot of toes including your own so we heard. Also heard that because of the politics of this place it might be difficult for you to do anything about it directly."

"Go on..."

Henal makes the usual signs of respect to the khan, but leaves the others to talk for the minute.

Melock sighs and walks to the front of the Rangers, "If we were to take care of this problem, would it be worth something to you?"

"Just as my friend says, we are in a position to send then a message of the type they understand, but we are not with the clans here, of you wish it so."

"We can of course make it as clear as you wish why the message is being sent."

The Khan listens, but doesn't lose his frown or aggressive stance "You've some nerve coming here and without your hostage. You work for those that have stolen our lands and are our defeated foes. I have been informed that you no longer have the Queen's daughter is that true?"

No point lying, especially with Sun Hawks about "You asked of our hostage and the Queen's daughter in the same breath. Delenda is no longer our hostage, but she has not been so for some time."

"She has a great will and bravery" he looks at her mother "And she chose at the Giant's Finger Holes to become an Avenging Daughter. We do not keep hostages who and protectors of that which we seem to renew."

He smiles slightly "She is also very proud and expected the ransom to be collected and was quite insistent on the amount."

"On the way here we were attacked by trolls, many from the runts to the great ones. Her pride and hot headedness lead her to charge their leader and we could not stop nor get to her in time."

"He fled with her when he realised he was going to loose and we followed them into their Hell. We fought them there to rescue her though they had taken her to a Castle of Lead and we would have won the day again but like a coward he fled again from that Hell to this place."

Looking back at Khan Boronwaha he continues "So we have neither, but nor is it our intent to let her go unrecovered and we still have time before the designated day."

"You have also killed my son"

The voice comes from behind and turning the Rangers can see that it comes from Delnda's mother, a powerful looking priestess of Eiritha, resplendent in all her power and wealth.

Her voice holds no anger, just the stark truth of the matter. Around her stand her honour guards, faces filled with rage.

Ohanzee looks at Delenda's mother, the Priestess Nefertari as her daughter has called her. "I have heard that he was killed." he says to her "People can fall in raids, but in truth though I cannot say any more about that for I was killed, or at least sent as close to Death as can be without flying to Raven's nest."

He moves the armour on his abdomen to show the scar that remains still despite the ministrations of Kinope, his Water Rune marks showing on his blue arm. "Were it not for the daughter of the Greatest Serpent then I would have flown there."

Amara nodded solemnly, her eyes holding empathy and sorrow for the loss of the her friends brother "It is unfortunate that we fight each other. We've all lost loved ones in fights with other tribes. Both of my parents, my aunts and uncles, cousins and grandparents were all lost at Moonbroth. The SkyWatchers were almost completely lost there." she said pointedly "Yet we remain. As braves we've witnessed the end of tribes, the end of lives....but we've beheld something more. Something wondrous. Something miraculous. The beginnings of the garden in a place that was once haunted by nothing but the dead."

Forgive me speaking out, stutters Grundar, plucking up the courage to speak. We have all lost. I am Grundar, not one of the Rangers but travelling with them. I too lost my family at Moonbroth, only my sister survived, but we were separated and to this day I do not know where she is. Seeking her is why I travel. I have only recently become acquainted with the Rangers, although some are of my tribe, and for now we ride together. I have found them honourable. You can trust them to do as they say, or at least give their all in striving towards it.

The Khan and Queen listen to the Rangers speak, with the Khan answering first

Turning to Amara he replies

"You must be the daughter of Yennan Windsong. A brave warrior who fell under my sword at Moonbroth. You have his look about you."

The Queen answers "My son is dead, my daughter held hostage by Trolls and you come here looking for help? You are either very strong or very stupid.

"I want access to the new Earth Temple for my clan. "

Ohanzee smiles strangely answering "Perhaps we are both very strong and very stupid, many say those are the most dangerous."

"All our peoples who honour and protect the Earth are welcome at the Earth Temple." He frowns a little "Though getting to it might be problematic given the clans between here and there, not to mention the current residents!"

His smile returns The chance to sooth troubled waters "We Wandering Rangers care for the Earth and Greening it above all else though, it is what we are sworn to." and he casts a wave across the gathered group "Our band takes those of any tribe or clan who take the oath." And as he does this he looks across the faces of the gathered Sable Riders to see if any show signs of interest in this.

"We can go with your clan to the Giants Finger Holes, an escort if you will. When Tada returns to his residence with his Green Knights few would try to stand in his way."

He sighs "Back to current business though, we come not for help and we will return your daughter. We come as I said to offer help in dealing with Hargran the Dirty's mercenaries."

He turns his gaze back to Boronwaha "If that help is wanted?"

"We will come after Sacred Time" answers the Queen.

"You plan to free my daughter, how so?"

He nods at her suggested timescale and then replies to the question "Our options are limited. We, well Amara" he indicates his red headed wife for the year "invoked a heroquest to chase them down in their Hell and we couldn't trap him there."

"Now though he is in his warrens he is surrounded by his minions so we don't have the numbers to raid for her. Unless we can raise more then galling as it is we will have to buy her back."

"We will get our own daughter back without your help" announces the Queen.

"And we do not need you interfering in our business" replies the Khan. "Leave now..."

The Sable braves begin to close in on the Rangers, intent on herding them out of the camp...

That didn't go so well, Grundar mutters to himself, making a mental note to add them to his list to get one over at a later date. Oi, hands off brother, he shouts at one brave who gets too close, a sarcastic edge to the familial description, giving them a glare as they attempt to herd him, We're not your cattle!

Henal has kept silent through the speech stony-faced and glowering at the sable braves.

He moves away readily muttering "should leave these lot to the moon worshippers".

This gains Grundar a sharp dig in the ribs from the butt of a spear.



Henal has the reins of his mount in his hand, as do his companions.

Melock bows to the Khan, "Thank you for your hospitality." He does his best to sound sincere. He turns to Delenda's mum, "I can see were your daughter gets her fire from. I hope in the future we can meet on better terms."

Instinctively, Grundar shoves back and then realising the stupidity of such a gesture, holds up his hands to try and prevent escalation. Ok, ok, reign it in...

 

As the Sables crowd the Rangers out of the audience space Temush nods to Nehanda and says "When you find the need..." making no particular effort to make himself heard over the hubbub and not waiting for any acknowledgement.

Amara left, seeing no wisdom in provoking the guards. Her head held high she left saying nothing to Khan or Queen, merely stepping in at Kobals side.

The  Rangers quickly find themselves outside the camp, wet through and with nothing to do.

The sound of laughter drifts over from the nearby shanty town of Badside, the wind carrying the smell of drink, food and unwashed bodies...

Henal walks out with as much dignity as he can find and when the smell wafts over he finally speaks. "Looks like that is where we need to be to fulfil our mission. Now I really want to get Delenda back to show them what we can do".

Melock nods, "It would be the best way to win them over." His stomach rumbles when he smells the food, "Lets head over there," Melock points to Badside, "Even if we can't find him, we can get something to eat."

As they left the camp Amara gripped her javelin tightly. There would be a reckoning some day.

Would I be right in thinking life with you is always like this, never a dull moment! Agreeing with Melock he adds And yes, food would be great.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:41, Wed 20 June 2018.

Melock laughs, "That was nothing, normally they attack the moment they see us." he grins, "I think living here has changed you more than you realize."

It's now drizzling, but despite the weather theres a fair few folk out and about literally soaking up the day. Dirt and dust flows down the nearby walls of the Big Rubble, to splash down on the ramshackle buildings and tents at it's base.

Dogs bark at the Rangers as they ride in, several snapping at their mounts' heels whilst dodgy looking folk watch from beneath leaky verandahs and open doorways. All look as if they could do with standing in the rain for a while as each and everyone of them are filthy and with the pinched look of folk who could do with a good meal or two.

Ahead stands one of the larger buildings, outside of which are six zebras their reins looped over a long wooden rail. Adjusting one of their saddles is a tall man dressed in an assortment of leather armour. He looks up as the Rangers approach, a wooden sign creaking from the wind above his head, depicting a Bison carcass.

His eyes narrow suspiciously, but he turns to look at the inn's doorway as a burst of raucous laughter comes from within.

Seeing the suspicion in the mans eye, Melock smiles warmly, "Greatings of peace stranger," he beckons him closer, "we're looking for someone, I wonder if you could help us, we'll make it worth your while." Melock jingles a couple of coins in his hand.

For his part Ohanzee asks the stranger "Safe enough to leave the mounts tethered here?"

