<<<<< Kree group from Black Timber

  The Grasses were lower, in the more  rocky areas. after the  Group walked for a while, it was easier to see  the lower Grass, from the higher... it was also easier to see the Deep green of   soggy  area.. to the   yellow green of the  dry, or  rocky areas

 Mize looked at the sky,if you wish to push, before a  highsun meal...  we can stop..maybe... a half hour?... then Continue.. there is ..or was... a grasslander camp.. they move from time to time  so they do not  'hunt out' and area, nor give  Cat folks and such , something they can count on..My Village will be another Days  travel at this  rate, if your  intent is to go to Mok?

 ..That sounds  about right.. short stop for  some water and pack food.. then see what we can do about  finding the Camp....even if we do not find them.... we can still sue thier site.

  As they moved through the grasslands.. the humind  grasses made it  stickier...hotter..

  Now and then a breeze would blow across the grasses , making it look like waves on a green-yellow sea.

  Mire plodded along on his  pony, he talked a lot...a lot...stories of pony riders.. fights  with cat folks...funny stories, sad  stories...

 Ivy  had his bow  across his shoulders, hands  draped over each end....so?  your  people... do not ..like... stay quiet long?

 mire  Grinned, we  ride horse... does not matter  how quiet we are?, My woodland Brother... YOu are used  to  sneaking from tree to tree...

 Kree   smiled a bit darkly,... we also move through the streets in alleys, like  shadows....many a foe never see or hear is  coming....ask the slavers back there....

 well my friends.... the Grasslands are different.... if there is somethign waiting for you..and you do not see it.. then you must fight it.... unless you wish to travel the night.... it will be worse for you..should you enter the sands..... islands of  water  and trees, are spread around... folks who live in the sands  we see you days before you even know they are there?

  ...sounds  as though..it is  a hard place to travel...

 It is, good captain....it is....

 ..Then?  Answer this... how do the snadfolk, Can folk and raiders... manage to  take so many slaves?

 Mire  went to answer... his mouth moved as he screwed up his  lips and  brow furrowed...

 ..by the Gods!... you  quieted him!

 chuckles  all around as Mire shook his head as he laughed.

 "Be careful of your hands and arms here. That of kind grass can cut if you get an edge against your skin."

 She pointed out a type of grass that grew higher than other grasses, and had stripes of light and dark green on the leaves, and fronds on top. (  http://www.pernellgerver.com/zebra.gif  ) and another tall grass that had large poofs of plumes on top (  https://s-media-cache-ak0.pini...rtaderia-grasses.jpg  ).

 She avoided those clumps and patches as much as possible. Not only would they clutch at her clothing and feet, they would cut welts into her skin that would burn and and bleed for hours.

Orlin is the usual quiet traveling companion.  He ranges a little off to the side, a little back from the front.  His eyes are wary.  He's not happy about being unable to see through the grass or the humid heat.

In reply to Shadow Mist (msg # 3):

That's good to know.  He takes note of the grasses she was pointing out and makes sure to avoid them.  I haven't spent much time in lands like this.  When I did, I was on roads.  He continues on looking for anything that might need to be dealt with.

 "Roads would be nice! Things can hide in the grasslands, especially catfolk. Keep your eyes alert for grasses that move against the wind. Like when you see a large fish in the water when it goes against the ripples in a lake."

 She smiled when she thought about the last time she'd gone fishing. She'd been without a job that time and could do as she pleased. She'd caught a few nice bass and a nice catfish.

Luthien, at the moment, has yet to find an arcane caster. Otherwise his armor would be more than adequate for the task. it still is, where it hasn't been damaged so bad you can see arm through it.

  Luthien feels the  breeze in his chest and arm...maybe?  it might not be a bad idea, not to fix it!

I will definitely keep that in mind. Lafisual responds back softly and continues to scout.  It sounds like you have had a lot of experience in this kind of terrain. He winks at her.

   The group finds the last resting   spot of a Nomad  group, Mire  says,..no more then 30 Minutes...then we should Go, if  we want a chance to reach   my village

 Kree Takes off his  Pack and sits  down on the, rather barren  ground...rock was under most of the   circle, about  30 yards in Diameter.

 ...nomads  don't luse  alot of toom?

 Mire   sets up a water bag for his pony,..most of them  are  outcasts, or  adventure seeking  fools.. they gather together when they come across each other..never more then  15..maybe  20..it is sad when there are little ones. If they are Attacked, they are the ones to fall first.

 ..Outcasts?

 ..they break laws..steal ..bed another's spouse ..things like that..murderers  are put to death.

In reply to Lafisual (msg # 9):

 She laughed as he winked at her. She hadn't expected him to do that!

 "Well, there's some gardens that use those grasses in controlled pots. Time and again I have... lurked in a garden or two. The grass makes good hiding spots if one doesn't wish to be seen."

  almost 30 Minutes  Pass. Mize gets up and    takes the near empty water bag off  his pony. shaking  it out  and  hooking it on the thin sadly to  dry.

  ..Time  we get Moving , Captain.  you do not want to be in the grasses, at night... too easy to find snakes...

 Kree laughed,..My friend... we travel the realms?.... walking through the grassland snakes   , is of bo threat to us.

   Mize   Mounted up, and he gave  Kree a  stern smile,... You  do not know....even  as short ago...as 5 years?  grasslands snakes only caused a bit of fever..perhaps slow you down, make you clumsy for a day or two.... But The Sandfolk bastards, do not check cargo as they should.  The poison filled   adders  and such, slipped into the crasslands..finding it   a feast, with thier poisons, to find  easy meals.. from vilage rats , cats and dogs.. to the rodents   of the fields.... they grow in size, and..some have  mated with the  Grassland constrictors. Another 5 years  they have reached Tou...  and  begin to enter the  Trace and Black Timber... Any such  snake you kill, if you bring the body to a sage or Potion maker?  they will pay you a silver or two... if you get a poison bearing Constrictor, they will give you a gold... we have weekly hunts, in my village, to kill they sand  snakes.. we   wrap them in Bundles  and take them to Tou or the Trace Wood.... The trace Elves  are  now making poisoned arrows to fight the Flood of dark folk.. perhaps you will, as well?

 ..we have used poison in the past, when the crown would send us  on an Assassination have not used it against plain folks yet..

 ..might be somehting to keep in mind, if you travel the Sands... the  Sand Fols pop up in numbers.. any way to thin the herd  should be used.

Brie stood as they rested, watching the grasses as it flowed in the tempered breeze.  She swapped out and watched the others as they rested or stood guard.  When Mize stood and was ready to go, she shifted her bag and stretched a bit.

While, it might be mild mannered pursuing for us, there are others not as well equipped for your ventures...my Captain.

She gave Kree a wink and a nudge.

------

Riku had taken to resting on Mize's horse.  After all the flight she's taken the past couple of weeks, she was ready to rest, briefy.

 She followed the rest being sure to avoid the cutting grass. She kept watch as usual, weapons ready eyes and ears and senses alert. She kept near her new friend to back him up. If not for him, she might not stay, since none of the rest of the Arrows seemed interested in new friends.

 "Is it always like this Lafisual? Always following behind the others and camping or stopping for a night then walking and walking again? Why don't we all ride horses? It would leave us less weary in case of battle."

That, or scouting ahead.  At one time some folks had horses but those folks split off into another group I think.  For myself I guess I don't mind so much as I feel I can scout better from the ground.  I have honestly never owned a horse though I have ridden one in the past on occasion.  He continues along glad of his new friend.

  Ivy  turns      his head a bit , saying over his shoulder,..we have used horse we have stole... some folks have  horses... but it  is better to  be unemcumbered by having a horse or some mount, that you need to take care of.  There is also the loss one feels , when it gets  killed... we can leave a trail, at any time,and not be  worried  of what will happen to the mounts...

 "I suppose that is true. Though you can eat them in case of running out of food in some cases. Mares Shank is ok if you don't mind traveling slowly and wearing out feet and shoe leather. I have to admit though having a pack pony can be nice to carry supplies sometimes."

 She shrugged her shoulders a bit to settle her backpack better and ease a cramp in her back. She kept watching the grass around them as they walked through the wavering stalks, glad the breezes were blowing somewhat to keep them cool.

    as the night began to creep up on them,  Ivy's  Blade snapped out.....gods be damned  snake!  It is your fault Mize.. you summoned them by talking about them.

 ... you  are too jumpy my friend... we wil see more as we near the Village... the warmth of cook fires, and the  sheds that house the ponies..rodents that come in to try and eat our grain...lots of things  for snakes to do in a village.. between them and the cats.. we do not lose much grain to rodents.

  Kree says,..I can see a glow?... is that your village?

  ..It is..and it is alot closer then you think...

   It wasn't  until they were about 500 yards away, that  Riku could see the 'walls' of the Village.... Then the elves in the  group , notices the old  way the grass...'didn't  move'.

   A small female voice  shouted  from somewhere  ahead,Hold your  weapons above your heads... or  feel the bite of an arrow...


 Kree and   Ivy hold their  weapons above their heads.

Following Kree's lead, Lafisual also holds his weapon over his head.  He gives a slight look of concern to Shadow but then shrugs.  I guess if Kree doesn't feel a need to be confrontational I suppose it's ok, He whispers quietly but keeps his eyes in the direction of the voice and looks around for other dangers.

In reply to Lafisual (msg # 20):

Diana slowly raised her blade above her head.  What choice did she have? The Enemy had the draw on them and to do otherwise would be to invite trouble.

So, she complied.

In reply to Pony Haven (msg # 19):


Lucy had taken to the grasslands like a duck to water.  She found it ... playful to move among the grasslands, and then sneak up on an unsuspecting teammate with a "Boo!"
And then laugh as they jumped.

Then she stopped being playful.  The wind had switched and she had picked up scent.  But even she was too late.  The voice was ordering her to raise her weapons before she could really move.

She cursed here playfulness at that moment.  A stupid thing even a kitten would have been smart enough not to do.

So, she did the only thing she could.  She raised her blade above her head.

  Mize   rode His  Pony ahead of the others,..Ease My  Brothers and sisters... these  are Arrows from the Black Timber..  we shared battle and Victory together... send words for a feast tonight!

  An Grassland  elf appeared to pop out of the ground. and  run in the direction the group had Been traveling.


  At least 6 more rose out of the ground like Undead. Kree lowered his  Bow,...elves that live under ground?

  Mize Laughed,..you might say that... but you will understand  once we reach the Village.... Dwarves?  we are not..but we have copied them to an extent...

 The  6  Elfs that popped  up wave the  group to right...Mize was leading that way as well.

 ..you cannot  go further forward, save  to follow the path i am taking....had i not been with you.. you would have  been told  to yeild or die...since it is hard to tell, good folks, from the fell...

Lafisual lowers his bow and carefully follows where the others are leading.

In reply to Lafisual (msg # 20):

 She held her weapons high, at least those in her hands. She didn't have enough hands to hold every little weapon she had, but then again, how impressive is a needle or a hat pin anyway? But she followed the spirit of the law holding up her most obvious weaponry.

 Besides, she wasn't about to start trouble with their hosts anyway. Not unless they started something against them first.

 When the others lowered their weapons she did too. She followed Lafisual and Diana forward. She still kept her eyes alert for trouble anyway. She nodded at Lafisual's comment.

 "I'll still keep my eyes and ears alert."

Luthien honorably held his blade high when asked, and then resheathed it when somebody stepped forward.

"There are less violent means of telling friend from foe."

  Mize     chuckles as he says back,we are not like  our Cousins, who are trapped in thier own  dark tunnels of trees and brush... they can have  scout   high in the air to see foes  coming......if we  seesomeone approaching, they most likely see us...excep0t for the hidden guards..but even then.. we need  a simple, and  quick way.. those who don't acknowledge  ourhail... are treated  as foes..and it is up to them to change our minds...

Brie had sensed something out there but was surprised by the voice.  She paused and raised her hands in the air.  One of her hands held her bow.  The other empty.

She looked over to Mize and Kree with a look of concern.

Riku had been fluttering above them, but not too far.  She could see a village was pretty close, but hearing voices from below she came back down and landed on Mize's horse looking up at him.

Playing tricks now are we? she said looking around for said voice.

   following  Mize's Horse, with the Pixie landing on the back, The group slowly begins to see why the grass seemed to  bend the other  way... Thick Rock wally with Grass planed Infront and inbetween had the  look of a slight slope.. but on the other side of the Gras was the stark grown of  well tended  grass, only an ankle high or so,

 the odd part was  the  three Buildings, build of  Grass and stone, that looked much , like any other nomad camp... but the largest Building he s passage, Under The Grasslands.

   following Mize, the Arrows   walked  down the  incline, to cooler, damper air... Cook fire smell drifted towards them.. the slope  turned to the   east a bit..  and  below them they saw  Huts of  Stone, wood and peat..

  The HAmmer of  smiths  and   the  chatter of people.. it was a  fair size  Village, under the Grassland..

  Mize Pointed to the Far east, I Horse shoe shaped  stream about  20 yards  across, CAme out  from the bedrock to the South, and bend back into another Cave  Mouth to the east..... Water  comes  down from the Lather   river, in a  set of  stepped  water falls.. ina  bug Cavern to the South... the   river   continues to  flow through Grottos  and  such... unit it  meets with an  Underground stream for The Tou... we will ship some  wares by  boat and  Come up, about a mile from Lake Tou... I still think, that the Humans  don't know we can do that... the river  has  nice  fish,,and smaller serpents... no big ones every make it through.. and  out  fisherman  rarely miss a serpent.. we have  a doazen or so Dwarves  who live here.. they help make sure or defenses  are kept  in order and help  keep the boar way clear and safe.

An interesting way to live for sure, but I think I will still prefer the forests.  I imagine that they enjoy the cool though, Lafisual muses quietly to Shadow.

"I wonder if there is a complete maze under this vast plain of grass? That would allow them to travel long ways and they could keep troops of warriors at the end of each one, with runners to send alerts pretty fast, and even have built sections to cave in as a runner goes through, they could trigger a fall if there was a chance of the enemy getting through. That's what I would do if I were them."

 She nodded at Lafisual as he mentions it being cool below. "With this grass they could weave and make curtains and mats and all kind of things. Maybe even clothing."

Lafisual raises an eyebrow. An interesting possibility. It is quite impressive what folks can do when forced to use what is available to them, just like we use the trees and forest.  As someone who likes to explore on occasion it's a nice thought if they indeed do have extensive tunnels such as you describe.

"Like a giant ant hill. I wonder if there's a queen?" She grinned to show she was joking. But if the leader was a woman she'd probably laugh right out loud!

 She looked around at the encampment with curious eyes.

 "They have done much here, but I wonder what happens in case of lightning storms starting wild fires. It might draw smoke underground if they don't have some way of closing off the openings. That would be disastrous! I think I might ask before I go underground."

   Mize  points  to  some scrubbrush close to the   stream,..you set up camp there....eat and rest... in the Morning we wil take you out the Back entrance, so you are closer to  Mok...we have some shops and  such if you are in  need of goods?..but  I will sent over  a heavy meal for you this night..it may be your last chance at Elven Comfort!

   Kree  gives him a wave of thanks, Once Mize is away he says,we will all camp together at the spot he pointed out... I see two..'inns' if any of you wish to get drink, or for that matter, check out the merchants...

Lafisual smiles at her over the Queen comment.  "They must have thought about water and smoke I would think.  This is pretty elaborate.  Anyway, it sounds like our basic arrangements have been made.  Perhaps a look around at the inns and the merchants is in order?"

 "That sounds like a plan! Lets find an Inn first and find rooms, then we can hit the market. I am tired of hauling this backpack for now."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:36, Mon 21 Aug 2017.

"After you.  Inn or merchants, I am up for either," Lafisual offers with a smile.

  the  'village' was not large..some  6 or 7 buildings of business..2 of them inns of sorts.. others  dealt with clothing, weapons, supplies..

  Ivy went into the smaller  bar and was talking to a pair of  grassland  elfmainds.

  one of the  stores  had  some tables out front with silks..an Elfmaid there.. shifted her eyes back and forth, playing  on the males.

  Kree looked over the table   and she  smiled fluttering eyelashes,..ahh..Brave Hunter of slavers!... i hear your travel to the sands?.. you would do well, to buy some silks to show colors among the peacocks..and cover yor face  from thw wind-sand.

 Milling around the  small  underground Village the party does have some chances to buy items

  Kree  is with the   general goods  store elfmaid , looking over silks.

 Ivy is in the smaller in chatting up  some  elfmaids  while enkoying a drink

 Rolf went over to  an 'open air' cooking station were   some Corn was being cooked to go with a  Boar that was on the spit.

Diana spent a few coin, replacing the arrows she had used during the fight.  There never seemed to be enough arrows.

She then went to enjoy herself.  She looked for a game of cards.

Lucy also replaced the arrows she had used during the fight.

She then went to get something to eat, a light snack, and then went for a walk outside, in the grasslands.

There was something about the grasslands that seemed to draw her to them.  She couldn't put her finger on it, but there was something there.

On second thought, maybe I will look for some materials to make these arrows.  They probably don't have any but it's worth a look anyway.    Lafisual smiles at Shadow and heads off to browse the wares.

Brie watched as everyone, including Kree and Ivy, head off into the town.  She would stay back and watch over whomever wanted to stay behind and any left behind gear.

In reply to Lafisual (msg # 43):

 She shrugs and smiles and follows him to look for wood for his arrows. She needs more arrows too so she follows along. It was more fun shopping with someone else than alone...usually.

 "Sounds like a plan to me! Lets go!"

  The  elf maid  flirts with  Kree a bit, he seems to  mind, after a few Moments  he returns to where they  'camp site' will be.

   He    reaches inside his tunic  and  HAnd  Brie  a  Dark green silk, and a  bright  yellow  silk,..one to be seen with.. one to hide....  he smiles

  Got  a rather good  deal, I knew she was playing me..she knew i was playign her.. so she  gave me a discount.

     Orlin swings by an apothocary to learn of plants and potions native to this area that might be of use.

   one of the hunts tucked  away, not  far from the water, has  some   hides  drying .. various Bulbs   hanging to dry.

  A Middle aged  human woman, one of the very few, in the  village is  grinding powders from various  dried   things in baskets around her.

  next to her is a small reptile, though he seems  smarter then most, its head lifts  as Garrat approaches.

   Orlin nods to the reptile, "Hello little one."  To the lady  Greatings lady, I have been traveling into these lands for the first time and am looking for someone to show me thinigs to use that might help the friends traveling with me.  Do you have any potions of healing or helping I can invest in?  Words to a fellow herbalist that might help me in this sea of grass?"

  The  woman looks up, her  practiced  hands keep grind  and pounding with her  stone 'motar and pestle'..

    you donna  come from the rgasses..nor the trees? You are from the  mountains.....

 she looked  at the  bowl  and  shifts it a bit and begins  to crush,...The grass riders?... they do not like  the potions.... sun and horse shake the  jars..not good  for the magic of the  earth....

 she nods  , pointing to  baskets  around her.....so the powders... they put in pouches... drink with water..... it is  as good as the Poctions...free to be making, if you can find the right  gifts that   the land  gives us...

 Pointing to  piles of  powder,..Red Dragon Flower..must  dry the petals..... Pods  from marsh vines... crush and dry the   seeds..and  the long fruit of the Riverbush..Yellow.. hot to eat...can be  deadly  if not  ripe..but it matters not, when you dry and  crush... you mix the three...take  a spoon full drink  water... it will heal you some...2 spoons..more  water..heal you better.. 3 spoon fulls ..you die.

Brie looks up at Kree when he aproaches and gigglea at the gifts he brought back.


"Well, it can definitely be added to my attire repertoire."

She put one in her side bag and another in her pack for safe keeping.

In reply to Orlin (msg # 50):

   "Excellent, yes the mountains have their own bounty but every place is special.  How long before you can take the potion again, and is the dosage universal or dependant on a persons body weight?"

