This  is   the thread, whenplayers  are at the Village.

  The  two wagons  and thier  Lone Bodyguard where stopped on the Forest road,  some  dozen elves  appeared before them from the trees, most has the Bows  ready.

 now then? Is this here the way to greet us! We Brining  ya  the Ingots  fer ya arrowheads and blades!

 A Female  elf  walked to the Wagon, studied the  two merchants  and the boadyguard,your  second  trip this spring? Must have made fast passage to yhour homelands?

 The Merchant shook his head, the other one laughed, Nay...we just by passed Vol and Tou...figured  we would bring it all to you..what ya don't  want, we'll sell on the way back.

 The  female Pointed to a Younger  MAle. Lead them in....

  The merchants  and thier  bodyguard followed the Lone MAle warrior. If  any  of the three on the  two wagons would have looked back...there would have been no trace of the remaining 11 elves.......

  As   Kree and His unit approach the Black Timber. Those who were never  there before, see just why, it's  called t...The Black Timber.

  Huge Trees, some of them higher then the Walls of Ironmound itself, Grow in thick abundance, almost as if  nature has  built its own fortress. The Ironwood Trees, Black and thick ,are harvested  for   the wood , that Ironmound, and even  some of the smaller cities, use for Building ships. A true advanatge  , Ironmound's  Navy has over the Red  Isles and the Northmen.

 The Elves of the Black Timber, and   The Ironwood Forest,, north of the Storm River. Guard the  trees with a passion. Only those  who have the writ, and the coin can harvest trees...and even then..only under the watchful eyes of the elves. To take, even a sapling, without  permission can lead to dismemberment  and death. Some  dead Oak trees and the like, a few yards outside the thick forest, hold testiment to this. as  Rotted  bodies  and skeletons hang from the  dead trunks, Staked there By the elves. Runes  are CArved into the foreheads, so the rune shows on the skulls...they are labeled  as Thieves, or slavers, or tresspassers.

  when they are  a halfmile away from the  Forest...Six  lithe  figures  come  trotting out of the  Treeline , towards them % have thier  bows ready, even as they run...the  6th is in the lead and his heading straight towards them
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:24, Sun 23 Oct 2011.

In reply to donsr (msg #3):

Justin eyes the approaching elves with some regard adjusting the body on his shoulders to allow for better movement. When they are within bowshot he'll raise one hand in greeting

  The Leves  fan out  Bows  Drawn to thier  ears at least two of them aiming  at the non-elves in the party. Drasius  rolls her  eyes   as she drifts  back towards Kree And Ivy. The  set the Body down  and Kree walks directly towards  the  Elf patrol leader.

 Quickshadow? YOu bring  more of  your...Arrows here?

 Aye, Huri..they have  signed on, we had others. One  or  two have been slain, the others thought  better of the task and went back to the city..at least we think they did...

 Huri Motions  to  the Elves  and they come to help the Arrows  with the Bodies,Come..we will help with yhour Burden. the  last few  days   have been heavy in Cat Folk  raids...once you reat up? We  could  use your aid.

In reply to Elf  Patrol (msg #5):

Justin smiled and nodded at the elves offer. Thankest Thee goodelf. Yon remains hardly be a burdon, yet if Thee wish We shall share such tweenst us. We be Justin Havslain anst Thee
This message was last edited by the player at 05:36, Mon 24 Oct 2011.

Rolf knew a bit about the fairer folk, though he'd had few dealings with them.  He kept his bow stave in hand, but made no move to string it despite the prickly feeling of having arrows trained upon him.

Quickly, the tension bleeds away as the elves seem to know Kree and are on, if not friendly, at least non-hostile terms with the Arrows.  At the mention of the cat folk though, a gleam of hatred shines in Rolf's eye.

"I be Rolf Liefsen and I have traveled far to spill the blood of the cat folk.  I'm willing to help you put down some of the craven curs."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:47, Mon 24 Oct 2011.

In reply to Metal Merchants (msg #2):

When the elves converged on the wagons that he was guarding, Duran made no move to reach for a weapon. He had heard that the elf folk were a quiet lot prone to using stealth where it were prudent. But Duran had heard them on their approach none the less. He watched as their leader addressed the men who had hired him, and when their leader looked his way, Duran's sky blue eyes seem to be looking through her. When she made eye contact with him the warrior tilted his head slightly in greeting,then he causally continued to survey his surroundings.

As the wagonmaster urged their beasts onward the warrior took his place beside the merchant in lead wagon. He urged the black stallion he rode forward with a light touch of his knees. Duran turned in the saddle and looked briefly over his shoulder as they went on. A barely noticable grin flashed across his face when he saw the elf bowmen had already concealed themselves again.

"Well trained, and good dicipline." he said under his breath to no one in particular as he turned back facing forward and they rode on.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:56, Mon 24 Oct 2011.

  The  Gate opens, there are  many elven bowmen, easy to see , on the palisades and  walking close to the gates, a 'killing area has been cleared  about   100 yards  around the palilsades, though...some 69-70 feet up, the larger  Ironwood trees , strech thier  bbranches  over the Village, like  a canaope.

  As the wagons   trundle towards  the middle of the Village Duran can see   Humans, elves , and Dwarves   working together, streets..of a fashion..wind down of the  main road, bigger shops  and store line the  main road.

 In the CVenter of the  Villgae  a hunge Totem stands, a carved Razorhawk  with  its Bone-crest shining in the sun and its  wings  spread. the length of the  Totem is covered  by strange tiles, most  are alight, some are dark, they all have  a rune or two on them, and below the rune is  a number..

 The  wagon moves to the far side of the square, some smiths, of  all races approach the wagons, as do craftsmen..to see the  wares that have been brought.

  Kree's Unit n enters about  10 minutes  behind the wagons. Many of the Younger  folks, some of them wearing  Hunting Leathers come running  as the group stops  at the square, one of the elders approaches the group, as do the sages   who arr  working on the  Totem.

  Quickshadow. You have  returned..have you numbers to report? and what have you  here?

 Kree nods, and one of the sages looks at him with a stylus in his  hand  and a small clay tablet, I have  2  to add to mine, since last i was here...Ivy has  another  as well..As  does Drasius...These new Arrows  Justin and Rolf should be given credit for 2  apiece...as  for these? we were set upon by Gremblins, we think  they might have taken one of  my newer Arrows...But these be  Gremblins, I would like a fair price  for them, to split  amoung  my unit..they have earned it.

  The sage   with the tablet  moves  to the totem and  the helpers begin to move the tiles around. The  Bring  one, that is high  down, change the number  and hand it back up, they do this  with two others, then make  2  new  tiles  with a rune and  numbers on, for Justin  and Rolf..

 ( i will make  a sperate thread  for the Totem 'standings later'...it is basicly a Kill record   of  Razorhawk/Arrows  foes...))

Durzak will approach the party that around the totem.

Hello I am Durzak Glorgrim, could you point out Kree Quickshadow to me I was sent my his friend Reedrick Orebender from Ironmound to join his unit.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:14, Tue 25 Oct 2011.

In reply to The wagons (msg #9):

Duran eyed the scene before him and watched those who approached the wagons. He showed a passing interest in the totem but quickly returned his attention to the job at hand. The blond warrior did not move to block the costumers, as they made their way to the merchants on the wagon, but nudged his horse forward where he could intervene if someone did try to harm his charges.

The warrior sat atop his steed alert to all that was going on around them. It was obvious even to the casual onlooker that the man was bred to the saddle, and the weapons he wore were not there for show.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:09, Tue 25 Oct 2011.

   The  slightly taller of the  two darkhaired elves  turned to the dwarf,.. I am Quickshadow. If you say Reedricd sent you? I must assume  you have the proof to show me? Both elves , eyed the Dawrf, the female  elf walked slowly ovver  watching as well.


......................................

  Transaction were being  made quickly, it  looked as though the Merchants may have did a wise thing, coming straight to the elven Village. Aleady, apprentices were  approaching  and  taking   the Ingots  the  smiths had paid  for.

Rolf decides the others could respond to Durzak's request.  After all, if he intended mischief, Rolf didn't care to be an unwitting accomplice.  Instead, his eyes play about the Elvish settlement.  While he was not learned in Elvish lore, he'd always heard the were close to the wilds, much as he himself.

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg #13):

Sorry about that my cloak must of hid the item you must see to make sure that I am one of you.

Durzak slowly move his cloak where Kree can see the ruby pin.

As I have show you the proof that I am a Arrow can we get down to business.

  The  two  elevs stpe forward and  offer thier  arms in a warrior's Grip,Then we are  well met. Reedrick is pretty plain when he speaks, but incase  he was in a rush, I will add these words... The Crimson Arrows are a Mercneary Compmay, to be sure. But we also exterminate  any slavers, Bandits and Cursed Red Isle Halflings  we meet...any foes of  Ironmound, are foes  of the Razorhawks, inturn, it makes them foes of  The Arrows  as  well...We are not  out here to 'save them'..nor 're-educate them'...we are here to kill them..collect the bounties, and make certain , they never  ruin another life  again... we are going to collect the coin for these bodies, re-supply..then get the Information on the Cat-folk..they seem to be extra  active  ...

Depositing the creatures body in a suitable area, in preperation for its sale Justin ensures his armour and equipment are free of the bodily residue. Once satisfied he heads towade the Dwarven Red Arrow. Extending his arm in traditional manner Greetings Durzak Glorgrim one beith Justin Havslane, devout of Eta

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg #16):

Durzak other his arm in the warrior's grip to the elves and reply,

Reedrick was in a rush but not as much as I am to get into battle with the enemy.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:42, Wed 26 Oct 2011.

In reply to Justin (msg #17):



Greetin to you Justin Havslane, devout of Eta

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg #16):

Duran watched over the merchants that had hired his sword arm, he also watched and listened to the conversations going on around him. He made a mental note to find this dark haired elf who called himself a Crimson Arrow later on after he had fulfilled his duties. If there were coin to be made the blond-haired warrior was interested. It didn't much matter to him what the quarry was as long as the price was right.

In reply to Duran Owedoc (msg #20):

Justin noting several elves unloading a wagon he chanced to observe a mounted guardsman who appeared to be paying them a bit more attention than normal. Goodfellow Kree hath Thee knoweth of yon warrior he asked chinning in the guards direction

"Rolf Liefsen," Rolf finally introduces himself to the newcomer.  He doesn't seem interested in exchanging further pleasantries or shaking hands, though he'll accept one if offered.  His clothes and equipment mark him as a woodsman, no stranger to blade or bow, but no armor wearing bruiser either.

  hearing Justin's words  about the Mounted warrior, the younger  elf nods to Kree,seems like he knows his  way around   a blade....what vdo you think, cousin?

  we shall see...we do not know if he is partnered  with the metal merchants or nay...we will find out soon, i suppose

  a cart comes over  being pulled  by a large Lizard, that has  a Turtle  Like shell, its  sharpe  teeth grinn as its  tongue  slips in  and out. the two sage -assiasstants, load the Gremblins  bodies on the carts, The  MAster Sage says,I assume , you will be in The Shattered Blade...we will have your coin sent there, as soon as  we gather

Goodfellow Kree if Thee willst One hath a modicum of healing ability Hath any hereabouts have need of assistance with injury.

  Kree looks  about, If  any are in need? I do not see them, howere...there  be enough clerics  , sages  and Healers  about, to take care of  any brought in. Let us Go to the Shattered Blade, we will get something to eat and Driink, and  Perhaps you all will  find Lodging  with My  Family this  night...then...on the morrow, we will see about  skinning  some  cats....

 The Older of the two darkhaired-ponytailed elves looks  back that the Rider, and nods toward  the Inn with  the Huge Frostgiant Blade hanging  above the  Porch roof, the  Blade is broken in half and had been placed  about  the  porch as both, the sign of  the INn, and a souvenir....

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg #25):

Praise Eta for such fourthought and planning. Falling instep beside the elf Yon Elftown be a wonder, to behold, wouldst such be an example of all Elftown...

Rolf's face takes on an expression of a ferel beast ready to sink his teeth into the soft underbelly of his foe.  <blueblue>"The tonight let us eat and drink and rest for tomorrow we make merry by carving the flesh from the bones of the catfolk."</blue>

  Ivy  Grins as  Rolf  spoke,Just remember, Cat folk have only 2 uses, for people like us..mating, and food...


 Drasius follows  along  as well, she  seems more relaxed inside the walls.

 Kree answers Justin, I havbe truely only seen one  other elven Village in the BlackTimber....I have seen one, in thr Ironwood  forest..neither are like this. mostly hidden amoung  trees , rocks  and Hillocks, relying on swamps and  ravines, or  streams  for protection...The walls  were added here, when we moved in..it has  proved it's worth, many times over.

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg #25):

Durzak eye gleam withh the mention of food and drink and then says,

Food and drink will surely hit the spot right now and then rest for tomorrow battle with the cats.

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg #25):

Duran nodded in acknowledgement when the elf the others called Kree looked his way and indicated where the warrior might find him later after his duties with the merchants were done. Then the he turned his attention back to the wagons. Things were going well for the merchants, most of their ingots had already been purchased. Now it was a matter of the buyers getting the wares they had bought off the wagons.

His trip with the merchants had been relatively un-eventful. The band of thieves that had hoped to take the wagons were unorganized and easily scattered after Duran had made it known they were not going to take the wagons without heavy losses.

Fighting off thieves and baby-sitting merchants was a far cry from being in the thick of battle with a company of men under your command. But that was over now, his days of glory serving King and Country left when he was stripped of his rank and honor. Now serving as a bodyguard or a hired sword was about all the work Duran could find to do.

  Two scouts that had met and questioned the fellow on the trade  roadlead him towards the   walls of the Village. they seemed uncaring as one wlaked in front, the other to the man's left side. Perhaps  they knew, if the man proved false, there  were more eyes on him, then just thiers.

 ..once  we enter the Gates? The captain of the watch will ask you a few questions, and then yhou will be allowed to roam the Village as you wish. I will ask though, what woulkd bring a lone Human down the traderoad of Razorhawk village?

"That is acceptable. As for why I'm here? The temple of Tra sent me here. The high priest believes I can do this land some good."

With gleaming platemail, a longsword at his side, a morning star at his other side, and a composite longbow slung over his shoulders, he seems too martial to be a priest. And he rode quite a noble steed on the way in.

Of course, if he was what he appeared to be, the chances of him proving 'false' were null & void.

   Once inside the gates, the  two scouts  melted into the trees  again.

   The  Watch Captain, a darkhaired Female elf in studded leather followed a  yuounger male  towards Luthien.  She looked him over, her   fingers moving a  ring that had a gem shaped like a Red  Arrow on it.

 Welcome to Razorhawk Village. I am Nara. The Captain of the Watch.  Goss  said Tra  sent you here? Do you know  why? Or is it ...but a feeling?

Luthien replied, "The high priest felt it was best for me to come. It is not for me to question his judgement, for he is closer to Tra then I."

Clearly a man who follows the priest's orders without question. Must have a lot of faith to do that. Particularly out in a land like this.

  Dismount  and  walk with me. the  guards will take  care of your mount. We have a small  Temple to tra here..the  two largest belong to Eta, and Neta...they are  side by side..near abouts...

"I thank you. I would speak with the priest here as soon as I may. Which direction is it?"

A small temple is good enough. With his efforts, it may well grow. That would also be to the good. Besides, the priest will know more of the village hereabouts

  with a slight edge in her Voice, the  elf-maid said, I said...walk with me.... she began to take them across the Village. A totem stood tall with the carving of a Razorhawk at the top...Names on tiles glows with a number next to them..some tiles..did not glow.

  in a small area Teenage  Huamns and Young  elves were  tring to train  young  Razorhawks..the smallish  Raptors, with the sharp Bone blade at the top of thier head, the  small creatures used them for fending off  enemies.

In reply to Luth (msg # 37):

He had already dismounted.

"My apologies." He chooses to reply in elven.

He walks along. Slowly, of course...the mighty plate he wears slows him down.

"They seem to do well with birds here. Also, why do some tiles glow while others do not?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:42, Fri 27 July 2012.

    Ther Razorhawk Village  is one of the two headquarters  for the Crimson Arrows. Though they  take on jobs  as  most Companies do, they also  Hunt the darkness..so..are very good at it...They are as ruthless as thier  prey...The lighted Tiles are those who still live..the dark tiles, are those  who have died, and thier Kills will be forever at that number.

 Nara  looks  at the Children,..The Razorhawk is  a samller form of hawk, it is very bright, and some who bound with  a Razorhawk, are  even able to talk with them...to an extent.....The hawks   gather in flocks  when they hunt, and take down pret  with thier  Bladed heads and  claws, thier beacks   finsh the job when the  prey is on the  bround...some...some very few..have been granted the used of  Razorhawk Bone crests to be used on weapons or arrow heads...it is  the highest honor, one of our Village  can meet.

  They walked  down the path and passted the  Temples of Eta and Neta..side by side with only 5 vyards or so between them. The temples were simple enough, but well Kept..ther was sign of painted galss windows here and there..that showed  both, managed to eanr some coin from thier followers.

 Finally they  arrived  at the  Temtple or Tra. it was just a bit smaller then the temples of  Eta and Neta, and  did have some comforts, but it appeared to be the "poor sister"..compared to the others.

 She opened the doors, and  an Older Human stood near  a stone alter..Above that alter  was the skull of one of the Great Lizards that roam thew  Forests and swamp...some other Creatures' heads ot antlers were on the surrounding walls.

 Priest? we have a follower of your god, who has travelled..far?  I should think....I will leave you to get aquainted.

"To hunt the darkness...that is my responsibility, as well. It has ever been so. But the balance of mercy and justice must never be forgotten."

He takes note of the customs concerning razorhawks. He can imagine those who are one with the wilderness bonding with them easily, but they are beyond his ken. He knows a little of them, though.

When he meets the priest, though, he switches back to common.

"Father. I've been on a long journey from the main temple to the south. I am at your disposal."

  The  Older  man comes  forward and  motions him over to  the passage that leads him into his quaters.. a samll well appointed   room with a fireplace. Hunting relics  are there as well..a Bow of Golden wood hands in the Claws  that bust have been a small dragon or  a big forest Lizard.

  ..My Name is  Brgan Bons..My family was amoung the first humans, who bonded with teh evles, to form the Village Bowshot..that lead to the building of Ironmound herself....Things are differant out this was.. The people in these lands have  hung onto the savageness of thier anscestors...Have you joined a Company as of yet?..If nay? You should consider teh Arrows, though the leader is a bit....bloodthirsty..he is beloved..at least  in this Village.

"Father, I am Luthien of Tra's Order of Knights. Bloodthirst has its place, but if I join him...it seems my task will be teaching him when justice is indeed the sword, and when justice is mercy. But first and foremost, it is my task to aid you and the temple when you see fit."

Mmmmm.

"Is it within the ways of justice and mercy to join him?"

  The man pours  some Elven Wine , rich gold in color,..this is Elven Gold. The best wines the  elves have to offer..a favoite of the Arrows....  he offers  Luth a toast,..To Tra and  her works....

  He takes a deep sip, then tops off his glass, offering , with a gesture, to top of Luthien's as well, as he says,..this Village was  betrayed by a halfling, who hailed from Laynak...born  on the this soil...yet..it sold out to humans and Cat folks, that work with the Res Isle Halflings, and the Red Elves from the  lands  south of this continent...Kree..the leader, and his  Cousin Ivy? They lost folks dear to them. Most folks hunt slavers anyway...bounty, Justice,even out of hopes  of finding loved ones. Those two...they hunt for all those  reasons...as well as... he shurgs,for them? it is  sport. Around these lands  you will come  across the moldering bodies of   slavers , impaled or staked to trees...Hunters  carve thier  rune into the  person's forehead or chest..as a warning to other  slavers and  dark folk...it works..to an extent...but those boys...do it while the  slaver is still alive...

  Once more the man shrugs,..it is hard to fault them...thier ways  put fear into  our foes, in a way , that even  the most rightious of us can never do..


  ..now then? as for a place to stay? I have  a building out back, there  are three  cots  back there, along with a chest..one might say, a miniature barracks. Yu may stay there at no cost, since you follow the  Hunter.. If that  does not seem pleasing? The Inn has room for  1 gold a week, plus what you spend on food.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:01, Fri 27 July 2012.

The wine. Luthien accepts the gift gratefully.

"To Tra!"

And he drinks, and it is sweeter for the toast.

"Hmm. I think, perhaps, I should go to them. I'll have to make them fully aware of what the Code means...but once they are aware, it is their choice to make. There is a danger to them on the inside. Many a good man has become as terrible as what he fights for lacking compassion. Perhaps it can be restored to them."

Luthien does not find fault, so much as he means to gently guide those who would work with him away from utter ruthlesness.

"It is my privilige and honor to stay at the Temple, Father."

Comfort is not his greatest concern.

  the  man smilesWell then..Your  mount is being cared for  by the Watch, if i am not mistaken. You may get your things, pick a cot and  light up the fireplace. in the mornign I have a short service for those who are going out into the filed, whether it  be for game to bring back to the Village...or if they Hunt darker prey.

"At once, Father."

He would've started the fire first, but his flint and steel are in his saddle bags. Thus, he must go to the Watch to retrieve his steed.

Once retrieved, he will stable the horse at the temple, or tie him to a post if there is no stable.

After caring for his mount, he'll light the fire for the old priest.

"It will be my pleasure to join you for the service. Will you join me in evening prayer?"

 The Older man smiles, Of  course, but  our  evening prayes will be held in the temple a bit after  sundown...i like to wish for all the hunters, who might be returning, that may want toi offer Tra thier thanks....


Thier is about 4 hours  until sunset.

"That is well. I can meet them when they return."

In the meantime, the young Knight spends his time maintaining his gear, and reciting some prayers. Not because he must, but because he WANTS to spend time with his Goddess.

 now  and again, a Villageer will come in. Asking the priest to bless his bow  or Javlins....thena bit later  another  will come in with a Haunch of Deer, or a pair of fish, or  a container of rabbit stew. and Give it to the Priest  as an offering to the Tra for thier luck in the hunt.

  Luth will note that two Younger  people. Dressed in older robes, with the mark of tra on them, are Given some of these offerings that are  cut and parceled out, for the two students to take to those families that might  be without food.

  The priest keeps just enopugh to feed himself, Luth and the two students.

Luthien expected no different. It is the province of Tra's faithful to accept only what offerings they need. The rest is best served going to whomever might need it.

When the young acolytes stay put long enough to talk to, Luthien introduces himself.

"I'm Luthien. My pleasure to meet you two."

 The two Human boys  nod thier greeting , the taller one  says,I am Kra Lorfield...this one is Mio Handsmen..we are elarning the ways  of  Both  the Hunter..and our Goddess..we hope to do her proud  as we get older.

 Mio nods  , the shorter boy seems a bit shy.

Luthien nods encouragingly.

