The gold ball rolls for just about an hour, south. The morning sun still shines bright as the ball enters the hills just about 10 miles north of Kiev.

As the golden ball rounds the bend, the beautiful sight before you almost takes your breath away. Arrayed in a circle at the top of a hill are a series of upright standing stones some standing upwards to 12 feet tall. A small road winds it's way up to the circle.

The ball rolls on, past another marker stone. You all cross the line of the slight ditch and bank, which for a round enclosure, with in which is a large stone circle, inside this is another ring of standing stones, but they are smaller and made of a blue mineral.

The ball rolls on. Enclosed by the blue stone circle is a horseshoe arrangement of stones open to the northeast.

The ball rolls between the feet of a robed figure that was definitely not just there when you rode up to the stones. It reaches down and snatches up the golden ball..."So you've come to claim the Prince eh?"

The Knight looks on the mysterious figure suspiciously.

"Yes we have. What do you know of him?"

The hooded figure throws back the hood to reveal a tall youth, not more than 13 years of age at most. "You have come far bogatyri, I am Vladimir son of Sviatoslav, your new Knyaz!" He speaks with great authority despite his age.

"You have followed the trail I set for you with the help of Baba Yaga, to draw out my foes. Baba Yaga spoke well of you. I will return with you to Kiev but I am made aware that my greatest foes lie in waiting for me there."

He whistles and from a copse of trees ride out 15 armed boyarinas. He points to them and says... "My aunt Sophia and her guards. It is she who took my body tot eh Baba Yaga where she healed me with the waters of life and death."

Loukas was impressed by the standing stones and as he was experiencing that sensation he realized that he had never actually been to Kiev before. They had come far and it was a strange shock to him to realize that they were so close to the great city of the Rus. Then the robed figure steps forward and then the robed figure reveals himself to be Vladimir and then the new Knyaz (assuming that the old one has died already) reveals the boyarinas and Auntie Sophia.

That the situation is rather different than he expected is a surprise, but the elements of that difference are, well, shocking. Can this be true?

Loukas takes a breath, steps forward and goes to a knee, "I am Loukas Ouranus and greet you in the names of Volos and your father, who sent us forth to find you, your Highness. It is with great pleasure and relief that we find you well. The honor is heightened by the introduction to your Aunt. Greetings, Sophia, your Grace.

"You speak of enemies, and it seems certain that you have them, but understand that we do not know of them. What can you tell us, Vladimir son of Sviatoslav?"

Vladimir steps forward and motions for Loukas to stand..."My greatest enemies are my two brothers, Yaropolk and Oleg. Both are older than me and both resent that my father chose me over them to succeed. They were working with Vikhor and the monk Gregor who thought he slew me. They have been actively searching me out as well, just as you have but without the benefit of the balls."

"Why did I not just send for you instead of using the system of the balls? This was the idea of Baba Yaga, she wanted me to test you, to make sure you were worthy of my service. Sending the ball to Vikhor had been her idea as well. I had not known he was in the plot against me until you and your group dealt with him."

"Now I ask that you escort me to Kiev along with my aunt Sophia and her Boyarina. Surely both Oleg and Yaropolk have the Boyars in an uproar by now. I will need all the protection you can muster. Kiev has been int eh hands of Yaropolk for some time now but my fahters memory should hold the others back for enough time to seize the crown."

Standing, Loukas listens to the High Prince, "Does this mean that your father has died? Sad news, indeed."

Glancing to the party and Miroslav, "Well, my Captain, I must say that this is all much different than I thought... Indeed, as difficult as this is it is a much better situation than it might have been. It seems it is time for us to see Kiev."

Balthazar awakens from his stupor ...

"Vladimir, I must know your feelings on this.  Yaropolk and Oleg are your brothers.  If it comes to it, would you see them killed, or should we do our best to keep them alive and instead perhaps deport them?"

Balthazar whispers to Jean, "Is that the same Oleg who accompanied us earlier?"

In reply to Balthazar the Hedonite (msg #7):

Sir Jean's whispered reply to Balthazar, "I fear that it may be though the name is common enough amongst the Rus."

"Plots ever intertwine, yet this may be where our skills may be at their most useful," says Dyanna to Balthazar.  To the Prince she continues, "We should be able to get you into the city with few problems and unknown to your brothers...if this is a course of action you should choose."

.

Miroslav overhears Balthazar's question to Jean and replies quietly...Nay, Oleg the Varangian, I have known him for years. He is not highborn like the sons of Sviatoslav, a good man but a common one. The name is common enough though."

Vladimir first addresses Loukas..."I am assuming my father is dead. I do not know this for a fact and I dearly hope I am wrong."

He then turns to Balthazar..."My brothers have long plotted both my death and the death of my father. I however am not a murderer but I will tell you that even though I would prefer my brothers not to be harmed, I understand that it is there way to for confrontations and they may well pay for that with their lives someday."

He looks Dyanna up and down with the eyes of a 13 year old..."Yes, if I could get into Kiev unnoticed it would be for the best. My brother Yaropolk holds the city but only loosely. Once in front of the collected Boyars it will be hard for him to deny my fathers wishes."

Jean rides close, leans in, and cuffs the heir apparent of the Rus roughly behind the ear.

"Mind your eyes boy she is worthy of your respect."

Continuing a bit more calmly (and possibly facing the bows of the Boyarinas at this point), "You will be faced with a great many beautiful women as King your Highness. Some of them may even be as dangerous as Dyanna. ALL of them will require that you maintain your discipline and treat them as etiquette demands."

"Ogling does not befit a man of your status."

Jean's movement took Loukas by surprise and when the Frankish warrior struck the High Prince of the Rus it was shocking and infuriating. It had been a long, long time since he had been angered by what he could not help but often consider the man's barbarism, but this was too much. Of course, Sophia's own barbarism might be given voice and the result could mean one less Frank in their party, Volos, give me patience when dealing with aristocrats!

Loukas moved forward as quick as only a brother of Volos could, putting himself between the boy and the Knight's horse, speaking to Jean with a calm that he had never had in their earlier confrontations, "You step out of line, Sir Jean. This is your Knyaz. You dare approach him mounted and from an advantageous position strike? Actual ignobility can not teach perceived ignobility.

"You may feel anger, but your actions were unworthy. A man of honor and wisdom would take this opportunity to dismount and apologize, before whatever message he had hoped to convey is forever lost."

"He is not my King yet and if he cannot show even basic respect for one who risked her life for his he will never be."

"Now stand away mother and let the Prince speak for himself."

Loukas crosses his arms and shrugs, "Your insults only reflect the ignobility of your actions, Jean, and as long as you hold lands in Rus, he will be your Knyaz.

"And, yes, I shall continue to stand here as, I suppose, a mother would, because I will not permit you to strike him again particularly while you remain mounted."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:43, Sun 20 Feb 2011.