Amara looked at the stranger with the sides of her eyes "We can reward those who look after our things." she left it unsaid what might happen to those who don't letting it hang in air as an implication.

The man's look changes to that of confusion, then anger "Piss off do I look like some sort of servant or something?"




"Like I give a shit about your mounts nomad?" he says pushing his wide brimmed hat further back on his head.


"By the fucking gods of the bastard moon are you serious? Now fuck off the bar is closed."

and with that he turns and swaggers into the Saloon, sword slung low on his hips  as his spurs ring on the wooden floorboards.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:03, Fri 22 June 2018.

Hoskar stands by his mount, tying a rein loosely to the nearest post. He spits expansively onto the ground to his left and grinds the phlegm into the earth with his boot.
Bad attitude. Bad side. Worth a lesson in manners if we had time he grates.

His hands twitch at this sides as he sticks his thumbs in his belt.

I assume we're going in he adds, striding slowly and deliberately forward.

Henal dismounts and lights a roll of tobakeh to smoke before he goes in. He swings his cloak with the elephant motif back to give free access to draw his sword and walks towards the doors, pushing them roughly aside.

As they approach the settlement Stomp and Peevt begin an eerie duet that reminds Temush of an old Ostrich Grasslands tune that he as not previously whistled whilst amongst the Rangers. Ohanzee, the local dogs and a pack of dusky hawks all extemporise the unsettling melody before they reach the bar.

https://youtu.be/LQGGQ-FCe_w

Melock swings his right leg over Stinky's back and slides down his left flank. He settles his poncho on his shoulders, "I reckon we should teach that low life some manners," Melock cracks his knuckles and follows the others in to the bar.

Amara pushed through the saloon doors throwing her shawl over her shoulder to grant a clear view of her axe riding on her hip, with her javelin in her hand. The music and conversation in the bar stopped. She looked around the bar slowly, before her eyes rested on her target. She walked slowly to the bar, the room silent as her boots ounded on the floorboards. She looked at the bartender and said "A measure of your strongest sipping khumiss for me and my friends....and for anyone caring to join us in a toast." she turned around to face the gang "To the no good, down low, dirty idiotic scum offbreed of a broo, Hagran the Dirty and all of the cheating, robbing morons who follow him. I would explain the insults to them, but I don't have the season to explain it in words simple enough for them to understand it."

Ohanzee groans "If we've got time? He's one of the ones we're here for you plonker!"

He rifles the remains of his weed pouch and pops the dregs in his mouth thinking that it'd make a good mess when spat in someone's drink.

His mouth waters sure enough, and by the time he's skid from the zebra's back he is getting a hit from the weed. He smiles "Pretty good actually" then fixes a frown on his face and wrapping the reins around the rail swaggers up to the doors  stepping through just after Amara's words have thrown the bar into relative silence.

He swings his poncho back, rain dripping from it onto the floor of the place and the silence is broken as the wind picks up outside stiring some wind chimes into life. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=-LyEvuULDFs

Spitting enough of the brown slimy saliva as is needed to talk her scans the room for the one who just entered "Not my mount, it's yours that's getting nicked!"
This message was last edited by the player at 06:50, Sat 23 June 2018.

There's no other patrons in the saloon except for seven startled looking men and the scared and quivering barkeep.

At Amara's words a bottle and glasses are placed on the bar "On the house" whispers the owner just before he drops out of sight behind the counter.

Gathering their wits the seven Royal Pavis guards begin to rise from their seats, slowly spreading out as hands waver over dagger handles in their belts...

"And who the hell are you?" demands one, more than likely their leader Jobal Lanza, the runes of Sky, Death and Disorder marked upon his Zebra leathers.

To punctuate his words he spits heavily into a copper bowl at his feet, the sound of it hitting ringing like a bell.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:53, Sat 23 June 2018.

Amara winked at the bartender, placing her javelin and axe on the top of the bar. "Who we are... well, that is a good question. Good enough to beat you without or without weapons for one thing....but draw on us, and you won't leave this place except in a wooden box." she lifted the cup into the air "The Garhound clan sends its regards in the form of me and my friends."
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:40, Sat 23 June 2018.

Ohanzee steps forward looking at the copper bowl by the mans feet and he spits his weed infused saliva too, but his lands directly on the mans foot.

Melock raises his glass as well, "Regulators," he coughs,"I mean Rangers!"

"Doing their dirty work for them eh? Well looks like you're a bunch of no good, stinky Sable fuckers and no mistake. You know who you're fucking with do you? Hagran's got the Governor's ear and you mess with us and you'll be in a right deep river of shite no mistake."

As Ohanzee spits on his boot the man sighs and then knees the brave in the goolies. The fight is on...

Chairs fly, bottles break and punches are thrown.

Amara laughed at Jobal "We're perfectly aware of who you are and to be honest, relying on the lunars to get you out of trouble every time gets rather old. I think you considerably overestimate how popular you are here. The lunars will deal with anyone that can keep the peace. The fact were here.... well, you must have asked for too much money in kickbacks or annoyed one or more important people." Amara glanced over as Ohanzee spat on the mans boot, realising it was about to kick off.

She had only a fraction of a second as a chair came hurtling through the air, moving to one side, she quickly rescued the bottle, a fraction of a second before the chair came crashing into the bar where she'd been standing only a few moments before. Amara placed the bottle on the bar safely as one of the soldiers came charging towards her.

"My name is Magan Black" said a swarthy heavily tanned man as he paused just outside of Amara's reach. "and you're just nomad filth" he stepped lightly on his feet with the stance of someone who was well versed in fighting using fists. He took an experimental swipe at Amara, which she avoided by swaying backwards.

Amara realised as the fight began that she might be in a bit of trouble, the mans reach far outspanned her own. She need to do sometihng to cause him to throw caution to the winds and get in a place here she could hit him. "Magan Black? Why Black? Is that the colour of her coat?" she grinned, her eyes showing the gleam of knowing a malicious taunt. She looked at the man, seeing the glare of anger in his eyes, all it needed was one more step. She caught a glimpse of a mild limp in her opponent "Tell me, did it hurt when your mother bit your leg?"

That was enough, the man roared, lowering his head and charged towards Amara. Amara grabbed a leg of the broken chair from the bar and swung it over head down onto Magans head with every bit of might she could manage. When it hit Managans head she could feel the jarring running up all of her arms....and amazingly the man was still standing. His eyes grew unfocussed as if he was having trouble seeing, before he slowly slumped to the ground. Amara leaned forward, whispering to the man as his eyes slowly closed over and he fell into the depths of unconsciousness "My name is Amara Brightsky. You'd do well to remember it."

Amara let out an ululating cry, picked up the bottle from the bartop, opened it and took a drink. She put the cap back on and threw it to the next in line.

Hoskar downs a drink, adding sourly Last thing they fucked had five fingers. And a thumb. But their dads are too busy to oblige most nights.

And then the trouble started. As Amara fights, he finds himself Mano a Mano with a wiry, moustachioed man looking expert at the sucker punch. Quicker, lither, but less strong. Hosk takes several blows to his body, one nasty cut opening up his cheek, till at last a blow of his own hits home, a kick in a sensitive area knocking his opponent to the floor in a ball of misery. Taking advantage of this, he ducks past Amara's combat to kneel on Claw Skin-Sky's back to keep him down. Stay down unless you want more he hisses as his own blood drips onto his opponent's thinning hair.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:50, Sun 24 June 2018.

Ohanzee had been expecting his action to get the fight started so he was ready for a fight, but was expecting a fist to swing, not a suddenly raised knee. He makes a valiant attempt to twist and turn the knee aside with his own thigh, but is only partially successful and takes a glancing blow to the right side of his groin.

Still, this strike is enough to double him over and cause a rush of vomit into his mouth. It's not a great deal, just a mouthful which he duly releases into the copper pot that fate would have it is just below his hunched form.

Taking a moment to steady himself and catch his breath he clasps the pot and rises turning to face the warrior who has stepped past him expecting the knee to have put Ohanzee down more permanently.

"Oi! Hagran's pillow biter!" he says hoping this is enough to get the man's attention. It is "Should have stayed down shor..." he starts as he turns, but his words are cut short as the flow of vomit and spit from the pot hits him square in the face.

Blinded by the stinging acidic mix he bends forward to cough out the portion that landed in his mouth just as Ohanzee's foot reaches his happy sack! The strike causes the man's downward action to accelerate albeit briefly as this is halted by the now upward motion of the copper pot that Ohanzee had swung in a circle.

