The sun is rising higher in the eastern sky as the last of the food and drink are laid upon several tables outside the northern barracks of the city of Khorsun. The great north gate looms in the close distance. Dobrynya the Regent of Khorsun has already begun eating and drinking as he sits with Miroslav discussing things other than the defense of the city. THe two men look to be in a heated discussion, not an argument but not a friendly chat over nice cup of mushroom tea either.

Dyanna arrives with the sun. Seeing the Regent and the Captain caught up in a discussion, she heads straight for the food. After filling a trencher she pours herself some watered wine and finds a seat to break her fast.

A'kos arrives with Jaleh.  In light of the growing army outside the gates he comes outfitted for war, in armor and full functional military regalia.

"Food," he says with a grin.  "Good, I've worked up an appetite."

Grinning at the diminutive lady he asks, "Shall I fix you a plate?  Plenty of red meats, potatoes and such...we've a battle to fight!"

"Yes. Please do," Jaleh replied while moving around the table and looking at the food arrayed there. "I'm starved too."

Loukas spent the night in the Temple of Veles. It was good to sleep in the one place he has come to think of as home amongst the extended family that Zmija and the other brothers have come to be. Over supper Zmija give him a review of events since the Heart of Oak last departed and the Order's contribution to the city's defense. There are not many of the brotherhood here, but they make an effective force nevertheless. He takes particular pride in showing off Volsu Blüskú and playing for Zmija.

The next morning after attending services and the first real practice he has had for several months he goes to the Regent bringing Zmija with him, "Come, there is much to discuss and I would have our brothers prominent in the defense of our city."

When they arrive and he greets his fellows of the Heart of Oak and sees Miro and Dobrynya in intense debate he joins them at table accepting as he does so a goblet of mead from a servant, "Ah, it is good to be home, no? Tell us, noble ones, what inspires such disagreement?"

Heinrich arrives from a night sleeping on the Heart of Oak as the sun rises, having checked his equipment (paying special attention to his herbs) and refilled his quivers from the city watch if possible.

As the sun rises he approaches the barracks, like everyone else he heads for the food first, then settles in with the others, waiting to see what plans are put forth.

Zmija walks with Loukas proudly. The admiration for the younger disciple of Veles can clearly be seen int he older mans eyes as the approach the Regent and Miroslav deep in discussion.

The regent of the city smiles broadly at Loukas..."Good Miroslav and I do not see eye to eye about the future of this city. Once this whole mess is over it is my intention t ask to be reassigned by Sviatoslav, back to my home in Novgorod. I will be suggesting that the Knyaz place Miroslav in the position of Regent. He seems to not be interested in this."

"I, for one, understand his hesitation," offered A'kos.  "To be bound behind walls and chained to one's office is as much a prison as the gaol.  Much better to be ahorse, riding the open plain!"

Miroslav nods his head and smiles at A'Kos..."The Falcon understands! Though it is a deck neath my feet rather than a steed under my arse that inspires me...the idea is the same."

Loukas takes a bite of the food he and Zmija have been brought and considers, "A man has to undertake responsibilities my father used to say. I thought he was talking about paying attention to my tutors, but today I have bit deeper understanding..."

He looks unusually shy for a moment as he takes a sip from his cup, "I do not think that today is the day for this conversation, but the day will come when we each must take on a different and greater role than we have today."

Filling up two plates A'kos leads Jaleh to a table away from the others, content to let Miroslav plan and Loukas talk.  For him, some peace before battle is a prize worth embracing...though he does commisserate with Miro's apparent fate.

Balthazar sweeps into the chamber carrying a rope and a gem and announces, "Sorry Dobrynya, you can't have him.  Miroslav's destiny lies with us."

"And our destiny lies with Dobrynya and Khorsun. We seem to be talking in circles...

"You've a rope and a gem, Balthazar. Do you intend to capture the Khan by laying a trap with the stone? Or perhaps you have some other scheme? Come, have yourself a goblet and tell us what you are thinking."

"Yes, if you have a plan, please share it. Miroslav's future can wait till this crisis is over."

Heinrich sits eating, listening to the conversation flowing around him. He enjoys the food provided, a bemused look on his face as he thinks of how life has placed him here.

Dyanna fills a goblet with her own hand and holds it out to the Hedonite.

"Yes, tell us what you intend, good Hedonite!"

"It seems to me that the best way to stop an army is to confuse its orders.  I intend to possess the Khan, or if not him, one of his chief lieutenants, and sow chaos.  But we need some information first about him; Dyanna do you have the Mirror?"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:53, Wed 13 June 2012.

"I agree that we need to use Dyanna's mirror before we do anything, but we need to do more than stop the army that isn't moving and camped around our walls. We need to destroy its ability to fight. This seems like an interesting trick, my friend, but I am uncertain whether it would have the effects we need. I thought we were going to kill the Khan and lop off the army's head?"

"Lop off its head, it grows another...like the many headed snake of Dyanna's folktales," the Falcon replies.  "This plan of the enchanter's, it sows confusion...a more useful tool in this case when combined with carefully planned strikes made in unison with his deceits.  Well thought, friend Balthazar, indeed!"

"The mirror, of course i will have to go fetch it. Give me a few minutes. I have it stored in our lab here near the barracks."

Dyanna leaves her plate and drink and quickly heads for the lab, returning in just a few minutes with the large mirror in hand.

Setting it down she says,

"Ok, now what?"

Heinrich nods to Dyanna, looks at the others and says, "We are looking for the leader of our enemies right?  To see if there are any weaknesses to exploit and use to eliminate them?"

"If I understand correctly I believe we're looking to identify him so that we can exploit him in some way," replied A'kos.  "The mage has the particulars, of which the less I know, the better."

Loukas nods in agreement with A'kos, "Yes. If we can eliminate him we hope that his army will disintegrate or at least give us the opportunity to counter-attack and send them into sufficient disarray that they'll leave."

Zmija shakes his head slightly..."I believe the idea is to possess the Khan and make him do our bidding as long as possible. Poor command choices should do more for our cause than defanging the snake, so to speak." says the hatchet featured Monk of Veles.

Heinrich grins, and says, "Possession? In addition to disruptive commands, is there anything we could make him due to diminish his authority? Cultural taboos and such?"

"The point is not to diminish his authority...the point is to make him give commands that will not be questioned that actually expose large portions of his troops."

As Dyanna sets up her mirror and begins to concentrate on the idea of the Khan she says,

"Even just making him delay his attack until the Knyaz arrives with help could be accomplished by making the Khan stay in council with his advisors too long. Sometimes subtlety can go a long way."

Slowly the image of Kurya Khan comes into view, framed by gilt. He is a strong dark man wearing a small crown. Surrounding him are several shamans and a strong guard of 20 select troops. He sits on a pile of furs in his yurt. A small brazier burns before him as one who looks ot be head shaman meditates before it.

Kurya looks to be waiting on this man to tell him something.

"It appears as if they are doing their own scrying..."

"There are two ways I can go about this.  One is to have my soul hop into the gem right now.  On the plus side, that's good because my body will be safe here.  On the bad side, that puts a lot of distance between myself and my body.  The other option is to get into the extradimensional space of a rope trick, then jump into the gem and start possessing.  Which I choose will depend upon what plan we come up with."

"Now, as for how this will work, once I am in the gem, I can sense other life sources and jump into those bodies, but I can't tell who's who very well.  Presumably the Khan will have the strongest life force.  I may try jumping into some of the shaman bodies first - they won't tolerate my presence for long - have them commit suicide right away, then jump into the Khan and have him declare that this is clearly a bad omen.  I certainly don't want to get stuck in anybody's body, and I need to have control to jump back to the gem."

