Chapter 3: Into Monru.
Copyright © 2000 by the players of Emerald Sphere of Sighs.

From: Game Master [2000-02-07 23:47:56]
Subject: Did you hear that?
You have been traveling now for about 4 hours. Dusk is beginning to take over. The forests' browns and greens become hues of purple and gray with streams of amber light sifting down as the last bits of sunlight make their way through the thick forest trees. The pace has slowed considerably as the party members become tired and unable to keep up the quicker marching. Some of you simply have your heads downcast as you concentrate on keeping one foot hitting the ground in front of you. The hope that you can remain upright is in the forefront of your mind. Some of you are thankful for your years of training, yet even that is starting to wear thin as you can feel fatigue setting in. Chúrisan and the old man keep looking behind them as though something is there. Deshnah continues to make little side trips but never looses sight of the group. You see one of Oruns large hands rise up into the sky as a sign for the group to stop. It is almost hard for you to stop the methodical pace your body has set for itself, but you stop at last and listen to your surroundings. You can hear that the forest is alive. Alive with animal sounds, the night animals who are starting to come out with the advancement of darkness. But there is something else, something more. You look at each other as if to say "did you hear that?" The warriors start moving off the road and the priests follow. No one makes a sound as you slide off into the foliage.

After a few moments you see a few small rodents scurrying down the center of the road, their noses sniffing the trail you have left. They pause and search the air for your scent. A couple of larger animals enter the area and examine the area where you once were. You slowly, noiselessly, draw weapons and
position yourselves for a possible melee. Then, from down the path, from the direction you were headed, comes the sounds of men. The animals retreat back to whence they had come and the sight of torches in the dusk come into view. There in the early dusk you see a man standing in the middle of the road. A man in purple robes who has brought a contingent of soldiers and priests with him. He stands in the road, silent, listening, thinking. After a brief moment he waves to a torch bearer who scurries to his side. You can see the markings of the battle mage emblazoned on his robes. Robes which seem to sit rather strangely on this man, as though altered to afford him greater latitude in movement, not at all the traditional cut. The torch lights the faintest spider-web tracery of long-healed scars which shroud the side of his face. His gaze is intense and searching.

You see him take a deep breath a say, "I am Neshkriuma hiKharsama of the Great Stone Clan, defender of warriors, defeater of spells. I am sent by the temple in Monru to seek out the one called Dlarumei Ba'ashcha of the Cloak of the Azure Gems and Orun Vu'urtesh of the Blade Raised High Clan. Temple Guard in Katalal, and Kasi for the legion of the Scarlet Planet of Knives. I am to accompany them and the group which travels with them to the gates at Monru. If you be these, please show yourselves so that we may return before it becomes too dark. I was given this contingent of noble priests and serious pikemen to assure your safety. I also have 4 Paliquins for those who would seek a less arduous form of travel." As he mentions the priests you see them lower their heads, when he speaks of the pikemen, you see them kneel and lower their polearms. The Paliquens are brought up to where he stands as he mentions them and it is obvious that he is waiting for someone to move. After a few moments you watch as Orun stands, sword drawn but point down, and walks slowly to the priest. You see them exchange a greeting and a bow and Orun turns to the group and bids you to come and join him.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2000-02-08 11:59:13]
Subject: An interesting turn of events
Ssrivan was a bit nonplussed by the exchange between Orun and our apparent pursuit, but was willing to work with the materials at hand. He came forth to stand by the side of Orun, ready to act if necessary, but otherwise the apparently tired-out traveler he appeared to be. He inclined his head slightly to Neshkriuma, but did not initially introduce himself.

From: Adzul hiOgeado [2000-02-09 03:33:02]
Subject: Let's Go
Having caught his breath, Adzul steps forward and greets the strangers. Hee introduces himself and to the relief of the slaves declines any thought of a palanquin. (He has never riden in such a thing and for one of his social class it would be a presumption)Instead he says he needs the continued exercise to get into shape for what is to come.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2000-02-09 10:34:25]
Subject: moving on
Chúrisan steps slowly out of the brush, again putting away an arrow. He introduces himself to Neshkriuma, and indicates that he too is ready to proceed at once.