There is a nausiating thud and muffled crack as face meets pot and both come off the worse for it. Jobal Lanza's nose suddenly becomes somewhat squishy and as he falls now backwards a tooth flies from his mouth.

The Raven brave grins at his handywork dropping the pot next to the prone warrior and kneels to lift his purse. Taking a coin from it he stands and avoiding a chair leans over the bar looking down the other side "Sorry about your pot, his face though,he's paying" and slides the coin over the edge.

He then picks up Amara's bottle and takes a mouthful that he swills and spits to clear the taste before taking a proper drink and looking about at the fight.

Melock shakes his head and mutters to himself, "All I wanted was a quiet drink." Grinning, he puts his right hand into his pocket and slips on his knuckle dusters. Unfortunately the nearest guy to him is almost twice his size and charges at Melock before he is half way across the room, he knocks Melock off his feet and they both land on a table, but Melock manages to use the big oaf's size and momentum against him and tips them both on to the floor, where Melock ends up on top, he sits up and punches him in the face, breaking his jaw and cracking his head on the floor, knocking him out. Melock stands up and dust himself down and looks around, "Who's next?" When he see's the bottle in Ohanzee's hand, "Don't hog the drink, chuck it over here."

Temush makes some lightning feints and darts at an unimpressed Tobin who poleaxes the pygmy at the first opportunity with an overhand chair surreptitiously grabbed from behind his back

Inspired by the swaggering bravado of his companions, Grundar saunters towards a couple of the guards who'd been playing poker before rising to their feet as the Rangers blew through the saloon doors. Grabbing a fist of poker chips from the table before them, he throws them the nearest's face. Just like kicking sand in the eyes in a brawl on the Plains! Dubgal caught by surprise, instinctively raises his hands to his face, leaving Grundar free to follow with a left hook. The guard's head cracks back as he collapses against the bar with the sound of smashing bottles. Grabbing him by the collar, Grudar lifts the face of the dog to his to deliver the warning, only to discover there's no one home. Still, the others will pass on the message when he comes to.

Rubbing his knuckles, he turns and acknowledges the whoops of the Deadheads left guarding the door with a grin. It doesn't look as if the posse will be needed today after all. A warning shout from one of them just in time stops this complacency, Grundar sidesteping just in time as Dubgal's gaming companion rounds the table...

Turning to face him, he yells out to Melock, And when you're done, don't forget to sling it this way. Mine's gone and knocked his over!

Both Henal and Kobal are having a hard time of it, their opponents not giving an inch. Blows are traded, furniture broken and crockery smashed until at long last they stand victorious, back to back and with bloody knuckles.

Temush is picked up and dusted down, and there is a chink of fresh glasses being placed on the bar

"Thanks for that, they had that coming" says the barkeep, barely audible above the groans coming from the fallen thugs.

"Suppose you'll be taking their Zebras too?"

Temush checks over the Zebra riders to make sure they are not about to pop their clogs, and Muses 'Bad part of town to be left out for the count. How can we be sure the next creep who comes in the door won't slit their throats? No slight on your roof more than the rest' he shrugs an apology to the barman

"Yeah, make them walk, that fits" replies Henal still cleaning the blood off himself. "Just wish that I'd been able to fight one more my size to make it easier".

"No one will kill them" replies the Barkeep. "Lunars would be down on us like a bad rash. Best if youse lot left as quick as possible. What name do you go by? Folks will want to know who to thank?"

Banging his opponent's head on the floor hard enough to make sure he doesn't hear what with being too unconscious to be paying attention, Hoskar grates Rangers to friends. Fang Brothers to anyone else who comes calling.

Good booze, my friend. Appreciated.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:01, Mon 25 June 2018.

"No, no killing, just that gentle message."

"And damn right we're taking their mounts, I'm taking his" and he kicks the unconcious form between the legs for good measure and grins "cos he'll not be able to ride for a while!"

He looks at the barkeep "Which is his?"

"The angry looking one with the Blue handprint on it's flank."

"Aye, recently stolen off a caravan. Only the best stuff that falls off the back of mule in the Butchered Bison."

In reply to GM (msg # 152):

Pass me a bottle and tell me the price he grins to the barkeep. And as long as it's not stupidly excessive he pays without a murmur or a haggle.

That lot fell out of the back end of a mule. Next time they hassle honest traders they are stuffed back in again so hard they see intestines the rest of their days.

Amara patted down the leader, pulling out a small hidden pouch. She looked inside and then raised an eyebrow to Hoskar asking him to come over and take a look at the contents. "Perhaps it is time for me to purchase some replacement armour." she looked around quickly before heading to the barkeeper "Sorry about the mess, but I think it's time for us to be leaving. You know anyone that might take these zebras for a decent enough price?"

Whilst the others yabber on inside Ohanzee steps out and approaches the indicated breast.

"Well now aren't you the fine one" he says in his best herd beast calming voice as he runs his right hand over it. Instinctively he places his blue left hand into the marking of the blue hand.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:31, Tue 26 June 2018.

Melock laughs, "Did you see the size of mine?" He walks over to the bar and helps himself to the bottle Hoskar has just bought, "If those zebra are marked as theirs, we can't keep them, so we either leave them or as Amara suggested sell them."

"I can fix you a buyer no problem, come to think about it there's a bunch came through the other day from over west. Adventurers looking for mounts that won't get them killed. If you leave it to me I can sort it out this evening. Where are you staying so that I can bring you your money? I'll take a 5% cut if that sounds okay?"

The Barkeep gives a helpful smile.

The Zebra seems quiet enough and lets Ohanzee climb up on to it's back.

Cautiously Ohanzee swings up and onto the zebra, is reins in his hand. He gently urges it on with a clicking noise and using using his legs as he would a on one of their own mounts tries to control and guide it.

A small crowd has collected to watch Ohanzee ride around on one of the Pavis Royal Guard Zebras, whilst inside several of the injured thugs are beginning to recover, casting healing magic and generally making a lot of fuss over their wounds.

Celebrating with the Deadheads, Grundar sees Ohanzee in action and breaks out laughing. You gotta see this guys, he yells, beckoning the others over from the bar, flipping between gesturing wildly through the door and bending double in howls of laughter, Our rhino rider's gone all stripy!

For a moment he thinks better of it, but the temptation soon takes over. Running to the cautious rider he slaps the mount on the rump, yelling, Giddy-up ol'stripy, before your last master awakes!

Ohanzee releases the reins just as Grundar slaps the beast on the rump and with the slap, a click and a little leg it lunges forward as he rides arms spread showing the locals the true riding abilities of a nomad on a herd beast.

Gripping with his knees and leaning into the turns he legs the zebra about in an arc and back to the railing. "Wow now" he calms it and leaning down takes up the reins again then pulls the reins of his mount loose.

"Come on, let's go before more trouble arrives."

"I've just found my ride to the wedding!" he adds grinning, but says no more on that.

Amara nods to the barkeep. "Sure, just keep the money for us. 15% for yourself. We'll be back sometime." she looked around at the stirring guardsmen "Time for us to be off." and she walked out the door.

Melock follows Amara outside, "That was fun, can we come back tomorrow and do it again?" He mounts up and looks up and down the street, "I reckon they'll get some of mates to come look for us."

Henal gets up onto his zebra, "yes, they are likely to try and get back at us so we had better be ready".

"No. We've sent the message. Anything more would be unnecessary. Retaliation is likely. More letters get out of here."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:59, Thu 28 June 2018.

Taking a tot of booze, Hoskar grins agreement. Yep. Saddle up time.

Grundar gives Ohanzee one final whoop in admiration of his stead control despite his provocation, and then leaps onto his rhino's back. Yep, time to get going. He leans down to the Deadheads, You lot better make yourselves scarce as well, thanks for coming. Our tracks will be fairly obvious, I suggest you take a different path. Thanks for coming!

The Rangers head back to New Pavis, crossing the bridge unmolested, the three guards still inside their building. One peers out as the braves pass, but sees nothing of interest.

It's the same with the Lunar guards on the other side and then on the gate in to the city proper.

The Deadheads split off, leaving the Rangers to decide where to go now. It's early evening and they still have their mounts and will need to report to their employer at some stage.

Rich Hill is to their left and Riverside to their right.

Ahead they can see the freshly whitewashed walls of the Wind Temple. Not far is the abode of the City's mayor and head of the Garhound clan Brygga Scissortongue.