A'kos watches the Frank and as the knight backhands the boy he bellows with rich laughter.

"Such is how discipline is handled by my folk, the horselords!  Even the princes among my folk bow to those wiser than they!"

To the young man he grins, "I hope, young Prince, you've learned a sharp lesson this day!  Youth does not excuse ignorance...even if the object of your attention is as lovely as the woman you just mentally undressed!"

Sitting with relaxed posture, he continues, "Leave off, Loukas!  His chivalry demanded redress by one of us, even if for your loyalty to your Lord it could not be you.  Jean merely took matters into his own hands."

Cuivi speaks quietly and wearily but his words are heard by all,"the Frank speaks with anger true but there is much to cause anger here and Jean shows ample grace and restraint given circumstances."
He allows his gaze to turn to Loukas, "Now do not presume to lecture me Monk on my duty here, once I was an owned man but now I am free. I owe no fealty by oath or station to any mortal on this earth, Rus, Slav or Greek. I shall have my say and commit no crime or dishonour in the doing."

He fixes the young Prince with one ice cold eye, "A Prince commands respect and gains men's hearts not by mystical right but by the true expression of his own Princely soul. Deceit, the reckless endangerment of true retainers and willing friends, collaborating with Evil spirits. These are not the actions of a noble heart, those oath sworn to your Father deserve better. I know the line of your family and there is good grace in your blood, show it and I shall aid you in all your good endeavours." 

Loukas ignores A'kos and nods his head when Cuivi steps forward and speaks.

When the old man is done he glances at Dyanna awaiting her response (Vladimir and Sophia are behind him or he would have certainly glanced at them as well). Perhaps all of this was a result of the frustration they all felt at the Baba Yaga's misuse of Yaro, though, it seems that neither the holy man or the holy warrior, or anyone else took seriously that their friend had been misused. Perhaps that a male could be sexually misused was too foreign to their barbarian minds.

Regardless, the Frank's actions had been imperious and inappropriate even if they were vaguely tinged in correctness. He had treated a High Prince as if he were a serf. Baba Yaga had shown her power was not a mere myth... Had Vladimir not been in such a precarious political position and not been begging their aid, he wondered. Given his own republican sentiments (Alas, Pericles!), as anachronistic as they were, Loukas couldn't help but smirk at himself here demanding that one aristocrat treat another aristocrat with appropriate regard. His father would have been amused.

He had taken his own actions and said his piece. Vladimir's words, and perhaps more importantly Sophia's and Dyanna's, would finish this matter. Hopefully soon.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:36, Sun 20 Feb 2011.

The young man stands silent for a moment looking at his feet, clearly unsure of how he should handle this. He looks at his Aunt Sophia but her face show that she is waiting for him and offers no solution.

He looks straight in the Frankish knights eyes...well up into the Frankish knights eyes steels himself and says..."How long would you have lived had you blindsided the King of the Franks?

He then looks at A'kos and says..."Does the Magyar king allow soldiers to smite him?"

He looks at the shaman and says..."If you truly know my family then tell me...would my father have accepted such a blow?"

He steps forward and sets his hand on Loukas's shoulder and looks to Jean once again. "This man speaks well. You have offered me an unjust blow when a word could have sufficed. I may not yet be the ruler of this land but I will be soon enough. I will neither forget or forgive but I will accept your apology."

Jean dismounts calmly, "The answer to all of your questions is the same your Highness."

"None of those worthy men would have offered such offense in the first place to one who had faced such danger in their name."

Removing his helmet the Knight calmly looks into the boy's eyes.

"Act as a boy and you will find that Jean D'Arzillieres will do as he sees fit and that he has no fear of any creature or man that walks the Earth be he King or Efreet or demonspawn. Only before Almighty God will I cower."

"Act as a King and you will find that Jean D'Arzillieres will face any foe in your defense. Go anywhere to uphold your cause. Stand with you 'gainst anything...I would give my life in a moment for a Great King to follow."

"I will not apologize for an action I feel was just but I will offer you something your honored Father did not have."

"Show me that you are worthy of my respect and I will kneel before your throne and give my oath of fealty to you and your house forever."



'And if he can convince me', jean thought to himself. 'The Rus nobles should be a small thing'.

Balthazar completely loses it.  "I have heard enough Jean!  Vladimir did not offend you!  I'm shocked at you!  We've all ogled Dyanna from time to time!  She's hot!  Deal with it.  Vladimir didn't say anything about it.  How about we ask Dyanna if she feels that she was offended first?"  Balthazar turns to Dyanna to let her speak for herself.

Vladimir begins to speak but is cut short by the Hedonite. He does not continue but waits to hear what the woman has to say about whether his roving eyes offended her.

Young Yaro backs away. This is all just too much for him. He was awestruck by the fact that standing before him was the son of Sviatoslav, the greatest ruler the Rus had ever known. Then the Frank cuffs the boy. Yaro quickly put arrow to string but was unsure of where his loyalties were pointing him. He lets the bow lower but keeps his arrow knocked.

he looks between the son of his liege and the Frank who was among those who rescued him.

For her part, Dyanna frowns silently as the men of the group flex their muscles for each others' benefit.  Even the boy has to show his steel, though she is touched by the fact that he looked first toward his Aunt before answering the blow; she noted closely as well her Aunt's wisdom in not standing as his guardian, rather allowing the boy to stand on his own.

When the men finish their speeches she looks at the Prince and asks simply, "If one looked at your sister, or your mother, or your Aunt in the way you looked at me, Highness, what would you have done?"

Turning to the Frank she adds, "Thank you, Sir Jean, for such chivalry.  Though not necessary, it was appreciated."

Turning to Balthazar, "Though such has been the case such stares have not always been welcomed, Sir Mage.  Have I not also been an integral member of this party, my magic and my bow critical to our stand at the gates, my magicks critical to the defeat of the mongrels as they left the town?"

Calling to all, she adds a bit haughtily, "No chattel for any man am I!  If you are worthy of my loyalty, Highness, you shall have it.  But I am a free woman and will not take ill treatment lightly."

"Now, if you're done posing, may we talk about what we're to do when we reach Kiev?"

When Jean dismounts Loukas steps aside.

Vladimir's response to the Frank is impressive. In some of his actions he may obviously be 13 years old, but in others... In others he displays maturity beyond his years. He is certainly the son of his father.

Balthazar's words ring with a certain truth, as surprising as his explosion is, that his accusation of hypocrisy is similar to Loukas's own thinking on this particular matter is not a surprise.