From: Kúnur Chettukéng [2000-02-09 18:22:39]
Subject: Thank the Worm!
Kúnur also leaves the bush, moving placidly towards Neshkiruma, greeting him with his usual hard face and cold voice. "I greet you (of perfect piety) in humility. I am Kúnur Chéttukeng of the Dark Water clan, Kusijáktodali of the Temple of Lord Sárku."

He looks at the palanquins, and for a fraction of a second, a grin cracks Kúnur's face. "It is with the utmost humility and honor beyond words that I accept your (of perfect piety) noble offer. I (of abject unfitness) OOC: OK, so I made that up! will take one of the palanquins."

Kúnur turns to Adzul, "you would do well to take one of the palaquins yourself. Trust me."

From: Adzul hiOgeado [2000-02-12 16:51:56]
Subject: Adzul inclined to decline reclineing
Adzul says, "No I had best get used to the soldier's palnqin now and I cannot believe that walking I will slow us down any more than by being born on a litter. It would seem the appropriate time however for Orun to transfer my pack to one of the bearers on the off chance he needs freedom of movement."

From: Game Master [2000-02-12 23:19:45]
Subject: Onward
Orun steps toward Adzul and, with a half smile on his face, says, "Nobel Adzul, your advise is well taken and I appreciate your astute concern. We should all unburden ourselves of our extra gear to help lighten our loads. I would, however, if I were you, take the advise of our noble Kúnur and enjoy one of the palanquins for yourself. I assure you that the bearer are fresh and able to move quite well under much more strenuous circumstances. If you still wish to venture further along on foot, I would like to share your company for the next bit of our travel, if you don't mind."

From: Adzul hiOgeado [2000-02-13 12:29:46]
Subject: In Reply
Adzul replies,"I will accept your company gladly but I will trust my own two legs. Such as I do not ride in palanqins and this hardly seems the time to learn. I am sure that such conveince needs its own getting used to and I have enough new things to concentrate on. Let us continue our journey and hopefully a bath and some wine awaits us in a nice hostel or clanhouse."

From: Kúnur Chettukéng [2000-02-14 16:25:07]
Subject: Get your ass on that goddamn palanquin, you fat bastard! ;)
"Noble companion in sojourn," Kúnur adresses Adzul, emotionless as usual but obviously trying to be polite, "we would proceed far more expediently if you would take one of the palanquins. The bearers are fresh and the journey will be comfortable and swift."

"And if I may be sincere, neither of us is quite used to physical exercise like the many hours of march we have been through, and this is certainly not the time for our lack of fitness to get on the group's way."

From: Game Master [2000-02-15 14:27:06]
Subject: follow the yello......arg....
Neshkriuma turn to the his contingent and makes a short and crisp gesture. The priests and pikemen snap up from their subdued positions as the palanquins hit the ground.

"I have been charged with returning to Monru with you as quickly as possible," Neshkriuma states loudly, " Therefore, if it pleases you ( of noble company) we shall leave, now!" The "now" was emphasized, curt, yet polite. " The Palanquins are ready for those of you who wish to use them, the rest of you who wish to continue walking may also do so."

He makes a motion with his hands and the Priests and pikemen encompass the group as a means of protection.

[OOC- non of this is done in any manner which would or could be considered threatening.]

He then nods to Dlarumei and Orun and moves to the head of the column where he signals them to start moving. Orun and Dlarumei start to walk to the head of the column as well while the old man has separated himself. He remains outside the ring of protection and to the rear of the group.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2000-02-15 18:22:18]
Subject: Palanquins
The long walk has left Ssrivan desiring a bit of comfortable travel, and so he heads towards one of the inviting palanquins and seats himself comfortably. He gestures to the slaves to proceed and leans back to enjoy the ride and stretch his tired feet. Monru is calling out to him with its promise of food, a comfortable bed, and most importantly, explanations. He does keep an eye on the road and the woods around them, as it would not do to be unduly surprised by possible opposition forces.