It doesn't take long for the mounts and Ohanzee's new Zebra to get stabled in the farmers quarters, next to the Praxian temple and then it's back to Hoskar's mum's gaff to get cleaned up before heading over to Geo's.

Amara cleaned up though she hadn't even been hit once in the altercation. She handed the pouch to Hoskar letting him know he might want to trade the content for wheels as soon as possible. Feeling better after washing and combing her hair she was ready to meet with the Garhounds. She smiled as she polished the armband she'd been given to show she was a friend to the family.

Once they are back at Hoskar's mums place, Melock changes back in to his city clothes. "So how long do you think it'll be before they want to get their own back on us?"

"Not sure."Amara responded "They might not even want to get their own back. I'm not sure how the garhound clan is regarded in Pavis. It might be that dropping their name in this makes it strictly us versus the guards we fought....and we're not completely without allies here either." Amara shrugged "I'd just be guessing. The thing concerning me more is the man who killed my father. He seems to be held in high regard by the other khans here."

"Time will tell I suppose." Melock rubs the back of his neck in a nervous way, "I'm glad you raised that, I was trying to think of a way of bring that up. What do you plan on doing about your dad's killer?"

Amara frowned as she gripped her spear tightly "It depends. A few seasons ago, I'd dedicate everything I am and ever would be to having him die at my hand. Now...if he chooses to join us in our quest to restore the green. I would let him live. It is his choice. Though admittedly, I look forward to killing him since I believe him to be working against us and our goals." she glanced at Melock "My feelings on this are complex. I don't especially bear him ill will. The wastelands are harsh. If not him, then it could have been someone or something else. However, it was him, and I will not suffer people killing Skywatchers or any of the pairie thunder clan easily."

He nods, "I think I understand. Hopefully when they see what we've managed to do at the Earth Temple, they'll want to help us. I can only hope that Delenda's mother is as," Melock pauses, searching for the best word to use, "understanding, forgiving," he shrugs, "you know what I mean."

In reply to Amara Brightsky (msg # 175):

Hoskar smiles wanly at Amara's words, his eyes moistening. You are wiser than me he murmurs I'd not recommend resolving it badly. The way I did things haunts me. And so it should.

He looks extremely sheepish, and busies himself making himsefl look respectable again having healed the little cut below his eye with one dose of his charm; avoiding a scar for the sake of trade respectability.

With Melock raising the question of revenge heading their way, Grundar nods, Yes, these things do come back to bite you like a wild dog chasing it's tail. It might bode us well to keep moving for a while, or at least lie low. I suspect together we might stick out like a baboon's red behind though, and so perhaps heading out soon would be best. You've got business out of town haven't you? Talking of deeds biting back and baboons, I mustn't forget to resolve that request of Goldfang's too.

As the conversation moves to talk of Delenda and Amara's Dad's killer, Grundar keeps his counsel to himself, not that he has anything wise to contribute. These are clearly personal matters. Just as he would want no one trampling over his family's fate, he won't trample on their's either.

"We have much still to do in the town and surrounds. Freeing Delenda, returning the acorn to the Aldryami. I need to talk to Krakka's sister in law too."

Standing next to Grundar, "The best person to ask about Krakka and the pain he caused us, is Hoskar. Though hopefully his sister will be more helpful."
This message was last edited by the player at 09:04, Tue 03 July 2018.

Hoskar's gaze swims back into focus at Melock's comment. I heard Krakka damn Rumble was knocking about the Storm Bull temple a while back then disappeared to the Rubble. Maybe the Real City and likely in with the rebels.

What's this about his sister? News to me.

Grundar. Don't know if we've told you this lot yet. The...ahem...gent in question is a Wind Lord. I met him as I left here last time, journeyed with him to the Rocklands. He acted like a friend. Was like a father to me a little while, or so it seemed. But then he nicked our mounts, and sold a brave and worthy Ranger of our number - Kaonu - to the Morokanth and got him killed. And then when we stole our own damn mounts back he set Khan Well-Ard 'Arry to chase us. We have Amara to thank for our lives on that one - she impressed the khan with bravery in a headbutt contest.

So. Krakka Rumble isn't our favourite little boy, although his wife Gronya is fine. Austere, but fine. We fancy a quiet word with old Krakka and no mistake. Preferably somewhere no-one will overhear.

He subsides, shaking his head sadly.

Sounds like this Krakka needs putting back in his rightful place, if not knocked a peg or two lower. Do you guys have a plan yet? What's his weak point? What's valuable to him? If he's wronged you, then he's wronged me, and I'm more than happy to play my part in achieving justice. If doesn't recognise me, of course, so that might help.

"as he's a wind lord, once we know where he is, we could tell the lunars where he is" he shrugs, "of course it would help if we knew a friendly lunar guard."

That would certainly be effective, a little bit dull though - surely there must be a more enjoyable way of bringing him down. Of course, with his being a wind lord and all that care would have to be taken. It's all in the planning.

Nodding, Melock grins, "When we got our mounts back from him, I managed to stuff his shadow cat in to a bag to distract him, I doubt either of them have forgotten about me, so if we are to bring him down ourselves, you may have to go in first."

Grundar grins back, That figures, I put myself in danger whilst you guys creep up and stab him in the back! Alternatively, he grins wider, you would make an even more effective distraction whilst I do the honours!

His grin is replaced by a look of worry, "You're right I probably would make a better lure than you," Melock sighs, "let's hope we get a chance to plan something and don't just bump in to him in the street or a pub."

Grundar slaps Melock on the shoulder, Put that glum face away, and quit worrying, I'll look after you!

"That's what worries me," he laughs, "if a Raven can't out wit Stormbull's little brother, then I deserve a good beating. It's his shadow cat that might be more of a problem as it's his allied spirit and he can spy on us with it."

"Krakka never met me either" Henal says "but I suppose now I must be known as a Ranger after what we have already done. Just hope we can get on to free Delenda and get the seed back to the elves soon and get back out into the plains".

"If Delenda is with us when we catch up with Krakka, it should even the odds a bit." a far away look crosses Melocks face, "Not only back out on the plains, but back to the tribe and time with Wild Pastures."

The Rangers are soon walking down the narrow alley to Geo's, though this time they're greeted with backslaps, high fives and smiles. Folk lean out of windows and doorways to shout their greetings and well wishes.

As they tramp into the bar they're met by a cheer and a round of applause from the Deadheads and slightly older men present. Govoran has a slight smile on his weatherworn face and there beside him sits the head of the Garhound clan: Brygga Scissorhand.

She signals for quiet and asks "Well?..."

Grundar's not going to miss the opportunity to soak up the praise and responds in kind, whooping and running along, hands outstretched to hi-five any hand that strays near his. We did it, we kicked them well and proper! You should have seen us!! Quickly the tales he's telling are elaborated, especially near the ears of the Deadheads.  Going along the row of fans, he suddenly stops, palm raised. In. Front. Of. Brygga. He smirks sheepishly. We did it...

In reply to Brygga Scissortongue, (msg # 192):

Hoskar bows courteously when Grundar has finished. We bring the good news you sought. There are those who feel sorry for themselves. There are those who are knowing better than to interfere with trade unless their minds are replaced with cabbages. There are those who are walking home. Delicately. And, as required, nobody died. We seem to have accomplished all that was asked

He smiles diffidently
It is a privilege to be of use on this.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:27, Wed 04 July 2018.

Ohanzee is grinning at the other's answers and then adds "Nope, no one died, but their boss, well the one who was in charge of that patrol, is going to walk funny for a few days."

Then a little more seriously he asks "Can we expect any comeback from this? Good to know if we need to look out for a revenge attack."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:13, Wed 04 July 2018.

Bowing slightly to Brygga, Melock then glances at the others as they answer her and decides he doesn't have anything else to add.

Amara's lips twisted into a humor filled smile. "The guard know that the Garhound clan plays them compliments and has earned their respect. They appear to have misplaced all their valuables and mounts." Amara looked around before leaning closer to Brygga and whispering "The sable clans on the ourskirts of town may be approachable if you wish to remove the meat trade from the hands of the zebra riders."

Despite setting out looking a bit grumpy, Temush warms to the occasion, and seems to appreciate the reception that the Rangers are getting from the Oldtowners.

The mayor smiles at the braves "I told you that they would succeed. Pay up Govoran"

The old warrior throws her a purse which she catches deftly.