Dyanna's words have the most value here. Loukas considers Vladimir's actions to fall rather short the "ill-treatment" of which she accuses him and finds it troubling that she thanks Jean for his actions, because whatever his intent, to Loukas's mind it was quite wrong and could lead to rather greater problems in the future. If he does something like this in Kiev before the lad has gained the throne it will play right into Yaropolk's hand. If he does something like it after, it will result in a quick death -- the Boyars will not permit such disrespect to be shown to their Knyaz.

Vladimir approaches Dyanna..."Admiring your beauty does not equal ill treatment but that is just my opinion."

He drops down to one knee and says..."I apologize for my behavior. Trapped here in the wilderness for months with only my aunt and her gaggle of old maids (he points to the rather matronly group of warrior women who have been his guard) has caused me to forget my manners. I have heard reports of your deeds and you are truly to be respected."

Without waiting for a response, he stands and walks over to face Sir Jean. Although he is a full head shorter than the Frankish knight he stands tall and proud before him.

Cuivi raises his eyes to the sky father, "these people do not see the herd for the reindeer!" He shakes his head and clearly resolves to follow at least for the while.

In reply to Vladimir (msg #26):

"That was well spoken your Highness." Sir Jean describes a short bow.

"When we have seen you, God willing, to your rightful place as Knyaz, and if you are willing to accept it, you shall have my Oath."

"Until that time you shall have my protection unto Death. I swear it."

"I don't know what's gotten into everybody today.  Alright look, this is gonna be easy." With that said, he steps forward and casts invisibility on Vladimir.  "As long as you take no action that could be construed as an attack, you will remain unseen by all except possibly a wizard."  Then he addresses the group, "Alright, I need some air."  He casts fly and takes off to be alone.

"Well, that is one answer to one dilemma..."

Vladimir nod to Sir Jean and says with a confident smile..."Well enough then!" just before he vanishes from sight.

He looks down at himself or at least that is the sense you all get..."Well this will get me into Kiev without a problem! How long will this last? We are only a few hours from the city."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:04, Mon 21 Feb 2011.

"I know not how long it will last, but since you're small you can ride behind me upon Storm Wind's back without much note," says A'kos, holding his hand down in the direction fo the Prince awaiting his grasp.

Vladimir grabs the offered hand and lets himself be swung up behind the Magyar. "With no mount, they will not suspect anything more than you are returning after a failed mission, good thinking. My Aunt Sophia and her Boyarina's will follow until we reach the country side surrounding Kiev, then they will return here and wait for word from me. We ride now yes?"

Miroslav nods his shaggy head at Vladimir and says..."Aye, we ride!" He looks relieved to say the least. Relieved to have found the Prince and relieved that he did not have to choose allegiances between his liege and his comrades.

"When we near Kiev, I will ride lead. I am well known in the city and will be less likely to be stopped or questioned."

Loukas mounts and falls in with the party. As they ride he wonders, Whatever happens from here can not be more difficult than what has happened up to this point... Can it?

Yes. Yes it may be., he replies to himself and murmers a prayer of forbearance to Volos as they ride on.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:59, Wed 23 Feb 2011.

Conscious of his charge, A'kos rides close behind Miroslav, with Sir Jean flanking him for added protection.  Though it chaffs, he knows he will have to stand back for others should they encounter combat between here and the city...a thought that occurs only after they've started the trek toward Kiev.

Still, it's a private honor to carry the future Rus king atop Storm's Wind.

Jean rides close on the flank of Stormwind.

Keeping his lance in hand his eyes scan the skies and the land for trouble.

<DarkBrown>"Hang on tightly, your Highness,"</DarkBrown> calls A'kos over his shoulders.  "Guards'll not see imprints upon studded leather armor, and the rest of you is masked by the enchantment.  Have a care, however, not to squirm when we get within sight of the guards!"

Balthazar flies back down and takes his place on his horse, but is moody and says nothing to the others.

After a relatively short ride, the walls and onion domes of Kiev can be seen in the distance. With Miroslav in the lead, the way past the guards and into the city is easily navigated and soon, lead by Vladimir's directions you find yourselves at the base of the southern wall of the palace.

A large stable butts up against the wall and Vladimir informs you of a secret passageway into the palace accessible through the stable. He is positive that the Knyaz's chamber can be reached via a series of connected secret passageways that Sviatoslav himself oversaw the construction of.

In reply to Nestor (msg #40):

"Then we should stable our horses then!"

Once they have dealt with their mounts and are preparing to find/enter the secret passage in the stable Loukas pauses and speaks in a low voice, "Your brothers may be aware of your father's construction projects as well, your Hightness..."

Looking around the group he continues, "It seems as if Jaleh and I ought to lead this time. Something tells me that we have the most experience with this sort of work."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:58, Sat 26 Feb 2011.

A'kos helps the lad down before dismounting himself.

"Have a care with this one," he warns the stableboy.  "He's tempermental at best."

When the stableboys rush to their efforts, he says in a low voice to the others, "We must needs move quick before word of this strange appearance should move from the stablehands to others outside the palace.  Of certain will his Highness brothers seek to waylay, or prevent his arrival upon the throne."

After a thoughtful pause he notes, "Perhaps one of our magically inclined folk can cause an enchanted slumber to befall the lads?  One that will leave them no hurt?"

Dyanna responds to A'kos "I'll do better than that." She lays a hand on the stableboys shoulder and takes him for a short walk where she is out of sight with the others. In a moment she and the boy returns, they are both smiling.

"He won't even remember we were here two minutes after we leave but he will continue to care for our mounts as if they were his own and will release them to the strangers. us. Now, shall we move on?""

"Right then...we are off! We need to go directly to the chamber of my father. My brothers would not dare move him unless he is long gone...I do not think he is." He looks at Loukas and nods..."Yes my brothers are aware of these passages, let us hope they think me dead. As far as I know there have been no traps here either but it has been a while with me away...you and Jaleh, please lead us.

Loukas easily finds the hidden passage way behind a false wall. It is dark but not without light. It seems that the passageway had been built to allow some natural light to seep through various cracks.

Jean draws his sword and steps close to Vladimir. Close enough to cover him with his shield and body if necessary.

"They will clear the way Your Highness. If it please you stay close to me as we move to your Father's chamber."

As Jean takes on the role of bodyguard, A'kos crowds behind Loukas and Jaleh, allowing them the space to do their thing, but within easy range to respond quickly should need arise.  His sword is out, and in his firm grip.

Darkness is uncomfortable, but for a Brother of Volos it is not intimidating. (Beside having a light would give guardians a warning of their coming.) So Loukas nods to Jaleh and steps into the barely lighted secret passageway. His weapon drawn, his movements deft and careful.

As the party nears the chamber of the Knyaz, the palace can be heard in an uproar. You can hear shouts..."The Knyaz is dead!, The Knyaz is dead!"

Vladimir rushes to the end of the corridor and pushes open the panel showing the scene of Sviatoslav's resting place.