From: Deshnah [2000-02-15 18:44:40]
Subject: To ride or not to ride
Deshnah, as has been his wont of late, can be seen squatting off to the edge of the trail, a little a head of the pikemen. His face betrays a curious combination of befuddlement and amusement. Old at twenty-something, he does not act on his mischievous instincts to take a litter for fun. Rather, he distractedly picks through his long braids looking for lice.

From: Game Master [2000-02-21 20:34:01]
Subject: Land ho...oh wait..
As you travel on down the road toward Monru the sun sets on your party. More torches are set ablaze to light your path. It is also apparent that enough torches are sent burning as to expose the dark sides of the road as well. Several priests have cast light spells and shine beacons of amber and white light out into the forest, illuminating both small and large creatures of the night which scurry off as the light decloaks them from their dark havens.
The sound of the forest is quite different at night, creatures crying out for food, courtship, protection and fear. Many dodge and dart from one hiding place to another. Some just sonter heavily throughout the thick undergrowth, unafraid of predators. The light, calm sounds of the day have turned into the heavy, thick, low tones of the night. It is a sound that makes most of you just a little uneasy. The party marches on. Not much is heard from anyone, it seems that this long day has taken its toll on the members of your group. It is not long after sun set that you see the glow of the township called Monru and like cheiien headed for the stall your pace quickens and your steps become lighter. (except those of you riding in the palanquins, you just tap your foot a bit.)

Soon you are able to see the tall towers of the gate house and hear the guardsmen call out your arrival. "This is a well established town." you think to yourself, "especially for out here in the middle of nowhere. It almost seems like a military outpost of some sort, what with its walls and gates." Never the less, you push all that to the back of your mind as you focus on the prospect of a warm room and some hot food. The gates open as you draw close and you can see the well lit homes and apartments which line the street just inside the gate. As you enter the town through the gate, you look up and notice the careful scrutiny of the night watch. The homes here are fairly nice and the main street is covered in stone. This is not exactly what you expected in the Kurt Hills. After winding around the main street for a bit, you finally arrive at a very large and well maintained set of apartments. They sit on the south end of a very large plaza (something else that you did not expect) Off to the north end of the plaza you can make out the typical stylization's of a temple of Ksarul. To the west is a temple of Karakan and as you look around you can see several other temples lining the plaza. This is no Jakalla, but it has many of the trappings of a large city.

Your gaze is interrupted by a loud cry from on top of the stairs which lead to the entrance of the apartments. "Welcome, most distinguished guests!" A tall, dark man who is rather,.... well, let's just say that he has established himself as one who enjoys a good meal, stands at the top of the stairs with his hands outstretched in welcome. " I am Aijom Ketkolel owner of this establishment and Host to you for your stay in Monru. I would bid you (of noble guestedness) (I know, I know) to come and enjoy the hospitality that I have to offer. I have rooms for you to use, baths for your convenience and a fine meal, which my cooks are puting the finishing touches on as we speak. I hope to take away some of the strain and pain that the road has heaped upon you. So come and let us welcome you and make you comfortable." The large man waves at you, with a thick hand, to mount the stairs and follow him inside.

From: Adzul hiOgeado [2000-02-22 18:28:11]
Subject: A fine end to the day
Adzul enters the hostel most greatfully and hopes for time to change and wash his face and hands figuring a bath will have toi wait till after dinner and conversation.