You will be entered into the accounts as mercenaries of our clan and from now on be permitted to carry arms within the city.  You must note that your future actions within this walls will reflect on us.... As for repercussions I think you have little to fear as they know now that we will not take interference in our business. Now relax and enjoy a dinner and drinks on us.

Amara nodded thankfully as she made her way to the feast, sitting beside the rest of the rangers. "Much to do and little time in which to do it, but at least now, we have made some progress."

Hoskar's bow is slightly deeper than that of Melock, but not wholly formal.

Our thanks again he notes with a respectful smile.

I might have bet against the new folks too he murmurs as he joins his comrades at board. We're an odd bunch, after all.

Shaking his head, Melock smiles, "Never a good idea to bet against one Raven, let alone three." He sits down with the others and helps himself to some food, "Thank you for the food and drink." He chews and swallows a few mouthfuls and then a look of worry appears, "Urm, I'm not sure having my actions reflect on your good name, is a good idea, maybe I shouldn't become one of your mercenaries." Melock looks at the other Rangers, "What do you think?"

Henal thanks Brygga before he responds to Melock laughing "I just worry about your actions reflecting on the good name of the wandering rangers before anyone else".

"It's not the same," he scratches the back of his neck, "You all know and understand me, they," Melock nods towards their hosts, "don't."

All those present sit down to eat and whilst the Rangers talk amongst themselves they hear several Deadheads speaking of the latest corpse found in the Farmer's quarter.

Grundar beckons one of the Deadheads over, Oi, Numbskull, what's this about a corpse? Tell us more. Anything we need to be worried about?

Some shaman from your lots temple. Found stabbed to death in an alley

Temush makes a sign against the bad wind spirits and clears his throat. 'Is it linked to the string of deaths? That would be bad for those of my tribe who live in or out of the walls' 

In reply to Temush Blinking-cloud (msg # 208):

Hoskar had been feeling thirsty before, an effect of having held himself back over the past few days. He is not thirsty now. Maybe it is for this reason he chimes in less subtly than he is apt to do. We are knowing any connection soon, I'd reckon. Or at least who is behind this one. You kill a shaman you best prepare to see him further next week. Or maybe you see his friends once his spirit passes on the bad word.

He blinks, realising the setting, and leans in to add more quietly And if that does not happen I wonder if we should take an interest. Anything bad enough to kill a shaman clean off with no news is big trouble.

"We need to take an interest, as it's a fair bet he's a shaman of Waha. " He puts down his drink, "Were any of the others, that have been killed the same way, nomads?"

Hoskar nods. Agreed. I was thinking an independent interest not just helping examine the culprit's tripes when named.

Still. Good question. What with rooftop archers speaking mostly-dead tongues, possessions, and mystery killings, something is fishier than a Newtling's breakfast in this man's town.

He leans forward; intent, but not so intent as to completely forget his mug.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:46, Fri 13 July 2018.

Amara smirked at Melocks comments "You may as well just accept. You'll be ranked and sentenced as if you were in our number anyway. Better to have a weapon at your side in this place than not. Especially with the murders taking place." she listened to the deadheads speak "Personally speaking, I take a very dim view of people murdering those of the tribes in general, never mind a shaman. We might wish to discourage this form of behaviour."

Grinning cheekily at Amara, he nods, "As you wish, mistress." Melock gulps down some drink to stop himself saying anything else.

Was a Sable rider shaman. Doubt anyone will miss him. says one of the lads.

"I can think of a couple of people who will. If we deal with them, it might improve our standing with Delenda's mum." Melock chuckles, "wouldn't that be good."

Sable shaman? muses Hoskar.

Not the guy who helps us with Ohanzee's passenger, I am hoping. Or else one good turn may be deserving a spot of our vengeance.

Temush puts his fingertips together, 'The need to pay back such a score is a throw and come back stick that bites him as throws as hard as him as he aimed at. If it was that man Hoskar spoke of then it may be linked to what he did for Ohanze. Those bows on the roofs seemed to be most fond of death on the quiet.' he says

Bow's on the roof? asks the warrior.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:35, Fri 13 July 2018.

In reply to Govoran the Magnificent (msg # 218):

Hoskar blinks twice, doing his best to focus, before replying It is the day your men first meet us, Lord. We employ them as escort in the afternoon. That evening shortly before curfew we pass through the alleys outside Geo's here on business of a private nature. Being trusty we do not state the business or mention our employer. Being polite, we know you are not asking for details. Your men and the Deadheads will recall. We head through the next court towards the market square...having reasons of a private nature to keep to alleys...and are peppered with arrows from a roof while in the court. We do not know who fires them, but hear Old Pavic being talked. We hail them and they make themselves scarce.

We have no idea who they might be.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:48, Fri 13 July 2018.

"If it was that shaman then he was paid more than sufficiently. That charm was worth a small fortune and he kept the spirit too, a powerful one."

He half drains the mug he's been nursing whilst listening to the others "If he couldn't keep hold of it and couldn't keep hold of his life then what good trying to revenge him?"

"The amount of sheer murdering going on in this town is disconcerting. Let's find who the murderer is and why they did it and then we either drink some khumiss with them, or hand them over to the authorities. Either way works out good for us."

I can't help but agree. I have this uneasy sense about stuff going on around us that we can't see or hear, but know is happening. I don't like not having all the knucklebones or cards in my hand. To win at our game we need to be in possession of all the facts.

"If it was those archers, then they now have that spirit. Take it from someone who not only talked face to face with them but was thrown off a roof by one of them, they are scary enough without that spirit."

Ohanzee snorts, then shakes his head "So in their city you think you can even find them?" he asks looking at those proposing this course of action "Where?"

Then answered or not he adds "So which is it, there is much to do or there is time to spare on another errand?"

"Besides, we'll be gone soon enough."

Amara shrugged "I want to get Delenda back. That's the most important thing of all. After that return the seed to the Aldryami...after those are done, we can see what we need to do afterwards. I think it might be important to find whoever is murdering though."

Thanks sounds like good sense to me - she is central to all that you seem to be about. Hopefully other matters won't impinge on that just yet, although I have a horrible feeling they may yet do so... Personally, I also have to work out a way to sort out that business Goldfang has handed me, but no doubt that can be dealt with as we go.

Having heard no mention of ostrich feathers, Temush drops out of the talk of murders and asks Brvgga Scissortongue something 'O Mayor, I am painting a scene of the God's Square here some days past when I am asked to paint the Square of Pavis by the wall too, which I say I will do for some purse that seems good. I find though, that Lord Pavis is not looking my way when I try to find the lines and the hues to put on the skin, and this sounds as though I am at lack in some way. I may be where I am from, I don't know, but I am thinking that if I will be talking to one of the priests or their aides at the temple they may help me see what a man needs to see of Pavis. But of course I am just one more Dedra and, like you, they must have much work on their hands, so, I hope you may have a thought as to who I might seek out and what time might suit them'.

"Yes getting Delenda back shows we can defend our oaths. All these unseen things happening unsettles me. The hidden world seems full of threats we cannot see." Henal grimaces and looks over to the others.

"If Delenda's family rescue her from the trolls, are we going to have to rescue her from her family?"

"Let's just make sure that we get Delenda back before her family are able to do so.  We needed to get her back anyway.  Her cause is the same as ours.  But given how our meeting with Sables went, getting her back will hopefully make those Sables see us with new eyes.

"If the gods are with us," says Kobal, "the best thing that could happen is that the Sables try to recover Delenda, but cause a distraction which allow us to slip in and free her ourselves, haha."

He pauses a moment.  "I was going to say that saving Delenda is the most pressing matter - we know she'll be sold off soon.  But we'll need help dealing with the trolls.  Do you think if we return the seed to the elves, they might be willing to give some help dealing with the trolls?  Then again, if the trolls see us using some kind of elf magic, they're not going to be happy..."

"We could just bid for her when she's sold, that way we don't upset the trolls." Melock grins, "but the idea of sneaking in there and freeing her without the trolls seeing us, is tempting. With three Ravens to do the sneaking, while the rest of you cause a distraction" he rubs his hands together, "that would be more satisfying."

"How much is she likely to sell for?  And would we have enough to win the bid?  We're leaving too much to Luck to hope that we'll be able to win the bid.  We need at least a back-up plan."  Kobal looks to Melock.  "And you Ravens are very... distracting (to put it nicely, haha).  The three of you should occupy the trolls, while the rest of us save Delenda."

Melock returns Kobal's look, "You're saying little old me is more distracting than big old you?" he chuckles, "Waha rescued enough tribes from the Darkness, maybe we can follow one of his paths to free Delenda."

