"Keep your wits about you, and remember to never pick a fight with Skakdi. Mata Nui be with you."

These were the last words Turaga Koeti said before waving goodbye. The cargo vessel set off for the island of Rangi Motu shortly thereafter. The docks were usually busy with Matoran unloading resources from incoming ships, but on the day of departure only a single vessel had someone behind the wheel, and only a skeleton crew was still at work. Apart from this handful of Matoran, the Turaga was alone on the docks. His dark gray Miru - usually wearing a jolly smile - looked almost mournful as they left. The Turaga of Earth kept watch over the ship as it grew ever more distant, before finally turning back towards his home village. From this point on, he knew he could not offer them any help. Instead, he trusted them to keep watch over each other.

With the small ship propelled forwards by an efficient water pump engine, the course was kept steady and the voyage went by at decent speed. It was a nice and seaworthy vessel, but had no commodities beyond a place to sit down. For the five Matoran aboard, the limited space and the pump's droning tock-tock-tock noise gave them the impression that the journey would be long and boring.



As the island's silhouette became visible through the thin mist surrounding it, however, the weather took a turn for the worse. The sea suddenly got rough, with waves several meters tall lifting the ship high before dropping it down, and heavy rain was bearing down on deck. The dome protecting the one behind the wheel from the elements was covered in running water, reducing sight ahead to a blur. Only the flash of lightning would occasionally give enough contrast to spot the shoreline ahead. Huddled together in the room below deck, four other Matoran could do nothing but wait out the storm. The floor rose and sunk with the waves, and occasionally the crack of thunder could be heard through the hull.

Then, calamity. While drawing near the shores of Ranga Motu, the vessel suddenly struck the sharps rocks of a reef concealed by the sea. A meter-wide gash was torn in the metal below the waterline, and the ocean began pouring in. Even with barely a kio left till landing safely, the journey looked like it might end prematurely at the bottom of the sea. Luckily, the boat had enough speed and bouancy to reach the shoreline. With no time for a proper landing, it soon ran aground on a beach, with the loose sand plugging the hole and preventing any more water from getting in. The Matoran on board found themselves up to their waist in water, but otherwise safe.

Rain was still pattering down on the dome protecting the boat's driver from the weather, making it hard to see much else than sand, water, and what appeared to be lush jungle ahead. Through the blur of the rain, something large and silvery-white appeared to be moving slowly around the beach on four legs.


The boat is stuck, but you can tell that you've reached your destination. What do you do?



One of you took the wheel. Who was it? You've kept your feet dry for now, and have a view of the outside.

The rest of you are below deck, with water splashing around you. If you exit the ship, there is currently heavy rain and strong wind. Below deck you are shielded from the weather.


Info about the boat:

• The wheel is a pair of handlebars that can be rotated left and right, with a solid lever for controlling speed and a switch for dropping and raising the anchor of the ship.
• The controls have a seat with space for a single being, and are sheltered from the elements by a transparent dome.
• In the space next to the seat is a hatch with a ladder leading down below deck.
• Behind the control room is a flat deck with simple railing and little else. It has its own ladder leading below deck as well.
• The boat could comfortably fit six of you below deck, though if you had another person it would have felt a bit cramped with all the gear your brought.
• The seats are in the back next to the engine, while near the front there's a storage crate and the two ladders side by side.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 1):

I guess I was steering the vessel given my past experience with boats. (?)

"We've landed" I cry down the ladder, slowly losening my shaking hands from the steering wheel and moving the lever for controlling speed to stop the engines "You alright down there?"
I push the switch to drop the boat's anchor - just to be on the safe side. Wouldn't want to be washed back into the ocean.

Then I try to get a better look through the rain at the silvery silhouette.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:36, Wed 03 Jan 2018.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 2):

“I have suffered no injury.” Velike replied, standing up from the kneeling position he had taken as the weather took its turn for the worst.

“I can not speak for the others yet. I shall check upon them.” He called out, turning and moving to check their companions.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:00, Wed 03 Jan 2018.

The anchor dropped with a satisfying thud, giving the impression that the ship would be safe from drifting away.

The rain had its moments where it didn't fall quite as heavy, giving Tameku a better look at the immediate area. He quickly spotted a path leading into the jungle to the north, along with what appeared to be a stone structure standing next to it.

Judging by its shape, color, and slow movement, the creature on the beach appeared to be a Dermis Turtle. These Rahi were a common sight in many places around the world. Usually peaceful until intentionally provoked, their hard shell and odd tusks were still not to be trifled with. Rumor had it that they could predict the weather, and for this reason you would seldom see one moving around at all in a storm.

The turtle appeared to be using its tusks to dig through pieces of driftwood and other scraps crashed onto the rocks. What could it be looking for?

In reply to Velike (msg # 3):

“I’m okay, too,” Kirina assured. She pushed herself up on unsteady feet, adjusted her mask, and checked her pack. Once certain that nothing had fallen out during the crash, she climbed up the ladder into the driver’s cabin.

In reply to Kirina (msg # 5):

"Seems like we're not the only ones the storm hit, but at least we appear to have been more fortunate than some others", Tameku said as Kirina appeared in the hatch, still looking at the wreckage on the rocks. "How bad is the damage?"

In reply to Kirina (msg # 5):

“Good. I do not believe anyone has suffered injury.” Velike replied, callling out from below deck.

In reply to Velike (msg # 7):

“Unless there’s a Toa of Iron hiding on this island, I don’t think the ship will sail again,” Kirina explained, “We hit something on the way in that ripped a hole in the ship. We’re all unharmed, but the water in the hull is waist deep.”

In reply to Kirina (msg # 8):

Tameku frowned. Simply from habit already starting calculating. "...well, at least it wouldn't be cheap to get this thing repaired and into the water again, then...", He finally said and then shrugged, "But I guess concerning ourselves with a way to leave this island once we're finished here can wait." He pointed towards the trail and the stone structure. "This seems to lead somewhere where there might be people."
Tameku grabbed his carrying sack/bag with his equipment from beside his drivers seat. "If none of you have a better idea I'd suggest we try to reach civilization." He scowled at the sky. "Preferably somewhere with a fire and a roof over our heads."

In reply to Tameku (msg # 9):

"I will agree with this notion." Velike said as he climbed out of the hold, having ensured the others conditions.
"When shall we proceed?" He asked, settling his bag across his back as he pulled his spear from it's straps in preparation for possible danger.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 9):

Darren sat in the hull, contemplating his options. On one hand, he could safely sit inside the boat safe from the chilling rain, but up to his waist in similarly chilling water. On the other hand he could go outside into the rainy, unfamiliar, and probably dangerous environment with the others and leave the safety of the boat.

There wasn't much to contemplate as Darren stood to climb the ladder, clad in full armor with his mace equipped to his back.

"We've landed? I'm still seasick." grumbled lutorian as he slowly made his way to the deck, trying to make sense of his surroundings.
"maybe that stone pillar could tell us about our location, or the destination of the ground-path" He called out, gesturing at Velkie.

In reply to Lutorian (msg # 12):

"Perhaps... I will head first towards it, those who wish to may follow behind me, I will guard against any potential dangers." Velike said after contemplating Darren's suggestion, moving towards the lowest edge of the ship.

Having surveyed the damage, it was clear to everyone on board that the boat would not be seaworthy again until repairs could be made.

Flipping open the outer hatch, Darren was met with howling wind and rain coming in sideways. While not exactly pleasant to a heat-loving Ta-Matoran, the temperature was still liveable enough, and the guard's heavy armor kept him standing steady in the face of the wind. He could see the ocean throw large waves onto the shore, but thanks to the reef they had passed none were high enough to reach the deck.

Lutorian and Velike followed closely after Darren, and were just in time to catch another flash of lightning as it struck somewhere far in the distance. Several seconds later, thunder rolled past them. Besides the Dermis Turtle still minding its own business near the other wreckage, from their new vantage point the three Matoran noticed a handful of other turtles half buried in the wet sand. These had apparently opted to sleep through the storm inside of their shells.

Velike reached the lowest end of the tilted vessel and climbed across the railing onto the beach. A rush of seawater flowed past his feet before receding once more, and he could tell that it would most likely not be dangerous to traverse the area, despite the bad weather.

Suddenly, over the the noise a mournful whistling could be heard from no discernible direction. Although distorted by the wind, to the Matoran on deck it sounded almost like the cry of a Rahi unlike any one they had heard before.

How do you proceed?

Tameku made sure one last time that the boat's engines were deactivated, then climbed down into the boat's hold, briefly glancing around to make sure they didn't forget anything of potential use (even if it would just fetch a decent price).

(maybe a good time to try out the dice)
No night vision - probably pretty dark in the hold.

Tameku rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4.

(that the correct way to post that?)
This message was last edited by the player at 11:53, Fri 05 Jan 2018.

There wasn't much light left below deck, but the dim light pouring in from the hatch was enough to see comfortably. As he looked around Tameku spotted a glint of metal below the shallow water. It turned out to be a discarded plate cutting tool left behind by a dock worker, which had been shaken out of its hiding place beneath the storage crate after the crash.

The shears blades about twice the length of his own hand, with the blade set at slight angle compared to the handle. Judging by the hint of rust along its edge the tool had been there for a while, but it still looked perfectly usable.


You found a set of metal-cutting scissors. You can tell there's nothing else left in the boat now.

Yes, good way of quoting it. You can copy-paste the whole line like if you wish. If you feel this takes up too much space, you could also make it small:
12:46, Today: Tameku rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4.  No night vision - probably pretty dark in the hold.

This message was last edited by the GM at 14:01, Fri 05 Jan 2018.

Tameku shook the water from the scissors, then put them in his bag. Seeing nothing more that caught his eye, he climbed up the ladder to the deck, joining the others.

Darren shields his eyes from the sidewise rain, and walks to the front of the ship as he hears the rahi cry. He looks for the origin of the rahi, basing it off of sound and searching for any trace of it.

Darren rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1: Looking for rahi that made the sound

Unfortunately, the extreme conditions at first made it impossible for Darren to tell where the strange sound was coming from.

As he was scanning the area where the turtle Rahi was last seen moving, the Ta-Matoran suddenly felt the ship tilt oddly. Looking down, he saw the sand begin to sink into a small pit right next to the ship. Suddenly the whistling intensified greatly, before turning shrill and morphing into a terrible chittering sound.

The source of the noise became all too clear: Something had noticed their approach and crept up on them, and they were about to find out what.

What do you do?

In reply to Game Master (msg # 19):

Velike quickly readied his spear, turning and rushing towards the emerging creature, peering readily in hope of sighting it and identifying it, making sure to give a quick glance to his surroundings in case this was a trick.

Velike rolled 5 using 1d6 with rolls of 5.
(If I need two rolls for what I'm doing I'll fix this)

Velike
Good roll! You have two skills that apply, however: Your spear training, and your background as a guard (which presumably involves fighting/defending). For that reason, you can actually roll 3 dice. Before I make a response, make another roll with 3 dice. Since you already got a success with just one die, I'll let you keep whichever result is better. :)

"Fire-spitter, there's dermis turtle's sleeping in the sand along the shoreline, we may have crash-wrecked onto a few of them." Lutorian spoke out while making his way to velike. Pulling out a light stone to try to help velike see into the pit "Keep that spear ready just in case" He muttered.

I'm still not familiar with how the dice rolling works but I wanna search for the Rahi.
Lutorian rolled 6 using 2d6 ((3,3))

In reply to Game Master (msg # 19):

Darren pulls out his mace, and takes a moment to judge the range of the appendages. He plays it safe and jumps down a couple yards outside of the estimated range. He tries to sneak towards the rahi, stopping to silently wave the others back.

Darren rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 4,1:  Sneaking up on the rahi, using movement with armor as second die? Is that correct?

In reply to Game Master (msg # 21):

(Ok now that's cool. Here's the rolls: Velike rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,4,1.)

Bleh, sorry guys. Looking closer, I have to reconfigure the default dice roll. It's supposed to only keep the highest value, not add the values together.

Please make note than in order to do so, I have to set the default roll as "2 dice, keep highest 1". It's a bit awkward to Make sure to check how many applicable skills you have when you make a move, and adjust as needed.

02:51, Today: Game Master rolled 5 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 5,1.  Testing new default roll.


Velike
Your new roll would therefore be a result of 4, but you still get to keep the previous result of 5.

Darren
Each roll uses the entire dice pool, and you keep the highest value from it. If you wish to do a sneak attack, you may use the same result for both. In this case that would be 4 (due to my mishap with the roller), leading to a "yes" result and dealing 2 damage.

I'll be back shortly with a proper IC post for you.

Velike moved quickly, taking a stab with his spear at the Rahi trying to emerge from the sand. The Rahi trashed around in anger while still making its awful noise, throwing wet sand everywhere. Multiple limbs could be spotted waving around, but due to it gray and beige coloration it was hard to see exactly where the Rahi ended and the sand began.

Even so, with Velike providing a momentary distraction, Darren swung his mace at the mass of limbs. He felt the impact when it struck the creature's armor and dented one of its chitinous plates.

When Lutorian brought his lightstone closer to get a good look at the Rahi, however, the bright light caused it to suddenly turn its attention towards him. The Le-Matoran could see a thick, segmented body with gray armor, which would have been roughly on eye level with him were it not for the shallow pit it had dug for itself. Many short spines - beige in color - sprouted from the creature's back, and a pair of spindly legs were attached to each of the segments. The head tapered off into a fanged mouth, with four narrow, green eyes glaring menacingly at its would-be prey.

Locking onto the lightstone as the most obvious target in sight, the centipede-like Rahi lunged forwards, crashing into the surprised Matoran's arm, causing him to drop the lightstone. It landed just past the edge of the sand pit, and began rolling down towards the center while the Rahi - still in pain - struggled to retract its body back underground.

What do you do?


For the sake of clarity, I'll list the exact numbers and their effects now in the beginning so we get a hang of the system.

Velike: Result of 5 = "Yes". Success, hit for 3 damage.
Darren: Result of 4 = "Yes". Success, hit for 2 damage.

I can reveal that this Rahi has no defense. It's lost 5 HP total, and is looking hurt already.

Lutorian: Taking highest, that's 3. Result of 3 = "Yes, but...". Partial success or success with complication. In this case, you got to see the Rahi clearly up close, but it attacked you as a result.

Game Master rolled 6 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 6,2,3.  Rahi strike! Predator, trap-digger.

Result of 6 = "Yes, and..." Unlucky for you, that means you take 4 Combat damage (subtract your 1 Defense for a total of 3 HP lost), and the extra result is that you drop the lightstone because the creature aimed for it.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 26):

"The beast is faltering! This shall end now attacker!" Velike yelled, lunging at the beast, spear ready to stab.

Velike rolled 6 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 6,2,5.
(Man I am rolling well today!)

In reply to Game Master (msg # 26):

Darren moves down into the pit and swings his mace at the rahi, intent on not allowing it to escape so easily from the small group of matoran.

Darren rolled 4 using 4d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 1,1,1,4:  Moving into the pit and attacking. Bonuses used: Mace Combat Training, Guard Profession, and Movement w/ Heavy Armor
(Meanwhile I'm not rolling nearly as well... 1,1,1,4...)

"Not a Dermis Turtle!" Lutorian cried out as the creature lept out to him.
Seeing Darren jump into the pit, Lutorian throws down a grappling hook, trying to restrain the Rahi. "I'll try to restrain it! if things go ever-bad you can grab onto the rope to keep from sinking down with it!" he called out to Darren

Lutorian rolled 5 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only ((5,3))
I'm going to assume that agile affects throwing stuff.

Tameku never got close enough to the others to actually see the Rahi. Still, he immediately took cover behind the boat's railing at the first sounds of combat. He was a merchant, he was accustomed to pay people to deal with stuff like this for him.

The centipede trashed from side to side, sinking lower segment by segment and drawing in a heap of wet sand as it did so. Before it could vanish beneath the sand to escape or strike again, however, it was surprised by the Matoran leaping into the pit to chase it. The hunter had become the hunter.

Velike's spear struck dead center, causing the creature to stop its retreat dead. Digging seemed to become impossible for it, and the sand beneath their feet stopped crumbling inwards.

The enraged predator lurched forwards, shaking rainwater off its armored head. It lowered its head, preparing to bite, but Darren hit it on the head as it came down, causing the Rahi even more frustration. It shifted its attention once more, uncertain of which Matoran to deal with first. Its eyes were unfocused, and it was clearly dazed.

Wounded and tired as the Rahi now was, Lutorian had no trouble with attaching his grappling hook to the many-legged beast. It resisted him, but seemed incapable of loosening the hook that had stuck itself in between two armored plates at the base of its neck.

The Rahi is wounded, has stopped digging, and is temporarily restrained.


Velike: Critical success! Dealt 4 damage, and stopped the Rahi's decent.
Darren: Success. Dealt 2 damage.
Lutorian: Success. The Rahi is now focused on breaking loose instead of doing anything else.

For the record, it's lost a total of 11 HP, and doesn't look like it has much left.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 31):

Oh man, I’m sorry, guys. I didn’t realize a fight started. I’d jump in, but it sounds like I’d just be kill-stealing. So I’ll do this, instead:

Seeing that the others had the mysterious Rahi handled, Kirina attempted to sneak past the creature (Kirina rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 6,2.  Attempt to sneak past the Rahi (Stealth Skill)), and search the sand in hopes of finding some form of tracks. (( 13:02, Today: Kirina rolled 4 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 4,1.  Attempt to track the origins of the Rahi (Tracking Skill))

Despite moving carefully around the sand pit, Kirina needn't have worried. The rest of her group was keeping the Rahi occupied, and its screeching mixed with the rain to drown out the sound of her footsteps. Reaching the opposite site of the pit compared to the others, the Vo-Matoran realized that with Lutorian keeping it still, the Rahi's back was exposed and entirely undefended.

Looking over the tracks in the sand, Kirina noticed that they ran in a circular, sweeping pattern. On a clear day the beach would not have had any tracks left visible, but with the sand wet there were several obvious lines visible where the creature had dug its tunnels. Apparently it liked making large sweeps back and forth as it tried to corner its prey.

About ten meters away from the Vo-Matoran - close to where the beach ended and grass began, nestled between a smattering of flat rocks poking out of the sand - four Dermis Turtles were still sitting motionless inside of their shells. They were seemingly unaffected by the storm and the commotion going on in their home.


Kirina
No problem. To avoid mixing in date stamps and other data with the IC text, put the rolls in a list at the bottom of the post. It's fine like this for now, though. :)

Sneaking, result of 6. Critical success, granting an advantage.
Surveying the tracks, result of 4. Success, you have located where the Rahi came from (information private to you at the moment).
The last tidbit of info is coming simply from moving to a new position.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 33):

“Hey guys,” Kirina called out to the group, “I found what looks like its burrow. I think the boat destroyed its home when we crashed. I’m gonna look around and see if there’s anything else to watch out for.”

She continued searching the area, this time looking for any sign of others of its species.

Kirina rolled 2 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 2,2.  Searching for more threats. (Or not...)

In reply to Game Master (msg # 33):

Darren continued to swing his mace at the rahi, hoping to incapacitate it.

Darren rolled 4 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 4,2,3:  Attacking the Rahi!

In reply to Game Master (msg # 31):

"Fall foul beast!" Velike yelled, stabbing once again.

Velike rolled 6 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 1,4,6.

(... what the hell?! WHY CAN'T I ROLL THIS GOOD IN DND?!)

Over the noise of the wind, the waves, the screeching of the Rahi and the shouts of the fighting Matoran, Tameku could faintly make out Kirina's voice. Still keeping his cover behind the boat's railing he tried to make out the Vo-Matoran's words, suspecting the others might be too caught up at the moment to pay her any attention.

12:29, Today: Tameku rolled 2 using 1d6 with rolls of 2.  Trying to listen.

Kirina looked as best she could from her current vantage point, but was unable to spot anything more of interest. If there were any more threats in the area, she could not tell. Due to being underground, the Rahi's nest was also impossible to check out without digging it up first. The constant rain might make that difficult.

Meanwhile, Darren's mace hit the side of the centipede. It clattered against the chitinous metal, shaking a plate loose just in time for Velike's spear to slip into the gap and strike a softer, organic part. The Ta-Matoran knew immediately he had dealt a serious blow that would likely take weeks to fully heal.

The continuous, noisy cry from the Rahi gradually faded, and after tiring itself out it finally stopped completely. Struggling against its bonds, it's movements slowed, until they came to a complete stop. The Rahi fell forwards, its segmented body falling to rest in the sand with a wet thud. A closer look revealed it to be unconscious, although a few signs of life remained.

The group of Matoran could take a breath of relief for now.