From: Neshkriuma hiKharsama [2000-02-22 19:08:59]
Subject: First impressions.
After this terse greating, Neshkriuma lapses into watchfull silence. It seems to the rest of the party that the burden of some unknown resposibility has been lifted and the wirey little priest settles into an east gait that ranges easily from the front of the column to the back and all points in between. As the group comes to a halt within the safety of the town's palisade and the weary traveller's disembark, Nesh takes a moment to speak privately with Aijom.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2000-02-23 01:31:57]
Subject: Hostels and Food
Ssrivan, well rested after the ride on the palanquin, turned to his companions of the road and bowed slightly to those who escorted us the final way into Monru. He then went up the stairs to enter the establishment before us--long travel did make the throat go dry, an a bit of Dlel fruit wine would do him a world of good right now. Of course, food wood be nice too, though he suspected that Adzul would be happier on that count. He entered the hostel and looked for a nice table. If Adzul did not object, he would share that worthy's space, as it would also give them an opportunity to talk during dinner.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2000-02-23 14:48:29]
Subject: ill at ease
Chúrisan stowed his bow when the group arrived at the hostel, but is clearly not yet comfortable. As the priests descend from their palanquins, the warrior takes a long drink from his water bottle. He joins the group entering the hostel, looking around for some sign of what sort of place it is. He declines any offers of drink or food (for the moment at least). He speaks only to Orún: "Now we are in Monru. It would seem an appropriate time for explanations."

From: Game Master [2000-02-23 16:18:16]
Subject: Orún responds to Chúrisan
Orún responds to Chúrisan. "Chúrisan, you are correct, explanations are in order, and as soon as Master Norumee arrives he will be able to tell you all that you are interested in knowing. As for me, I will take the interim time, which will be short I assure you, and clean some of this road from my person. Then I'll have a drink and a trifle before we sit down for the wondrous repast which is being prepared for us.

"I am also sure," Orun continues to the whole group, " that rooms have been arranged for you if you would prefer to rest for a bit or unburden yourselves of some of you heavy packs. You may, of course, remain here for the time and enjoy this lavish room with all that it has to offer. The choice, my noble colleagues, is up to you." With that he walks toward a doorway which you presume is the way to a bath house or a wash basin of some sort.

From: Adzul hiOgeado [2000-02-25 05:16:33]
Subject: I'll Be Back
Adzul says, "If you will excuse me I will go to my room where I am sure at least a basin can be found as I have no desiore to attend this delightful dinner smelling like a wet hma." So saying he adjournes to his room calling for a basin of warm water. Cleans himself off changes out of his travelling clothes and rubs some soothing ointment on his feet. He will return in time for dinner in clean clothes and carrying only his writing case.

From: Neshkriuma hiKharsama [2000-02-25 09:08:08]
Subject: "When it's time to relax...."
After exchanging a few brief words with Aijom, Neshkriuma follows the slightly diminished contingent into the hostle. He sheds his travel-stained overmantle and petitions the inn-keeper for a tall mug of some sort of steaming beverage, seaming more at ease to secure it himself than to make use of one of the many servants that buzz about the room. He downs half of this in one deep draught and lets out a long, lip-smacking sigh of contentment.

"Ahhhhh...That's better!" he says. "Welcome to my earstwile abode, humble as it is." He sweeps his free hand expansively about the room. "A great burden has been lifted to see you arrived none the worse for wear, if somewhat spent; there was some cause for concern. Please accept the hospitality of The Great Stone Clan and this humble servant of Hru'u and allow me to offer you some spiced wine. It is more than passable." All of the tension and focus evidenced during the final march into Monru has left the little priest's body, though his eyes remain bright and alert.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2000-02-25 21:38:17]
Subject: Servants and Bath Houses
Ssrivan perks up at the thought of a comfortable bath. He motions a servant over and inquires as to the location of his room and his bath. This detail taken care of, he has the servant lead him to the place of relaxation, as he too is none too keen on remaining covered in the dust of a long day's journey. He will return to the main room in his spare set of clothing after washing up. He will also have one of the servants take care of the details of washing his travel stained clothes to prepare them for the morrow.