   She shrugs,it matters not... the body's  size...but the bodies  needs.... To take it  when you body  needs help, is what it is  for... to take it for no reson, invites the punsihment of nature...take a  bit  now?.. you will get sick.. take abit more...ebcause you were sick could lead to death... Tahe a bit ebcause you have been Bladed..  , the  wounds  will begin to stich themselves... take an arrow  right after... you take it  again... in should not be abused... and?..to speak sooth, you will have  hard times fonding these three...it is natures gift, but one  you must earn...and  never  abuse.

   Orlin commits the plants to memory "Ah, so it is need based.  Thank you for what information you have given me.  Can the solution be diluted?"

  She  gave a  shrug as she  gathered  three  small pouches and rolled , a well used  square of leather into a funnel.

  getting the three , clay lined, baskets she poured them into her  mixing bowl......see the colors?... so easy to tell what plant? but that is not good... they must become one....  she  begins  to swirls the   ground  powers into  a mix... when it is  done a dull red, is what is   left.... a silver  spoon, old , but well cared for , is used to  shovel the powder into the funnel until each pouch is  full.

  ..Thinning  the powers..perhaps, even making  drink?.. is to insult the gift that nature gave... it may help..but the help will not  be as strong, and perhaps..not last?

  She olds out  a pouch to Orlin... ..four doses , in each pouch... In Mok? such a pouch can fetch 5 gold?.. In Tou, perhaps as high as 8..but rarely is it sold... Nature  has given it to us...Take this.. so you learn...

   Orlin accepts the bundle gratefully, "I thank ya."  He carefully opens his otter skin pouch and reaches inside.  pulling out a bit of left over twine he carefully knots the tips of the strings before tying the bag firmly shut. "I use the knots so I can reach in and feel what the item is even in darkness.  This knot on the left string for healing, this knot on the right for dosage, and a loop in the center for danger if used incorrectly.  Once I used beads but when one cracked off, only the smell kept me from using the wrong potion."  Orlin sniggers, the bead for reproductive potion was still in place but had I administered it would have given a man who wanted an heir full grown mammary glands within two weeks.

   He grows serious, "I am a big man by the standards of you lowlanders, and know my way around an apothecary.  While I enjoy a celebration as much as the next boy, I would rather lend a hand here than waste money on a game of chance, or strong drink."  The light in his staff flickers a little as if chuckling, "Is there anything I can do to help?

 she  raises a  thin finger  and points to a basket with some of the  dried items,... get that bowl... you can grind the powders with me.. get some learning to make your own, out in the wild...

   Orlin does as he is told and gets to work.

  As Kree  and Brie talked, a  Human who wore   leathers  and  carried a bow, came from the   water way... he had a sneer on his face as he called out..well..if it ain't the...Edhel  en' death

  Kree looked at the   fellow and  smirked,well... Friend..you butchers the  fair language.. but..yes....

  ..not your  friend...... never will be....there's a price on your  head..one day, I'll claim it....

 Kree  chuckled,..better do it soon, there is a big line waiting for that?

  ..you killed half  my family...Edhel  en' death..... and why?.. because they were  movin' some sand folk down river to sell to the  Reds?

  Turning to face the   man, Kree said,..I have no love for the sand folk..but those  that were in chains  were women and children... Slavers  die.... no matter what the slave...

 ...Yeah?.. well... you  start watchin'  yer back.... This is a  safe  place, or  else i would have  stuck a shaft in you, the moment i saw you....But you and Yours  will pay.. then?  I'll get paid...

 Kree nodded,..if you would like?.. we  can go above  ground..  past the limits of the  Grassfolk's   home....

 don't think i don't want to..... but i got to finish my  courier  job ...its fer the crown.. so's i can't just up and leave it...

 wise choice.. hard to deliver a message, when you are dead... the  forest green eyes  were a bit darker..

 The fellow  nodded  and turned  to walk towards    the stable to  buy/rent a horse of pony.

Brie looks up as her and Kree talk to the man approaching and speaks threats about Kree and kin.

"Best be careful where your words are spoken Sir," she said.  "Tis those same words that could lead to your own bounty."

Brie pats the dagger at her side.

  Walking away the  fellow  just waved in disgust.

  Watching him walk away, Kree nods   , saying   softly,..if he did not  carry a packet for the Crown?... I would make certain this was ended now. But we do not know the import of that packet, nor  why , one such as him, carries it.

Brie moves her ears into Kree's neck to play off her next comment.  Either way, I would still be weary of his intentions.  Should we send Riku to scout behind him?

Riku was on the wagon asleep soundly amid some hay.  The day and last battle had wiped her out.

  Kree frowned as he thought about it,... wait until she wakes..she has had a hard  Ten day...she deserves her rest... I am less concerned  with him... then  whatever  group he belonged to...might be good to find out.

Lafisual browses the wares in search of solid wood and hoping on the off chance that any of the vendors have some ClamsPort Steel whether it's raw or used in another item for sale.  Also he looks around from some quality wood for making arrows and perhaps a recorder or two.  He nods to Shadow, I don't know what the chances are but might as well look for ClamsPort Steel and wood.  Did you have anything you were looking for?

   Kree   looked around and  found a  pair of  young kids who were making   some kind of pictures in the dirt. How  would you like to each gold coin each?

 The little girl's eyes opened  and the boy  smiled   but then frowned,..how  do you know you'll pay us?

 Kree  nodded  and   took a knee...I will give you  one gold  now?.. if  i don't pay your the other..you can still split it   for 5 silvers  each!....all i need you to do, is  sit by out camp , make sure no one bothers  are  equipment... we need that to hut slavers, you know..

 the kids Nodded  and got up,  Kree handed the gold to the girl who looked  at it with  giant wide eyes......you can make your art work there as well, if you wish....

 Then he turns to brie...one more  cooked  meal..before  we head out to the rgasslands  again

 As they pass the  woman who had the general good he pointed to some itmes  in the back..she looked puzzled  a bit,but   gathered them up and wrapped them.. taking Kree's coin,. then the pair  entered the larger  'inn'

Brie got up and walked along with Kree.  Obviously, he had a reason for her to go with him, and she obligingly went along.  She gave the kids just as Kree turned his back to them, 2 more gold coins.  She gives them a wink and quickly makes her way back to Kree.

Just a meal is all we are going for, she said with a mischievous grin.

   Kree smiles   slightly,..a drink, some hot  food, then maybe  some fresh air up top before   sleep....

  Ivy was outside the smaller Inn with a drink and a Maiden on his lap.. Kree gave him a small  hand sign, Ivy  answered with a  upraised   mug of ale.

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 67):

She giggled.  "So you're going to tske me sight seeing?  This will be fun."

She looked to where Ivy was at and shook her head.

   Noise in the inn was loud, but  mot like a normal  Inn. Smoke from pipes and  many different scented  Candle  filed the air... lanterns with   oils   hung from the ceiling.

   They sat  down, an Older elf  woman approached ,..So..you'er the  lad who the fuss is about?....Some big Hunters, i hear?

  ..My Comrades and I...aye. We are the Crimson Arrows....

 ..who now?... Can't

 say i've heard of ye...but..I do not leave the  Burrow much.

  ..Burrow?... I have roamed these lands  for   many years..I have not heard that term, when it comes to elf folk?


 ..it was   10 years ago...maybe a tad longer... the fisst grasslanders  found the  carverns... from when the LAther River and Tou were once  joined? When trhe gods  shook the world The Tou and LAther were separated..but still cling to each other... touching under the plains.... There are  least 3 Burrows  that cover the lands  between your forest and  Toun...ranging  down from The Lather, to the Storm.... we keep to ourselves for the most part..with false   villages  above..but the reach settlement  below..we Count the Black Timber Elves and trace Wood  Elves as  friends... and Thus.. Dwarves from the High peaks  made treat with us... so that could use the water  ways as well..in return.. they help patrol and keep the evil creatures at bay, while improving the caverns the Burrows live and travel in..

 ..That is something  I did not know? I thought  the grassland elves where nomads.

 it is a think we do.. to try and confuse enemies... the scouts go out, and set up small places... take some   woman and even a child or two... very few have been trusted here... you should feel honored.

 ..I am....Mize  and his riders came to our  aid... sandfolk, catfolk and  orcs had breeched the  Timber.. and  we   found them.. the battle  may have went worse  without them..at very least.. some of them would have escaped.

 The woman nodded in disgust,..I sooner  bed a Catfolk, then serve a meal to a sandfolk... they smile and trade with ye..but  can just as easy  slit yer throat....

 ..Indeed....well?.. waht would  your recommend  for two tired travelers...

 well.. we have an Ox stew with  some  roots and tubers that rgow, as well as mushrooms, should you like...or we have some frish..ye can have it fried with bread crubs..or  grilled on the  rack?..for  drinks  we have some wines from Tou.. or  our own spiced Mushroom wine.. we got the mix from the dwarves and added our own bit of taste....and , off course  we have Ale from Tou and Mok

 ..A bowel of stew  for me...with mushrooms..and  mushroom wine.. you do have rolls or bread?


 She gives   kree a pat,..if we don't . i make them ..make some...Now?.. what about your Lady here?

   As orlin works he chants a little chant beneath his breath, barely understandable in common through his accent.  It thanks the plants for their bounty, asks the elements of storm and stone to bless his friends and calls the earth to guide his steps, a simple tune taught to the children of the firbolgs in common that others may be drawn into the rythem of the working tune.

   Between tasks he comments to the Herbalist.  "I travel with the arrows to the sands," he says carefully laying another dried plant into the mortar stone so that his strokes may be more affective. "Is there anything we should know as we head in that direction?"

  The woman  pours  more   powders into pouches,..the grasslands...will have dangers.. none  should be new  to you.....

  ..but the  sands.. are not  meant for goodly folk.. the dry , hot winds  turn folks into dark beings... thinking  only the base thoughts.rare is it, to  find Sand folk who are goodly...when you do..mark them well..for they have survived the tests of the Sands and thier  twisted gods...as for Mok? better to walk naked into a snake pit..

In reply to Kree Quickshadow (msg # 69):

Brie leans back in the seat as the other man and Kree spoke.  She smiles when asked what she would like to order.  I'll take me some of that grilled fish with a side of some local veggies if you have them.  I'll take some of the wine, surprise me.

She looks to Kree with a nonchalant wink.  She leans in and whispers.  They called me lady.

  Kree smiles, rare indeed,..it shows  they are smart and have a bit of good  taste..

  ..these folk remind me much, of the Trace Elves.... no hidden feelings.. they like you..or they do not..

 the server  comes back with the  Food. Kree nods   his thanks  as he sees the  fresh  rolls and butter.


 Kree asks  what the cost will be and the server say it will be 2 silvers each..he  give over 2  gold.....split  what is left from the emal cost for you and the  cook...


  ..are you so rich with coin, that you can toss this  much  to strangers?

  ..an  arrow  or lucky blade could take me tomorrow...what good  will the extra  coin be?  Better to let folks, who are kind to me..have some coin, to make themselevs a bit more happye..aye...?

 The server  grins  and  walked   back into the cook area.

  Now ..let us enjoy  this  food , and go for that walk...

In reply to Lafisual (msg # 64):

"I am always looking for interesting items. You never know what new things you might find, even new items that might sell high somewhere else. Novelty items are worth the carrying if they are small enough. I also often look for new blades, and arrow shafts and proper feathers. And stone beads and leather goods."

 She followed him through and listens to his advice on things he has knowledge of and interest in. She touches items and examines the variety and buys some odds and ends.

  The  small  place of commerce  didn't have a lot of things, but they did have some items of quality.

 the General good  woman would  flirt a bit with any male, or talk in quirt voice to  female as if  they had a secret. showing her ware with a flourish.

  There were all colors of  Silks from Clamsport and beyond...she seemed to hawk these to the arrows, after hearing  rumors they were going that way...she had a few lanterns flasks of oil..cloaks of various sizes, all in colors of the grasslands.

she had a small selection of daggers..and there  were a few Hats and  Caps from Tou, Ironmound and the types own by the Trace elves.

........

 the Blacksmith   was pouring  steel into a mold for a blade, that was 2 inches wide, but  had  a two pronged tip, as if it was an adder's tongue .  there were some finished blades on  the wall behind him, as well as the   shortswords the grassland  elves  used..these, also had two pronged tips...Hems   hung there as well opened faced   with a sweeping back to portect the neck from the sun...there is a selection of   'used' helms  taken from dead foes, that the smithy repaired  for sale...Breast Plates, and even one old..full set..of  plate armor. It looked as  though it had been there a while.

 Sharing the  Old elf's  shop was a younger Elfmaid. By her look, she was from the trace wood with darker hair, and  eyes more  slanted up wards at the outside, then those  of   the grassland  elves, and Ivy or Kree. a well cared for bow hung from prongs with a dark green hooded cape..a small back pack as well. She worked  like some gnomish machine... placing   fresh made arrow heads onto the shafts of perfect cut shafts, and secured them  with fine wire wrappings, before dripping a bit of molten steel that the  Smithy had'cooking' for her , in a smaller ladle ...juding by the  arrows that were made.. and laid out for sale, she  would then run down the  droplest to  match the arrowheads.. securing them, and allowing  for better  flight.

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

 the two inns  provided  food and drink... and even dried their own rations to  wrap for those who wished  trail food

   Orlin snorts  "I'm a Firbolg, walking naked is the only way to frighten the serpents enough to survive the pits."   He  thinks on her words a bit.  "So trust no sand people until they have proven their worth"

  The  old  woman nods,..as  with  anywhere else....they will greet  you...either  friendly...or full of  distrust...only more so...Sand folk are found of using thier  mouths...and  will all, but shout..when talking is more then enough.

 ..the rare  quiet ones... they  can be  trouble....so?... best not to truts any, until they porve thier worth..as you said.

Brie smiled and thanked the server and nodded to the cook when he would come out.

Any suggestions on what to expect with this walk of ours? she said giggling.

  Kree   waited  until a  he swallowed   his sponful of stew...as he , got a bit more on a roll.. he smiled.

  what is the first rule...of the Razorhawk  clan?

Brie nodded and grinned.  Yessir, she said without needing to add anything else to it.  Shall I go back to the wagon and get a few things before the walk?

   kree shook his head   as he shoved  the  stew-dipped roll into his  mouth.. he tried to talk around it.

 ..we'll pass   right by it.. Ivy is there... he's going to come as well.. Unless the maiden  takes him  to her  room..then..i will not bother him..

 ..I'm hoping he can come along..  I'll set up a bit of a contest with you two.

Brie had started to dig into the food.  She was enjoying it.  Having been through a good portion of this kingdom having traveled through her own, she's come across quite a variety of foods.  There's not been much that she hasn't liked.

Though Kree's comment about Ivy and a challenge had her pausing with spoon mid air and her mouth open as she looked at him.

Huh? she said and gave him a curious look.  I'm no match for him.  He's....he's...more experienced than me. 

   Kree shrugged   as  he   dipped  another bit of  roll in the stew,..he also has been drinking since we  arrived?,, we can hold  alot of wine.. but he has  had an ale or two... that does not  suit  elven bodies  well.

   ...Besides?.. i  have never backed off your trainign before?.. now that you are in these lands?...  i should not start now...  he popped the   mushroom/stew covered  bread  in his  mouth and winked.

Brie closed her mouth as she put food in it and shook her head.

I would suppose not, she said after swallowing the food down.  Guess I need to lay off the drink this night then.  Even with some in him, he's a heck of a shot.

  Some  15 minutes of a relaxing  Meal.    kree  wipe his   mouth  with the cloth provided

 The server   come over  and asks  how the meal was.. Kree   was very kind in his praise and  asked if they might have  4  loaves  of fresh bread in the money, he will pay when he picks them up...

  The  two  walked towards the  wagon, and the Path up into the grassland night.. he Nodded to Ivy  who frowned  as he downed the rest of his Drink.will this  take long?

 ..depends  on you and Brie...

 he bumped the  Wagon.....Riku.. I need you for a few Minutes, then  you can go back to sleep...

  One of the  grassland  elves   greeted  Kree,..you going   Far?

  ..depends.... a Human seemed in a hurry.. did he leave  my foot , or by horse?

 ..by foot..didn't have the coin for a horse....didn't like him, else  we might have   made a deal...

 ..which way...

 ..that way.. towards  Tou... don't know why he took the overland  route , when he came  here from the underground?

 ..Indeed... thank you.. we might be an hour od so...

  ..Riku?..Fine the bastard... even  as he said this , the tree  were  moving  at a  slight jog...

Riku started a bit when Kree bumped the wagon, but she was quickly alert and attentive.  Yes, she said quickly.  On it.

She listened to the directions that the man gave and took to the air.

Brie finishes up and gathers her most important weapons when they reach the wagons.  She grabs her bow and a dagger, leaving the second behind.

She looks to Ivy when he comes down and attempts to stiffle the giggle when he divulges the information about Ivy's purpose.

Looks like I've got some, stiff, competition, she said and then follows them along the way seeing Riku take to the air.

  Riku  flys  for a few minutes.. she can see  a man  who just seems to have stopped  running, and  is  walking..he has a  long way to go, before  reaching  any type of road, though he did  seem to have  found pony rider tracks.. Kree, Ivy  and Brie Jogged  a bit  faster..eating up the distance

  the elves and half elf's  night  sight..aiding them  a bit.

Riku seea the man and when he starts to slow down. She looks on the path behind him and judges how far her friends are.


Quietly she flutters back to relay the message.

  Kree   listend to   Riku, then said,go ahead and  keep  him in sight...but  do not get too close, or allow him to see you.....

  With a Wave of his hand he says,..Caome..more haste... treat this   as training.. we  seek to stop him from reaching Tou...

Riku nodded.

Gotcha, Cap'n, she said.  She gave a casual salute and took to the air keeping above visual level for most folks.

    Riku   marked the  prey as the  three   closed  the  distance.. in 8 minutes  they were  within  easy Bow range.

 Kree  shouted.. Loud, and Cold...and Stern...YOUR TIME IS DONE.....
 The fellow turned to look back into the gathering DArkness.. if he could see the three..none of them can Tell...

  ..RIKU...I NEED TO KNOW...WHO HITS FIRST!

 almost in the same  breath Kree says to Ivy and Brie...Both of you Shoot... the  first shaft to hit.. gets  5 gold..and the honor  of beating the other...
This message was last edited by the player at 00:35, Sat 09 Sept 2017.

Brie nodded and looked around for hiding as she made her way in stealth mode to come up on the man and attempting to flank him and make her way in a diagonal format from the cousins.

Her bow readied and arrow prepared to fire once she heard Kree speak to halt the man.  If he ran, she would fire and he'd be either dead or severely in pain.

Riku could see all three of them a small twinkle of the moon lite hit their bows and arrows as they raised them to fire.

Readied! she calls out to Kree.

The pair of bowperson's fire.  It was clear who was the initial piercer.

Ivy for the win! she says.  Onward ho!

She flutters down a bit closer, but still observant of the area around them for would be hunters of the Arrows.

  The Three  Jog up to the fellow who is   laying with  two shafts in his body.. one in the chest one in the belly.


 Kree  smiles  down at the fellow,..sorry..'my friend'.. I am sorry  it took so long, I had to make sure you were out of our Host's protection...but i have to tell you?  Arrows  do not leave  Live enemies  behind them...thus? You  threats  had to be dealt with, As the  fish we need to fry, are  far bigger then one misguided slaver get...

 ..you are a bloody coward....  striking me down from a distance...

  well? I was using you as   training   for  The LAdy. She is learning the ways of  our  dark lands...and?..Gave some sport to my Cousin, whom you have threaten with your   words.

  ..what about  my  message for the Emperor...

 ...well?..it  appears you failed , does it not? I will search your body when we are done.... and  we will  see the Crown gets the message...

 ..my..body?

 The  Longsword  Hisses  from  the sheath , then  slams into the  man's chest......aye... thus ends..your  threat...

after  searching  the Body, Kree hands  Ivy  5 Gold, from his  own  purse... then  Gives Brie  and  Ivy each 3 silvers ..kree keeps   5 coppers  for the party funds,,

  The  Message  is in a  waxed parchment pack that is  sealed with  a wax mark seal in the sign of the Crowns secret service.

 ..well... next we see someone heading towards   The Mound ..we will have to see if they will take this.

Brie looks to Kree and crosses her arms.

"How well trained am I?" She asks curioisly.  "Am I trained well enough to do this with one or two others alongside me?"