"You already do her proud. Soon, you will feel her blessings the way Father does...or perhaps, if it is in you, even the way I do."

If either of them seems suited for the Knightly calling, he'll make a note of it. Even the shy one may find the Call. It depends on how he grows.

   The Boys smile   then move to a back section of the Building were they have two little cots  set up, near the back door.

  Brgan enters  with a pot of stew and places it on the old wooden table. He leaves  and returns  with a jug of wine, and  Glasses, as well  a ...still warm...loaf  of bread.

  Come Boys...Come  Luthien..Tra provides, and we cannot let such gifts go to waste....  he smiles  as he  sits at the table  putting four bowls and wooden spoons out. The boys rush to the table...but stop to allow Luthien to sit first.

Luthien takes his place at the table.

"Would you like to say the prayer, Father, or shall I?"

The table may be set, but he will say his prayer of gratitude first.

  The priest  smiles,Please...it is not often i have some one else to say the words...

"Tra, we worship you and we thank you. We eat according to your bounty, and live according to the Hunt. May your grace be in this our food, and with us in the future."

  The  other  Three  answer " Praise Tra"..and the old priest Dishes out  full bowls of stew, while the youngest cuts the Bread into slices, and the oldest pours  wine for all of them., Brgan  Moves  to his  quarters  and  returns witha crock that is cold, Chruned  butter is in the Crock...Our Dwarven frined  made storage places  for most of the homes...stone and into the ground. Ice from spell casters, or from stored after winter, keeps  things cold..makes out  food last a bit longer...

 ..So Luthien? These  fine yong men followered Tra, as they were brought here by thier parents..they listened to what i have said , of Tra, and chose to be a Cleric of out  goddess...what made you follow the Hunter's  path?

Luthien smiles, and begins to tell his story.

"My father was...not completely of this world. Indeed, only half belonged here, and the other half of him belonged in heaven, in Tra's celestial army. Still, he fell in love with a priestess here in the mortal plane, and so I came into existence. A Knight himself, my father taught me the ways of Knighthood. Even though I cannot fly as he does, I have become a Knight in my own right. And now, I follow our mistress, even as my father does.

So I continue the family tradition of service, Hunting darkness where I find it, and providing for those who cannot."

He eats slowly, and politely, for he has a story to tell between bites.

..that is  a fine story..what skills have you, that mortals may not?  the old Priest asks, the Boys  eat and watch Luthien with interest...

Luthien shakes his head notably.

"Mostly, I've inherited my father's strength. I have some defensive gifts...sometimes, magic doesn't work on me. And heat and cold never bothered me much. I can see in the dark, and it's not easy to sneak up on me. I grew up with the language of Heaven...and my father saw to it I knew the languages of the Baatezu and Tanar'ri. If fiends walk here, I will be well prepare for them."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:12, Sun 29 July 2012.

  ..Fiends? I should hope not! But one never knows in these Realms. And the City of Harte is as dark and evil as the  lands of the Red Elves....right now? we are more in the  process, ofmaking the lands of Ironmound safe for those who libe and trade here...But the on Going  war with the Red Isles, and the constant threat of the Red Elves, along with a nomral enemies...well..we have our plates quite full..indeed!

  The BOys listend and Luthien could see they were partly impresed...and partly worried about this new fellow's backround...

"Preparing for fiends doesn't mean fiends will approach. However, the dark priests that watch over the slavers could still summon one. Or make a contract with one. There isn't much I'd put past those who'd willingly enslave others. I can guess, though, that slavers are more likely to ask the help of the Baatezu. The denizens of Hell appreciate slavery more then do the inhabitants of the Abyss."

Mmmmm.

"The evil that men do is often as bad or worse then that done by fiends, for men could've chosen otherwise. Have to start with what we can do here, now, rather then borrowing trouble."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:55, Mon 30 July 2012.

..well..we can only hope  we can kill enough of them, beofre the  stoop to calling on such beings.

  The  Kids looked at the HAlf  full pot of Stew, the priest  waved to the pot,well boys? Would you waste Tra's gifts?  a smile crept to his face, as the Older  boy filled thier bowls.

 ..you too, Good Luthien...be easier to clean the pot, if  i did not have to throw any of it out. he buttered  another slice  of  bread, and Dipped it in the  gravey as he  reilled all of thier wine glasses.

"Kill...is one option. Tell me, since you've been here...have any of the slavers ever repented of their path?"

Killing may be the only option if no.

"Wasting is not acceptable, of course."

And he helps himself to another full bowl. It's better fare then cooked meat off an animal he just killed, and less wasteful to boot.

  The Old Priest shakes his ehad   saddly,oh...they all repent when the Hunters beat them down...the swearnever to take  slaves again....we made the mistake of letting them go..we branded them..on the left shoulder..we told them, it was to protect them from future Hunters...but in truth? it was a death Penalty..if a slaver was caugth a second time...you would be surprised..how many have went back on thier word...

 ...some of  our  Unit  Commanders, do not even offer quarter....I find it hard to argue...these people have  killed men and women and children..split  families, to were those who were left behind, do not know...might never know..the fate of thier loved ones..to grant them a second chance?...That seems  as foolish as it does disrespectful to our people...

  The oldest Grins,..Lord Quickshadow does not waste time in such a way..if he spares  Slavers..it's to bring them here  for Judgement!

 DO NOT!....  the words  burst forth,the Brgan calmed,..do not give him the title Lord..he is  but a commander of a Unit of Arrows...

 The oldest  straightens abit,..he brought back my mother....for that? I see him as what he is...what he himslef calls the Arrows...

 The Old man nods  and Looks to Luthien,..This elf...His cousin..a drowess..A dawrf, who recuirts in Ironmound..they are the most...vicious of the  Arrows....more then once, it was pointed out to him..that the vengence that corses through his viens..might turn him as dark as those he Hunts....His answer to this?  he  motions to the Older boy.

  Kra  lifts his head up Proudly,he says...they are the fire..that fights the fire....

 Mio says with a mouth full of  bread,and...leave no live enemies behind you!

  Bragn sits back and takes a dip sip of his wine,..and Thus, Good Luthien....the name the Razorhawks and the Village  carries now...it is  a double edged  blade, for those who fear us...might feel it wise to strike at us.....I have had no success...in trying to  ease these particular Arrows''s Bloodlust....

"We shall see if I have better luck with it. To work with me long term, they'll have to temper their bloodlust. I will do my best to make it worth their effort to do so."

As for fighting fire with fire...

"Fighting fire with fire leaves the whole world scorched. Consider the forests. If you burn them down, the animals within must move on, and then there's nothing to hunt. The whole village starves. No matter how many slavers might be in the forest, it is not worth the price of the forest to burn them out."

He nods, though, at Father Bragn.

"That is my current fear with the Arrows as you describe them. If they are working with a drow...It doesn't take much effort to guess Lloth would be well pleased with the sort of bloodlust you describe. It is a slippery slope, and the Gods of the Dark know it well. A mortal on a path to Darkness has trouble turning back...and it's been known where such vicious defenders start, say, demanding tributes from those they 'protect.'"

   ..The elf's own father tries to reason with him..Ironmound tolerates  a headquarters  inside the city itself..only because of the fame they have  earned as slayers of  slavers...it is  said, That The elf cousins and thier firneds   give much attention to Eta  and  Neta...the elves believe, by giving each side of Luck thier due? That the sister goddesses will smile on them...I cannot agrue the point..for they still live...  he chuckles at his own joke.

"Trusting to luck may have worked so far. And for keeping one's body alive, luck may indeed be what they need. Unfortunately, Luck will not save their souls. Good fortune has little to do with ethics, for it can grace slavers as easily as it does the Arrows."

Luthien can see, even through that second bowl of stew, he'll have to REALLY show his worth to nudge the Arrows away from their brutality.

 ..well..not  all the Arrows are blessed...as many die as join sometimes...though..truth be told, those Arrows who have other leaders, seem to have less turn overs...

"I would've expected no different. The further away they get from the ideals they started with, the more disillusioned those who join him expecting him to keep those ideals become."

Luthien bows his head, and finishes his second bowl of stew.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:25, Mon 30 July 2012.

  Aye, Kra, I cannot deny that....and..well  the Cat Folk have little in the way of mercy in them....perhaps? It is  Just the   Goddess in me, that sees the extra kiling as  a dark thing. Kra  frowns  a bit,..they have brought mor epeople back, then  any othe r company..Crimson Arrows, or  not....there are alot of people they bring back..stay, and Join the Village...

  The old Man frowns  a bit. He reaches over  and gives the older boy a pat on the head, the Younger one's eyes dart from person to person his mouth full of Stew.

"Cat folk? What do we know of these...catfolk? Are they lycanthropes, Rakhasa, or something else again?"

If he's going to work here, the Catfolk are likely going to be one of his major opponents. Best to learn now.

  The old man refills the wine  glasses again, the younger boy smiles  as he drink from his clay mug, his bright eyes peering over the rim.

 ..just as humans have  many races...within thier  Race? So are the Cat folk..differant types...some  inclined to use of magic..they see most humans  as slaves  or food..they strive  for  coin and power..and  claim these lands  that  Ironmound  and her allies have carved out..they work with slavers, and most any foe  of us....thought? I should think they just hate those who are not CAts..

Rayna stepped uneasily into the temple holding a small object in her hands, keeping her head low and tried not to look at anyone within. She made her way to the shrine then knelt before placing the small object on the alter. She then looked up to the sky saying a silent prayer while pulling a small vile of blue liquid from her sleeve. As she opened the vile she looked down and poured the liquid over the small idol which instantly burst into blue flames and disintegrated She then poured some in the alters offering bowl. nothing happened and Rayna didn't look surprised either. She only capped the vile and placed it back under her sleeve before standing and walking out of the temple.

"I see. That's tragic in itself. It means you'd have to change their entire culture for them to see a different place. But tell me about their fighting style. I'd expect them to be agile, fine climbers, with excellent night vision."

Then, pause...

"Did you hear something?"

He listens again.

"A prayer, I think. Allow me, Father."

Luthien comes out from the back, and approaches the main temple, where he finds an elven woman praying.

"Tra's blessings be with you."

Luthien, at the moment, was still wearing that heavy full plate, and as such, was easy to hear coming.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:54, Mon 30 July 2012.

 The Horns  within the  Village sound, in the wee hours of the Morning, A Young elven scout  runs through the agtes  as they Open.HUNTERS RETURN!....WITH FREED FOLKAND PRISONERS!

  There  are  whistles Blown  and the sounf ot  the Waych getting ready. archers  man the walls  the whole way around, as well as a Dozen in the  square, ready, in case this is a trap.....

Rayna looked back at Luthien and gave a polite smile. "And to you as well sir." She looked him over a bit, his shining armor and weapons, only causing her to shake her head amusingly. "Do you need to wear such silly armor? An enemy would see you as the first target to shoot at. And my people especially would find honor in plucking a man in such armor from his stead."

Luthien smiles at that.

"The armor protects me, as armor is meant to do. It is not just protection, however. Those who see it mostly recognize it as a symbol of hope. At least, those who know of Tra's Knights and what they stand for may find it so. And to that end, it serves also as heraldry. Your people may be able to pick me off, but I should hope they'd recognize what I stand for and choose not to."

With an added chuckles, "Besides, it's more reliable than magic."

"And what do you stand for?" she asked with a raised brow. "Also, how is it more reliable then magic? How do you know My magic isn't as strong as metal?"

"The Knights, to those who know, stand for justice, order, and righteousness. Our code is strict enough that very few who knew us would fire on us."

He drops the teasing, though, seeing as it's being taken wrong.

"I don't. Your magic will eventualy become unrivaled by anything but a high priest. But I don't know where you are on your path."

Rayna crossed her arms and stared at the man. "Not much honor involved in those qualities." She then grinned. "Not much to keep my people from plucking at you, as far as my magic and my paths, They are my own to think over." She mused at him.

   Dras enters the Gate first followed by the rest. Clerics and healers rush to check the   freed slavers... The Elders  came to see what wasbeing brought in.

  Ivy made the Leader and the two slavers drop down to their  knees.. Kree and  Garme  are the last to enter..the Gates close.

"Then I shall have to trust to my lady's wisdom in such matters. Surely not all among you would kill one in armor simply to say they did?"

Mmmmm.

"Well, that aside, have you a place to stay? As a member of the faith, I can stay here as the priests do, but the inn may serve you."

"There would be no honor in simply killing you because of your armor. You would have to provoke my people into fighting, and if you were the only one is such armor, then you would be dead. But not without a fight of course. My people are what most would say as barbarian to most 'civilized' cultures. So your honor is much different then ours." She took in a deep breath with another smile then continued to answer him. "I have been in this village for a day before you arrived, so I stay at the Inn." Rayna then turned as the group entered the village. "It looks like my escort has just arrived."

"That is well, for I am not one to provoke people without cause. The Code we follow is fairly strict. And if your honor is different, I would like to take the time to learn how it works, when time for such permits."

Hmmm. Upon looking out the front doors.

"So it seems. Let us go to meet them, for I have not yet done so."

Once inside the gate, only a half step are so behind Drasius, Rolf steps to the side and lets the rest pass.  He's had enough of marching with live slavers at his back.  Worse if they'd been catfolk of course, but bad enough anyway.

He watches the others troop in, keeping a careful eye on the captives.

  One of the Young Sages  who care for the totem, runs Up to Ivy, who pointsto Kree. The  Lad moves to  Kree and takes a slate from the  pocket of his robes. Kree speaks to him and watches  as the  boy writes on the slate....

  Krell and The Captain of the Watch , come down from the path that leads to Krell's Home.His Voice  is stern, yet there  seems to be   some Pleasure in it,..Who causes  all this Noise at this hour!

 Nara Calls out to the Team..MAke YOu Report, so the Village may go back to thier beds!

  Ivy smiles  as He says aloud in a playful tone,..and Perhaps?  I may Join you?

  The  Elfmaid tries to look unphased, but there is a twinkle in her  eye,..Ivyain? What Maid here would  wish you to follow her  to her bed?

 There are several cheers from the  growing  Crowd and she shakes her head...Kree? Your  report ...please...

  Kree pats ther sage on the shoulderand the LAd  runs straightaway, towards the totem, two more sages  join him as the move the ladder to the totem...If  My count is right  we have slain 14 slavers...these three surrendered..the  ugliest one os the leader...I brought him back to be quested..Either by you...  then he points to Dras,..or by Dras....

  Krell steps up and Looks at the Leader....what is you name, creatures?

    I am Lerves....I am from the  Iron Blood Company from Harte....

 Uncle? He is  one of the Unit leaders, who lead the Great RAid....

 Krell looks to Ivy, then  to Kree..both nod to him..Looked the  Halfogre in the eye , even though the creature is on his Knees, he  is still head level with Krell,..Then Lerves....You will be asked alot of questions...first of all...where you the group that took my daughter?

 Lerves Looks Up and chuckles,no..but  i wish  my group did...I hear she loves to pleasure them before they go to bed..she really Likes the orcs i think..she...  There is hardly a sound as Kree takes three quick steps to the  Halfogreand Backhands the thing across the mouth the HAlf Ogre nearly falls sideways  but manages to Keep from falling Over...NAra  and a Human Guard  Grab Kree and Pull him back.....Easy,  Death Elf..he will spread no more lies....

 The Hate for  Kree shows in the HAlf-ogre's eyes  as the Blood drips down from a split lip...his other wound have left him weaker then he should be,,,what makes you think they are lies?

  Struggling to Hold Kree, with the Guard, NAra  says,..she was the Watch Captain before  me....her name is  well on the  totum's list....

  Krell frowned,ENOUGH!...Kree..YOu and  Dras have earned this ...I  and NAra  will come with yuou to the  Post of Questions...  he looks at Lerves and says...there? you will answer questions   as Dras and Kree ask them....it will be your choice..answer truthfully and Live....answer falsely..then we will have to ask..more harshly.... or...Dras will make certain you answer  every thing we ask...though...when the Drowess is finished..you will be dead...or..wish you were...

  ..These two? take them to the Blackspit  and have slave collars put on...They will slave for us..until we deiede to question them...

 Well done Arrows....Kree Ivy, Dras...Take your peopleto the Inn for  eat and Drink, while the HAlf Ogre is made ready...I will see you at  nthe Post of Questions in one hour...

 as  4 guards  Grab the Halfogre he turns to Kree,..I won't answer anything for you....

  Kree chuckles   a cold  Chuckle,oh..aye..you will....and if i fail to make you talk..Dras will make certain that you do.....

Dras Calls to the nearest children after the front gate closes and tossed each of them a coin with a smile. "Give them to your parents." she said to them as she fallowed Kree and the other. As she waited for them to finish talking to the prisoner she grins taking her place beside the Half ogre, placing her hand on his worst looking burn and gripped hard. "And I am more blood thirsty then Lord Kree."

Durzak tells the rest of the party he will meet then at the inn for the eat and drinks, he is dropping off his gear and clean up before heading to the inn.

In reply to Village (msg # 87):

As the others set off Justin stretches to loosen some of the tightness of his muscles. Taking a deep breath and savouring the morning light on his face. Turning he heads to the temple of Eta to give thanks.  Entering the temple he deposits a number of coins in the collection box, moves quietly to a pew and undertakes prayers of thanks.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:17, Thu 02 Aug 2012.

Luthien, at this point, has become more then a little curious.

He looks out of the Temple of Tra, and sees quite the commotion outside.

"Quite the gathering out here."

  The Half Ogre is hauled off  after he grimeaces  abit as Dras's 'loving touch ' on one of his burns.

   The Yonng  Sage  Call Kree over to the totem so he can see the work being done. Two elfmaids  come hustling over  shly , each offers him a  Mug of  wine  He takes them both with a bow  of thanks, then hands one tgo Dras. The Girls  take off giggling.

  Ivy comes over  and asks,..hey? where's mine?

dras grins as she takes the cup and puts it close to her lips. "They went that way." she laugh pushing out her mug towards the maids before taking a drink.

Rayna looks back to Luthien. "Yes, They are the most prized group of this village. some say that they are half gods because they never come home a man short and with even more people to fill the village." She starts off towards Kree and Dras near the totem. "I sense no god-likeness in them."

Upon reaching Kree and dras she bows to them. "Hello good sir elf, my name is Rayna. I have come to this village for an escort to Ironmound." She paused and looked at the two. "I was told to seek you out for the job by your elders, so here I am."

Luthien sees the group of Arrows...including the Drow.

And...concentrates for a moment.

   Kree  is  chuckling as  Ivy frowns and Dras grins.The Voice  has he and Ivy turn,well met, Good LAdy...Unless we have no pressing business.. I am sure my friends would not mind a trip to Ironmound, it has been awhile , scime  we saw a dwarven friend there...

  Ivy looks the woman over, a slight  smile Creeps to his  face..he feels a Tug on his claok and turns..and sees no one, Unlit he looks  down and see a 5 year ould human girl there...she has both arms wrapped  around  a claymug of wine... Ivy smiles  as he crouches down and take the  mug, he smiles at the girl,well..at least some one knows  how to treat a hero in this town!

 He gives her  a Kiss on top the ehad  and she points towards the Inn..standing there are two women who Brought the   mugs out to Kree and Dras..the laugh and enter the  Inn.. Ivy grins,..I should walk this little one back tot he Inn....

 Kree shakes his   head, Be on yhour way...the questioning might go on well into the  afternoon...

  Ivy waves to his  friends, and  Bows  slightly to Rayna with a wink..he ehads off with the little girl who takes his hand  skipping with a smile..

  Turning to  Rayna again,Kree says...we have to....talk..to the slaver.... I would  guess you are staying in the Village?..we will see you off  and on...once our task is completed, we can see about escorting you...

  One of the freed slaves.. a boy about  16 or so. still carries a shortsword and dagger he took from the spoils  of the slavers...the other weapons thjat were  unclaimed are being taken to the blacksmith to have checked  and added to the Village arsenal. ..Sir..Quickshadow..My famiies fasrm was destroyed...who might  i see about living here?

   go to the Commander of the watch..he will take your name, and set you up for a place to live for now, your tasks  will be to help the village while you undergo training, then..if you wish..you can Join the ranks of the Hunters...  the Boy smiles and nods, heading towards the main gate to get signed up.

Rolf is pleased when Kree and Drasius finally head off with the captive.  He didn't care much for the fate of the slaver and talking about how they were to treat him might be an effective tactic to soften him up, but Rolf perfered action over words and had grown a bit weary at the unveiled threats that were voiced.

Rolf opts to head over to the tavern, thinking a good, hot meal and a mug of ale would go down right proper.  Hitching up his backpack and resettling the scabbard across his back, he puts action to thought and heads that way.

Luthien, for his part, steps forward now. With his shining full plate, and various edged weapons. and Tra's holy symbol...he approaches.

"I wish to speak to you about your operations here. I could be of help to you, if we can work within the Code."

That to Kree, as he seems to be leading the group. He sensed what was going on...and it's essentially what Father Bragn said. People trying to do what they thought necessary, but going too far now and then.

Rayna glanced at Ivy, taken back by his presence and stared at him some what emotionless as he heads towards the Inn. Her attention turns back towards Kree and Dras with a bow after Kree speaks. "Then I shall wait for your return and personally request an audience as soon as your group come together." She bows again to them before looking back towards Luthien then heads for the Inn herself.

Having settle his gear and cleaning up a bit, Durzak heads to the inn when he remembers that he hadn't stop at the temple of Eta and Neta to pray and thank the goddess. Durzak heads over to each of the temples and offers some coins at the collection box and offer a pray of thanks to each of the goddess. After Durzak has finish with each of the temples he heads over to the inn and get him something to eat and drink.

Dras looked the woman over. Nothing more then a common run of the mill wizard. She thought to herself. Only giving a light bow back to the woman before she left. Her attention moved to Luthien and listened to him, rolling her eyes as he spoke. Something about him made her skin crawl and she didn't like it. "Kree love, we must go. I must have a chance to make the prisoner talk." She tried not to sound irritated but it was very hard at the moment.

In reply to Durzak Glorgrim (msg # 100):

After finishing his devotions and thanks giving’s Justin seeks out a priest intending to see the items from the evil assassin are destroyed appropriately. He notes Durzak enter to pray, nodding at the arrow appreciatively, motioning for Durzak to wait for him, after he'd given thanks.

In reply to Justin (msg # 102):

When Durzak see Justin at the temple of Eta and see that Justin want him to wait for a moment after he offer a prayer, he wait for Justin.

In reply to Durzak Glorgrim (msg # 103):

Joining Durzak, he smiles again Well done comrade Dwarf   indicating his prayers Shallst we to the tavern anst toast our endeavours, enjoy a fine repast and list unto a merry tune.

  Kree bowed to Rayna,we shall see you then..I am not hard to find....

  Turning to Luthian . Kree  finishes his mug  in one Gulp and  places the Mug on one of the  stone benches  by the totem, Kree's smile  is wide as he appears  to be trying not to laugh,..we can always use  help...but the code  we live by is that of  The Arrows. Those gods  who do not find fault with than, recieve our  prayers..and our following...The god that you follow..smiles on most Hunters...