From: Game Master [2000-02-26 23:07:00]
Subject: what a nice lap...
Aijom Ketkolel once again clears his throat, only this time his voice is much more subdued and his demeanor several notches more formal. You can see the pride in his stance. " My noble guests," he begins with a deep and formal bow, " It is my pleasure and honor to invite you to rest, relax and enjoy your stay here in the "The House of Tranquil Repose""
You notice several of the servants stop their activities for a brief moment, bowing their heads slightly in reverence before continuing on with their affairs. "It is with much delight," he continues, "that I welcome you here and offer you each a private apartment, which has been prepared for your arrival this evening. Each Apartment has two rooms of course and I am sure that you will be quite pleased with the variety of refreshing elixirs, fruits and eatable delights which await you. It will be but a short while before we will dine in the private apartment of your host."

"If you are so inclined to rest for a bit or unpack, just ask any of our servants to guide you to your apartment. You are all located in the same wing for ease of communication and comfort of familiarity. There are baths and steam rooms in your wing for your comfort and a way with which to cleanse the road from your body.

If you are in need of any other delights that are not present in your apartment when you arrive there, please forgive my short sightedness in not thinking that far in advance. I am sure that we can arrange for anything you will need, if it is within my powers to acquire. The Clan of the Green Kurtle is within our city and they have many delights to share if you have the need of their particular assistance. There are also those of the Clan of the Wondrous Dream if you are so inclined as to partake of their special brand of relaxation's. Though I would recommend waiting until after the repast with your host before indulging yourselves with that particular form of relaxation. We will summons you well in advance of the time for adjournment to your Hosts apartment. Until then, noble
guests, My House is yours." With a grand sweeping gesture of his arm and a long and ernest bow he takes a step back. As straightens up again you see 10 or more servants come forward and look at you, waiting for you to pick one of them so that they may begin their service for you.

From: Deshnah [2000-02-27 13:53:14]
Subject: what to do?
After some months of exposure to 'civilization' now, Deshnah is astute enough not to simply plop down and grab a fistfull of food. Instead, he decides to fall in beside Churisan [literally], who is obviously the only one about that has some sense of self-preservation. Mimicing Churisan's moves, Deshnah exageratedly draws out his leather flask and takes a swig to wash off the dust of the road. He then kicks back against the wall and attempts to look suspiciously at Monru.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2000-02-27 14:50:02]
Subject: gearing down
Chúrisan finds a place appropriate to his status, and neatly stacks his knapsack, bowcase, sword, and helmet nearby. He summons a servant to help remove his breastplate and leather tunic, and then fetch a washbasin so the warrior can clean his face and hands.

From: Game Master [2000-02-28 14:34:29]
Subject: just things
You see servants rush to help. Two approach Chúrisan and a conversation starts.

From: Deshnah [2000-02-28 18:11:39]
Subject: washing
Deshnah stiffens as the servants approach and focuses his attention on Churisan's response. He does not draw his hip dagger, but he does softly hook his thumb in the colorful sash next to it's hilt.

From: Game Master [2000-03-01 10:16:28]
Subject: To your room master?
Those of you who head off to your apartments are guided by a servant while two other servants bring up the rear with your bags and equipment. You find that you are all located on the second floor towards the end of the west wing. At the end of the hallway is a large round room with a small fountain at its center. Your apartments main doorways are found encompassing the fountain so that you can clearly see each others door from your own.

Upon entering your apartment you notice a large, lavishly furnished room. It contains a small desk or table, several mats on the floor and several tapestries around the room. You notice many cushions scattered about the floor, designating suggested sitting areas.There is a wonderful opening to a balcony overlooking the plaza. It is separated from the outside by a magnificent wooden sliding door with little shutters placed throughout it. The shutters are open, at the moment, to let in the light of the lanterns stationed on the balcony as well as the soft evening breezes.