"So, maybe the best approach is just for someone invisible like Jaleh or Loukas to go through the Mirror carrying the gem, allow me to sow dissension for a bit, then the rest of you can jump through and finish them all off while the gem-bearer comes back through the mirror and I return to my body.  But I'm up for whatever ideas you have.  The key thing to remember is that the smarter/wiser a person is, the less a chance I have to possess them, and at that possess them for long."

"Can you speak their language?" asks A'kos, suddenly, curious and a bit confused by the whole thing.

OOC: Balthazar speaks Greek (common), Latin, Arabic, Persian, Slavic, Turkic, Magyar, and Hebrew.  Is it one of those?

Zmija answers for Balthazar..."Balthazar and I have had a few conversations in the Turkic language of the Pechenegs in months past. It is always good to keep your language skills polished, especially when dealing with your enemy neighbors."

He looks at Balthazar and says..."You must tread carefully here. Kurya Khan is a wise and cautious man. The magic of his shaman is not weak, it is very different but still strong. Kurya Khan is every bit an Emperor as John is...his guards will not be the only thing that protect him. Tread carefully."

Loukas nods at Zimja's warning, "Quite so. His Shaman is either doing something like what we're doing now or invoking some sort of protection, I'd bet. Can you or Dyanna detect what sort of magickal activity is going on there?

"That said, I would not miss the opportunity to assist here. I'm willing to take you in, Balthazar, but as A'kos said earlier we need a plan. There does not seem to be much point in taking you over there to take over the Khan's body if our goal is to simply jump through and kill him. We could do that now without the body-stealing, couldn't we?"

Just killing the khan outright would not be an easy task. Remember the heroes that guard our own Prince Sviatoslav. While none of the Pechenegs can match the great Illya Murometz, they will come close. His hand picked guards are the finest the Pechenegs have to offer."

"A worthy challenge," rumbled A'kos.  "Ever the Khan pushes west - if we do not stop him here than my folk will soon suffer his predations...if they don't first succumb to civilization, that is!  Truth told, I would give them that choice of their own will...not have it forced upon them by a conqueror."

"If we were to use this opportunity to have Balthazar take of his body, then we've a short time to give orders in his voice that will permit us useful advantage. And this will have to be carefully done, because once Balthazar has done so the Khan will be able to give counter orders, won't he? Or mightn't his officers hear things that seem against whatever strategy he's already announced or orders he's already given?

"In other words, either way we shall have a very short time to act and if our actions are not profound they shall be easily shrugged off.... Is there any way for us to hear what is being said there? If we had some idea of their plans to begin with it would make it much easier to come up with a counter-plan and give Balthazar a definite idea of what commands the Khan could give that would enable our forces to have the greatest effect."

Miroslav leans forward..."Some of you are relatively new to this area. For those who have lived alongside the Pechenegs, it is known that the death of a khan calls all his subchiefs to the Khan's capital. There they vote on a new Khan. Now I ask...if we kill Kurya, will this end the attack and send all the chiefs back to his capital to vote or will they continue? In the past it has stopped battles but who can say if it will this time?"

"If we hold out for a battle then there will be great loss of life regardless of the outcome. If we kill Kurya outright we have a chance that the Pecheneg will retreat or perhaps just replace him with one of his generals here int eh field until a vote can be taken. That general could then be possessed by Balthazar if need be. Chances are it would be one of the Khan's sons who may be capable but not as wise and battle strong as his father Kurya who is still a relatively young man."

"To be honest, " Balthazar states with some hesitation, "I do not know if the spell will work through Dyanna's Mirror, but if it can, I can sow dissension before the rest of you burst through and finish them all off.  So without any further ado, let me give it a try."

Balthazar hands the gem to Loukas and says, "Protect this well."  He casts invisibility on both Loukas and Jaleh.  Then he casts rope trick in a corner of the room.  Balthazar climbs up the rope, and before disappearing into the extradimensional space he created, he says, "This is for just in case you guys get overrun and some of our foes run back through the Mirror's portal into this chamber.  Now, Loukas go and stand in front of the Mirror, and no one else move for a few minutes.  If nothing happens beyond that time, assume I either can't detect any souls not in this room, or I was unsuccessful making any body jumps.  Either way, try entering alone and stay invisible.  If nothing still happens, I'm probably not having any luck.  Come back through the Mirror, I'll return to my body and end the spell, and we can all go assault them together."  As Loukas does so, Balthazar carefully memorizes everyone's position in the room.

Balthazar climbs into the extra-dimensional space.  He hauls the rope up and piles the coils neatly beside the entrance.  Now none can see him or the rope.  He lies down, as if to rest, and casts magic jar.  His soul leaves his body and enters the gem.

Now, oh great DM, what life forces can he detect?  Just the ones in the room, or also those through the Mirror?
This message was last edited by the player at 14:41, Sun 08 July 2012.

A'kos is troubled.  He likes the strange magi, and wonders if this strange enchantment is too great a chance to play - losing one's life is nobly done...losing one's soul would be a terrible sacrifice indeeds.

His thoughts fly to the Four Winds and his mouth moves silently as he asks them to aid in Balthazar's endeavor.

Heinrich quickly checks his bow, and looking rather confused, asks, "Are we going through the mirror after the Khan now?"

When the Hedonite hands him the gem he takes it carefully and without much of a thought undoes the thick belt around his waste and opens his robes revealing a lean, well-muscled, yet supple body. He dips his hand into the his underclothes and withdraws a small pouch, which he opens and drops the gem into. He does so quite unashamedly and with a grin and a wink replies to the Hedonite, "It will be near the only other jewels that mean anything to me, my friend."

Loukas has his Gisli at hand so that he could invoke the Invisibility it grant upon himself, but when Balthazar cast the spell on him he accepts it. Perhaps it is better to have an Invisibility in reserve? Yes. Quite.

When the wizard disappears Loukas takes a deep breathe and says in a low voice, "Let's go have some fun, Jaleh," as he steps through the mirror into the Khan's yurt.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:33, Tue 17 July 2012.

"That was odd," remarks A'kos.

"The Four Winds guide thee, luv," he says to Jaleh, then he too makes ready to jump through the portal should it be necessary...

Both Jaleh and Loukas vanish from sight as the Hedonite also climbs his rope to nowhere. Through the mirror, whatever strange rite performed by the shaman continues on.

Dobrynya looks visibly nervous. Clearly he is not used to using such magic to resolve battles and such.

"Dyanna, if aught goes awry can I get through the mirror to assist?"

"Most certainly! As far as I can tell there is no limit to how many can go through. Mind you, once the door is open, they can come through to us as well."

She furrows her brow for a moment and says, "I will have to discuss this idea with Balthazar after this ordeal. Perhaps there is a way to make it so only those who hold a certain amulet or key could pass?" her last words trail off as if she was speaking outloud to herself.

Once through the mirror Loukas stands, carefully. He's moving silently regardless of his invisibility and doing so minimally. He moves carefully to a likely position (he doesn't want to bump Jaleh) and waits.

Time for my first body jump.  I'll start with someone next to the chanting shaman, remembering his position from my visual scan.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:28, Fri 20 July 2012.

Both Loukas and Jaleh move through the mirror without any problems. For a brief moment, one of the shamans look up as if he sensed something but went back to his chanting.

Balthazar makes his first jump or maybe not. Nothing seems to change in the room.

Since we are on RPOL with all its fancy mechanisms, I'll stick to private text since you wouldn't know what Balthazar is doing.

Without any warning, a burly Pecheneg with a shaved head draws a curved sword from his scabbard and chops into the neck of the chanting shaman. He then follows with a backhanded cut dropping the shaman in a heap of blood an gore to the floor of the yurt.

All present jump back and half the guards surround the khan while the other half make short work of the shaved headed assassin. Several of the other shaman's begin casting spells.