In reply to Justin (msg # 104):

Durzak smiles and replies, "That would be good fellow comrade".
This message was last edited by the player at 23:07, Thu 02 Aug 2012.

  The Priest will look at the items and test them if Justin wishes...

In reply to Justin (msg # 107):

Thanking the priest. Being symbols of an evil deity, he feels there is no need to test them, suggesting they best be destroyed.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:08, Thu 02 Aug 2012.

"Indeed she does. I do have some rules most people don't have, but I'm sure I can...be of value. Would you like to discuss it now, or later?"

But there's still a few things to go over.

  Kree's  smile waivers only  a moment,   Good Dras and I , need to speak with the HAlf Ogre...once that talk is done, we will return to the Inn...we will see you there..I am certain...

  One of the guards  come running down and shouts,..Quickshadow? They require your....experiste.

  Kree grins, as he truens  and waves to the guard,..what say you Dras..who goes first..you or I?...I have a dull knife that would  work pretty well...

Hmmmmm. If he goes with Kree, he might want to...

"I'll see you at the inn, then."

Rayna went that way, and he can learn more on the way.

Dras didn't say nothing, she only gave Kree a pat on the shoulder and a wink before running off towards where the guard came from.

She turned around holding her mug up in the air. "You coming?"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:04, Fri 03 Aug 2012.

  Kree makes his way across the Square. to the path that leads to his cabin...he stops for a moment to see if the totem is right, he allows the two sages on duty to take a swig of  the wine.

  Near the Totem, the Two Slavers who were collared..where chained to a post, while awaiting whatever ruling was going to come down..One of them hails Kree,you?...I had to  work for them, lest they take my own family as slaves.... hhis voice   was pleading..the other  slave just looked at Kree.

  The Elf  said, in a cold tone,..So?  YOu chose to ruin other people's lives, so that your family would nto suffer?..Where do yhou think your wife is..right now? or your children?..most likely , pleasuring the very person who hired you...you made your choice....now..you pay for it...I feel no sorrow for you...

  The man cried out in anguish as he thought  about his family, Kree, smile. grew  just a bit, as he headed up the path.

After a peaceful nights rest Justin rose for his regular predawn devotions; once these were completed he gave additional thanks to Eta  Following this he undertook his training regimen, bathed, dressed and ventured forth to meet the others at the gate before first light.

Good morrow all, such beith another fine day in whicheth to renderth praise unto Eta

This message was deleted by the player at 14:35, Wed 08 Aug 2012.

Luthien was also up in the morning. He did his devotions, then warmed up for the day. There would be heavy fighting today. He slept in the Temple of course.

He also told Father Bragn that Commander Kree had agreed to at least TRY the charm strategy. He knew if he told the priest before he prayed for spells, he could be ready for Luthien's great 'no torture' experiment.

His mount was also ready to go, and he was bathed, shaved, and dressed by the time he arrived.

"The Hunt begins. Only my lady knows how it ends."

  Kree stood by a  small fire that the guards  used to ward off  the early morining  chill. He was speaking to Nara who had a  leather sacthel by her  feet. she was going on about something...Kree was just nodding his head as he was taking arrows  out of a crate, and  looking at the fletchings and the  arrowheads...putting some in his  quiver, and some off to the side...

Luthien was surprised to see nobody else brought a horse.

They must not be suited for this kind of work, so he takes his horse back to the temple and ties it up.

While used to hunting, this Hunt is different, and he must trust to the experience of those who've done it.

Rayna came out of the inn looking well rested, she had spent most of the night listening to Ivy tell his stories and just enjoyed his company til he passed out in her room. She was shaking her head with a smile as she mad her way towards the group. She gave them a smile and bows to them before checking her supplies. She had a small hand size book tied to her belt next to her dagger on her right hip, and a small pouch of materials next to her money purse on her left. She wore the new golden and emerald crested arrow clipped to her cloak. "Your cousin is still passed asleep in my room at the in Lord Kree." She tells him with the smile again. "He seems to like telling his tales doesn't he?"

  Kree looked Up A Rayna, and Nara  frowned  a bit, looking the elf-mage Up and down.

  Nara?  Please  to send one of your guards to Get Ivy?....And they need not be overly gentle...

  Nara's  Green eyes narrow a bit  and she nods to a Human at the Gate, the fellow sprints to the Inn.

 ..so he told you tales?  Good Lady...I hope  he did not overly bore you...

.. a good  10 minutes later Ivy, a bit  cleaned up   and  dragging his  pack and Quiver His bow on his shoulder... He Looks at teh Human  guard who has a smirk on his face,..Really..Cousin? I would have caught up with you?

 ..Then...Dear Cousin...i have saved you some  exertion....thus...yuou will be able to  ply the Good  Lady with more stoires.... he motions to the crate,Pick out  a fresh 24 , be fore we leave...

  Ivy frowns  as he   walks over to the   crate, Kree was shouldering his  Quiver, Nara  looked at Ivy and  shook her head,one of these  days, Kree? Your cousin will get you killed...

 ...he still stands  as the second best archer in the Village....

 Ivy holds  UP his hand,..Best archer...Cousin...

  Kree gives him a playful whack  on the head  as he walks by,..against targets..Aye..but when it comes to brining Death?..You are  short , but not  by much...

  He looks towards the Village, awaiting the others.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:48, Tue 07 Aug 2012.

"What, or who, do we expect to be hunting? I will do better if I know what I'm up against, and what tactics they're likely to use."

After all, nobody hunts stag without having a fairly good idea about how a stag will react in any given circumstance.

In reply to gate (msg # 120):

Justin looks around the group who appear to all, less Drasius, Rolf and Garme, be here Shall we press on Captain Kree
This message was last edited by the player at 22:02, Wed 08 Aug 2012.

Drasius came out of her cabin wearing her black leathers and spider silk cloak. Her face was covered by a wrap of thin spider silk to prevent any exposure to the sun. While in this outfit, it seemed that Dras remained quiet. She wouldn't greet anyone of the group say for a nod to any who said anything to her. Dras made her way next to Kree and leaned on a tree with her arms crossed.

 ...as we start out, Our  Goal is to reach ironmound  and  gety one opf the smaller ships  we have taken. we wil sail down to Olant, and there,,we  we travel up the Furman's Chain..to see the nest of slavers there. They should not be too hard to find, the Towns of the  Furman's Chain are allied  with Ironmound...

      He points  Northward and says,However, we  will be  crossing  the Grasslands  as we travel, so one might not know, what one will run into. Should  we  find  and odd group of Bandits, and the like, we  will break off to hunt hem down...we never pass up at chance to cut some dark folk from the lands of the living...

 we will give the others  a few more  Minutes, then be off....

"Understood. I'll request a debrief on standard tactics and how teamwork among your unit usually goes on the way."

Luthien expects the team to work as a fairly organized unit, and his request for a debrief reflects that.

This message was deleted by the player at 18:24, Tue 07 Aug 2012.

Rolf comes in from the far side of the village.  He'd gotten up early and had spent some time on the skirts of the village, wanting a bit of time to himself before coming back for good meal.  Geared up and ready to head out, he catches Kree's briefing on where they're headed.  "Any catfolk in the Furman's Chain area?" he asks bluntly.

  ..Unkown, Good Rolf...But the Catfolk fight toooth and nail for dominance of the grasslands....I would bet there would be some with the slavers...but ..i cannot  say for certain.

"Shall we depart, then?"

It seemed they still waited for someone.

Rayna shook her head at Luthien. "The short one still has not come up from his slumber." She looked over to Dras then to Kree as he spoke. All these new people she will be traveling all seemed so familiar to her, like seeing a dream come to pass. Even the very spot she stood was familiar to her.

After a good night rest, Durzak ready his gear ready to travel. He heads to pay a visit to the temples of Eta, Neta, Tra and Trall to offer up a prayer for the upcoming journey and amy future outcome coming from the journey, than he heads to the main gate ready to be off. When he gets to the gate he replies to everyone, "Good morning".

 Seeing thier  Dwarven Comrade arriving, Kree points to the satchel By Nara's FeetThere  are  4 Healing Potions in that stachel, Justin  and Luthien take  two each to carry. We have a bit of  a hike ahead, so ...let us get  started, Ivy and I will take the Point, the rest stay together , at least until we hit the grasslands.

 The  Gate  Opens, NAra nods to Kree, Good  Hunting....

  Ivy and Kree Jog out  ahead a bit, as the others  flow out the gate.

"Understood."

He takes the two, and moves out with the team.

Durzak follows the rest of the party thorough the gate.

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 132):

Praise Eta for such bounty. Be any of Thee still carrying injuries from our skirminsh he asks collecting the potins he secures them safely in his belt pouch.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:46, Wed 08 Aug 2012.

    The Day was waning, the storm Had  Come up, well and hard..Those who lived in the Mounbtains were getting the  worse of it, it would seem..but for the   lone wagoner. it was not a great deal of Fun, either.

  A Courier From the  Elven  Village of  the Razorhawk Clan, had  stopped and spoke with the  wagoner. He Pointed towards the Black Timber  forest, as a way to escape the  rising storm.

  and Hour or so had PAssed, the  Hugh Trees of the Black Timber caused the darkening skies  to be even DArker, the PAth lead into the MAw of the forest, much like that, or a Leaf  filled tunnel.

   some 6 elevs stepped out of the Forest, a female Elf with a Gold Helmet walked towards the wagoner  with no fear...of course, the other  6 elves had Bows  aimed at the fellow.

 ..Greetings, You are about to enter  the Balck Timber Forest, Home of the Razorhawk Elves...do you travel  for Business..or pleasure...  her Voice was  devoid of inflection, as if she did this dozens  of times a day. Her cloak was wrapped  around her, But the Point of her Blade  could be seen peeking out.

Krelgoth’s face is drawn and tense, as if he expects the elves to fire on him at any moment. He curses himself under his breath for letting himself get cornered, silently to his reckoning yet loud enough for Elven ears to hear even at shooting distance.

Krel dismounts from his white Clydesdale steed, a mountain of a man compared to the slender She-Elf. He gives an awkward but whole-hearted bow. He is a grim figure with long dark hair and a clean shaven face. His splint mail is worn and scarred, and it fits poorly, exposing more rippled bronzed flesh at his thighs than he would care for. Krel wares a fur lined pot helmet with a horn on either side, and a freakishly broad and heavy looking bastard sword in a half sheath strapped to his back with a thick ratty wolf hide strip.

“Business.” Krel speaks in an accent that is difficult to place, with the dead pan monotone of one who is not quite fluent in the common tongue. He speaks loudly though, and with the confidence of a practiced soldier under pressure. “I am Krelgoth, Son of Lothgar. I come from faraway lands, bearing fine textiles, and exotic spices for trade. I have come to do commerce with your people.”
This message was last edited by the player at 14:12, Mon 02 June 2014.

  The  Captain nodded  as her eyes shift towards the goods,..that is Good, we like to trade with  outside the Forest..though, it seems HUmans tend  to forget about us, unless they need  slaves...or some one top fight slaves....

 Pointing to the  2 nearest Escort him to the Village....  She turns  to him and waves to his Wagon,..enjoy your stay...

The large Barbarian mounted his equally large steed again and rode on. He experienced a modicum of relief as he nodded grimly toward the Elf on one flank, and then the other. While he could not completely drop his guard, He at least had an escort that seemed legitimate enough to him. He had a good meal, a hot bath, and a warm bed to look forward to. This pleased him immensely.

Krel had been alone on the road for weeks or months, he wasn’t sure. He had eaten only pickled fish and figs and was dangerously exposed the elements, and to attack during the long ride; the sort journey that wares on a man’s mind. More than once during his travels, he’d had to fend off petty bandits and the like, and he was truly lucky that he hadn’t run into anything that he wasn’t equipped to handle. Krel struggled to keep his mind in the moment, warding off wandering thoughts of what fresh fruits and spirits the mysterious Elves would have to offer.

    they entered the  forest, it was much darker then outside, the storm had finally come after showing the promise   at the Mountains   to the North and west.

  Looking back the  rain came down in curtains, the Captain  and her guards  vanished into the Trees..rain still managed to  drip down through the Canope , but  no where near as hard   as outside the forest.

  The two elves  walked in slience until  the one on the right, another Female Looked Up at the rider,..you have been Lucky, Human. I single  fellow with a cart of good?..The Cat Folk should have taken you weeks ago....

 There was a Young Male  elf on the Left,..Not Likely, Not this Close to  The Black Timber...They Fear  The Crimson Arrows...

 Shaking her Head, the  Female  says,at best?...they respect them, I do not think the Cat Folk know to fear anyone... then she laughs a Musical laugh as she Points with her Bow to a pair of   Skeletons that  are Pinned to a dead Tree By rusty daggers...Now Slavers....they  fear them...

 As the   move past the  Bodies, Kreloth can see one skeleton has been there Longer then the other...

Krel considered what the elves had to say for a moment before replying, “It is the duty of the slave, to slay his masters if he can, and grasp his freedom with his own two hands. This I know well.” As he spoke, Krel unbuckled and removed the bracer on his left forearm and extended it to reveal the scars of slave, left behind by heavy iron shackles.

“And as for the Cat-Men…” Krel paused for a moment thoughtfully. “A wise merchant once told me this. ‘Without risk, there can be no reward’. Words that ring true for merchant and sell-sword alike.” With that, Krel gave a curt nod, a gesture used by his tribe to signify that he was done speaking, as interrupting a warrior had been a strict taboo in his culture.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:35, Mon 02 June 2014.

  The Female  Nods, I thought held   by most peoples of Laynak. But...we have one who brings the  darkness back, upon those who served it . To aid those, who cannot aid themselves. ....

 The Male  breaks In,Aye, Fierce he is, and those whom he travels with,But  even his Own Father does not like, the death that befalls  those who fallow him. A Waste of Life....

 She snaps Back,...mind your Tongue,  Elder Krell  was once a warrior to be feared...he...has become too much the Elder, and Much less the warrior...

 where you not  there, when the freed ones  came a moon ago..speaking of The Arrows who freed them and sent   the Cat-folk slavers to their hells!


 The  Male Looked at Krel  then  across  the road to the female,would be  better for the Arrows to  keep our forest clean of the darkness...rather theough trying to Clean the whole of Laynak!....

 ..He has  his resons  for Helping Humans  and Elf alike...Even the Dwarves, are o, our  allies because of Him....One day..I will travel with the Arrows, rather then Guard  the raod to Razorhawk Village.

Krel blinks a few times, presses the meat of his palms into his weary eye sockets to squeeze out the rain, and gives his head a quick shake as if to dislodge the moist gloom of the Black Wood from his head and expell it with a tired sigh.

"This Elf you speak of... he sounds like an interesting fellow. I would like to meet him." Krel speaks, the last of it through a deep yawn. His broad shoulders shift uncomfortably under wet armor before he gives a slow, silent nod of approval to the Elf girl.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:40, Tue 03 June 2014.

  ..You will need  Eta , and Neta's   help on that! he chuckles..he and his Unti will stop  by from time to time, when thier passage brings them close...mostly ..just to add to the totem...they have been sending Messegers of late..


 The Female   snaps,..you are just jealous...he carries the title of ,Edhel En' Gurtha...you would  like to carry that name!

 ..The Elders  did not give him that...the people did..so its  not  worth...

 It is worth  more!...he did not earn in by ceremony or telling tales in an Inn...he earned it with his Blade  and Bow...and the Blood of His foes!

 The Male Looks Up an Krel,...they are all like this..make a hero out of a Hunter...

 ..I shall tell Ivy that next time  they come back..He will be more the happy to Tell Kree...

 The  Male  Looked  wide eyed  for a Moment..then said Nothing.

  The Gates  seem to appear from nowhere...but  really, where well made to look like growing trees... a dozen or so Greenish Helmets  with Elven Longbows  peered over the edge of the  tree-like  palisades..

..We have a HUman Merchant...of sorts...open the GAte!

Not wanting to get involved further, Krel lets the sound of Elves’ bickering fade into the beating of the rain against the leaves. Squinting through the droplets that become fat enough to bend the boughs of the canopy, he notices the oddly shaped trees ahead but thinks nothing of it, not understanding their true meaning until the moment the She-Elf calls out to the guards perched on the walk. His jaw drops in wonder, as he takes in every detail of the meticulously crafted façade in sheer disbelief.

"By the gods… what sorcery is this?!"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:49, Tue 03 June 2014.

 The  female  elf   giggles,This is what a forest looks like, when Humans  and Orcs..or even Dwarves can not mindlessly chop away  at trees, just because they feel the'need ' them...Ironwood Looks much like theis...but the Ironwood Elves sell off  so of thier  trees....The Crown has to PAy top price  for our trees..and we select the ones that come down... we take them Out of the forst , to be paid form and collected....Ironmound is not happy with this, but should they start a war over  something like this?..the City will fall, as soon as HArgen finds out teh Black Timber Elves  no longer support them.

 The Gates Open smoothly, Living  trees grow in some  sections of the Gates  and the Wall, adding to the camouflage.

  A stren Looking   MAle..older with Bright  green chestplate and   Imperial style Helmet approaches...

 ..A Human?..This  fellow does not have the Look of a merchant....

 Both  Elves  stand straight as the female says,Captain Deeproot sent him along..Merchant or not?..he has wares and  we are his first stop...

 The  Male Looked at the female with wide  eyes  as she spoke out to the  Captain...Did  she Now...and what  are your thoughts?

  The female , never missed a beat,..if the Goods  are his?...then we buy them, send him on his way, unless he chooses to settle here.. If he proves to be a Bandits..we  kill him and take all the  goods to be sold for ourselves...

 The  Older Elf Looked at the   Human,..I am  Krell Quickshadow...I am the Elder  here..for now....I am about to lead a Scout  Team  into the swamp Lands..we had  reports of   some of our people being active there....SGT Lightdawn, will be your Guide  from here on , Until you have  settled  in to sell your  ....goods...

 The Male  Looks at the Elder, What of Me  , Elder?

 ..You will report  back to Deeproot... LigthDawn has taken the step forward..mayhaps yuou have learned something this   night?

  The  Male   looked crestfallen, salutes  and turned to run back to the  roadway entrance...

 The elder Loked at LightDawn,...You psend too Much time with  My son, and Nephew...many  people  end up dead like that, Lightdawn...

 Aye...and  some of us end Up dead in the  swaps, forst, or  riverways...at least..I would chose  My path....

 Krell Looked at Krelgoth, Light Dawn will help you out..You have questions  before I head out...

 as they  speak  some  warriors, Humans,elves...even a Dwarf  come marching   past..everyone , has  some time of Missile weapon as well as their  favorite  Melee weapon, their skins  and armor   covered with  paint to look like  Mug and Moss and the like.

"I have many questions, but no time for answers. I have much to accomplish before night falls. We will drink and sing in your honor when you return, perhaps. That is the time to ask questions." Krel laughs out loud almost aggressively, as one might do in order to encourage others to laugh as well, or make them feel awkward for not having done so. "You honor me by providing me with this She-Elf guide. She will be of great use to me. I am in your debt, elder Krell.

Krel's open mouthed smile runs  ear to ear as he raises a thick fingered hand in fairwell, reaching shamelessly behind Light Dawn's petite frame to take her opposite shoulder in a grip as delicate as he can manage. After meeting the eyes of each other person in the gathering, and nodding to each in turn to show his respect, he backs away, gently but firmly leading his guide and his horses into town.

    we take you first to the Town Square, there you can set up your wagon to sell your Goods..The Main Inn is there as well, you can get a room, perhaps pay someone to run your...'store" for you  if you want to eat and Sleep.

 children of all races   run about, they head  to their  homes to tell of the 'new merchant".. as the settle a place to set Up, an old Human Man walks up to him..Good Eve Friend..it will cost you 5 gold to set up and sell your wars..you can pay now, or wait until you leave...I am Moss Noric..I run the   Commerce here..


 As  Moss talks to him, Krel can see a  large-Tall Hawk Totem at the back of the square, near a small hill that has a path way going up ( past the Inn)...there are sages there moving Tiles  around..some are alight, by magic..others are dark.

On the way to the square, to Light Dawn:

“I do not intend to set up shop just yet, but I agree the Inn is a good place for us to begin.” Krel puts the guide ropes for his horses in Light Dawn’s hand, and gives her shoulder a good pat. He walks around to the side of the cart, and loosens a corner of the tarpaulin that covers his goods, tossing his bracer under. The rest of his armor and helmet follow suit, until he wears only a generous hide loincloth, boots, and his bastard sword. “There is much work to be done before I can eat or sleep, but at least fortune has seen fit to give us a bath!” Krel laughs out loud again. “It is a good day!” he says, shouting and chuckling as he scrubs his armpits vigorously with rain water.

After he has had enough of that, Krel produces a knife, two large sacks, and a large pewter tankard from his saddle bag. In one sack, he tosses a few handfuls of figs, in the other, a few pickled fish. He holds the two sacks in the same hand as the handle of his tankard, which he fills more than half way with wine. He dries off the other hand as well as he can, and fills it with a small handful of rare spice, then fastens down the tarp again with one hand an his teeth as they approach the inn.

After Moss has introduced himself:

Krel is dumb founded by this run of good fortune. He is unaccustomed to such hospitality, used to having to track people down. To have a guide, and now the Master of Commerce turn up so easily is almost too good to be true. He takes a quick moment to re-focus his thoughts, carefully considering his situation. He gives Light Dawn a smile and an affirming nod, more than confident that she will be capable of minding the horses and goods for the time being. “Wait here.”

“Moss!”  Krel exclaims boisterously. “It is good to meet you! I am not yet ready to set up shop, but I require your assistance. Come! Come. We shall sample my wine with the barkeep, and you can help me appraise my goods. Then you shall have your gold.”
This message was last edited by the player at 20:15, Wed 04 June 2014.

LightDawn takes the horses  reins and  begins to  Fix them to a Post. Some of the children are watching the strange Human. Other   look as they pass  by, but  do not stop,.

 Moss  Nods,..lTake your Time, there will be now  wagon travel out of the  Town ay night, though we do allow  wagons in....even with  troops out there, the Black Timber is  not, for the feint of heart..

“Good thing my heart is stout!” Krel ‘s laughs echo through the square one last time, as he enters the Inn with Moss, his bronze musclebound limbs and torso shining in the dwindling daylight of the storm laden dusk.

<<<<<<<< Kree's group from Black Timber.


  The  walk down a slight  Hill  seems to be a giant , wooden wall.. the  Cook  fires  flicker behind that  wall Thick Boughs  and Limbs from trees Cover  the  Place as though ti were a roof.

  Tental  runs  past Kree and  Ivy, Whistling Loud. The wall seem to open, right where the path Met the wall.

  those in the  group noticed  dozens of heads  along the  wall, at elast half  had Bows ready Until Tental shouted,..ARROWS HAVE RETURNED... KREE'S UNIT!