She looks between Ivy and Kree.  Am I arrow enough to investigate this alone.

  Kree  smiled  as they walked  back to the Grassland's  villagedo not think, with only the Human side of your head...This fellow was  from a family of slavers?... yet..he had a  packet for the crown. None  would  trust a slaver's get to carry such a  item....so?  i am  very certain he was on his  way to meet someone.. i would not send  just one of us, on such a task/... and Ivy and I are more suited to miss a bit of rest then most of our people... i brought you..so you may take part..and learn a bit... do not look for slights.. were there  were none  intended...

Brie shrugged, sighed, and headed back with the guys.  It certainly was a good try, she thought to herself with an up-tilted smile.

   Orlin processes information a bit. "I understand your not one to meddle in the affairs of others," He grins to himself, "In fact that's why I feel I can trust your words more than another's, but have you heard any runners of importance to a traveling party?"

  The  woman nods  slowly as she finishes  her  bathes  of powders.

  ..I cannot range afar as i once did.. i get young ones  the hunt  down my gifts  that the land gives us.... I know only what i hear.

 ..there was a gathering of  Cat-folk and Sand-folk.. they  went to the  North..for what, i do not know.Perhaps  they were the ones  you dealt with?

 ..I hear there are riders... sand Folk and human  both.. who seek out lobe travelrs, or small groups... they  travel along the LAter River..

In reply to market (msg # 75):

 She picked up a few small items for later trade, nothing really costly, but things she hadn't seen before. She looked around for Lafisual to see if he was nearby. He was the only one who seemed interested in being friends, and she couldn't keep track of what the other people were up to. It seemed wherever they stopped there was some kind of hoha going on.

   When they returned, Kree told  Riku to rest near their Camp fire, incase the  man had  any friends  watching   their track down of the   courier.

 He passed the word  along that they would  leave after mornfest, and take the   underground way.

In reply to Kree's unit (msg # 103):

Riku fluttered around and found a decent safe space above normal eyesight yet still within easy hearing distance from the group.  She set out her small bedroll and laid down comfortably.

Brie goes looking for either a dried log or a rock that she can rest on and then begins cleaning her weapons.  She listens to the sounds of the world around her and the conversations of those around her.

In reply to Brestine Darksbane (msg # 105):

Lucy's feline instinct to hunt has taken over again.  She goes some 150 yards from the village, and begins to hunt mice, rats, ect.

She find a position in the shadows, moves with all the grace of her feline half.  She will target the largest mouse / rat she can find.  Then she will "stalk and pounce."

When she has her prey in sight, she will "stalk and pounce" like the catfolk do.  She will only use her claws, and none of her weapons.

When she catches her prey, she will kill it.  She will play with it like catfolk do, and then when it's dead, leave it for whatever predators with to consume it.

Around 2 am she will finally make her way back to the village, just tired enough to get some sleep.  She will sleep hard till someone wakes her up.

In reply to Shadow Mist (msg # 102):

Lafisual found himself caught in looking around for his components for a bit that he hadn't noticed if Shadow was still there.  In a quick glance around he was glad to see that she was able to find some useful things.  I am glad you found something to your liking, he relates as he moves back toward her.  Perhaps finding this metal isn't going to be so easy...not that I expected it to be.  It also seems that I am better off finding wood in the wild for a recorder.  At least I found a couple nice pieces for that before we got here.  I guess we can look a little longer but we could also start working on a recorder for you if you would rather do that?

Luthien was starting to wonder what the emperor had to do with this...this wasn't anything he'd expected of that particular ruler...hmmm.

  The Mornign Comes with Most of the   Unit waking without much Fuss... Ivy satggers over with  a Cup of   'stirabout  and some bread'.   Rolf looks over   ant the Elf   laughing, then to Kree he says,..I thought you elves don't get drunk...

 Kree is   sipping from his  own 'oatmeal-like' cup...It is not the  drink..it is the ....exercise  and the lack of  rest....

 Ivy looks over the brim of his steaming   mug, his eyebrow   rise and lower a  few time at Rolf.
 The woman from the   'inn' brings over  4  fresh loaves of bread, wrapped in  clean bar towels.. Kree thanks her ands her some more coins and she  says,..sisters  watch over  you all!


  kree motions to the loafs,... Ivy and I  will each take one.. the other two  you folks  deciede.. you never know when fresh bread  will come in handy...

 The elf  then, gets a bit  serious look on his  face  as the   tucks the bread, safely, and neatly into his pack.....Most of you know... I was a Captain in the Palace Guard...  his foot  nudged  the   letter  packet  a bit closer to the fire... the  wax  beings to bead up...

  ..now?...opening a  missive, meant for the Crown's  eyes....is a Hanging  , offense..

 the  wax gets  warmer the beads get bigger  and slowly begin to run...

 ..what most folks do not know.... the Missives are sealed with wax... but have a tincture of a certain power. that when held to a candle.. it will flash.... Thus? should you receive a missive, and open it as you are meant to?  yo will see the flash..

 He  put aside his pack and  dips a bit of  a roll into  his  cup and  pops it in his mouth.. his eyes stay on the  wax.....now?.. the other  side of that coin... to use  the  Crown's insignia  for your own purposes.. can cause loss of Hands... loss of eyes... or a boat ride  down the Storm River.  danged by bait  from the port side of the ship.. very few  survive... and even fewer have all thier body parts, if they do...

 the  wax was now  running freely.. the  seal itself was almost gone and there was no 'flash'.. the  packet slowly began to open, like a flower in the morning...

"..It is not the  drink..it is the ....exercise  and the lack of  rest...."

Orlin makes his way in.  "Alas, I've been there lad, it is almost refreshing to be in a land where the women are not attracted to the firbolg brand of charm.  The apothecary didn't seem to have much more than we already know for information but at least we can count on what she has said." Orlin shares what they spoke together of, incuding the medicine he now has available.

   He watches the envelope with interest.  "As the envelope that might have been a legal document was opened it looks like we might have to take the punishment into our own hands."

In reply to Lafisual (msg # 107):

 "Oh, whatever you want to do is fine with me. I don't want to bother you, and I know there's things you probably want to do without me hanging around all the time. The recorder you can do whenever you want, no hurry. Let's ask Kree if he knows someone with metal if you need it badly."

 She showed him the few nick knacks and oddities she'd picked up. Nothing too costly, just unique.

Brie watches Kree as he explains and handles the package.  Between Ivy and Kree, she is always learning something new.  It was one of the reasons she chose to leave her home, she wasn't gaining any footing or learning anything new being an entertainer and staying under her human mother's right arm.

While her and her mother weren't always seeing eye to eye, it was still a humbling yet emotional departure when she explained her leaving and why.  She still carried a locket from her mother in her side pouch and would often, when the earth was still and Brie needed a bit of encouragement or reminder of her past, that she would look at it.  Finger the etched design and feel of the metal on her skin.  Those moments don't happen often, Kree keeps her attention.

She looked into the fire after taking an end of the loaf and some drink, she seemed to be in a trance.  Although, she wasn't, she was listening to everyone as they talked.  Her focus on the "flash" that was suppose to happen.

 Watching the  Wax melt, more and more, until there was just a bit of red stain left , from where the  wax seal and set.

    Popping the last of his  roll in his Mouth, and  taking a sip of the oatmeal food from his  mug,Kree reached over  for the Missive, and spread the  folds  out  wider, until he was certain ere was no flash bits in side.

 Picking hit up , he set the mug down with the other  hand, he says slowly, almost, to himself as he brings the  message closer,..some spies, and the like, will put some street folk's entertainer's  flash dust , just inside, and it has worked to fool those field offciers, or agents who are too lazy..or less smart...to open the  packet in the right way.....  his  voice trails off as he looks to  to the missive..

..one of the grassland  elf Maids brings 2 pies  made from apples  giving him a  kiss on the cheek and moves off , trailing a hand across his shoulder.. he looks at Orlin and winks,..everyone take a slice... not like we can take it with us!

 he  cuts  each pie into  8 Pieces, break off  the tip of his  for  Riku to  eat...then passes the pies around.

 ...This is written ...if it is true...by one, Captain Gor Handlesson.. ..supposed  agent of the Crown....he was  trapped in a building in Mok,,and  gave the  message to our departed friend...

 holding up a finger, kree continues,..the fellow can be trusted, because of the gold  i promised that awaited him.... please make surehe is rewarded...and.. send some agents to..what is Known as... The Dark Veil... there are people there  that need saved...... have them wear... gold or yellow scarves on thier left arm.. so?  if i am alive.. i can greet them.. if i should die... they will need to discard  the silks...


 Turning  from where he sat, he looked over at the store.. the elfmaid there,, held up some golden silks and waved them with a coy smile...

 ..it would seem...even ones who are used to surprises...may be surprised....Ivy?.... please to gather  enough golden silks  for the  group...

 Ivy  Jams the rest of his  pie in his  mouth  and washes the filling off his hands   from his  waterskin.....be right back...  Kree's cousin  got up and  walked towards the  woman, who frowned at first, then looked at Kree, who shrugged...Ivy and the  woman went into the back.

 Kree Looks over the Missive and held it to the light of the fire.. to everyone's surprise ( including his).. the scrawled  figure of a Dragon's Skull  appeared after the    paper was properly heat.....well... this is different....

Brie cleaned over when he lifted the paper up to the light.

"Well that is nifty," she said.  "What does this mean?"

------------------------------------

Riku flutters down and takes the thumbsize piece of pie and nibbles away watching and listening to the others as she devours it.

   The elf Shakes his head...there are a few Dragon Cults... they serve   some of the dragons in the High Peaks..bring the  food....treasure..in return those  dragon keep away  enemie3s...if they are on our side of the moutnain.. they keep Harte forces away... and the other way around, on thier  side... they will also  chase away or  Kill other dragons who try to  take over territory or  , eat thier  followers...

 he hands her the   parchment then motions for her to pass it along to the others  so they Might  get familiar with it.

  Most have grans insignias... a shadow of a dagon with its  wings   spread... a dragon on a golden cup... a dragon with a crown..that sort of thing.... but this?.. is the skull of a  Dragon... but take note of the  eyes... the eyes  look angry...hungry.... We might need to ask , or listen  for  woards  about this rgoup... I am starting to hate the   Desert more and more.. and we have not reached it yet!

Brie looked it over, Riku had came in close and looked over their shoulder.

Brie then passed it to Lafisual who was the next closest to her.

    The team started to strap up their weapons and packs, getting read to Move out.

   Ivy came out,  without his shirt, his leather tunic covering his chest instead.. when he reached the   group he handed   each Member a gold  silk scarf...

   .. YOu lost your  shirt in the Bargin?

  ..she wanted a keepsake?... it was either that or  my cloak... i am not giving up my cloak.. I have an extra   shirt.. I'll put it on, once  we   climb out  of  the  tunnel...


 Kree flicked his right arm to  have  the  thrown  dagger slide, he  cut a scrap of  gold cloth off, to make a  small scarf  for Riku, then  returmed the knife   into  its sheath up his sleeve.

  ..Let us ehad for that water  way.... do not use the scarves, until we reach Mok....

In reply to Shadow Mist (msg # 111):

You aren't a bother at all.  It's been nice to have someone to talk to. He smiles at her.  Yeah, we can ask him at some point.  It seems we are moving out though and maybe we can't get it unless we are in their lands anyway.  Shall we join up for some more marching? He shrugs and turns to head back to the unit assumimg Shadow doesn't have something else in mind and comes with him.

In reply to Lafisual (msg # 118):

 "Oh, indeed. I guess there is no rest for the weary. Or the wicked. Lead on."

 She gathered up her things, including the odds and ends of trade goods she bought and packed them away inside her pack, preparing to march out.

    they approach the waterway and  are surprised to see a pair  of Dwarves. One of them looks the group over... The dark Haired  fellow steps up.

  ...been waderin' ifin you was gonna use the   waterways... gonna  cost ya  50 silvers a boat... you'll need  both boats... I captain the one... Megga Captains the other one... Me Name is Kil....

  ..now  we have  these  engines that run.. we got these Hot  rocks   that make it go.... don't ask me  hot it works.. there's a gnome fellow   at the desert end of this, that makes them work...

 Kree frowns  at the dwarf. then looks to  Ivy.. Ivy shrugs.

  The Blonde Dwarf  walks over, he has an odd looking crossbow on his back, and  two bandoleers of   quarrels, as well as a quiver on his hip,..now?  Ye can take the walkin' path.. you'll get there a day or more  slower..and you'll have to  contend  with the  beasties..but it'll be free...

 Kree  Nods  and reaches into his  Tunic and Pulls out  his pouch.. he    tells the  dwarves to open then  hands... he  slips  a few Plats out.. the dwarves' eyes grow  big... then counts in his head and  adds  a pair of gold to each hand...

 ..where did ya get the Coin Laddie!

 he slips the  ( very thin) purse back into his tunic,..From fools we have Killed, who thought they could  best the  Crimson Arrows... then he smiles a bit,..just so we are clear?... should  we even think, this  is a set up.. those coins and anything else of value  you have  will be ours...

 ..ahh..now   lad?  Why would you be sayin' such things?

 ..I did not live this long...being overly foolish..nor to i make deals  with folks, without letting them know  what  a bad outcome  would mean...

  Kil  smiled a bit,..ack..its  true then...  You split your folks up an' we'll be on our  way...


 Kree turns to the others.....Ivy will take  one   baot. I'll take the others.. Please  step inot the  Boat you wish to travel on...

 Ivy stands  at the    ramp way  to  Megga's   boat.. Kree , By Kil's

Lafisual muses a moment and looks to Shadow.  Why don't we flip for it.  He pulls out a coin.  This side Kree, this side Ivy.    He shows her the side and flips the coin.  It looks like Ivy.  Sound good to you? He shows her the results.

Luthien cares little, although, wearing heavy armor as he does...well, it's not necessarily great for him to be over water. Man overboard is far more lethal when you wear plate.

"Common sense says I'm going to have to take the armor off for a boat ride..."

How irritating.

  The  Dwarves chuckled  at Luthien's plight.

  ...well  me an' me partner here  wear our  Chain all the time.... we figure, if  we fall inta the water?.. somethin' must  have killed us!

In reply to Kree's unit (msg # 120):

Diana goes with Kree

Lucy goes with Ivy

  And Orlin climbs in the boat with the least weight.

In reply to luth (msg # 123):

"The pair of you are also experts with boats. It's not inconceivable for me to lose my balance. Particularly if I'm instinctively protecting someone."

He heads for the opposite boat of Orlin, cause armor IS really heavy.

  Luth gets into the boat  with Kree  Orlin with Ivy and  Lucy...

Brie looks between the boats and sees that the majority of the bow hunters are going on Kree's boat.  She walks up to the boat and pulls him down for a kiss.

"keep safe" she whispers against his lips.

She then nods to Riku.  Take care of him, she says.

The fae flutters atop a mast and looks down at Kree and shrugs her shoulders.

Brie takes to Ivy's boat.

 Kil's  boat pulled out,

Kree

Diana

Luthien

Rolf

Riku

 Megga's   followed  with the  little  'steam' paddles  turning.

 Ivy
 Brie

 Lucy

Laf

Shadow Mist

Orlin

In reply to Lafisual (msg # 121):

 "Ivy's it is. I love rivers. I hope it's a pleasant trip. I like to watch the animals along the banks as we go."

 She settled herself as comfortably as possible and started watching the banks on either side. She pointed things out now and then when something really interesting appeared.

 The   boat ride was smooth..but slow. They were going against the flow of the  rivers  as they traveled south there were some  small  boats on the water.. with  younger people  fishing to bring  food, or  trade goods into the settlements.

 Clear, cold water  and the deep  run of the river, provided many type of creatures... even serpents from  time to time, as fingerings  would get  sucked into the lower  river's  pull and be trapped..The rivers  was only  200 yards wide or so...

  on both shores  the stone had been cut by dwarves and Humans ( and a handful of Gnomes who thought it better to side  with Dwarves then fight them)... this crafting allowed  for Carts and Mounts to ride up the shores... a few enterprising   Grasslanders  would  take  a cart up to the Mouth of the lower river, and  wait for fares.. or chatge merchants to haul their good, knowing the merchants would not want to port the goods the whole  way to the Village, on foot.

 now and then , grottos  appeared.. that served  as 'meadows' for the  underground.. with sunlight  coming through  holes in the roof , where rocks  had Jutted to the surface...now and then...they could see other    tunnel entrances.. Kree remarked on these.

 ..Aye, there  be tunnels  scattered  about.. some formed from nature.. some  from me kinfolk...and some from our dark cousins.... we must always  keep an eye on those passages... as creatures wander through..or scouts  fer some of them raiding parties...

 "I love grottoes! They always feel serine to me. Especially if there are waterfalls in them. The sound of water tinkling in the chambers makes it so peaceful and relaxing."

 She looked at the entrances of the grottoes with interest to see what she could glimpse inside as they went by. Maybe someday she'd come back this way to explore some of the caverns and ravines.

  On the River, things  were  quiet, save for the  bit of conversations, and the Rythmic slap of  the paddles on the water.

  Kil called out over the water,..things  keep going like this?...we'll be  the water Flow in about  4 hours... if any of ya have stale  water in your water skins?.. dupe it out now, and get this fresh stuff...

Brie walks, if possible, in a path along the side of the boat and looks over towards Kree's.  She moves towards Ivy.

What do you know of these lands? she asks. Meaning, you are from this area as I am not.

She keeps her bow ready and her arrows easily accessible in case there was a sudden attack.  She would frequent her gazes along any visible shoreline for hidden attackers or bowers.

In reply to Shadow Mist (msg # 132):

Yes they do seem relaxing for sure.  The sound of water is soothing like no other.  Lafisual listens and refreshes his water as well.

   Orlin is skittish at first.  But the calm water and beautiful surounds relaxes him.  He fills his water. "This IS nice...though it be strange to be movin along an kicken back at the same time.  My people make poor sailors."

 Kree was  checking the arrow heads on his shafts.. wiping  down the   shafts  with a loving touch  one would expect  for a child , or pet.

 ..Enjoy this.... Cool... moist... fresh water? and Shade... we won't see that of  a long  time, if we have to enter the sands...

   Orlin supresses a smile, "Aya, I imagine what water there is in the desert isn't moist at all."

In reply to Orlin lion soul (msg # 138):

"I've heard about travel on the sands.  From what I have heard, we would be absolutely nuts to walk it.  We need animals called Camels." Diana said.

"Never seen one.  Never been on the sands.  But from what I've heard, they are the only way to travel on the sands.  Only the suicidal dare to walk the sands.  Besides, walking the sands is an invitation for every bandit and slaver in the area to come and attack." Diana said.

"But that's just what I've heard."  Diana said.

Luthien's still rather reluctant about the whole desert thing, considering how problematic his metal armor's going to be...but he has a mission to do...

In reply to Lafisual (msg # 135):

 She smiled and sat back to relax more letting the wind cool her skin with an occasional splash of water from the side of the boat.

 "Too bad we don't have a pole and line and hook. I enjoy fishing now and then."

Yes, even if you don't catch anything that can be rather relaxing. Lafisual leans back as well and relaxes while he still can.

  When going  under a large  arch way.. they could see some humans , in the robes of sages  On top.. looking at items, brushing things off, and  putting some things into  crates.

  Kil pointed up, some 100 feet above them,..them Tome Lovers? They heard there was some stuff up there from folks who died some 100o years ago?.. think they can find out what the   LAnds were Like before  Bowshot  and Ironmound... ta  my way of thinkin"... they'er  dead.. so it don't matter much...

 megga  called over  as he took out his pipe,..we gotta another hour..maybe a bit less... before  we hit the docks...

  they could  see the 'roads' on either side of the river hand more  carts, and   beasts of burden .. some of them were going down side passages.

   Traveling down the cool dark tunnels, the areas  only Lit by  Lanterns  maintained by  Dwarves and Grasslanders.... or  the occasional hole in a grotto  roof, the  boats paddles  around a rather big bend.

  As the rounded the bend, they saw the 'mouth' of  this underground waterway, widen out... children  fished  from the  edges sometimes  pulling out  a small serpent.. sometimes  a fish...