Coming somewhat late to the party, Oleg arrives with an unfamiliar face accompanying him. As usual Oleg is armed with his sword length seax wearing a mail shirt and an iron cap. He looks to Miroslav and says...My apologies for being late, I had a few things to do to settle the Heart of Oak into port."

He nods his head toward the newcomer and says..."This is Falki. I have crewed with him on may occasions. I suggest he take over as pilot on the Heart of Oak if you still intend for me to captain the vessel."

Miroslav readies himself to go through the portal if need be as he nods to Oleg and the newcomer..."A bad time for introductions but well met Falki. I trust Oleg's judgement in this matter."

His eyes rest on Falki's spear and he says..."I trust you know how to use that?"

In reply to Nestor (msg # 52):

Since I'm invisible I'll describe my actions in PM until I'm visible.

A'kos is bristling, then an idea comes to him and he smiles.  Reaching into his pack he pulls out a small figurine and mutters an inaudible word.  Suddenly the figurine dissolves into black smoke and is replaced by a massive and fiery maned lion.

"Hoy, Leo," he grins, running his hand through the animal's mane.  Leo stares forward into the mirror with...interest.

"Now I am ready!"

Dyanna stands near the side of the mirror. She nods a brief greeting and flashes an attractive smile at the newcomer before her attention is directed back through the glass of the mirror. It is clear she has no intention on going through the portal unless it is absolutely necessary.

As the shaved headed assassin dies, his last dying words are "Cthulhu wagh'nagl fhtagn..."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:22, Sun 22 July 2012.

Heinrich whispers quietly to Dyanna, "Will my arrows go through the mirror?"

Replying in a quiet voice Dyanna says,
"Once the portal is activated it acts just like any door. So Yes, you can shoot an arrow through it."

The Khan's shaman is indeed powerful. As his voice reaches a crescendo, the air becomes electric and the magic of Balthazar is dispelled. The Hedonite is snapped back into his own body...which is fortunate since Loukas in an attempt to remove himself from the range of the spell has moved far away as quickly as his monkish skills can take him. If Balthazar had attempted to go back into the gem, he would have been killed.

As it stand, Loukas was far enough out of range that the invisibility spell placed on him was not dispelled.

Jaleh was not so lucky but even though now visible, she has managed to escape notice. She hides in the folds of a tapestry depicting a hunting scene.

The khan stands guarded by 15 stout soldiers while a lone soldier stares through the portal at those watching the scene from inside the city.

The lone soldier adjusts his sack strap with a raised eyebrow, studying the scene with purpose. "This city......" he grins, as he mutters to himself ".....never disappoints."

Moving this post to the right thread:



Balthazar wakes up back in his rope trick area, surprised to be back so soon, and gets up, lets the rope down, and climbs back down to rejoin the others.

Oleg the Varangian, prods Falki in the back with the hilt of his long seax and says..."We'll get to see what you are made of friend!"

The tall blond warrior follows the Magyar and his lion through the portal urging Falki to follow.

The relief Loukas feels when he realizes that he escaped the Shaman's spell is palpable, which is again proof of how important the Mage's Invisibility spell is. And that's even before he realizes that he saved Balthazar while doing so. Bloody hell!, he thinks as he begins to move back to the Mirror to take the Magic User back to Khorsun.

Miroslav follows A'Kos through the mirror, axe in hand. His plan is to hold the portal while the falcon retrieves Jaleh.
Taking a wide stance before the other side of the portal, the big Rus wheels his axe over head challenging the Pechenegs to come near yet leaving enough space behind him for others to follow through.

Dyanna does not go through the mirror. Instead she trains her bow on the portal just in case any other Pechenegs plan to go through.

Once the line of sight is clear, seeing the others charge through, he readies his bow, firing if he has a shot at the shaman.

OOC: Not sure about line of sight here.

Just to jump ahead to my next round's action in case I get busy with work again, Balthazar (staying on the other side of the Mirror) will cast slow on the Khan and 8 of the toughest looking guards.  no save :)

PM

"To attack is to retreat, and to retreat is to attack," shouts A'kos at the top of his voice.  "Little flowers should choose the former, first, the latter second!"

He really hopes Jaleh understands his riddle.

Falki looks hurriedly from side to side.  A look of excitement on his face "I should have kept to raiding!", As he dives through

A'Kos and Leo gain the shaman before anyone even knows there are intruders. Both wound the holy man deeply. He drops to the floor when two of Heinrich's arrows score, taking the shaman out of the fight.

Miroslav finds both Oleg and Falki the newcomer by his side as the Pecheneg guards take a simple formation before them...but there seems to be something wrong with half the guards and the Khan himself. They move in almost slow motion. However 8 guards now stand between the party and the Khan.

Jaleh remains well hidden in the folds of the hanging tapestry. Any movement on her part will be seen by the 8 unslowed guards.

A'Kos and Leo flank the slowed guards to the left.

Loukas is still invisible.

Sounds can be heard outside the gigantic yurt as an alarm of some sort has been sounded.

PM

A'kos cleaves into the left flank mercilessly, attacking the nearest man with typical Magyar efficiency next to Leo:

10:52, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 9 using 1d10 with rolls of 9. dmg  -  natty 20!
10:52, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 20 using 1d20 with rolls of 20. bite.
10:52, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 2 using 2d4 with rolls of 1,1. dmg claw, claw.
10:51, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 37 using 2d20+5 with rolls of 19,13. claw, claw.
10:51, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 11 using 1d8+5. dmg 2.
10:51, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 12 using 1d8+5. dmg 1.
10:51, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 19 using 1d20+5. att 2.
10:51, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 20 using 1d20+5. att1.

Nestor: that looks like A'kos hit 2x for 23 points damage, and Leo hit at least 1 claw for 1 point (13 to hit for antoher 1 point), plus a Natty 20 for 9 points + whatever critical bonuses he receives for teh natty 20 (if any).

Nestor - so do I get another set of attacks on the slowed guards?

Heinrich asks Dyanna, "What now? Do we kill the Khan?"

He doesn't slow with his bow however, targeting the unslowed guards that are under attack by the party, being sure to hit any looking to come through the mirror immediately.

Dyanna shrugs her narrow shoulders,

"I am not sure but at this point we might as well try. Our plan has gone to pot and we need to do something before the Khan's tent is over run with guards."

She steps up to the mirror and lets loose two of her own arrows at the Khan.

00:48, Today: Dyanna. rolled 8 using 1d20.
00:47, Today: Dyanna. rolled 2 using 1d20.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 19:33, Sun 05 Aug 2012.

"Yeah, " Balthazar shrugs, "I tried to sell them on the guardsman being a crazy cultist, and their first reaction was to cast dispel magic.  But yeah, we take out the Khan."  He points his hand at the Khan and fires 5 magic missiles.

12:30, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 13 using 5d4+5. magic missile damage.

This is one of the freebie shots he gets from the Book.  10% chance that the page turns.

12:32, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 84 using 1d100. 10% chance of page turning.

Nope.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:34, Sun 05 Aug 2012.

Nestor - so do I get another set of attacks on the slowed guards?
</quote>

As long as you are attacking the slowed guards, you will get double the attacks.

Heinrich nods, and shifts his bow onto the Khan.

OOC:Not sure where we are at, so will leave whether the arrows go after the guards or the Khan to the GM. I need to look back up the specialization bonus, so left off that and the bow enhancement.

22:49, Today: Heinrich rolled 12 using 1d20. shooting arrows.
22:48, Today: Heinrich rolled 11 using 1d20. shooting arrows.

Nestor:

Nestor - so do I get another set of attacks on the slowed guards?