  Ivy   looks at Kree as the  name seems  to take a life of its own and  echo through the   Village,..Would it kill them to say " Kree and Ivy's  Unit?"

 Kree  Puts  an  Arm around Ivy  as they walk giving him a shake,..They Know  it is us, My good  Cousin.... It's just my name is easier to say...

 Letting Go of his Cousin, he  reaches  an arm back to Brie,..Ready?

 The Group  walked  through the 'gates'...as  always   dozens  of  children...human, orcs, dwarves, elves..and   every mix there is of those  came   running shouting  the names of  Arrows..

  from where they were  a large Totem  with the  carved head of a Razorhawk  loamed  above... Tiles  glowed with the runes that Matched  Arrows  Names... some  names , no longer glowed, meaning they had been killed.

 Tental grinned back,..looks like they are finishing up your tiles...

   kids  ran around   touching the Arrows  a Little  halfhuman girl  with a small scar on her  forehead gave Lucy a hug.."..Kitty Lady!"

 Three  women stood    off to the side,.." There He Is! "  and they ran to Greet Ivy

  They tried to Pull him out of the  'march', But Ivy said,..in a  bit.... first we must report!

 there was a silent  Little Boy , he  walked up  to Kree and  Brie and Looked  up at him.

 kree   crouched down,..well?  Carr?..how do you fare?


 The Boy shrugged and  turned his head   away, kree  brought it back with a gentle finger,... I know what you want..aye?...  He reached  in the other side of his tunic and Pulled out a soft piece of  leather, slowly opening it,There were three bright  feathers,..The Yellow and red one?  I  found in out travels?... the Blue on...I took from a Halforc leader's  head dress..since..well.. he did not have a head...

 The   kid smiled and  tried to say something, but it was plain he could not  talk, he gave  Kree a Hug and took the feathers running  away holding them up...

 Kree watched him for a moment,..slavers  roasted his father before his eyes, to feed thier Orc  troopers.... they took his  mother as he watched.....then they took his tongue ...druids found him, and saved him, but couldn't  do anything to make him speak again...for some reason?..he likes  feathers... so? I gather  odd ones i find, bring them back, as i can...

  Even with the. excitement The Arrows  made in their  entrance, it  did not  stop  the  woman from performing the victory dance around the totem, as the Sages   shifted the tiles  around, with their new numbers.

  Kree  said to the others,..The elder s will meet us  when we reach the totem.. i will make our  report and  hand over the chests... after that, the Night is yours....and we shall see what happens  when the  magelings get here  tomorrow.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:01, Thu 18 May 2017.

Once they had started walking along, Brie quickly caught up to Kree and walked alongside him.  Not as a mere, fried, but a hopeful equal.  When they entered, the place was beyond mesmerizing.  She gave a half laugh at Ivy's comment about saying the dual unit.

She paused in her footsteps when the boy approached Kree and her.  She watched quietly at his silent request and Kree's forebearing gifts.

Sometimes, it is not words, but actions that speak, she says in lieu of his comment about the silent boy.  I'm sure he speaks volumes that some take with a grain of salt.

She puts her hand on Kree's shoulder and continues to look around.  Once he completed his announcement to the others in the group she returned her attention.  Am I able to come along or is this Captains meet only?

She wondered how welcome she would be.  Between Ivy and Myranda, she was obviously welcomed, but it is different when it is parental authorities approval.

  Kree Nods to  Brie.....we all  appear before the elders, to report. Thus a captain cannot   over claim, though i know only one captain that might  do that.

 There was the  sound of a Horn and   the Dancers  Made  way  for the Group.. Kree stopped in front of the totem..as they waited  for the Elders.

Lafisual takes it all in and is genuinely glad that there is a safe haven in this lands.  He takes it all in as he follows along and finds what seems to be an appropriate place to wait for the elders.

  The Music  stops.. three   people wall out  on the  balcomey of the  large In that sits back off the   Village  Center.. A dwarf... and two elves  The Elf in the Middle stps up... the  other elf  stares  down Kree.. The dwarf merely grins as he sips  from a Mug of Ale.

  The Voice of the Older elf is loud...and somewhat cold....So... 'Captain'  Quickshadow.... we both know, we cannot  keep this overly long. Else our  people  will stone us... there is  a lot of Laughter.

 ..Elder Bleakroot... My Comrades  and I have done nothing , other  then what we were made to do.... get contracts, and  cut the darkness from the  realms.... there are others, who broke off, nad are trying a contract on thier own... and  our scout, Riku  is , even as we speak..hunting for them now...

 His arm moves to the totem,..you have recieved  2  updates  from my unit.. We found  The Emperor's  daughter...and uncovered some traitors in thier Midst...

 The Dwarf  raises  his MUg,Nice Ta here  them folks get thier comeupance!

  Kree's Father  stepped up,... you were to  seek out a missing unit of Arrows, after you escorted the merchants... are you able to tell us why...you did not  find the Unit...and why you came here with Mage Guildmens at your heels?

   Kree Stiffen a bit as he  turned his head, only slightly, to his father,..In the Filed.. I command my Unit.... we  fulfilled the contract to the Merchants, even though it  involved..dangerous goods.....

 we were beset by  two groups, both lead by Red Elves... the second  group , came  at us as we ....slept... here he grins and  people laughed,...  the Chests..contain..Engar White... I had thought it would be wise, to sell it to the Mage Guild...hoping there would be less chance of  any product made from them, hurting   the Empire.... but?  they chose to treat us like Beggars...so.. we  brought the chests here..... As Far as the Missing unit of  Arrows go?... Carn and His until  travels that area... he should be the one  to find them... if not... we can Hunt them down when we leave here.

 ...you make the assumption, we  will allow you to lead this Group of Arrows again?

 ..And you..Elder  Quickshadow. Make the assumption that they will not follow me?

 there  are cheers  at Kree's  words.... The Dwarf Raises His  Mug,..That be Nonsense.... Ye would have me, bloody Vote!

  The Head Elder Nods  slowly..Kree's  father  is less then Happy....So...Crimson Arrows? We ask the question we must ask as per  our laws..... How Many of you will continue with Captain Quickshadow?

 Ivy  Puts up his    Hand,  and  grins at Krell. the  Elder Quickshadow shakes his head
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:12, Fri 28 Apr 2017.

 She entered the village with a sense of relief. She wasn't used to such long walks and keeping up with the long strides of men. She found a place to sit, laid her pack down and sat down to rest her feet and legs.

"Long walk today."

Brie had followed along with Kree and Ivy staying but a step or two behind and to the left of Kree.  When they passed the totems of kills, she looked at each name, carving, and notch giving her the strongest urge to want to reach out and touch them.  Yet, it was sacred and she knew, not being an official member of their home, it could possibly mean the loss of finger or limb, death even.  She let the thought play around in her mind and left it at that.  She smiled as the thoughts toyed around in her head.

Kree halted followed by a bellowing dwarf who spoke out to Kree and this unit of Arrows.  She looked at the three standing on the balcony and froze as she reached the sight of one of them.    She took a long hard swallow but remained in her position, behind and to the left of Kree.   If she hadn’t of known better, she’d have reached out for his hand, a bit intimidated by their looming presence.

When one of the Elders spoke of Kree’s possibility of not Captaining another unit of Arrows, she shook her head and tried to clear that thought of out of her mind.  Kree, not be a Captain, nor not having this group.  She couldn’t fathom it and while the thought and many words ran about in her head as she tried to reason the logic of him not being one, her mind let loose briefly.

"That is absurd," she said, loudly and abruptly.  She covered her mouth just as quickly as she spoke it.  That was a bad habit that she thought she had left behind in her own previous kingdom.  Guess not.

Her cheeks blushed and redden for speaking out of line.  She looked to Kree and Ivy apologetically and mouthed a 'sorry'.

She sent herself her own cursings as this was not her home or place to speak up.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 11:24, Fri 28 Apr 2017.

Lucy took it all in.  It reminded her very much of Tarakia from up north.  They too, loved to celebrate anything and everything.  But cross them, and they would go out of their way to bring hell down on your head.  Especially if you were a slaver.

 kids  ran around touching the Arrows a little half human girl  with a small scar on her  forehead gave Lucy a hug..
"..kitty Lady!"

That took her completely by surprise.  She wasn't sure exactly how everyone would take to her, but then again, seeing the mix of people here, she really began to relax.

Then the half human girl with the scar on her forehead ran up to her and gave her a hug.
"Kitty lady!"

Lucy was completely taken by surprise.  She gave the girl a hug back, and then chuckled.

Yeah, just like in Tarakia.

Lucy put her hand as well.

"Nobody else is good enough." She said.  "If Kree isn't leading this unit, then you can have my badge." She said.

Diana had never been to the Black Timber before, nor had she been to Razor Hawk village.  She allowed her self a moment to be in awe of the of everything.  Then she quickly got over it.

She greeted those who came up to her, and offered to play with any children.  But that would have to be later.  There was business to conduct.

The Head Elder Nods  slowly..Kree's  father  is less then Happy....So...Crimson Arrows? We ask the question we must ask as per  our laws..... How Many of you will continue with Captain Quickshadow?"

"Is that a serious question?" Diana asked.  "Really." She said, shaking her head.
She finally raised her hand like everyone else.

Lafisual solemnly raises his hand in response to the question and takes a brief glance noticing a few others a doing the same.

   When the little boy received his feathers the staff murmured something.  Orlin looked at it in surprise. "Huh, that'd be a first.  I doubt it would be well received but I'll ask.  Why the offer?"  Another murmur, "Ah, I see.  These are suspicious people.  I do't think they want a oversized magical creature flying around their sacred woods."

   Orlin carries the chest into the presence of the elders and sets it down before taking his staff in hand again.  There is a faint crackle of energy as the staff recognizes his touch.

   When questioned on continuing Orlin shrugs, "I'm in fer a decade or two."

 Rolf steps up beside the others.. Luthien, in his gleaming  armor, does the same.

   Then? It is settled, Elder  Quickshadow? It Appears  The good  Captain has the backing for his comrades, and that is something we  will not...take away...

 The Dwarf Raised His  Mug again.. Krell,  simply nodded, but looked grim.

  As the crowd Cheered , Bleakroot held up his hands. And it  took a few Moments  for the  people to settle down.

 ..So.... Captain? What do you feel  we should do with these  chests? Since it was you, who  first went to the Guild? and you have them waiting  out side the trees.....

  Elder  Bleakroot...Elder Quickshadow, Elder  Grenwal.. the chests are full of vials of Engar White..... I assume, the  merchants  had a tie in with the Red Elves..or the red Elves had fooled... I leave the choice you wiser heads , then I.. you could easily have our sages, and MAges  use the Engar White to better   the Black Timber, or raise coin to help us do so.......I feel, if the Mages leave here  with those chest, they will, nay reach, Tou. Unless, they too, are  working with the red  Elves...

 Krell speaks up,would would have us use  something, that are  cousins in the Seas fight and Kill..NOT..to be used?

Many a head turned to Kree, he  took a step forward...They didn't fight hard enough...because here it sits....And The Sea Elves  are not much better then  the Red Elves. They make  treaties with  the seafaring folk, and collect tribute...then? they attack those who who do not pay, or cannot afford to...

 His arm waves  at the  chests, even?  if it was only broken down into healing potions..it would save alot of Black Timber,,and Crimson Arrow  lives....

 Bleakroot nodded,Wisewords..from one considered...unwise. Wewill talk to the Mages  tomorrow... and we shall deceide from there....now?..let's  get to the Celebrations!

   6  troopers in Greentinted armor  came  down to collect the chests, they took them up the opposite hill , pass the Shattered Blade Inn..to take them to the Council Building where the  strongest of  the foundations were.

   The people  wasted  no time in   starting Up the Music and dancing  about.. Kid s Flowed out of the crowd again, ruining about the Arrows .

  People crowed  around them, Offering them drinks that ranged from Elevn Gold, to Human wines, to dwarven Ale, Human Ale...and... deep green Ale made by the lizard Folk, from the KArth swamp...and odd people, that may attack a hunting party one day...and  trade with them then next.

  Kree  called   out to His  Unit,there will be rooms  for us in the Shattered Blade......

  To Brie he said,..If you wish?  you may come to my home..or  stay at the Inn?   a  Mug and a Plat of  deermeat and fruit  was jammed into Kree's  chest, he lighted  and took a deep drink of the wine..Holding the  Mug up for the people to cheer.

With the affirmation of Kree retaining his title as Captain of his unit of Arrows, Brie gave a small celebration of joy in the spot she was standing, containing it to a bit of clapping and bouncing lightly.  She took a drink and a sip and looked at it wide eyed.  However, Kree’s question took her a bit more by surprise.

Really? She asks leaning into him.  Your…place?

She leaned back and looked in the direction of the Inn.  I-I most definitely would prefer your place, though I was thinking that inns and taverns were more  your thing.

She joked and looked around sighing.  So, this is it.  This is your home.   There was something inside that gave her feel goods.  Something she hadn’t felt…in ages until she met Kree.

I’m sorry about the outburst.  It, just, happened.  So, uhm, one of them was your…father?


She gave a nod in the direction of where the dwarf and the two elves came out onto the balcony.

  People danced, at times  sung, sometimes in Common, some times in Elvish. There was even an Half Orc  Woman who sang an orcish, tune..sad, but  the tone  rising until it  fil the blood  with energy  as though you could  fight  an Orge.

  The Crowd mingled, some, of course, talked and laughed  in their own groups... others  came to the Arrows  to ask them to tell stories  of their  adventures.

 Lucy  found she was popular with   the Kids... The little  Girl came over  with some Friends pointing at her   saying, " Kitty Lady!"

 The other   women did  get approached  by   men who wanted to know what they were doing after the feast.

   Ivy was Dancing  and Capering about with some 3 or  4  women..if he was interested in anything else, you couldn't  tell.

   ..For those of You who wish to stay  at the Inn? It will not  cost  anything.... I have  an extra  room or two , if anyone wishes  to stay with us.... he nods to Brie.

  I do suggest you unload your gear, so you may take  part in the Celebrations... He   Picked Up his  pack as  some   women and Men tried  to  not let him leave,  I will eturn, it has been too long from home.. and  Elvish cooking!

  He Nodded to Brie  and Pointed at the Totem... he waited for her to see her  name.

.................

 Orlin  had a Human woman,  dressed in  Green woven leaves and  carrying a Shillelagh,... You came down from the  Mountains.... Might  I ask why... for there are stories.....

...........

 There  were tables   set up for gaming... bones were being rolled... there were Mouse  races...it was interesting to see many of the  small Razorhawks   flitting from tree to tree... some if  rode on the shoulders of some of the  folks  who were dressed like rangers or  druids....

 Some of the children ( dispite the late hour) were taking part in games, races...

............

 One of the Bards  who was playing   the Songs  stopped the Music  as he shouted,... The feast will Continue... until tomorrow Night!... Mornfest......Midday meal...and  Evenfest will all be here!!!

 The crowd  roared  its  approval  as the Music played once more....

    Orlin raised an eye brow. "If I'm to answer yer question to yer satisfaction I would best ask what tha stories are."

  The Woman  looks around,...there  are  tales, of when the  Big ones  come down from the Mountains...that the Clash to end the ages is coming...

   there are a few kids that look at Orlin with wid eeyes..but  stay in a clump, as unsure to approach

   Orlin shakes his head.  "That's no a tale I've heard.  But if somethin were to drive m'people out of their beloved woods, then indeed that would be somethin to be reckoned with.  As for me? Wel the Gods saw fit that I be cast onto the lowlands on tha wings of an Eagle."

   He looks across the crowd.  "Speakin of which, which of tha counsel members would be most willin to talk to me."

In reply to Feast (msg # 166):

Brie nodded in agreement to drop off the bulk of her (their) gear and return.  As they walked along and he pointed to a specific spot on the totem she gave a big smile.  Though it wasn't as much as many of the others on the totem.  She was there.  Her name was on records at Kree's home.  She longed for acceptance in any form, this was a start.

She moved into Kree and took hold of part of a free-ish arm.  Sooo, what type of celebration? she asks curiously.  She'd never been to anything more extravagant than the tavern she worked in after a large raiding party came in or when the town celebrated its rebirth.  This, felt, different.

    The Druidess loks at the Inn  where the  Elders , once stood on the 2nd floor balcony. Grenwal..will talk to anyone... He is the first...non-elf.. to hold an elder's spot....Bleakroot, his the Chief  Elder... he may speak to you... The Elder  Quickshadow  may talk to you.... he is not  eager..to talk to  his own son...

  the  walked past the front of the Shattered Blade... the frond of the Inn  was covered in broken blades...those  are  blades that were broken in battle, both pours, and  enemies... when they are brought back... they are  fixed to the wall...

   Kree shakes his  head,..it is a big thing  when Hunter, or Units of Arrows  return... in our case, Ivy and I are still considered Hunter..and...we are Arrows...so there will be  much  eating, drinking and dancing. well..... into this time, tomorrow...

  After  a few Minutes of  walking and  being  greeted by  people  heading to the feasting, they come a  logcabin. the grounds in front are well cared for. Kree nodded at the looking at it,..there are  a few  folks who will care for  my home, when i am not here....

 they  walk pass the   deadwood  posts of the fence.. a well groomed garden was growing  some corn and such. He opened the door , a mid-age human woman  was checking the fireplace. a half elf man was tweaking some pegs into the   bannister  that lead up  to the upper floor.

 Master Quickshadow!.... we thought you would be at the feats, a bit longer!


  We are bringing our  gear home,  I will , indeed  return to the feast. It is the least i could do, for the greeting we have recieved...

 ..'cept fer yer Father..aye?
  Chuckled the  man.

 ..Linny!..Please  for  give My husband...he....can be so outspoken...

 Kree Grins as he   heads to the steps,..he is quite  right  Loa.... Linny? Loa..This  Is Brie.. she will be sharing my home, as long as she would   like....


 Loa   bows to Brie,..welcome Mistress   Brie.... to our Village...

 Kree tossed  Linny a pouch,..some of the pay i owe you and Loa..eh?

 .... Will Master Ivy be going to His Home?

 ..you know  Ivy.... i would be surprised  he ends up anywhere near his  home.....

 Linny laughs, Loa  gets a bit red faced.

  Kree opens the Master  bed room, putting his  Bow on the branch hangers in the  wall,  he takes his cloak , pack, quiver and lays it on  floor by  wall.

 ..do you need things Washed? Lao calls up the stairs.

  Nay..Look.. you two..get to the feast.... i am most certain, i will not get lost in my own home..aye?

 Loa  frowns,..If You are  sure..OHHHH....
 Linny grbas her  By the  arm and Pulls her to the  door,see ya  there....

Brie takes soaks up everything about Kree’s hometown as he walks them to his own home.  She swallows the lump in her throat as they approach it and she walks in right behind him and are greeted respectfully by hired caretakers.

Thank you…Loa, she said and bows back not knowing anything less than equal respect back.  She looks about the place as Kree finishes up talking with the couple and when he jests about not getting lost in his own home she turns and chuckles as well.

Good bye to you both, she says as Linny rushes Loa out the door.  It was a pleasure.

She then turns her own attentions to Kree and smiles.  Well. Now, she says and puts part of her gear in a corner clear of walkway or getting kicked over.  I’m here.  Finally.

She’s quite nervous.  More so from the inner feelings and self-doubts aspect of her human bloodline, than her elven side that is reveling in the glamour of it all, she has a minute feeling of inadequacy for the value and humbleness of the town and Kree’s home in comparison to her own town, shack, and of herself.

I definitely hadn’t anticipated the celebrations elaborateness, she said.  She walks over to him and leans against a wall.  I never thought, also, that I’d be here, now.  It was all, like a dream. 

She reaches her hand up and brushes his jawline.  Thank you.

  He  Gently takes her  Hand,..Well?  This is  My Village, for good or Ill.  It differs not, from most villages, except  it is now  largely  built from many races who have  come together, because of the harsh ways of Slavers and such.....

  Nodding to the door, he says....we  must get back.. it is considered , Il mannered  for Arrows who are being celebrated, to miss the celebration... I think? you may find it , rather tiresome!

  For the others. there  is Food either  shoved at them... or they are  Directed to the Tables.

 and Outdoor bar is Covered By Canvas that is a Mottled green,brown and yellow to blend into the   leafy  'roof' well above the  Village  center.

  Ivy capers about  with  women and some kids. He seems  like a kid himself, save for the Mugs of  wine he downs.

  For a Moment, there  seems to be a contest of sorts... drummers...pipers..and Flutists  play part of a song, to see which group gets  the most people   to dance..well stringed  musicians  play along  with them all.

  in some  places , bard/story tellers have clumps of people  listening to tales of  Elven lore, everything  from grim battles  to comic poems.

  The  three  Elder    are making their  way down the slight  hill, Green armored  guards  trail behind. But they do not seem too ready  for  trouble.

    "Then it sounds like Grenwal is the one to talk to. As for yerself.  You have the sense of someone one with the woods.  I AM a little new to this area, Could you help me become familiar with the plants and herbs available?"

  The  Woman  gave a  smile,..I am Enei..I  lead  my circle of Druids... you might be asking to learn the names, of the drops of water in the Storm River!  But I will  help you as   I may... if is not something that comes easy.

   "The talent of my line is dedicated to keeping the old one at bay.  Herbalism is one of my few pleasures.  Oddly enough he is more at peace here than I ever have felt him.  He even offered to give someone a ride.  Something I haven't heard of in all the centuries he has been kept within the stone."

Brie smiles and gives a nod.  It's better than from which I came, she said.  Most things I've seen, with you, are much better.

Let's get to the celebrations so as we can watch Ivy make a drunken fool of himself.

She gave a wink and was ready to go.

Diana went to the inn, and to her room.  There, she dropped off her equipment.  She laid her bow on the bed, and removed her quiver.  Then, her backpack.  It felt nice to not have to lug that thing around.

She undressed out of her battle clothes, and dressed in something much more casual.  She wore a short dress down to her knee, and a leather blouse and knee high boots.

When she was dressed returned to the party.

She danced with some of the men, but clearly her attention was captivated by a couple of the girls.  She went over making light conversation, and then began dancing, eating and drinking with them all night long.

Dawn would find her in her room, with two girls, one on each side, and a monster, slitting headache to go with it.

Lucy excused herself from the children to go to her room and put away her equipment.

She also changed out of her clothing into something much more casual.  When she was dressed she returned to the party.

The kids who had found her before, found her again.

"Kitty lady!" They all screamed in unison, running towards her.

Lucy had no idea how to react.  She had never spent much time around kids, and by far, had never expected to be their "Kitty lady!"

But, she supposed "Kitty Lady" was better then some of the things she had been called over the years.

So, she settled into a routine, of eating, playing with the kids, drinking, playing with the kids, and when they FINALLY all went to bed, she went to the gaming tables and wagered on the game of bones.  And ate and drank some more.