Sviatoslav lays on a stone slab in the center of the very large room. His crown resting on his chest along with his sword. Vladimir rushes into the room and grabs the crown and places it on his own head and holds his fathers sword in hand.

The Knyaz's court stand in silent witness to both the laying out of Sviatoslav and the return of the once thought dead heir. Yaropolk and Oleg, the brothers of Vladimir, stand in shock when their brother rushes into the room.

THe boyars of the court stand to one side, some old men, some clearly warriors of repute...lengendary warriors such as Ilya of Murom an Alyosha Popovitch can be made out int eh crowd by any who have been living in the realm fr the last year. Behind the two brothers stand their own retainers all cloaked in black.

"I am the chosen heir!" he shouts. As the new Knyaz, I order these two traitors to be taken into custody!" he says ad he points to his two older brothers.

Yaropolk and Oleg both draw their swords. Yaropolk turns to their retainers (15 of them) and shouts..."Kill them all!" Ten of these retainers are lower level boyars who have sided with the two princes, they are more than capable warriors. Cowls are thrown back on the remaining five retainers and it becomes clear that some of these are not even human.

The first stretches to her full height once free from the cloak and nears seven feet tall, a hag with one eye. The second looks like some sort of cross between a man and a crow.(Ilya glowers at this particular retainer). The third drops his cloak to reveal pale almost reptilian skin and a physique even larger than the hag, if not by height then by girth. THe fourth is a beautiful dark haired woman and the last a short very hairy man.

The rest of the boyars (5) in the room including the mighty Ilya step back towards Vladimir and produce weapons of their own.

EDITED
When they entered the hall, Loukas had fallen back and moved gingerly into a position from which he might covertly use his speed to move quickly up the wall, and if he can, across the ceiling above the Sviatoslav's slab...

When the brothers made their move and their strange followers were revealed it occurs to Loukas that however powerful they are, if their masters are brought down the melee might be brought to an end more quickly. Accordingly, Loukas lunges from whatever position he was able to gain at the vile Yaropolk using the clamor and chaos of events to ambush the villain.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:57, Thu 10 Mar 2011.

Sorry, going back over what I wrote I see that i am not clear enough. Ilya, Alyosha and the other three senior boyars are siding with Vladimir against his brothers and their 15 retainers. So the battle is roughly even at 15 a side.

Doh! I'll edit my post.

Sir Jean steps in front of Vladimir and assumes the high hanging guard known as the ox stance.


OOC: Going on defense for the first round Jean will attack anyone who attempts to attack Vlad.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:37, Thu 10 Mar 2011.

The Prince in good hands A'kos grins at Jean and says, "He'll be in good hands then...I go to play."

With a triumphal roar A'kos charges the half crow/half man combination and lashes out two quick strokes with his sword.

16:55, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 10 using 2d4+5. dmg att 2.
16:54, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 15 using 1d20+5. att2.
16:54, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 8 using 1d20+5. att1.

The first stroke goes wide, but the second slashes back toward the monster in a clever manuever, using his momentum to abet the strike.

Young Yaro quickly sets string to bow and looses two arrows in the direction of the hag. They are good quick shots but he is unsure whether they will penetrate the hags tough skin. He remains well back, if he is going to be any use here it will be with his bow.

Fully knowing that the prince was the prime target for the brothers and their henchmen, Dyanna flourishes her hands in the air and chants a few melodic words in an incomprehensible language and quickly points to Vladimir who vanishes from sight.

"Dyanna has cast invis on the prince."

Sorry...been waiting for a few posts, moving ahead. For combats such as this with so many opponents on each side, I despise using the die roller so I will use my own dice. Things just move so much quicker for me this way. Do continue to roll for your character though.

As soon as the orders are given, the allies of the two brothers fall forward towards Vladimir, fortunately he is now invisible but still they attack. They are a mercenary lot and know they will not be paid if they fail.

The hag and the crow man are the first to come forward but are met by Jean and A'kos respectively. The hag is armed with a great axe while the crow man carries a large wicked club, the four clash hard, Jean is able to score two deep slashes on the hag while A'kos scores one hit against the crow. But this is not without price as both of the adversaries are skilled and land as well. Jean taking the worst of the exchange.

Loukas is able to sneak behind the vile Yaropolk and slip his sword up under the ribs. The Prince falls forward off the blade but is able to remain on his feet, it is a bad wound but he stands before Loukas sword in hand. He lashes out with his curved sword and cuts the monk deep on the leg.

Yaro manages to hit Oleg with one of his arrows while Jaleh does the same with one of hers. The younger prince falls back to let his retainers fight for him.

Ilya is swarmed by the boyars but manages to kill one of them while backing the others off. Miroslav hits the dragon man twice with his axe doing grievous damage, the dragon man returns a like blow with his great sword, staggering the Rus. Alyosha and the three other boyars loyal tot he crown are engaged with the boyars loyal to the brothers.

The dark woman who is among the retainers draws a scroll out of her robe and begins to read. THe short hairy man looks at the monk of Volos and mutters a few words but seems unhappy with the lack of result.

The cut hurt and only confirmed Loukas's desire to bring Yaropolk down quickly. Accordingly he tossed his blade, Akribis Alitheia into his left hand and began to rain down empty-handed punches upon the Prince as only a Brother of Veles can.

Enraged by the nasty cut A'kos loses all semblence of composure and swings wildly at his avianoid foe.

'Natural 1'

He misses and, uh, other bad stuff...
This message was last edited by the player at 21:11, Mon 14 Mar 2011.

Sir Jean bared his teeth in a fierce snarl and struck high and low at the hags head and hip. Coffin Nail flashed with a cold blue light as it cleaved air and flesh.

Dyanna whirls about with her hands in the air while still under the relative cover of the secret passage way door, near Jaleh and Yaro. Suddenly behind her stand 7 crossbow equipped boyars who quickly take aim and release their bolts into the main body of the brothers force.

Dyanna casts spectral Force.

Dyanna continues to concentrate on her illusion with great effect as the 7 boyars fire once again causing more damage.

A'kos swings hard at the crow-man but encounters the crows heavy club, the blade gets tuck int he wood of the club but only for a second as the creature rips it free, smashing the Falcon hard in the shoulder. A'kos has retained his weapon though.

The hag is staggered by the blows of the Frankish knight but still returns her own, knocking Jean back and bloodied.

Loukas lets his sword drop in close quarters, relying on his unarmed combatives...a flurry of strikes hit Yaropolk and drive him to his knees, he regains his footing and slashes at the monk who has already moved out of the way. Yaropolk wheezes and coughs.

Yaro and Jaleh concentrate on Prince Oleg. Yaro has no luck but Jaleh manages to hit the prince once in the neck...not a mortal wound but a bad one. He rips the arrow form where it is lodged, spraying blood on those nearby.