As long as you are attacking the slowed guards, you will get double the attacks.
</quote>

Then I'll take you up on that - though Leo isn't quite as successful as his previous attack:

12:44, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 5 using 1d20 with rolls of 5. bite.
12:44, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 3 using 1d4 with rolls of 3. dmg (maybe?) claw 2.
12:44, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 14 using 2d20 with rolls of 3,11. claw/claw.
12:43, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 8 using 1d8+5. dmg2.
12:43, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 12 using 1d8+5. dmg1.
12:43, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 17 using 1d20+5. att2.
12:43, Today: A'kos, the Falcon rolled 16 using 1d20+5. att1.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:52, Mon 06 Aug 2012.

Balthazar's magic missiles wrack the body of the slowed Khan as both A'Kos and Leo attack the flank of the slowed guards. The Magyar kills one of the hardened bodyguards and Leo nearly does as well.

Both Dyanna and Heinrich loose arrows through the portal, each score one hit on the non slowed guards who engaged with Miroslav, Oleg and the newcomer, Falki.

Miroslav severely wounds one of the guards and the man reels back only to be followed by the spear of Falki...the Varangian thrusts deep into the neck of the wounded Pechenneg and he falls to the floor.

All the while this has been going on, Jaleh has been waiting for her chance, and this was it. The dusky woman slips out of her hiding spot with her venomed dagger in hand. She takes advantage of both the slowed state of the khan and the fact that he has just been hit by the Hedonites missiles and slips the blade into the left armpit of the Khan, avoiding the armor altogether.

The khan staggers and drop to his knees, foam beginning to form on his lips as Jaleh slips back into her tapestry unseen.

One of the non slowed guard suddenly drops to the ground his neck wry from some invisible threat.

Oleg, Falki and Miroslav all take some damage from the elite guardsmen the face, Miroslav getting the worst of it. Falki takes the point of a scimitar to his thigh, a rather deep wound.

Two of the guards who are not slowed turn on A'Kos and Leo, both seem to focus their attention on the Magyar. Their curved blades cut and stab at A'Kos leaving him bloody but standing.



Situation:
Khan is dying from poison.
7 slowed guards, 6 nonslowed.

When Miroslav sees the condition of the Khan, he whirls his axe overhead to clear the area and bellows..."Back through the mirror! I will hold these bastards while we return...Now!"

Balthazar evokes a stinking cloud into existence over as many of the elite and non-slowed guards that he can to help his friends retreat.  If the stinking cloud can cover the Khan too so that help can't arrive and cast neutralize poison, so much the better.

PM
This message was last edited by the player at 21:05, Wed 15 Aug 2012.

"Leo, come!" shouts A'kos who reels a bit from the double attacks of the mongrel guardsmen.  Quickly he retreats through the mirror, calling as well, "Come, little one...your work is done here now!"

Dyanna quickly stows her bow and readies herself to say the command word to halt the magic of the mirror once her friends are back through.

Jaleh follows A'Kos and Leo through the mirror just as Balthazar's stinking cloud spell begins to cover the area around the Khan and the guards.

Loukas, still invisible also makes his way through.

Oleg grabs Falki by the arm and the two Varangian's make their way back through the mirror.

Miroslav is the last through and just a moment later the mirror is deactivated and is once again solid, reflecting only what is before it.

Last thing that can be seen before the mirror closes is the Khan falling on his face. He does not look like he is going to survive this.

A'kos, who is still bleeding heavily, says, "We needs find out whether the Khan survives or not."

He then turns away from the others briefly, stoops to pick up his lion.

"Yes, this has all been for naught if he survives. Jaleh, what do you think? You were the one to bring him down with that brilliant, awful strike. How much time do they have to save their Khan?

"This might be the right time for a counterstrike..."

"Exactly my thought" says Balthazar.

He races up to the tower chamber where the Brazier is all ready to go, and summons Sparky for a new day of fire and brimstone.  The fire elemental's commands are to head straight for the Khan's tent and immolate everything in his path.

When Balthazar takes off to summon Sparky, Loukas turns to the Regent and Miroslav, "What say you? I say we split out forces: 1.) board ships and land to attack the enemy camp with as many as we may take. 2. An assault through the front gates when the amphibious operation begins, leaving behind a strong enough force to hold the gate and permit the reentry of our forces if the attack fails.

"If, you think we are better off holding our strength and simply permitting the Perchenegs to depart, that is your decision. However, even if the Khan survives our attack they are temporarily headless as his chieftains recover. Whomever we kill today will not be back at us in the future."

"My wounds need binding," A'kos says.  "Then I'll be ready for more battle."

Upon hearing A'kos Cuivi steps forward and looks over the Magyars wounds. He clutches the amber prayer beads hanging from his own neck in both hand and shuts his eyes. He leans forward and place his mouth a few inches from the most severe of A'Kos's wounds.

He breaths out harshly, letting the healing power of his peoples God's pass through him and into the Magyar. Within a few seconds the wound begins to mend.

Once the breath is finished, the Chud holy man stands back and takes in the power of the Gods.

"Miraculous," murmurs A'kos, who bows then and says, "Thank you, good Cuivi for your healing breath."

Looking at the others he shrugs, grins and says, "I'm ready!"

Miroslav, still bleeding form several wounds looks towards Dobrynya with a gleam in his eye and a feral grin..."We hurt them now when they are bound in confusion?" he asks with more than a little enthusiasm.

Dobrynya lets a scarred hand stroke his grey streak beard as he thinks. A quick exchange of glances between Zmija, the brother of Volos and Miroslav and he speaks..."Yes, we need to hit them now. I would rather have waited until the men sent by Sviatoslav had arrived but this is no longer an option. Most likely the chiefs will retreat back deep into Pecheneg territory to elect a new Khan...let us send them smarting. My men will hold the gate and I can send others out to help push the Pecheneg scum on their way."

A broad, almost evil smile spreads across the battle worn face of the big Rus. He looks at A'Kos and says..."I trust you are prepared to lead the cavalry against the Turks and their mongrels? I will take the Heart of Oak and as many ships as are available and land troops to the east along the road that circles the city to the north. You will need to give us and hour or so before heading out of the gates so we can get in place. While the fire creature creates havoc, we will move to crush them from two directions."

He looks to the others and says..."Do you have anything to add to this plan?"

In reply to Miroslav (msg # 98):

Loukas looks at Zmija and back to his Captain, I think the brothers of Peles would be an effective strike force. What if we were to wait until the forces were landing and Dyanna were to open the mirror and we can jump into the midst of the camp to deter them.

"My thinking is that we would strike and then move towards the shore where Miro will be landing. If the follow us they will then be slammed from the rear by A'kos and our Horse. A sort of three-pronged attack it would be then, yes?"
This message was last edited by the player at 01:36, Fri 17 Aug 2012.

Miroslav looks at Zmija then at Loukas and says..."Perhaps...how many warrior monks do you number?"

"There are one hundred of us. If Dyanna can place us in the middle of the camp when you're hitting the docks and A'kos is charging from the gates, we ought to be able to diminish their response in either direction and sow a good bit of confusion."

"Storm's Wind rides!" A'kos answers gleefully.  "Yes indeed!  An hour you say?  I shall be there!"

Rubbing his hands together he smiles at everyone, nodding enthusiastically.

"It looks like my course has been decided on. I will open the mirror for the Brothers of Veles. Have the Brothers gather here. We will go through in an hours time."

She smiles,

"There may only be 100 Brothers of Veles but there will look to be considerably more before I am finished."

A'kos retreats to where Storm's Wind is stabled, and calls for the cavalry to amass at the gates.  He is nearly the first one there, and has his sword out and ready for the charge to come.  In a weapon case made for the saddle sits three spears, each easily accessible.  Once the horsemen are assembled he says merely, "We charge like the four wind blows - briskly and with narrow focus to drive a wedge into the mongrel horde!  To victory!"

ooc: how many cavalry am I in charge of?

Miroslav looks lost in thought for a moment and says..."Archers! Yaro, you take your archers and head out staying well behind the Cavalry. Heinrich, you go with Yaro and his men. You are to wait until A'Kos is nearly upon them before letting your arrows fly."