When the sun rose the next morning, she could barely move.  Her head was exploding, and she hurt everywhere.

Beside her was one guy on her right and a girl on her left.  She tried to remember the specifics of the night before, but after the kiddies went to bed, everything seemed to just turn into a big blur.

She groaned, rolled over and went back to sleep.  Even with the sun shining in the room, it was just too early to get up, or move.

  He   throws  and  arm around he rshoulder, Giving her  a gentle Hug, then leaves off as  he shuts the door.

   Instead of taking the path to the  Village center. he veers of on a  thin..seldom used  path..it , Like the other   paths to the   south west.. rise  a bit higher..

  When they  reach  a level  space.. he  walks  to the left a bit.. Even with the  music , food   smells and  songs  rising up  from the  Village  center.. This part of the forest was  darker.

 It was  colder... and the trees  seemed, less happy here. They  formed  more of a shroud  then a canopy.

 Here. were many stone with Names  carved in. Some had  figures  adoring them. Most of these were  bow men/women  others had   animals... some were  just pointed  stones.

 Kree Stopped in front  on one  stone, he  brushed  away some of the   seed pods  and dried leaves....look at this..... a year or better..judging  by the seed pods...no one  came here to clean  this place up....

 As he cleaned it away, the name said..'Lita Brighttree-Quickshadow'

  what would be a deeper voice for an elf, came from the darkness as a Figure stepped out  into the dim light...I did not see you, rush to clear it, Last time your  were here?


 If Kree was surprised  by  Krell's appearance, he did well, hiding it...we had little  time then, I did not even visit my house.....Yet?  You ..who are  an Elder and  never  venture  far from the confines of the trees... could not take an Hour?.. mayhaps..spend a  few coins to have some one else clean it...


 ... whether the  leaves and pods  are cleared away... matters little to your  Mother, and those  who rest with her.... Perhaps? If all are Archers  would ha been here that day....

 Rising, ever so slowly  Kree looked at Krell ,..you have  tried to blame  Ivy and Me for the last 10 years... yet? who was it, that called us..'unsuited' to be  Razorhawk Watchmen...... I noticed when the time came...no one doubted our skills to  be  members of the Black Hunt...

 He brushes  that away with a wave of his  Hand,  This, Father.... is Brestine Darksbane... I met her when i passed through the Mists, not long ago.... when I returned here.. I offered her the chance  at a new Home...and  a place with teh Arrows....Brie.. This is  my Father, Krell Quickshadow...now...2nd  Elder of  the Razorhawk Clan

 Krell looked at Brie  and Nodded,   ..you may wish to rethink your place with the Arrows... at least...HIS..Arrows.... many  folk Die under his...'command"...

 Aye, there is truth in that... My father has  only lost two or three people from His  Unit  of  Razorhawk Guardsmen.. but  then again.. its  ahrd to lose people, when your  biggest thread is a forest runner..

 Krell Glowered at Kree,we need to take  care of  our people first....something you would not understand...

 We need allies.. we cannot  hide in our trees for ever...sooner  or later... it will be our turn to be attacked... and  we have very few allies...

 This?..From the Elf  who is making enemies  with the Mage Guild?

 The Mages have never  been close friends. unless they needed  our people, or something from our forest... I simply  am making a statement

 ..a statement that you are a fool..and...

 Enough.....I came her  to  see Mother....not be  battered  by your words... In the end?  Elder Quickshadow.... There are mor epeople who would follow me... then follow you.... keep that  in mind.

    Ivy was, Indeed Making a fool of himself... but any that knew him, could see that it was a  part of his role.

  His fondness  for  females and   wine, not to mention the  roll of the bones...was not a mask, but he used it as a tool...and?  enjoyed it!

 ...............

 Enei talked with Orlin,..there  are many ways  to view the words of the fortelling...  none  can be sure...what the  words  mean...but? once  something happens , the words  can be made to fit what you wish...eh?  she chuckles  at her own  joke.

 ... i can point out  some herbs  that care  common to the Balck Timber, but hard to find  elsewhere.... With the great desert to the south... we have some odd seeds that sail into ot  beloved  trees... and mix  witht eh  plants that we  have now?... one   could say, those seeds, mirror   the people who settle into the Razorhawk Clans.

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 182):

Brie was simply glad to be here.  Where he was leading her to was definitely unknown to her, but she trusted him to take charge.  She’d come this far, why question or doubt now.  She cared deeply for Kree and would travel wherever he needed to go or be.

She watched as he cleared the stone and then read the engraved name on it.  She took a coupe of steps back when the Elder Quickshadow stepped forward and spoke in a deeper tone than Kree.  The conversation between the two became bitter and vindictive, and this gave her a deep understanding of why Kree never really spoke about his father.

Brie too had a rough relationship with her mother.  She denied and disclaimed the elven part of her and never let her know who she truly was until she nearly died.  It was not long ago that she learned who her father was and had a deeper understanding of why her mother never spoke of her father.  He was a letch and dangerous.  However, that was not Brie, and she always aired on the side of caution.

She gave a nod and greeting to the Elder.  Sir, she spoke softly and let them continue for a moment and when Kree attempted to halt the conversation by wanting to visit with his mother and share her with Brie, she had to speak up.

She partially turned and put her hand upon Kree’s chest and whispered, ‘One moment’.  She gave him a comforting smile.  She turned to speak with Krell.

Master E-, Elder…Sir Krell, she stumbled over what to specifically call him as she was not a full Elf nor from here, but she was here with Kree and would stand by him regardless, unwavering.   I am but a simple being here.  First and foremost, I thank you and the others here, for the celebration and invite to come here. 

She takes a step towards him holding her hands out to show no harm.  I do not know of the actual reason that you and your son, Kree.  Nor, do I know what your relationship with your wife was like.  Though, it must mean a lot for Kree to bring me to meet her, even in her passing.  I can only gauge that he and her were close. 

She took a deep breath.  I would follow Kree, your son, to the moon and back if it was his calling.  I care for him deeply, more than I have any one before him.  I’ve had a wretched and dark mysterious past and with Kree’ s guidance and his own acceptance, he’s taught me much of my Elven birthright and much of I'm sure what you've taught him on how to fight and defend. 

She took one more step thus putting herself dead center between Krell and Kree.  Sons are going to always look for approval and acceptance from their fathers.  Daughters are much the same to their mothers.   I’m quite certain your wife, his mother, would be more than proud of the work and group he has obtained.  Likewise, I don’t think she’d want such a dark void between you both, even if you don’t exactly see eye to eye.

I was quite nervous coming here, for being accepted by the people, your people here.  Knowing I’m only half-Elf, it gave me an unsettling in my heart and mind, but I knew that Kree would never let any one treat me disrespectfully.

She turned to look at Kree and back at Krell. I can only hope that at some point before it is too late, that you can forgive yourself for whatever happened and forgive one another.  I’ve seen too many times families split because of hatred, vengeance, and greed.  I don’t see the first or the latter with you, Sir Krell, but I feel a deep aching pain and regret ebbing from you.  I don’t need magic to tell me that, I can read it in your eyes.

I apologize, if I’ve stepped out of line, but when it comes to him. She points behind her.  I care enough to step up when needed, and sometimes, when not.  I am still learning.

She nods and does a human-like half-curtsy to Krell something that came to her from habit of speaking to Elders and those of leadership as she grew..

In reply to Feast (msg # 183):

   Orlin nods thoughtfully, "True about Prophecy, the elders of our mages feel that there is a web that binds all things into a single soul.  The thought is that we are free to find our own way.  Destiny simply means that the over soul is wise enough to see the paths we will chose.  I assume there is a place I can resupply my medicines and suppliments here?  I try to only rely on the basics so I can always have an understanding of what I can achieve with my supplies."  He pats his Otter skin bag.

  Krell watched   Brie  as she  Spoke, Kree took a few steps  back and began clearing some more leaves from the next  stone over.

  When  Brie was finished, the Elder  simply nodded to her with some respect. then his eyes  went to what Kree was doing once more..you would think your  cousin would  find  time  to do that himself.

 Kree didn't look up,..Ivy is  enjoying himself... he will stop here  before we leave again..he always does.... we almost lost him to a red Elf arrow...


   There was a grunt from Krell,..was it a pitched  Battle?

 There was a shake of the younger  elf's  head..first Ambush..with the merchants.... The second  time they came for us, was  at The Mast...we  made sure  there was not much left....

 ..The Merchants worked against you? even while paying you?

 Kree stood,..I could not Prove that... i am thinking , the driver for certain.... if i had proff.. they would all be dead...

 That seems to be your  answer to everything.....

 There was a light chuckle,..not my answer... Father. TYhe Answer of the crimson Arrows...The Answer  of  the Razorhawk Clan...

 ..how so?

 With a look back to the stones, Kree said,...leave no live  enemies behind you.....

  He  turned to go Giving Brie a Gentl pat on the arm...Krell just watched...

  Enei  looked to the back, then back to Orlin,...  tomorrow, after    midday meal... take the path up the Hill , past the Shattered Blade...about  a half mile or so..you will see some stone and thatch cottages.. that is  were the Druids   have thier  homes..when they find  time to ...be there?

 ... we will see what  we may stock for you.

Brie watched as the tension eased a moment as they talked with a bit more patience and concern over Kree's mother's kept place.

Ivy, is Ivy, she said softly.  I've learned he takes his time doing things, in his own time.  Even in the short time period that I've traveled with the Arrows.

She gave Kree a smile as he turned to go.  Sir, Krell, sir.  I think she would want what's only best for you both.  For the family.  For the Arrows and your clan.

She gave him head bow of respect and turned to follow Kree.

After a bit of space had been gained between Krell and them, she spoke up. I hope I didn't make you mad.  I see now why you don't speak often about him.

  Kree and Brie   returned to the   fest.   People called out His name. The   lead  Bard called out......Captain..it is time for you to use your skills to entertain us!

 Two Girls   Grabbed his  arms    and Brought him to the 'stage'..a long wagon used  for  logs and such.

   The elf  Looked a bit  embarrassed but  said,... You all know, the  only instrument  i play, has but one string.... but it makes  sweet music, each time i thrumb the string!

 people laughed...

 ..I cannot sing... but   the songs of warriors .... he shrugs, I tell tales,  for my 'bard work'.....Do you care  for a Tale?

 Kids  and   grown ups  alike called out  names  of Tales...but the one that stood out, was the High peak demon.

  The Demon it is! folks  cheered, and  Kree   took a  tankard of  Elven Gold from one of the   women... He walked  back and forth as he talked,

 Krell appeared Behind Brie,always tried to get him to learn the Lute... he was to worried  about purse strings, they lute strings.. he  whispered.

 ... As you know... Deep in the bowels of the Highpeak Mountains, are many a fell folk... dark dwarves... Gnomes....dark elves... dragons..Ogres.... but the worst of All is the High peak demon.... he looked at the kids ( who really should be sleeping..but?  this was a fest...)

 some time ago....long befoe  even Elder Bleakroot was Born!  laughter..including from Bleakroot himself,... two Holy men set off on a mission, to Kil the  Demon and rid Hargen for its influence.... They Hired an Arrow... This Arrow? he was. like many Arrows... smart... quick...

 Ivy stoof   Up putting his hand on his chest,..and Handsome!  folks  laughed again.. the bards  were  strumming  mood music to go with the story..Aye...and Handsome.......talking a deep  drink of the elevn Gold he looked over the people, Mostly the  kids, They went through  forests   and  followed the rivers.... this was before... the Furman's  Chain.... it took weeks..but soon the Arrow  found a small tunnel , into the mountain....

 music  was changing   as he spoke.. kree began to look from child to child as his voice  got more menacing ,after  days  of  fighting through the   Mountain, they...at last..Came  Upon the Demon.. tall as an Ironwood  tree... and Kept  in place   by the  Molten heart of the high Peaks...But.. the  creature  still had  power... and  he froze the heroes  and  placed them on a board.... on the other end of the Board were The orcs... The  dead put them heroes to a test.... it was how he Amused himself... Trapped  bu the  deadly molten metal that could kill even him... The demons   Firey  eyes  and scalding skin  made sure, none of his  toys could move...

He Looked at the  First Holy warrior  The follower of the All Power.. "..I will test your faith!...  If you  step off the board and send  this orc to his death... I will give you  the Mace of  Truth...not only will it let you know, when some one lies but it will destroy them as well!"

  Kree  changed his  voice to  sound grilish.." I will not  do your Bidding!...kill the orc yourself!"  he took another sip,the demon nodded,  he flicked  his finger  and the orc  went across the ravine.. to a door and ran away.....

 ..to the second  holy warrior the follower of Lenus... he too..would not Kill the orc..even though he was  Promised the Sword of the Sun.. Instant   death to any Undead    it would be close to....

 ..again?  the orc  was wisked across the way.... and  ran out the door to the   Hargen side of the Mountain....

...then  the Demon, who was much amused.. turned to the   Arrow...... I will give you this  Arrow of Power... it  will slay anything it is used against...and  will return to your quiver...a week after you use it....all you have to do is....

 Kree Yelled!!!... the Kids ( and some adults) Jumped...the elf  chuckled,..The Arrow had stepped off the board, before  the   Demon even finished,,,sending the orc down to a firey death... The demon  Gave him his Arrow.


 But the Demon was not  done .. he looked at the All Power  warrior......"...the orc  you set free?.... will rape a  young woman, her son will become a great Halforc  warrior...and Kill thousands  of people..enslave thousands More....because you failed to kill him......

 to the Lenus  warrior,  the demon said,"....Your  Orc will find a group of Bandits... he will train them and they will become the greatest warriors in the realms...and help lead  Haregen, in taking over the realms....all this? because you would not kill the orc....

  Then Finally..to the Arrow he gave  a Black Arrow..with  a Blood red Tip, and scarlet  feathers. " you have  done  well... the Orc you killed  would have stole boat..he would build a great Pirate  fleet,,,and kill or  enslave thousands before   his fleet would be destroyed....You?  can rest easy  at night...while your friends.. must share in every slave..every death..caused  by their pompus ego-fed actions....

 The Demon placed the three by the door,".... i will allow you to leave...I will enjoy watching you try, to stop the pain you released upon the world, but not stopping them, when you had the chance...

 The flames on the demon's  arms , seemed to dancing and Mock them..even as the  Arrow   Pulled back his  Bow and aimed towards the Demon...

 ..You fool! Do you think i would give you a weapon that could harm me?

 Kree leaned towards the Kids..some shook their heads slowly...some  huddled next to each other...

   The Arrow  Fired  his Arrow of Power.. and it  sailed  Past the  Demon and Into the  wall!  the bards  Banged on  Big Drums..causing  folks  to jump once more..

 The explosion  Blew a hole in the wall... and the Motlen Metal shot   out... Pouring over the Demon, Knocking him to the  firery floor... in minutes..the demon was  gone.. melted to death, By the holy  metals of the High Peak Mountains....

 ..as the htree walked  down the  tunnel.. they had new respect for the Arrow... The Alpower Warriror said...you beat the Demon!....

 There was a nod , from the Arrow,"..it is My way.......you must be the Fire...that fights, the fire...and you cannot leave  Live enemies, behind you!"

 Then the  Arrow  added...."...let us go clean up your mess...."

  Folks  Clapped and  kids cheered for the Arrow in the story...one of the women Gave Kree another   mug and he left the stage.

  The Lead Bard asked  if  any other  Arrows  cared to entertain!

Brie laughed when the two girls took off with Kree so that he could tell of one of his adventures.  She paused as her breathe was briefly taken away when Krell walked up behind her and spoke of Kree’s childhood.  She let out her breathe and smiled.

Kree, is a person of many talents, she said to Krell.  Even if it’s not exactly how you want it, he still gets the job done.   My mom, she wanted me to carry on her human occupation, being a hand-maiden to the local King.  It was the local wizards during the time of their festivals that I learned of their tricks and they in turn taught me a few things.  I traveled with them for a bit until I returned home and then my mom sent me to a local tavern for a new line of work.  She was ashamed of me and my newly learned talents, but she saw a momentary light of profit.  That’s where Kree and I met.  I never made my mother happy.  I never let her meet Kree.  It would have been a bitter moment for her. It was a wicked slaver Elf who took her joy and then I came along and took away the rest of her life.  She too had been an adventurer.

She listened to Kree spin the tale as he drinks of the Elven wine.

I can’t tell you what to believe or feel, but your son is does well.  Given the chance, he can be just as great as you and accompany you upon that mighty balcony that you stand.

She turned to look at Krell.  All my life, I wanted to know who I was and why.  Once I learned that, I felt ashamed, thanks to my own mother.  Kree came along when I was at a very low point, worst job of my life.  He showed me the path, showed me what it was to be an Elf.  Mind you, I’m only part Elf, but one nonetheless.  Since, I’ve grabbed ahold of everything I can learn and ran with it.  Kree accepted me for who I am.  I’m more than thankful.

Kree had finished his story and left the stage taking another drink.

I, too, just want to be accepted.  I may not be of the same blood as you, or Kree, or Ivy even, but I will never, ever put myself in a situation where I taint the Arrows name or honor.  I don’t care if you don’t accept me, I’ve been denied many times over.  That one there is all that matters.

She paused and took a deep breath watching out before her at Kree and Ivy.  He makes me happy. Much like I'm sure that you made your wife happy too.

Luthien had long been very quiet...contemplative...but the Knight seems to have returned from his reverie, and rejoined the main festival.

"Slaying an orc, or any other being, must be judged on its own merits, not because someone else told you to do it. Regardless of who someone else is. In this case, the demon knew it was such an untrustworthy source that if it told people to do something, they'd decline, and evil would spread thereby. It was a well played gambit."

Garrat had thanked the druidess and listened to the story.  "Do you have the tails of how he cleaned up the messes?"

   There was a bit of a laugh from the druidess,..as  young Quickshadow  said..it was a tale from years back..and more.... The Arrow back then, was called..just that..The Arrow. years later  he founded the Arrows, so to  seek out  evil,... They did not  become the Crimson Arrows   Until Kree's  Granfather... Brig Brighttree... set the course for Arrows, to not  just Hunt down Darkness, but become mercenaries, with coin being added to the Black Timber Coffers..

 she  chuckles  a bit more,..There isn't a  village in the Forest that doesn't have at least one until...but the Razorhawk clan  has the best.

............

  To Luthien one of the townsfolk  just   chuckles,..There be some Orcs who have moved into The Timber.... But  you won't see many an Orc spared, when  we are on the battlefield..

  Krell gave her a  wry smile, as kree kept getting intercepted  by  townsfolk, Most of them women. He received  some  kisses and Hugs, slaps on the back and  armclasps from men.

   There were some  Genuine smiles and laughter from Kree  as  some  of the  people who sported   Arrow insignias  stopped  to  ask/tell him something.

   There was  bit of stern disgust...or? envy? as he watched  Kree,...There is not much difference, between he and his cousin..perhaps? Ivy is more Honest, because he shows  his wanton ways , more then  Kree. who seems to be covered in the cloak of his ..'leadership'... I  must mingle with the people, I am sure I will see you, on the Morrow....Lady Arrow...

   A Human woman who wore  any eye patch and  leather (sparse )  armor.. her  Arrow  necklace  Bouncing about  started to Pull Kree once more to the  Center... Kree  pointed to Brie.. and  Two   folks  grabbed her  and  ushered  her to the  center.. There   people  put their  arms on each others  shoulders  forming  a circle around the Totem...

  the bards  began their   music and three bards.. a Human Male, and elven female..and  a Half Orc female.. would  sing the words to the song, Honoring  the Names on the totem  The   Circle   moving  first clock wise..then counter  clockwise, with  a leg  kIcks and Bows

  even children  formed their own little  circle  and  emulated  the grownups ..Ivy   stood on a table  waving a bottle  a Bottle and shouted  out  chorus on his  own...

 Elder Grenwal was dancing  about, as  good as a drunken dwarf  could dance.... while Bleakroot seemed  content  to watch, smile  and sip at his wine.

Brie watched as Kree attempted to get back to Brie and the Elder Quickshadow.

Before they came and got her, she shrugged at his comment. The same could be said of you, she said and then let herself be lead away before she could speak further.

She joined Kree and leaned in to kiss him on the cheek.  She took a drink and began the merriment that Kree and his clan offered.

 the celebration never  really stopped... but did  slow to a crawl a few hours  before  sun up.

 Kree  and Brie talked to  folks of the Razorhawk Clan... there was also a Unit of Arrows from the Rooteater Clan...they traded some information with Kree as to the Missing  Tou Unit..and they also shared , mistrust for CArn and his Unit.

 People told Brie  embarrassing  stories of Ivy and Kree getting in trouble, being chased through the Timber by older brothers  or  Fathers of Maidens... or by  farmers  whose   cows  started to glow in the night because of   glowroots  put in their  water.

   Grenwal stopped  by and Listened  with a gleam in his  eyes  laughing with the rest..He holds up his Mug for a refill of  ale ( he didn't even care what kind!) and  told the story of  a Human Merchant who had come from Ironmound to a Bazaar that the elves   set up outside  the Trees....so... there's  this Iromound Human... he's  sellin' silver ware...Cup..plates... you name it... he was also Buyin' the stuff?..an' what was he doin'? The Bloody Bastard was plating   tin with a silver coat...bakin' it on..hard  ta tell ' less  you was a dwarf...or  mayb  a gods-be damned gnome.... but.. seems Kree bumped into som eone  and noticed  the chip on a plate , when it hit the ground.. so's..these two ragamuffins  get this  idea.. they're gonna make the fella  pay fer stealin good coin from the   Black Timber  folks?... So  Kree  keeps brining  folks over  ta the man's  wagon.. and they pay him. an' he drops the coins into his  lockbox safe that's in the   wagon..Right behind him....now?..Kree.. fer a  rascal..he's pretty good at talkin' folks inta  things... so these folk are comin back ta the merchant..led by Kree, who told  them what they were doin'...by night fall? the Merchant had  only a couple  items left.. and he gave them ta Kree for  bringin' him so many  Customers...The  crowd  moved back into the  trees... and only ones  left were the few 'outlander' Mechants...they weren't permitted inta the forest at that time...but the  Silvaerware Mechant?  he goes  ta count his coin? and all he  find in his  safe is a bunch of tin slugs, half painted with silver coat...  and a hole that was  cut through the floor of his wagon  by Ivy..some say there  is still a Bounty of Kree's  head  in  Engar fer that , since the merchant's home town was there...

 Kree  chuckled  and   waved to everyone to Lead Brie home... Ivy   was gone... but none knew where...

 She came and sat nearby listening to the stories and laughing with the rest of the people. It had been a long time since she had been able to listen to stories and join with a group. Perhaps someday she would feel as if she belonged. But for now she would linger and listen and learn to know these people if possible.