 Older   people fished  as well... Net casting, or  with  whip like pole made from younger  limbs of ironwood... to the  east of the Docks  were some Houses.. built at the Bottom  and Upwards into the  cavern walls.

 to the west , a Market place was set up. Tents from the sands... Huts  from the rgasslands... wagons from?  all over. smoke rose to the cavern roof to be  dispersed  into  tiny  crevices and holes.. the smell of   stews, meats and  Fish being cooked... as well as the echos  of merchants hawking wares.

 The Docks  were home..only to  Paddle boats... Guards in Greyish armor kept watch.....  behind the Dcoks were a few Inns... small but crowded and lit up... and a  Large  Tuneel  leading South.

 there  was also a  gate of sorts, across the mouth of that  entrance..  a few dwarves and Elves in grey armor stood  watching

...........


 Kil spoke  Loud  enough for both boats to hear.. there was a good chance folks fishing  could hear him  as his voice  carried over the  water.... This place is called.. " The Docks"... only   the Underriver  boats  may use the docks... not that anyone else  could  bring  a ship down here?.....anyway... to  the left  are the Homes of the folks who live  and work here... in  the middle  Inns and such for travelers, and  natives alike ta drink  eat and carouse.... to the right.. ya see the market... almost all the folks who come down the tunnel..don't go any further then that... they come to sell or buy..maybe  even fish?.. the few who move on  down the Underriver.. are mostly folks like you... adventure folks..mercs... or..sometimes..merchants who want to  go deeper into  the  Empire  lands.. we sorta like those folks.. they  sell and tade a lot a  our Village...

 Megga  adds,..That Tunnel in the Middle? It  leads up to the Lather  River.. there's a small trading Post there as well.. for  folks who are afeared of goin' down below...

    Orlin had been resting against the strain of future travel wakes up.  "Excellent.  Any apothocaries, Some dried, rose hip would help us weather the desert better.  Make it so we need less water...for awhile."

  Kil waves to wards the market.....best to check over there... me?.. i only look for good  meat..strong ale, and parts fer the boat!

 Kree nods  as he  Begins  to shift his  pack up, onto his shoulders,..we  casn stay for a bit.. a meal.. browse markets if you wish...but since we have  no fear of traveling in the darkness?.. we can push on through the Tunnel...

    Orlin nods, "just thinking we can take jerky and hard tack into the desert, but fresh fruit is a problem and I get a feeling the team needs to stay in fighting shape for this one."  He's obviously used to thinking about maintaining the general health of a community but is having trouble adapting his position to this group.  "Will we really have to ride creatures to get across the dessert?"

  Once the  Boats   docked, the dwarves helped secure gang planks. Kree was the first to Disembark .  Kil stood next to him as Kree paid off the rest of the ride.

  ..Now?.. Lemmie tell  ya this?.. You get to the top?.. and  ya figure you don't wanna walk no more... ya stay away  from boats the Sandfolk run?

 Kree looks around at the others, then Back to Kil,All of them?

 Lookit... everyone  hast ta have a way to make a livin' ain't no one sayin' they shouldn't.... but the sandfolk..  ya never know which ones  will slave ya out to Cat folk or worse?... so?.. let them make  coin off their own kind.. an' ye be safe... we need  Arrows..least ways..Arrows Like yerself...

  Kree smiled a bit, Until that last part,..what do yo mean, by that?

  Kil shrugged,  we seen other Arrows... some  folk seem well suited  to thier work?.. But   there was one  group here.. maybe.... 6 months ago?.. didn't lie him at all..Human fellow was thier leader and...

 ..Carn?

 ..huh?... Yeah..How'da know?

 .. he took over a unit in  the Trace Wood.... he is also missing on whole unit.... whom we seek..

 There was a shake of the shaggy head,Well... That CArn fella?  he didn't seem to give   2 damns one way or the other..never  seemed to be lookin fer them?.. he was just...'passin' through'

As they slowly approached the docking port, she saw the ones above and slowly raised her bow, hesitating as an explanation quickly followed.

She let out a breathe she didn't know she was holding and when they were able to step off the boats she checked on everyone and made sure they had all their belongings.  Once everything had been gotten and the boat was cleared, she happily and quickly made her way to being near Kree's side.

That ride was nearly unbearably tolerable.

    Kree waited for everyone   to disembark, once they were on the Dock, he said,..there is supposed to be a trading post at the entrance  we will be headed to.... Mok should not  be much further of  travel...from there. Still..if there is anything you wish to purchase. best get it now.... I will wait by the gate.. when you are ready, we will push on....

  Ivy.. but  a few bottles of Elven wine, we will split it up, among those who wish to carry them...and?.. try not to sqaunder time  on wenches...

 Ivy frowns.....wenches.. are never  time squandered!  he moves off to towards  the Inss,  Kree  moves to the gates.

Orlin checks for advice and items that will help them cross the desert

In reply to Shadow Mist (msg # 141):

We could look for one now that we are here.  I don't know exactly how much time we have but maybe some moments.  I don't know how well it will keep though in the desert.  Lafisual shrugs.  I don't know that I have a lot of other supplies to bring but if you have some thoughts on it?  You seem to have been a lot of places...is the desert one of them?

  Kree  talked  with some of the guards  By the  Gate, then moved  to sit on the  benches on either side, as   he waiting for his  Unit to  browse, eat or drink.

 The Gate  Guard  Unfolded a map  and was pointing   something out to Kree.

  Orlin doesn't  find much in the way of help.

  Mostly they  try to sell bigger water skins, or   Thin Metal water bottles.

  Ivy returns to the Bate with a Bundle of  bread loaves, each wrapped in a bartowel...They had  7 fresh ones.. i got them all....

  Kree  waited for others  to come around, he motioned  for Brie  to take a  towel wrapped  loaf..

  Rolf came over ..Explainign they he  may leave once they reach the surface. Kree nodded  and  told him to take a Loaf anyway.. either way, it would come in handy. Rolf  smiled at the Understanding and sat down with the two cousins and Brie, waiting  for the others...

Brie took a loaf wrapped it up well and out it in her satchel.  She headed alongwith the group.

Lafisual grabbed the basic rations and water.  Not finding anything else he headed to where everyone was waiting.

Diana did a bit of shopping.  She got a lot of water and several days rations.

Lucy also stocked up on the water.  If they were going into the desert then they would need it.  She also got several days rations.

 Once   the others  appear,  Ivy hands out the loaves  of bread, and the  Company leaves the GAtes.

  the 'road ' is  stone.. some ridges  carved in, on purpose to help with tractions  and have  water  fall off the  side to the  crevasses on the  right hand side, that hlp  add to the underground River.

  Kree and Ivy , bid  farwell to Rolf, hoping to see him again......Lucy? You and Ivy that point. I do not  foresee any problems, but it will not hurt to have scouts...

 Ivy  takes the side  near the    crevasse .

The others  move  along...

In reply to leaving (msg # 159):

Lucy nodded.

she went out some 25 yards in front of the party to act as advanced scout.  She kept her eyes and ears open, as well as sniffing the air every now and then.

  The  wall up the  rocky path is  not boring, even if it is quiet. Area's are lit  by enchanted  stones, or  large , oil  fed  troches .  areas  where   grottos appeared were lit   by luminous moss,

 Ivy and Lucy, ahead of the main Group, greet some travelers  who were walking  down, sometimes staying out of the way of  carts....


  Calling  down  to   Kree and the others,.. They say,  another   hour or  two to reach the   mouth of the passage...

 as they travel up the  slope, they see areas were the  'path' had been cut  by dwarves , to enable  shoes going up or  down, an easier time.

 The , natural path was  used as w2ell. mostly  by  single folks  or pairs  who did not want to  take the Long way up. Kree  eyed those   splits, more then once, but always   waved Ivy  and Lucy forward, to continue the  wider path

     The sounds  of people talking and  Horses, goats  and  wagons  could be heard. The sky was  a bit  dim as the  sun was going to hide behind the trees of the Black Timber.

  But the sight that greeted them, was the  Yellow-red of the sands, seeming to catch fire, so many , many miles  away.

   as they neared the  entrance, there were dwarven guards   sitting at tables  made of kegs and planks.. Two  Palisade grates  , one inside the tunnel, one out. could be closed. and uet let bow men  and   crossbows cut  down attackers.

   Outside the  Tunnel were   dozens of tents.. some   were easy to tell because of the gaudy colors of the sandfolk. Other  were drab and browns of  grasslanders and forest folk.

 The Smell of Boar, beef  Venison and  river rat, as well as serpent and fish wafted over the  area.

 As   Ivy and  Lucy exited the tunnel, shouts of  younger merchants  sent to try and bring the group over to their masters...

 One thing, Kree had  not yet see. were  a dozen or  so people with chains and collars  , outside the short rock wall. That protected the  trade site.

In reply to kree's unit (msg # 163):

Lucy came out of the tunnel, and paused.  The sights and sounds and smells were overwhelming for a second.

"If we are going into the sand, we need Camels." she said to Ivy.

"Walking in the sand is just insane, and as good as we are, inviting both enemy and other issues.  I have no doubt we can handle any trouble that comes out way, it's the sand that I'm worried about.  The sun can suck you dry in the daylight and the cold night can freeze you." She said.

"I know Kree has an animosity about animals, but if we are going on the sand, Camels are as necessary as water." She said.

 Ivy nods,..if  we  go to the sands   will get what we  need in Mok.. we got a couple days  to get there, Unless  we grab  a boat...

 We get to enjoy grass and water for  a bit more... he smiled as he said this, but his voice held no joy.

   "You are glum" Orlin notes of Ivy

  Ivy  nods  slowly as he looks  around,..I like the woods... but i like the streets, and alleys .... Kree can handle himself in the city, but he much perfers the wilds.... the desert... is an abomination...

"Not looking forward to it meself." He gazes off at the expanse, "But the faster we cross it the faster it's behind us."

  Kree   pointed to  his people,we should be  fine  for  food, But if there is anything you want to eat or drink.. get it now....

   Merchant  boys  and Grils  Pulled on his   cloak, he   just shook his head.. then he saw the  chained  People, and began to move with a purpose, as some of the  Grasslander Guards   moved to try and intercept him.

Brie had spread out a bit to make up for Rolf's departure.  Riku too to the air but kept close not being familiar to this area.

When it was time to break, Brie crouched down and rested on the ball of her feet.

    The Grassland  guard ( who ..it seems , were in charge of this   'marketplace',  stopped in front of Kree.

  ..where are you going?...

 ..I am going to see why these people are in chains?

  ..those  people... are goods  from  the Sandfolk merchant.. we will not permit them to be sold in  our market place...so they must stay out here...


 The elf  eyes the   spears of  two of the guards  while the fellow  who is in charge holds his blade...I want to see  who, and what these people are.... You know , slaves are not abided by the Empire

 ...Mok is not part of the Empire...nor  is the Golden Sands... we cannot...

  Kree    pushed  past the  man  and  strode  towards the SAndfolks who  stood Guard over the  slaves.

 The Sandfolk stood  as the  Elf approached  followed by the other  three.

 Ivy was moving a bit faster as he  came up on Kree's  left flank, but some good 20 yards  away.

  A tall dark skinned  man, in lavish silks drew a curved  Blade, his   teeth flashed  white in the growing darkness,...you have   come to browse out Goods?

  Kree   grinned  back,...it depends  on the price....

 an Older Elf  from the MArket place with two more  guards   hustled after the  adversarial elf......NO!...NO!...WAIT!

 The    Tall dark man said,..I do not think you have the coin....

 Kree drew his Blade....... I am thinking,  I can make an offer...

  Orlin was close on Kree's heels. Too many of his people had been sought after by slavers as beasts of burden.  The creature in his staff felt that all things should be free and was no doubt mumbling some wicked suggestions. "How much DO you think your lives are worth."  His green eyes glowing unnaturally brightly beneath his hood.

In reply to Orlin lion soul (msg # 172):

Diana watched the scene play out, and moved to Kree's right flank, some 10 yards away.  she kept her hand close to her blade.

All she needed was a signal from Kree.

Lucy was close to Ivy.  She watched the scene play out, and followed Ivy's lead.

She had removed her bow and kept it handy, just in case.

Although, truth be told, she was not looking forward to a fight in the confines of the town.  Too many guards, and innocents could get in the way.

Yet, she  also understood Kree's rage against slavers.  Still, some slavers there was little or nothing one could do about.

Other then come back at night and make a "raid" on the slave quarters, freeing as many as possible.

"Ivy, perhaps we can come back tonight and raid the place." She said to him in a low voice, so nobody else could over hear.

"We would have the advantage of both surprise and darkness.  Free all we can, and then disappear back into the darkness." She said.

Lucy was close to Ivy.  She watched the scene play out, and followed Ivy's lead.

She had removed her bow and kept it handy, just in case.

Although, truth be told, she was not looking forward to a fight in the confines of the town.  Too many guards, and innocents could get in the way.

Yet, she  also understood Kree's rage against slavers.  Still, some slavers there was little or nothing one could do about.

Other then come back at night and make a "raid" on the slave quarters, freeing as many as possible.

"Ivy, perhaps we can come back tonight and raid the place." She said to him in a low voice, so nobody else could over hear.

"We would have the advantage of both surprise and darkness.  Free all we can, and then disappear back into the darkness." She said.

  Pointing  to the lowering sun, Ivy says,..Night comes  soon, Good  Lucy. And the slaves are being kept outside the walls....This...is not  right...but then again, we are  on the fringes of the Empire...

 there were some   5  slavers near the people... the people looked  worried as the  scooted back away from the armed slavers

In reply to Ivyain Nightblade (msg # 175):

"Aye, it's not right.  That's why we use the cover of darkness to make it right.  Free the slaves, kill the slavers, and leave no witnesses behind." She said.

"Doing anything here, will only raise their alert.  Make the night's work that much harder.  Tell Kree to stand down.  There's another way." She said to Ivy.

"We will see them again tonight."

  Ivy  Frowns  as he looks at Lucy, then calls Out,..Coursin?.. A word....

 Kree stops as he see the looks on Ivy's  face... The salvers  are laughing  shouting taunts,"..That is the smart thing Pointy ear!"...."... they saved your life!"

 Kree Glared at Ivy,... there best be a damnably good reason for this.... he hissed the words out, more then he spoke them.

 Pointing to Lucy,..she has  an Idea.. maybe  wait  for   the Sun to go into its hole , the whole way?..Then Strike?

 I wanted us to travel this  night, we had more then enough rest.. we could be, well over, half way to Mok by sun climb...

 The older Grasslands  Elf  reaches them at this point...Please!.. YOu are not going to make trouble outside the MArket walls... he looked worried  and  the two guards with him looked stern.

  a flick of his Cloak had Kree's longsword pointing towards the  slaver Camp,..you allow that scum, not only to live?...... But you trade with them? You know the Empire's  laws... and by the gods you know the Elven laws..

 The  fellow tried to draw himself up straight,..According to the treaties.... The Empire's laws  end one half mile  from our side of the river...... The  Sand Folk's laws end, the same way on the other side.... he points his shaking  finger at the 3 foot high stone wall,..the wall marks  the end of  Empire law....That is why they must camp outside the MArket...

 ..and what  of Elven Law? You would  suffer these animals to not only live?.. but  earn coin? What would you do..if there were Elven folk...

 The   older  elf looked  down at the ground.

 Kree grabbed him but the robe with his  free hand, Ivy , Pulled him  back as the  guards  leveled thier spears...you have!.. You allowed them to  keep Elves, in the past!

  The   Slavers  were still taunting Kree, though thier taunts were lost for the moment, and the sandfolk could not hear the exchange, but they could see the  confrontation as the  sun's   light grew weaker.

 ..we buy elven slaves.. and free them....it keeps trade going and... The older elf's voice  was low..there was hints of sobbing...

 ..but?.. it is  just fine, to allow  human women and children to suffer in chains... be sold for ..who knows what..purpose.. because you are afraid to hurt trade?.. Use your  gods be damned head... you have the safest passage in the  grasslands.... you can have  goods from both sides, funneled safely... and yet you choose to allow slavers to breath, because of a few coins?

 One of the guards lowered his spear tip,... they have made threats of raids....

 Kree glared at the guard,..Then let them raid...Merchants will be happy to know that slavers  die here...because if slavers die..so do bandits... and behind you..you have Ironmound dwarves, along with your own people?

 THe  guard  just looked away.. the other  was  still ready...The older elf  said in a tired tone,..the laws of protection  still bind us, as they have come to trade, they just are not allowed to  sell..or buy..slaves in our  market..Unless we buy elves from them...

 ... so?  You are telling slaves, they can sell elves... TO ELVES!!

 the Older ZMerchant steps back at the shouted words.

 Kree looks at the guards,..the Empires laws end at the wall...aye?... and the   Sandfolk's  Laws only take effect on the other  side of the river.. so? That would seem  to me.. THat Arrow's Laws are in effect..since they follow us, where ever we go? Are you and your  fellow guards, willing to die, to protect slavers?

 The Guards look at each other and Kree  nods to the one who had Pout down his spear point,.. You go.. you tel the other guards and such.. that slavers have no  law of protection here.. in..or outside the wall.. and if there are slaver  folk in your market... either take the prisoner, or.. force them to leave.. but that pack there?

 he points with his blade again,..Die....

 Ivy    Nods with a frown  as he nocks an arrow.. Both Guards  head off towards the  Market.. the old fellow looks at Kree and  asks,...why?

 ..because.. there are folk out there, who will not be saved... and  will suffer and die as slaves... hoping, that someone will  save them.... I cannot...will not... let a pack of vermin like this live...

 The older  fellow  tries to sound stern,..but?  might not they  have  spouses..children and homes?... did you think of that?

 Kree said,..the difference is this.... They chose thier deaths.. slaves..have  their forced upon them.. Kree turned to face the Camp again.. the taunts were flying  even more.. one of the slavers  even belted a slave who said  something  with the back of hus gaunleted hand..
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:46, Tue 14 Nov 2017.

  as Kree  began to step towards the  slaver Camp once more, the older fellow looked at Ivy,..he is mad!.. he will not listen to reason!

   Ivy's eyes were already  searching for the best target, for his first arrow,..Slavers  raided our village.. Killed my intended and our child... Killed our  mother  and our  'mentor'..and  stole our sister, among others....we joined The Black hunt.. killed slavers..lost people, killed more slavers..we  found the Slaver lord's  home a few Miles outside of Engar...we only have  6 elves with us.. 3 from the Trace Wood... we freed slaves.. Killed ths slaves who have become..'loyal' to thier masters...and were armed and such..... But they were lucky... There is a clan of golins that travel about.. They called themselves the Wind Clan, as they travel where ever they can go, but harm no one..unless they are attacked.... Kree had made a deal with them.. he turned the slaver's  wife and daughters over to the Goblins for thier...'sport'.. and he made the Slave lord watch.. when the Goblins were done, they took the women and a fair shair of treasure  and left...vowing to be our allies if we should come across them... The  Slaver Lord was  staked to  the   wall of his dining room, and the building set on fire ..so?.. aye.. you could say, Kree is a bit mad... but? Only when it comes to slavers...
 Ivy brought up his bow, and gave the  older merchant a sidelong glance,..and?.. those who aid them.....

 The older  merchant  scurried away.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:48, Tue 14 Nov 2017.

   Orlin follows quickly and snags the older Elf by the cloak as he starts to leave and says between clenched teeth.  "I am goin ta turn into something big and mean to deal with these men.  Any who attack me are likely to die.  I don't suggest you let any good people attack me."

   He walks back to Kree thumping his staff on the ground with each step, and with each thump The staff flashes and a seal is broken until there is only one left.

Diana watched the process play out.  She slowly drew her bow, and notched it.  There would be killing now.

She targeted one of the slavers, aiming center mass.

Lucy was a bit disappointed that Kree chose to attack now.  Raiding the slavers at night would have been a good plan.

But he was commander, and she followed orders.

She drew her bow, notched an arrow, taking aim at a slaver.

this would have been so much easier at night.

Lafisual is roused a bit from his thoughts and readies an arrow.