Addressing all..."The flame creature should be nearly at the Khan's yurt by now. We will leave with the ships as soon as we can. A'Kos and Brothers of Veles, stand ready."


"The enemy greatly out numbers us but we will catch them in confusion and drive them back to the steppes!"

With that said he wheels around and gathers those who will accompany the ships and makes his way tot he docks.

Zmija watches Miroslav leave then says to Loukas..."The brothers are being rallied as we speak, they should arrive shortly."

Dobrynya watches Miroslav take charge of the situation with a look that borders on pride. Without a word he stands and leaves the room to confer with his officers concerning the holding of the gate.

As everyone is leading Loukas makes a point of saying, "Miro let us hear three horn blasts from you when you are landing your force. This will let me and A'kos know to strike! A'kos."

When the Brothers of Veles begin to assemble he moves among them welcoming and ensuring that they are prepared for what is likely to be a difficult fight, "My brothers! Prepared for a little fun? We shall be charging in amongst the barbarians at our gates. They are going to be somewhat confused and angry as we believe we have managed to kill their Khan; however, they will outnumber us 1,000 to one regardless. A confused elephant is still an elephant...

"My brothers, our purpose is to cause so much pain and disarray amongst these vile Half-Orcs that Miroslav's forces and A'kos might strike the camp from either side and in doing so we shall cause this horde not only to melt away, but to never consider returning. We shall be the serpent at the feet of their thundering, elephantine mass. Our role is to bring upon them chaos and we shall do so by striking quickly and moving using what we have learned from the Horned and Bearded to help clean the pollution from our City's sacred ground.

"Prepare yourself, my brothers, for the day has come for us to prove our worth not only to our God, but to our fellow citizens!"

Once he has spoken he lets Zmija and the priests take over. He, himself, rests/meditates chanting the songs of Veles along with his brothers.

Heinrich nods, and looks at his depleted quiver, then up to Yaro.

"Sounds like the excitement begins again soon. Everyone, including me, will need to pick up more arrows."

Yaro smiles at the German and has one of his archers deliver a full quiver of arrows to him. "We keep ourselves well stocked here in this city. The Pechenegs are a constant threat."

He begins to walk to the gates..."You will have to tell me more about yourself while we walk yes?"

Before he steps out of the building, Miroslav nods at Loukas and says..."Yes, three blasts of the horn!"

As the different groups prepare to attack the confused Pechenegs, reports from the wall tell of "Sparky" absolutely torching the large yurt of Kurya Khan before being taken down by the elite guard once again but not without heavy casualties on the side of the Pechenegs.

There has been no report of anyone seeing the Khan exit his yurt.

Miroslav and the many ships under his command take to the water quickly, which should be no surprise since most of the ships had just docked the night before.

For now it is just a waiting game. Once the three horn blasts sounds, the wait will be over.

Heinrich walks with Yaro towards the assembly point, he checks the arrows in his quiver, making sure they are all sound.

He speaks carefully and quietly, "I was a soldier with the army of the Holy Roman Emperor. My transport wrecked, and I never made it back. I ended up here."

He then waits quietly for any response.

A'kos sits patiently upon Storm's Wind, a calm figure at the fore of a restive crowd.  His mouth quirks in a small smile - he thinks of Jaleh.  His thoughts turn then to an unforeseen future, wonders what lies in store...then, again turns to the battle at hand, and he grins fiercely, pulls a spear from his saddle sheath and checks it's lethal end.

Satisfied, he waits patiently the sound of three blasts of the horn.

Dyanna watches the brothers of Veles gather and wonders if there is a limit to how many people can pass through the mirror. She smiles and says to herself,

"We will soon find out."

She then begins to prepare her own spells she will cast once through the mirror. Her plan is to create a virtual army of battle monks through illusion.

Yaro claps a strong hand on the German's shoulder and says...":This group has a habit of picking up strays! They found me in the dungeon of  being known as Vikhor. My lack of good sense found me there first. I am lucky to be alive."


Looking towards the gates he says..."Soon the hawks will fly!"

For now, Balthazar grabs some chicken wings, dunks them in hot sauce and watches the spectacle through the Mirror.  He'll keep his remaining magical abilities in reserve.

In just under an hours time, three blasts from a great hunting horn echo across the city of Khorsun as Miroslav and the land forces converge on the west end of the Pecheneg encampment.

Dyanna speaks her magical phrases that trigger the mirror and in a flash the portal opens showing the burned remains of the Khan's yurt in the middle of the camp.

When the Miro's horns sound, Loukas begins to sing of Veles and how he has taught a wrym's cleverness and a bull's determination and the value and power of a man's word. Everyone who listens remembers that it is the oaths they have sworn that bind them to each other and in that binding hold together everything important in the world. It is for this they are preparing to throw themselves into the midst of the Khan's army!

As he sings and Dyanna opens the portal the Brother's of Veles and everyone else in the room can feel their heartbeat quicken and suddenly feel a bracing confidence that regardless of what comes next they are not alone and that even if they are out numbered a few united are stronger than whatever numbers stand against them. They are ready to face the Percheneg hordes!

Accordingly, Loukas looks into the mirror first to be certain that he is not rushing into an actual fire and to get a sense of what enemy is in the immediate areas. If it looks relatively safe he leads the Wooly One's brotherhood through the mirror and into the fray continuing his poem and with a grin and wink to Dyanna.

Result of Poem: Raises morale of associated creatures 10% & gives +1 To Hit for 1 Turn

A'kos hears the horns, lifts his spear, shouts, "Open the gate!"

With the thunder of hooves surrounding them, 500 cavalrymen make their charge across the open ground before the city and crash into the ranks of mongrels before the gate.  A'kos uses butt and point to deal death and damage around him.

At the sounds of the horn, the Pecheneg camp is attacked on three different fronts.

First in the center of the camp already in disarray as loukas, Zmija and the brothers of Veles appear to file in from nowhere. All 100 Brothers of Veles pour through in no time followed by 100 more Brothers armed with slings and bows courtesy of Dyanna's Spectral force spell. They cause great confusion.

Yaro, Heinrich and the rest of the archers burst through the gate just before the cavalry and let loose a volley of arrows upon the distracted Pecheneg. These arrows have great effect since the hordes attention was in the other direction.

A'Kos leads the 500 heavy cavalry directly into the midsts of the Pecheneg line, scattered as it may be. They hit hard and the Pechenegs crumble before them, many with multiple arrows sticking from their bodies. A'Kos takes a spear to the leg, but it is a minor injury. The spearman pays with his life as the Falcon skewers him through the neck.

Moments after the cavalry hit, a commotion can be heard from the west road as over a thousand footmen lead by Miroslav slam into the Pecheneg encampment. Miroslav, Oleg and Falki fight side by side in the lead of the force. The battle hardened crew of the Heart of Oak right behind, then the city regulars, guardsmen, troops and militia follow.

Ok...I am using some tabletop rules for mass battles I have here at home to decide the outcome of the battle. This is now time for you all to do some creative writing. Let me hear what you are doing in the battle and be graphic:) No need to roll or do any of that stuff for now, just a practice inc reative writing, the better you write the better xp points awarded:)

As Loukas and his Brethren come dancing through the Dyanna's mirror he spies the Percheneg shamen with what must be the Khan's corpse. With a fierce laugh he changes his tune, "As the Wooly One steals the Thunderer's cow let us swipe the Barbarian's Khan!" While he is speaking he looks about for more targets and spying a group of Percheneg warriors that must be present to protect the shamen indicates them as a target for Zmija. It is a this juncture that he notes how the Brotherhood has grown thanks to Dyanna's spell and laughs again with a wave of appreciation back towards where she stands on the other side of her portal, "Come Brothers, our work lays before us!", he says as he launches his force towards the Shamen.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:02, Sun 26 Aug 2012.