"Forget the elves for this season. I may have a lead on getting help, but no one is going to do so this season." Ohanzee says.

"Isn't there an Issaries path to get a good value deal?"

"Otherwise there's my Storm Bull friends. Might be able to persuade some to come along for a fight." He half laughs "Or we could follow Little Brother's path to the Sky Bulls field, win one and come back able to tell them what to do!"

"But without time the options are reduced."

"We need Delenda to chose her own path. For that, we cannot allow her to be auctioned. If it gets to that point, the Sables will outbid us. They are wealthy and looked upon with favour by the Moon Worshippers. In addition, Delenda's mother is queen and has the wealth of her clan to back her. Think on the ransom we were going to be paid. We have nothing of its equal here. If it is at all possible, we need to return her before her mother even has the opportunity to try to bid for her."

Eyota's spirit voice, normally silent or hidden in talk for Ohanzee's ears only suddenly booms out to the Wandering Rangers and their various spirits.

"There is a story, an old one, older than memories but then my spirit has been away from the people for longer than I can know so it lies still in my memories."

"Perhaps it is no more than a story, but perhaps there is a thread of legend that runs through it or the seed of a legend waiting to germinate."

"In the Great Darkness many were lost and many lost their way, then there were those who were both lost and who had lost their way."

"Waha did not find all of the people, there were a wretched few who survived in the Darkness thought they were both lost, for they knew not what where their path lay, and they had lost their way for they had lost or eaten their beasts."

"These people were destined to be the seed of a new tribe, the Tribe of the Walking Square. Walking for they had no mounts and Square for the act of forming the tribe would transform the founders, bind them together yes, but bind them each to a Rival too. Four Rivals, four sides and four angles. Square too perhaps because they had gone into the Earth during the Great Darkness."

"The lost ones did not know it, but The Rivals knew it though and in a rare act they sought to work together to see this vision through."

"The Rivals themselves took to their wings and flew into the Great Darkness, Raven bringing his abilities in Darkness and trickery to confound those who would stand against them, Sun Hawk bringing his Light to reveal the hidden and his Truth to bind together the new tribe, Thunderbird bringing his strength and his courage to defeat those who would stand against them and Condor bringing his abilities to find the path."

"So long ago though was this, the Rivals were younger then and the Rivalry strong, stronger perhaps than ever before or ever since. The tale goes that they found those lost in the Darkness, found them and brought them together."

"Then the old rivalries took hold the Four argued between themselves. They argued over who had contributed the most to the venture and thus who should take to himself the most followers, even though it had take all Four and they had agreed at the start to take an even split of followers."

"And as they argued between themselves the Darkness crept back again and stole away those who would be the beginnings of the new tribe, The Walking Square."

"As I say it is perhaps no more than an ancient tale. Perhaps though it has a threat of legend running through it, a copper thread perhaps."

"And if legend it is then perhaps those who follow the Rivals and so are a step removed from the Rivalry, those who have worked together already, they can stay together to see the legend through to the foretold end."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:26, Mon 23 July 2018.

Ohanzee is silent for a while considering as he looks about at the others before putting his ale mug down and speaking "Well, what do you all think? A quest of the Four Feathered Rivals to free the founders of a new tribe from the Darkness?"

"Other than Delenda the trolls must hold a number of slaves and hostages, enough to fulfil such a quest."

Amara nodded, it wasn't as if she would pass over any opportunity to rescue Delenda, and she still felt somehow unworthy due to the fact she wasn't able to rescue Delenda as Vinga. "I think we have to try"

Melock nods, "Yes, that sounds like a great way to rescue Delenda, and found our own tribe"

Sounds exciting, pipes up Grundar, I'm willing to join in.

Pacing pensive, lonely loping. Close to closeted home-keeping. Sudden stillness. Hopeful hearing. Ears alive to nighted noises yet not those that others witness.

Two-legs do you hear him calling?
This message was last edited by the player at 18:05, Tue 24 July 2018.

Henal smiles "yes, quest as the rivals to bring the captives from the darkness into the light".

Hoskar inclines his head a moment, as if listening to something. Maybe he hears a faint rustle of brown feathers, or maybe it's just his cat's mind.

Work and warring till the world's renewing, I was told once. And that foursquare in the world. The path is to be chosen while we can, before we join that caravan where we do not choose any longer. Turning the path aside from squabblings seems apt.

He shrugs. It's easy for a man who had nowhere to fit before. I agree.

"Ok, so we've worked out how we're going to rescue Delenda." His expression saddens, "I still need," Melock coughs, "I mean would like to go to the Unicorn riders temple and tell them what happened to the one we met. Can we visit them on the way to rescue Delenda?"

"The shamans will be helping tomorrow with Erithia's day. And since she shares the Beast Rune with all the rivals and they and she are part of Praxian tribal life then I dare say that enlisting the aid of the shamans then to contact the Rivals for their blessing on this quest will be easier than normal."

"And since we are after rescuing one of our people then we can perhaps get blessings all around on it."

"I think there's no rush before then, the Sables will not be risking missing her day off on their own quest, even if they decide that path rather than ransom."

Temush biffs Melock ceremonially (slowly and painlessly) on the chin. 'Good thought.' He says. 'I'll go with you. It may help.'

Looking unimpressed at Temush's hand, Melock can't help but grin at him, "Yes, having a Sun Hawk with me will be a great help." Melock fails to keep a hint of sarcasm out of his voice. He nervously rubs his neck scars and all trace of sarcasm disappears, "Seriously though, the more the merrier, in case they decide to blame the messenger."

"Blame you for riding the Unicorn and thus driving away the creature whose presence with its connection to her and its natural healing powers was quite possible the only thing keeping the woman alive?"

He snorts "Why on earth would they have any reason to blame you?"

Melock looks concerned, "I think that part of the story can be skipped over," he glances at Temush, "if someone can keep Temush busy while I talk to them, there's no reason that needs to come up."

Temush shrugs 'You've had a long time to make up your mind what you need to do' he says 'You got into a drinking bout with some Ravens and you got ravened. If it was me, that's what I'd say, but my plume does not have the same hue as yours. If you don't want to tell how it was then why do you want to see them at all?

Prairie Thunder tried to help her, Wandering Rangers tried too, it could the wrong you did made things worse, but that's just a guess. She had her mount there and she was still sick. You're one of us, if they think you owe them, then we owe them. We can make good. Just don't talk down to them, or act like they don't count. Minor tribes may be weak but they want to live, and they want to make their own minds up how to do it.

Aware that he's talking to a Sun Hawk, Melock thinks for a moment before answering, "I want," he pauses, "They should know one of their tribe died and that we tried to help, it's better if they hear it from someone who was there. That's the only reason I want to talk to them." He looks around at the Rangers, "I know we're all in this together, but you don't all have to come with me."

Temush raises an eyebrow and tilts his head 'Full and fair just to the day is the ill fare there of' he mutters, 'See how you feel when the time comes and say what comes to mind; we will see what we will see

Laughing, Melock pats Temush on the back, "If I say what comes to mind when I meet new people, we'll probably get chased out of every place we visit." He takes a big gulp of his drink, "Hoskar, you've got an honest face, maybe you can suggest a few good words for me to say."

Henal looks pensive but says "I'll come with you, we are all the Rangers so we should act together. I wonder if what you did really had any effect as the unicorn rider was sick enough that the tribe could not help."

"Thank you Henal, lets hope they're as understanding."

"Of course if we do get Delenda back we'd better not tell her about you riding the unicorn or you will end up singing in a high pitched voice...." replies Henal laughing.

In reply to Henal Longgrass (msg # 256):

"Considering what I talked her out of doing to all of us for killing her brother, I think I can talk my way out of this." he doesn't laugh with Henal, "but if I can't, you're all standing with me, right?"

of course we shoud let them know Hoskar opines. If they've got ways to tell truth from bragging, they might even be grateful to know I put in my healing potion on her. Even though it didn't work.

So I'm in.

After all, you might not find your way without the Condor he adds cheekily.

Smiling sweetly, Melock turns to Hoskar, "I think you just have shown me a better path, if you tell them what happened, obviously leaving out any unnecessary bits, you could have Temush by your side vouching for the," he shudders melodramatically, "truth of your words."

Ohanzee rises "Let's go now. I've heard that many of the women" he looks at Melock as he emphasises this word "who ride unicorns, or aspire to do so, are most active in the hours of Darkness anyway."