Kirina: Searching, result 2. That's a miss, sorry.
Darren: Attack, result 4. Success, dealt 2 damage.
Velike: Attack, result 6. Critical success, dealt 4 damage and dealt a lasting wound. Even if it wakes up it won't be in shape to fight you again any time soon.
Tameku: Listening, result 2. Also a miss.

Everyone: Congratulations, you have prevailed! The Rahi is down, and no more immediate threats are visible. The wind and rain are still going strong.

Current points of interest:

• Buried Rahi nest, right where your ship struck land. May or may not be empty.
• The stone marker and small structure next to the path leading through the jungle ahead.
• Washed up scraps and the Dermis Turtle that's not resting like the others.
• Whatever else you would like to do. Your call.

As the Rahi's screeching died, Tameku finally took a careful glimpse over the railing, and, coming to the conclusion that the danger was over, stood up.

"Ok then", he said, "I propose we get as quickly away from here as we can ere more of these beasts decide that we might qualify as food. Oh, and well fought. Would I pay you, I'd offer a bonus. As things stand you'll have to make do with my sincere thanks."

(by the way - wouldn't this battle give XP to those who have partaken in it? Or how else are we rewarded with XP?)
This message was last edited by the player at 14:09, Sun 07 Jan 2018.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 39):

Satisfied at her (hopefully right) assessment that there is no more danger, Kirina turned her attention back to the nest. “Can someone give me a hand over here?” She called out as she started digging.

After we end a "scene" the team receives anywhere from 1 to 4 XP, depending on what's happened. I was thinking the beach is the first scene of sorts. Once you leave it we'll hand out the rewards and give you a chance to either spend it on skills/stats, or keep it for later.

Breathing a sigh of relief, lutorian gathered his scatterd equipment, making mental notes about the creature’s apparence.

“Happy-plan kirina, a rahi like this would probably drag it’s prey down into the sand, not sure if you’d find anything other than scraps of its food though.”

Still lutorian assisted her in her digging efforts by trying to use his throwing disk as a makeshift shovel.

Sighing inwardly at the complete ignorance of his words, Tameku carefully climbed down from the boat onto the beach. While he had no intention adding "being dirty" to the things that currently bothered him, he nonetheless went over to where Lutorian and Kirina were digging. Another set of eyes surely couldn't hurt if there actually was something interesting to be found. And if he was fast enough he could maybe even snatch it for himself. If he was anything then he was an opportunist.

Tameku rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4.  Searching for treasure while the others do the actual labor.

With their combined effort, the Matoran managed to dig out a sizable amount of sand. They soon discovered that the tunnels had collapsed almost immediately after the Rahi had dug them, leaving only sand sludge and dirty rainwater inside. It appeared digging up the rest of the beach would be a fruitless effort, and unlikely to yield any more findings.

The rearmost segment of the Rahi's body had two short, hooked appendages. They were similar to a pair of extra legs or prehensile tails. Gripped by these was a ragged rope woven from plant fibers, tied around three fish that were roughly the length of a Matoran's forearm. One was still intact as if freshly caught, but the others had been picked clean so that only the metallic bones remained. They had been a Rahi's dinner for sure - but the creature had certainly not caught them by itself.

Tameku looked closer, and noticed another palm-sized object tied to the rope, partly hidden by the fish lying on top of it.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 38):

As the rahi fell Velika walked towards it, staring down upon it. His spear held across his shoulder.
"You are no longer our enemy. We shall bother you no longer." He said before tilting his head downwards, his hand clasped across his hearlight.
"The time that was gifted to you was not spent in vain. Time will not judge what is spent, be it in evil, good or survival, so long as the what you were gifted is used and once run dry to give your leave willingly and calm. While your time has been paused it is not cut short. Survived, survive and spend what you have left as well as you can. Time will not judge your sins, but your appreciation, and yours has been well run." He said in prayer, bowing, his hands clasped in prayer before turning and returning to the others.

(Told you I was using this)

In reply to Game Master (msg # 38):

Darren breathes a sigh of relief as the rahi fell, taking a moment to recover. Afterwards he would walk the area around the boat for anything else unusual while the others work, eventually noticing the structure. He walks over to investigate.

Lutorian realized that he’s sitting in a big hole in the sand for no other reason than kirina wanted to find stuff buried in the sand, and now he sits there contemplating what he’s just done and the sand that now fills his joints.
Lutorian shovels a big load of sand and dumps it on kirina’s head, and leaves the pit without saying a word.

Velike felt certain that the Rahi, while still unresponsive, would certainly have appreciated his words. One could hope that it would not blindly attack Matoran in the future.

Darren moved away from the others, reaching the edge of the beach in short order. A quick look told him that the marker held two simple messages chiseled into the stone.

The structure next to the road marker was a wall about as tall as himself. It was shaped like half a circle of rocks stuck together with clay, with a few carved pictures on the inside. The opening faced away from the beach, meaning Darren had to move around it to see what it hid.




Darren: You've checked out the structure. Report to the others if you wish, or they can see for themselves.

Everyone: Got nothing new for you right now, but the previous list and replies still apply. Don't be afraid to take actions that advance the narrative from here. :)

Tameku followed Darren to the path with the stone marker. He immediately felt a lot safer leaving the open terrain of the beach behind and approaching the jungle with its trees. He took a look at the stone marker.

Tameku got a look at the stone marker and the structure with a curved wall next to it.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 49):

Kirina shook the sand pile from her head in annoyance. She stood back up and glanced around the beach, noting the Dermis Turtle that seemed to be searching for something. Brushing the excess sand from the crevices of her mask, she decided not to incur further wrath from the team by wandering off. As she turned to follow the others to the monument, she made a mental promise to keep an eye out for any other Rahi acting outside the norm.

Tameku did something... (private to GM) (hope this works?)

Kirina surveyed the beach, and took notice of the turtle moving about. While overall peaceful and non-threatening, it had gotten a bit closer to them, and appeared to have a metal rod of sorts sticking out of its shell near the shoulder. Completely unfazed by this object, it had picked up a piece of something green that it was now lazily chewing on. Was it... metal?

The Vo-Matoran eventually reached the two already present at the stone marker, and got a good look at it herself.

Tameku seemed interested in inspecting it further, no doubt using his expertise as a merchant to look for details that would be lost on others.

Meanwhile, the storm was still raging around them, ensuring that the footprints they left in the sand were turned into puddles in short order.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 48):

“Hey, there’s a village over that direction.” Darren yells over the rain, pointing from the natural umbrella of the trees. He doesn’t bother with the little statue, as getting out of the rain was more pressing.

In reply to Darren (msg # 54):

“Good. Shelter would be useful in this storm. Let us hope any inhabitants are friendly.” Velike replied, staring where he’d indicated before heading towards it, his spear in hand.

"Seems like this village is populated by Le-Matoran", Tameku said, still looking at the statuette. "Hey, Lutorian, Kirina!", he called over, "There are some carvings here of what look like Rahi. Has any of you an idea what they could be? I'm definitely not interested in another nasty surprise like that on the beach" He gestured towards the carving with the many sharp-beaked bird Rahi on the right.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 56):

Similarly uninterested in more surprise Rahi attacks, Kirina followed Tameku’s gesture and inspected the carving, as well.

(Kirina rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 1,6.  Attempt to identify the Rahi depicted in the carving.)

“Alright” lutorian replied to tameku, making his way over yo the others.
Once inside, lutorian investigated the statues, trying to see if he could identify any of them or see if he could decifer their behavior from their apparence.

Lutorian rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only ((6,6

Darren and Velike started down the path, finding it soft and muddy, but relatively dry compared to the beach. The treetops far above swayed violently in the wind, but down on the ground the forest provided something of a natural shield against the storm. They could walk and speak a bit easier here. No village was immediately visible from where they stood, but with any luck it wouldn't be too far.

Meanwhile, Kirina and Lutorian took a moment to check out the Matoran carvings and statuette.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 59):

“The larger bird looks like an Akifira eagle, and the smaller is a Kewa. Kewas are domesticated birds used by Le-Matoran, but the eagles do sometimes hunt Matoran. It looks to me like this is a Le-Matoran and his Kewa bird fighting the eagle. Akifira are rare, but if there are any on Rangi Motu, the resident Le-Matoran should be able to help us fight them off.” She stopped and turned to Lutorian, “At least, that’s what I’ve heard. I don’t know much about mountainous Rahi.”

Lutorian gives kirina a quick sideways glance before responding “yes that’s correct, they only hunt at dusk, and rarely attack matoran. Your also right about this being a battle-flight, capturing one while in high-flying combat is one of the greatest respecable tasks a le-matoran can do, this might be a trophy of some kind”

"Then let's try to get a roof over our heads before dusk. I'd rather not meet one of these Akifira, Le-Matoran Kewa riders rushing to our aid or not."
Despite his words, Tameku didn't move, instead slowly reaching out a hand to touch the statuette. "But something about this sculpture is strange... shouldn't it be wet from the rain?"

When Tameku placed a hand on the carved figure in front of him, he felt something odd.

A moment later, the surface of the figure was beginning to darken from the wet spots of rainwater hitting it. The rain that had been flowing off Tameku's mask, on the other hand, was suddenly gone.

Thunder cracked somewhere far away, feeling more distant than before.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:02, Wed 10 Jan 2018.

Tameku quickly snatched his hand back, then, realizing that the wood sculpture was rapidly getting wet, quickly touched it again in hopes of reversing whatever it was he did.

Try as he might, Tameku could not make anything happen. The statue remained entirely unresponsive.

"Damn, damn, damn, damn, damn", Tameku muttered, touching the figurine again and again without anything happening. That he himself was now protected from the weather he hardly noticed. He had the impression that someone might get really pissed off if the sculpture got damaged by the weather, and he really didn't like people getting mad at him. Being in trouble wasn't good for business.

He wondered if the figurine might fit in his bag. He could return it in the village and apologize for whatever elemental thing he accidently disrupted. He was good at dealing with people.

“Tameku what have you done! By touching that you’ve been cursed! You’ll die in three days if you don’t sacrifice a Matoran to the Akifira”
Lutorian yelled out, his mask having a larger grin than usual.
“Whatever caused the statue to keep dry, is working on your mask now.” Lutorian said in a more serious tone.
As for the statue, we could bring it to the Le-Matoran and say we’re ever-sorry and maybe they’ll forgive us. We’re usually jolly-folk anyway.”

In reply to Game Master (msg # 59):

Darren walks down the path a bit, before turning to look back at the other two matoran. "Hey, are you guys coming along?"

Tameku realized that the figurine, which was about as tall as his head, would fit snugly into his bag so long as it could be removed from its pedestal. It appeared to be wedged in pretty tightly, but could definitely be loosened... hopefully without damaging the goods.

Meanwhile, Darren surveyed the path ahead, and spotted a number of exotic plants among the grass and ferns. Further ahead, a more narrow path split off from the main road, leading in between dense foliage to some unknown location.


Tameku
It can be carried. Needs a roll to get it loose, though.

Everyone
Staying on the current path will presumably lead you to the village.

Tameku carefully tried getting the statue loose, but it became clear that he would have to apply some force to actually manage that. Carefully he selected a part of the statue that seemed well suited to get a good grip on it but also seemed sturdy enough to not break off if he pulled on it. He pulled, carefully applying more and more of his strength, until...

Applied skill: Judging Craftsmanship to pick a sturdy section of the figurine to pull on

Tameku rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 6,3.  Pulling loose the figurine.

(that figurine is a magnet for sixes XD)

The wooden carving slipped out of its circular socket, revealing that it was no more than a centimeter deep. The bird idol was a bit heavier than it looked, but not so much that it would be a problem for the Bo-Matoran.

The well-known Matoran symbol of air was carved into the flat stone surface where the statuette had stood. More notable, however, was that the center of this surface held another, smaller circle, a hole dropping into darkness. The stone pedestal appeared to be hollow. Just as soon as Tameku had removed the figurine from this spot, a strong air current rushed out of the hole and burst towards the sky like a miniature whirlwind, high as the treetops. Seconds later it spread outwards, blowing away the rain for a brief moment before vanishing entirely and leaving the five Matoran standing in silence.

The rain returned, but this time it fell straight down. The wind had stopped blowing entirely, and only rustling leaves gave the impression that it had even been there a moment before.


You're gonna to spend all your luck too early in the game. :P

I'm going to give the others a chance to respond after this.

This message was last edited by the GM at 11:31, Wed 10 Jan 2018.

"I have the strong feeling we should get to that village immediately", Tameku said, "Or else we might mess this up even more." He put the figurine into his bag to protect it from the rain.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 71):

“Time has been angered.” Velike stated, staring into the sky with a worried look in his eyes. “My prayer did not give enough. A larger gift must be given soon so as to settle its anger.” He muttered, having been staring towards the village as he continued to walk, unaware of the situation behind him other than its current effects on the weather.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 71):

Kirina looked up with the others at the sudden change in weather, staring at the sky for a few seconds even after the rain returned. She glanced to the others, then back to the lone Dermis Turtle.

“Guys,” she finally spoke up, “I agree that getting to the village is important, but I think we might have another issue. Possibly even a related one.” She pointed to the turtle, “Is it just me, or does that Dermis Turtle appear to be chewing on a piece of green armor?”

Lutorian stood in confused silence as the rain fell back down onto them, waiting for someone o say something.

Hearing kirina break the silence snapped him back “You think the turtle’s eating what?” He responded, making his way to the turtle to investigate.

Lutorian rolled 4 using 1d6 ((4))

In reply to Kirina (msg # 74):

Darren watches them walk back out into the rain. "But guys, there's a village, with shelter, and fire, just that way. I can see it at this point." He points down the narrow side path.

In reply to Darren (msg # 76):

Velike, having been continuing his walk and searching for possible dangers, had yet to become aware of the situation occurring behind him. At least until he realized how quiet it had become, only his footsteps sounding, causing him to whirl around, a worried look across his face before he saw the others... still at the beach... "HOW DIFFICULT IS IT FOR YOU ALL TO UNDERSTAND THE NEED TO HEAD TO SAFETY?!" Velike yelled in anger, slamming his spear butt into the ground before stalking back towards them quickly, steam nearly pouring from his mask as he fumed.

In reply to Velike (msg # 77):

“Don’t forget why we’re here, Velike,” Kirina called back over the storm, “This isn’t a vacation, this is an investigation. We’re here because nothing’s been heard from this island’s Matoran for months and no other investigation team has returned. Did you ever wonder why?” She pointed again at the turtle, “That turtle has something in its mouth. Something green and metal. We know there were supposed to be Le-Matoran on this island, but we’ve all been assuming that they’re still here. What if we get to that village and find that there’s no one to apologize to about the totem? No one to ask about the disappearances? What if we get to the village only to find that there is no village? All I’m asking is that we see what that turtle is chewing on so we at least know what to expect.”

“Jeez guys this will only take a minute!” Yelled back lutorian, a little bit annoyed at Velike’s impatience.

Lutorian took a closer look at the object the turtle was chewing on. The docile creature seemed uncaring to his presence, and kept lazily munching on its edge. Whether the Rahi thought the metal was tasty or it just found the piece of scrap curious, it did not seem to be consuming it.

Meanwhile, standing further up the path than the others, Darren was left alone.


Everyone
Summing up the current location: There's the main path going at least a kilometer further into the jungle, a side path leading to what appears to a campfire about 50 meters away, and the beach with its turtles, shrine and shipwreck.

It's still heavily raining but the wind has calmed down after whatever you did.

Retrieving the piece of metal from the sand, lutorian quickly realized what he was holding, running back to the group.
“It’s part of a kanohi” he stated in a grim tone “wether it means a hard-lucked matoran met their fate here or not, I don’t know. But we should probably make our way to whatever meets us at the end of the ground-path now. Maybe they might know something about this mask.”

Tameku, having followed Kirina and Lutorian to the Dermis Turtle, took a closer look at the metal rod thing sticking out of its shell.

(Only the thing previously in its mouth has been examined yet, right?)
This message was last updated by the player at 10:55, Thu 11 Jan 2018.

Tameku pointed out the thing sticking out of the turtle's shell. At close range, a sharp flared tip could be seen, making it obvious to everyone that this was a harpoon, likely from a hand-held speargun of some kind. Despite the power of such weapons, the turtle's shell had been hard enough to prevent the projectile from penetrating very far. Beyond being stuck in a tiny crack in the white shell, it had done no harm at all.

In reply to Kirina (msg # 78):

Velike growled in slight irritation before turning and heading back towards Darren. “Fine, do as you wish. At least one of you understands the importance of scouting our possible safe area before meddling with potentially dangerous situations.” He muttered, uncaring of how the others felt of him as long as it guaranteed safety for his charges..

“Fine fire-spitter, we’ll leave in just a second” lutorian assured velike, while trying to pry the harpoon from the turtle’s shell, hoping it’s in good enough condition to still be used as a weapon.
Lutorian rolled 4 using 1d6 ((4))

The turtle looked questioningly at Lutorian when he came close to it, but allowed him to remove the harpoon without any fuzz. It slipped out of the crack easily, leaving the Matoran with a new weapon. It was obviously meant to be used by some larger being, for compared to his height it looked a lot more like a spear than projectile.

Tameku took the harpoon from Lutorian for a moment and searched it for any signs of its origin. He himself didn't know much about weapons as he had never traded with them, but he knew a good deal about trademarks, so maybe this harpoon could give him a hint at local trade before contact to Rangi Motu broke off.

After he had examined the harpoon, he handed it back to Lutorian.
"Let's get out of this rain then", Tameku said.

Tameku rolled 2 using 1d6 with rolls of 2.  Searching harpoon for trademarks.

Tameku
It doesn't look very special. Anyone with a forge could make this.

In reply to Lutorian (msg # 85):

Velike continued to walk, searching for potential danger as he did.

Velike rolled 3 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 1,3.  Searching for rahi/related danger.
(Would survival skills count towards a ‘search’/observation roll actually?)

Velike
I would say yes, but it would apply more to recognizing dangerous sitations/potential Rahi dwellings than it would allow you to track and/or recognize specific Rahi.

Did you continue down the main road, or the side path? Tell me which and I'll give you an outcome. :)
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:11, Fri 12 Jan 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 90):

(The side path leads towards the village like area, correct? If so I’m heading there. Also, your description of the die roll works quite well for what he’s doing, looking for potential dangers of any kind. Thanks.)

Velike broke from the widest road and headed towards what appeared to be a campfire not too far away. As he got closer, it became apparent that it was a small clearing, but no village. From where he stood, he could see past the rain-slick bushes covering the muddy dirt path, and noticed a few things inside the makeshift campsite.


What do you do?

In reply to Game Master (msg # 92):

In reply to Game Master (msg # 92):

Darren started down the side path, beckoning for the two Le-Matoran to follow.

Not wanting to anger velike again, Lutorian followed swiftly.

The others quickly caught up with Velike, and found him inspecting the lifeless body of a Le-Matoran. He lay slumped across the roots of a tree trunk, with his face missing its mask. The normally lush armor was covered in caked mud and sand. Streaks of clearer color were visible where the raindrops had run down the metal.


Clawed footprints littered the ground around the still-lit campfire. Whoever made them was nowhere to be seen, but judging by the state of the camp they must have been there very recently.


What do you do?

In reply to Game Master (msg # 96):

"Good, you've all arrived. Help me with this Matoran, he has suffered some form of injury and lost his mask." Velike told the others, standing up and grabbing his spear, saying
"I believe his attacker may still be nearby due to the presence of visible tracks despite he rain. I will scout for them in case of attack." As he started to follow the tracks for a ways.

Carefully Tameku moved over to the Le-Matoran and inspected him himself. A lot of Bo-Matoran were skilled healers. He wasn't, still he tried his best searching for any wounds.

Velike moved to the edge of the small clearing, following what seemed to be the freshest set of footprints. He didn't need to go far. The being had carefully hid itself as best it could, but the firelight reached just far enough to reflect off the brightest parts of its body, and with how on guard the Ta-Matoran was this was enough to reveal the being to him almost immediately.


Meanwhile, Tameku found that the Matoran's heart-light was on, although dim. The poor Matoran was still alive.

"He's still alive!", Tameku told the others, "Doesn'st seem injured, but he needs a mask soon. Maybe it's still somewhere near?"
Tameku looked around the clearing with the campfire.

Tameku rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1.  Searching for mask/anything else that pulls attention.

Unfortunately, there was no Kanohi lying around the campsite, and there wasn't much else either beyond firewood. It was a grim realization that the broken mask they had found on the beach must have belonged to this Matoran.

In his search, however, Tameku came close to where Velike was standing at the egde of the clearing. He looked up and finally noticed what the guardsman had spotted as well.