In reply to Feast (msg # 193):

"In fairness, I have never met an orc worth sparing. But if the goddess insists one of them is not black to the core, then I must follow such a pronouncement. On the other hand,
one of my duties is to scan to slavers we fight. Every once in a while, I'll find a man who reads grey. I usually find such men were forced into it against their will, or they're very young...teenagers, mostly, who don't understand what they're doing and would quit if they were informed."

IE, if his aura read pronounces a particular orc NOT black to the core, he must respect that.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:31, Tue 02 May 2017.

   The Morning  came.  Smoke  from  either  fires  that have died our, or new fries that were being built... drifted  slowly into the air..fighting  with the dampness, to reach the tops of the trees and be gone.

  Dew dropped from leaves, making the  forest  look like rain, anytime a bit of Breezed rifted  through...but all knew , in a few hours   it  would be warm, and dry.

 People  came  from the  homes in the Village, and  even some of those  who lived on paths out side of the village , proper., bringing  food to add to the tables..Huntmen carried  back boar and Deer..some a string of rabbits, for making  stews or slicing meat.

  except  for  talking and some laughter, the Village  was a bit quiet.  Bards would not show up, until the mid day meal.

  Kree was up, untangling himself  from brie, and put on a fresh set of forestgreen clothing, his  leather   he cleaned and hung  outside, along  with Brie's. Witht he  food  being brought to the  Village center, The elf  only make  caffee, with  tea set aside  for Brie.

 their   old traveling clothes  hung outside as well. a new  set, laid out  fro Brie from  his sister's closet.

  As he waited  for her to wake, he sipped his caffee, and  rubbed down the Bow, and  checking the heads on his  blackshafted  arrows.

  Kree had the door open to the fresh air..Loa  knocked softly as she entered,..you should have waited, I would have cleaned the clothing and armor?

 he motioned to the Caffee,...nay? Fests  do not come along   often enough, for you to spend  time cleaning....I am..able to clean my own things  when i am here...  he grinned a bit.

 ..Of  Course, CAptain... Linny and I were  on the way for Mornfest?... will you be coming?

 Aye, as soon as Brie makes ready...

 she smiled and waved,..we will see you there....

......................

 At  the Village Center a runner  came in  and ran to the  Council Building that was  across the  path from the Shattered Blade... The Mages  where on their  way, and should reach the   village by Midday meal.

Once Kree and Brie had left the party and settled in for the night, the night of partying took its seat and Brie was out for awhile.  Even with Kree shifting her about, she didn't wake for a couple of more hours.

It was eventually the sound of Loa and Kree talking that woke her up and she sat looking around the room and saw the new garments that Kree had set out for her.  Definitely must've been his sisters, she felt a pang of sadness but honor at the same time.

Getting dressed as briskly as she could, she wanted to say hello to Loa before she departed.  Being a bit disheveled with her hair, she came out and gave Loa a nod and hello.  Morning to you, she said.  Hope the festivities have treated you fair.

She walked up to Kree and kissed him on the cheek.  Thank you for the clothes, she said softly.

 Lao smiles a bit  embarrassed at the state of  Brie's hair...The  late night  fest was a bit much.. we left after  Master  Kree's story. Linny and  I deciede to  not do any work at the house today.. I do not even need cook!.. we  may buy a pie or two form fair, to take home as well...

   There is a Nod  To Linny as he collects his  wife  and the head off to the  Village. The clothing is  not  doing anyone good, hanging in a closet.,,and  our leathers  needed cleaned  and aired, so we do not carry the scent of Tou with us, everywhere  we  go.

 we  you are  ready, we will go  for  some food.. i would like to be there  when the Mages  Come

....................

 As other Arrows made their  way to the  fest. They saw  many a folks lying about, as if some great battle had taken place, except there was no blood, and some folk were rising very slowly.

  Some of the cooks  were  laying pans  of  cut meats and   homebaken breads  on pans to tast them, or keep the meats  warm.. there were already a dozen of  so pies on the table.. and   women were coming down the  slight  hill with more, from the Shattered Blade's  Bakery.

Brie waved Linny and Lao a good bye as he brushed her out of the house.

They are a very cute couple, she adds. We can go in a bit.

She gives a wink to Kree.  She then saunters about the house looking at everything and coming across his sister's closet of items.  She looks over it all carefully.

It can stay here, she says to him as she goes to find a place to quickly tidy up her hair once she's gave the place a look over. Besides, I'll need pretties when we come back to visit, eh?

Once she had brushed out her hair and put it up in a partial tie back, she came back out to find Kree.

We can go when you want, she says.

   Kree takes His bow up the steps, hanging it on  the wall with the  Arrows  close  by. The weapons  Belt  stays , lying against his   'ever-prersnt' backpack. , but he   dose take a  small belt off the wall that holds a  Silver handled  Dagger.

  The one thing, i do not like about  gatherings, is that we should not bear our  weapons, unless we are either coming, going, or on watch. It is considered an insult to the Wardens of the forest...

  Off we go then....

....................

  There is one lone  , younger bard, playing near the 'stage'..simpl;y strumming  some light music as  folks  wake up..or stumble in..or arrive to eat.

 Krell is  sitting with a Human woman, who is a few inches taller, and broader of shoulder, but very comely and is flirting with him with no shame. Krell..seems to overly enjoy it.

 Grnwal is  sitting  by Himself, with a plate stacked high with hotcakes, , though they are hard to see under the  syrup he  dumped upon them

  Bleakroot is not at the  Village center.

  Kree finds a table   that is back a bit , so he can look at the Totem ( and have an eye on the 'trade road' entrance ) He asked  a rather chirper, server  Girl  if she has seen Ivy...her response was to look around with wide  eyes, and frown,..nay Captain, i have not , since late night?....I think he said...'spreading joy aorund"... was the last i heard...

Thank you... can I have some Caffee with milk and sugar.. and whatever  eggs  may be made?...And what ever Lady Brie would wish?


 she Smiles  and nods, and  waits for Brie to order and will move  quickly to get it.
..........................

  There  clerics.. an Elf woman wearing a green robe with Yellow  trim and a tree on her  right  shoulder and over her  hart, sits  with 2 Men. One elven man wears, Green and white  robes  with white  trim, a Golden arrow on his right shoulder, and over his  heart. The Third man is Human and wears Red robes  with silver   trim, a silver bow with a knocked  Arrow is on his right shoulder and over his heart. This fellow is  eating a goodly pile of meat and  toasted bread.
..................

   the  amount of people stay about the same, as some folks  come to eat and  drink, while others move off to get some things  done. other folks are staying , giving themselves a holiday!

Brie follows Kree down to the festive set up.  As Kree is locating a table, Brie passes by Krell and runs her hands along his shoulders comfortingly, smiles, and nods.

Elder, she says and then locates where Kree sat and took her place next to him.  She smiles at the server and contemplates on what to order.

I think, I'll make it simple today, just some type of bread, jam, honey, and maybe a bowl of mixed fruits.  Some morning tea would be fine as well please.

Once the order was taken and the girl dismissed herself she turned to Kree.  No word on Ivy? she asks.  Probably found himself in some brush and no clothing, knowing him.

She giggled.  Whose that by your father? she asked curiously noticing that the female was human.

   Kree  drinks  from his caffee as he looks to  the Elder,..I am Uncertain... Northern from her  look.  Must be one of My father's latest admirers ... He focuses on  the women, i guess he figures  if he can conquer slavers,  he can go after easier game...

 The  Woman and Krell are Both looking   towards their  Table , Kree  raises his   mug and  grins his  grin that has anger many a person over the decades.

 The Woman frowed  and  was  speaking to Krell with a vexed look on her  face, Krell shot  Kree a dark glance  as he tried to calm down the woman.

 ..Aye, Northern for certain....most like, has a Club sitting by her  feet.
 he started to chuckle.. The the Horns  Blew...signaling the approach of the MAges...

Brie watched the visual glare show down between Kree and Krell.  She giggled a bit.

I can see where Ivy does get his way of swooning the women, she said.  I can also see where you get your intimidating looks from as well.  Can't blame your father for seeking some companionship after...

She halted her comment as the horn blew.  She looked around trying to figure out what that meant.

Her hand quickly going atop Kree's hand nervously.  That means? she asks.

   Kree  took another  bit of the toasted Bread.  If the Horn Blows Once...as it did now. That means outlanders are coming by one of the Trade roads... The roads  wind a bit, on Purpose, so we can ambush those who would mean the Villages or the  forest harm...

 ..Two blasts means  we have  enemies in the forest itself... that's when Hunters and Wardens  earn thier Keep, by hunting  them down.

  Horn blasts from all over, as we heard yestereve, means   Arrows have returned home..

   Kree does    sweep the  area with  a turning head, trying to account for his people, but he shows no  worry. Unless something   stupid is done, he has no fear for their  safety.

 Bleakroot  was seen, leaving the  Council  Building, behind him 4  wardens carries the 2 chests.

.................

 those in the  Inn were a bit  warmer then those  eating outside. But the trade off in food was equal..even  the greenish, moss-like gruel, had an aroma and flavor that would shock some one, after seeing it sitting in the bowl.

  The  three  Clerics who were sharing  some time together, also  turned to look at the  road way through the  'real' Gates, as warden swung the   thing  wooded doors open..both  doors Locked with a  balanced bar, that rose into the air when wardens  cranked   the  braided  hemp-like rope...when the  door  swung open , inwards.  Those  folks  could see the  doors  were made  by matching  20 foot tall Longs, not  only braided together  with the thick Hemp... but  long   poles  that  went through the  top, middle and Bottom of the  doors..

   First the leader  came through the gates, close behind him, was the Riding Mage.. then the cart with the Horse  as The driver  watched the horse. But the MAgeling Looked around..clearly in awe of the  rather large Village set in the 'middle' of the forest.

  The riders  were asked to  dismount, and the horses  taken to the  side  to be fed and watered... the wagon was held near the GAte, as  its  horse, was taken off the collar and  permitted to eat as well.

  An Officer of the wardens, a Youngish Elf whose Green armor  somehow gleamed in the sunrays that were  filtering down through the trees.  Mtoioned for them to take  a seat at and Empty Table, and told them to order something to eat...Mean while, Grenwal  met Bleakroot  as they walked towards  the MAges... Krell Dallied  with the  human woman, before getting up, grabbing his Bow, and walking  with them.. it was interesting, on this day, he wore his Warden Breastplate...

  The Mages  sat..The leader seemed less then happy. But the others  were ready for the  Elven food... to their  surprise. it was not just elven food, but Orcish meals ( that did not require  humaniod  meat!).. some Halflig fare..Dwarven, robust  meats  and stews..and even a few  Catfolk  samplings .

  As they  picked what they  wished  to eat and Drink. Bleakroot  had the Wardens  put the chests  near the totem... perhaps in a way of showing the MAges the Arrows'  numbers?... but that, of Course would only help those who could read the Names in elvish runes, or who have seen those runes  used.

 about  half an hour, the MAges  were finished  eating, getting some extra  drink from smiling   servers... Bleakroot , Grenwal and Krell approached.

 ..Greetings  MAges of Tou. I hear, from out  Arrows,that you seek to bargin for those goods  with in the Chests?

 The Mageling  stood  and Bowed his head  slightly,..Indeed..  High Elder. we had some , Misunderstandings  with your Captain... and hge refused a fair price on the road... saying  we must deal in your  city, since we would not deal in mine...

 Grenwal spoke up,..an' there by hangs a bloody tale!.. As ta  why ye didn't wish ta bargin in your  city!

 The leader  put  down his mug  and  glared at the Dwarf... The riding  MAge , just continued to eat,,as did the Driver...your  captain is overly full of himself!

 Krell laughs  Bitterly...of that?  there is no argument...but his confidence  is backed by his successes in the  field...

 ..Should he  continue to push such boundries..it will be his  end....

 Kree snapped,..but you will not  live to see the day....
 The elader  snapoped   a hard lok  at Kree, as did  Krell..

 Bleakroot raised a calming  hand to Kree,..Continue  with your Mornfest, Captain Quickshadow. Our people have learned  how to take slights from others... this? should be no different. And.... this  dealing is now in our hands... please, to not interupt....

 Kree slowly nodded,..Aye... High Elder.... but his glare at the Leader   was enough  to make the Leader  turn his gaze back to the  Council .

Brie watched the occurances as they took place.  Even enough patting Kree's hand when the Mages try to degrade Kree and his Arrows unit.

Had you been a it more pleasant and worked with us, you'd have had less hassle trailing us, threatening even to chase down these chests.

Brie adds in tandem with Kree's comment.

   Orlin had spent a restful night in the woods. [He really likes the trees here] and had returned.    He grabbed breakfast then returned to the square for the trade meet.  He nods in response to Brie's and Kree's statement.  "N'deed, while Kree may have pushed things a bit, you and your lackey at the gate took them over the edge.  Well beyond anything Kree did.  In the high woods, we are gruff, but some common curtesy's are what draws the line between friend and foe."  Orlin directly addresses the leader. "You and yours definitely  came off as foes by word and action and Kree is trained not to leave an enemy at his back.  I Rather think he showed a great deal of restraint by letting you live."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:27, Thu 04 May 2017.

  Krell glowered at Kree once more,..your people  seemed to have fallen in with your bad habits...

 Kree  leaned  forward, on his Elbows, cupping the warm cup of caffee..the day was, indeed  getting warmer.. the leaves  would  hold  The heat well into the late night  dancings.

 ..If you thing   that was  a bit crase , You should have been at the Palace, when we returned  Nelk's  Daughter....  he turned

 ..you did  , what?

 Kree shrugged, Reedrick sent the information..by  Spell Sphere... who is  in charge of  updating these....

  The Two other Elders  turned to look at Krell...I updated the information, I....just thought it unimportant  to spread around....

 Kree lets out a harsh Laugh...

 Bleakroot was , more then a little put out... You are the  Commander of  The Clan's  Wardens.... The Wardens  and  Arrows  have a rivalry...but it should not  extend to allowing a Unit its  due praises.....much less, still such, from your own blood!

 ... The   entire report was  send  by Reedrick... he also has  a file in The Plank...The Cost of  Spell sphere.. would negate him sending  another   copy for a week or so,,, There was a  cold  Look in the  younger Quickshadow's eyes,...you  may hate  mu successes... but you should not steal coin  and praise from my  comrades...

 Krell waved it off,..I have the file in the Crimson Arrow's  stacks...any one may see them at thier leasure ...

 Bleakroot snaps,..NO!..... he  recovers  almost before finishing the word.....The  report will be read at  the Mainfest tonight....Saving Royal Blood is  a feat to be ...feted!  And to have the Crowd Indebted to us   is even more  worthy of Praise....

 Krell  backed  a step and nodded,As you say, High Elder.

  There was a shake of Kree's head as he locked  at the   warrior woman, who seemed to  care little of the goings  on.

 he snorted  before he took a  sip of his drink...Mother  would be so...'proud'...

..............

may we continue  with the dealing...High Elder? said the Mageling.

..Indeed...  we counted the bottles  of Engar white... it is in its pure  powder form.... there  are 16 bottles in each  chest...for a total of  32....Our Sages  , roughly guess... you would be able to manufactor 6 healign potions  from each bottle.... They alos say.. you could manufactor 4  bottles of  nerve poison.... or  2 bottles of the 'deep thought drug'... some people never come out of that deep thought..and waste away in some dreamworld?

 'course... there's  the thing, ye can mix  an match them...

 ...yes.. that is   the...'clerical'..uses...but Mage uses are much grander... we can touch the planes  with the Drug.. contact  with Demons..and  even those who have died...when mixed  other  rare  powers, or   liquids..they can  have a devastating effect  on enemies ... the  drug can be  varied  with others.. to control people's minds..and...

 ..enough....  if you say much more.. we will not feel it safe to sell any to you.....Now?...what price per bottle  do you offer..

..we hoped to  buy at least one  full chest?

 ..what is yer  price  fer a chest....

 1000 gold... 2500 if you sell us both...

 there were gasps among the   crowd...gold  be tossed about  like it were wheat seeds!

    I am afraid, the price is too low....if the power is what you say..and  more?  I wager  we need to see 500  gold, per bottle....

 The leader slammed his  fist in the table, the other  two didn't even flinch. The MAgeling looked like he  got  slapped across the face....High Elder? we did not bring  near the amount of Coin... even at 100 gold.. a  chest would cost 1600...

 Then?  I am afraid you have made your trip in vain.  The Black Timber Elves and her other people, rarely get to deal  with our  goods.. when we do.. we offer  fair prices, and expect the same from traveling merchants... in this case... we have objects of some power... objects that seem to have been meant for Red Elves, no less....

 ..so? we will permit you to buy, what you feel you can afford .. but the rest of it, we will  let our MAges  , Sages and Clerics  find uses for them..

 The mageling  look offended for the first time, we could only buy 6!..then have  no coin for travel?

 .. Then..ye buy 5 and have  500 fer travel... 500  gold  could take ye to the other side of the great Mists...and back!

 The Leader stands,..The  9 hells  with them then...  we  should take our coin and go, if they do not want it...

 That is your  Option..of  course.. we will not feel slighted, should you keep your  coin... You have 6 hours, before the  sun is hidden by the trees.... you will make your choice then...Until then? feel free to take part in the celebration of  our Arrows' return or browse some of  the shops...food and drink is free this  day...goods..are not. Contact  any of the  Elders , when you are ready.

 The Three eldes    truned  and went their own way...Krell Bleackroot followed the  Wardens back towards  the Coucil house with the chests..

 Grenwal stopped  by Kree's  Table..os? Ye  saved a princess?... gonna look forward to hearing that tonight...

  That is not all you will hear, the story is filled  with..intrigue .

  He   gave Kree a Pounding the shoulder,  almost putting the elf's  face in the boards..now i really wanna bloody hear it!... see ya  tonight

"Before you go, Lord Grenwal, could I have a wee chat with you?"

  Grenwal looks at his  empty mug and frowns, Then back to Orlin,...aye..ye can..if ye had the mid ta follow me ta the Kegs? Been drinking tea and Caffee.. its  past highsun now.. i can start drinkin' the  real stuff!

She gave a chuckle when Kree had to compose himself after the dwarf's friendly attack.

So, what shall we do now? She asks.

   The elf  shrugs,..Relax? I suppose?.. or  we can browse the shops, she if there are any Razorhawk goods you may wish to add  to your closet?

  He  gets up from the table  handing his mug and plate to  a server girl. Come , Let us browse?...  what would you  like to see.

 They passed the Mages who  huddled, The Leader  snapped,..You put them up to this..didn't you!

 Giving him a wave as if shooing away a fly...Careful Lackey.. you are in my  ...'city'..now.... your  armor, your horse?   You could not even best the youngest of the  children here....

  The Leader steps away from the other  two...the driver is  just shaking his head. Put Coin  where  you mouth ends....

 Kree  stopped  and looked around, he  spotted  mute Boy  and called, Carr?  Come here....

 The  Mute boy smiled  as  other  'able bodied  kids  frowned, but  rushed to follow their playmate. Kree  stood  Carr in front of  the Leader...This is   Carr.. he  has no  blood kin..but he is as much a razorhawk as  myself.... he knows the trees.. and the pathways of the  Town...

 Ivy and  two disheveled  women appear from  the direction  of Kree's Home, Ivy calls out,..that overbearing human, cannot  beat a child of the forest!..you are stealing, good Cousin!

 Kree  walked  with the lad

leader and the Lad ( dozens of folks were  following, including Grenwal, who waved  for Orlin to follow.

  Ivy drew a line in the   dirt with his  blade... this is the start and Finish

   Well, Horseman.. you best get your horse, if you think you can  beat this  child of the forest....

 ..i would never use a horse to beat a child, but a whelp of the forest>,, i will do it gladly!

 A bet then? If you win..I will buy a  bottle of the Engar white and gift it  to you...

 what  would you want..if the gods  feel the   whelp should win?

 Two things... The  feather in your helm..and your  Dagger... that should be about even of cost?

 Ivy   looked like he was  drunk, but his eyes were a bit...too clear.....So..Here is the Rules of the Contest.... Carr and the  Horseman, Must enter  the pathway.... and get back to the line.. the first one   back to the line...wins....You may take any path, go between trees.. whatever  you wish.....you may not harm each other We need a  Judge.....

 ..I'll  be the judge.. You Lads  stay away from the Line..don't want no cryin' no matter who wins...

   The Mageling  and driver  came over... the  driver as well.. the riding  MAge was busy with a  Local female.

 ..This is foolish.. that child  cannot be a trained horseman?

  Then... make your  bet. Mageling..people who know the forest..know  its ways.. I will buy you a bottle  as well... You give  me  500 gold if you lose....

 ..you cannot  cover that much, you tree climbing   scum...

 Ivy raises  his  HAnd,..I will help him, with what i have....

 Grenwal nods, you will get thier  bottles.. and we will make certain, they pay us... Razorhawks do not  cheat other  hawks...

  Grenwal, gently, But  Firmly Pushes  Kree away from CArr... there are bets  going back and forth...oddly enough..most are betting on the  child...

 The  Mageling  smiles,...when this is over.. we will have  all the bottles... and the coin as well!

 Linny Comes over  with a parchment  and    a  porcupine quill pen that has plenty of Ink... I will make the book...

 The Leader     gets up on his Horse and Looks at the Child,..I will enjoy beating you.....

 While waiting for book to be made, Grenwal says,..now.. just ta give the  outlander an edge... teh contest is this..... you enter   the pathway.... and return to this line.... the only rule is? You cannot   use the same path  ye take inta the wood...

 The Rider looks about  there are at least three pathw ays  that branch off from the   path they must enter..he grins, knowing the  child cannot  out pace his horse.

 She spent the night curled up in her bedroll near the woods, and the day exploring what there was of the village. She didn't run into anyone she knew and didn't know if there was anywhere to go so she just kept to herself until she saw someone she knew. Then she'd ask about finding somewhere to stay while they were here. Or she'd just sleep at the edge of the woods again.

   a wood cutter who was bringing in wood  for the cook fires, say  Shadowmist,  He  smiled an pointed to the Shatterblade,..this party is  for your band... you get to stay   for free...and eat for free.. though any goods  you wish, you must pay for...other then  that, enjoy the  fest!.. There will be a grand story telling this night, from what i hear..something  that we were not  told, and will be read aloud, by the chief  bard!

 "Oh? But I only just joined! I have earned nothing yet. But I can pay for a meal. Thank you. Do you need help carrying wood? I would be happy to help."

 She offered to help gladly and would if he wished. Otherside she'd buy breakfast and see about a place to stay later.

  The   wood cutter  stop . He waves his hand to the village as if he was casting a spell...Some folk?  they have  just  entered the BAlck Timber.. and  found our  Village as they tried to escape those who would harm them.... Others... make their way her to join the cause... and fight those, who would harm  the one who cannot  defend themselves...Perhaps?  you have not been with them long... But you will earn..every bit of the thanks your team is getting....  The Captain would not have taken you in, had he not  had the feeling you would make the grade.