Miroslav exchanges blows with the dragon man...both reel back bloodied by the others weapon.

Ilya and the boyars are making headway against those loyal to the brothers.

It is clear to Loukas (and not without a little satisfaction) that despite Yaropolk's attempts, if he presses he will finish the Prince off soon. Should he offer him the chance to surrender? After all, he is royalty. Also, if he does so the battle might be brought to a close sooner and without bloodshed.

Nah. I shall kill him and think of the Basilius as I do so -- cursed power-hungry bastards!

As Yaropolk spits blood Loukas smirks, "Veles is calling you, my Prince, and as his messenger, I send you to him as the murderer of your own father and failed slayer of your own brother. Your ignobillity precedes you!"

Feinting with his fist he spins and begins another flurry of unarmed blows this time leading with the leg Yaropolk wounded.

Disentangling his sword A'kos regains his composure; eyes steel and cold he sets himself for a new flurry of attacks, and the results are devastating to the crow-man:

14:22, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 11 using 2d4+5. dmg 2.
14:22, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 11 using 2d4+5. dmg 1.
14:22, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 16 using 1d20+5. att2.
14:22, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 21 using 1d20+5. att 1.

"Surely from the depths of the Christian hell do you come, and as surely will I send you back with nary a prayer to the four winds for whatever it is you call a soul," spits A'kos, his voice filled with venomous hate.

OOC: 22 points of damage.

Sir Jean pressed the attack. Maybe too much considering the amount of blood and ichor on his hands.

One blow struck true and deep into the Hag while the other...

Drat!  Double drat!  I checked the game a little over a week ago; nothing.  Super busy week at work, and now I get a chance to check again and all this fantastic action is going on and I've missed like 2 rounds already!  Can Balthazar declare actions for those earlier rounds, or must he lose them?  If he can, his actions are:
1. Cast monster summoning I to bring in help.  So that means help is coming in 1-4 rounds.
2. Did the dark-haired women finish reading her scroll?  If not, magic missile her.  Otherwise he'd like to bring a flaming sphere into the fray and start using it like a bowling ball.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:42, Sat 19 Mar 2011.

Loukas falls once again on Prince Yaropolk and within a matter of seconds the Prince is down. if he is still breathing, it is only just. The monks attack was fierce.

Jean and the Hag are still locked in mortal combat, the knight lands a clean cut with coffin nail but his second cut is intercepted by the haft of the hangs axe on her own attack. The weapon of the great hag cracks and breaks with the result of the force, she howls in fury as she watches her weapon head fall to the floor.

Miroslav manages to knock the dragon man back without getting further wounded. Ilya and the boyars are dropping the others with an increasing rate as the illusionary crossbowmen, Yaro and Jaleh all manage to pepper them with projectiles. Eight elven bowmen seemingly crop  up from nowhere an add to the hail of arrows Good result from Balthazars summon monster I

The woman reading the scrolls finds herself on the receiving end of several magic missiles form teh hands of the Hedonite.

Finally, A'kos lands two solid hits against the half man half crow creature...in reply the creature belows..."I am Solovei!" he lets for a blast of air from his pursed lips...a horrific whistle the bruises and rips against your flesh. The attack is sonic and horrifying at the same time. The hag standing before Jean collapses with blood streaming from her eyes, mouth and nose. The dragon man also feels the effects but remains locked in combat with Miroslav, he only spares a glance back at the one who called himself Solovei.

Most everyone standing before Solovei is effected to some degree.

The small hairy man grabs Prince Oleg by the arm and scurries for the door. Just after they reach the safety of the door a trio of pecheneg archers pop into the room to cover their escape.

When Yaropolk falls Loukas feels a great sense of satisfaction and begins to mumble a prayer of thanksgiving to Veles. As he does so he glances around the melee in search of Oleg at which time he hears, "I am Solovei!", and his body is wracked by the Crow-man's terrible whistle.

He quickly recovers himself, but it is difficult -- it is as if he is a pinion hanging from a staff being pecked by hundreds of vicious birds -- he feels pain as he has never felt it before. It is universal this pain. No part of his body seems untouched by it.

At the same time he sees Oleg fleeing, protected by his Half-Orcs. Now, combined with his body's agony his mind does a 'scream' of its own, Damn it! If Oleg escapes, Vladimir will know no safety.

Taking a breath the training he has received from Zmija through the past year kicks in. Yes, he feels great pain of many sorts. Within and without. Yet fear and panic will not lead to a useful solution. Fear and panic will not help his friends, nor will it help his Knyaz. All will end in the Underworld. Some with great song, but those such as these, will hear a tune of a different sort.

Having recovered himself, at least mentally, Loukas moves to help bring the song of Veles to the "Nightingale". Despite his wounds he moves with the speed of a storm. He dashes through the fight in an effort unleash another of his flurries of strikes against the brigand from a flank.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:17, Sat 16 Apr 2011.

A'kos gives no thought to succor.  Stunned by the sonic blast, still he lifts his sword once again to offer challenge to the crow-beast.  His effort is not his best, however:

20:28, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 10 using 2d4+5.
20:28, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 10 using 1d20+5. to hit.
 

"I will see you dead!" he calls as he swings his blade.

Not wanting to be in the area of effect of that sonic blast again, and not wanting the opposing spell-casting lady to get off a spell, Balthazar draws both scimitars and moves up to melee with her.  He puts all 4 points of the defender onto offense, so with his 17 dex it is:

Primary hand: +4 scimitar, no penalty
Off hand: +2 scimitar, -2 penalty, so overall no 'to hit' adjustment

He trusts his summoned elves (8, nice!) to find appropriate targets.  A bummer that it looks like Oleg is getting away, but in a battle this large you can't get 'em all.

Jean holds his place with the intent of protecting the Prince though the task is complicated somewhat by the prince's invisibility.

He asks, "Are you still near your highness?", and strikes at any enemy who comes within range.

A'kos attacks Solovei from the front and Loukas attacks from the flank but the Nightingale Robber (as he is sometimes called) is prepared and wards off the attacks with his arms that a somehow turning into wings...with a great screech he transforms into a large raven and flies from the room, following Oleg and the small hairy man.

The woman scowls, knowing that she has been abandoned but that scowl quickly turns to fear as the Hedonite falls upon her, cutting her deeply, twice through her leather armor. She whirls the short staff she carries at the mage but he easily picks up her attack on his blade.

The dragon man finally falls to Miroslav's axe. The impossibly wide, Rus stands with a foot on the beast and roars in triumph.

From just behind his back, Jean can hear Vladimir whisper  No one dares come near the knight as he stands ready...infact the few remaining boyars drop their weapons and kneel to Ilya and the others.

The three Pechenegs are quickly brought down by the bow shot of the elves but not before allowing Oleg, the hairy man and Solovei to escape.