Tameku froze as he noticed what Velike was looking at, too. His eyes grew wide.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 101):

Darren sighs, looking at the matoran on the ground. "I guess we should take him to the village. They probably have a spare kanohi there." He moves to pick up the matoran, and looks at Tameku and Velike. "What is it?"

Darren rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3:  Picking up Matoran.

Feeling sorry for the poor Le-Matoran, Kirina was struck with a potentially dangerous plan. “We can stay conscious for a little while without our masks, right..?” She asked, reaching for her own.

In reply to Darren (msg # 103):

"There is nothing to worry about, just an... illusion of the lights reflection from the rain." Velike called out to Darren, resting a hand on Tameku's shoulder as he calmly gave a small shake of his head, his hand tightening across his spears grip just in case.
He slowly turned to face away from the Skakdi, leaving himself in such a position that he was still able to see the Skakdi out of the corner of his eye, hoping to appear less threatening so the larger being would leave.

(He may be a guard but he knows when to be cautious)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:44, Sat 13 Jan 2018.

Tameku slowly took a step back and to the side so that Velike stood between him and the Skakdi. He moved his bag in front of his torso in hopes that if the being triggered its speargun and penetrated Velike the wooden figurine might be able to stop the projectile before it could harm him.
Tameku hoped the Skakdi would say something instead of attacking. Perhaps he could talk his way out of this situation.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 106):

Velike gave a small eye-roll at Tameku's actions, a small scoff sounding as he kept his attention on the Skakdi and his grip on his spear.

Darren easily lifted the unconscious Matoran. The Ta-Matoran found that he could carry him over his back without much trouble, but it would keep both his hands occupied.

A gruff, guttural voice sounded from the bushes. It was laughing incredulously. Velike saw the Skakdi rise to full height, becoming visible to everyone in the camp. With mud and leaves covering him, the large being was still somewhat blending in with the surroundings, despite having revealed himself.

"Bold of you," it said, snorting, indicating Velike's attempt to play it cool. "I'm almost impressed. Trying to protect your friends from me, are you? You wouldn't be able to."

The Skakdi lowered its weapon and pointed the spear tip towards the ground, but kept it generally at ready. Then he nodded towards the limp body Darren was carrying, and grunted. "Are you with this guy?"


Kirina
Yes, masks can be removed and you will feel a surge of weakness. It will grow worse over time until you start becoming dizzy, then finally lose consciousness. If the mask is replaced, recovery is nearly instant so long as you don't have other injuries.

Feeling a little safer now that the speargun wasn't pointed directly at them anymore, Tameku made a gesture to his companions signaling them to let him do the talking, and took a slight step to the side again, thus being better visible to the Skakdi but still being able to get behind Velike quickly if things got ugly.

He cleared his throat.
"Well, you know, we Matoran are kinda entitled to care for each other, but we haven't ever met our unconcious fellow here. If you had any... disagreement with him, we would totally understand that and we really wouldn't want to interfere in other folk's affairs. You see, we're just coming through and would like to get out of this unpleasant rain in a village that must be nearby."

In reply to Game Master (msg # 108):

"No." Velike replied. "We were sent here to discover what changes have occurred here after a previous group went missing. It was lucky for this matoran that I recognized the potential safety of this area." Velike said, fully turned to face the Skakdi, his grip on the spear still tense but held at a less threatening position.

"I am glad that you are... friendly. I must agree I would have experienced defeat in my attempts to keep you at bay otherwise." A small grin crossing his face as he continued.
"As for beating me, I wouldn't underestimate an Honor-guard of the Va-tribe. i will admit a fight will definitely end in my defeat, but not without injuries to yourself."

Kirina’s hand had shifted from her mask towards her hip, hovering near, but not on, the hilt of her hunting knife. She watched the Skakdi carefully, ready to act if he became aggressive. She hoped to Mata Nui that he wouldn’t become aggressive.

"If you're not with him you're of no use to me," the Skakdi said dismissively, and shrugged. "I was staking out the area and found this guy washed up on the beach. Too stupid to get back to shore before the storm hit, I guess."

His gaze shifted from Tameku to Velike, but he did not seem to care much about either of them. He eyed Kirina's hunting knife as well, but lingered on it for only a moment.

"He's lucky I bothered to drag him here at all, you mean. Turtles would have eaten him way before you came along." He made a chomping, gnashing sound with his teeth to illustrate his point, then laughed at his own dumb joke. "Still, if he wasn't useful to me, I'd have left him in the sand." Paying no attention to the Matoran around him, the spined being - twice as tall and twice as wide as any of them - squatted down next to the bonfire and flicked another log into the flames. Then he gestured vaguely in some direction away from the clearing, without bothering to look in their direction.

"The village is up there... somewhere. Get out of here. Leave the dumb one with me, but don't worry, I'll drag him up there later and accept their undying gratitude for saving him." He picked something out of his teeth and flicked it into the flames. He paused for the second it took to burn away - possibly contemplating how much to say - then continued. "Only way they'll ever have a useful talk with me," he grumbled, "is if I have a good reason to do so. Turns out they're not fond of Skakdi after that little scuffle a hundred years ago."
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:39, Sat 13 Jan 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 112):

"... Fine." Velike replied. "So long as he arrives there will be good with me and your reasoning is sound." He said, turning and starting to walk towards where the Skakdi said the village was.
"That doesn't mean I trust you." He said as he turned his head to glare at the skakdi over his shoulder.  I will find out if this was a lie, and if so, I will hunt you down. Time may hold no grievances but I will." He said, a warning in his tone, turning his head back around and continuing to head off.

Upon hearing this, the Skakdi grinned in an unsettling manner. "I would just see you coming, little one," he said derisively. His eyes flashed yellow for a moment. "I can see your body heat from a mile away... and fire-spitters like yourself show up extra bright in my experience."

In reply to Game Master (msg # 114):

"Well then, it sounds like you'd be quite a fun challenge." Velike replied, a smile in his voice. "My other Honor-guard brethren would've had fun planning a hunt for you."

Lutorian had said nothing until now, wanting to let velike handle the situation, but the skakdi’s story didn’t add up.
“I believe this is yours?” Lutorian said holding out the harpoon he had found “Lucky you saved him from one of those turtles that would have eaten him” lutorian said trying to match the same crude humor the skakdi used.

"Ah," the Skakdi said, grabbing the harpoon, then handing it back after a moment's contemplation. "I was aiming for dinner. Turns out those shells are harder than they look. I'll come back some other time with a Cordak blaster and get myself some new turtle armor."

In reply to Game Master (msg # 117):

Darren hesitates, still holding the matoran. "Shouldn't he get a mask? We don't do well without them."

In reply to Darren (msg # 118):

At that velike paused. "Ah, yes... that may be a problem..."

“You seem interested in speaking with the matoran of this village, why is that?” Lutorian said to the skakdi.
“You plan to use this matoran as a tool to do that, but their condition is getting ever-worse without a mask, they may be old-bones by the time you take them there.
Lutorian pointed to the matoran’s weakening heartlight.

"Guys, you're talking to a Skakdi, in Mata Nui's name!" Tameku hissed to the others, "We're lucky he's in such a good mood or simply doesn't care about us enough. So would you please try not to get on his nerves? I'll try reasoning with him, but if he says no, then we'll go, understood?"

He turned to the Skakdi.
"This fellow here really doesn't look good, you know. I'm a Bo-Matoran, we know about such things. And I'm really pretty sure that if you drag a dead matoran into a village getting something useful out of the inhabitants might be... difficult. However, we as Matoran could maybe put in a good word for you, and of coure mention that you saved this poor soul's life. Why, they might even reward you!
So why don't you just let us save this Matoran's life and spare you the trouble of dragging him along?"

Skills used: Persuasiveness, Knowledge of how to deal with different species
Tameku rolled 5 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 5,1,4.  Persuading the Skakdi.

"You really are handful," muttered the Skakdi hunter, before rising to his feet once more. He stood in a relaxed posture, and lazily picked up his weapon so he held it by the barrel rather than the grip. The imposing figure was entirely at ease with the situation.

"Any fool can tell he's not dead, as you have clearly demonstrated. I am not about to give up my leverage, so you will speak nothing of my intentions to the villagers. If it's the only way to make you stop bothering me, however, I'll let you take him with you. I'll follow in a little while, and I expect to be greeted as a blazing hero when I arrive."

His eyes narrowed. "And: Remember that I can tell where you go, so don't try anything funny."

"Of course, sorry for bothering you. We'll be going then." Tameku made a slight bow, then turned to the others.

"Let's get going, the sooner this Matoran gets back to his people and proper care, the better." He dropped his voice to a whisper so the Skakdi wouldn't hear, then continued "And don't try to push our luck further. This already turned out much better than most conversations with Skakdi I had."

In reply to Tameku (msg # 123):

Darren nods and starts back on the path to the village, carrying the comatose matoran.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 122):

"Of course. We shall hold our end of the deal honorably, as you have so far shown truth in your actions. Of course, if a lie emerges, changes may occur." Velike replied, a slight glare crossing his features as he finished, before settling back into his more neutral look as he waited for Darren to catch up.
"So it appears I have a new charge for the time being." He muttered, staring at the comatose matoran as he rested a hand on the side of his mask.

The Skakdi seemed more amused than anything by Velike's low-key threats, though there was a cold recognition in his eyes that suggested he would be watching the Matoran carefully. The hunter watched them leave and observed them for a little while longer before sitting back down at the campfire. They lost sight of him soon thereafter.

***

The rest of the walk along the path was uneventful. Mud covered the feet of every Matoran in the party, but the rain made it easy to brush off in the wet grass if desired. About fifteen minutes after they left the Skakdi behind, they spotted another clearing ahead, this one with what appeared to be huts and a wooden fence surrounding it.

Once they reached the end of the path, they could confirm that they had indeed reached the village they were looking for. It consisted of a large, lush clearing, with patches of dirt showing through downtrodden grass. Several huts - five in total - were made of rough-edged planks. Logs placed at each corner worked as supports raised the huts about a foot off the ground to keep them dry. Thick jungle leaves had been used as doors.

In the trees above them, supported by thick branches, traditional Le-Matoran huts could be seen. Ladders and walkways had been constructed between a few of them. From the ground it was hard to tell how many there were, as they blended in with their surroundings.

Many thin logs and thick branches had been arranged to form the fence around the village. It was taller than a Matoran, and almost as tall as a Toa would be. Still, the space between each bar made it easy to look through it from both sides. There were three wide gaps in the fence: One each leading to paths going east and west, and another for the south path from whichthe group had arrived.

In the back of the village, visible through the space between the two largest huts, stood a moss-grown Suva raised on a large platform. Four stone pillars were evenly spaced around it.

Several lights were visible inside the huts, and barely any Matoran were outside. A teal-colored Bo-Matoran wearing a Noble Miru was working with a brown and silver Fe-Matoran wearing a black Hau. They were busy helping each other cover a cart filled with metal items with a sheet of some kind. They had not noticed the new arrivals yet.

What do you do?


Everyone
You have reached the village, and may take a breather. You have gotten through a couple of dangerous situations, and gain 2 XP. You may spend your XP on a new skill related to something you did recently, or you may keep the points in reserve for later.

Summary
Locations: Southern beach, wind-walker shrine, jungle path, jungle village.
Notable events: Shipwreck, Rahi fight, making the wind go away at the shrine, dealing with a Skakdi hunter.
Notable beings: Dermis turtle, sand screamer, Skakdi hunter, unconscious Le-Matoran.

Village

• Some huts are on the ground, with more in the trees above. Lights are on.
• A fence surrounds the village but it has no gates blocking access.
• There's a Suva in the back.
• Paths lead south (back to the beach), east, and west.
• A Bo- and Fe-Matoran are working on something in the rain.

Lutorian
It's been some time since the fight. You recover 1 HP.

"Greetings, fellow Matoran!", Tameku called over to the two working by the cart, "Does your village have a healer? We found a Le-Matoran on our way here and he has lost his mask and suffered who knows what else."

Gonna spend my 2 XP on a new skill: Observation
I imagine this would grant me another die when I'm trying to search for something specific or am just trying to notice things by looking around a place

Does this work?

Upon hearing Tameku's words, the two Matoran stopped what they were doing for a moment and looked at him with some surprise on their faces. They glanced back towards each other and exchanged a quick nod. The Fe-Matoran stayed behind to continue tightening a rope keeping the sheet covering the top of the cart, while the Bo-Matoran let go of the cart and hopped down onto the ground before approaching the newcomers at a brisk pace.

"Greetings, travelers," he said, rushing past the formalities. "Mata Nui, that looks like Aeko! We wondered where he had gone! Take him to the largest hut over there, and I shall bring the Turaga to you."


Let's do the skill talk in the OOC thread. :) I've replied there.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 127):

As Tameku spoke Velike gave a soft glare, saying “While we in truth did find the matoran we were not the first. A Skakdi did. According to him he found Aeko upon the beach while he was hunting, he brought him to his camp after attempting to chase off a few Dermis-turtles. Currently he has given us no reason for mistrust so I believe what he said, current events have shown potential proof.” He finished, starting to walk forward before pausing.
“Oh yes, my charges injuries.” He muttered, turning around and walking over. “Tell me, do you have any spare masks on hand? If not at immediate access I will offer mine until then.” He said, wrapping the fingers of his right hand around the edge of his mask

"You have a Turaga here? Good, once Aeko has been cared for we need to talk to him."
Tameku gave Velike a nudge with his elbow. "And we tell the Turaga our story first ere we start a panic or something", he whispered to the Ta-Matoran, "The Skakdi indicated there's bad blood between this village and his species."
He turned to the Bo-Matoran: "Ignore my friend for now, get the Turaga. We'll get Aeko into that hut. Darren?"

In reply to Tameku (msg # 130):

“... Fine. Your logic is solid.” Velike replied quietly. “Ignore my last speech.” He said turning back to the Bo-matoran. “It is unimportant at this current time. Now then, about the mask question?” He said, moving his hands to a more readied position to take his off.

"Skakdi!" the Fe-Matoran spat, and tugged violently on the rope in order to finish the last knot. "Bunch of savages, all of them. I had hoped they'd be out of my sight once I left the desert." He walked over to join the chat, but kept silent so the Miru-wearing one could speak.

"This is Ferrin," the Bo-Matoran explained. "He's a trader from the fortress far off in the western desert. Most of the Skakdi on the island are settled in that area. No one's fond of them." He looked over at Ferrin, and asked: "Hey, do you happen to have any spare Kanohi in that cart of yours?"

Ferrin shook his head. "Only tools and raw materials," he replied.

The Bo-Matoran frowned and turned back to Velike. He closed his eyes and made a short bow. "Then we are grateful for any aid you can offer, traveler. Excuse me, I must fetch the Turaga." With that, he turned and left for one of the huts near the other side of the village.

Ferrin watched him go, then turned to address Tameku. "The Skakdi rampaged across the island about a hundred years ago, in some sort of territorial dispute. I didn't want to remind Keu of it, but old Turaga Wasiru died trying to calm down a warlord. This village still remembers that day. If a Skakdi comes near this place, there will be trouble." He peered towards the sky with amber eyes shining from behind his black  Hau. "I'm leaving as soon as the rain clears. You should do the same."
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:47, Mon 15 Jan 2018.

"What's your destination, Ferrin?", Tameku asked. "While I can't say with certainty what my friends and I will do after we've spoken to the Turaga, nor what our next destination might be, perhaps we could travel together at least some way? Since we just arrived on this island it would be of great value to have someone around who knows this land. Especially those two Ta-Matoran are very skilled with their weapons, so you'd even get some additional protection against Rahi and whatever else lives here."

In reply to Tameku (msg # 130):

Darren nods, carrying Akeo over to the hut. After putting him down in the appropriate place, he walks back to join the group.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 132):

“Ah, you are welcome. It is my duty to protect my charges, be they temporary or not.” He replied, following Darren to the hut, waiting for the matoran to be placed down before removing his mask, visibly drooping tiredly, if only slightly (for now), as his connection was removed before placing it across Akeo’s face.
“There. That should help.” He muttered, walking outside of the hut and attempting to take up a guards pose, leaning  on his upright spear for support as his energy was gradually drained.

“Finally, a dry place” Lutorian sighed once the party had entered the hut, sitting down by a wall to rest.

"I was originally going to continue on to the eastern coast and deliver some ore," Ferrin said to Tameku, "but word has it the docks are closed anyway. My goods won't get sold now. I'll be returning to the desert, and check on my people." He swiped some water off his mask's forehead, then he motioned for the hut. "Let's get out of the rain. Fe-Matoran metal is guaranteed stainless, yet I still feel like I'm rusting over here."

Meanwhile, three Matoran already inside the hut rose to their feet to check on the newcomers. One - a Le-Matoran with dark green feet - came to the front of the trio. The lightstones illuminating the hut glinted in the visor he had in place of a regular Pakari's eyeholes. The others - both Bo-Matoran with dark blue bodies and green masks - stayed in the background.

The one with the visor watched Darren place Aeko on the floor, and nodded respectfully in aknowledgement of his rescue. He looked surprised when Velike offered up his mask, but seemed elated when the one called Aeko began stirring to life. The Le-Matoran motioned for one in the back. "Dendri, quick-fix the traveler," he said. "I'll see to our friend."

Dendri nodded, and followed the two Ta-Matoran out of the hut. Her hands and mask of Sensory Aptitude appeared to be stained with sap and other plant matter. She reached into a satchel woven from leaves and pulled out a capsule made from wood, which she presented to Velike. "This is Kaka extract," she explained. "If you start feeling like you're going to faint from lack of energy, drink it. It's not as good as a Volo sphere, but it's all I have access to right now." She waited for him to take it, then added: "You are very kind, by the way. Not everyone would lend their mask to a stranger."

Inside the hut, the Le-Matoran kept watching over his friend, who was not yet conscious. "He'll wake soon," he mumbled, then turned his attention to Lutorian. "Smash-land, did he?" he asked, but stopped himself. "Oh, quick-pause, very rude of me! I should welcome you first! This is Lebotu Koro, welcome! What brings you here in such weather?"


Velike
You receive a dose of Kaka extract. It will give you an energy boost when ingested.

“Thank you for the happy-welcome” lutorian quickly responded
“We crash-wrecked on the beach and had to come looking for shelter, we were sent here on a journey-quest by a turaga named Koeti.
As for your friend, we found him on the way here, his mask was shattered.” He said while giving a look to the others to make sure he wasn’t telling too much.
“but we have matters to discuss with your turaga ever-quick”

"The docks are closed?", Tameku asked Ferrin, "Did you hear anything as to why? Isn't this island's entire economy based on maritime trade with ore?"

Inside

"Two-faced luck, then! The beach can be dangerous, but finding your way from there is easy. Stay for shelter if you will; we have plenty. The wind already lessened, I bet the rain will too." The Pakari-wearing Le-Matoran suddenly seemed excited. "I think he's waking!"

Aeko's eyes flickered to life. He sat up, slowly. He looked around in bewilderment, touched the strange mask on his face to feel its contours. After a few moments, he spoke. "You found me then. Thought I was done for when I hit the rocks." Then his voice faded, but he drew his breath to calm himself and kept speaking. "I don't think I know you?" he asked Lutorian, once he became aware of his presence.


Outside

"Yes, they are closed," Ferrin confirmed. "The weather's been atrocious these past few weeks, and neither ore or sailors will do any good at the bottom of the ocean. The volcano's been restless too. I heard the lava forges have been shut down so the sluices can be reinforced."

The Fe-Matoran pulled out a thin slab covered in etched writing, and peered at it for a few moments. He pointed at a line and showed it to Tameku to illustrate his point. "Due to the chaos, only one shipment of tools was completed and sent at all lately. It's been days since I last heard from that side of the island, though. Messages travel slow when bird-riders are forced to stay on the ground."


The Bo-Matoran from earlier returned then, with a Turaga in tow. The green being was tall and lean, and appeared thin yet in good shape. He wore an oddly-shaped mask with flared edges and carried a broad-bladed spear. His yellow eyes observed the group of travelers with a kind but wary look. Seeing the others mildly occupied, he looked to Darren and Kirina first.

"Greetings," the Turaga said, and nodded respectfully, then placed his free hand on his back. "I am Turaga Lhevan of Lebotu Koro. I've been told you brought our lost brother back to us. We are most grateful."