Brie nods and smiles at relaxing but it is short lived.  She takes a couple of steps back to let Kree and the others take over the rules and betting. She pit in 5 coin on Carr as well.

She crosses her arms as Ivy even shows up.  "You look a fright Ivy," she said to him.

In reply to Brestine Darksbane (msg # 220):

Diana figured it was easy coin.  The kid new the forest inside and out.  The big dumb ass was nothing more then a braggart.

She got a bet for 20 gold.

In reply to Brestine Darksbane (msg # 220):

Lucy was entertained by the spectacle.

This bet was, really a no brainer.

Big, dumb ass comes into the Timber, a place he doesn't know, and wants to put his ego before logic.

This was a sucker's bet.

She put 25 gold on the kid.

Luthien approaches the clerics, having seen a priest of his own order there.

He bows upon arrival. "Father."

He likewise node respectfully to the other two.

In reply to shadowmist (msg # 219):

 "Thank you for your information. I will go get breakfast then. If you ever need a hand, let me know. Goodbye for now Mr. Cutter. Have a rewarding day."

 She headed for the inn, knowing that any work she did in this village would need to be "honest" work, for she would not bite the hand that fed her. She looked around as she went waving and smiling at those she passes.

 Before she reached the inn, she saw Kree and others gathered around some horsemen. She drifted over to see what was going on. She grins as she sees what's going down.

 "Here horseman! I'll bet 7 golds on the forest waif! Put your money where your mouth is!"
This message was last edited by the player at 08:25, Fri 05 May 2017.

     The Cutter smiles at Shadowmist as he says,..if ye ever  settle inta the timber..wood cutting is a easy enough job, as long as yer smart enough ta cut dead wood!....

................

  The  Clerics  all turn to Luthien, The  Fellow from  Tra  smiles,..Have a seat... and get some food and drink! It is not everyday we have a unit return.... I hear there will be  quite the storytelling  tonight!

...................

 Ivy  Looks at  Brie  and  Grins,.. The Ladies   think, I look just fine, Aye  , LAdies?
 The two  Giggle  and stand  against each other  as  Ivy's eyebrows  move up and  down.

  Grenwal watches  Linny as he marks down the Bets. I will warn all... you may bet what you wish...but should you try to not pay?... it counts against you as stealing... and the verdict will be harsh...

 The  leader  grins  and Nods as he once more, looks down at the child,..best be careful Lad... Horses do not know rules.. I would stay away from his hooves....


 Carr looked at the  Horse the  hooves  are  stomping into the  , slightly soft , ground.. a wrong  step could snap  the boy's   arm or leg like a twig... he merely  looks  away from the   Horse  staring straight ahead at the path...


  Krell stands as he sees/hears what is Going on , standing   from  his  spot  with his paramour , the  Edler  begins to move towards the  growing  crowd with a purpose.. Bleakroot    Holds out a Hand...allow them to wager... this is a fest, after all...

 ..Kree is planning something.... I think it unfair to the mages if...

 ..if...what, Elder Quickshadow? That one of our own outsmarts  an outlander? We win , in either case... should the boy lose this....contest.... We show our honor  by paying out debts..... If we will,  the stories will travel  about and reach the  ears of outlanders...and giving them pause , should they try to cheat us.....either way?..it  is  part of the gaming that goes on in any Fest...

 Krell Nods  slowly, But his  eyes  are focused on Kree.. a stern Frown shows his thoughts do not match  the High Elder's.

   Grenal  holds up  his Mug,are all bets placed?...

 The riding Mage was looking around at the growing crowd... coin was changing hands  as people heard of the Contest.. he noted, none  from  The Timber, wagered on the Horseman..while those  travelers in the  Village  wagered against the  child.

  The driver just smiled, standing off to the side with a drink and  some crème filled pastry ...the driver's  smile, was enough  for the  Riding  Mage to keep his  coin in his pocket

"There are many stories to tell. Faith has a way of bringing people home, one way or another."

Nonetheless, he joins the clerics when a place is offered to him,

   there are foods   set out, others are being cooked and served  as  folks  ask.

   The Cleric of Harg smiles a bit,..so.. How  does  a Holy warrior  get tied in with the Arrows?  We have had Clerics, of course..but many of them are as much for the coin, as the Arrows themseleve?

 The Cleric of tra  shakes his head,..I will not  speak ill of the Arrows... there  may be a few who are darker  then others, but in the end...they serve good, more then they serve  Evil.

In reply to Orlin (msg # 213):

    "Heh, drinkin is what got me stuck in the lowlands.  I can handle it but the old one seems to be able to use it to take control."

Brie stood next to Kree but would often look around and see everyone's reactions.  She noticed Krell watching Kree as if Kree was in the process of doing a bad deed.  She shook her head and whispered into Kree's ear.

Looks like father dearest isn't too fond of wagers, she mumbled.  Wonder how many times he's lost a bet.  To you.

In reply to luthein (msg # 227):

Luthien has told this story before...

"It's a matter of temperance. The Arrows are very good at making sure justice falls to the guilty. My job is to pick out those who do not deserve death and spare them that fate.

   The Clerics  and nod  with smiles,..it has been a while , since  Young Quickshadow's Unit has past through.. we hope we see more of your   Group....  Clerics are more often wanders ... when we  see a holy warriros  with a group , such as the Arrows. it just gives  us pause to think.

 ..Indeed... there are  groups out there, that are comprised of Holy folk..whether they bee  for  light, dark, or greay...or even...mixed?.. I am sure you will see such folk. Young Quickshadow  has 'ner been the same, since they burned the holding of the Slavemaster who sent the slavers into  the Black Timber, in gusie if  merchants..... Burned the holding down with any slaves who had fought for thier master.... gave over the slavemaster's  children to golbins... and  his wives to orcs... then he staked the  ban to the door off his  manse.. before lighting it afire...sadly there are  two slavers of that group who are un accounted for.... Kree and Ivy seek them..yet.

 ..with the  death of  slavers  as common as rain.. one should think they have fled the realms... perhaps go through the great Mists?...but then again..Kree and Ivy  hunted some there as well....in the end.. they will hunt, until they find them... and kill what they feel needs killed.
This message was last updated by the GM at 18:37, Fri 05 May 2017.

   The  Bets are made..  Grenwal stares  as Kree  until Kree moves  back a few more  paces. Upon hearing   Brie, Kree says  quietly...My father seeks to be the Elder, that  brings   the Black Timber Under the Emperor's rule...of course  if that happens... the Emperor will need some one here he can trust to rule it.....

 he waves a hand towards the  two magelings  at the start line,..making humans look like fools, is not a good way to do that....

 RIGHT THEN!... when the horn Blows.. ye start the contest... ye must enter  the path, and return by a differant  path... first one back to the bloody line..is the winner...

   Ivy helps move  folks  back of the Line.. people  are amost deadly quiet, when Grenwal Nods to the horns man... the Felow  Blow the horn...
  The Leader    veers to his left almost running the child over, and covering the kid  with mud and  dead leaves... the  kid  shakes it off  and runs into the path.

 The Horse  and man act as one,  they  reach the  fork,  and the man leans to have the Horse take the shortest  route ( that he could see)... He is laughing as he does...

 The Kid  passes the entrance to the  path... he  stops...  moves  around the nearest tree to his left...and walks  around the tree... and jogs  up to the Line..

  as he  Crosses the Line, the Horse man  is  just coming out of the path, some 20 yards  away.. he hears  cheers..he thinks  is for himself... until he  sees  Kree  Lifting the Kid  above hisn head.. the kid is waving his arms  about.... a voiceless cheer  coming from a tongueless mouth.

 Grenwal  Points to Carr....THE WINNER!

  The Leader  Jumps off his horse , before it even stops.. the Mageling  is screaming.....That's not   the race!...  he didn't   take any path.. he didn't race the  Horse man!

 Grenwal  looked to them..with a grim , harsh  voice.....none of our folks, called it a race....young Quickshadow  told you...knowledge  of the forest... and  who would get back to the line..... The Body took a path around the nearest tree.. he entered the path.. and returned,  from a different  direction... Carr..though as a  person of the forest.... you thought, of as a person of the cities.....

 The Mageling was crushed,...but..you did not explain?

 Kree   was  still holding the smiling child in the air,... i explained well enough for a  8 year old human child to understand?... i did not prompt him in any way.... he...outsmarted you...on his own.  then he   put the lad  Gently on the ground. Ivy moved up behind the child.

 ..now?  It is time to pay your debts.... i fear, this will cut  deeply...into you buying power...

 The Horseman  took off his  Helm , wiggling the    giant feather from  the top,  he  unstrapped the dagger  as he went to hand it to  Kree..

 Kree shook his head,..give it the Lad... he collects feathers,,, for what reason? i do not know... but i am certain he does not have a Griffon feather....

 The   Leader hand the   boy the  belt and Dagger  first, then  , gently , the feather.

  He looks at the child,... i have the dread feeling  , you will be an Arrow  someday...

 The  child  held the dagger and belt  and Feather..smiling   his eyes  full of happy tears. Meanwhile the Mageling    handed Kree 500 gold, for their Bet...  and the Two Mage Guild Members  moved back to the table they were sitting... the driver  was pocketing some coin as well.

  Kree calls out,..Another Tail to be told... Carr's Contest with  the Mage Guild!  Loa  came over and  kneels besides  the boy,..that will be  the grandest feather in your collection!

  There is a smile on Ivy's face,..more so, in that, he earned with his  own  mind..and feet!.

 Kree  was counting the coin   and Motioned  for  Linny to come to him....200 gold... to be used  for  Carr, and yourselves for caring for him.... use it wisely

  Linny nods  to   Kree , then to Carr,.. indeed!.. we have a  box  for  coin Carr own on his own, he  is saving, for what?  we do not know.. but he  will get half of this  for his box.. the other have, we will use  to  aid in food and clothing...

 Kree  turned  and  fuzzed the Kids head,..get your prizes  home...  i hope to hear your story tonight , at the tellings!

 Carr looked at Linny who nodded, and the Boy ran off to their home.

   Kree counts out  30 gold for each Ivy, and  Brie.....loks like the Arrows  get some windfall , this night.

 making his way through the crowd..he hunts  down his Arrows giving them each 30  gold from what is left of the price money.

Orlin had put in what coin he had and was greatfull that it was well invested.

  To Grenwal. "Indeed, the boy has earned a reward.  It might be wise for one Adult to ride with him.  No one too heavy..."  Orlin is inerupted by the staff.  It sounds nhappy but no one can understand it.  "Did you want the boy falling off?"  The staff mumbles something.  "Of course you have a say, but it should be the boy's choice."  More mumbling.  "Well then you can say no."  a little more. "So Kree's an option, and who else."..."Why the Druidess?"...."Whoa, there my friend.  No matchmakin.  What about the Dwarf, he okayed it."...Orlin turns too Grenwal, "He says Dwarves like to keep their feet on the ground so you would never go fer it."

   Grenwal watches   Orlin speak to the    staff....  I  have been to the Top of the Jigh peaks  twice in my Lifetime... as high as any dwarf  to  climb... an' that is a rgand view , fer  certain.... But  i had  solid stone 'neath, me feet!

  ye have some  women folk  in yer unit? Ask one of them? Not of them look like they eat more then one meal a day!

..........

 The Mages  sat as  they licked their  wounds, trying to figure out  , what they can buy.. The Sun was going  'down'.. though outside the forest ,there would be another  2 or  3 hours of daylight... The trees stole the light  early as the  orb dipped below the tops of the  mountainous trees.

..................
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:22, Fri 05 May 2017.

In reply to fest (msg # 234):

   "Kree helped us when we were in need.  The Druidess offered help for no reason other than we were part of the group, as did you.  The old ones are very selective in these things."

  Grenwal nods to  Orlin once more,.. well if    the old one will allow a ride for a child who has not had much joy in his   like... This is a day he'll remember.. and with the ..not so gentle command... The Bards will have his story wrote!

Diana watched the race intently.  When the boy dipped around the tree, she began to laugh.

Of course!

She had figured there was some "catch" to the whole thing.  A reason everyone was so confident in the boy.

She couldn't help but smile.

Lucy watched the "race" and began to laugh as the kid won the "race."  It had been a sucker's bet from the outset.

She collected her winnings, giving half to the kids who had began following her around since she come out of the inn.

"Kitty Lady" it seemed was very popular among the kiddies.

After the race, she found herself playing with the kids.  It was something she hadn't planned for.  It just seemed to happen.  She certainly wouldn't have planned it.  After a few hours, she broke away, much to the disappointment of the kiddies, and went  to find something else to do.  Well, at least for a while, till the kids found "Kitty Lady" again, and she once again got roped into playing with them.

Brie takes the coin and looks around.  She pats Kree on the arm that she was stepping away and would return promptly.

She walked towards Krell and takes all but 10 of the earned coin and places it in his hand.

This is for Madame Quickshadow and tending to her.  I best not hear "she's"not being cared for.

She gives Krell a serious look of her own, nods to the human female at his side and then turns to head back to Kree without giving Krell a moment to speak.

In reply to luth (msg # 231):

"Again, a matter of temperance. One does not wish to burn wheat with chaff. That is my task, then, to make sure those who do not need to die don't. It helps balance their colder moments, and that makes the whole unit better."

Luthien pauses, and adds, "In deference to the unit I choose to work with, however, to those who read dark, I simply do not interfere, and let them do as they will."

And Kree does hand out VERY brutal punishments.

"Besides, if he would hunt, it makes sense to bring a Hunter, does it not?"

   With Winnings   paid out, the  Village and visitors went  back to their business , whether it be having  fun, selling wares, and helping  run the  fest.

 While  Brie  went to 'visit' Krell.. Kree and  Ivy   split up and hunted down Arrows to give their Coin to

  Kree found  Rolf, enjoying  different types of meats, as well as samplings of  ale.

   Ivy  found Laf and Shadowmist in the  in to give them  their shares.

  Orlin was one of the fist to get his, since he was near the contest, Kree  give him a  Nudge,..do not get used to this?.. not all folk are as foolish as  magelings!

 Kree Last person to  find, was Luthien, with the Clerics. He  place the stack of  Coins by the  holy warrior with a grin.

 The Tra  Cleric   rasied a hand and  as Kree, as he was about to turn away,..a moment..Captain? What god..or Gods do you give credit  for your success.. the  clerics  eyes  darted in amusement  with his fellows  as they  waited.

  The elf   turned  with his halfsmile he said.....I am not  fool enough to  think any one god aids  us,  nor am i fool enough to think, we cound not succeed, without the people in my unit.... Eta  and Neta, get much credit... others get credit as thier  due allows... even  Vert?... his  wand motions   to the area of the Village where the MAgelings  wait for  the Elders to arrive,..for  how often  does  chance lay fools like this  before us?

 The Harg cleric asks , honestly,..and you do not  fear, that the Sisters  may grow angry at you choice of them as a pair?..Rather then holding one higher?

 there was a growing Smile,..I am not a cleric, nor  even holy warrior. But i spread their names through my actions...I use a bow  and Blade equaliy ... to be good at only one, would limit me...The Sisters... I feel... understand this.... they also understand, that should good luck and Bad luck cancel each other out... that would only leave Chance.. and  few people would survive a life , built wholy on that...he smiles at his pun..htne  waves   as he  heads over to watch the final dealing with the magelings..

  Brie walks  away from Krell , he looks a bit  embarrassed , if not  angry. The woman   gives a bit of a giggle,we now have more coin to drink with...

  Ivy   finds Lucy with some Kids... he does not   bother her, but stands  off to watch, until they  break up to do other things. He hands her  , her  stack of coin.... one thing, to think on, as you wear that Arrow?...At least half of those  children , have no families  alive, but are cared for by  people  who know loss, and are, kind of heart.... some folk ask why the Arrows  are so harsh on slavers and bandits... it is easy, when you raise your blade to one, while having an image of  these little ones, in the back of your mind..

 Diana is the last one he finds, Handing her the coin,..and thus?.. we find the Arrows reaping  rewards The Sister  bestow on us....  there is a grin,..and..we also must thank the   large  egos of foolish men!

 She thanked Ivy for handing her her winnings, and offered her a gold for luck. She always tried to give back for luck because she knew luck was fickle. She smiled and went to find the boy who had won the race to try to give him a coin as well, for winning.

 "Here's a coin for luck! Buy something fun."

 Once all the excitement was over, she went to browse along the market area to see if there was anything she might want or need.

  The Mageling   and his people sat on one side of the table.  Bleakroot , grenwal and Krell sat on the other  side.

 The woman stood  Behind Kree..only to be  pushed  back  by  Kree who seemed to to care he was  a bit more, then a head shorter then the Northman women..

 She  was about to say something, But Kree held Up his left hand , as if signaling  a group to halt,silence.... this is   clan business... you are nay clan, nor Arrow.. so you may stay, only if you are quiet.  Wardens  had  moved folks  back a bit ( even Kree was behind the line) leaving the  groups  to deal.

 The Mageling  said, in a sorrowful manner,....the  recent 'contest'...has  depleted  some of our  funds... before  we continue, what are the chances of  credits, for  coin to come?

 Bleakroot looks to the Dwarf, who says..,..ain't no bloody chance.... ifin we go to the city to buy a sheath  of arrows, and we are a copper or two short... they will nay sell us the full sheath... thus... we must try as best we can..to be equal with  the ....civilazed  cities....

 The Mage Nodded as he looked down at the sheet in his hands, they had been  pushing numbers   as soon as they paid out their losses.

 ..You are dealing, much too harsh... we are not your enemies...

  Perhaps , you are not. Bleakroot says,...and..perhaps..in time, should  your guild make more trips to the   Timber to deal fairly  in merchandise and goods.. we  would set up a  credit system for you....but this is the first time the Tou Mage  guild has ventured this far to do business...though we know you travel to other  cities..and even the Trace wood ? So.. you are treated  as first time merchants until you show that here is commerce between us...

 The Leader   frowns,..if you treat us  , thus? This may be the last time  we have dealings...

 Grenwal speaks up,..then we don't lose  'nuthin' then..do we.... ye need, or want that Engar white...the bloody stuff should be returned to the sea elves...'cept they'd  sell it to the damanable reds too!...so.. we either keep it fer our own use..which..costs  us nothin'  or we  sell some ta you folks  and make some coin..

  The MAgeling  nods slowly, ...we  only have  enough coin to buy 4 flasks at 500 gold each.. and it wil give us some coin, incase we need it on the road.

 Krell says,..perhaps.. we could  deal...High Elder.. to allow the Mages a few more..since they  did pay their contest debts... it would show  good will and...

 Kree laughs.. Krell shot him a hard look, But Grenwal was already answering.

 it is my thoughts, that this is not a good practice? we..as a people, have not  been shown any good  will by the Magelings.... how many of us have  purchased items  from the Guild in Tou?  he looks around, no one  raises   a hand.....an' how many  times has the Guild brought  good here to sell?

 again there is no answer...

 ..there ya have it..they are here, cause they chased after Arrows who intercepted  illegal goods, that were , most like..intended fer the damn Reds....Illeagl or Nay.. they are here..now..an' should be used ta fight  what we stand against... if we can make a few coin, sellign a few to they Guild..fine.. they can buy what they can afford.... but not one more, until our  people are treated fairly....

 The Leader  Turns  to the Dwarf, the smile he gave Krell was gone as it looked at the dwarf,...Then, Elder. You may find you get , no merchants at all?

 Bleakroot says, calmly..but there is a hint of Ice in his voice...we  fight raiders and slavers in the  Sands... the people of the great  desert  trade with us..and  faily..so much so..we opened  a passage way that leads to the desert, so they need not travel as far.... The folks on the coast, and the trace wood trade with us... and  we send  merchants out to sell our own goods...

 He looks at Krell, then  a slight  glance back at Kree, before facing the Leader again,our traveling merchants , are nay treated fairly... as  they people of the towns  know, they would rather not bring back what they have taken with them, so they may have more room, to bring new things back...something, most cities  do not need to worry about.

 There is a sigh, as  Bleakroot ,looks towards the trees,..the  time for dealing with outlanders is  almost at an end.. the rest of the night  is for  Village merchants, and of course, the celebration..so?.. do you wish the 4..or nay?

 The leader slams his hand on the table...

 .... we  will take the 4 then , High Elder.. it is better, not to return  with none....

  grenwal  says,..yer coin then?

 The riding mage   pushed   the Pouch that has a parchment  in it.....2000 gold , High Elder..it is counted and marked  with my name...

 grenwal  Nods to the  Wardens  and hold up 4 thick fingers... an officer  takes out   four and  sets the  glass bottles  with a pure white  powder  infront of the Mages.

 ...I hope.. this  is a good learning experiance, not just for you...but  for   the Guild, and towns. Do not treat us  as if we were  bumpkins, eager to thrown coin away....If ever   regular trade is opened  between Tou and the Black Timber... we will  provide  wardens to guard the roads, at least, to the   bridge.

 The riding MAge   begins to wrap the  bottles in leather and hands them to the Driver.

 The leader  snorts,..i doubt if many in  Tou will wish to make the trip...now.

 ..again.. we do not lose nothing, that we did not have before....Enjoy the rest of the fest..

 The Maeling   nods slowly, there is  bitterness in his voice,..i think..it is time  for us to go.... we have nothing to celebrate....

 Krell says,..you will be safe within the woods... but our  wardens will go no further then the camp at the Hillocks...

 the Magelings go  to put away their  purchases and make the cart ready to go...The wardens  take the rest of the   powder and the coin to the Council building.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:34, Sat 06 May 2017.

In other deals, Luthien commissions a silvered sword and a cold iron sword, for use against creatures vulnerable only to such things. He also commissions two special quivers of arrows...20 with silver tips, 20 with cold iron tips. Not part of his usual quiver, they'll be saved only for when they're needed.

(this is after any conversations with the priests)

Brie walked about and spoke with some of the people in the village.  She eventually found Kree but it wasn't long before Krell and the female came along too.

She nudged gently with her elbow to Kree's.  She didn't say anything as he was in mid conversation.

  People  were beginning to gather... Bards  were   setting up for song.  the  only business allowed now, would be that of  local Merchants.

 ......

 For Luthien.... he talk with  weapons makers  and fletchers  and such,  The  Arrow  MAkers   could have  such Arrows ready, by the time they leave...The Blades would take some time ( unless he wanted one 'off the rack')

    for the others   they  can browse  the shops and stalls set up. Mercahnts  are merchants , after  all and this is  a good  time to sell..especially with food and  drink for  no cost!

   Linny and Loa mad sure  Carr was  sitting up front by the stage, for  when the bards  would tell his tale.

   Krell and   The woman ( Azra)   approached ,  Kree smile  as he talked to a woman who was asking questions  about the whole Princess thing..faded away... as did the woman.