As you walk into the room you notice a doorway leading to the second room where you see several small chests, a large overstuffed mat, raised slightly off the floor, as a bed and a small writing table. (one that you would write on while seated on the floor). The servants begin by placing you equipment in front of the small chests as an indicator that this would be the appropriate place to stow your things.

After having accomplished that task, two of the servants quickly leave and the third motions to the table in the main room where you see several small decanters and several glasses. There you also see a small bowl of fruit and some other local delicacies. The servant picks up a glass and pores a drink for you. It is obvious that this is a welcoming gesture and if you do not drink it will not be viewed as an insult.

These rooms feel very comfortable, and though stark in the amount of comforts, the ones that are present are very rich in color and texture. Some, you surmise, are made from the local artisans who's quality is rarely seen. The small stand in the corner contains oils and flowers which scent the room as the gentile breeze blows softly over it. The servant then lights several of the ornate oil lanterns which hang from the walls. These apartments are designed for rest and tranquility, as well as being functional. If you care to discuss your findings with your comrades you will find that all of the rooms are similar in size and design.

The balcony is one large outdoor hallway. It has an overhang roof to keep the sun or rain off of the smooth stones the walk way. All of the rooms that you are in are connected by this balcony. From the balcony you can see the entire plaza. It is well lit by large lanterns and torches and you can see the people going on about their business below.

You are quite a ways up from the plaza itself. The inn is raised on a stone and earthen mound and that puts the second floor far above where you would normally expect it to be in relation to the ground. It is a most interesting observation post and one, you surmise, that is almost impossible to reach from the outside. This makes you feel more secure and relaxed.

If you pause for a moment and lean on the rail of the balcony, you feel the warm evening breeze against your face and smell the fabulous sent of the gardens below. It is a very peaceful end to a long hard forced march and you welcome this small escape into pleasure.

From: Adzul hiOgeado [2000-03-02 17:36:56]
Subject: A little paranoia never hurt anyone
Adzul accepts the drink and dismess the servant as he heads for the balcony. When the servant has left Adzul casts alleviation on the drink before he consumes it then he has a quick glance behind the tapestrys. If nothing strikes him as untoward he will try to relax and head for the baths.

From: Kúnur Chettukéng [2000-03-02 18:13:27]
Subject: Just what the doctor prescribed ;)
[OOC: Sorry for the hiatus. I've been busy as hell lately]

Apparently, Kúnur remains indifferent to the lavish facilities and luxuries of the House of Tranquil Repouse [sp?]. More careful observers, however, will notice that the nearly-emaciated priest is much more at ease amidst baths, beverages and servants than marching through dark forests.

He gladly accepts the beverage handed over to him.

From: Adzul hiOgeado [2000-03-14 04:36:00]
Subject: I have returned
Adzul returns for dinner wearing fresh clothes and having lost the reddish exhausted sheen that he had on the journey. He looks much more relaxed and is anticipiating a wonderful dinner. He also is hopeing at dinner that he will be better able to understand everybodys social rank so that he will know his proper place.

From: Adzul hiOgeado [2000-03-04 04:54:46]
Subject: Curious
Adzul stands to one side and uses the blade of a knife to lift the cover.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2000-03-14 10:29:42]
Subject: ooc: tekumel email list

OOC: Hi all. Just wanted to let you know about a tekumel email list that has recently started. Brett Slocum set it up at http://www.onelist.com/group/tekumel. It is unmoderated, so Prof. Barker probably won't appear, but it is open to all Tekumel related topics, and is getting moderately active. It's a substitute for the still-moribund Blue Room list. Those of you who read the alt.games.frp.tekumel Usenet newsgroup will have already heard about it, but I suspect some of you may not read that group, but might want to know about the list. Someone there asked about current Tekumel campaigns, and I posted a little about our game; we may have an audience soon. :)
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 07:57, Sun 27 Feb 2005.