In reply to Game Master (msg # 137):

“I... Thank you.” Velike replied as he took the offered Kaka extract, putting it in his satchel as he leaned on his spear.
“I... perhaps I am kind.” Velike muttered. “While a Va honour-guards duty is to protect what they are assigned to ward with their life I remember a few who would not have done as such...” He said in a surprised, if also tired tone, a ponderous look in his eyes.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:14, Tue 16 Jan 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 140):

“Nice to meet you Turaga, my name is Darren. And there’s no need to thank me, it’s what anyone would’ve done.”

Tameku tried to read some of the stuff written on Ferrin's stone tablet before the Fe-Matoran packed it away again.
Seeing the tablet gave him an idea. "Say, Ferrin, I have writing material with me, do you think you could maybe draw up a rough map of Rangi Motu with some important places for me?"

Tameku was so focused on talking with the Fe-Matoran that he hadn't noticed the Turaga yet. Tamkeu followed Ferrin towards the hut while they talked, though.

Skills used: Observation
Tameku rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 6,3.  Reading tablet.

Dendri crooked her head and looked quizzically at Velike. "I'm sorry, I don't think I've heard of the Va before."


Turaga Lhevan smiled at Darren's words. "Perhaps," he said, "but it still commendable. We have been distrustful of strangers for a while, with all the trouble going on elsewhere in the world. We haven't had Matoran from other lands visiting in a while either, so it's nice to see a friendly face for once. The last group that passed through was too absorbed in their own dealings and barely spoke with us. Then there's the Skakdi..." Lhevan stopped himself and smiled once more. "But enough about that! I shall check on the fisherman you so kindly rescued, and make sure you are provided what you need. Then you may tell me what brings you here, once we have a dry roof over our heads!"


Tameku gleamed some information from the tablet, as it was fairly easy to read.

Ferrin glanced over his shoulder as he pushed the leaf door aside and walked inside. "A map? Of course. Keep in mind I'm not the best artist, but give me a few minutes and I'll do my best."


Tameku
Good roll. You got a good view of the shipment details, as well as some extra info.

Inside the hut Tameku turned to the side and opened his bag - taking care that it opened towards the wall so no one could see the statuette. That matter was better discussed with the Turaga. He eventually retrieved his tools for recordkeeping and handed them to Ferrin so he could draw the map on one of the metal plates. Drawing would be quicker for now, he'd be able to etch it into the plate later himself if he wanted.

He looked around if the Turaga was already to be seen and noticed Lhevan. Immediately he went over. "Greetings, Turaga, my name is Tameku. I'm sorry to be so blunt, but there are some things of great importance we have to discuss with you immediately."

In reply to Game Master (msg # 144):

“Oh, yes, that’s right.” Velike replied in a tired tone. “I had forgotten the ‘oddness’ of my beliefs and tribe to others.” He muttered, a mildly ashamed look on his face before he paused, thinking.
“I am not originally from my companions island.” He said in start of the explanation. “My tribe resides on an isolated island within the unexplored zone. When we first... ‘awoke’ we were lost, confused, unknowing of much of the world around us and the existence of others besides the rahi we were forced to fight, except for small stories, memories of tales and legends of hero’s that wielded powers unimaginable and gods unseen, all of which I later learned were history we had lost. Until the first items washed ashore.” He said, a look of... wonder on his eyes.
“Small trinkets, boxes containing weathered tablets, pieces of ships. From those few items our knowledge grew, from the discovery of others existence to even more tales and legends!” He said excitedly, obviously enjoying when he could talk of his past, settling down quickly as he was reminded of his current state of draining. “While much of what we learned was not complete, due to damage of the tablets, we learned much, especially of the tales of items with the power of time, if not fully explaining what they could do. It wasn’t until a carved image of a mask design, and what it was supposed to do, washed up that we truly started to veer away from the norm of our kind. It was small at first, whispers of the beauty of the mask, the power that it must wield to be connected to a force such as time, a force we had already believed to be all but stoppable. Then it grew, slowly we started to believe that if something so powerful could be wielded as it was that it must retain some form of sentience, the items we had gained obviously gifts to teach us, the items vessels of it’s will, soon becoming a belief that we had been assigned to worship it, to protect the knowledge and share it with a hero, one who was worthy!” His honesty in what he was saying noticeable despite the absurdity of parts.

“We built our island into a fortress, walls to protect and fend off rahi, our knowledge used to create weapons of protection, forges to craft items such as the disks of power we had read of, while ours were much... weaker than what I have seen of others we did eventually manage to make them work.” He said in a semi-ponderous tone.
“A temple built in times honour! Our Turaga’s the leaders of prayers and voices of time! Our greatest welders assigned to creating ‘copies’ of times vessels, wielded in ceremony as an honour, and our names changed to honour it's greatest vessel, the Vahi! Mask of time! The few copies attempted made only for our leaders to wear during prayer so as to better our connection as we repayed time with a gift of our own given! Even our armour was modified to represent some aspect, such as my chest plate!” He said in an honoured tone, reaching across it and clicking a small switch, causing an angled line of metal to begin to tick from side to side on a metronome like fashion before he reclaimed the switch, pressing the bar back into place, a happy look on his face before it grew slightly more sullen.
“Until it came.”
“A shadowed being, some enemy of time, we attempted to fight it off, I and the other honour guards assigned to the wall to defend it as weapons were set up. We were doing so well, it seemed to be about to flee and we became... cocky. Our guard lowered, if slightly, but still enough for it. The last I remember was preparing to plunge my spear within it before a force slammed into me, throwing me into the sea where I soon passed out in pain, my last sight was of part of the wall crumbling. I do not even know if any survived.” He said in a forlorn, devastated tone.

“I was lucky to wash up upon their island. They took me in, healed me and in return I swore to protect them along with keeping time’s honour alive. It took years before I finally realized how different my people were, why my speeches of times greatness and wishes for others to join in honour drew me ire and shouts of heresy... so I adapted, I kept my beliefs but kept them more silent and learned to understand and even agree with many of your own, of Mata-nui and the great beings. Of course, I did not keep silent for everything, even after learning my kind were known as Ta-matorans I kept my tribes kind alive, we are Va-matoran, and that shall never change.” He said, a fire lit within his eyes before he sagged down, leaning heavily on his spear as he looked down upon the ground. “I can understand if I have offended or disgusted you in some way. If you wish to call me a heretic or some other such name or no longer speak with me you may. I will understand why and will not argue.”

(Also, sorry for crazy length and whatnot... I get really into backstory at times as you can see... ehehehe *rubs back of head in embarrassment*)
This message was last edited by the player at 21:02, Tue 16 Jan 2018.

Ferrin took the tools from Tameku and promised to finish the sketch as quickly as he could.

Lhevan greeted Tameku with a respectful bow. "I understand. I just told your companion here that I will be right with you. I just need to see that poor Aeko is doing well." The Turaga motioned for them all to follow, and walked towards the hut.


Meanwhile, Dendri leaned forwards and peered at the odd mechanism in Velike's armor. "Never seen or heard of anything like what you told me of," she said, but looked very interested. "Shame about your people, I hope you reunite with them one day."

"If you are used to fortresses and forges brimming with weapons, you would feel right at home in the Fe-Matoran fortress in the west. Sometimes I feel like all they think of is war." She straightened her back again, laughed, and made an apologetic gesture. "Of course, they make a lot of nifty things too. It's just that the Skakdi camps are so close to their home, they can never relax."

Then the Bo-Matoran thought of something, and her eyes lit up. "Oh! I know! You should visit the village in the mountains past the glacier. The Ko-Matoran have done research on all sorts of myths and mystic powers, and Turaga Tiowaka is one of the rare - and skilled - mask makers who's not a firespitt-- eh, a Ta-Mat--, Va-Matoran! Er... sorry." Dendri looked quite embarrassed at herself. "Anyway, if you wonder about time, they claim to see the future sometimes. The Onu-Matoran underground too, though they mostly predict it by looking at patterns throughout history."

"Tiowaka would love to hear about a Mask of Time. You'd get along; he's very odd too! Er... uh. Yeah." She wisely shut up before she accidentaly insulted Velike any more than she already might have.

“‘Old gheezer’, your life-tale is great and all, but we have more important things to tell the turaga about” lutorian said to velike with a playful tone.

“Our turaga-elder sent us on a journey-quest here, we crash-recked on the shore. More importantly, we have a certain Fellow we need to quick-talk about” Lutorian said while glancing over at the newly awakened matoran, and a quick shot at Ferrin, not wanting to get him yelling about skakdi again.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 147):

Velike seemed a touch surprised at her reaction, seemingly having expected something else before he smiled brightly. "Thank you. I hope I reunite with them soon myself. As for not hearing of us, well, it makes sense, as I said, we were quite isolated out there. As for the fortress you talk of, it sounds like a nice place to visit, similar to my own. While we typically aren't that violent bound we were always prepared for an attack by rahi or otherwise." He explained, a happy smile on his face as he listened to her next suggestion an amused chuckle emerging as she stuttered around with the names.
"No need to worry, I understand what you are trying to do, it appears I myself wasn't clear enough in my explanation actually." he replied in a slightly sheepish tone. "I did not mean to imply that only Ta-matoran are considered of the Va type, no our tribe was composed of all of the different types pf our kind, why, for a while we didn't even understand there were differences and now, they don't matter. A va-matoran is not an attribute but a type. All who wish to worship time, to protect it are considered Va-matoran in our eyes, we may not be of the time element itself but that does not mean we cannot consider ourselves such." He explained, an amused twinkle in his eye before raising an eyebrow at Lutorian's comment.

"I'll have you know I am not that old, oh sure, most likely older than you but I'm still just as spry as when I awoke." He replied in an amused, jokingly boastful tone, as he leaned on his spear.

"Also, as for those future seers, I must check them out, they sound like they'd bring a fascinating conversation."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:41, Tue 16 Jan 2018.

"Hearing about the future is always interesting, but usually the seers are a bit, uh, like this." Dendri looked into the distance with a slightly slack-jawed expression for a few seconds. Then she snapped back to normal and smiled. "Get what I mean?"

Meanwhile, inside the hut, the Le-Matoran named Aeko had recovered some of his strength. "I'm fine, don't worry about me," he said, still sitting down and wearing Velike's Kanohi. "I'll return this mask as soon as I find mine too," he continued, unaware of the item's fate and the likelihood that Lutorian had not been referring to him as the 'fellow'. Lhevan traced a finger along Aeko's mud-covered shoulder plate as he passed by. He inspected the dried dirt for a moment and then wiped it off on his own forearm. It left a dusty brown smudge on the lush green metal. "Aeko, keep this up and you'll be under-dirt quicker than an Onu-Matoran," he muttered.

The Turaga turned to the others before the Le-Matoran could reply. "If you are good, I will quick-chat with our visitors," he said, noticeably switching to a treespeak dialect once he realized Lutorian spoke it too. "If you came by boat today, you must be first-timers to Rangi Motu. Locals know storm signs well. I was ever-worried we'd even have to still the wind, but it stilled on its own. Soak-rain, on the other hand..."

Lhevan trailed off, then focused on the matters at hand. "A 'fellow', you said? Important matters? You have my ear."

In reply to Game Master (msg # 150):

Velike gave a small chuckle at that. “Ah, sounds familiar to a couple of our turaga or more ‘fanatic’ members, long... meditative ‘trances’ to try and see time. Of course they could be quite fun, I knew one that worked in a familiar fashion to the Onu-matoran ones you have spoken of.”

"Actually multiple important matters", Tameku said, "I guess we should start with how we found Aeko..." With that he told the Turaga about the Skakdi they'd met and that he seemed to actually have been the one who saved Aeko from drowning. "And the Skakdi said he really wanted to talk to you, but suspected you would refuse if he just came by. I... might have promised him you would talk and maybe even give him a little reward in order for us to get Aeko here as fast as possible." Tameku paused. "I hope this was acceptable?", he asked, nervously wringing his hands. "Oh, and that Skakdi might turn up here any minute."

In reply to Game Master (msg # 150):

Darren nods. “I suppose we just chose a bad time to show up?”

Dendri leaned back against the wall of the hut and looked towards the sky. The rain was ineffective at making the sap on her mask run off, but she did not seem to mind either. "It will be clearing up soon," she said to Velike, sounding a little like a seer herself.

Lhevan's smile had vanished by the time Tameku finished speaking. He closed his eyes and remained in deep thought for a short time. "We'll talk with the Skakdi, then," he finally said. "He did a noble thing, and did not barge in uninvited. We will honor that."

The Le-Matoran with the Pakari frowned upon hearing this decision. "Turaga! Skakdi are all toothy grins, claws and spines! They are harsh and cruel, spit venom and tell lies. We should chase him away, if we can."

Turaga Lhevan smiled wearily. "For what reason, Metanu? Beat up one, and the rest will battle-strike. We should not provoke them." He turned his head to look at Darren. "Perhaps you came at the wrong time, or perhaps it was the perfect time? Without you, this Skakdi would have shown up unannounced, and we may have mad-struck without thinking if we saw him carry an unconscious Matoran. You may have chance-saved the village."

He looked at those who had gathered in the hut, and contemplated what to say next. "Depending on what he wants, however, we may not be so lucky. Did the Skakdi mention it to you?"



Everyone
Come to think of it I have some minor illustrations I made for the last campaign I ran, such as for the Turaga, a simple island map, etc. Would you like me to use them, or just stick with text-only?

"No, Turaga", Tameku answered, "He just said that he figured saving Aeko was the only way you'd talk to him at all and that we shouldn't tell you of his intentions - not that he told them to us." He considered for a moment if there was anything else. "I think he mentioned that he was staking out the area when he found Aeko, if that means anything to you. Metanu isn't entirely wrong, though, I strongly recommend being careful as well. For a Skakdi this guy was almost too nice to be true. He definitely has something on his mind beyond simply talking, if you ask me."

"Let us twice-hope it's not territory," Lhevan said. "Toa drove the Skakdi off to the desert one hundred years go. Since it borders plenty-rich landscape they have enough resources to survive, and enough space to infight without destroying anything but rocks and sand. Still... they may hold a grudge." He pondered this for a few moments. "If the warlords band together again, they may spread across the rest of the island. No Toa remain to stop them this time."

He tapped the floor with his spear a couple of times. Metanu immediately straightened up, and the Bo-Matoran in the back of the room finally rolled onto his feet and wandered over.

"Get your weapons, but keep out of sight" he instructed them. "Inform everyone that a Skakdi is stopping by to talk." Metanu and his companion quickly bowed and rushed outside to carry out the order. Lhevan then turned to his visitors, but before he could speak Metanu stomped back in.

"The ever-nice Skadki's at the gate," was all that needed to be said.


What do you do?


Velike
You find yourself right outside the hut, and have a clear look at the gate.  Dendri and the unnamed Bo-Matoran are next to you. Remember that you currently have no mask.

Darren, Tameku, Lutorian
You are with Turaga Lhevan in the largest hut. Metanu and Ferrin are with you. Aeko, still shaken, is sitting on the floor. He's wearing Velike's mask.

Everyone
The villagers have not been informed of the exact situation, but their reaction to the Skakdi may hinge on how you act. Beyond two village guards with spears, they did not have time to arm themselves.

This message was last edited by the GM at 12:20, Thu 18 Jan 2018.

"Ok, ok, let's consider everything real quick." Tameku said, raising his hands in a gesture he hoped would prevent anyone from panicking and doing something stupid. "If the Skakdi really only wants to talk, then everything should be fine for now, even if he brings bad news for this village.
"In the worst case, it is as the Turaga fears and the Skakdi want to reclaim the island. If this is true, they'd probably benefit from removing the leaders of their rivals - meaning you, Turaga. This Skakdi might not want to talk at all, but just wants a clear shot with his spear gun - one he would only get if the Turaga would accept to meet him. It might seem like this doesn't quite add up with the fact that he allowed us to warn you of his coming, but then even if there were several dozen armed Matoran around, us telling you about him and how he saved Aeko would maybe lead him to believe that this ensures that he gets the chance for this one shot he needs."

Tameku blinked a few times, processing what he just said.

"We cannot send someone else to talk to the Skakdi, though, since he might consider that an insult", he added. "And we really need to inform the villagers about what's going on - Lutorian, you're the fastest one here, could you maybe climb up to those tree houses real quick and keep the Matoran from panicking? And relay the order to arm themselves and keep ready, just in case? Darren - I'd suggest you stay with the Turaga, if nothing else you might be able to protect him with your body - that armor of yours looks sturdy enough to take a spear gun hit. As to myself, I'm not sure what I could do out there... In fact, I think it might be smart to not let the Skakdi see me - best not to remind him of the "reward" I promised him..."

"Oh, and maybe Velike could use his mask back for this... encounter", Tameku said when he met Aeko's eyes. "Anyone have any more suggestions?"

In reply to Game Master (msg # 156):

“Ah, that will be nice.” Velike replied to Dendri, while not visibly uncomfortable from the water from his tone it could be told that he’d prefer it being gone.
“Ah. He’s here.” Velike muttered as he saw the Skakdi, giving him a warning glare as he nodded back, attempting to hold his spear in a warning position, being forced to settle it back into its upright position as he wobbled unsteadily, leaning against it in weakness.

“Happy-plan Jungle-brother. Happy-luck to you.” Lutorian responded as he quickly went off and began heading towards the upper canopy.

Aeko struggled to get on to his feet. "You're right," he said to Tameku. Then he placed both hands on the borrowed mask and pulled it off his face. The Le-Matoran stumbled, but shook his head and offered the mask to Darren. "Give this back to your fellow firespitter," he said. "I can stay awake without it, but I won't be of much use anyway. My injuries need time to heal."

"I appreciate your aid," Lhevan said. "This hunter may be wary of us because our desert-dwelling brothers are battle-proven in Skakdi eyes, but I will not rule out that it's a trick to get to me." He tapped the side his mask with his index finger. "I could dodge one shot, at least in my heyday. In case he shoots, don't stand behind me."

The Turaga looked towards the door. "I should go before he gets impatient," he said. "Are you all prepared?"


Outside, the Skakdi was already on his way. The spiny giant took a few steps forwards through the gate, his clawed feet digging into the mud and leaving large footprints with each step. One of the village guards approached the hunter whilst shakingly brandishing his spear, but the larger being simply moved his hand around the speartip, grabbed the weapon's wooden shaft, and yanked it from the Matoran's grip. Without breaking stride he flipped it around and stuck it into the mud, leaving the Matoran humbled and defenseless.

The Skakdi still only had eyes for Velike, and the yellow glow in them faded back to a more muted orange light as he approached. His vision power had been turned off. "I know the Turaga is inside," he grumbled, not bothering to introduce himself. The hunter then barked a single laugh and leaned in slightly closer. "But first, where did your face go? Did you trip and smash it? Actually, never mind! Look at you! Still trying to be scary with that little stick of yours."

The Skakdi lurched forwards, and as a result he was suddenly towering over Velike. His broad frame and large spines were enough to stop the rain from hitting the Ta-Matoran at all. "I know your kind keel over without a mask on, but you're unlike that fisherman and the scaredy-cat you were with earlier, aren't you? What's your name?"

Watching in fear, Dendri involuntarily took a step backwards, finding her back against the wall. She didn't dare move a muscle.


On a walkway made of planks in the trees above, Lutorian found himself outside several dwellings weaved from branches. The inhabitants around him - multiple Le- and Bo-Matoran - had begun peeking out from the trees and huts, some carrying spears and knives but none looking ready to fight. Down below, the Skakdi could be seen trying to intimidate Velike.


What do you do?



Darren
Aeko is handing Velike's Kanohi Huna over to you. Like Tameku says your armor could protect you from a speargun hit, but on the other hand that weapon also managed to make a crack in a sturdy Dermis turtle shell.

Tameku
Nice analysis. The Turaga plans to go out without a bodyguard, but he's definitely a bit more cautious. You could possibly persuade him to do something else if you feel like this is a bad idea. (Would require a roll.)

Lutorian
You've climbed a ladder to a wooden walkway, and find yourself standing roughly six meters above the ground. It is comfortably broad but has no railing. You estimate that the trees in this part of the jungle must be at least twenty meters tall, and you can spot the sky through the top of the clearing high above.

Velike
The Skakdi has singled you out for now, it seems!

While he couldn't understand the words, it was clear to Tameku that the growling voice just outside the hut must belong to the Skakdi. He already had an image of the big being ripping open the door in his mind, spear gun at the ready.

"Wait, Turaga! That Skakdi is too close! We need to get some distance between him and you in case he tries anything so you have time to react!" Tameku glanced about the room, trying to figure out a way to keep the Skakdi at bay. His eyes settled on Metanu. "I know! In one way or the other this is just politics. And in terms of politics he was quite rude so far. You might agree to talk to him, but this is still your village and he wants something from you, not the other way around - so actually you should demand that he gets back to the gate and waits for the Turaga, not simply march in like this place belongs to him. Especially given your history with the Skakdi. Metanu should do this, as he can speak for the village.
"Also, please Turaga, take Darren as a bodyguard with you. And maybe Velike, too. We don't lose anything by being extra cautious."