An example:

Oleg, who had been following closely behind Miroslav when the troop of footmen hit the Pecheneg encampment, soon found himself separated from his comrade from the Heart of Oak and almost completely surrounded by Pechenegs.

Knowing that he was lost if he remained surrounded, he whirled around, flinging his lang seax about him in a wide clearing arc, smacking away several spear points in the process.

Seeing a weak point in the crowd of foemen he attacked, driving the needle-like point of his single edged short sword deep into the neck of an encroaching Pecheneg warrior before ripping it out the side and slashing across the face of a second. He felt the tip of a spear rip at his side and catch on his mail byrnie, the force of the blow hurt but he did not feel the links give away.

Through the melee he saw Miroslav just 30 yards or so in the distance. Ducking under a slash from a curved Pecheneg saber he began to run, cutting and slashing all the while, not caring if he killed, disabled of just cleared a path to safety.

Just about 10 yards away from Miroslav he is stopped in his tracks by the butt of spear thrust into the side of his face. He staggers and tastes the blood where a few of his teeth had come through his cheek before his eyes focus on the Pecheneg warrior who did this, who is now preparing to attack again.

The Pecheneg, a short but powerfully built man, whirls his spear around, lining the tip up for a thrust to Oleg's unprotected throat. He thrusts but Oleg has recovered enough to cover the line with a hanging parry deflecting the powerful thrust to the inside and returning an overhead cut with his own weapon. THe Pecheneg turns his hand with the force of the parry and brings the butt of his spear around to catch the overhead cut of the Varangian. Oleg will not be denied as his blade binds against the shaft of the spear and winds around aligning the point for his own thrust.

He steps forward and drives the point deep into the chest of the Pecheneg, it's severe point passes through the poorly made mail of the steppe warrior and deep into his heart wounding him mortally.

Oleg does not stick around to view his handiwork, instead he pushes on till once again he fights by the side of his commander.

"STAY TIGHT TO EACH OTHER," cries A'kos as the vanguard of the cavalry makes contact with the poorly formed line of the enemy.  The charge thrusts deep like a lance into the heart of the mongrels; amidst the first blows A'kos takes a slight wound from the side, but the horse guarding his flank surges forward and the foe-man is lost to sight beneath the crush of churning hooves.

Storm's Wind rushes fiercely on, his eyes showing white as snot and froth fly from his snorting nose.  A'kos grins exultantly, giving the warhorse free rein, and 'Wind does not slow until the cavalry has pierced deeply into the enemy encampment.

Once there A'kos shouts, "REFORM ON ME!"

As the mongrel front line recovers and counters the charge, A'kos loses his spear in the press of bodies.  He is wounded again, the brunt absorbed by his leather cuirass, and drawing his sword he lays about, offering swift, terrible overhand blows that shear limbs and leave death in his wake.  The brand flames brightly under the sun, a beacon of devastation at the heart of war!

As with all battles a pause occurs as A'kos finds open ground surrounded by several of his troop.  Climbing a low rise he looks about to take quick stock; in particular he searches for the monks at the center of the field.  He turns to one of the other riders, says, "Form up...we go to relieve our friends in the center!  There is where the battle shall be won!"

Once formed the cavalry charges again, heading toward Loukas, and the monks.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:24, Sat 25 Aug 2012.

Dyanna follows the Brothers of Veles in through the mirror. She stops for a moment and takes in the carnage and destruction caused by the elemental, a an awe inspiring sight to behold.

She shakes he head to clear it then begins to weave her own magic of spectral magic.

He hands weave and intricate patterns in the air before her as she speaks in low tones in some forgotten language. She makes hand motions that look like some sort of interpretive dance and archery as spectral monk archer begin to file through the portal after the Brothers of Veles come through.

The spectral monks keep their distance and begin firing volleys of arrows into the line of confused Pecheneg warriors. Dyanna herself stands next to them with a look of extreme concentration spread across her comely face. She does not watch for dangers or possible attacks coming from the sides or rear, she stays planted and focused on her spectral monks performance.

She does allow herself a slight smile as she sees several battle hardened warriors fall from illusionary arrows fired from illusionary bows held by spectral hands. She is half tempted to take up her own bow but does not, she stays focused and holds the illusion strong and long.

Balthazar remains behind in the City to make sure that no enemy assassins or special forces infiltrate the defenses while so many of its defenders are in the field of battle.  He casts fly and protection from normal missiles to give himself an aerial overview of his chosen ward.

Heinrich bursts through the gates with Yaro and the archers, an extra two quivers of arrows hanging from his waist, in addition to his standard extra large quiver on his back. He unleashes a steady stream of arrows at the Pechenegs, focusing on officers.

He yells to Yaro and those near him, "Officers and leaders first. Aim to disrupt any large groups. Mass fire on any that look to try to approach us. We cannot be drawn into hand to hand fighting."

He then returns to firing, loosing arrows at any leaders that appear among the horde. If any large groups emerge, he aims his shots to disrupt them, targeting men and unarmored animals alike, not wanting any group to form a coherent fighting force. When needed, he shouts at the other archers to gain the massed fire necessary to disrupt their enemies.

As the archers move forward, he also keeps his eyes on their path back to the city, not wanting get cut off or flanked, particularly by cavalry. After one particular burst of massed fire breaks up a group of mounted Pechenegs, he grins at Yaro and says, "This always goes better when we don't let anyone get close enough to have to drop our bows."

As if on cue a small, perhaps 30 Pecheneg squadron of footmen slip past the heavy cavalry charge and meet the archers. The band of archers have perhaps one last shot to get off before they are overrun by the footmen who they share even numbers with. The footmen are armed mostly with spears and short curved swords.

Loukas, Zmija and the brothers of Veles battle fiercely around the center of the camp. Even the spectral monks seems to be inspired by the song of Loukas. The private guard of the Khan hold the center still, fighting strongly, holding off the monks...until A'Kos and his cavalry but their way into the center of the encampment.

Pecheneg archers, now mounted  leave the area with a Parthian shot over their horses backsides. They ride only a few hundred feet and find the way blocked by the footsoldiers who are in conflict with Miroslav and those he leads. Horses slam into the backs of the footmen and block them in, giving neither the room to fight properly in the rough terrain.

Balthazar flies overhead, hidden from the eyes below, and takes in the carnage below.

Ok...give me one more blast of carnage in freeform style!

Miroslav hardly feels the tip of the spear ripping through the harden leather armpit of his splint armor, he did however feel as the Pecheneg on the other end of the spear twisted the weapon, ripping the puncture wound open before withdrawing for another thrust.

He was bound up with a Pecheneg warrior in front of him who had been trying to grapple the axe away from the big Rus. When the spear was ripped away, he lowered his arm on the left side to cover the side from further thrusts whole still keeping a hold on the axe with his right.

The steppe warrior thrust once again only to find a mailed arm blocking the way. The warrior grappling with Miroslav grunted as he felt the Rus's knee come up into his groin but before he can even double up, Miroslav launches his foot fresh from the kneeing, directly into the mans knee, bringing him to his knees. Miroslav uses his mailed fist around the shaft of the axe as a weapon and feeds the kneeling man a mouthful of teeth and blood before gaining full control of his own weapon again.

Feeling his armor and boots beginning to fill with his own blood he swings the axe one handed at the spearman driving him back but missing. The spearman thrusts but to no avail as the Rus deflect the point with the haft of his axe and closes, slamming the top of his axehead into the mans hands causing his to lose the grip of his weapon. A follow up, one handed swipe with the axe, cleaves the steppe warriors face in twain.

Still he can feel the blood gushing from him, seeing Oleg and Ulfr a few yards away he fights his way over to them where they can help guard his flanks and he screams to the men..."Fight on! FIght for your families and homes!"