  Taunts  from the slaver  Camp  began to  die  down.. the   sun was  just a sliver as the shadow seemed to  roll across the  lands.

    Kree did not Bother  with his  bow, his Blade  was  out as he strode with Purpose.

 Two slavers    were running to the Camp site, carrying items they have  purchase  as they seemed surprised ( scared)

 Orlin was  close to  Kree ..  Ivy had  Fanned out  Keeping his targets  in sight.. two.. that he had  picked out...


  the others  formed  a  battery of bows...


 The  Man with the Gaunlet  seemed Concerned,... if not in disbelief...

 ..How does it  feel?...... You thought you were safe... instead.. you are about to die..HOW DOES IT FEEL!!!

 The Mad elf  ran forward.. The Gaunleted man Turned...RUN!...TO THE SHIP!...

 When the  fellow said that, Ivy  cast a   quick Grin at  Lucy... then loosed  an arrow. The fellow ontop the  cart with a Crossbow, ws hit, and  fell from the top... whether he lived or not.. known

  four slavers ran  down the slight slope  towards the river... near some   thickets  was a one masted   ship.. there was a flurry of activety

  One feloow  charge d Kree with a wicked  looking  Pike , his teeth whiet aganst his skin...  two more charged  Orlin... The  slaves  were  cheering.. the guards at the market...watched.

In reply to slaver (msg # 183):

At the last minute, Lucy ditched her bow, and drew her blade.  She charged one of the slavers, attacking with a hiss and a growl.

Her blade flashed with one had, and her claws with the other.  She head butted the slaver she had targeted, before going in for the kill.

Diana fired her first arrow at one of the fleeing slavers.

She fired her first arrow at the legs of one of the fleeing slavers, taking her time and firing a second arrow into a shoulder.  A third arrow was aimed for the abdomen, and then a fourth arrow into the chest.

She took her time with each arrow.  This was personal, and it wasn't every day one could play with killing a slaver.

When that slaver as dead, she turned to the next target, also taking her time in killing him with four arrows.  One to each leg, one to the stomach and finally one to the chest.

   The Slavers fell.... to be fair.. they thought they were, indeed safe... and figured the mouthy Elf, was put in his place by his brothers...

     then  the daft fellow charged... and the Bowmen lined up.. it wasn't  until thier comrade fell from the wagon.. and the big fellow  shouted.. that fear Gripped them.

  The  Fellow   that came  for  Kree had the elf dead to  rights.. the  nasty looking pike point centered on the elf's  chest,  but the  elf merely turned  sideways, a slash of the  gleaming long sword took the man's   right hand.. he  Dropped the Pike screaming at the stub...  and Kree was gone..  leaping over   bedrolls  and crates of goods

  A fellow  fell with a third arrow struck him... he Kree could hear Lucy's attack sound  as she   fell to the  ground  rolling close to the camp with  the one slaver who had a bow ready

  the other  two  men closed in on Orlin..

 halfway to the river's  edge was the  Gauntleted man.. behind him 3  other  slavers  running as they cast looks over their shoulders..

 the  ship was raising its  sail..at least 4 men on the deck with crossbows.

   Orlin swung his great staff, but rather than engaging the slavers, he swung in a great arc at ankle level sweeping their feet out from under them.  Before they had hit the ground, he had spun back around and was in lion form.  His great claws hooked around their shoulders blades through their clothing and he sprang onto the air beating his wings with all his strength.  It wasn't easy with the weight of two full grown humans but soon he was high enough that they were dead if he dropped them.

  the  other ships that were   along the shore set up thier own sailors  and  such  to keep the slavers  away from thier ships.

  Kree was   gaining easily on the  gauntlet man .. another  slaver fell with  arrows placed in parts of  his body.. there was  only the leader and one other  trying to make the ship.. the leader was  screaming for them to way Anchor..

  Some creature   held  two screaming slavers  above the Ground  as they scruggled..   Ivy   ran a few  yards and aimed  for a sailor  who was  drawing to draw up the anchor.. two  sailors  came  running  down the gangplank aiming at the  charging  Elf..

 Lucy had  finished off her  slaver and looked  around. the camp was empty exept  for the slaves.. and two slavers that the guards held at spear point.

Lafisual moves up to find a shot at one of the crossbow users on the ship.

  The "creature" flew above the slaver ship and forcibly threw the slavers at the men on the slaver ship who had the crossbows.  I imagine it would be difficult to aim with your buddies slamming into you or the deck around you with concussive force.  If the crossbowmen are sufficiently distracted, the winged lion should be able to pounce on them tearing them to shreds.

 Bodies fell  screaming..either  in pain or fright...or both. They slammed into the harwood  deck, splattering   the wood, and a few sailors..

 The Crowwbowmen near the ramp looked around, then Up.. at the   Flying  creature...

  Laf's  arrow caught  another crossbowman  near the Bow, who fell into the water... his Blood , calling to the serpents  as he  tried to  get back to shore.

Change in plans.  The monster dives to gain spead along the ship then cuts sharply above the deck snagging the man who is pulling up the anchor...somone else to throw at the deck from a safe distance.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:24, Thu 16 Nov 2017.

Luthien prefers close quarters, but that doesn't seem possible at the moment. So he picks off fleeing slavers as they go, one arrow after another.

Lafisual continues looking for targets.

  The Gauntleted  Man stopped, for a breath  as he people rained from the Sky. He watched the creature  grab another  one... even as  screams  from the water came to him,  as smaller serpents had  arrived  to feed.

  The people from the other Boats  had  weapons ready... white humans from down  the coast...more  dark skinned folk from the sands.. or , perhaps up river.. they neither lent  aid to the slavers.. nor aided the Arrows.

  Laf found  One  feloow trying to get  to a  small hatch below  decks.. his arrow caught the fellow's  shoulder, but he slipped under the hatch

   Orlin continues to clear the deck saving the guantlet man for Kray.  When there are almost no soldiers present he lands causing the scow to rock, and seems unsteady on his feet for a moment.  He will not however allow the man to go below decks, blocking him without attacking.

   Kre   slowed his  approach... again, he seemed not the slightest bit worried about other   slavers, trusting in his comrades to take care of them.. The    'leader' stepped onto the  ship  as it Bucked and swayed.. there was  one  wounded fellow, that Laf had brought  down with a shaft to the thigh.

   the fellow in the water  stopped  sreaming, but the  splashes in the water,  told anyone that the smaller  serpents  were enjoying their mean ,away from the Bigger   cousins.

  Ivy  moved up stream a bit his bow  still focused on the slaver ship. he called to the HUmans who were on the first ship,..If you are not slavers? You have no fear from us. If you are slavers.. you better kill us now....

  a Man in a  leather  waistcoat waved off his guards,  , he walked to the stern of  his  ship  to watch the  goings on.

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

 The Sand  folk, who had   the next two ships behind the slaver  vessel.. looked a bit worried... the last one in line  was  calling its people to  board.

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

 The Leader , who was a bit mouthy before.. looked  frightened... he looked about his ship.....You...You have not the Right!....this is free lands.. no laws  from the Sands.. no laws from the Empire.... Just.. trade laws...
 Kree looked over the deck a moment before he crossed the  gangplank. his Blade  still  ready.

 ...so?.. if you are a slaver.. or even.... an ordinary Bandit... You see a little farmstead.. of Patch Houses..or..a small caravan... you pounce on them..no matter where they 'laws' reach.... I am the counter balance to that.... I....and my comrades... pounce on any we find who are..the dark sort...The gods like that, you see... The Sisters..love it...keeps   luck flowing each way..Good luck for the slaves that i found you...bad luck for you..that i did..

   The great winged lion walks up behind the leader and sits calmly down, seeming to listen to Kray.  The tip of his tail twitched.  If anyone disturbs him things will get horribly violent.

  Kree walked up the  Leader fellow. The  Man Drew  a  nasty looking one handed Axe.

  ..you will offer me a  fair  Fight?

  ..No?  Are you daft ? I came here to  kill you..or have you killed.. why would i allow you to kill me? or harm someone else? when you pluck people from thier  Lives..who cannot  possible  fight back?

 ..come then?... I will, at least take you with Me...

 Kree looked  distracted as he pointed to the   hatch at the  stern,with his Blade...Some one see, what's in the hold....


  The  Man  rushed  Kree, his  axe seemed faster then it should be.. and the  Gauntlet  glowed  just a bit.  the  blade Cut  into Kree's   Left  Shoulder .. a yelp of anger  ans surprise  Brought  the   Hilt Of His Blade into the mans Face, and shattered  teeth flew.

 the  zip of  an arrow  hit the  Leader's   side  as Ivy placed   an arrow.. the  Man stumbled to his  Knees. He tried to get up , using the  Axe  to   try to Kree Kree at Bay..

   The Lion closes from behind the instant the man approaches Kree and slashes at the slavers neck with his great claws.  The great paw should rip into his jugular quite nicely.

  The Man  screams..shortly..before gurgling  sounds  finish his life.

 Kree  drops  to one   knee as he drives his   sword into the deck. and  grasps his wounded shoulder.

 ...Get some one in the Hold... he lowers his head,..have  any remaining slvers  brought  down here.. Free the slaves.. but tell themn to wait  for me in the slaver's camp...

 Ivy    Runs up the slope towards the slaver Camp.

The gem on the lions head flickers "Once I leave this form I won't be any good for awhile and it's getting difficult to to control the old one's impulses.  The sand people on one of the other ships are looking very worried.  If I grant the old one free reign to go "inspect" their ship, it might make him more cooperative latter.  Will you be alright?"

  Kree   shooks his  head, still not looking up...those in the other  ship, did not  attack us  or aid the slavers... we might....be  better  served to  let thembe, for now....I could  do with some healing... My leathers   took the brunt of the BAlde.. but i am...sorely wounded.

  Ivy comes  down the slope  with three slavers... two that were taken, and one thet was trying to escape into the CAve entrance.

Lafisual moves over to Kree and applies some healing as needed.

  Kree's shoulder is Bloody, the leathers are  cut a bit at the shoulder, and  the Blade went into  the meat, Just short of the Bone. He Nods his thanks  as Laf  works on him.

  ..someone.. Check that Axe and Gauntlet....this  should not have happened...

  ..anyone  go down after the   bastard  who  went through the stern hatch.... I want him.. and I want to  know what is down there.

 Luthien? See to the slaves that they are released... have them pick out  any goods they want of need from the slaver's  supplies at the CAmp... make sure they get Fed.

Diana stormed the slaver ship, with the rest.

When Kree said to release the slaves from the camp, she could barely hide her smile.

So, she joined Ivy in making her way to the slaver's camp.

  Orlin collapses into his normal shape again.  He sits back on his ankles in a kneeling position.  "Yeah, they're definitely magic." He breaths hard trying tokeep his eyes open. "You have a potion?  I've picked up several if you need one."

  Kree  shook his ehad  again....no..i spread   the potions out.. they are hard to come by... but.. i will happily take one, to augment Laf's  healing.

 ....The sisters  smiled at me, at least... Good Luck, that he  decided to run..bad luck for him, he waited  until we were on deck to attack... I...I would not have expected this  on the slope coming down..

If those potions have some healing magic that I don't feel free, but I think my healing spells can handle it without wasting a potion. Lafisual casts healing spells as necessary to close the wound.

 Kree Nodded,Agreed.. save the Potions....

 he motions to the dead leader,take those items.. let us see what they do..and we will see who among us can use  them... search teh bodies..tak anyhting of woth, then  feed the serpents..

   Orlin nods "Indeed." then falls asleep right there on the deck.  His staff crystal glows in satisfaction

Luthien, meanwhile, took care of the slaves, attending each of them as needed. He also took time to note which of them were good, and which of them were not so good, as was the will of his goddess. This would let him know which of the released slaves might bite the hand feeding them...and which he would do well to send off to the temples. Being rescued like this could have a profound impact on people's lives. Many became clerics or holy warriors themselves as a result of such.

  the slaves aren't much different then most folks.. mostly 'grey' some lighter , some darker.. there is a total of 12 in the camp all around 20 years  or  older.


 Ivy   nods to Luthien as he tends to them,...Kree says to  have them  ahve thier  pick of clothing   and  any items they feel they need to make it, to where ver they are going.. I think he mak have plans for what is left.


 Ivy and Di then, return tot eh  slope by the ship.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:10, Fri 24 Nov 2017.

ZZZzzzzz...snort...zzzzzz

In reply to kree's unit (msg # 213):

Luthien outfits them accordingly. "Whatever else you need, let me know, and I will see to it you get it."

  Kree sits on the Deck of the Ship.

  Ivy  looks around   to see if anyone else  will go check below deck..if not , he will.

   The  slaves  that were  released from  thier  chains  , picked out Good   clothing, two of the men took some  worn, by nice leather armor.. and   they took short swords, and daggers.. the  women even took daggers ..one  picked up a short bow and a quiver of Arrows

In reply to kree's unit (msg # 216):

Diana will go below decks with Ivy.

  Moving to the Hatch they  find a low cargo Hold. There is a lot of  crates and a few barrels  near the bottom  of the short set of  steps.  They have to Hunch over a bit.

   Ivy  takes a quick look around and  Grabs a lantern... it takes him a moment to light the  thing.. He  Holds it  up with left  and , and Unsheaths his  Dirk....

  They move  though the stacked  crates and Barrels, the hold is only about 6 foot high..

  They here  some mewlings ,   Ivy calls out,..Look.. I know  slavers  are really stupid... but you can't  get away...  so you may as well come out of  hiding....

 There is  some  rustling in the   dark as they reach  another LAntern.. Ivy lights it  from the lantern he has

 There are some Gasps  as  Ivy turns that lantern way up... In the stern section of the  ship, are some  15 children and 2 woman.. they all are Very thin... half eaten bodies of Bilge Rats lay about.. thier skin is pale   and eyes rimmed in red. The Slaver  is at the very stern with his longsword out.

 ....STAY BACK!... I'LL BLOODY KILL THEM ALL!

  Ivy's eyes  looks at the  women and kids, then slowly back to the slaver,...there is no chance  for  escape... you might kill one or two of them... but you'll never be able to  fight  with that Blade  down here....

  .....Go get help, these   poor wretches   can't  get out on their Own... and  have someone send  for Broth  and bread....

 ..yer gonna  Kill me!

 ..now?  That is a fact... but we have a cleric up there who will judge you... you may just get sent off to Tou or some  town that has a prison... maybe one of your ...'backers'.. will pay for your  relelease ... But if its up to me?.. I cut off your  hands and go serpent fishing...

 Ivy says  , in a softer  tone,..Ladies..... If you are able   follow this    good woman here...if you can carry a little one....do so.... If Not  go upstairs...

 ..this Cleric of yor'n..which god?

 ..... The HUnter, I think? It does not matter.. You will still get heard by him, rather then cut up, by  my cousin or myself....  The sister's blessed you greatly, in that he was wounded by yoour leader...eslewise.. this  talk would have  been...very short..indeed.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:58, Sat 03 Mar 2018.

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 218):

Diana was horrified and saddened by what she saw.

She nodded, and bolted up the stairs.

She called out to any who could come and help.  They had slaves downstairs, half starved.

She returned and began to gently help those who could move up the stairs.

Lucy heard the call for help, and responded.

She hurried after Diana down the stairs, to help with the slaves.

She paused.

"Were those sex slaves?" She asked.

Her hand on her blade was turning white with fury.

Sex traders were the worst.  She had a special hate for their lot, and took way too much joy in killing them slowly.

   The  slaver had not  lowered his blade, though the  woman tried as best they can to   try and get the  children  to move towards the help.

  ..bloody 9 'ells.. no! woudl you wanna have  sex with them?... we keep them down here.. incase  some one want's a young one.. we'll sell them cheap enough.. since they don't cost much to maintain...

 Ivy looked over the  deck with out moving his head,...so?... They live o  Bilge Rats?... and water?

 The slaver  shrugs,..new owners  fatten 'em up..

 Ivy nods  slowly,..You know?.. that long sword is not going to do you, too much good in these tight quarters.....

 .....hump yer sister. mate.. I ain't  droppin me  blade.

 ..You Know?..  right above us  Is my Cousin..and the Body of your leaders.. if you roll the bones right?.. you might get out of this....

  Ivy nods to Lucy,... if  me and her take care of it..well... you will not have an enjoyable time...

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 221):

Lucy looked around, and felt a fury building.

She let out a low hissing growl.

She put her own blade away.  This one was going to be personal and bloody.  This one she would use her claws.

She unsheathed her claws.

she slowly stepped forward, her eyes flashing anger.

"Say the word." She whispered to Ivy.  "Just say the word." She whispered.

  Ivy looked at the Kids   the   sickly women  were trying to move the weak bodied  kids....He's not going anywhere.. and he knows it... Once  we  get the  children   out... I supposed you may have a talk with him

 The  slaver sneered,so?.. yer  tryin' ta  act like  heroes.. But ya  have a Cat with ya?

 ..You should see  some of the Folk  we deal with.... you see, My cousin.. he  doesn't give   a damn what you are... it is how your treat those who cannot  fend for themselves....so...in your  case.. you aren't even fit   for the few Goblin tribes  that are allied with us...

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

  On the Deck , Kree  had  slowly  got to his feet.. he watched  the   pale  kids  and women come up on deck...Luthien.. call for   brother  and bread... and clothing....

 he  made a 'stay' gesture,.. sit on the Dec... relax.. we  will get you food  and clothing. we'll set up tent Cloth on the Deck.. you can eat.. and relax.. well have braziers  for heat
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:56, Tue 28 Nov 2017.

Luthien gets everyone situated with what they need. His presence is usually a relief for the rescued, looking like the Knight in Shining Armor everyone dreams of being rescued by come to life.

"Let me know who needs what, I am here for you all."

Food, clothing, broth, all of it.

  Some of the Market {alce  guards  thought it  would be wise to Help and they  took the Body of the leader and  any dead away, and  scrubbed the deck..

 Kree leaned on the railing, as he said tp some of the guards, I want tubs set up, close to the ship  with a tub.. inside a tent...so they can wash up... then settle in to eat  and  sleep on the deck.. Get that tent cloth set up.. leave the hold  open to air out.

  Kree  shakes his head,we will take this ship up river.... sell of the cargo... but keep the ship, incase we need it... if  we do not?  we will sell it  at Mok.

Lafisual heads down and looks for folks that might need healing and helps them.

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 223):

Lucy let out another low growl.

"I am no gods damned catfolk!" She snarled.

"I am an elf.  My mother was an elf.  Call me a cat again, and even Ivy won't be able stop me from ripping your throat out." She hissed.

.. the logistics  were a bit  rough, but things got  settle.. Half of the slaves  that were at the Camp.. went into the  cave system.. the  other half stayed to help the  kids.. women helped with the  baths.. and the men helped get them on the ship..already the braziers  were warming up the tent cloth  that was rigged  around the Deck.

  Kree went into the Stern castle, there was small rom for the CAptain. and  a dozen hammocks  for the crew.. Kree looked  through the  captain's things, he found the Manifest and say on the  small bed  and began to read through it.

 Ivy waited in the hold  with Lucy,alright by slaver  friend? Now it comes  to your choice.....You may drop your weapons belt and sword  to the  Deck.. or?... we  will drop you.. and  we can take what we like.

 what manner of fools  are you? None other bothered to waste their  time  on this ship... what make you   so  big nosed?

 ..well?  there isn't  any wagons   out there...so  that  would have meant., that you walked those slaves  at the camp?.... But they did not look too bad off... not compared to the little ones you hid in here..... So?... there is  your Camp... no horses.. no wagons...so?.. it had to be a ship?  but which one? we know snadfolk  won't talk to us  elves , unless  you have  entered out  forest with trade goods... then.. to get our coin, you will gladly speak. But none of   your snad brothers  would have  Given information about your ship...nor  could we just walk aboard.....

 The Slaver looked  at  Ivy, with a sidelong glance to Lucy,... so?  ye start a fight..that turns into a battle.. and by chasing us  down to the boat....

 ... we found out which one, was yours...and? Put the fear of god in the other boats...if they felt like helping you out...now?  Belt?

 The  Man snarled,..TO THE  9 HELLS WITH YOU! He  brought his  sword around from a Slash at Lucy...but the Blade  bit into  a beam and stayed there...