Skills used: Persuasiveness, Knowledge of how to deal with different species
Tameku rolled 5 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 3,1,5.  Holding back Turaga for the moment.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:29, Fri 19 Jan 2018.

In a commanding voice lutorian ordered the scattered matoran “The skakdi wishes to speak-talk with the turaga-elder, we will stay up-tree unless things go terrible-bad!”

The Turaga stopped in his tracks, but did not seem entirely convinced. "If I was still a Toa, I might have done that. If we had a fortress, we might try. We are not like our iron-chinned brothers in the west, however. We can't take an angry Skakdi head-on. He doesn't know Metanu and doesn't respect his authority. It's better not to risk it." He made a motion as if to continue walking.


Up in the trees above, a timid Bo-Matoran's voice called out to Lutorian: "I was going to do that anyway!" The knife he held was dull and covered in plant material. Clearly it was not meant for fighting Skakdi.



12:55, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Turaga Lhevan, rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 1,6.  Discussing tactics.
Skills applied: Turaga's authority.

Tameku
Lhevan is moved to stop by your comment, and loses 3 Social HP. Taking your Soc.Def into account, you lose 3 Social HP in return (2 left). Lhevan is a reasonable fellow, though. He can be convinced with just a little more talking, and if you have any good arguments to add, take +1 to the total of your next roll.

For the record: Social HP will refill immediately after a discussion ends, so don't worry about not having any left.

This message was last edited by the GM at 12:05, Fri 19 Jan 2018.

"Turaga", Tameku lowered his voice so only Lhevan could hear and switched to a pleading tone, "Without your guidance this village would stand even less of a chance against any Skakdi. You might view yourself as the protector of these Matoran, but right now the best way to protect them is not to take any risks that might lead to them getting rid of your protection and guidance unless absolutely necessary.
"Besides, by sending Metanu we don't lose anything - the Skakdi clearly isn't here for him, so in the worst case he'll probably just bat him aside, but not hurt him seriously - which would at least give us a warning that he's indeed up to no good."

Skills used: Persuasiveness, Knowledge of how to deal with different species

Tameku rolled 5 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 3,5,1.  Persuading Turaga.

Do I get a +1?

Lhevan's grip on his spear tightened, and he stayed silent for several moments before replying. "You are right," he sighed. "I will still have to talk to him, of course, but we can afford to do so on our own terms. Thank you for the advice." The Turaga of Air nodded to his assistant. "Metanu, you will represent me as my right hand, then. We will take a minute, then you will go out and tell this hunter that I must see to our wounded brother, and ask him to wait by the gate in the meantime." Metanu gave a brief salute and stood ready to carry out the order. Lhevan placed a hand on his shoulder. "Ah, without treespeak, please," he added.

"I will ever-try, Turaga," Metanu replied, and his shoulders slumped down a bit.

Lhevan walked a bit further away from the door and sat down next to Aeko, who seemed markedly better despite missing a mask again. The Turaga looked up at Tameku. "Once Metanu has delivered the message, we'll take another few minutes," he said in a low voice. "I will have to sit here with Aeko until then, in case the Skakdi scans the hut or bursts in early."



Tameku
Yes, you get the +1, which happens to be just enough in this case. :) Social HP refilled.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 160):

“Velike.” He replied, still attempting to keep up his warning stance. “Va-matoran honour guard of the cult of time. Do not worry, our deal has been kept. The matoran has recovered fine and reported a story that matched with your own.” He said, standing straighter, arching his back slightly so as to stare into the Skakdi’s eyes, trembling slightly from exhaustion but his gaze unflinching and clear of fear.

“My charges have been talking with the turaga and should have told him of your help. So long as the rest of your request remains truthful I shall not attempt any delay or harm against you.” He said in a truthful tone before his eyes hardened for a touch as he said “But if you have lied I shall find a way to harm you, mask or otherwise. As said before, time may hold no grievances but I shall.” His tone as icy as his gaze before he setled back into his previous, less aggressive, wary stance.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:51, Fri 19 Jan 2018.

"I'm Krezok," replied the Skakdi hunter. It was hard to read his bestial facial expression, but it was clear that he was somewhat impressed by how confident Velike was in the face of danger. Krezok took a step back and twisted his torso to look around. His eyes flashed yellow for a moment, then his gaze shifted upwards. "So many out to greet me, yet no one is singing songs in the great hero's honor." He laughed again, but his mood was gone as quickly as it came.

"I don't lie," he said, in a serious tone. "I don't have to. I'm stronger than all of you and have only one very simple mission today." The Skakdi tapped his clawed foot, but gave up when all it resulted in was soggy mud splattering everywhere. A few drops hit Velike's feet. "So why isn't the Turaga out yet?" he growled at the door, quite loudly.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 167):

“I... do not know.” Velike replied, a confused tone emerging. “They have most likely heard you and I had felt this Turaga, no matter his fear, would come out to talk to you so long as it meant protection for his village. I pray the others are not planning something stupid.” He said, irritation emerging in his eyes. “I had been lead to believe that while the others were scared of you that we agreed on believing you until otherwise.” He said before turning slightly, enough to slam his fist loudly against the door a couple of times before turning around.

“That should gain their attention if you have somehow not already. Now, while I shall continue to protect my charges from injury, if it comes down to it, but, I shall not allow for attacks against you to proceed with attacks against without reason. For their sakes I hope they are not attempting anything, perhaps I was wrong on my belief of this Turaga.” He said, sighing in exasperation as he glared at the ground before looking back up. His warning glare once again emerged despite his increasing exhaustion.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:12, Fri 19 Jan 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 160):

Darren takes the Huna, going to return it. He pauses when he sees the Skakdi conversing with Velike, resuming his approach after a moment of consideration. “Velike, your Huna.” He says shortly, not wanting to interrupt the conversation too much.

In reply to Darren (msg # 169):

“Ah, Good. Thank you.” Velike replied, taking his mask and putting it back on, standing up straighter with a sigh of relief as his energy started to return.
“Now then, perhaps you can assure the Skakdi and me. Tell us, are the Turaga and others planning something against the Skakdi despite there currently be no reason for such?” Velike asked, a dangerous glint to his eyes.

"We dark-plan nothing," Metanu said as he came outside too. "But the spiny one must wait at the gate until our Turaga has seen to the wounded."

Krezok rolled his eyes and directed them - once again shining yellow - at the hut. "I'll wait right here, I think," he grunted. "Let us hope it is as you claim."

Metanu tensed visibly but did not speak.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:54, Fri 19 Jan 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 171):

“... good.” Velike muttered, staring hard at Metanu before turning back to Krezok, his stance strong and unwavering as his energy returned, his spear still held upright beside him.

Tameku stood beside the Turaga - in case the Skakdi used his vision power he hoped he'd look like just another Matoran tending to Aeko.

"I really hope our precautions turn out to be unecessary", he whispered, "And I hope Metanu finds the right words to get the Skakdi to do what we want. Is he a good diplomat? Maybe I should have suggested to him a thing or two to say. What do we do if it doesn't work? Mata Nui! With a Steltian or two at my back I'd feel a lot safer."

Minutes passed, and the Skakdi seemed increasingly impatient.

"No, he's not a good diplomat," Turaga Lhevan said as he finally rose from his resting place. "I better get out there." He walked silently out of the hut. The moment he brushed the leaf door aside, Krezok was on his case.

"I don't like waiting," he said, annoyed. "Especially not in this weather."

"I thought ever-strong Skakdi could handle a little rain," Metanu said dryly, narrowing his eyes. It fell on deaf ears, as the Turaga wisely ignored him.

Lhevan met the Skakdi's gaze fearlessly. "I have been told you saved my tribesman from Rahi," he said. "You have my thanks. However... I get the impression you are here to talk about something else."

"You're right about that, airhead," said the hunter. "Our warlord is tired of sand, and the war is eating up the rest of our resources. Luckily for you we don't care much for this damp jungle either, but we need some green. I'm here with orders to borrow that shiny rock of yours." He poked a clawed finger into Lhevan's shoulder, pushing him back a bit. Metanu clenched his fists, but Lhevan - like Velike - did not flinch at the Skakdi's attempt at intimidation. Instead, he shrugged indifferently.

"I see. Sadly, we don't have what you seek. Not anymore." A faint smile appeared on the Turaga's lips. Krezok noticed.

"Don't lie to me, Turaga," he growled. "Where is it?"

"Our brethren took it with them after you destroyed our village. We haven't seen them - or the relic - since then." Lhevan exhaled in a humored manner and shook his head. "A hundred years gone with no trace. Believe me, if letting you borrow its power for a few days would keep you complacent for another hundred years, I'd gladly help you out." Then his smile vanished, and he tapped the ground with his spear. "However, we don't have it. I can't help you. Now that I've told you what little I know, I believe we are done. You will receive payment for rescuing our brother, but then you must begone."

Krezok gnashed his teeth and hissed. He was starting to look quite angry. "You will help me find them, then," he snapped. "All of you."


What do you do?



They've mentioned a "shiny rock"/relic of some kind, but it's unclear what it is.

Krezok's turning unreasonable. You may have to go along with his demand, come up with an alternative, or chase him off.


This message was last edited by the GM at 20:56, Fri 19 Jan 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 174):

Darren looked at the skakdi. “What is it exactly that you need?”

In reply to Game Master (msg # 174):

“As stated I will... help you, as so far I have seen no reason to disbelieve anything you’ve said, but I have no right to force others to join. While I believe my charges to at the most part be willing to help, perhaps the travels taken will help us learn of what we came here to find, I cannot speak for those of this village. Some may be willing while others will not. I can not force them but I can help you. It is a matter of honour, something I’m sure a being such as your self should understand well.” Velike replied, not relaxing persay as the situation played out reasonably enough (for him), but making his posture less.... threatening.

“I do wish to know what this ‘shiny rock’ is though.” Velike said, a look of intriguement in his eyes.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:38, Fri 19 Jan 2018.

Lutorian stood in a crouched position ready to leap down at a moments notice, keeping an eye on the increasingly agitated skakdi.
“Mata-nui don’t make this ever-ugly” he said under his breath.

Still agitated, Krezok nevertheless decided to answer their question. "I've been told it looks like a lightstone, but green and covered in vines. It makes plants and trees grow in mere days, and keeps them from wilting." He clenched his fist. "Sounds useless at first, but our warlord has demanded it to be used on our desert territory. She says the potential of natural resources are too great to ignore, and that it will give us an edge over the blasted sand-runners."

The Skakdi snarled at Lhevan. "Of course you would hide it in the jungle, where it can't be distinguished from the surroundings. Clever, but not enough to stop us. I will scan the jungle until I find it, and if you're not lending it to us as repayment for our gracious behavior, then I'll just take it by force!"

He stomped his foot once, for effect. Mud went everywhere. "It's miles of land! Your villagers will help me comb the area, unless you want me to tell warlord Zahrynn that you refused to cooperate!"



Velike
He's quite stubborn. If you make a roll to persuade this guy, we'll judge if you can make him calm down or change his mind.

Tameku had walked over to the door after the Turaga left the hut and now stood listening to the conversation just outside - the door was just made from leaves, after all. While things appeared to mostly stay civil - which was a big relief - he severely hoped that his friends would find the right things to say, or things might get ugly still.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 178):

"Krezok, be calm, please. This does not need to end in violence. I am sure the Turaga and a number of this villages inhabitants would be willing to help you. I am one and I feel my charges would also be willing so that is 5 or so already." Velike said in an attempt to reason with the Skakdi, a warning yet hopeful look in his eyes. "I do not wish to fight you, to break my word."
He definitely didn't seem to want to fight the Skakdi right now, despite his still current willingness.


14:18, Today: Velike rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1.
(Oh... oh dear...)

"Have you ever heard of some stone that can grow trees?", Tameku asked Ferrin in a low voice, fairly certain that the people outside were too busy to try to listen to what was being said inside the hut, but nevertheless unwilling to take any chances.

"I was not contemplating violence," Krezok spat, although he was not a very good liar. "Besides, the warlord would be mad if I killed the only ones who knew where to find what she seeks. That tidbit keeps you safe, for now."

He growled and looked at Velike. "I need more than a handful of strangers to search the jungle! Make your friends convince this stubborn Turaga for me, and I might not drag him out there myself."


Despite being some distance away from the heated discussion, Ferrin leaned in closer and lowered his voice to match Tameku's. "No," he replied, "but deep in the vault of our fortress, there's an odd metal crystal that can shape other metal when you wave it around. I'm told we have another, similar one that can shape rock as well. The Turaga told me it was important and that I could not sell it for profit. After I asked that he refused to tell me anything else."

The Fe-Matoran trader shrugged. "In my eyes a sale's a sale, and it's not being put to any use anyway, but what do I know."



Velike
Ineffective in calming him down, I'm afraid. Still, your suggestion makes some sense and might still make a difference if you can manage to get a "hit" in before he stops listening.

01:11, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Krezok, rolled 4 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 4,4,3.  Trying to intimidate. (Skakdi, fearsome).

Apply to Velike's Social HP. If it runs out, he stops listening to you entirely for a while.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 182):

Velike stepped back for a moment, a wary look in his eyes as the Skakdi attempted to intimidate him, shaking his head before stepping forward, a clearer look in his eyes.
"I am glad to hear you did not plan any violence. Now then, I will help you in convincing the Turaga to help find villagers willing to follow. I will not force them,so as to avoid any negative occurrences brought on by resentment and to keep honor intact." Velike said in an atempt to reason, hoping he would not have to break his word.

Velike rolled 5 using 1d6 with rolls of 5.
(YES!)

The Skakdi was clearly tiring of the conversation. "I don't care one wit about what consequences you suffer," he growled, but there was a trace of uncertainty in it. He had obligations to his warlord, after all. "We Skakdi always come out on top, especially now that your Toa are all gone," he continued, and glanced at Lhevan. "A decrepit shell of what they used to be. Perhaps if any of you had any power at all I'd be impressed, but as it is you are of no threat to me."

Lhevan had stood silent for a few moments, but now he lifted his left hand in an exasperated gesture. "We are of no use, either," he said. "We don't know where to look anymore than you do, and our presence will only slow you down. You have no reason to bring any of us along on a pointless search."

Angry as he was, Krezok seemed torn between stomping off on his own in anger, or to drag every Matoran present out with him.



08:41, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Krezok, rolled 6 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 1,3,6.  Responding to Velike.

Having subtracted defense from the roll result, Velike loses 3 Social HP. 1 left for this debate. :v

I made a post over in OOC too.

Tameku knew Velike was probably trying his best, but it was pretty apparent that it didn't work - especially since he was trying to actually bargain with the Skakdi as if they were equals. Also Tameku had no intention of combing the jungle on behalf of some Skakdi for a small stone - they were sent here on a mission, after all.

He took off his bag and put it next to the door - in case he needed to run quickly - took a deep breath and headed out. He just hoped the Skakdi was still in the mood to listen.

"Ah, I know my knowledge on this matter might be humble at best, but if I may I'd like to voice a few thoughts." Tameku stopped beside Darren, wringing his hands, "While I for my part believe the Turaga, as I have no cause not to, let's try to think about this logically: This jungle is huge. If indeed someone hid this stone in it, then even if everyone in this village would start searching it could take millennia to find it - if it would be found at all. While I'm no expert about those stones, I'd assume only someone with strong elemental powers of Plantlife could possibly sense its power's presence in the nearby vegetation - a Toa, or maybe a Skakdi. Rather than wasting your time on that, however, I'd suggest you first think about places on this island that might have lush vegetation despite the local conditions. This jungle already was here a hundred years ago, wasn't it? So maybe you know of a place that has grown a sizeable amount of vegetation since then?"

Skills used: Persuasiveness, Knowledge of how to deal with different species
Tameku rolled 6 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 3,3,6.  Tameku used logic - it's super effective! ;)

In reply to Game Master (msg # 184):

“Power? You think we have no power?!” Velike yelled, reacting in a surprisingly more aggressive fashion than before. “My island never had Toa! We were isolated, unknown! Left to rot by your gods! But we didn’t. When the Rahi attacked what did we do? We fought them back, we built weapons, traps, a guarded fortress from the scraps of your culture that we gained!” Velike yelled in his irritation, pride tracing his tone as he slammed the butt of his spear into the ground.
“We trained ourselves, those few new who appeared! We were dependent on none! All could fight, thrive and survive where Toa now appear to be necessary! And for when needed, we made our own protectors. Us, the honour-guard. The frontline in any attack. Ready to lay our lives down to protect our people, to weaken the enemy so those less skilled may live, may prepare the weapons to join the fight! We may be primitive, heretics to all of our kind but we have power.” He growled, offense and pride merged in his voice.

“Now then, I shall try to reason with you once more. Stand down, I will help you gain as many villagers as possible, gain the Turaga’s help and favour in this task, one I’m sure he will be willing to give. I do not wish to offend you nor break my word but I cannot allow attacks on my charges, ones who will most assuredly attempt a fight if you continue on this way.” He said, calming down as he spoke in a tired, hopeful tone.
“Please, do not force me sully my honour or your own. I have realized that while the stories my island knew of the spike-walkers, warlords with a respect of strength so dangerous even the outside worlds chosen would have trouble, that they must not be fully wrong. I do not fear consequences on myself but on your behalf, on the honour you may lose. An honour I hope our tales were right on.” Velike said in a slightly saddened tone, realizing his people’s knowledge may have been even worse than he had long since realized.


Velike rolled 7 using 2d6 with rolls of 1,6.
(Effin ‘ell. Missed a step, sorry. So what does this count as/should I just re-roll?)
This message was last edited by the player at 15:40, Mon 22 Jan 2018.

"Honor!" The Skakdi seemed very amused. "Fighting for survival holds no honor. The weak die and the strong survive. If you are strong enough to do that, feel free to join a Skakdi camp, and see how long you last where honor doesn't matter and your warlord can end you with a glance from a hundred steps away! The respect we hold for a warlord is not from honor, it is from rightful fear."

Krezok lowered his voice to a low rumble again, and despite the insults he notably did not pursue the matter of fighting or force any further.

"We can't search for the stone with our senses," he said. "None of us can sense energy like that. All the Toa are gone too. Figures they'd run off the one time you need them..." The hunter seemed lost in thought for a moment, though it was impossible to tell what he could be contemplating. "My warlord won't be happy about this," he muttered. "Chopping our way through the jungle for days on end may be the wrong approach. I'm certain all of you would get hung up on the first branch anyway. I don't have enough time to waste for that."

The hunter's scowl became just a tad worse. "Worse, it would be impossible to spot the place from the air because of the trees covering everything. I suppose you are useless to me after all," he concluded.

The tall being shifted his grip on his weapon once more and turned away. Krezok began walking without any further goodbyes, and headed for the road leading west. "I'll be back to chat more about this," he said without turning around. "Possibly with some... associates."



Velike, Tameku
I'll count it as a 6, since the dice are showing that even if the sum was off. Your combined arguments led him to give up on the idea of searching the forest aimlessly... for now.

He still seems to be impressed by your personal strength, Velike, but he likely won't respect you as an equal unless he sees real proof of it. Sadly, that's just how Skakdi are.

This message was last edited by the GM at 15:09, Mon 22 Jan 2018.

Tameku let out a sigh of relief as he watched the Skakdi leave. "Hoping that I'll never again have to deal with Skakdi is probably a little too much to hope, isn't it? And Velike - at some point we really should discuss how one should talk to a Skakdi, otherwise you'll one day end up as a smear on the floor. The sad truth is that Skakdi aren't normal people but - well - Skakdi."

He turned to the Turaga. "Since this is now dealt with - could we maybe get back inside and discuss the other... things I mentioned? All of you mentioning how the wind stopped makes me increasingly uneasy..."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:30, Mon 22 Jan 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 187):

“I... Oh...” Velike muttered, seemingly stunned at the Krazoks words and the revelation it brought to his knowledge of how Skakdi truly were. “I... I see then. My people were off more than I ever believe.” He said, chuckling sadly, a bit of that age Lutorian had been joking of showing.
While not as much as joked of it was enough to show he had been around for a fair amount of time.
“I am glad you saw the reasoning I was attempting to explain. And I promise you this, I will gather all who are willing to help, with the Turagas help, and when your quest begins I shall be a part of it, helping to the fullest of my abilities.” He said, giving a soft grin as he bowed, his form still as on guard as it had been since their original meeting.