The woman who was engaged with Balthazar throws down her staff and backs away from the mage.

Dyanna brushes the debris from her and straightens her clothing before she heads to where Vladimir stand invisible. With a flourish and a few choice words, she dispels her own magic cast upon the prince and he stands before you all once again in plain view.

Ignoring the blood soaking his armor, A'kos howls his frustration and swings madly at the fleeing crow-man.

11:26, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 11 using 2d4+5. dmg.
11:25, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 16 using 1d20+5. Final swing.

OOC: just in case he gets a final attack of opp'y.

"By the four winds' mounts I shall hunt you, beast, and take you from this earth!" he cries vehemently.

Loukas is as frustrated as A'Kos to have his blow parried so easily. When the Nightengale attempts to escape he too lunges in a final attempt to return for some of the pain caused by the brigand.

OOC: Figure my speed ought help me here.

Yaro puts arrow to string and gets right up close to the female mage, aiming at her neck. He says, "Now don't you even try to escape!" He does not plan of loosing the arrow unless she does something.

Sir Jean pivots on his heel and salutes Vladimir with his bloody blade.

Thickly accented his voice thunders, "Sviatoslav, Knyaz of the Rus is dead! Long live Vladimir, Knyaz of the Rus!".

The challenge in his words is clear.

Both A'kos and Loukas are too late to get any damage into Solovei before he escapes.

When Jean speaks, Vladimir looks sadly at his fathers body still laid out on it's slab, unaffected by the happenings in the room. For a moment he looks very much like the near child he still is. His father dead, as is his mother. One brother left alive who surely wants to kill him. His only close relative left is the regent, Dobrynya miles away in Khorsun.

He looks up to find the face of Ilya, smiling at him...that was a good sign. Ilya was the best of the boyars and his approval would go a long way.

From outside a strong wind can be heard if not felt a little through the open windows of the palace. A scraping sound of stone on stone can be heard from above. A second or two later standing in the large open window, upon the deep sill stands the Baba Yaga. In her hand she holds two small clay pots. What may pass for a smile is on her face...she glances once at Yaro and for sure it is now a smile.

"Are you here to torment us some more with your wiles, woman, or are you here to help?" asks A'kos through gritted teeth.

In reply to A'kos, the Falcon (msg #80):

Loukas's frustration is palpable as the Nightengale escapes. At the same time his erstwhile strike inspired his badly wounded body to remind him that it may well be for the better. He was taking a breath and re-centering himself when he heard A'Kos's words and turned to notice the Baba Yaga. The was she looked at Yaro was discomfitting, albeit not as much as it likely is for his friend, but he does not speak. Doubtless she would be demanding compensation of some sort from Vldimir, he wondered whether they would need to take steps to protect him from her...

Balthazar is about to say something witty to his captured opponent, when Baba Yaga shows up.  Reflexively, Balthazar switches all of the defender's power to defense and awaits her word.

The hag smiles again when she sees everyone going on the defensive..."No need for all that. I am here as a friend to the young Prince."

She steps down from the window and into the room saying to Vladimir..."It is not yet your time Prince."

She approaches the slab where the Knyaz has been laid. Taking one of the containers she drips a few drops of what looks to be water onto the dead mans lips..."The water of death." she says quietly.

The color of the dead man changes form a gray to a vibrant living color but he does not breath. She takes the second container and lets a few drops fall from it onto Sviatoslav's lips..."The water of life." She looks again at Vladimir and says..."Just as  I did with you."

Sviatoslav takes a deep breath and sits up violently only to fall back on his elbows. His bleary eyes scans the room. He sees his heroes, new and old plus the Baba Yaga and most importantly, his son Vladimir.

"Vladimir! You are alive and here before me of are we all in the land of the dead?"

The young prince bows his head to the hag then rushes to his fathers side..."No father, we are here in Kiev, alive but there is much that you need to know."

He looks ate the others in the room and first says to Ilya...Please, see to the captives now. I will need to talk to my father alone."

To his rescuers..."You have done more than it is possible to thank you for. Please follow Ilya out and he will see that the palace staff takes care of you. Rest, bath and later we shall feast in honor of the Knyaz."

He turns to speak to the Baba Yaga but she is gone. No one saw her leave but she is gone. A second later you can hear the scraping of stone on stone from the roof.

The birdman's escape still rankles A'kos.  Angrily he cleans off his sword upon the cloak of one of the dead, then slams it home into its scabbard.  Frowning in concentration he touches his hand over one of his several wounds; amazingly the flow of blood is staunched, and the wound, though not fully closed, still looks much less severe than before.

After listening to the boy's request, he finds Ilya and says, "I'll need some healing, and a long, hot bath."

Turning he grins lasciviously then and asks, "Are you coming, Jaleh?"

When the Baba Yaga drips the waters upon the Knyaz Loukas stands quietly taking the scene in... It is all so peculiar, so fabulous... So... Rus. He is filled with a sense of pride. He's not sure why exactly, after all what has occurred in the past few months was not only convoluted, but rather perverse in its own way; nevertheless, that Sviatoslav and Vladimir live despite everything that has occurred is not merely a relief. It's just weird.

There is something in this weirdness that he finds invigorating despite his deeply damaged body. After Sir Jean's shouts and when the High Prince speaks he goes to one knee and bows his head in respect to father and son and in a tenor voice begins to sing a peculiar song that a follower of the Rus gods will know is a koan to Veles. Veles the supernatural force of earth, waters and the underworld, who is associated with dragons, cattle, magic, musicians, wealth and trickery...

In a nutshell, everything that has occurred here seems touched by the Bearded God. They defeated a Lord of Elemental Air (Take that Perun!), were challenged by magical creatures and tricks, enabled the Knyaz to be brought back from the underworld by the great witch... Actually, come to think of it from what he can tell (and he hardly knows the whole tale) everything that has occurred seems wrapped in trick after trick after trick... Masterfully and artfully done, he thinks laughing to himself as he sings.

Finishing he stands and bows once more before turning to join his friends. They have earned some relaxation. There is greater pride in his step than there had been before, but despite that there is a marked humility on his face.

If I needed proof, I have received it. Now that I have received it I can not help but sense his eyes upon me. It is time to grow a beard, I think. I better practice the singing too...
This message was last edited by the player at 14:51, Sun 21 Oct 2012.

Sir Jean grinned and spoke quietly with some irony, "Sviatoslav, Knyaz of the Rus is dead! Long live Sviatoslav, Knyaz of the Rus!". There was great relief but none of the challenge that had been in his tone last time he had spoken in a similar way.

"Truly the Almighty works in mysterious ways."

He cleaned Coffin Nail carefully, slapped the wounded Miroslav on the shoulder, and then followed the others from the room.

(Drat, looks like my post from the commuter train yesterday didn't make it.  Oh well.)