 ..foolish snad crawler .... enjoy yourself... Lucy. I will make certain he does not escape...as if he had  any chance...

......

 Hearing the muffled  words of  a shout... Kree continued to mark items on the  manifest and shook his head  with a dark smile.

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 228):

Lucy sprang with catlike speed.  Her left hand ripped the slaver's gut, while the right hand ripped at his face.  As he began to scream, her knee came up to his groin, driving it viciously home.

The man doubled over.  Lucy was about to administer the coup de grace, when she paused.

"Ivy, how about we sell this piece of shit into slavery?" She asked, a very nasty smile on her lips.

"Give him a good taste of the live he would have others endure." She said.

"Now, I know we don't normally engage in such a thing, but wouldn't the irony also send a message?  Sell slavers into slavery." She said with a chuckle.

  ... we can ask Kree?.. we only gave away 3  people since we started  The Black Hunt... that was the Slave Master's  wife and daughters, we gave to the Goblins.. There's a good bet they are ready fed the others to the river..

In reply to Ivyain Nightblade (msg # 230):

Lucy grinned, and slammed her fist into the back of the slaver's head, knocking him out.

Then she bound and gagged him.

"Let's go and ask Kree." She said, with a smile.

She dragged the slaver up the steps, letting him bang against each one.

Then she dumped him on the deck.

She then went to find Captain Kree, and propose her idea.

"Captain, I have an idea, I wanted to run by you.  It will make us some extra gold, and send a message to slavers.  Why don't we sell the survivors into slavery?  Give them the life and misery that they inflicted on others.  Now, I know the Arrows don't deal in slaves, but the irony could send a devious message." She said.

She didn't really expect him to say yes, but hoped he would at least give it some thought.

 The slaver  was  moaning on the deck. Ivy looked into the   room and Called to Kree.

  After a  Moment Kree came out , still holding the Manifest. He looked a bit worse for wear, but still alert as the Night began to claim the lands.

 Upon hearing the  Idea  , he first shook his head no.. then stopped,looking  at the sky,.. the Goblins  we  deal with  are  not near enough for us.. i wil not sell them sels where, because they will, most likely be freed....

 Then he  turned,send the signal to Nara

 Ivy looked  surprised,..Nara?.. her people are far away?

 indeed.... but they may have scouts out.. if not?.. we'll use the fellow  for serpent bait.

 Ivy looked   Unsure, But nodded  and  went off the deck  to a dark place  away from the market and the ships.

 Kree looked at the    fellow who was trying to get up,..there are places  further  down river... where it gets hotter.. the  trees are as big as the  Blacktimber... but made for  growing in the heat...exotic fruits.. and berries.. hard woods,, that are used for everything, from  ships to decorations.... There  the  Black  Folk of what they call..The Jungle..hold sway. If we traveled there.. we could sell this fellow  for a handsome sum. Ane he would   work as hard as the quarry workers in the high peaks.. those  folk have been attacked  and enslaved themselves over  the history of the realms. They take  extra  delight in capturing a slaver.

 ..Still.. he might  find that better, then  meeting Nara's people.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:59, Wed 29 Nov 2017.

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 232):

"Captain, no fate is too good for this piece of shit." Lucy hissed.

When the slaver tried to rise, she slapped him in the mouth with open hand, leaving a bit of claw marks.

"Stay down." She commanded.  "Try to get up again, and I will hamstring you.  Then you will good for nothing but sex work." She threatened.

"And there are men who love having sex with other men.  I hear they are very well hung, and just love busting open virgins." She hissed in his ear.

  kree smiled a dark smile...you may understand, once you meet Nara..if you have not met her  already.

 As he says this,  in the Darkness a Reddish  fire arrow shots  into the air... it sparkles and Glows   as it  slowly falls towards the ground.

 ..A special signal arrow... one of Nara's people is a sage, and alchemist.. if she  , or one of her  people appear, they will give us another.... if they do not?.. well.. we have wasted  our  only arrow.

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 234):

"Captain Kree, Don't misunderstand me.  I was born into slavery.  I hate everyone or anyone who would dare practice it.  So, believe me, when I say, I will find great pleasure in selling this piece of shit into slavery.  And the more brutal the treatment the better." She said.

She gave the slaver a kick in the ribs, just because.  Not a hard one, but one to cause discomfort.

She grinned when the slaver grimaced in a minor bit of pain.

  Ivy returns to the ship,..You saw the Arrow?... Let us hope  one of them sees it  as well..or  we wasted  an important  safety trick..

 ..well, Good Ivy? Mid of Night is  but 5 hours away... if we do not ehar by then.. they did not see it... or did not wish to take the chance to answer..

 ..how many Slavers  are  still alive?

 ..Counting this one?... 4.. there  are three tied up at thier Camp..

  ..Bring them down.. use  the shackles to bind them all togther.. back to back with   thier hands chained to thie feet. There are  2  kegs of  wine there as well..  bring them aboars the ship.. tell the Merchants they  can have all the left over goods

 Ivy Nods and   asks if anyone wants to help with the slavers.

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 236):

Lucy volunteers.

She gives the chain on her "pet" a yank.

"Get up piece of shit." She commands.

When the slaver was slow to respond, she gave him a kick.

She takes him to where Ivy wants to chain the others together.  She takes great pleasure in chaining the slaver's hands to his feet.  He is locked into a position, where his ass is forced into the air.

She gives him a hard slap, making him yelp.

  Kree   carries the manifest with him, ..he stops at Orlin, and gives the fellow a Shake... did that fight take  too much out of you?

 the   woman are feeling better..most of the children are still scared, but  love the feeling of the fresh air and seeing the stars and the  first of the Moons

 Kree looks at the  woman who seems to be in the best shape...Keep the  tent sheets up until it gets to cool.. then lower it to keep warm... you'll see blue skies in the morning.

 Ivy  comes  ans  sits on a small keg near Orlin and looks over the fellow as he says , quietly, to Kree,..what if  Nara cannot come.. what if one of ....the others...come... you are not their favorite person...

 Kree chuckles,..i am very few...people's favorite person... but?..if things should go bad..then Nara will have less people...

 ..now  why did i know you would say that?

 ..because  you are blod.. the words  sing to you even if  i do not speak them.

Orlin attempts to rouse but the effort seems great.  "I...am sorry... sir,"  He takes a deep slow breath.  "The ....old one... is much bigger than me.."  He seems to drift off a little then shakes himself, "it takes...a lot of energy to control.  I'll....I'll just get somwhere ....out of the way."  Orlin drags himself and his staff to the edge of the deck and props himself into a sitting position before passing out again.

    A low, but not quite evil laugh echoes from the staff.  Only five of it's seven Gliffs glow active.  The jewel on it flickers as a deep masculine voice resonates seductively, this time for all to hear:  "He is being modest.  It's quite adorable really.  I'm afraid I wanted to go and play but her overpowered me.  That's not easy for a humanoid.  Even one as robust as this one."

   Again the chckle rumbles forth.

  Kree's eyes shift to the gem, unlike most elevs, the only magic he  liked was healing magic  and weapon magic.

  well?...for whatever side of the  grey line you walk... take  care.. I hear serpent  bellies are full of shiny coins and gems.. and are never  found unless they are caught and killed... it is rumored the bottom of the rivers  are paved  with the treasure that rotted out of  dead serpents ....

 There  is  a eerie whistle from the darkness...Ivy!..Lucy?... lets us go see out.... friends

 the staff can feel the darkness near by..as well as some that tread Grey .

 Luthian shivers at the feeling.. but he has felt this before..

   The staff sighs, "Orlin and I are bound, we have become dependent on eachother.  I've rather grown fond of the little guy as he has much more imagination than his predecessors.  That said I've never been happy about imprissonment of any creature, myself included." There is a pause as the Jewel feels the darkness. "Oh my, what evil this way comes?"  The voice is truly anticipatory.

   It doesn't hide it's nature, and if an alignment could be assigned, it would be chaotic neutral with plaful tendancies.  Yet there is a peculiar dgnity about it as one feels in cats.  Almost a noble sentiment.  Fear seems as beyond it is if it were a Kinder.

  Kree  smiles a bit darkly,..those that have come.. are allies, but not so much...friends. There are one or two  that are..or were... but things have changed in thier lives, and thus..thier lives have changed. I grant them what safety i am able.. for what aid they are able to give us... the balance  shifts..many times...and many times, there has been less people, on one side  of the balance or the other. But?  I maintain my bargain, solely for the one who has caused the bargain to be made. There have been times good folk have suffered for this. But ..as the cards are played and the dice  are rolled, the Sisters seem to favor the  agreement....

 he takes a step then looks back at the resting Orlin and staff,..I think yuou might be interested in them...

   "They sound fascinating, though I dare say Orlin might be less impressed.  I won't tell him if you won't.  It is so nice not to have my speech bound.  Perhaps I should bargain for it with a greater level of cooperation."

 Kree stood there a moment, looking around as he said,..I know....not..what you are. But these things I do know. You helped  a child. made him feel special... Orlin has joined us.. to whatever ends  we seem to be about...

 He pointed to Lucy and Ivy as he made their way to the darkness,..those..'people' there... I know what they are... only one of them.. i know why.... in the end they help me fight, what i consider darkness.. whatever any others feel...That is fine by me. Unless... they  hurt  those who cannot  fight back...

 ... you should try to rouse Orlin... and you both can see, of what i speak.

   There is a pause, the being is not inclined to be cooperative but seems to come to a decision, "The boy has earned respect, and will continue to do so. I'll do what I can with Orlin."  The gem flickers and Orlin's eye's pop open but almost immediately start drooping "Fer heavens sake , couldn't ye leave a poor Ogre to sleep?"  The staff whispers something, and Orlin growls and grabs the staff.  He uses it to lever himself up and look around.  He's very shaky.

  Kree   walks  past the  4  captives, one of them says,..hey!.. ye  pointed ear bastard.... I wan't  even in the camp... i was  shoppin' in the bloody  market!

 ..They paid you... with  coin earned  as a slaver..so.... you are tainted as they...

 There is a  small light  from candle  in the Darkness. as  they neat the Light  they  see  six figures shrouded in Black  step a bit closer.. 5 of them stop.. the smaller one keeps walking, it stops   before Kree and Ivy ( and any others that came with).

 The Hood is pulled  back, a pale skinned   woman looks at them with a sad  smile... glistening fangs show in that smile...Hail and  Well met... you shot the  arrow?

  Well met, Nara...We have   seized  a slaver ship.. there are 4 slavers  who are alive....  they are yours... I ask only that you question them, as to where they  Lave MAster is   stationed...and if they know of the Missing Arrow  Unit.

 ...there will be no....fault to us..for taking them?

 ..they are dead  , anyway. But i must watch my stem, this far away from my stomping grounds.....what ever  information you find.. is more then we have... you need not  be mericful with them.

 ..Cles  and Vira  are here as well... Cles as  another  Arrow  for you...have you any need of thier skills...?

 Her  nose   sniffs a  bit as she licks her  lips,..you have been sorely wounded.. but  are mending...Aye?  she takes  a  step nearer to him,..is there  anything... i..can ..do....

  Kree holds up his sword Pommel, the  holy symbols  of   The Sisters    on it. causing  Mara to step back...

 ..I....I...meant to ill treatment..

 ..I know that.... Now?  if you please.. you can take the scum, now..if you find  information.. you can seek us  out, we are headed to Mok

 The two alchemists  mobe to  Ivy  , to offer him the  replacement arrow.

   Orlin stops shaking when he sees who approaches but must hunker down on one knee to stay upright.  He had pulled his hood up against the chill.  His lips are tightly pressed together.  The staff flikers gently

Lucy had gone with Kree.

It took several minutes to realize who and what the figure were.  She had certainly heard of them.  Hell, everyone feared them.  But she had never met a vampire in person.

She found them .... creepy.

She was glad when they took the slavers.  A slight shiver ran down her spine.  She wouldn't want to be them at all.

She watched Kree, and took her que from him.  When he reached for his pommel, her hand drifted towards hers.

Although, truth be told, she wondered if her blade would do any good against the likes of them.

  Nara's eyes  shift to Ivy, who gives her a  wink.

  She hands  Kree a small metal Case.....This is  Salve that we use... for you?  it  will burn. But it  will  help heal you... it is...from our Clerics..

 ..Thank you  Nara.... Have you any of your people in Mok?

 she  shakes her  head  as  they all walk towards the Slavers...the   Sun is much to Bright...There are...our  kind.. in the sands, but they are shelter in the ruins and Tunnels  under the  shifting sea of sand..it is a good place  for them to hunt... people and animals  vanish, none can tell why.

 Reaching the 3 men and a woman, Kree says,.. Untie thier legs, keep thier  arms  tied...

  Kree crouches  and looks at the fellow from the Hold...these are friends of  mine.. they are going to take yhou to thier place.. and ask  you questions...you will....indeed... regret not talking to us. I have  given you to them, I cannot take a gift back... questions

 The fellow laughed,  until the   men started to grab the  his  mates. lifting them off the ground.. Nara's chilling smile made him freeze.. he looked at Kree,..I thought you served the Light!... these  creatures  are Dark as Midnight...

 ..This  Clan.. is no darker then  I am, nor... do they favor the light...however.. they are much better, then Slavers.

   The staff speaks for all to hear  "Be assured that while they are what they are, they choose a path much lighter than they can easily travel."  It chickles deeply, "The ends justify the means. And their means will see your to demise in a way that will make your people think twice about going into slavery."  Kree feels the gaze of the staff apon him. "A rather nice ends, don't you think?"

   Orlin is struggling to understand what's going on but has drifted into a sleep.  An ark of static electricity from the staff jolts  him awake.

  the  slavers  are drug off , rather easily.. the female  among them shrieking.

  Nara Bows her ehad to Kree and gives  Ivy a sad  smile. Then she walks into the darkness...

  Kree  looked at the  salve and Tucked in into the  slit pocket of his tunic,..Let us go back to the ship.... we shall cast off tomorrow morning....

  word   went around the Market, that the  group of mercs  needed a Crew to take thier 'new ship'  to Mok.

Luthien had met this particular vampire friend of Kree's before...it annoyed him, but so far she appeared to be playing by some kind of rules...and that's what led him to leave her alone here.

  Orlin wakes in the morning, groggy and still a little weak.  If he has the chance, he will get better rested.  His strength will return quickly with rest.

  Kree  did apply the salve  as he settled down for  the night... The  pain caused by the salve, was almost as bad as the  pain caused   from the wound.

  drinking  two  big glasses of wine waiting  fro the pain to go away.. it  didn't , for a good three hours..after  which the elf   fell into a 'sleep' of sorts.


 Ivy  told   the  Arrows  to take  pick a Hammock in the  crew quarters.  He checked on Orlin, then   stopped at Luthien , there was a wry Grin,... You are getting used to Nara?  Aye? That is a good thing. Not all Vampires are Vamps  because they wished to be....but?.. not  all of those...'accidental' Vamps will chose the grey path?

"You keep vouching for her. 'Good' vampires are fairly unheard of ya know. Barring helms of opposite alignment or things like that."

At any rate, while still uncomfortable with it...he's chosen to let her be.

  Kree  nodded  with a grim smile,..I vouch for  her, what she was... and what she has done. Some of her fellows?.. I would not  think twice  but  ending..Even the head of her Clan, is a bit suspect... but realizes  what side of the roll has the jam...

 ...they can also do alot  of thing, we cannot..like get rid of slavers, ebcause i do not trust the  people in charge of the market..there is a good  bet..even as we speak, a runner or rider  his ehaded to Mok, to speak of what they have seen.

The staff chuckles, "And so what would you suggest her to do?  Commit suicide?  She's doing the best she can for a world she loves.  It is rather admirable I think.  Maybe romantic in a human sense of the term.  In the end, most beginning Palidins won't have her dedication to doing the "Right" thing, and few will ever touch her understanding of what is right thrpugh the darkness that has enveloped her."

  Kree nods    as  he Staff speaks.. he looks to Luthian  and Nods as well.

  ...Nara's Fate.. is  related to having been with us.... it was? perhaps, a foolish  chocie.. but at the time..at our ages...and, because of the Loss Ivy and I had both suffered  not long before?.. we made the choice...at first.. we were condemned..to speak the truth? we still are, in some circles... But? Nara has  proved to be a stout allie ... a brave one, considering everything she risks, each time she leaves her nest.

 ..I am far, from a sage... he motions to Luthien,..even more distant, then that of  a Cleric or Holy warrior... but my thoughts  on this matter... these... 'creatures".

 ..Dark Vampires, chose the life, or unlife , as it may be. They sought the power.. for long life.. the magics thjat come with it..knowledge to learn ...forever.... Ones such  as Nara?.. did not chose this  her fate..her  soul, as it were, still 'good'..and no one may ever question her Loyality... others in her  group?.. perhaps   they were made to be footsoldiers... others , i am sure.. wanted the power..or long 'life'.

 He  swigs from his wine bottle, offering it around,..In the  end... they know they cannot cross the lines. For we will surely end them...Nara , would be  the first to tell you this.

  Two of the merchant folks  had been  bringing   the dead that had not been tossed into the water. onto the deck, wrapped in  blankets.

 ..there ya go cap'n   4  bodies, dead as kin be... but if ya  dont' mind Sir? whatcha gonna do with them?... be a bit easier, jsut ta feed the serpants now..eh?

 Kree looked at the Fellow,.. Until  we sell the ship?... i need to  use it to make a bit more coin.... once we get far enough away from the docks here... were  going to do some serpant fishing... he looks at the bodies,..aleats they will be useful in death..since they were not, in life...

 ..Grisly  fate, Sir, and that's not me just sayin'... Cap'n? I was wonderin'.. ya thing  ya could use  an ectar hand on the ship? I kin steer a might, and  good  at sails  and such.. ye  only have one mast an' all.. I think i can be of help?  and.. well..wouldn't might geting  away from the bean counters....

 ..sure... go get your gear.. tell the  Boatswain that joined us , you are  on the list.... we leave in the morning..which is to say... 6 more hours...

 he looks to the 'tent' the slaves are in...will will drop them off  on the  north shore.. and have them amke thier way  to  The Trace woods. The elves there will help sort them out...maybe?.. they will even  settle into a Village there.

  Morning came slowly.. Show  was up  and the   freed slaves  were looking better.. The bite of the cool morning air was  lessened  a bit  by the  jury rigged tend  and   braziers that  heated it..

   Kree had the   freed slave   leave the  ship to clean up and change into new clothing... the children seemed happier , as they  came  back to the  ship, Shadow  told them  what the plan was.

  ..if you have  no homes  to go to... I suggest  settling in the Trace Wood..or? askign to go with the next group that will take you to the Black Timber. We have  a task at hand, elsewise, we would take you ourselves... you may also go to Tou?.. or if you like these lands of the Empire.. go to Val further  down river.. you  could travel in the relative safety  of  the Trace woods  to Trok?...  But   i will say,  you will be welcome in either the Trace wood..or  the Black Timber

 The  women nodded as they buckled on  belts  that held  dirks   or long knives one of the older  Kids  had a sling.. with a pouch full of pellets, from the merchant's guards.

 all the rest settled   down in thier tend, dressed  rather  warmly and tummies  full.

 ..Right then... Cast us off.. its   time  we went hunting...

Orlin stirs as the deck starts to move once again beneath his form.  He rises and looks critically at the staff before summoning the last seals.

  The Ship moves   down the    north side of the river.. when the   merchant site is well out of sight, Kree    gathers  folks   on Deck.

  ..what we are going to do  for... as long as it take s to do it....is catch us  a decent  sized serpent... we are going to use the bodies   of the slavers for  bait.. I want all archers to be  ready.. we  want to get something 6 footlong  or bigger. To take to  sell in Mok.

 He nods to the    ex-slaves,..the nest used  to   grab  people?.. we shall use to grab smaller  serpents.. when the day is done.. we'll be taking the biggest one to Mok.. and we'll eat the smaller ones.  We'll  pack as many as we are able  for the  Freed  folks to take to the trace  woods... you can sell or give them to the  Village you settle in.... every one likes fresh serpent, when they can get it...