Just having fun again:)

Dyanna continues holding her concentration of the illusion of the spectral monk archers. Beads of perspiration break out along her brow as she focuses he magical might against the minds of the enemy.

She manages to keep the spectral monks at a safe distance so they cannot be attacked, which would expel the illusion. She also keeps herself well out of harms way which is not the easiest thing to do in the middle of a battle but her archers keep her covered.

The rush of scimitar as it flashes by ones ear comes with a different whistle than that of a long sword. The key of its 'music' is slightly higher. How would that be for a final symphony? An orchestra of blades picked for their tonal whistle as they slice at your body. Wait. Should you not be paying attention to things before you rather than..., thinks Loukas as he dodges the blade of one of the now-dead Khan's Guards and blocks the sweeping arm of another with his own arm and then rolls into that Guards body letting the Percheneg's big body slam into his own, but pushing his own fist into his oncoming throat causing not only a bruising gag reflex, but giving him enough time to spin and use the soldier's body to block the blow of his comrades second swipe and bringing a knee up into the groin of the Guard who is now effectively his own guardian, which results in a sort of grunt from the Percheneg, which is the last sound he ever makes as the Brother of Veles throws a hard downward blow pushing the warrior's nose into his face. Nose, meet Brain.

Loukas spins around to face the other guard only to see that he has been joined by two more, who are just moving in. In an effort not to be penned he uses the speed Zmija has taught him that any unarmored fighter must have to survive and throws a flurry of hard blows at the Percheneg. The tactic works, mostly. In the moment, as the first blow meets the Guard's shield and the second is blocked by the arm holding the man's "instrument", his knee, which, interestingly has a small blade affixed to it, is brought up to repay the blow that Loukas had just given his comrade. Luckily the Brethren of Veles are not only agile, but hardy, because the pain that the blow inspires is rather great. Dobrynya was right about these fellows., he thinks as he uses his moment to spin around the Guard and connect a kick to the back of his other knee hearing it crack and Guard fall.

"You'll all join your KHAN today! The Brethren of the Woolly one are here to shepherd you all to his realm!!!", he shouts as he takes a careful step back and his two new opponents move into place. They clearly do not speak Rus as his words do not seem to have any influence, but one of his Brothers nearby laughs having brought down his own opponent and repeats the challenge.

Meanwhile, as Loukas feels the blood seeping down his inner thigh the Perchenegs attack and while he avoids the blows of the first, the second's scimitar scratches the right side of his chest. Luckily for him the nearly berserker rage that imbues a monk of Veles in a fight enables Loukas to ignore the added pain. Because he is 'nearly' berserk a monk of Veles still has his mental facilities in full and this is where the cunning of the Woolly One comes into play.

Loukas uses the momentum of the Guard that cut him to move in closer, which not only enables him to trap the Percheneg's arm and blade under his own arm, but connect his fist with the man's jaw with two fierce rapid blows. As he does this he realizes that he will not be able to use the man as shield to block the other Guard's blow, a tactical error he realizes too late, but because they are now in so closely he is able to push aside the arm behind incoming thrust. This enables the one he thought he had locked to unlock himself by smashing his helmeted head down upon Loukas's un-protected one.

The blow did not surprise the half-Rus, half-Greek monk, but it did force him to push himself away and while seeing something like stars from the attack he was not stunned. Rather he danced to the left of the Guard and threw a punch at his face, which was dodged, and then a second at his now exposed, unarmored armpit. This blow connects, sending the big Half-Orc spinning to Loukas's right and into the oncoming attack of his comrade. That had not been unexpected by Loukas, but he could not help but feel some smugness at the effect.

As he prepared to meet his remaining foe he sees the warrior suddenly fall forward and notes that Zmija seems to have appeared out of no where, "Come little Brother, your playmates have distracted you from the work we must do! We must keep this fight moving before the enemy realizes we are out numbered!"

While harsh, Loukas knows his Master is correct and he looks around to note that while a few of the Brothers have fallen the majority are still up and Dyanna's illusions continue to harass the Perchenegs and as a result there is a new force of them forming up to charge the "archers". Nodding quickly in affirmation, he points, "We ought to strike next there", and so saying he begins gathering the Monks together, "HOY, Brethren. Let us engage that band of ruffians in a dance. Come!!!"

The remaining Monks tear through the camp and fall upon the gathering Perchenegs, who, focused on the "archers" had not expecting anyone un-horsed to move so quickly are surprised. This group is strong, but unlike their previous opponents are not Elite. As they charge, Loukas is joined in singing a battle song that comes out like a deep, unsettling dirge. A buzz of deathly wasps that when combined with the monk's blows quickly break up the Percheneg formation before it actually makes it to where Dyanna's illusionary force stands and where the illusionist is attempting to wisely stay out of harm's way.

OOC: I really didn't realize until after I'd written this that I'd put in groin focused attacks like the one's in Miro's post. I've never experienced any sort of actual fighting. Well, not since I was a kid and those weren't quite like this. I say this as a rationale: it seems to me that when one is close in one takes whatever blows one may and get the best results and in the situation I'd created that seemed to be Loukas's best option. The Percheng's version of that attack is meant as pure, unadulterated vengeance for what had been visited upon his friend. Sorry if it seems I was swiping an idea!
This message was last edited by the player at 13:50, Sun 02 Sept 2012.

No such thing as too many groin attacks unless you are on the receiving end:)

Bolstered by Loukas song, Zmija follows the younger monks lead into battle. He whirls his iron shod staff over head, the metal ends whistle as they slice through the air with a whump.

While he knows the staff is not the most practical battlefield weapon due to it's length he knows that the other Brothers understand his method of combat enough to give him room to work.

Rushing ahead at a faster rate than even young Loukas, Zmija imposes himself between the onrushing Pechenegs and Dyanna and her spectral monks. He takes a low stance and holds his staff near the end and begins spinning and whirling about, clearing the area of Pechenegs or splitting their skulls if they do not move while the other Brothers take them down.

I find that the creative writing exercise takes me out of the game a bit, so I'll continue to just issue Balthazar's actions as always.

If Balthazar spots a siege tower that is either full of enemy warriors or has enemy warriors nearby, he will cast reduce on a key support post such that the tower comes crashing down.

A'kos leads the remaining cavalry in a flanking maneuver so that he hits the center from the right just as the monks attack the center of the camp.  The effort pushes the mongrels more tightly together, and it becomes easy to slay rank upon rank of the halfmen as the cavalry spreads along the line.

Connecting with the monks, A'kos is unsure if they're illusion, shouts, "Have a care not to trample our friends."

In this way he gives the monks wide berth so as not to ruin Dyanna's efforts.  It would not do to have a horseman ride through the image of a monk!

With sweat flowing down his brow, Heinrich smoothy looses arrow after arrow at the Pechenegs. He aims at officers, and any who he sees giving orders. He loses track of time, focusing on his bow; knocking an arrow, drawing, aiming, and releasing.

As the battle continues, he sees a group of footmen break and head toward the archers.

"Quickly, fire and break them!", he yells, shifting his fire to the leader of the group approaching. He moves smoothly loosing the arrow into his bow where it finds the throat of a charging Pecheneg. Heinrich snaps another arrow across his bow, loosing into the stomach of a footmen charging up to him. As the Pecheneg stumbles up to Heinrich, he drops his bow over his shoulder, and wrenches his sword from its sheath. As the charging infantryman stumbles, one hand gripping the arrow in his stomach, Heinrich sidesteps and brings his sword down onto the back of the Pecheneg's neck. The soldier crumples to the ground, his spine severed by the blow.
As the remaining Pechenegs mix with the archers, chaos ensues as the archers hurry to ready their hand weapons.  Heinrich uses the respite he gained with his bow and sword to hamstring an infantryman trying to impale Yaro, who finishes the Pecheneg with a slash across the throat.