“Thank you, Tameku. I understand now that my hopes for my people beliefs were even more off than I first thought.” He said as he glance over, his saddened grin still playing across his face.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:35, Mon 22 Jan 2018.

Breathing a sigh of relief, Lutorian moved down back to the jungle floor and group up with the others.
"So are we in a dark-time or not?" Lutorian asked while glancing back at the Koro's gate.

If Krezok was moved by Velike's words, he did not give any indication of it. Skakdi were notoriously hard to read. Still, he seemed less angry, and that was something.

"I believe the problems have only just begun," Lhevan said gravely, observing the Skakdi as he left. "He's the most reasonable Skakdi I have met, and that's likely why they sent him in particular to speak with me." He turned back towards the hut and waved his hand. The villagers surrounding them nodded at the signal and returned to their dwellings.

"I shall have to send a few Matoran out to look for our long-lost brethren again. Regardless of whether the Skakdi get so far or not, we now have a need to know where they are. That's for later, though. For now we may continue our discussion, hopefully in peace," the Turaga said to Tameku, then smiled at Lutorian. "If dark-time truly is upon us, it is thankfully still bright enough to see."

"What did you wish to discuss?" he asked.

Back in the hut Tameku grabbed his bag again, then paused a moment to search for the right words. "Well, Turaga", he finally said, "Are you familiar with a wooden statuette of a Kewa bird placed in an alcove near the beach with the inscription 'To those who walk on the wind'?"

"Of course. We made it and put it there," Lhevan said, and sudden understanding washed over his face. "Why, did you touch it?" A playful gleam could be spotted in his yellow eyes.

"Oh, ah, well-" Tameku stuttered, but caught himself again, "You see, I thought it weird that this statuette didn't get wet from the rain, so I touched it to see if it was really there, only then somehing happened and whatever protected it suddenly proteted me, and this statuette was getting wet and I kinda panicked because the rain definitely wouldn't do it any good and so I took it down, only then suddenly there was an air current shooting upwards and then the wind stopped altogether, and", he took a breath, "I'm really sorry if I did something wrong." He finally pulled out the statuette and handed it to the Turaga.

The Turaga turned the statuette over in his hands and examined it carefully. Then he flipped it upside down and poked at the bottom near the rim. "Well, it's still intact, so no harm done. You spent over five years worth of my elemental energy today, but I was already considering doing that myself. We needed to still the storm so we could look for Aeko, and such needs are thankfully few and far between."

Lhevan placed the statuette on the table, traced a finger along the Kewa's beak while mumbling something to himself, and then pressed his palm flat against the chest of the bird figure. A green glow - barely visible - showed where he touched for just a second, while dust began whirling just above the surface of the wood. The Turaga of Air withdrew his hand and took a deep breath. "A faint breeze, for a mere moment. That is all I can manage to conjure nowadays," he said. "Therefore I've been storing it over time, for use in a pinch. It doesn't do anything if you touch it right now, but once the energy builds enough it becomes impossible to control for anyone who does not possess enough power naturally."

He tapped the carving with the back of his index finger. "That includes me, so I would likely have seen the same result you did."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:14, Tue 23 Jan 2018.

"Well, that's good news then, I guess", Tameku said, visibly relieved. He looked at the others of the group, then turned back to the Turaga: "I suppose then it's time for us to talk about what actually brought us here - we were sent to Rangi Motu because contact has broken off to this island. People up north are worried. I spoke to Ferrin and he said the docks are closed due to the bad weather, but is that truly all? I mean, bad weather for so long can't be natural, right? Also supposedly a group of Matoran archeologists came to Rangi Motu some time ago - have you heard anything about them?"

Lhevan thought for a moment, then replied. "It's certainly abnormal, but the weather itself is to be expected given the circumstances. You are right: There is more to it, and I did not wish to speak of it to strangers... especially not that Skakdi. In dealing with him you have proven yourself trustworthy and reliable, so I will tell you."

He pointed at the statuette. "That carving is not the only item of its kind. I knew how to make it only because I had seen similar items at work. I still needed help from my fellow Turaga, who are much more knowledgeable about history and research than I am."

"I did not meet them in person," he continued, "but Metanu met with the researchers you mention while he was carrying a message to Turaga Tiowaka, up in the mountains. Around the island there are several locations - created by the Great Beings in times long past - where elemental energy gathers in great quantity. They were on their way back from one of these sites. Metanu, do you still remember the details?"

"Researchers? Yes, many!" replied Metanu. "Six. Seven, maybe. Passed through mountains on their way from valley-temple, headed for tunnels underground. They were seeking knowledge from much-knowing Zuhras, Turaga of Earth, keeper of history. After that, I do not know. Must speak with him!" Turaga Lhevan was about to say something, but then Metanu chimed in again. "Just recalled: On jungle road, met another who came before you, asked the same! Thought he was researcher too, but maybe not. Storm hit, Aeko gone, forgot to tell. Sorry!"

In reply to Game Master (msg # 197):

Darren listens. “Do you have any idea what happened to the researchers?”

Metanu scratched the back of his head. "Lasting rain and whipping wind, that's no good on foot. They must have stayed in deep-dark tunnels, or gotten mud-stuck like Ferrin's cart did yesterday."

Tameku thought about this for a moment. "So you're telling us that the lasting bad weather around this island might be somehow linked to these... elemental power sites?"

Tameku had been so focused on the Turaga's words that only now did Metanu's words catch up to him. "Wait, wait, wait! Another who asked after the archeologists? Another who? A Matoran?"

"Matoran, yes," replied Metanu. "Quiet one, not from island. Light gray all over, wore noble-shape Ruru. Asked many questions, but gave no answers of his own. Said little to me, so I said little to him." The Le-Matoran shrugged. "He wished to catch up with them too, for whatever reason."

"A Matoran wearing a Ruru?" Lutorian asked while trying to think back "Did Turaga Koeti say anything about sending someone before us?" he asked while turning to the group.

In reply to Lutorian (msg # 202):

Darren shrugs. “I don’t believe so.” He pauses, thinking. “I guess bad weather could have been the cause of the archeologist’s disappearance, the weather almost did us in when we got here after all.”

"Well, the bad weather would at least have prevented the archeologists from communicating with someone outside of this island", Tameku said, "Since they were last seen heading to some place underground, I'd suggest we go there, too. When we find them we can make sure they actually are ok - they might also know more about those elemental places causing the bad weather, if that's true. Besides, it seeems like a good idea to me to speak to the other Turga about the weather, too. But we need a map to plan ahead properly..." He turned to Ferrin with a questioning look.

"Oh, yes," Ferrin said, once he became aware of what Tameku had asked him. The Fe-Matoran handed over the thin sheet of metal with his etching of a map on it. "I tried, but I got distracted by the Skakdi," he explained. "I also messed up a bit. It's not perfectly accurate, and a lot of places are missing, but it should do as long as you follow the road markers."

>> Click here for image.<<

Metanu looked over their shoulders. "Seems off, but mostly right. Zap-crash storm clouds keeps us from flying there. Elemental site for both lightning and air, at once. They say Great Beings walk the wind on that peak."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:01, Wed 24 Jan 2018.

"Thanks Ferrin this will be a great help for us." Tameku put down the map so that all could see it. He studied it for a moment. "Do all the tunnels mentioned on here lead to the earth village?", he finally asked, tapping his finger on the marking closest to the jungle village. "And which tunnel did the archeologists take, Metanu?"

"You can reach the village from any of the tunnels," Ferrin confirmed. "There are some other exits, but the ones I marked are near the main roads." He pointed the the one in the top-left corner of the map, next to the desert. "I'd avoid this one, if I were you. It surfaces pretty much in the middle of Skakdi territory nowadays. No clue which warlord controls the area, but they're all equally nasty in my opinion."

Next he moved his finger to the tunnel in the midst of the jungle, west of the village they were currently in. "This is the closest one. The main road leads straight west and past it, but the path you need to take is clearly marked at the crossroads."

Metanu butted in and pointed at a third tunnel, near the feet of the mountains. He had to stretch to reach past Ferrin, who shot him an annoyed look. "That's the deep-dark tunnel they were going for," said the Le-Matoran. "Other path goes north past outpost and mountains, then splits. West to icy glacier approach, east to valley-temple. My suggestion: Wind-fly best path, but bad weather is sad weather for both Matoran and birds."

He glanced outside. The rain was just a light drizzle at this point.

"Soon, however..." he said gleefully.

"So basically we could either head streight to the earth village through the next tunnel and hope the archeologists made it there, or we could make our way to the tunnel they planned to use and follow directly on their steps - in which case we could make sure nothing happened to them. The first option would likely cost us much less time, though, in case they reached the earth village and already departed again." Tameku scratched his chin. "What do you think, friends?" He looked at his companions.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 208):

"I... I do not know. Perhaps we could head both? Go through one and backtrack to the other? Also, Krezok will return here with more skakdi eventually, I have promised to help." Velike replied, a ponderous look upon him as he silently debated.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 208):

“I say we take the quicker path, and back track if we don’t find them there. It wouldn’t do us much good to take the harder way if they’re already there.”

"Agreed, we should take the quick-fast route, and then backtrack if we need to."
"You agreed to help Krezok but I don't think any of us will survive long with a Skakdi, much less more than one."

"Then the quick route we take", Tameku said, "I'd suggest we leave right away as long as there's no rain. You're heading in that direction, too, Ferrin, right? Mind if we accompany you a short way?" He then turned to the Turaga: "Anything else we should be aware of on our way to the earth village? Rahi? Is the way through the tunnels lighted? Is it marked? Wouldn't want to get lost in a pitch-black maze."

Ferrin nodded. "The weather is clearing up, so I will take the opportunity to return to the desert fortress. Turaga Ponolu needs to be informed of the Skakdi we encountered. We can travel together until we reach the crossroads near the tunnel."

"The storm is sure to have torn down a few trees and upset some Rahi" said Turaga Lhevan. "There are Burnak in the jungle, as well as Fikou and certain types of Jaga. Many odd Rahi, but as long as you don't provoke them they are seldom dangerous."

"Except Nui-Jaga!" Metanu said intently. "Vile cave-dweller. Many-legged monster, with pincers and blind-eye poison tail. Throws poison, charges blinded victim to hold it still, strikes with tail until dead. Woe to those who face Nui-Jaga in the dark! Red glowing eyes the last you ever see!"

"Don't worry about them, however," Lhevan quickly added. "The main tunnel is indeed marked and well lit, and goes straight to the village. The Jaga make their nests only in the deep, dark caverns. Avoid those, and you should be fine."

"They eat Burnak," continued Metanu. "Heard Ta-Matoran hunters tamed some of the toughest Burnak, but still lost one to Nui-Jaga. Is it a tiger? A bear? No one knows, but useful anyway! Nui-Jaga don't care about useful, only food."

"Hm, it sounds more dire than it is," Lhevan muttered. "I'm sure you could handle one if you had to. Nevertheless, be careful."

"As long as it's just Nui-Jaga and no Catapult Scorpions I think we will manage", Tameku said, although he didn't quite manage to banish the slightly worried tone from his voice. He was used to bigger and better protected caravans, after all.

"If there's nothing else you have on your mind I'd suggest we leave", he told his companions.

Everyone
You have stayed in the village for a while, and dealt with the Skakdi for now. You gain 1 XP, to be used immediately or at any future point when you have time to rest. You may also restore any missing HP.

In reply to Lutorian (msg # 211):

“I, Well, yes I suppose that’s how it was, but we did agree to help him gain trust in the village in return for bringing back the Le-matoran early and if we do not help him I fear an attack on the village will most likely occur... perhaps we could head there and then return here? I... I do not know. I am still surprised at how off our knowledge of his species was.” Velike said, a sad tone still noticeable.

In reply to Velike (msg # 216):

Darren thinks about it. "It could be problematic if he came back, but we didn't come here to just sit in a village. I say we go."

In reply to Darren (msg # 217):

"Well yes, I agree with that, but I'm saying we check back here after we finish this next excursion, so as to check on the state of things."

In reply to Velike (msg # 218)

“Yeah, that sounds good. So which direction do we go?”

In reply to Darren (msg # 219):

"I would say our best bet would be to head to the village so as to learn if the others passed through it, if not then we should backtrack through the secondary path to search for any clues as to what happened." Velike replied, relaxing slightly from the worried tenseness he'd had since the Skakdi left.

"Very well then," nodded Ferrin. "I'll fetch the Mahi, and ready the cart. Finish your business here and tell me when you're ready to go, or if you are taking another route." After a quick but respectful nod to the Turaga, the Fe-Matoran left the hut. His wet footsteps could be heard crossing the muddy ground.

Following the trader's departure, Turaga Lhevan bowed to the remaining group. "If you have your destination set and can manage on your own, I must take my leave as well," he said, and picked up the carved figurine from the table it was sitting on. "I shall return this bird to its nest, and let it grow strong once more."

"I'll wind-fly east while the weather is clear, and get a mask from the forges," said Metanu.


Everyone
Turaga Lhevan will return the bird statuette to the shrine it came from. Metanu will deal with Aeko's situation.

Ferrin is waiting to depart on the road leading west, to the tunnel network and further on to the desert. The Skakdi hunter Krezok has likely taken this route as well (but you are unlikely to catch up to him unless you really try).

The weather looks like it will be sunny before long. With the storm over and the Skakdi gone, the Le- and Bo-Matoran inhabiting the village are going back to their daily lives.

This message was last edited by the GM at 12:10, Mon 29 Jan 2018.

"Well, I suggest we don't lose any more time and set out as soon as Ferrin is ready", Tameku said. "The faster we get to the earth village and find the archeologists, the better."

He left the hut to join Ferrin and help him with the Mahi and the cart.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:08, Mon 29 Jan 2018.

“I’m not too keen on dark-wet tunnels, but if it will get us there ever-quick I guess that’s where we’ll go” shrugged lutorian while following Tameku out.

Darren nods in agreement and joins the others to help with the cart. “Looks like the weather is going to be nice too.”

In reply to Game Master (msg # 221):

Velike remained silent, his guarded aura returning as he followed, his spear held at ready and posture prepared for trouble.

With some help, the Fe-Matoran trader easily loosened the cart from the restraints that had kept it safe in the storm. He flung the bundle of rope into the back, and dragged the large sailcloth covering it back into place. "If you wish to ride in the cart, there should be enough space for a couple of you," Ferrin said. "Don't sit down too hard, though - you'll be on top of a pile of pointy metal."

Darren turned out to be right about the weather: The sun was finally peeking out from behind the clouds, and the heavy gray rainclouds had been replaced by lighter ones. A few minutes later, when the Mahi were put in front of the cart and all the goods had been loaded, even the light drizzle had stopped. The group set off then, traveling west on the jungle path. Dense foilage hid the sky beyond the clearing, but the temperature stayed warm and plenty of light managed to get through the canopy of trees.

Behind them the cry of a Kewa could be heard. Those who turned to look could see the bird rider Metanu taking off as well, headed in the opposite direction. He had promised to be back the next day, while Ferrin similarly estimated a day's worth of travel on their slower cart before they would reach the tunnel entrance. Even if both Matoran and Mahi could go for a long time without getting tired, the weight of the goods they were carrying would slow them down a bit.

"I forgot to mention that there is another split a bit earlier on this road," added Ferrin. "The main road curves a bit, and leans towards the southern shore for a few kio to avoid a rather large bog. The road straight through the bog is quicker, but it's bound to be even wetter than normal after the heavy rain, plus it's home to a number of Rahi. The local Bo-Matoran can handle it, but the rest of us are a bit hesitant unless we have company. I mention it now since you look like you can handle yourself." The Fe-Matoran looked north, futilely trying to peek through the forest. "You can't see it from here, but there is a third path that splits off even earlier. It goes across the hills closer the mountainside. It's a bit higher up and therefore is both dry and not as densely forested. The downside is that the Rahi migrate to high ground when a storm hits, so I wouldn't be surprised if we ran into a pack." He shrugged. "I'll leave the decision up to you. I'm in no rush myself."




Everyone
We are off to a new location!

To give an estimate of size/travel time on this island: With average walking speed, it will take roughly 8 hours to reach the crossroads via the main road. The tunnel leading underground is just a short distance beyond that. It would take another 12 hours for Ferrin to reach the desert from the crossroads.

In general I will time-skip past travel unless something interesting happens on the way, so you won't have to spend countless hours RPing on an empty road. I may give you choices based on which routes are safest/fastest/has the most stuff to look at, however.

• If you take the main road, there are no dangers worth noting. You have the option of traveling more quickly if you want, saving 1 or 2 hours. If you choose to do this, each of you will take 1d6 Physical damage from exertion per hour you save.
• If you travel straight through the bog, you save up to 3 hours. You will need to struggle through the swamp water with no clear path in sight, and you may have to deal with complications arising from this.
• If you take the high road you save 1 hour without much effort, and get a better view of the landscape. You are highly likely to run into multiple Rahi, however.

In short: Base travel time is 8 hours. Save up to 2 hours through physical exertion on the safe main road, up to 3 hours by going through the swamp, or 1 hour by taking the high road and dealing with multiple Rahi

The cart has room for two people, who will not have to roll for exertion, and who will be safe from the swamp waters as long as they are sitting on it.


What do you do?

"I'm not very keen on provoking Rahi attacks if not necessary", Tameku said, "Even if that would give us a nice overview of the area. And every merchant knows that bogs and swamps are bad places for heavy carts. I'd suggest we simply follow the main road in our current pace. We're not that much in a hurry, after all, and it would be stupid to exaust ourselves pointlessly." He looked at his companions. "As to riding on the cart - we should take 2 hour turns, I think, but one of you two", he pointed at Darren and Velike, "should always be on the road, in case there's trouble."

In reply to Tameku (msg # 227):

“I will agree with whichever path is taken, while I prefer yours for its safety I must say I can see the mild-advantage in taking the higher path, to better let us know our surroundings. As for the cart, I will stay on the road.” Velike stated, leaving no room for argument. “My duty is to keep my charges safe, not to relax.”

“I was looking forward to seeing some ever-ugly Rahi. In any case I agree with Tameku, the swamp will terrible-bad for the cart. The middle path would make a quick-journey.”

"Don't be ridiculous, Velike. If you're tired that will lessen your effiency in a fight and thus threaten the safety of those you want to protect. Tired guards usually quickly end up as dead guards." Tamkeu climbed on the wagon as he said this. "So, uh, I guess that's two votes for the main road and one abstention - Darren, any arguments for taking a different road?"

In reply to Tameku (msg # 230):

Darren shrugs. “I’d think the high road would be the best choice, but I won’t object to the main road. Anyways, I’ll take the first turn on foot.”

After a brief discussion, the group ended up taking the main road in order to keep the cart - and themselves - safe. Who knew what the storm may have done to the other roads, or what Rahi may have gathered in the hills to avoid a flood? As it turned out, even the well-traveled and secure road had been hit by the harsh weather. Large leaves from shaken jungle trees lay scattered everywhere, but at least this uneven covering made the muddy road easier to walk upon.

They walked for a few hours with no event. The travelers could tell the sky was completely clear now, and the temperature stayed at a comfortable level. The humid area was lush and peaceful, despite the violent storm that had shaken it earlier in the day.

Although the road was still muddy and bumpy, the Mahi pulling the cart had been calm and gentle for the journey so far, thanks in part to Ferrin's experienced handling of the Rahi. Suddenly they came to a halt, however, and seemed reluctant to continue past something up ahead. The two Ta-Matoran guardsmen accompanying the cart on foot easily spotted the problem: The wind had knocked over a few trees and scattered jungle fruit everywhere, and two agitated Gafna where squabbling over the spoils in the middle of the road. One of the large rat-like Rahi was colored blue, while the other had a deep red hue.

The Matoran watched as the blue one flung a jet of water at the other from its tail, but the intended target leapt aside. The water splashed against a melon-sized fruit instead and made it skip several meters away before breaking on impact with the ground. Both Rahi immediately ran at the unveiled treat, but found themselves fighting each other for the food once more.

Ferrin sighed. His black Hau kept his expression from showing, but it was clear he was annoyed. "The Mahi don't like critters like this," he said. "Could you clear the road, please?"


What do you do?


09:43, Today: Game Master rolled 1 using 1d6.  Traveling on main road: Checking for encounter.
09:44, Today: Game Master rolled 3 using 1d6.  Decide encounter.
(Result: Critters.)

Darren, Velike
Being on foot and guarding the cart, you spot encounters first. You see two Gafna, one Water and one Fire. Beyond them, a tree is lying across the road, partially covering it.

As the ones walking you may also choose to trade 1d6 Physical damage for faster traveling speed. May not be relevant right now (your call), but if you are in a hurry in the future you always have the option. :)

Everyone
I'll just mention that regardless of which path you take, you may also revisit locations later if you wish to explore.