  Well?  Are you proud? You may have set the MAge Guild against us for all time....  The  woman  had a hand on her him and  looked down on Kree and D
Brie ( literally )

 ..Let us  think on that, Father? what happens had they  did not  treat us  rug saleman? And I sell them the Engar White?.....They would not have been sending  any fewer or any more..merchants  our way?... Had  i  gave into them, before  we left the city?.... They would think us, only  worried for Coin..nothing  better they gooding   orcs... So>. i stood my  ground... i slapped them  in the  face, with the same pride they wounded...and..they did not like it..They bartered  with us, as we were betters....why?..Because they needed..or wanted the powder, badly....now?  they go back..outtsmarted  by an 8 year old, human...RAZORHAWK BOY!

 people looked   briefly at the out Burst burst but turned  away... Krell was  getting   read faced when Azra  snapped,..your  son does not  know his   Place... in my lands.. he would be slapped down...

 Kree   snapped back,..Listen Ogress... no one here gives a damn in the 9 hells what your people  would do..its  all you  can do to try to string a sentence together, without screaming a  war cry....

 Then he  titled his head at Krell, Tell me  Father? what happened  to the dusky skinned  caravan  wench that was with you the last time.... or... the   Human woman for  The Furman's  Chain... or  whom ever else you chose to  dirty the bed that was  My mother's

  Krell's  arm   came up swift to slap Kree.. But Kree's hand caought it , with ease, at the  same  Motion he blocked a swipe from the large human woman...

 The elder's  hand  shook as he tried to Press   towards  Kree's face, But  Kree held him with ease,..and You...woman?  pray to eta, and Neta...or even Vert... that you did not lose  that hand this day....

 Kree pushed  down his fathers  HAnd,..I am strong, Father...  i need to wield  Blade and bow  with both hands... what exercise  i do not get in practice... i get  taking   the lives of my enemies....Do not become and Enemy of my Clan....

  Krell looked shaken, as  did his PAramour, as  Kree  turned to walk,...let us go, Listen to Carr's  tale.... at least he is a razorhawk of worth...

 grenwal  Appears out of the  crowd,..you risk much..going head to head with your  father..who is also an Elder.....

 .. I risk , nothing, Good Grenwal... i know my place in the Village.. I know my place in its history....Tell me... did you think we should have catered to the magelings...?

 The dwarf  grabbed  Kree's shoudlers  and Laughed  shaking him about  as though he were a child...Ack!...no Laddie? If it were up ta me,, i would have charged them fer the bottles too..or make them carry the bloodly power home in thier hands!


   they stod by , allowing townsfolks to hear some tales of great Hunts... or wonders of the forest...and..of course love  tales... But Carr's take started, it began as horrid as it was... btu belended into  his choice to stay in the Timber... and the acceptance  of him.. the story of the contest was  polished a bit more.....making the Leader a bit more  dark... and Carr a bit more  Heroic ... when it  was over    the people clapped and cheered.. CArr looked around smiling ..CARR!.....

 The  Lad stood and Turned  as  kree  reached into his tunic and tosses  a Pin to him, he nimbly caught it... and looked,..Welcome, to the Crimson Arrows...

 More folks cheered..some of his 'friends ' who picked on him were shocked..maybe  jealous..other    were happy for the Lad  who count not  speak.

Luthien decides the best way to do things is get one 'off the rack' version of the good old common longsword (in silver and cold iron) and then commission special versions of those weapons (dedicated to Tra) to use later. For now, though, preparedness is the idea.

Orlin swings by the Druidic part of the village to go through his herbs with the healers there.

 Orlin's  path takes him out to the west a bit more.. even though  he is only about  500 yards or so from the Village  proper.. it seems darker and more  quiet.

 He can see faint Light  coming from  a Cottage, as he gets closer  he can see a  ring of 13  Cottages.. some have  lights on, some do not. in the  center of the cottage is  a very old Black Oak tree.

Otlin strolls up and places his hand on the tree. "Hello old mother.  It's good to see you looking after these people."  His staff flickers but doesn't say anything.

Brie would have stepped up and partook in defending Kree, but this was his fight.  He knew who his enemy was, how to play the game.

This, Brie knew, why she cared for him so much.  In so many ways, they were the child of a parent who thought less of them, underestimated them.

She smiled but turned to look at the taller human woman as if challenging her to say anything.  Brie remained quiet and when Kree called for them to go, she took steps backing away from Krell and Azra.  She took Kree's hand and walked with him to the seating for the bards tell.

When she had a moment to speak between the telling of Carrs story, she leaned over and whispered in Kree's ear.  I see why you completely understood me and my mom's relationship, if you call it that.

She patted his arm, gave him a smile, and went back to watching the show.

  Kree chuckles,..he was tough to live  with, before  my mother's passing... it is worse  since he became an Elder.  I am uncertain, whether he fails to see , the women use him for his position...or if he uses his position, to use the women....

  They settle in after Carr's  tale  to listen  to a few more  songs  and stories..before  Kree asks if she wants to look at the shops, or if there are good  she needs  for when the set off tomorrow .

  Bleakroot stops    by Kree , as the  bards  set the stage for  the next act....Captain?...  Does your  Unit  have any thing to hunt ?

  There have  been reports of  a Missing Unit   near the trace Wood...  I have, with purpose...had my group come here... i did not  want  the others to know we would be  coming in from the   the town of Mok's  direction...

 ..You think  something is amiss?

 Aye...we had three other  captains in the Plank..Orria and Malog..I trust.. I have no trust...nor  Love for Carn... The Trace area is his area..yet he has   found nothing?... Orria is the one who got the first tidings.... Malog contirmed those .  when he was  near Lake Orre... Carn is a Human who took over  for a former Razorhawk, when she died... So... we  will travel through the Black Timber towards the south .. we will leave near the  opening that the Desert folk use  for trade and   follow the  Lather  river    Until we  reach the trace Wood  area.. then we  will move   further inland  to see what we can find...

 Bleakroot nods  slowly... you should stop at Mok..and ask there?

 we could, it will mean a ferry ride  both ways..but , it would be a good place to ask about. mayhaps  pick up a contract of two?

 The High Elder smiled,..i was going to ask  for your  unit to make a sweep of the boarder between the  Timber and the Swamp..but we have enough Wardens  for such things.....

 As he turns  to Leave he says,..your  Nickname is  well earned,  Young Captain...it makes an old one proud, that when he hears  that name Mentioned by travelers , that i know that is one of our clan, who bears it...

   Thank You...High Elder. I am not  a lair, so i will not say, i do not like  to hear the title... in all truth, i can say... i love to see the eyes of the enemy when they hear it...

 ..enjoy  the  Night, Captain...Lady Arrow....
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:34, Sun 07 May 2017.

  The Black oak is only rivaled by the tallest of the  older Ironwood tress...  the  Grith of the  trunk could have been the Center of  Razorhawk  Village.

  There is some movement  about...a few of the druids  heading , either into the  Village..or into the   field, just outside the   circle of  Cottages.

Brie thinks briefly over a few ideas and mentions that she'll tend to them before she leaves.

Definitely not an ideal fatherly figure that's certain, but neither were either of my own.  I never even met my father, but my half brother appeared to be quite dangerous.  I can only saw the apple didn't fall far from the tree there.

She listens as the other comes to speak with and nods when he mentions her name.

Then again, one in higher authority typically thinks in over abundance of what their power actually entails.  I would say both.  Not good either way.

In reply to Orlin (msg # 253):

Rather than intruding, Orlin sits beneath the tree and waits.

      while the  'contest' between CArr and the MAge guild horseman was about to start,  Two Wardens  escorted  an elven fellow into Razorhawk Village.

 The  fellow is given back his  Bow  and sword,.... You may stay the night, enjoy the Fest...food is free as is  drink..but  goods you must pay for... If you wish to stay.. or  will be looking for work, ask about the Village... we can always use more  Wardens... or you can be one of.... THEM...

 The  SGT's hand points to a few people walking about,..Crimson Arrows... They are the Black Timber's Merc force...not only  helping fill our coffers.. but making slavers and the like , fewer , in the realms..... and?  do not   try to run off in the night...none know you... and you already had your free pass  through the wood....should you not wish to remain..wait until sunrise...

 The two wardens  seem to  melt into the trees... Gareth is standing, watching  scores of people.. Humans, half elfs..even an Orc or two... btu mostly Elves Though all color of hair  can be seen..Black and  Reddish HGair , seem the most common on these elves.. though brown and blonde can be seen too.

.................


   Just as Kree and Brie were about to leave.. The  Bard announces  that the Tale of the Princess would be told.. the story winds its way through the Mision..of Arrows  new  and old and of those that fell.. the  treachery of a handmaiden..and the tricks  used through out the  mission by the  Arrows.... overly hyped, in the TAle , was Luthien and the Princess's  'closeness'...and   rumored connection...

  In the ned,. the  story is pretty close to  the truth, as the  unweaving of the web in Court brought  about huge  Cheers... The Emperor  always had a soft spot  for The Black Timber... and he was painted more wise in this story, then the fact had shown.

............

  the Others  weaved in  and out of the Crowd,,, Ivy sat under a tree with three women who seemed intent on keeping him warm and well fed...a few times his name  was mentioned ( as were all the Arrows)  He  cheered and so did his  ladies.

In reply to goings on (msg # 256):

I look around in bewildérment, Spotting a red-headed half-elf in hunting gear. I amble over and say"I am Gareth Greenbow newly arrived wherever this place is. May I join you, for I don't understand what happened. Following a rogue half-orc toward this mountain, when suddenly the mountain disappeared and I was in the woods. Two guards found me and brought me here"       

Luthien just mutters, "For the 50th time, I didn't...oh, what's the use? If that's the tale going around, that's what people will believe..."

  The Fellow looks at the Elf,well met..... you don't have the look for a trace Wood  elf..and you sure aren't an Ironwood elf...

 He motions  for a server,..best get  your drinking it tonight..we'll have to start  paying again, once the  Arrows  leave..


 ..to answer you...This is the Black Timber... who of the Crimson Arrows.. though that group carries the name with more favor then others.... You did  well not to get flat out killed, by the Wardens.. they  do not allow too many to roam with out at elast one shaft sticking out of them!

Brie looks over at Luthien and smiles.

Best to let the bards have their moment of near truth.  Gives some great tales for others to learn.  Besides, a great ice breaker for someone that you may be intersted in later.

She gives him a wink.

In reply to gareth (msg # 259):

"I thank you, sir. Well I don't know why they brought me here, but if they shot at me, it would have been their last."

  a Small Cat appears  by the tree... it   moves a bit closer...it meows  and   tilts its head.

   There is a person  calling a name  Looking in brush  and bushes  around one of the Cottages that does not have lights on.

In reply to Brestine Darksbane (msg # 260):

"It is hardly proper to use a conquest I didn't actually have in effort to get...more conquests."

He's chiding a little, but he seems more amused than anything. Besides, Luthien may not be human, but he's attractive enough that inflating tales is beneath him.

Lafisual finishes up his morning meal and then heads out.  Moving outside he looks around and starts a slow walkabout around the village.  He listens and stops at various places along the way and tries to get at least a basic knowledge of the village and where everything is.  He smiles at folks he sees and eventually tries to find a temple.

  The fellow  chuckles  as  a Bottle of Elven Gold is brought to him, He pours  some   for himself and for the new fellow.

 ..I grew up in the   Grasslands, Until slavers  raided our patch Houses... Arrows   brought the survivors here.. we were gievn the chocie to stay or  move to  some other  lands  once we were ready... I stayed, as do most.....Arrows?.. are only as good  as their  Skill and their Leader..... Wardens?... they protect the   Timber.. for everyone you see... there are 20 more   you do not.... The story goes, thaat  HArgen's  troops poured  down the High Peak Mountains bent on destroying    ironmound as it was in its  birth stages?

 He  sipped some of the  wine grinning,..The Iron wood  elves  fought  hard... against them, as they were the first to be hit...besides the High Peak dwarves....   The Ironwood  Horse  men  Moved to the Stom river  to   form a line of  defense  for the  meager  Palasaides that served  as the Budding City's  walls......The Hargen Commander.... veered away from the  city..intent on stoppign   The Balck Timber Elves  from entering the Battle.. None stepped  up to Elf the Black Timber    fight off the   Hordes of Orcs, Goblins, Humans and all manner of   dark recruits ... The trace Wood  elevs..sent  troops... and that helped  as  some of the HArgen Horde   had to veer off to meet them... and few  companies of High Peak Dwarves ignored orders  and   charged from the    make shift walls to  aid the allies  from having the wood  sieged...

 ..That little bit of aid, was all The Black Timber needed. The stories  say  Arrows   darken the sky ...  Flight after flight... ..Hargen troops  fell like  wheat to  a summer hail storm.. When they  drew Closer, climbing the piles of Bodies, they were  met  by  the wardens, who stood  some 20 yards  infront of the tree line..firing arrows  as  fast as they could  nock them... children ran from  the woods  to   place  fresh quivers  but the  Wardens....   and when the Time  Came, the Wardens    met them with steel


 ..The Black Timber.. also fought for iteslf... forest runners charged from the trees to tear   bodies  apart.... Razorhawks  flew  down in their flocks tearing   at faces of the  Hargen troops... The legend  says  , no  HArgen trooper  entered the tree line, at any point.... and what was left of the horde was cut  down by the horsemen from the Trace  Wood and the savage  High peak Dwarves... They say.. to this day... the Commander of that horde  is  kept alive by dark magic, as he is tortured every day for his mistake..in not attacking the   city...

  There are some   folks  clapping at the  red haired fellows story.. a fe coins   find their  way  by his   mug.

Brie looks over to Kree once it appeared that the Bards were done and tilted her head.  You ready to take a walk and look at the shops before doing anything else, she asks.  Her eyes are a twinkle from all the excitement, except hold a slight hint of concern over what happened with Kree and his Father.

  The elf   Nods  as he gets  Up... He has a  bit of a grin  as he motioned to Luthien,..Sir Luthien...My friends!

  Though most folks knew.. the confirmation was al it took... people  began to gather  around the  Holy Warrior asking questions   of the  Mission... how pretyt was the Princess ..the  the King  Offer you anything special..and al manner of  questions..

  Kree gave a wink  and they ehaded  to the  'street' ,  that was behind the   Village Center where shops were open,hoping to make coin on the Fest.

In reply to Gareth (msg # 265):

Gareth is impressed with the tale of this land. "So the Ironmén are in cahoots with the orcs?

I was out hunting one day and came home to find it burned to the grôud and my family slaughtered. I have been hunting orcs and goblinoids ever since."

In reply to Brie (msg # 267):

Sir Luthien politely handles all the questions. He does make it clear that nothing tawdry happened, and...he also made it clear that the princess earned her Arrow from the Captain. Given where they are, if word of that gets around, she might find more allies lurking about then she ever knew she had. Royalty needed that, sometimes.

   The red Headed fellow smiles,..though you wouldn't get  many   Black Timber elves to admit it.. the Ironwood  Elves   fight aganst evil as well... they  just are more easy to support the  Empire then Most....

 his hand motions to the    northwest,..high peak Dwarves..they are a stern and sturdy Bunch.... they allied with   Us... and they weren't turning thier back on The Timber..trace Wood is mostly Wild Elevs..but they never   refused to aid us...

 He holds up a finger,..The Black Timber supports the   Emperor.... we just  make sure our folk are taken care of  first.......we  send  troops to the City on rotation.. most serve as archers  aboard the  warships..both  sea and  rivers... Others ..Like the Captain, found thier way into the Palace  Guard, but that  did not last long... The Captain?  Can be a bit..... abrasive. Some folks  say he has a chip on his shoudler?.. I say he has a whole damned tree...

  His chuckle is cut short as he sees Ivy and his Ladies behind him..what is the matter  Crowder?. I wanted to hear more about my cousin?

 ..I didn't mean anything  by it  Master Nightblade.. i was just gibing this outlander a heads up..is all?

 Ivy Grins,..good idea.... enjoy the night...   and he begins to walk away with the ladies.

In reply to Orlin (msg # 262):

   Orlin reaches down and scratches it behind the ears.  Does it run away?

  The  Cat  tries to grab his   Finger  with its   front  paws and meows a few times.. meanwhile the figure  is walking around hissing out  a name, and Lokign  around refuse barrels  and wood piles..

In reply to Orlin (msg # 272):

    Orlin chuckles and scoops it up.  He rumbles loud enough for the other person to hear "If your looking a small feline, I think I've found it."

 The    Person Looks up and  starts  walking over, there is a bitter chuckle,...small feline, my  arse.. the  creature is a demon,  set upon  me by angry gods who feel I should be punsihed daily!..Trying to  kept  track of the beast is like trying to catch a smoke  ring with your  toes!

 the  fellow   sits  down and  Watches  the wee beastie    grab  and gnaw at  Orlin's  Thumb..found the beast one  day..in the   gods be damned forest... just walking about.. it folowed me  home.. now?..I cannot get rid of it..nor keep it in one place!
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:15, Mon 08 May 2017.

Meanwhile, Luthien checked by the armory to see about some sword upgrades. And to his surprise, he found exactly what he was looking for...and in the case of one of them, better than he ever could've been looking for. Not only did he find the silver sword he was looking for that'd allow him to deal with devils and werewolves appropriately, but the cold iron sword he found for dealing with demons (and fae) was a truly special piece. Forged by a master smith over the course of 5 years, this sword was truly something special...being better balanced, with a keener edge and faster reaction time than any sword had a right to be. Moreover, it was more durable than any sword made of plain steel, and would easily replace his old steel sword.

Rejoicing at his good fortune, Luthien buys both these swords immediately. And then joyfully goes to the Temple to give praise and thanks to Tra, who he figures must've worked out a deal with Eta in her spare time to grant good fortune on this level. And so he leaves a truly sizable donation in the donation box, consisting of 40 gold pieces. That might well be more money than the Temple normally sees in an entire month.

In reply to Orlin (msg # 274):

   Orlin smiles "Aye, Nature'll be nature.  Wild and untamed.  We simply walk in the garden of her turbulence.  Cats are her gift of chaos yet they often fill a purpose of balance." Orlin's staff chuckles, Orlin looks at it annoyed, "With some ecceptions of course." 

   He looks back at the wee thing wrestling with his hand.  "If'n it ain't hurting others, treat it well and give it space an it'll look after you.  Chaos likes to have things to do, and it loves to look after it's own.  Even in this, balance is restored against th' counterweight of order."

 The Fellow sits on a root,..that might be... but  we have folks here  raising birds, watching eggs, and  tending small animals... they catch him trying to break open Razorhawk eggs?.. they  put him in the stew pot ..to...'balance' things!

Lafisual finds his way over to the west side of the village and quickly recognizes the temple of Mina.  He heads inside and finds a quiet location where he can sit and think for a time.

  Unlike the Cities, The Village Temples  are simple, wood and stone, some  made from living trees that Bent around  to form the roofs of the structures.

 Such was Mina's. the stones of the wall stacks and packed   tightly, no breezes blew  in ... Candles   flickered , only by the passing of  a Cleric...or the opening of the thick wooden doors.

 a Cleric  stands at the front, reading through a book.

   "Then it sounds like this isn't the place for him.  As I recall the cats have their own god, he might be of help if you asked.  As for me, I'll have to think on it.  I could ask a really big cat to talk to him but I don't know if he will listen." Orlin looks around. "If this is to be our home village for the time being, I should probably find myself a good den to dry herbs and such.  Perhaps the trees might show me where I could find a good hollow beneath their roots, preferably near an energy line.  Then I might make a place for a kitten away from trouble.  I was told you people could help my round off my herbal supply for my work with the arrows."

  The Fellow  watched the Cat fussing with Orlin, he nodded in thought.

  ..don't know  about energy lines? You'd have to see folks from the Highpeaks for that?... he points to wards the small field,..on the otherside of the field is some rough ground.. tree and rocks, battling for the same soil, until they made peace?... bet you could  find  something there....The second Moon will be up shortly... if you want to go look?

Brie walked around and pick up a few more arrows with sharper tips.  She stopped at a shop that sold flowers and bought a months worth of a certain flower to be delivered to Kree's mother every day.  Then she stopped when she saw fabric and bought a couple of yards of various colors.  She loved a bit more vibrant colors than the typical elf, blame it on her human side.

Once she was done with her shopping, she looked to Kree.  I'm ready to go when you are, she said.  She lifted a purple flower up to him.  Want to drop it off?

In reply to Brestine Darksbane (msg # 282):

Gareth follows the red-headed half-elf hunter as she wanders town trying to get the nerve to talk to her.

After contemplating a bit Lafisual moves toward the Cleric.  Hello good sir.  I am new to these lands.  I trust that it won't be a bother if I meditate for a time?

  With a slight turn of his head, The elven cleric  nods slightly,ahhh... good evening. I was lost in the Book on Mina. Here story , could be the story of  The Black Timber, if one would draw the  Parallels.... and..unlike the temples of the city, we  do not fear theft . Those who are in need ask.. those who have more...give..it is not a hard concept.

    I will see to it soon enough, but I have a promise to keep before we lose anymore light.

    Orlin seeks out Kree and Carr

  Kree stepped  away from  Brie  for a bit  as he talked with one of the bards who was  busy  penning some 'changes' into the   Princess story.

  Carr was  sitting by the stage with a  drink and a pastery. he was smiling  as  a lot of the kids  were talking to him.. some admiring his new pin.

In reply to oriln (msg # 287):

   Orlin walks up.  "Ye've have done me an mine a service today, I would ask some more help of you if Kree agrees with it."

  The Kid looks up at Orlin,, he moves his mouth, but is looking around... he points to Kree at the end of the stage.

   Orlin smiles. "There are languages some beings speak with their hands.  I'm no good with any of them but I do know this means yes."  He bobs his hand up and down, "And this means no." He snaps his index finger and his middle finger against his thumb like a bird closing it's beak. I will go speak with Kree."

  Orlin gets up and goes to speak with Kree. "Mr. Kree, do you have a moment?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:47, Tue 09 May 2017.

  The Bard  sees  Orlin and    gives  Kree a whack on the shoulder as he moves back on the  'stage' to  get the  dancing music  going  .

 ..What do you need, Orlin..How is the Vilage treating you?

Not at all.  Are you aware of anyone in need currently?  I can provide services while I am here if needed and while I don't have a lot of coin, I do have some of that too.

  "The village is treating me very well actually.  The old one wishes to give Carr a ride.  I told him we might need him for Arrow business if you agreed and will call it a patrol of the woods.  The Dwarven council member gave the okay.  I would like someone to ride with Carr, at least this time out to make sure he can keep his seat and I'm sure you would be the ultimate honor for him.  Will you accept the task?"

  The   Cleric  marks his  page, and turns to  Laf,ahhh..well.. that is  a goodly think to ask..even better, for an Arrow?..Our Village is not unlike any other.. we have  some folks who have less then others...some who have more... there may be sqabbles, but for the most part, the things we need help against is what the wardens...and..to a lesser extend..Arrows are for? What type of help  do you wish to offer?