 Two sailor s were grinning as the   set up  harpoons  with  thick rope attached.. they flexed  glistening muscles  as they waited for the fishing to start.

 Kree motioned to the crew's  quarters,..Ladies?  if you would take the children to the  quarters    it should eb safer there..

    they tossed the first  body out.. having filled it , the best the could  with air  from the Bellows sued for the cook's  fire.

   at first smallish one began to   Nibble and Pull at it, tearing of  chucks, then  Kree  told the sailors to hoist the next out out..but  not to drop it , until he  made some cuts...then the Body was  Flung out near the other one.. the  thick blood oozing in the water...but enough to  catch a serpent's nose.

   Bigger  ones  started   to appear.. Kree called out....Here is what we want?.. Lok for  3 foot ot bigger.. we want at lest 6  for the peopel to take with them to sell... if we can get some smaller ones. we'll eat well tonight...... I don't think we  can handle anything over  8 foot to take to Mok.. so.. do not kill anything bigger, unless its  self defense

 Ivy went to the Bow.. Kree to the stern telling others to form  up amidships.. The two sailors  had  Harpoons  and waited...

   Orlin takes his place looking for a gaffing hook.  He has not fished on a ships deck but he's pretty good at fishing from the dock on secluded mountain lakes.

Diana joined the "pack", amid ship.

She had notched and drawn her arrow.

Now, like everyone else she waited.  She found herself being caught up in the "excitement" of things.  Still, she waited with the patience of a practiced hunter.

Lucy was amid ship on the portside.

Like the others, she had a notched arrow, looking for signs of serpents.  She found herself being caught up in the "excitement" some of the others were feeling.

She watched the waters with a somewhat keener eye.  Looking for the tell tale sign of Serpent breaking water.

  Orlin looks at the archers readying themselves, "If'n yer just shootin the beast tyin yerself to that tangle of ropes going up the masts might give you a better vantage point so us hands on types aren't in your way and you can put more arrows into the critters without getting them in us."

Lafisual also readies his bow and looks for appropriate quarry.

  ..Throw the third Bait!...

 the  Sailors toss  the third Body  into the water..  More serpents  attack  and now they cans see some bigger  creatures, roiling in the water as the  tear at the bait..and each other..

  ..Crew!  cast yor Nets!... Arrows!!   Fire at the Big ones.. ...

  those with thier bows , fire at the creatures in the water...

  Ivy   Hits  a 3  Footer, and hands the  cord to a  sailor  who begins to pull it in...

 His  second shot is a miss.. he curses  and    pulls the  wet cord  back  in, re-nocking and taking his time... then Fires.. hitting an 8 footer.. he begins  to pull on the   cord,  as soon as the  sailor  gets the 3 footer aboard, he whacks its head with a Hammer , then tries to help Ivy with his 8 footer.

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

 Kree... takes his  time..is a bit  Luckier  as his first arrow   Hits   an 8 footer  near the edges of the  third bait... His  second arrow skims of the water,  and he rapidly pulls the  cord in,, hand  Over  HAnd..

 his third shot with the wet cord, hits  another  8 footer that was about to attack the first.

................
Pull the  Big ones to The Nets!!.. Orlin.. Get the Biggest ones first!
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:35, Wed 27 Dec 2017.

   Orlin ties off and steps over the rail onto the narrow ledge beyond it.  His hooked pole has a rope tied to his belt so it isn't lost.  The hook flashes down into the tumbling bodies to bury it's self in the largest of the creatures.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:08, Mon 25 Dec 2017.

Lafisual manages to tag several larger ones.  As he gets them close he tries  to land them and holds out for help on the ones that he is unable to quite get himself.


16:52, Today: Lafisual rolled 25 using 3d100 with rolls of 12,9,4.

With a practiced eye, Diana took very careful aim and fired her bow at the closest serpent.  Then she began to pull on the rope connected to the arrow.

When she had managed to drag the serpent to the deck, she slit its throat with her dagger.

Then she tries again, missing once, and hitting once more.

Lucy took her time.  She slowed her heart beat, and focused on the shot.

When the serpent rolled to the surface, she fired her arrow, smiled as the arrow hit the beast.

Then she began to wheel the thing to the deck.  she got some help from a nearby sailor.

When the thing got to the deck, the sailor hit it in the head with a huge hammer.

Lucy gave him a nod of thanks.  Then she renotched her arrow and went looking for another serpent.

 with  ate 'big' ones on the Deck, Kree tells the   crew to cast the last body as far astern of the ship as they can.

  Then he calls out,..Bring the Nets in... take  6 of the nicest ones, and  let the rest go...

  as they are doing this  Kree  walks the Dec a bit of a smile on his face, ask the LAdies to give us  a hand dressing the serpents,  and  some one see to cooking up those  we bring in from the nets.. z Tonight we eat like kings

 he  draws his  dirk to help with the cleaning of the  big ones.. half  would be going with the  freed slaves, the other half would be sold at Mok.

Orlin helps in the cleaning.  He seems to have fatigued easily but pushes through it none the less.

Riku kept attentive above the others as they perused.  Brie kept her eyes peeled as the others fished so that she could be ready to retaliate in case they were attacked.

  they serpents that would be given to the  ex slaves to take with them to the Trace  Wood  would keep thier  heads... they ones  the Arrows  would use  for Trade Goods well have there heads  removes  and  tossed over the side  with the rest of  the  cleaning.

  a few smaller ones were taken by the   seaman who had  some cookigjn  skills as he  went  to the aft  and began to prepare the  braziers, he  was able to get one of the women to go help him.

  He took a  sack of flour  from the   goods  , to use  as  well as some spices.

    Kree looked   for Luthien.. he   stood before the Holy warrior  and said,..You will be dealing  with  dockmaster, when  we  reach  Mok...I would not ask you to lie.... so.....

  Writing in the manifest , in a rather  neat elven hand,..I have Added the serpent meat to the manifest... i have subtracted the slaves and some good   i am going to give them.... As of this Moment.. for as long as we have this ship.. you are not the Purser..... I am giving you this  Manifest...now. The elf  hands  Luthien the  ledger.

 .. YOu  are the new Purser of this ship... as  of a Moment ago.... the books have been balenced...BEFORE.. you were made purser. So. In all good  heart5, you may say that... Kree winks  and begins  to walk to the front of the ship.

    Orlin is standing near Luthien.  He looks after Kree, then back at Luthien, then back at Kree "I don't think I'll ever understand how can such an Evil little man be such a good little man?"

.. The after noon was moving on... the  shining speck that was Mok was  a bit away...

   kree   called Back to the  Helmsman,..I want us to skirt Mok..and   find a landing on the north- west shore.. so  these good people  may disembark and   travel to the trace wood...

 the fellow at the Helm shouted back,Aye , Sir.... witht he wind  now?  we should be  past Mok near to midnight..if i recollect ..there is a ferry of sorts  on  down the way towards the Sea.

 ..Alright.. I leave it in your hands then...

 The Helmsman grinned proudly and Saluted   Kree.

 he  walked d own the  deck again, the    pitch and Yaw of the ship did not seem to  bother him.. the smell from the cook, Under the   sterncastle  was that for  roasted Serpent and  the smell of some kind of  cooked  vegetables.  he went  around the   for'csle and stood near the bowsprint watching the water    cleave around them.. his eyes  also searched  , both   shorelines.. the High grasses on either  side  could hold  anything..or?  nothing..

  what did bother  the  elf, was the   slight clouds of  Dust, that came from far away on the  south eastern shore.... the  sands  were alot closer , then one thought... the   the clouds   had to be riders...

Luthien shakes his head at the clever way things were phrased.

Yes, he isn't being asked to lie, per se. Just to...tell the exactly worded truth.

"...This strangely works. It shouldn't, but no lies are technically being told."

Brie had been silent for most of the ride along the river.  She listened and learned as those who were much more experienced than her lead the way.  Sometimes it was easier to just watch and learn than input your own thoughts.  In this case, her thoughts were much simpler and naive considering she had never covered this part of the world.

  the ships  cruised  well through the    late after  noon and  evening.

  The 'cook' had  done a  fine  job with the Serpants and Stores   that were allotted to him... he  even   let the  kids   'break the belly'. a Game  played  with   dried   serpents  Bellies...
The Kids  would   take a Belaying pin and   smack the  dried belly to see what 'goodies' are in side.. most times  was  just a  few  shint pebbles   and such.. but , often one  could  fine    good items   such as Coins , lockets , and such..

 the  Kids   laughed  and  whacked  thier  'gifts'..  a couple were lucky enough to find a  silver..some fould a  couple   coppers... all seemed to have   found something.

 Ivy watched  with a soft smile and  sipped   wine from a wooden Mug....Funny...Good Cook.. who  all of them found something.... every one...

 The Cook  smiles  and winked,..luck o' the Ladies..eh?

 Ivy  noded , his msile grew a bit.....aye..that  must be it...

    Kree watched  fro the stern castle, leaning over the  railing as the  navigator    watched the dark river... the First moon shining  onto the  waters... Captain?... If the winds  remain  fair, we'll be   Even with Mok   a Ring  past Mid of night...

 Kree looked at the watch Candle  it was one ring above  Mid-of Night,..Very good  Helmsmen .. go for another Ring past Mok, then we set  our passengers on thier    journey... Then You will Come  about  and Sail to Mok...

  The  Night  moved on , mostly uneventful. Sounds of  beasties on the shores  and in the water  would  Break the sounds  of the    water  sloshing against the bow and the beat of the  Rigging against the mast.

  Kree   was  smiling a bit  as the    air tossed his ponytail  about.

  ..If ya beg me  pardon , Captain? Ya seem a bit  at 'ome on a ship...

  If  you say so Helmsman.... But i like the feel of the forest Floor.. and even the dark alleys  of the   City..... Though i would be lying, if i said this was not nice.... My cousin and Eye travelled through the Mists a few times... served on an Ironmound  sloop  on the coast.. trying to run down those  fast  Red Halfling Ships?... Its a good  way to Hunt... but.... i do not fancy the bobbing around in the water, should  my vessel sink

 ..me name's   Broth?  ye  sailed through the Mists a few times?... I ain't  never  ventured close ta that wall of clouds....I was One  a merchantman...." The  Blue Wake "..Fast she was..and could haul  lotsa goods... we veered towards the  Mist as the Sun was goin' down..  shut all the lights   and  turned hard back to Laynak?... The Pirates  who lost us, went into the Mists.. we waited.. watched The darker it got.. the worse it  got... Lights  flashin' inside...  Noises   and screams... voices calling out.. and Howls of beasts?  No thankee CAptain... I'll fight the  Red HAlflin's  any day.. then go into that!

 Kree grinned,..I'll tell you a secret. Broth.. those lights you see?.. that's  Lighting from the constant  storms... that are brought  about , by the  places where world  touch,, you sail into those lights... and You come out...somewhere else.... the  hard part?.. making sure you chart that spot, or you don't  find your  way back..... There  are Rocks  as Bih as  the  walls of Ironmound in there.. with  jagged  ones   below.. there are creatures  that  lair there.. waiting for   those  ships that broke up....... sometimes.. folks take  small ships into the  Mist... and  anchor near   the rocks.. then send out  long boats to look for salvage... if you can do that... and the Sisters  smile on you?.. You can make alot of coin... but... there are beasts out there that are worse then serpents.. 9 hells?  they eat serpents...

 ..But the  thing is?  The Mists don't hurt you.. the rocks  and Beasties  do... and many of the ships that  go through to another  ..world?... can't find their way back..or?.. don't want to...

"The mists do reduce visibility, so in a way, they are damaging. Men might better prepare for monster attacks if they can see them coming. With the mists lowering visibility, it's often too late for those on a ship to take precautions by the time the monsters get there. The use of arrows, particularly, is lost in the mist."

Sure, there's some master archers who can get around that, but they're 1/1000, and they're not usually on every ship.

    Broth, The Helmsman was   just about  right in his Timing. As   they   slowly  neat the shoreline, Look  for a Place to  stop a bit further away  from the  trade  road.  Kree had  Ivy  make, and Fire off  two   fire  arrows..

  some 5 Minutes   Later   two more   came  up to the  north east... Ivy Answered  with  One  more... with was answered almost   right after.. by another  one.

    The   men who served as a  crew.. set the  gangplanks  down.. a Loading cart  from the hold was sent down the ramp.. and the  crew loaded the Serpent meat and some other goods  on the cart...

 two of the crew  left  the ship with the ex-slaves.. to serve  as Guards.

   Kree stood at the bottom of the ramp,..I want  you to travel    to  the  Trace  Wood... even  as we speak.. there  are elves and  others whom guard the   trees.. headed out to meet you. he hands  the oldest of the women  one of his arrows...give this to the leader.... Tell him or her, Kreee sent you. Tell them yhou have some goods to trade, and would like to settle in the Trace.... for those who want to move on.. they can get you to the coast... or  to Trok.... Good  travels, and may the Sisters  watch over you.

 the two  crewman nod to Kree  each on grabbing   the handle of the cart and begin to  pull it  through the grasses  until they reach the  road.

  the kids  wave.. Shadow says,we will wait a bit.. make  sure they make the road.... then we   will push off and  sail to Mok...

  The Ship was  sailing back down towards MOK. the Docks  were spread  across the   southern shore.. some rather Big ships were there...

   a one-masted Long  Boat  came towards them in the   dark.. the second Moon was almost half.. adding to the Light.

  ..HAIL..THE SHIP!.. WHAT NAME..WHAT BUSINESS...

 The  fellow called  kree forward Ivy  looked as well.. 12 darkskinned    troopers of  the Mok city guard  sat  in the boat..at the stern  were two robed  figures.. at the Bow, a felw with a  flapping cloak and   bright red silk  flowing from under  a silver Helm.. a point  rose from that hem...

  the  troopers  had similar hems, but  appeared to be  bronze or  steel..it was  hard to tell by the moonlight- torch light.

 ..I am  Captain Kree...Quickshadow...This ship is a priaze.. we have Named her the Floating Arrow.. she is  Mine, but her rights  will go to the  Crimson Arrows, next  Port we  arrive in... right now? we have goods  we wish to sell.., including serpent  meat...

 ..If You do not mind?..  I will board your vessel  with some of My men to have a look at your Manifest..and search for  any  ill-gotten goods?

 ..By all means!.. Come abaord.... we are eager to   dock, sell our goods  and see what the City of Mok , has to offer?

 ..........

  The  Captain came  aboard..Dusky. darkbrown eyes  as  they shifted  to look at the women.. Six guards  came aboard... and  both robed men.. One had a silver Hem, with  no spike..he wore a Grey robe with yellow trim, what appears to be a ...Silver  Ring  hangs from a sliver  chain , around his neck....The other  fellow just wears the   Dark Red Robes of the Sand  Folk.. in his  hand  wis a 3 foot  staff..of  sorts, inlaid  with silver.

 ..I will see...and talk with your  purser? and examine  the Mainfest, as my peole look about the ship?

 ..Of  Course... Sir Luthien is My purser..and he has the  manifest..   Kree waves him over  with a smile... Ivy is having a staring  contest with the SGT in the boat below.. the other   six   troopers have  crossbows  ready

 Ivy has his bow  in his  hand , one  foot on the railing  as he stares at them.

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 286):

Diana came out of the main cabin, watching the soldiers board. Her hand hovered over her sword blade, ready if the need arose.

She covertly moved close to the two men in robes.  They would be her first targets should things go wrong.  She figured they were mages or something like that.

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 286):

Lucy had been sleeping on the deck.  She had been taking a "cat nap", when the soldiers came on board.  She watched both her own crew's reactions and those of the soldiers.

Under her blanket, she slowly drew an arrow, and unslung her bow.  Should things go down, she would be ready.

The knight steps forwards, and goes over the details...everything is in order...because he's giving the truth of exactly what the ship contained at the time he was put in charge of it.

  The   Fellow with the silver Helm, but no spike, but wore the grey robes, simply said,..the Infidel speaks  truth....

  Kree Looked hurt,..You do not  trust a Holy Warrior of the Empire?

  ..I do not  trust...infidels...
......

 the  two troopers   returned  from below decs   another SGT  looked at Kree, as he spoke to  the Captain..My SGT  says the Decks  below  have been cleaned, but there  are   shackle Hooks  for slaves   below...  even with the cleaning , there is  signs of slaves  having been there.

 ..what part of.... Crimson Arrows....do you not understand... Ivy said  with venom, but never took his eyes off the  boat below.

 ..Silence  , GFools.. I am talking to your Captain...

 Kree Bowed his head  slightly.. but his eyes  and voice bore a cold warning,..That  Elf is My  LT..  and should be treated  with the respect, due  any offcier...that is..if you  expect any  respect  from us...

 The CAptain changed the Subject.....if you took  slaves  from this  ship.. they may have been the property of the  Great Sands... did you sell them?

 Ivy snorted,..gods..no  damned  wonder thier most of them are shepherds...

 ..If I may , Good Captain... drawing his attention away from Ivy,.. we do not sell slaves..... we have on ...occassion, given  slavers to  Orcs, Goblins  ect.. as a gift... since i believe in the  balence of the scales....

 The SGT looked visibly  taken aback  by this..the Captain seemed to anger.,,now.. The Carvern Market? It is on  the Empire side of the   river...and there is a place , on either side of the river..where neither law  holds sway... so we took care of  the slaves  there.

  River  Law says we hold sway over  a 5 mile area  from our Docks.... Where  did you free the slaves?

 With out a second  thought, Kree answered,..the slaves  were freed, the moment  we took control of the ship... the slavers  were dealt with....harshly... The  slaves   were able to make thier  own way, after  we  cured  and fed them.

  The Captain Looked at  Luthien,..Is this  true?

"Of course. We've been freeing slaves pretty much everywhere since I joined this unit. The slavers are dealt with...harshly, except for those I find whose spirits aren't completely black. These I give an opportunity for redemption, when I can."

Luthien kinda shrugs, "To be fair, though, only about one man in 40 proves to not be stained entirely black from such things, but it's nice to pick that one man out when I can."

    The Captain looked at the   Fellow in Grey. Again, the fellow gave a  curt nod.

   Turning back to Kree,..so?.. the ..'Great'  Crimson Arrows..just  let  some  slaves  wonder off.. no protection? They may have been better  off with the  Slavers....

  NAY!.... the  word   shot like a bolt.. the   Grey robed  man's  eyes   widened,..no one ..is better of a slave.... we have seen slaves, who have bioned to thier masters  , liked  whipped  curs?...Worse?  we have seen them become ...trustees... and  treat thier  fellow slaves  as animals... I will assure you.. we treat them..as  we treat any slaver.

 The Elf  calmed  down a bit , after seeing the dark grin of Ivy's  face... but  Ivy was nodding looking at the boat below.

 ..The Slaves  were freed at the Carvern's Market..... where they chose to go from there, was ...quite up to them...None of the slavers  or  boat crew  were kept alive...I saw  some  Sand folks ships  at the Docks..they enother aided us..nor aided the slavers...I suppose they knew what the outcome , might bring.

 ...i feel..there should be some form of punishment , for  taking a ship... Pirates  are not   held in high esteem in Mok...

 Kree laughed,..I do not need to ask my friend to see if you are lying... Pirates  are the sand Folks best friends... The fellow with the staff and the grey robed one stiffened.. The   Captains   dark eyes shifted    hard towards the elf.

 ..becarefull...Elf... The  Sand Folk do not take insults likely...

 Then? You best get used to it. YOu cannot  say one thing, then do another.... the  crates in the hold are from.. Black Timber merchants and  Merchants from Tou... Seldom..if ever.. is trade made with Sandfolk who travel the river..so ..I have to believe they got them, the  same place they got  the  slaves....

 ..so?.. you have seen our Books.. checked our goods and asked your questions?... If you do not want us in Mok..let me know, we shall head to the coast..Vall and the Trace wood is on the way?.. I'm sure they will take our Goods.....

 ..Be careful..Captain Quickshadow... there will be people in Mok, who are not as friendly  as me..

 ..For thier sake... I hope not....

 The Captain Nodde3d   , then   waved his  people  over the side. Ivy gave a  finger wave to the SGT in the boat.

 ..Have your  Helmsman slip  at the   eastern most berth...