This message was last edited by the GM at 09:24, Thu 01 Feb 2018.

"Uh, I guess you should deal with these Rahi", Tameku told Velike and Darren while spying over the edge of the wagon, "A Water Gafna is one thing, but in contrast to you two I'm not fire-proof." Still, Tameku climbed down from the wagon. He wanted to take a look at those fruits once the Rahi were dealt with. Securing some provisions couldn't hurt. And these were free, too, as the merchant in him remarked.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 232):

“Yeah, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem.” Darren replies, grabbing the mace from his back. “Which of the two do you want to take Velike?”

In reply to Darren (msg # 234):

“I will take the Water one. It will be safer for you to fight the one that matches your element and I have some experience fighting seaborn Rahi.” Velike replied, readying his spear.

In reply to Velike (msg # 235):

“Ok.” Darren adjusts the grip on his mace, before swiftly moving towards the Fire Gafna and attacking

Darren rolled 5 using 4d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 2,5,5,5.  Moving towards and attacking Gafna. Dice from Guard, Mace Training, Armor movement.

In reply to Darren (msg # 236):

Velike followed, thrusting his spear towards the Water Gafna.

Velike rolled 6 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 4,2,6.

“You guys couldn’t solve this problem without attacking them?” Lutorian sighed, still staying in the back of the cart but standing, ready to move if needed.”

The red rat didn't see Darren's mace coming, and so it made a solid impact. The Gafna peeped and then hissed, flicking itself and its glowing tail around in one swift motion. A large, burning ember flew through the air and struck Darren's armor. Despite heavy padding and innate resistance to fire, the flame still managed to singe him a little.

The second Gafna, spotting Velike's approach, fired another jet of water at him from range. The spray splashed against armor and felt like getting punched, but it was not as bad as it could have been. The Ta-Matoran continued his attack and struck with his spear, hurting the rat and making it back off. It jabbed with its tail once more, but no more water came out.

A moment later it turned tail and ran, clearly out of energy and frightened by the damage it had taken. The other followed suit. The two Rahi critters vanished into the underbrush in seconds, leaving the Matoran alone on the road once more. The fight was over almost before it began.


Having the opportunity to get a closer look, Tameku could see that the fruits that had fallen from the trees were orange, had a pyriform shape, and were about as big as a Kolhii ball. The skin was smooth and shiny, but the overall surface had a cratery texture. From the one that had been cracked open, he could tell that the skin was as thick as a finger, while the inside consisted of yellow bladders packed closely together. Many of them had burst, leaving syrupy juice to leak out onto the ground.

The Bo-Matoran could tell it was a type that would have a numbing effect on any organic material it touched. Used raw it could serve as a treatment for minor wounds by reducing pain and helping them heal more quickly. He seemed to recall there were other use areas as well, to those experienced in the field.



08:12, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Fire Gafna, rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 3,6.  Ember.
Result: 4 damage, -1 for defense, -1 for not being strong enough to get past heavy armor, and -1 for fire resistance.
Darren: Lose 1 Combat HP.

08:17, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Water Gafna, rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 2,6.  Water jet.
Result: 4 damage, -1 for defense.
Velike: Lose 3 Combat HP.

Tameku
You see at least 4 intact fruits of them lying around on the ground, with a few more growing on other trees in the area. Many others are broken open and eaten dry. Seems like Rahi like them a lot.

You know their basic effect by virtue of being a Bo-Matoran. If you wish to know more details, please make a roll.

Tameku shrugged at Lutorians words and whispered back to the Le-Matoran: "They're guards - if they'd use their heads to solve problems rather than their weapons they'd have become scholars. Perhaps next time I should specify 'could you deal with those Rahi' a little better."

He went over to the burst open fruit and examined it (learning what already has been said), then went over to an undamaged one and used his metal cutting scissors to carefully slice it open. Figuring that carrying an analgetic with him might be useful, he went to to the edge of the jungle, plucked some big leaves off of plants, then went back to the fruit he had cut open.

"Uh, while I get us some medical provisions, could you maybe see if you can move that tree from the road?" he called over to the others.

He carefully pried loose the bladders from inside the fruit, trying to keep them intact, then wrapped them in the leaves he had plucked to keep them safe within his bag.

I hope that was all ok? - I mean, there isn't any big chance of failure for any of this, right? Thus just gonna roll for one thing:

Tameku rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3.  Number of successfully harvested juice bladders.

No problems here. :) Nice thinking with the leaves. Keeping it all in the fruit might have been better for transport, but I can see the value in having it ready on demand. You get your 3 bladders worth.

There are couple more fruit of the same kind visible in the treetops if you want them, but someone would have to climb up and get them.

The other three intact fruits that were lying on the ground Tameku put on the cart. "In case we encounter any more Rahi we might be able to distract them with these", he explained. "If that's not necessary you can still throw them away or sell them or use them for medical purposes or as Rahi food back home, Ferrin."

In reply to Game Master (msg # 239):

Darren ignores the pain from the burn for now, knowing that a slight opening in his attack could end badly for him. He repays the ember by swinging with his mace again, bringing it down on top of the Rahi.

Darren rolled 6 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 6,2,1.  Attacking the Gafna again.

Darren: I had the Gafna scurry away since they are easily frightened little pushovers, but that blow would definitely knock it out. I'll let you decide if you want to let it run or if you wish to have a knocked-out Fire Gafna at your feet. :)

In reply to Lutorian (msg # 238):

“If I wanted it dead it would be dead. Attacking it has given it the warning to avoid us, a safer choice for it in the long run. It will also most likely avoid matoran from now on, keeping both it and others safer.” Velike explained, walking over to the tree and examining it, trying to see how exactly it fell.

Velike rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 1,6. Using survival skills to check tree for rot/how it broke
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 14:40, Fri 02 Feb 2018.

Velike: You confirm that this was definitely an older tree. Damage from rot mixed with strong wind must have caused it to fall, and it should be easy enough to roll it aside and clear the path completely.

Lots of small Rahi footprints all around it. There may have been Brakas or similar creatures living in it before it fell.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 246):

“Ah, good. This rot should help with the weight.” Velike muttered to himself, giving a quick glance over it in an attempt to avoid the more rotted areas as he began to push the tree.
Velike rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1. Just a quick glance for him to try and avoid pushing against a more highly rotted area, so I won’t count his survival skills
Velike rolled 7 using 2d6 with rolls of 5,2. Forgot to set it as 1 dice, I’ll count it as a 2. Pushing the tree itself.

That's a no then. You'll need someone to help you push, or lose 1d6 Physical if you struggle alone.
Never mind, if we go by order of rolls occurring, the 5 came first.

The rotten stem cracks further when you push on it, causing you to slip and splash yourself with mud. The tree rolls a few meters, however, and now lies in the grass. The road is cleared.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:53, Fri 02 Feb 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 248):

“... Well this is lovely.” Velike muttered, shoving himself back up as he stared at the tree. “At least I moved the tree.” He said, standing upright.
He quickly looked across his armour, scowling slightly before he gave himself a quick shake/brush off as he stepped out of the mud, readying his spear once again.

(Oh... that’s how the rolls work! Thought the 2 was first... lucky eh?)
This message was last edited by the player at 16:07, Fri 02 Feb 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 244):

(Oops... heh...)

Darren walks back to the group after making sure the rahi have indeed scurried away, and picks up one of the scattered fruits. “Do you think these are any good?”

In reply to Darren (msg # 250):

“Perhaps. Hopefully they’re edible at least, extra provisions are always necessary.” Velike muttered, walking over, mud still splashed across his armour, slightly lessened due to his quick clean/shake off earlier.

“Nows a good time to swap seats” lutoriad said climbing down from the cart. “How near-close are we Ferrin?”
This message was last edited by the player at 20:06, Fri 02 Feb 2018.

"Well, the Rahi eat them", Tameku told the others, patting one of the fruits, "So I suppose absorbing their energy can't hurt. But make sure to avoid the juice with your organic parts - it has a numbing effect on them."

In reply to Tameku (msg # 253):

"Ah... well, that's good to know." Velike replied, giving Lutorian a quick look as he said, "Either of you may take my seat. If need be I still have that Kaka extract to ward off my exhaustion." Waving him off as he walked forward.

"Somewhere around halfway, I'd guess," Ferrin said. "We've been curving back north, so we must be past the bog already. The crossroads is near where the jungle starts thinning."

Tameku shook his head as Velike took the lead again, but didn't bother to argue. Instead he climbed back into the wagon himself.
"Well, we should continue then", he told Ferrin.

"Yes, I agree," said Ferrin, while helping the others put the remaining fruit in the cart. "You won't have to worry about it where you're going, but it will be night before I reach the fortress. Hopefully I won't run into any trouble on the way. Seems like there was just the one Skakdi, but you never know."

The traveling trader yipped, and the Mahi began walking again. Along the road the signs of the storm were fairly visible, and a large number of Rahi tracks littered the area. Apart from the odd Burnak and lightning bugs basking peacefully in the sunshine, however, there were few signs of wildlife. The forest around them was thinning, allowing a better view of the sky. The muddy road had finally dried up after many ours of direct sunshine, which made travel easier.



Ferrin passed the time by telling tales of the past, and was in the middle of a particularly tall one when he suddenly went silent and raised his hand to hush the others. The Fe-Matoran listened intently for long seconds before he shook his head and sighed. "Sorry, I thought I heard something," he said, the story already forgotten. "We're almost at the crossroads, and I was worried either of us might run into something after we part ways. From the fortress we often hear the cracks of their weapons firing in the distance whenever they fight among themselves... I guess this was just a branch snapping or something." He narrowed his eyes. "Repeatedly."

The trader still seemed tense, but as no more sounds could be heard he rode in silence for a few more minutes, until the group of Matoran came upon a slight incline. When they reached the point where it sloped downwards again, they saw the crossroads up ahead. It laid in open landscape, circled by sparse grass and rocks. A marker made from stacked stones and wood held a flag and a carved stone tablet serving as a sign. The jungle was mostly behind them, though some of it stretched along the northern path, covering some of it past the crossroads from view.

Ten minutes later, they reached the crossroads. The sign was easily readable:
WEST - OUTPOST, IRON FORTRESS
NORTH - TUNNELS, VILLAGE, MINE
EAST - JUNGLE ROAD

"Here were are," Ferrin said, before shielding his eyes from the sun while looking ahead. While it would still be several hours until sunset, it was clear that midday was long past. "Here is where we must go our separate ways. Follow this road north, and it's a straight hike to the tunnel. It'll be less an hour on foot to reach it, and another hour tops to get to the village."

He bumped fists with each Matoran in turn.

"Good luck. Hope you find the people you were looking for. Oh, and don't forget your stuff!"


Everyone
Ferrin has told you a few stories on the way, but one stuck out as particularly interesting. Each of you, pick one story you'd like to learn something from. It will somewhat relate to the interests of your own character.

• Great Being sighting.
• A killer of Skakdi warlords.
• The spirit in the deep roads.
• The forgotten Matoran.
• The silent vault.
• Power in the shrines.
• Recent island events.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 257):
This message was last edited by the player at 01:18, Sun 04 Feb 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 257):

In reply to Game Master (msg # 257):


"So now to the village?" Darren asks the others.

Lutorian thanked Ferrin before responding to Darren "I think-remember that's what we agreed on." he said while bending down to read the sign.

You would all have been present while the stories were toold, so although I have put them in spoiler tags you are free to read them all if you wish.

Turned out to be more text than intended, so if you don't care about prose the summary should be enough.



Velike

The forgotten Matoran

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
The lost Bo-Matoran you already know about, but the Turaga keep it a bit hush-hush that they weren't the only ones. That village is notable for being the largest group to disappear at once, but occassionally a Fe-Matoran will decide that they've had enough of Skakdi, and leave the fortress for an unknown destination. The few we've managed to speak to said they just felt a calling in their head, and then they headed for the jungle without fail. Some were quiet about it, but others spoke of hearing a voice.

One Po-Matoran left from the bottom of the quarry mine somehow; vanished without a trace! I saw him again months later, trading carvings for fish on the other end of the island. He refused to speak of where he was staying, but he looked worn down and tired, and when he left I saw him head for the jungle too. He said the shadow would protect him. Poor guy had stayed too long underground, I guess. Miners start getting used to the darkness after a while.

I've heard others leave too, such as scholars from the mountaintop when they need to process what they've learned. Some sit in quiet meditation in the village, but at least one hermit has isolated themselves completely at the very tip of the southern cape. No weird shadow-talk from him, at least, and the scholars always return when they are done contemplating things.

---

Summary: Matoran are disappearing, and apparently leaving to go find sanctuary in the hidden jungle village. Others isolate themselves to think for a while, but always return. Those who leave under mysterious circumstances grow tired and reclusive.


Tameku

Recent island events

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
The weather's been real bad lately, but you already knew that. Terrible storms appear and last for days at a time. Sometimes the ground shakes and waves reach far inland. The elemental sites have it especially bad, but never seem to take damage from the bad weather.

You already know of the tension between Skakdi and Matoran too, but for the past hundred years it wasn't too bad. Skakdi are a rowdy bunch, but as long as you offer them a good trade between power and territory they are usually quite agreeable. In fact, after the Toa chased them there they seem to revel in the harsh desert climate, and only care about traveling when they run low on resources or have to move because a rival clan attacked.

Recently they divided themselves into a few camps based on common interest. One is loaded with weapons, which they practice with constantly. Another has tamed Rahi for war. A third thankfully seems to have calmed down lately thanks to their new warlord being more amicable than the last. There are some other camps, but they vary in size and used to never agree on anything. The fact that they've started making deals instead of fighting makes Turaga Ponolu worry that they are planning to work together on another island takeover.

Several Matoran have disappeared. We thought some lost to the bad weather, but the lost Bo-Matoran claimed a few had come to stay with them. They refused to say anything else, and vanished into the woods before we could ask.

The Ta-Matoran have postponed the annual martial tournament until the situation improves.

---

Summary: The weather effects are worse than they first appear, as they are joined by earthquakes and floods. The Skakdi have started working together after years of infighting. Some Matoran have disappeared during all this.


Darren

Killer of Skakdi Warlords

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
Two Skakdi warlords were slain recently - the first to die in centuries. Number one was easy enough to explain. After an internal dispute of some kind his underling opened fire with a Cordak blaster and knocked him out. Skakdi warlords like to keep their rivals alive and subjugated to show their might, so apparently the actual death was a complete accident. Nehktok the Gunner - that's his name now - had just finished proclaiming his victory to the entire desert when he decided to fire a second volley to humiliate the former warlord. No way he could take that when his armor was already weakened, but Nehktok didn't think that far. Killed him on the spot, and certainly didn't learn anything from it.

Now the second death... that one's more interesting. Two of our messengers returned from a trade with the Skakdi fortress opposite ours, and said there was a new warlord in charge. Strange thing is, no one took credit for it! Skakdi always do if they spot a chance to rise in the ranks. The previous warlord had supposedly been killed in the middle of camp during the night, stabbed just once by an unseen attacker who vanished before anyone got a good look at them - which is odd, considering how many Skakdi have enhanced vision. The stab wound was almost imperceptible too; they had to search a bit for the cause of death. Goes to show that even someone as tough as a warlord can be defeated if you catch them in a vulnerable moment, with the right weapon at hand.

It's been a long time since we've seen Skakdi scared, but our Matoran told us they were clearly uneasy about this event. At least the new warlord is more amicable than the last. Hasn't even broken the legs of the previous warlord's supporters, as is traditional in their camp. I heard they picked her by vote! Skakdi voting, imagine that!

---

Summary: Two Skakdi warlords died recently. One was killed in an internal dispute. The other was slain by an unseen assailaint, which has left the other Skakdi unnerved.


Lutorian

The spirit in the deep roads

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
When you go through the tunnels, stick to the path that is lit with lightstones. They and the road markers will show you where to go. It should be a fairly straight hike to the mining village. If you hear any chittering noises approaching, don't be afraid - crab riding guards patrol the main road and keeps it safe. Nui-Jaga make the same noise, but they dwell in the deeper, unlit caverns.

Still, there is one... being you may encounter. The locals call it a spirit, but no one knows what it is for sure. Travelers - especially foreigners like yourself - will often be approached by it when they pass through the area, though seldom on the main road. I've only heard the voice once myself, but it was like a whisper in the back of my head. It asked me who I was and why I had come. When I told it I was a trader, it said something about not wishing to trade, and then vanished. I have no idea what that was about.

Others have heard it as well, and seldom more than once each. Rumor has it, it almost never does anything except ask who you are. It took particular interest in Turaga Zuhras, and asked him at length about the island's history. It seemed to already know all his answers, though, so maybe it was just looking for a chat.

There was a traveler who got lost in a deep section of the tunnels. The voice came to him, and told him which direction to take. He didn't trust it at first, and flung his spear in the direction he thought the sound was coming from. It became angry then, and he fled from it in a blind panic. When he reached the village he claimed that the voice had ask him to take a path leading towards it, and that after he attacked he had seen a figure standing there in the darkness. That may have been his imagination, though. Being alone in the dark for too long does strange things to your mind.

If you do happen to hear from it - just be calm. It has never harmed anyone, to my knowledge.

---

Summary: The main road is lit and is free of Rahi. A spirit of some kind lurks in the tunnels and often approaches travelers.



The road is clear and Ferrin is leaving.

This message was last edited by the GM at 12:57, Mon 05 Feb 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 262):

Velike prepared to begin walking again, having remained in his prepared stance, pondering over the tales he had learned.

"Well, for a Fe-Matoran Ferrin sure had a lot to say", Tameku remarked as they watched Ferrin depart, "The ones I've known so far usually were so focused on their forges that it was hard to get a few words out of them at all."

He had taken one of the jungle fruits they had loaded on Ferrin's cart with him, but had left the others with the Fe-Matoran in case he was further bothered by Rahi. In case they met a Nui-Jaga Tameku hoped that the scorpion creature would rather go for this one fruit than for the Matoran if given a choice.
He adjusted his bag and turned to teh others: "Well, if you're ready then let's go."

Quick question: How big are those fruits? You said Kohlii ball size, but are we talking about MNOG Kohlii balls or Mask of Light Kohlii balls?

In reply to Tameku (msg # 264):

“Of course.” Velike replied, turning to the north road, his stance prepared for movement.

I was thinking of the latter. Something like a mid-sized papaya: Bigger than your hand, but these ones are possible to lift with one hand thanks to the cratered texture.

16:23, Today: Game Master rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4.  Checking for encounter on safe road.
Result: No encounter.

You will have a quiet journey through the last stretch, it seems. Feel free to time-skip to... THE CAVE! :o

Tameku set off towards THE CAVE :o.

Fair enough, I guess I should give you more to work with. :P

The road was clear and marked well like Ferrin had promised it would be, so the hike to the tunnel passed quickly for the party. The sun was beginning to dim by the time they reached it. Between thinning forest and a sun-bleached rock wall, the entrance to the tunnel appeared as a black spot in the distance long before they reached it.

Approaching the mouth of the cave, it was easy to spot multiple sets of tracks in the dry mud leading in the same direction. The majority were obviously Matoran footprints, but the tracks that stood out the most looked like they belonged to a larger being.

A sign next to the entrance read:
ISLAND CONNECTION, SOUTH ENTRANCE

The tunnel turned out to be large enough for most beings to pass through comfortably side by side without having to sidle or bow to avoid hitting their head on the rocky ceiling. The main road went straight from sparse jungle and dirt path to rugged rock walls and a smooth stone floor. A lightstone shone brightly on each side of the entrance, with more placed at regular intervals throughout the tunnel. They were put into small alcoves bored into the stone at shoulder height. One of them - the first on the right-hand side - was missing from its slot, making that area rather dim. A small discarded object of some kind was left behind on the floor next to the empty slot.

The edges of the entrance were lined with neatly piled scaffolding made of wood and metal. The tunnel could be seen going inwards for about fifty meters before sloping gently downwards into the depths. No living beings could be spotted, but a set of scratch marks in the rock indicated a tally of sorts was being kept by those who passed. It easily counted in the hundreds.

What do you do?


A fair amount of time has passed with no struggle. Heal 2 HP.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 268):

Velike headed over to the missing lightstone, attempting to see if he could discover any unusualness to its ‘vanishing’.

Velike rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1. Checking over missing lightstone
(Ouch... also, did we get EXP for the Gafna fight?)
This message was last edited by the player at 15:15, Tue 06 Feb 2018.

As Velike was examining the empty alcove, Tameku went to pick up the small object lying on the floor next to it.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:58, Tue 06 Feb 2018.