You are all ushered to see the large number of clerics and healers already gathered in the palace. The combination of divine and mundane healing has you all feeling much better in just a few hours. A few of you, Miroslav, Jean an A'kos are still a little worse for wear but all the healing that could be expected has been done and there is still some natural wait time before all of it kicks fully in.

A few days pass and finally things are returning to normal in Kiev. But this time there is a renewed sense of hope.

The Knyaz has called you all, in your finest garb,to assemble with him on a hill in the very heights of the city. When you arrive you see hundred of people have already gathered...they all watch the waiting Knyaz with great anticipation. Young Vladimir stands by his fathers side and all the major boyars of Kiev also are in attendance.

Sviatoslav turns to the crowd and raises his arms shouting..."People of the Rus, I yet live! As does my son Vladimir!"

He lowers his hands and continues on n a lower voice..."As a symbol to represent our new beginning, we have erected this temple!"

He gestures and shrounds are removed from six statues on the hill representing a handful of the Rus gods: Khors, Dazhbog, Stribog, Simargl, Moskosh and the largest, Perun. Before each statue is an altar, some already heaped with gifts and sacrifices.

He sees the forming look on Loukas's face and says loudly..."The statue of Veles has been placed in the market, as was suggested by the clerics of Veles."

The Knyaz then turns toward the party..."To the heroes who found Vladimir and saved my life, I give to you the symbol of the Gods of the Rus." The crowd goes crazy as the Knyaz steps forward and begins placing ornate amulets around the necks of the party. These are large circles with a double eagle of solid gold in the center. Jewels encrust the outer circle and the eyes of the eagles. Later you will find out that each of these amulets has a worth of roughly 5000 gp

"These amulets are my own personal crest. Where these when in the land of the Rus and you will be known as favored by the Knyaz. You will want for nothing."

Jean stood, straight as a rod and resplendent in his finest armor and clothing, and proudly received the award from the Knyaz.

"An honor your Majesty."

Stepping back he bowed his head slightly and crossed himself.

Before too much time has passed - so the next day after the battle - Balthazar wished to use locate object to see if he could track down some of the badguys that got away.  He asks Viktor if any of them wear something that would uniquely identify them.  Then Balthazar would use that as the focus of the spell as he flies around the city.

Assuming that does not bear fruit, we can return to the present ceremony.  Balthazar is deeply flattered.  "Thank you, Sviatoslav.  This means a lot to me."  After the ceremony, he uses the amulet to try to get access to all the spellbooks the city has to offer.  Time to acquire some new spells!

After the battle Loukas quickly recovered from his wounds thanks to divine healing and meditation, which he gained by excusing himself from his friends and going to the Temple of Veles. In the days that followed he meditated and consulted with the priests and then explored Kiev. This was his mother's birthplace, and although he no longer has family here that he knows of he still feels a profound sense of homecoming. No doubt that sense of homecoming was heightened by the even more greatly profound sense of calling he has gained from these latest adventures. During his tour of the city he looks for a tailor. Not only because he traveled lightly and his clothing has taken rather a beating in the past several weeks, but he feels as if his outward appearance ought to begin to reflect what is going on inside himself. When they are finally summoned to the Knyaz he appears in black robes of the finest quality wool with gray threads woven into intricate patterns throughout it. There are black leather belts tightening the robe around his upper and lower torso that permit him to move with ease despite the luxuriousness of the cloth. There are patterns woven throughout the robe that seem to change depending upon the light he stands in and his movements. Additionally he has several days growth on his chin that is finally beginning to actually look beard-like.

The ceremony was humbling, though it was a bit embarrassing when Sviatoslav caught his apprehension at Veles's lack amongst the gods at his shrine. Embarrassing, because Loukas has always assumed he was subtler, cooler than that. As if he needs more evidence he isn't... Well, at least I know that the Knyaz is paying attention to me... What would father say?

When the Knyaz places the amulet around his throat, Loukas bows his head, and glances up looking Sviatoslav in the eye, with a wry glint, whispers something  before bowing obeisance again.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:38, Fri 15 Apr 2011.

A'kos shows up in a dark blue gambeson; those among the companions note is as the garment won by Jaleh in the contest of throwing knives vs. axes.

He nods brusquely to the king as he receives his reward and murmurs, "Many thanks."

In all he spends a great deal of time observing events and wondering what next was in store for him.

Dyanna bows her head as the Knyaz places the amulet around her neck. She looks up at him and smiles saying "It is an honor your highness." She then looks at Vladimir and offers a small smile.

Yaro arrives with the others at the ceremony but hangs back. He realizes that he was a newcomer to this venture. He will gladly accept offered rewards but does not have the audacity to approach his Prince and request them.

Sviatoslav motions for Yaro to step forward. He hangs a smaller but still impressive amulet from the youths neck..."For your assistance." he does the same for Ciuvi.

Cuivi hobbles to the Knyaz, his demeanour towards the older ruler is clearly one of guarded respect in contrast to his earlier judgment on the young prince.

No sooner is the amulet around the neck of the old man and courteous thanks given, than the audacious trophy disappears amongst layers of hide and fur. A humble, stooped beggarly old man is all that the world sees.

Once the ceremony of the amulets is complete (please add the amulets to your inventory. The lesser amulets are worth 3000gps) Sviatoslav stands in the center of the statues, near the statue of Perun the great thunder god of the Slavs.

A high level Cleric named Gleb steps forward and says..."Each of these statues have been blessed and offer something beneficial for each of you. I would ask each of you to stand before a statue of your choosing to receive a divine blessing and gift. I understand that some of you may be Christian and this would go against your ways...there will be no insult if you choose not to accept."

The statues (all carved in wood):
Perun - the largest central statue, a large warrior holding an axe and a bow and arrow
Mokosh -  a regal but old woman spinning yarn
Stribog - a warrior whipped by unseen winds
Dazhbog - a warrior on a chariot
Khors - A man whose head looks like the sun
Simargl -  a winged dog
Veles - a wooly old man (located in the market)

Gleb motions to the statues and says..."I would be happy to answer any questions.

Loukas nods when Father Gleb makes his offer and smiles acceptance. He has no questions. Knowing enough about the Rus gods and to whom he feels a certain connection he does not stay around to ask or listen to whatever exchange will occur. Rather, he respectfully bows to the High Priest, and steps away from the group to head into the market.

A'kos studies the statue of Stribog; the sculpture of the warrior embraced in the grip of unseen winds strikes his particular fancy.  He comes forward; once beside it, he crans his neck and looks up to study the beings face.

"The four winds strike at you, yet you remain firm," he murmurs in fascination.

Not religious, nor irreligious either, suddenly he descends to bended knee.  Crossing forearms and resting them there he bows his head in silent supplication and offers thanks.