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 292):

Diana relaxed as the soldiers turned to leave.  He hand relaxed as she watched the grey robed men leave.

Truth be told, she was glad nothing came of it.

In reply to Kree's Unit (msg # 292):

Lucy didn't relax till the last grey robed and soldier had exited the ship.  Then she relaxed, and sheathed the arrow and put her bow away.

She watched till they were out of sight.

A tickle at the nape of Brie's neck raised an air of ill at ease and while she didn't grab for her bow or an arrow, she did brush her finger along the hilt of her dagger ready to draw and defend if necessary.  She gave the men as they strolled along the boat examining their load and discussing with Kree what was to come.

She gave a quick glance over to Kree and Ivy and at a snap of a finger she would react just as quickly making the closest man rethink just who he was messing with.

When Kree and the main guy had completed their conversation and it appeared that they would be able to sell the goods, she did ease up but still remained anxious.

Lafisual gets out his recorder and considers playing but figures he better not push it right at this moment as he shakes his head at all the dick measuring and is glad that it's over.

  The 'Floating Arrow" glides into the Berth..Some dock workers  toss ropes  to  deck ands and Ivy.

  The Ship is being secured, as  Kree looks   up at the 2nd Moon. He Call down to the Nearest Dock worker,..when  do the Markets  Open?.. who do we see to  sell our  Goods?

 The Dock worker  looks  up, bowing a few times , first,..Ahh  Good Sirrah , the MArkeys  do not  Open until the   Sun is fully over the  treetops of the Trace.....there will be merchants who come to you..Sirrah.. to buy your  Good to take into the  City to sell themselves, if you do not wish to  buy at Stall...

  he  walks  up the Gang plank slowly, bowing a few times  as he does, he says in  a soft Voice, while lookign left and right,..I...I would make the suggestion, Sirrah,  That you sell to the Merchants.. the price you will have for the Stall  will cut deeply into your  profits ... The ....Merchants do not like  competition from Outlanders... he bows his ehad a few more times.

  When the  sun passes  the mark... Merchants will send their Buyers to the docks.... I am..Most certain the Captain has  sent  Runners.... There is  another ship, in the middle..a highly prized place to be... they sailed from the Coast... there is ..sometime as many as 10 ships here.. right now there are 4....

  Then He looks around, back towards the   wooden 'road' that leads  from the Dock into the city,..the smaller  Merchants have to fight  for each goods they can buy, to sell... There is a group of the 5 , most wealthy... they will come down before the time..and try to buy all....Most ships   will take thier offer... some ships refuse, and  give  all the Buyers a chance... The Merchant Lords... They are known by the  Golden Disk of the sun, rising from   a black pot..they are....not..good  men...

  Kree opens  the purse on his  hip.. he takes out a  Gold coin and hands it to the man.. then 3 silvers...for your   honest words..and your aid to outlanders.. this gold  coin is yours... you give   each of your men the Silver for  helping is dock.... should you wish to make more Coin, be here when the time comes  for ..ALL.. the Buyers..  if yo help unload, we will pay you again...

 His eyes go wide  at the coins, he bows  and nods his head, as he leaves  calling his men together, Kree adds,..let the  3  other ships know... we will not be selling to Buyers, until all of the groups arrive...  the Dock workers  praise thier  god, or the sun as the man hand out the coins .. they rush off  to  start the rumor.

 Kree turns  and shrugs,we will sell to  all the ..'lesser' merchants first..once we have  emptied the hold..I want the Crew  to  keep watch on the ship...if something bad should happen to us... take the ship..head for the coast.. you can either start your own buisness... or  sail Until  You reach  Mouri.. There is  a Headquarters for Arrows there... you can  sell them the ship..or work  with them...if you wish to   have your  own Company..  Stop at Vall..and register the ship in Broth's Name... If  we should accomplish. what we seek.. and come back... we will see what course  that sends us...

  Captain!... Coming  down the Docks!  Broth was pointing... 4  men in   robes    walked  with  4 guards, in shining  armor..while 4   torchbearers lit the way.

 ..well?.. that was sooner that i expected?

  The  Group stops  at the Bottom of the GAng plank,  the heaviest of the 4 steps forward.. all four of  the  robed folks  have  shiny gold  discs on thier chest.. the Guards  are in  Silver   Chainmail...Whom is the CAptain of this....vessel... he waves a fat, many-ringed , hand  at the ship.

 ..That would be Me...  How May I help you?

 ..we have  Come.. to  buy all your  goods.... we hear you have serpent meat?.. we will pay very well..indeed and...

 ..Sorry?.. the Sun  has not  peaked the trees of the Trace?.... And what is it you people say?...." Deals  that the sun does not see, is  favored only by those of the Dark?"

 The  Merhancts look at each other  and    begin to fuss  and complain to each other,.. the Guards  are stoic... but the  torchbearers  try to hide a smile.

 The lead  man   turns back..there is  distain in his Voice,.. You will not make  as much coin, selling to  everyone, as you would selling to us...

 Kree  bows  slightly, his hood  still covering his face,..that may be so?.. but  all will get a chance to buy  our goods..by doing so?  we will enable , many folks to  be able to buy them in your MArket, rather then just the select few?

 ..that is not...Smart Business..my friend...

 ..do not use the  word..'friend'... lightly. You have not proven yourself to be a friend of mine, or my people..Now? I would suggest that you move on..  there is a good  2 hours before    we may  Deal...

 ..you will regret this, Captain...

 ..there are many things  i regret..this?  Will not  be one of them...

    as the  Merchants  stomp of.. a small lad is running up the docks, and  turns  down the wharf the Floating Arrows rests....permission to Come  aboard?.. I  Hail from the Wave Thrasher..

 ..do not people sleep in this town?... Come  aboard Lad... Broth, get the lad a cup of tea and  a roll!  The Lad  Looked at   Kree  and Nodded  his thanks... he begins to speak, but  Kree makes him wait until the roll and  tea were brought.. there is a bit of honey on the roll.

 The kid bites into the  roll and   warms his hands on the metal Cup as he  drinks some tea... after the lad   finds a seat on a crate, he  says,..My Captain.. Captain Long? He has Heard you will not sell  your goods this  night  to the  Merchant Lords... he and the other Captains  are playing  Serpent Tiles  on our Ship... They  say, if you are not  going to sell.. they will not sell.but they fear that this is a ploy?  so you can get Merchant Lord   coin  for yourself?

 Kree shakes his head,..no Lad? its  is not a Ploy..least, not a ploy to  gain coin.. we will make coin. but we  wil also make certain all the merchants have a fair chance at out goods... I have Lived in Ironmound.. i have  seen Tou and Trok  and Mouri.... none of those  cities allow merchants to eliminate  the smaller... I will not  do that  with out  goods...Go tell Your Captain  these words...If he and the other Captains wish. they may come  aboard for a chat.. but I will not change  my stance on this...

 The lad  had  finished the roll and the tea,..Thank you, Captain for the   snack... the  tea on a cool night   helps alot... I will go tell My Captain... Fair  Winds to you!


 The LAd  scampers  down the ramp..  heading to the 3 Masted ship that sat in the Middle.

 Kree  just leans  on the railings... watching.

Luthien took a moment to scan the 'Merchant Lords' as they showed up...just how dark were these guys, and did they require even further attention then they got?

Brie sat on the edge of the ship near the gang plank and where she would also have a good view of any one coming and going from the ship for shopping.  She steadied herself for any type of rouse or attempt at an attack.

"The guards seem trustworthy, for the most part. The torchbearers read straight up white to me. They have unusually pure souls. The merchant lords you sent away are as dark as advertised. That was well done. Black enough, those Merchant Lords, that I wonder if they've purchased more than goods."

To be THAT black, they've been doing SOMETHING very wrong...

Pause.

"Also, the Captain has it in for you. She was a dark shade of grey till she got to talking to you, then went black."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:03, Sun 21 Jan 2018.

   Kree nods,.. I  do not  know alot of the SAndfolk, save i  would not want to fight them in the sands.... it the grasslands, or trees, or even ship to ship...but  they know, too many tricks  in the sands...

  ..Having  said that?.... There are some good  folk here, just like there are bad folk in the grasslands.... You noticed they came here to greet us  first?.... one should think they were wondering about  the slaves..

 ..As for the Captain, i seem to  rub many folks the wrong  way.. being an Elf  anf  an Arrow, may not  sit  well with the Sandfolk...

 Now, everyone  get rest... Bring up the GAng Plank.... No one boards  with out my  leave....

   Only Halfway up the trees of the Trace, the Sun was barely  warming they  cool morning air... at least, it was Cool on the River.

   Six  people came down the  docks.. Three of them  carried themselves  as  leader.. the other  Three   followed, talking among themselves,  and were well armed.

   Ivy is    sitting on the  railing, his legs  dangle over the side as he calls  down,.. You folks Lost?...  we are the only thin  down this far? I figure if they  could have forced us  further  up river..they would have!..

 He  grinned.

   The tallest of the  people, a Man with a pointed  beard   and Oily hair.. a pair of slim blades on  his  hips.. Puffy , used, but   very clean c Blue  garments made him look a  bit....'fancy'..well?  Hail to you!.. I Am Captain Van Veegerhouss. Of  The All Wind... he  points  to a  slim Blonde  with  chainmail, a  sabre  hangs  from her  hip,..This  is Captain Della.. her ship is The  Breaker.... She raises  an arm to Give a  brief Salut.. Kree  has Made  his  appearance behind  Ivy.

 ..and this short Grumpy Fellow is Capt  Gord  Bronzeblade.. his ship is the Swimming Stone...  The Dwarf  makes a fist and thumps his heavy leather chest piece.. an ax is on one hip, and HAmmer on the other.

  Ivy  jerks   his thumb over his  shoulder at Kree....This  Is  Kree... Captain of  ..what is out name now?

 Kree   smiles slightly,..This ship is a recent  Prize, taken from some...hapless slavers.. it  has been renamed, The Floating Arrow..now?.. How  can we help you?

 Van  pointed to the trees,..its  almost time for the trade day to start?....and?  we heard we were welcome to come for a Visit.. I think the visit will help us all...

 Aye... Come  Aboard then.... We will have a drink on the deck.. the  quarters are..... cramped, at best.

  two crewmen  begin to playout the gangplank...Kree  looks around and says , quietly but sternly.....we have no reason to fear these folk... but no reason to trust them... just yet... set up tables  and  drink.. bring  some biskets  and  Honey.... Luthien.. You can... watch them.. while the rest?  Gather round as a show of force...

 Returning to the  side, to await the Captains.. the First mates saty on the Dock, but  Krre tells the Captains to bring them as well... the three captains looked surprised,  but the   other  three men hurry up the  plank to Join them

  Once  they are there,  crates  and barrels are used for seating.. Kree waits for them all to be seated... once tea, rum or  wine is doled out  and the   folks have started on biskets.. Kree asks,..Now?.. what is the visit  about?

 The  woman looks at  Kree, she says,..You don't  strike me as a proper ship's captain....

  Broth speaks up,..he may not be. Cap'n Della.. what he's a right proper bastard.. an' we'll go with that.

 The  dwarf  chugs  down a mug of  rum, and  refills his cup,..that's good  'nough fer me...

 Veehrhouss smiles as he  sips some tea... adding a bit more honey to it...we are going to... if you allow it.... hold  our  auction here....for all of our ships....The Mok Merchant Lords have a Habit of turning ships against each other... when the  bidding is done.. the lesser merchants come in and have to buy what is left...mostly at larger prices...this is no good  for us..nor the lesser merchants..

 ..Rumor says you have a Nice stock of Serpent  meat?... if that is  true,  you could have paid off  your  crew and bought supplies and still had  Coin left.. but you chased the Lords away....which.. is not a smart thing to do, by the way..

 Kree nods,... I have seen fisherman in Ironmound, make a months  pay with a 3 foot serpent.. i have also seen that serpent go to the rich..i have seen children catch  smaller serpents and sell then to the Inns on  the docks.. or take them home for thier own families.... I... do not like the fact that Coin can get you more then working does...

 ... do you know..the first thing the  Merchant lords  are going to do.. is   balk at buying anything from you....

 ...and? From what i understand..coin  is still coin, regardless of  who hands it to me...I will simply  sell more  to the  ...'lesser' Merchants.. i may  make a little less coin... but those merchants will make more coin...and then be able to use that coin  against the Lords, next time ships come in

 ... you know.. you will make enemies here.. do you not? it was a statement..not a threat.

 Kree waved to his   Unit,..we make  alot of enemies... they do not stay enemies long...

 ..oh?.. How so?

 Ivy   grins,..dead folk are not too much of a threat.

 the three captains looked at each other,well.... if there is truth in those words... this  could  be a turning point for the people of Mok....

 from the  walls    trumpets let out long...wailing blasts... three times....

 The  dwarf sips  from his  Mug,..they will be here.. is  some 20 Minutes....

 Kree raises his   mug of  wine,..then?... here is to the turning point...

"The merchant lords read black as night to my senses. Should they end up put to the sword, neither I nor the gods will mourn them."

Luthien is still keeping an eye on the people gathering here. It is entirely possible one of them is an informant. He'll notice. He always notices.

Diana rose just after sunrise.  She had something to drink.  She had some breakfast, and then chose her place to keep watch.

When the captains and their first mates came on board, she kept a weary eye.

Then the horns blared.  That put her on alert even more.

She took a position where she could clearly see both the docks and keep an eye on the six new arrivals.

  There was a crowd  walking  down  the   arm of thier wharf... some 20 people..   Mok Guards  Kept   bodyguards  and On Lookers  BAck.

   In Front of the   wall of people was a  Halforc who was dressed in  a good   Leather   with a Battle axe  on his  back.. the kid from the night before with him..

 He stopped at the gang Plank,..By yer Leave..Capin?

 Veerghuuss  says,..That's the Captain of the Wave Thrasher.. he is  far on the other side of the cdocks as you are on this side...seems.. they do not like him either...

 ..Aye?... Come  aboard.. bring your lad.. there is   a small breakfast here..  to get us ready for  that  angry  group behind you...

  The Halforc  grins  as he  salutes and steps on the   ship, the other  Captains greet him and he  helps himself to  rum and  biskets.. the kid.. the only kid.. dives into the honey biskets and tea.

 HAIL!... Floating  Arrow.... We needs Talk!

 Kree looks   back at the trees,  there is another good 5 Minutes  before the Sun Clears,..well..not business for at least  five more  Minutes?

  The lead  Merchant Lord  says....I am  Callit Seveth.. Leader of the Merchant Lords.... This woman to my  right is Alona Migg.. the   one who minds the coin of the  Merchant lord's Guild... and this  is Fafar Fate.. he deals in settling debts  for the  Guild.. all of them were dark skinned, oily black hair  and  much..much silver  on.. Fafar was a bit thinner, and   wore   many daggers on  crossbelts on his chest.

 ..Hail and Well met.. You know the other Captains  aboard My ship... you know me...now..what i want to know? What the 9 hells do I care  who you are?

 the three took a step back as  if struck.. the people behind the city guards had a Mix of  gasps, and laughter.

 ..We came here. to Tell all your  captains, that the merchant Lords wil not be buying..ANY..of your Goods...

 Fafer  Sneered at the Captains who  were drinks and  nibbling as they looked  down.

 ..Thank you for that.. now run along so we can deal with ...REAL..merchants, The  people  just looked at each other... the Lords  were dumbfounded.

   Kree  started to walk down the  Ramp.. Ivy Moved to the stern to make sure he had a field of fire...now?  I cannot speak for my new  found friends, behind me... Buy i have spend alot of time in Ironmound.... i have seen Mouri and   other   ports on the lakes....no where.. do people  buy goods   with out fair  trade for all merchants...now?.. if you do not like that.. that is fine...


 Pointing past the Lords to a line of   folks dressed like merchants.. though to  as fancy as the  Lords...You folks?.. we'll show you our Manifests .. you can  make a bid...a fair bid.. and  we  will sell to who wins.. should you be short on coin, I am sure  we can break lots up, so all may have a chance at new goods... and?..  all 5 ships will deal this way..Since the Lords have declared themselves out of the Bidding

 "...will be able to inspect the goods?.."

 ..aye..under watchfull eyes  for the ships  crews.... then.. once you have purchased what you will, your people may pick the goods up, when they are ready, so you can get them  there by , no later the  mid of day?

 The  people  cheered.. the  lowly merchanst   walked  Briskly to the ramp  where the other captains  with thie r   people  held out their Books..

  Luthien  had  The Arrow's  books..

   Callit looked at Kree...you have made a fool of us!

 Kree  sipped from his wine,.. you made fools of yourself... hoping all were as greedy as you.... i mererly showed  the others..that you did?

 The Lords    stomped off, once  again..  The merchants were  bidding like crazy for the serpent meat..  ore  from the  Halforc's ships.. lethers... fruit and tubers.. even  well crafted  spears  and  axes..

   Vanderhouss smiled as he  walked over to Kree, filling the Elf's Mug with   wine, then clinking  Mugs... I do not think we will make more then we normally do here... but.. we will make many people happy... and the sight of the Lords   tucking  and running..is worth , whatever short fall  we have....

 ..ahhh.. see , that's were you are  wrong... If you sell 10 crates of   potatoes for  1 gold each.. is that not  better then sellign  10 crates   for 9?... you deal fair with the lesser merchants.. you will find, that coin  flows  your way. a bit faster..when it is in smaller   drops..  he sips his  wine and adds,..I have never met a poor  merchant in Ironmound...

With Luthien on books, everything is done unusually fairly. This might probably make him a few friends among those who are relieved to see honest dealings for a change. Every measure he uses is perfectly fair. His impressive people skills will go a long way too.

Luthien's sense of honorable men...and those with none...makes sure nobody puts anything past him, either, even if the Knight is hardly all that savvy as a merchant. Indeed, he's the emblem of what happens when you send a Paladin to do a bookkeeper's job...books that actually balance properly.

  there are People  waving hads  with small booklets  as they    look over Manifests  and   give off thier  bids...

 some   of the buyers    take to Kree's  Ship to look at the goods the Crew ( and helpful unit members ) have laid out on the deck.

   others   send  runners to the other ships to have a look at the Goods.. though, truth be told, some of the buyer go for a look themselves ... seemingly thinking this is  'too good to be true'.

  as the  people hustle and Bustle  some  drinks   are Handed out  by  The Floating Arrow, for  parched   throats  and  'sealing bids'.

  Kree  watched  from a bit away.. keeping an eye on the gates to the town, while Ivy watched  from the  stern.

   3 buyers  approached, the  most outgoing one spoke up....I must say.. this  is a Novel way to do business... but i do not understand , why you do not bring your goods into the city?

  Kree smiled   at the HAlf Orc  and Dwarf, who were now  beside him, the other  CAptains   helping thier  pursers  take bids.

 well?... It is  simple minded of me... as far as the merchant mind goes? But we  take bids, as  any other  auction..but.. we are also thinking of the smallest  merchant..and not the  Largest bid.... if we unloaded out goods...carted them into the City..by days end , we would   have to ...all but ...give away some of our goods, or..cart them back down to the ship.... This way?.. if  folks do not want some of out goods..they are on the ship for the enxt port.. that saving of  both time..and loss of coin, is passed on to yoou....and..i hope..you pass that on to  the people who buy from you.... The Merchant Lords have sopught the highest  pirces...for the lowest bids... no one wins  in that.. but the Lords.... Here?.. you are all competeing against  others   who are more in your purse  range..and..when yoou take the goods to market, your customers  wil be the whole of the city, rather then just those who wear the finest silks...

  Gord  speaks up,..well..I like it.... The Lords  pile thier money together..buy what they want..and still  overcharge.. then we 'ave ta take back..or give away, what they dinna  think was worth it...... I'm doin' this  ever' time i come 'ere... and ifin  the Lords  dunna like it.. we'll move on down ta Vall...

Brie stands guard near the entry onto the boat and near Kree in case any one planned to attack.  Her daggers were well in view as people boarded and she wasn't afraid to show them that she was willing to stand up and defend the boat and Kree or the others aboard if the time called for it.

She awaited for more orders if Kree or Ivy beckoned them her way.