For the Gafna fight in particular, no. For the journey undertaken at large, I was going to handle it once we come to a spot of rest in traveling. I suppose the cave mouth works just as well.

Add 1 XP for recent events.


There were no obvious marks indicating what had happened to the missing lightstone, beyond the likely event that someone - or something - had taken it for themselves to see better in the dark.

The reason for the tally marks next to the spot, however, was written out in full:

TUNNEL RAHI OBSERVED
|||| |||| |||| |||| |||| ||||
|||| |||| |||| |||| |||| ||||
|||| |||| |||| |||| |||| ||||
|||| |||| |||| |||| |||| ||||
|||| |||| |||| ||

TREMORS
|||| |||

Meanwhile, Tameku discovered that the item on the ground was a short metal capsule, which upon closer inspection turned out to be an empty Cordak shell. The inside of the shell was covered in soot and the metal on one end flared outwards - the result of the explosion the weapon produced upon impact.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:28, Tue 06 Feb 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 271):

"Hmm... this could be problematic..." Velike muttered to himself as he saw the amount of rahi based tally marks.

(Ah, that makes sense. Also, by using EXP for extra skills does that decrease our total EXP/Level?)
This message was last edited by the player at 19:23, Tue 06 Feb 2018.

Nah, that's why I added both a "current XP" and "total XP" count to your sheet. :) The total determines level; it will never decrease.

Tameku examined the Cordak patron for another short moment, then glanced around trying to make out if there was any indication as to what was hit by it.
He had a feeling that he knew exactly what kind of being had used it - he glanced at the larger footprints. He wondered for a moment if the earth village, too, was supposed to possess an elemental stone.

Skills used: Observation
Tameku rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 6,4.  Searching for Cordak target.

Tameku rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4.  Trying to tell who left the large footprints.

The footprints left in the mud stopped at the cave entrance, but dried dirt and sand indicated that the being who made them had gone further inside. Studying the tracks carefully, Tameku surmised that they were very similar to what one could expect from a Steltian. The lack of claw marks ruled out Skakdi - at least for this set. Who else might have left passing marks after the road dried up was anyone's guess.

A bit further ahead, partly concealed by the dimmer areas where the lightstones didn't reach in full, sat another spent Cordak shell. Glancing over the edge of the slope leading downwards, Tameku spotted several more that had rolled downwards and gotten stuck against the mangled remains of a cave scorpion in the middle of the path.

The dead creature was not quite as big as the ones known as Nui-Jaga, but compared to a Matoran its tail would still reach a head taller than them. Its armor - what remained of it - was mottled bright blue and grey and covered in scorch marks where the blasts had struck it. Its pincers and each of its six limbs showed signs of being bioluminescent, but their glow had faded along with its life force.

Soot-black cracks in the sloped ceiling and pebbles on the ground indicated that at least two shots had missed their target.

Stepping into the tunnel Lutorian bent down to study the tracks.

Lutorian rolled 6 using 4d6, keeping the highest dice only ((3,5,5,6))

The tracks quickly ran out once they reached the hard stone, but Lutorian could confirm that they were indeed made by a Steltian. Glancing over to the path they had come from, he was able to follow them for a bit. Whoever made the footprints had not stayed on the road all the way. Instead, the prints turned ninety degrees off into the forest nearby. Broken ferns showed clearly that the large being had at least taken a detour before they entered the cave. Next to them were signs of a smaller being tagging along. They looked like Matoran feet, but the being's tracks in the mud blended in with the others and were hard to read.

Just a few meters off the side of the road, beyond the ferns, an area of flattened grass and a burned-out fire indicated that someone had made camp here recently.

Darren poked the corpse of the cave scorpion with his foot. “I guess this is one problem we don’t have to deal with.”

"Still I find it... worrisome that beasts like this apparently roam around on this 'safe road'", Tameku remarked.

He glanced around. "Where has Lutorian gone?"

In reply to Tameku (msg # 279):

“Most likely the tunnel.” Velike muttered absentmindedly, still examining the carvings.
As his words finally registered to himself he stilled, suddenly rushing into the tunnel, his spear held ready once again.

Past the dead scorpion, Velike found that the tunnel went on and on, going downwards in a gentle slope which soon started curving towards the right. The angle made it impossible to tell what was at the end of it. As he moved away from the entrance, the Ta-Matoran found the tunnel getting darker and darker, but at least there were lightstones showing the way.

At the end of the curve, the slope evened out into flat ground again. Right at the bottom another empty Cordak shell laid on the ground, and it looked like it was the final one. A thin layer of gray sand covered most of the floor. There was no sign of Lutorian in the tunnel after all.

Quite some distance ahead the lights seemed to end, but for what reason he could not tell.

Do you press on alone?



Lutorian is inspecting the tracks right outside the cave entrance. There are signs of a camp having been made here.

Velike has moved further into the tunnel, which curves gently to such an extent that he is no longer visible from the top of the slope.

This message was last edited by the GM at 18:52, Wed 07 Feb 2018.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 279):

Darren looked up from the Cave Scorpion corpse. “Hey, where did everyone else go?” He asked the only other matoran still present, Tameku.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 281):

(... Welp! Looks like it's time for Velike to do something very stupid but very Velike like!)

"No... I... I have let one of my charges become placed in potential danger, I have allowed my attention to waver. I must remedy this! I must protect my charge!" Velike though, preparing to head further before pausing as he remembered his companions.
"My other charges! I cannot abandon them but I cannot head towards them, that may take more time than I have! What do I do? What do I do?!" Velike thought in a panic, his guarded demeanor cracking for just a moment long enough to allow for a panicked look to flicker across his face.

"No! I will remain calm! I am an honor guard, we laugh in the face of defeat and always hold our spears high... I know what to do!" He thought as he calmed down, a spark igniting in his eyes before suddenly yelled, "Lutorian! Can you hear me?! Are you safe?!" As he cupped a hand around his mouth, waiting grimly for a reply, his spears hold tightened as the echo's began to bound.

(Should I roll for the yell? Also, told you he was going to do something dumb... if very much what he would actually do...)

The echoing voice was met with silence - which was perhaps not so surprising, given that the one the shout was meant for was still on the surface.

Soon after the sound of Velike's shout had faded, he could feel a faint trembling below his feet. A bit of sand trickled from the ceiling. The tremor rose in intensity for a few seconds before abating again. Another mark for the wall...

What do you do?


Velike
You don't have to roll for this yell - given the distance it's not an action with potential failure. Lutorian - and anyone else nearby - can definitely hear you.

The rest of you
You would have seen Velike run ahead, and heard his shout.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 284):

“Something was waiting for us...” Velike thought, stepping back in mild surprise as the light moved before quickly shaking it off, stepping forward, glancing furitively around him as he slowly headed closer, his spear pointed forward and ready.

Being alerted back to reality by Yelike’s yell Lutorian dashed into the cave to meet the rest. “I’m ever-sorry” before stopping and turning to Tameku and Darren “What’s he doing that ever-far from us?”

In reply to Game Master (msg # 284):

As Velike edged ever closer to where he had sighted the side tunnel he called out, pausing in his movements, “Ambusher I know you are there! I do not know if you have encountered my companion nor if you are the reason for his vanishing, but I know you lay in wait for us or another! So, be you beast or no, Step out from your hiding and face me!” Yelling in a hostile tone as he slammed the butt of his spear into the ground, waiting for a response.

"I have no idea what he's up to", Tameku said, "But apparently he has found somethin or someone. We should probably catch up to him." Instead of moving forward Tameku turned to Lutorian, though: "But where have you been? Found anything?"

Velike gave his best, but no answer was to be heard. If there was truly someone there, they were not willing to step back into the light.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 289):

“Coward! To hide in wait and then flee upon your discovery! What have you done to my charge?!” Velike yelled, steeping over to the wall to pull out a lightstone so he could follow.

Velike rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4.
(Does this need a roll? ‘Cause if no then just ignore the above. Thanks.)

Let's say yes, since you're trying to get it loose from a socket - but that's a yes anyhow.


The lightstone protruded far enough from its socket for Velike to get a good grip on it, and so it came loose with a single good tug. Its shine would certainly be useful.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 291):

“Coward!” Velike yelled, holding the lightstone and attempting to slot it into part of his chest armour (metronome function thingy) as he charged after, his spear held ready in his other hand,
This message was last edited by the player at 21:17, Thu 08 Feb 2018.

As he turned the corner, Velike realized that the side tunnel led further through a rough, winding path. Despite the darkness, a shimmering light danced across the rock walls, with the flickering shadow of whoever was holding it visible all around.

 He could tell he was gaining on the mysterious person. Suddenly, between two particularly large twists in the tunnel, the light vanished again. Velike reached another fork in the road soon after, and this time it branched off in multiple directions, each of them marked. Using the lightstone, it was easy to read the signs, and a quick glance was enough to do so.

---

Velike
Seems like someone went further down in a hurry... Could be dangerous to go alone.

Everyone
I assume that while Velike is decending, then running and shouting, the rest of you have time to exchange a few words and start moving if you wish to catch up, so don't worry about being left too far behind.

I'm revealing a bit of info about the deeper tunnels to Velike, as he's present in them. Unless you wait around up top you could be close behind him already, but it might be hard to find him if he goes through too many junctions alone. That's a fair warning to both him and the rest, I think.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 293):

"COWARD! ASSASSIN! FACE ME WITH HONOUR!" Velike yelled, pausing before entering the tunnel from which he heard footsteps as he remembered the others.
He quickly attempted to carve a quick V below the RAHI, before glancing around for the largest nearby stone and tossing it down the tunnel he had come through.

The minute the stone left his hand he turned and began his charge after the figure once again.

Velike rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4. Carving V.
(Rolled this just in case the sign mentioned is just the words and/or not a wooden sign. Just kinda guessing the wooden one wouldn't of needed a roll so if it doesn't I guess this can just be ignored, and if not, hey! Got a roll already then!)

Velike rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4. Stone size.
(Hope it was ok to presume I found one. Also, rolled for size because, larger the stone, louder the clatter, higher the chances of the others hearing it.

Velike rolled 6 using 1d6 with rolls of 6. Throwing stone back down tunnel.

(Also, Mata-Nui above! Such luck on my rolls!)
This message was last edited by the player at 14:23, Fri 09 Feb 2018.

“I can talk-explain later, we should probably try to stop Velike before he gets lost” Lutorian replied to Tameku, swiftly heading deeper into the cavern, while also keeping in pace for Darren and Tameku to follow closely to him.

Heading down the same path Velike had gone, Lutorian and the others could see that the tunnel straightened out and was lined with lightstones. One at the bottom of the slope was missing from its slot, leaving this section dimmer than the rest. The distant end of the tunnel was shrouded in darkness where the lightstones seemingly ended.

The outline of a side tunnel on the left-hand side sat roughly sixty meters ahead. Upon reaching it without trouble, Lutorian found that it snaked its way forwards through a more narrow and poorly lit path. The flickering light from a lightstone bouncing down the hallway and the sound of a thrown stone clattering against the surrounding rock told him that his companion must have veered off the main road and gone down this path.

Meanwhile, Velike continued his pursuit even further into the depths. The way forward was steep enough that he had to brace himself on the wall to avoid slipping, which was not made any easier by the trickle of water running over rocks in the dark. When his feet reached an ankle-deep stream of water at the bottom, he realized that the tunnel was entirely unlit save for the glowing stone in his hand.



Velike
You lose a few seconds to make the mark and throw a stone, but find no trouble in doing so. Bonus: You manage to clearly indicate which tunnel you are in to Lutorian.

If you wish to pursue swiftly enough through the water to catch up before this guy can get much further, please roll a check using any movement/swimming skills you have, and take 1d6 Physical damage (defense applies) from the struggle regardless of outcome.

If not you don't need to roll anything, but the gap between you will stay the same.

Lutorian
You're not far behind Velike. Your own lightstone will certainly aid you in this darker area too.


>> Here's a quick map of the tunnel layout so far. <<<

Not to scale. Velike has entered the flooded tunnel. Lutorian is on the main road, next to the entrance to the winding passage. The rest of you are somewhere between the entrance and the main road.

This message was last edited by the GM at 08:46, Fri 09 Feb 2018.

Tameku, cursing under his breath, followed Lutorian to the entrance of the winding path and stopped there. He cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted: "Velike! Come back!" In a normal tone he continued: "This looks exactly like a place Ferrin warned us about. What does this Akilini-Head think he's doing?"

Tameku rolled 5 using 1d6 with rolls of 5.  Trying to make Velike hear his shout - distance, echoes, water splashing might interfere.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:12, Fri 09 Feb 2018.

You are right - and the sound will reach him. It's dark, but Lutorian has a lightstone of his own. Do you press on?

"I suggest we wait here in case he heard me and finds his way back", Tameku told the others, "I definitely have no intention of running after him and ending up as a Nui-Jaga's meal. Also we have a job to do, responsibility. We'd endanger our mission and our lives senselessly if we go in there."

In reply to Game Master (msg # 296):

As Velike heard the shout he stumbled slightly, gritting his teeth as h remembered his other charges and his honour struggled between his choices. “I am sorry...” He whispered as chasing the assassin won out.

“I cannot! An assassin had been laying in wait for us within the tunnel! I have seen that he carries a disk of power and believe  he has done something to Lutorian! I must capture him!” Velike yelled back, an angry growl entering his voice as he yelled of what he fate he believed had fallen his charge. Also revealing to Tameku why he was doing this.

 As he finished he quickly whipped his head back around and began to push himself, despite the consequences he knew would occur, so as to finally catch this ambusher.

Velike rolled 5 using 1d6 with rolls of 5. Shouting back to Tameku.
Velike rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3. Damage from pushing himself to follow.

(Also, can that extract I have renew any of my aspects or only certain ones?)

(Update: subtracted health early but just realized I might’ve screwed that up when I checked the OOC thread. Put it back up but I’d subtracted it to 0 defense and 3 health.)
This message was last edited by the player at 14:25, Fri 09 Feb 2018.

Given velike's roll I can assume Tameku heard him, right?


"Lutorian is here!" Tameku shouted back.

Tameku rolled 2 using 1d6 with rolls of 2.  Trying to make Velike hear his shout - distance, echoes, water splashing might interfere.

Persistent in his chase, Velike pushed through the water, and with some extra effort he found himself catching up to the unknown Matoran in front of him. The passage was widening out now, and from the way the light scattered Velike became aware that they were entering a larger cavern. Water dripped from their bodies and left soggy wet footprints on the uneven, dusty surface. Dozens of stalagmites were visible in the dim light, along with several glowing blue spots shining in the dark. Outside of the light they had brought with them, the two Matoran were left in pitch-black darkness.

"I'm not an assassin!" shouted the runner angrily, unlimbering the Kanoka from his back as he ran. "I wish I didn't have to do this, but you have forced my hand!"

With that, he stopped and turned just as Velike was about to catch up, and flung the throwing disk with all his might in his foe's direction. He proved to have good aim, and took advantage of the close range to make the projectile impossible to dodge.



Velike
Sorry if I wasn't entirely clear - I wanted you to make a roll and apply the hit to your Physical aspect, since that one governs exhaustion, "toughing it out" and similar. All player characters start with 1 defense in each aspect by default, which puts them one step ahead of many NPCs and creatures.

You rolled 3. When we consult the roll chart, that equals 1 damage. Since we subtract your 1 defense you actually don't lose any Physical HP at all this time. Tougher challenges might call for more dice being rolled, but this one was fairly easy.

Defense is never lost unless some special effect reduces it.

Seems like you'll have another chance to take damage, though! :)

quote:

17:01, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Running Matoran, rolled 4 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 2,4,4.  Throwing disk, with skills: Ranged Combat, Disk Thrower.

Choose one:

• Take the hit head-on. Receive 2 Combat damage and suffer the disk's Weaken effect (drains Physical HP equal to its level, which is 5). Defense in each stat will apply.
• Block the hit with something you are carrying on your person. You will take no damage yourself but the item/armor piece you use to block suffers the Weaken effect instead. The material weakening will be permanent until replaced/repaired.

Regardless of choice, you have caught up to the Matoran and are quite close to him.

Tameku
Sorry, your shout doesn't reach. The most important one too! That's pretty inconvenient. Since you are outside the cave and not splashing with water, however, you can hear their distant shouting and probably the loud "clang!" of a disk. :)

This message was last edited by the GM at 16:28, Fri 09 Feb 2018.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 302):
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 16:51, Fri 09 Feb 2018.

Darren glances at Tameku and Lutorian. “Are we going after him? If there really is an assassin he might be in trouble.”

"And if we get lost in those tunnels we'll all be in trouble", Tameku replied.

Velike: You have 1 Defense in Physical, so you'd be left with 1 Physical HP if you go that route. Good thing you didn't lose any while going through the water. ;)

If you wish to use an item, you can indeed choose the armor on your left arm or similar. It's part of your body, but brittle armor may be better than exhaustion in battle depending on who you ask. Matoran have the luxury of swapping out parts, after all. It's up to you.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 306):

As the disk neared Velike raised his left arm to block the disk, snarling towards the matoran. “If you are not an assassin then why did you lie in wait for us? Why did you run when I gave call? Why did my charge not respond when I called for him?! I gave you a chance to end this honourably, Coward! Now hold and answer me! Give me reason why I should not run you through for my companions fate!” Velike roared at the matoran.

Velike rolled 2 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 1,2.  Intimidating the fleeing matoran.

(... you know, I was going to ask if the intimidation skill was useable in this situation but it appears it doesn’t matter either way... also, ouch.)

(Also, didn’t I lose that 1 defence from the increased running?
This message was last edited by the player at 21:26, Fri 09 Feb 2018.

The powered disk struck Velike's armor with a forceful 'bang', and a flash of energy flowed into the metal where it made contact. The piece of armor shook and turned brittle, indicated by tiny cracks appearing all over its surface. The disk bounced off, and clattered against the stone floor in between the two Matoran. The gray one eyed it for a moment and tensed as if to dive for it, but changed his mind and took a step back.

Around them, the blue lights moved in response to the noise. A low but strident sound came from multiple directions in the dark, as some of the lights moved up and down in rhythmic fashion.

"I was told to wait for a Ta-Matoran," said the Ruru-wearing Matoran in an urgent tone, before taking a deep breath, "but no one told me they would be crazy! I haven't seen your companion. If I had, I would not have been peeking around to see who you were."

With his disk out of reach, the stranger moved a hand towards a metal sheath attached to his upper leg. A knife rested in it, and he struggled to loosen its bindings. His eyes darted around the dark cave in a frantic manner.

"I think you've doomed us both," he whispered, indicating the now obvious presence of several cave-dwelling Rahi waking from their sleep.



That's a no on intimidating him... but he looks scared by something else.

Your armor has turned brittle - taking another hit to this location may shatter it.

Defense never decreases unless specifically noted; otherwise it would just be extra HP. It's your passive damage resistance, so to speak. If you lose a piece of armor completely I'd say you also can't apply your defense to that location, but it's otherwise an innate part of your body that applies in most situations.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:07, Fri 09 Feb 2018.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 305):

“At least we’ll all be together. Breaking up the group isn’t going to be wise down here.” He looks around for a source of light, moving to grab the nearest one he could see. “I think we should go.”

In reply to Game Master (msg # 308):

"I... you-you were? That would make sense... Oh... oh dear..." Velike replied, his tone stunned, a devastated look flashing across his expression momentarily before being replaced with his usual guarded and wary look as he glanced across the rahi.

"I... I apologize for my actions. After I realized I had lost track of my charge I panicked and presumed something had been done to them. When you ran my panic took advantage and blurred my thoughts and actions with anger." Velike said, apologizing in an honest tone as he readied his spear.

"Once we make it out of here I will make it up to you. I promise you that. Grab your disk of power and then prepare to run, if it still has use it may allow for you to, if possible collapse something, or delay a nearing rahi, I will cover your escape. My companions are waiting outside the tunnel, they are less... 'insane' as you put it, they will listen." Velike said to the matoran, moving to face, and protect the matron from,as many of the rahi as he could, his spear held ready if with a more careful grip from his armours damage.
He quickly glanced across the ceiling, hoping to sight an area the disk could be used on if necessary, before flicking his eyes back to the rahi as he waited, attempting to get a count on their numbers as he did.

Velike rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4. Cave ceiling.
Velike rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3. Enemy count.

(Ah, that makes sense... may or may not have been subtracting that every time so had like one of them with defense still... fixed that at least...)

(Also, should I have attempted to also convince him? I can throw that roll in if so! (Would that also allow for the honorable skill too? (Apology/attempt to protect him))
This message was last edited by the player at 23:26, Fri 09 Feb 2018.