Dyanna goes before the statue of the spinning woman and hangs her head in respect.

Yaro joins the Magyar in front of the statue of Stribog. Being Rus he knows well that Stribog is a god of the winds, what better god for an archer to select?

Still waiting on a few, no rush, this is the end of this chapter anyway so I will have to do the xp round up and what not. But to get things moving...

Miroslav stands from where he was kneeling before the statue of Perun. He holds his axe in hand and gives a slight smile as he backs away.

Dyanna stands and backs away from the statue of Mokosh. She wears a slight smile and a thin rope is in her hand where there was none before. She coils the rope around her left arm.

There is something different about her, not so much in her look but how she is carrying herself. Perhaps it is from being touched by the divine or maybe something even more.

"I regret I must decline. I thank you for the offer."

Some part of Sir Jean wondered what the gift would have been but his faith decreed that he not kneel before pagan gods.

A'kos rolls his eyes and says to the Frank.

"My sword's been named by such pagan gods," he says.  "Of certain, the voice that named it seemed real enough to me and my faith in the four winds has grown stronger this day!  I wonder, then, that your Christ hasn't come in lieu of such an offer to offer his blessing upon your blade!"

Cuivi stands before the Great central statue, "Taevataat, arrayed for war? Dark times indeed aproach, I will keep faith with you."

Jean smiles almost shamefaced.

"Though perhaps unintended you make a good point my friend. Though I cannot pray to these you worship here still must I offer a prayer of thanks to my God."

Jean moved a short distance away from the statues and knelt. Taking the crucifix from around his neck he held it to his forehead, head bowed, hand resting on Coffin Nail, and offered up a prayer of thanks for the many blessings he had received in his life. He then renewed the vows by which he had lived his entire adult life aloud.

"I will cheerfully render my Noble service.

I will defend anyone given into my charge unto death.

I will dedicate my courage and enterprise in obedience to rule.

I will respect all of my peers and equals and honor all those above my station as they deserve.

I will command obedience and respect from all those beneath and heap scorn on those who are lowly and ignoble.

My military prowess will be exercised in service to my lord.

I will show courtesy to all ladies and courage to all enemies.

War is the flowering of chivalry and Battle is the test of manhood.

Combat is glory and personal glory is to be sought in battle.

Death to all who oppose my cause.

Death before dishonor.

This Oath I make In Gods name...Amen"

Finished he stood, returned the crux to inside his tunic, and sheathed Clou.

As Cuivi stands before the statue of Perun, there is a small rumble of thunder in the distance.

Sviatoslav watches Sir Jean. When the man is finished thanking his god, the knyaz steps forward. He takes from his left hand ring finger a ring of reddish metal. "I respect your devotion to your god sir knight. Please accept this token from me. I know of your infernal enemy, this should help keep back the flames should you meet again." he place the ring in your hand.

Sviatoslav looks at both Jaleh and Balthazar, neither of which has made a move towards any of the statues.

"Thank you your Majesty."

"Hmph," notes A'kos sourly.  "The mage must be flitting about the city like a bluebottle fly over a corpse as per his custom."

Noticing Sviatoslav looking at her whileshe was trying to make up her mind, Jaleh quickly stepped over in front of the regal-looking Mokosh then turned back around to face Sviatoslav again. "Just stand in front or what are we to do?"

As his comrades are having their moments with the Gods, Rus and otherwise, Loukas returns. He has always had a certain confidence, but there is something different now. When he returns he moves not only with greater grace and and smooth alacrity, but more focus. It isn't as if  he appears to be concentrating or anything like that, though. Rather it is that there are no unnecessary movements -- everything goes where everything needs to be and it is as if he does not even unsettle the air as he moves. Other than this it is possible to note a sprig of mistletoe tucked behind his ear, which he probably didn't have before going down to visit the statue of Veles.

There is a wry grin on his face when he enters the square. Glancing around to see where everyone is, with a wink -- yes, a wink -- at A'Kos, "If Balthazar is floating about, may the Gods bless him. I only hope he manages to land where there is no one with a monstrous hand to smash him, as something tells me that we are going to need him in the coming days."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:01, Mon 25 Apr 2011.

Sviatoslav starts to speak to Jaleh but stops when he looks at the statue of Moskosh. He turns away and looks at the approaching monk of Veles.


Jaleh's attention is held by the statue for only a moment and where there was nothing before, a rope is now in her hands.

Jaleh was outright surprised by what happened. Bending to pick up and coil the rope for carrying, Jaleh knelt down briefly to offer a prayer of gratitude to the goddess. She then stood and turned to look at Sviatoslav in case he was still wanting to say something.

Sorry - been busy.  I have a new nephew, but he's in the ICU.

Anyway, Balthazar says, "Well, I'm Christian, but eh, what the heck."  He bows before the statue of Simargl.

The statue of Simargl gives off a faint humming sound as Balthazar kneels down in front of it.

"You just ruined my opinion of you, Hedonite!" chuckles A'kos as he inspects his sword.

"I hear that a lot.  Say, do you think it's a bad idea to pay respect to another statue as well?"

With that comment Loukas laughs, "Well, with that question you have restored my opinion of you, Hedonite! 'More, more, more!', eh? Paying respects to another god would not be looked upon negatively, but expecting something directly out of it as you have just received might be dangerous."

A'kos nods agreement, his grin broad.

"Of certain as well, allow me to escape this chamber before introducing yourself to the next in line for fear of stray thunderbolts from the sky!"

If Balthazar does indeed wish to kneel before another statue he finds that there is no, connection beyond his knees and the ground.

After a huge feast, Sviatoslav gives you leave to return back to your homes in Khorsun. Life is calm in Khorsun, the pechenegs have thankfully not been a factor since their defeat and Dobrynya has been making headway in controlling the city. The Eastern Romans have also not been a factor but many in the city think that it is just a matter of time.

OK this is the official end of the story arc. I will have the new arc started by the middle of next week. If there are loose ends to tie up with this story, then please continue to post on this thread and get them finished up. I will be working on xp rewards over the next few days and doling them out after that.

As stated before, Balthazar wants to try using locate object in conjunction with fly and invisibility to try to see if the badguys that got away are still in the city.  That of course depends upon whether anyone can come up with a unique object held by any one of them.

We also question the captives, such as the lady magic-user.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:08, Mon 25 Apr 2011.

Unfortunately Balthazar come up empty with his search. Even though items of possession were provided, it seems that the villains have left the city and the surrounding area. Perhaps whisked away via magic or so it would seem.

As for the woman...Sviatoslav seems to have some sort of prior history with her and does not allow her to be questioned. She is taken into custody at his order immediately. You learn as the days go by that her name is Marinka. Later after fully healed as you prepare to leave for home you hear rumor that the Knyaz has taken Marinka as a consort.