"And I've also heard that they hate trolls with a passion, so perhaps they would like to join our quest, but if we want to beat the Sables then we'll likely not have time after the ceremonies tomorrow."

Amara nodded "We are rangers. That makes us more than family. I'm not sure that visiting the unicorn riders is the best idea, but if you feel you must. You must. I'm even less convinced that not telling the complete and entire truth is a good idea, but if you think it appropriate, then so be it. Just remember, I can't save you and Ohanzee from everything you do....and at some point there will be consequences from which even I cannot prevent from happening."

Obviously I wasn't there Melock, offers Grundar, but it sounds to me as if you were being true to your self and Raven. Perhaps it didn't work out so well - you roll the knucklebones and sometimes you win and sometimes you lose, but that is in the hands of the gods, the outcomes are not ours to decide. You are not responsible for that, only the action you took. As to what to say, I'm sure Raven will give you the words to say, and I for one am happy to be there to support you whichever way the dice then roll.

Ohanzee laughs at Grundar's attempt to try to make Melock feel better "What a load of rhino shit!"

"The Great Spirits, the Gods, they are forbidden from deciding the outcome of anything here, that was the Great Compromise that Grandmother Spider wove together in her webs."

Pouring another flagon of beer, Melock looks up to Ohanzee, "That I'm male and have ridden a unicorn just makes me special or maybe unique." turning to the others he raises his flagon in a toast, "Thank you, my fellow Rangers for your support."

In reply to Melock (msg # 264):

Hoskar grins broadly. And if the unicorn riders find out about that wild ride, maybe you'll become "unique" in a way your missis would find rather disappointing.

Ohanzee laughs at Hoskar's comment having been beaten to it and adds "Oh he's special all right too."

Then generally "So you going to sit there drinking or decided against coming to see them?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:29, Tue 31 July 2018.

Melock shrugs, "Their temple is in the rubble, I don't think we'll make it back for tomorrow's celebrations if we head there now, which is why I asked if we could visit them on the way to rescue Delenda, that's if she being held were the trolls live."

'Do you plan to do with the Pyre Brigade on this raid?' Temush asks Amara, 'I don't think the unicorn women will be keen on them.'

"Ok..." Ohanzee replies "and the Waha temple is in town, but that doesn't mean we are there all the time. Where is their tribe, or clan?"

"From what I gather, they keep to themselves so I think they live near their temple. Well I hope so as I don't know anywhere else to look for them." Melock tops his plate of food up, "Grundar, do you know anything about the Unicorn riders?"

Amara shrugged "Well, if we can persuade the unicorn riders to join us, we could always ask the pyre brigade to remain at the temple in Pavis. If we can't persuade the unicorn riders, then perhaps they should come along." Amara suggested "Having options is always a good thing."

Also grabbing some food, Grundar replies to Melock, No, I'm afraid not, although I travelled through the Plains to get here, I've not had much to do with Unicorn Riders - I prefer the company of those whose horned steeds are of a more substantial nature! It would be good to visit some, however, just in case they have news of my sister. He points at Melock's quickly diminishing plate of food, Hungry were we?

Melock nods, "They might have taken her in. Can I ask where else you've asked after her and what she looks like in case any of us have seen her on our way here." He gestures towards his plate, "Free food is always welcome."

Henal getting food and eating, speaking little. "Its true that options are a good thing, but would the pyre brigade really be with us against the trolls?"

Amara looked at Henal "Yes. They would."

The Rangers notice that the others present in the room have all gone quiet as they stop to listen to their discussion.

One of them interrupts

Hang on a minute....Are you lot going up against Uz on their home turf and in Dark season?

Ohanzee, having taken a seat again smiles in what he hopes appears a brave fashion "Right on all three counts. It's a matter of honour, pride and necessity. The time scale is not of our choosing."

'Let's not rule out where we're a bit mad.' Temush grates in his best 'cracked animal nomad' voice. As he stick his chin out his mysterious red stone pendant peeks over the neckline of his tunic.

"We've already fought them in Hell and though we didn't win, we escaped with our lives and a few other things, but not our friend." Grinning broadly, "We also tracked down and killed Tripanandar in his own home," Melock shrugs, "I can't imagine this'll be much harder."

Temush nods at Melock with a smirk. 'That's right, and what's the worst that may chance? Most of those I care for are dead and the rest are in this room (bar one or two).' He raises his drink to the Rangers 'Three Horns in a Bag!'

Raising his drink as well, "Three Horns in a bag!" Temush's red pendant catches Melock's eye and he leans towards Temush and lowering his voice, "Nice stone. A gift from Sun Hawk?"

After the song has been sung Temush answers Melock privately

With wide eyes, Melock pats Temush on the back, "Impressive."

"There is a precedence too, an ancient quest undertaken by the Three Rivals together" Ohanzee starts forgetting Condor as the other three so often do as he realises that these foreigners likely never heard the story shared by Eyota.

"Remembering his oversight and throwing Hoskar a glance and a shrug by way of an apology he begins to retell the tale just heard throwing in a little of his own storytellers flare and making a good job of the tale.

In his version Little Brother, who he named Orlanth as the foreigners called him, came along on the trip and he spent some of his time with Thunderbird when fights were to be had.

But most of his time was spent with Raven moving through the Darkness unseen with Raven perched upon his shoulder and stealing away that which would aid their quest. And at these times he went by the name of Desemborth" a name recently learned by the young brave.

He finishes with a smile "I wonder, did Desemborth even know that Raven was perched there on his shoulder? Perhaps the one stole from the other, or vice versa, or even both stole and never realised that the other did."

"But anyway, the quest was done before, but the threads that should have tied the new tribe together were not tied or were not pulled tight enough."

"This time we will do so and we will learn from that mistake."

Grundar listens intently, doing his best to participate and encourage with an intake of breath, or a cry of yes, and definitely the occasional laugh, particularly highlighting the roll of Raven. The quest does sound exciting, and the enthusiasm shows on his young face as he considers that they might be reenacting this epic tale soon in their heroquest. As he considers playing the part of Raven, it also gradually springs to his mind that he could use it for his own benefit too, fitting surely if playing Raven's part, could their be someway he could use it to tighten the bond the Deadheads had to him at the same time, strengthening their 'tribe'? Of course, he'd have to play it just right or else he'd risk the prime objective of their quest, but if it could be done... He nods to himself, a quiet nod of possibility perceived.

'So, if we, who live or die when we give or hold back our aid, can tie these knots that our guides meant to tie but failed to tie, what will we have and how will we help those we will have? Delenda we hope, but how many more? to live where and from what? with no beasts to milk or send back to Eiritha with the cut? How hard was it to get here from the Earth Temple with mounts? Does the square tribe try to get there with none? Is there room for them here? Near the dark men we fetch them from? Put some thought in on this, or our quest may not be a tale they tell with pride in years to come'.

"True words as usual Temush," Melock looks like he's trying to think hard through the haze of the alcohol he's been drinking. "I know that not only did Grandmother Spider bind the tribes together, she also bound places together that were far apart," he shakes his head to try and clear his head, "but only she knows how she did that. Do we know of any spirits that can travel fast between places?"

Amara nodded. "The spirits are in all places. If we talk to grandmother thorntree then she is present where all her namesakes are. The more fitting question is who do you want to talk to and what spirits do they talk to?"

Hoskar smiles back to Ohanzee with maybe the hint of a wink.

Aye. The three vying together he murmurs, his smile becoming more wan and, though his rider fell to the predark, a fourth soaring silent. To wait and to guide. Fly the unfenced path and watch the wyrded way. To be part of the all one day.

"Temush you're a boring old fart and if your heart isn't in it then perhaps you should sit this one out!"

"We're used to working together where the Three had not done so. And Grandmother Spider was not along the first time to tie her knots."

"The Wastes are hard whether you've a mount or not, and there are plenty who manage to travel it and live there without beasts. Of course they shall go to the Earth Temple, for them to stay here would leave them within the reach of the Darkness to snatch them back just as it did before."

He makes a sucking, clicking noise drawing air through his teeth as he clicks with his tongue.

"It'd be a shame not to have a Sunny boy on a quest that's meant to be for all the Rivals, but if you're lining up your excuses already..."

I know that you find it hard to trust a plan once it's got out of your head Ohanzee, but I'm keen to see where the road leads and have some clue what we might be called on to do. Temush waves his arms about in an aimless sort of way What if we end up with two score of town folk and their kids who don't know a bull from a bush. Do you want us to point them at the Bleak Hills and say 'Two or three month's walk that way, you can't miss it... Oh, watch out for the Sun Folk... and the Broos' - they'll not last a week. We'd have to go with them, and either stock up on food or find them mounts. Run that by the Snowspear and your wife.

Now if we can find a place in the quest to set them up in a safe spot that might make more sense. Old fart for my years I may be, I put it on with the nose ring when I raked through my dead kin's last stand. You've been dead, I'd think that would grow you up some too, but what do I know? As for running four rivals with one left out that's a Raven plan. Of course I'll go. I did not say don't go, I said think on what we come back with. I'd be bucked if we freed some ostrich slaves, but if we get a lot of mouths out they'll need a lot of filling. We'll make it work I dare say, but it might help if we'd planned for it.

Henal blearily replies "It makes sense that if they are not nomads then we want to leave them somewhere if we aren't taking them as slaves. Maybe that can help make these townies less convinced that every nomad is only ever looking at them to raid their farms, though the best place has to be the Giant Finger Holes".

Looking more serious he continues "surely in a heroquest we can be at many places at once and it can make leaving them somewhere easier than trying to go through the wastes with a lot of foot walkers."

Ohanzee just leans back and smiles at Temush as the Ostrich Rider responds, then turning to Henal as he speaks he responds "If we enter the Hero world then yes... and no. Like Amara said for the spirit world, it is everywhere and nowhere. No Time too."

"It is not as simple as just dropping them off where we want either. There are places where the boundary between the worlds is thinner, weaker, but you have to find them in this world or that. You then have to know which weakness in one world relates to a weakness in the other. Or you have to know how to bend the one world to the right place on the other."

He shrugs "But anyway we are not intending to invoke a full quest are we? That is a whole different matter than re-enacting a quest here in this world."

Taking a swig of his drink he turns his gaze back to Temush "My wife, indeed I think you'll find I'm the one who is grown up enough to leave the bachelors tent, something that you do not qualify for last I noticed." and he smiles again more broadly.

"Yes, dead I've been. Twice in fact I've left this body or good as. I've also been an enlo and I can tell you for a fact that any slave they have is a survivor or would have been eaten."

"And you assume that they are all town folk, but they are as likely to be nomads or foreign warriors."

"But yes, I'll escort them if that is what is needed, despite any problems that might cause. I am sworn to the Wandering Rangers and if we do this as the Wandering Rangers then that oath binds me to this too."

"Seems to me that for all this planning you want to do you need information that we can't get. Why don't you ask Sun Hawk what you'd be letting yourself in for?"

He stands and walks out before Temush can respond, to his face at least, dismissing himself with a "Gotta piss" over his shoulder.

Temush puts his thumb to he nose and wiggles his fingers at Ohanzee's back. 'Tent, schment...' he mutters

Chuckling at the antics of his fellow Rangers, "It's a pity we are so far away from the Giant Finger Holes as we could have persuaded Gadesha to help move anyone we free, just like we did when we rescued Ohanzee from the Red Thorns." He rubs the scars on the palm of his left hand, "If we had a shaman with us, maybe we could enter the spirit world here and leave it at the Finger Holes? But if we some how get them there, what will become of them? Even if we succeed in making a new tribe, will they all learn to ride or become a new group of Oasis people?"

Retaining his wan, lopsided smile and still speaking softly, Hoskar murmurs Best teach them to ride, Melock. Many different mounts perhaps. Can't imagine the tribes ever properly accepting a set of walkers.

He seems huddled in on himself almost, and takes another pull from his mug.

Nudging Hoskar, "As long as they're not riding Sables," Melock laughs. Noticing Hoskars quiet mood, Melock cuts short his laughter, "What's up? not looking forward to going against the trolls?"

Raising his head from his cups, Hoskar glances across at Melock then back down. It's not that. Well not really. Last time didn't go well with the Uz and it's not something I am looking forward to, but we all have to to walk the walk.

Probably just readjusting. From the quiet of the wastes to the noise of the city. Excitement at being back, knowing things, then realising I'm not back either. You're never quite back where you were, you know. People leave, things change. You might say the spider spins on he remarks in lugubrious tone.

He shakes his head then looks back up with a happier but still wry smile, and shrugs. Having forgotten to put down his mug, he nearly spills the precious fluid in the process and has to juggle a moment to avoid waste.

Probably be alright tomorrow. Staying sober for days what with missions can't have helped any. Reckon I'll wake up with a sore head and a new start he adds more brightly.

And thank you. Friend. Melock. That you asked is a help by itself.

Temush clinks his tankard against Hoskar's stabilised mug and slowly puts it down with extreme care on the table before sparking out and narrowly missing upsetting it when his head lands insensible on the woodwork

Since her newest friend was a sable rider Amara kicked Melock under the table. "I am not sure if we should even make the attempt to form a new tribe. I am happy as a SkyWatcher. I celebrate our differences....even including the ravens."

Before he gets chance to reply to Hoskar, Melock lets out a yelp as Amara's foot connects with his shin, "What was that for?" He leans forward to rub his leg and his eyes focus on Temush's unconscious form, "Then what do we do with the ones we rescue?" Sliding his chair slowly back, Melock walks, with a slight limp, over to the fire place and finds a piece of charcoal. He blackens one of his fingers and walks quietly up behind Temush, with a cheeky grin, Melock leans over him and with his blackened finger gently draws disorder and darkness runes on Temush's cheek. Smiling he walks back to his seat, sits down and carries on like nothing has happened. "Like it or not Amara, we're on our way to becoming our own tribe and the more of us there are the better our chances."
This message was last edited by the player at 11:05, Sun 02 Sept 2018.

Not expecting much of a reply, Hoskar settles into his cups. Then flinches at Melock's yelp. Then settles again.

The more the merrier he murmurs, his tone flat. And each one different. And arguing. I'd nominate me for leader. Fit in the...er...whassitcalleds...interstices. Thatsit. Except I'd be a useless leader. Happy sidekick.

He brightens up suddenly, fumbling for his pouch. Anyone else feel like a smoke?

Water is the way for you now, or else morningtide comes sadly. Do not claim I did not warn you when your mother's ire approaches.

Amara looked sad at Melock's comments "You think so? I thought we were doing well as separate tribes. Our strength comes from diversity. The rangers grow strong, but the thing that unites the rangers is not clan or mount. It is one vision. The return of the green. It is one song, sung by many voices from all tribes. That is where we get our strength. Make us a tribe, and we force others to sing our song. We get involved in tribe politics, and instead of people dealing with us as the rangers, they deal with us as rivals. This is not the way forward."

Hoskar blinks owlishly, fumbling to stuff tobakeh into a surprisingly recalcitrant pipe.

Haddn' seen it like that he observes, slurring his words considerably. Donwe have a clash comin sometime anyhow? When Ohanzees bigger than Featherwait an KobalandAmara bigger thanna khan an I'm tradin bigger thanthem?

Tribes wonlike it. Be a threatoneday.

Gloriousvision, thesongthough. Bright hope. He manages to enunciate the last two words with surprising - if careful - clarity.

His eyes swim briefly into focus, happily moistening at the picture Amara has painted, and he puts down his pipe with elaborate care. Scuseme. Think I might need to do something private. Outside. Backson.

Melock's face drops, "You're right Amara, I hadn't thought that far ahead, as usual." his grin comes back as he watches Hoskar carefully put his pipe down. "We could ask the ones we rescue if they want to join the Wandering Rangers. I wonder if the tribe forming quest could still be used, but instead of making a new tribe, use it to make the Rangers in to a tribe that welcomes everyone," Melock thinks for a moment, "No that makes the same problem." he shakes his head, "I can't see a way round upsetting one tribe or another, maybe in the morning with a clear head." Melock pushes his drink away.

There's a story my parents used to tell, pipes up Grundar. Maybe it might help? Four different beasts living on the plain together, a rhino, a bison and so on. Each could protect itself with its horns, teeth or claws, but none were invincible on their own. Every now and then they would be attacked by broo, but they didn't care. No! The would form a circle, butts together in the middle and horns, teeth and claws on the outside. No matter which way the broo came, they were defended and stayed safe and strong. One sad day, however, they fell out. History has forgotten why, but I suspect it was something petty and unimportant, it usually is. Each went to its own corner of the plain. Now when the broo attacked, they could sneak up behind where they were unseen and the beasts vulnerable. One by one they were picked off. Four different beasts, four different tribes, strong together, weak apart. Perhaps we can be different tribes and yet one?