Heinrich swivels, sensing motion behind, catching a glancing blow from the fist of a Pecheneg recovering from cutting down another archer, bloodied scimitar in his grasp.
He reverses his sword, drawing it across the stomach of his attacker, spilling his entrails on the ground. As his foe scrabbles on the ground, trying to hold himself together as he bleeds out on the ground.

With a mutter of "Die in the dirt," in German, he kicks the infantryman to the ground.  He looks around, seeing the archers finishing the remains of the infantrymen, he cleans and resheathes his sword, then readies his bow.

"Time to continue firing," he calls out the the remaining archers, looking for a target, and making sure they are not cut off from the city.

Ulfr wades into the fray, the sounds of battle getting the big Norseman's blood up.  He charges in, spear and shield up, a roar echoing from his throat.

The first Pecheneg he meets without slowing, catching the spear thrust on his shield and driving the point of his own into the man's throat.  Without slowing, he rips it free in a spray of gore and crashes full on into the next Pecheneg.  The impact stops Ulfr's charge, sends his foe to the ground.  The Norseman's heavy booted foot knocks him back as he tries to rise; the spear thrusts once, twice, three times before he lies still, blood pooling beneath him.

In a blur of battle rage, Ulfr presses on into the press of his foes.  The Pecheneg he next meets ties up his spear as the head sticks firmly into the shield.  He ducks the counter thrust, and drives the iron rim of his own shield into his enemy's jaw, rewarded with a spray of teeth.  Another wrench brings his spear free as the foe's saber rattles off his mail clad shoulder, bruising but not penetrating.  Then more are around him, as he realizes he's been cut off from his companions.

He crouches, shield high to ward off the blows, thrusting and slashing with the broad head of his spear, and glad that he chose a shield with an iron rim.  Even so, the metal bends under the barrage of blows, and the wood begins to splinter.

Spotting Oleg, he pushes forward towards his companion, dropping a Pecheneg with a nasty spear thrust to the knee before being brought up short by two more with ready sabers.  Sparks fly as one blade bites the battered iron shield rim, shearing through it.  The other he catches on his spear shaft, using the momentum to spin the weapon around and catch the man with a ringing blow to the temple.  He moves forward again, but is driven back by a spear thudding into his shield with a powerful impact.  He looks to see a powerfully built Pecheneg warrior, perhaps a chief, grinning at him with a look of bloodlust, sweeping out his saber.  Even as he does, Ulfr lets fly with his own spear; the head buries itself high in his foe's chest.

A great crack can be heard as a third of his shield shears off; Ulfr crouches low again, sweeping out his axe; the head of the heavy weapon shears off one Pecheneg's leg just above the knee, leaving the man screaming on the ground.  Blood then spurts from Ulfr's side as the other's saber finds his side and pierces his mail.

The remainder of Ulfr's shield crushes that man's ribs.  Then he sees the big Pecheneg warrior pull the spear from his chest; though the steppe warrior spits blood, he comes forward.

The two exchange a flurry of blows and the rest of Ulfr's shield disintegrates; he takes his long axe in a two handed grip, whipping it around and splitting the Pecheneg's skull.

He continues with long sweeps of his axe; for a brief moment, they stand back from him, and he takes advantage to push forward and stand beside Oleg, chest heaving as he sucks in great gusts of air.

A spooked riderless horse runs through the spectral monk archers dispelling the illusion but it matters not as the Brothers of Veles and the cavalry meet with the archers and a moment later with the footmen lead by Miroslav.

The Pecheneg camp is in shambles and most of the steppe nomads have fled the area. A collective cheer can be heard from atop the northern wall of the city as the reserve troops and citizen militia celebrate the routing of the Pechenegs.

Miroslav climbs on top of an abandoned yurt and blows his horn once again. He raises his hands to gather the forces of Khorsun..."The Pechenegs are broken for today! Let us return back to the safety of our walls after we loot their camp, that is!"

He looks towards Yaro and says..."I am leaving it up to you and your archers to dispatch the wounded Pechenegs left on the field."

He wearily climbs down from the yurt, favoring a right leg that is red with blood. Leaning on his great shoulder-height axe, he watches as the troops collect the spoils of battle.

Balthazar flies down to Miroslav and congratulates him.  "So ... " he winks, "ready to take on the Emperor yet?"

A'kos moves his mount toward Miroslav, salutes him with a grin.

"Good fight," he approves.  "Maybe tomorrow they give us a challenge, eh?"

He looks around at the looting soldiers, says, "Might be well to collect the loot into one pile, share and share alike.  Not everyone who fought will have an opportunity at prime spoils..."

As the Perchenegs break Loukas's voice climbs with a song of victory. Despite the song, however, he felt his wounds. He also felt for those who'd fallen, particularly his Brethren, but since they were returning to Veles's home he could not feel too badly for them. The discomforts of his wounds for example reminded him what those who have gone to the green and wet world of grassy plains and eternal spring that Veles rules in the roots the World Tree would never feel such pains again.

That is not to say that he is sorry he survived. No. For despite his wounds he has his limbs and his heart and his head. When Miroslav's horn blows so ends his song and Loukas and the Brothers of Horned and Bearded One gather. Zmija leads a song-prayer of thanksgiving and their voices rise up from low thrum to ecstatic yelp at the end. They then pass around skins of wine they carry and give whatever healing and first aid they may to those of Khorun around them.

Loukas leaves Zmija to oversee this and he goes back to where they fought the shamen, the guardians and where the Khan's body lies. He is looking for items of power that such beings often bear not only for his own gain, but to protect those who might not know better. Additionally, and perhaps more importantly, he is looking for some sign that it actually is the Khan's remains they were bearing. If he has not truly fallen here they have bought their city a much shorter breath.

Miroslav laughs and shakes his head saying..."I am afraid we are a bit far from being ready to handle the emperor on his own turf yet. In fact we are far from out of a mess yet. I cannot say what tomorrow will bring concerning the Pechenegs. Will they retreat or re group? We can only guess now but to be sure we best get some rest and make sure we are ready for their return with the new day."

Cuivi has been working with several other healers within the city and has coordinated a makeshift hospital tent just inside the north gate to deal with the wounded. He stands near the gate waving in any and all injured.

Oleg flashes a broad grin at Ulfr and claps his on the shoulder..."You fought like a wild bull today! But, you better get some rest tonight , I fear your heart will burst through you chest!

Balthazar collects what loot he can from the enemy, investigating the burnt tent of the Khan.

In reply to Oleg (msg # 145):

Ulfr grins back at Oleg, "Yes, indeed.  I fear I may not be able to rest because of my powerful thirst.  Where is the ale?"

"A thirst as great as min? This I highly doubt but we can get a drink after you help me roll a few of these dead Pechenegs here."

Oleg points at a few bodies of Pecheneg officers.

In reply to Oleg (msg # 148):

Ulfr looks skeptically at Oleg.  "I doubt they have any ale on them, but we might as well."  He then grins and begins searching the Pechenengs.

Within a few minutes of working, Oleg finds a goat skin bag filled with kumiss. he takes a long drink of the fermented mares milk and hands it to Ulfr with a grin of his own..."Here, drink this. It will put hair on your ...well you seem hairy enough. Just drink it!"

The slaying of the dead Pechenegs and the looting go on for a few more hours and a decent sized pile of mundane loot sits inside the gate of the city, guarded by several of Yaro's bowmen.

Thousands of coins and another great pile of jewelry, weapons and armor as well as horses have been gathered. Another smaller pile has been delivered directly to Miroslav...things possibly less mundane.

Scouts report that much of the Pecheneg host is gone but several thousand of the horsemen remain in the next valley setting up a makeshift camp.

"Let us attack them tonight - using the night as our cloak," suggests A'kos.  "'Tis an opportunity, Miro!"

Miroslav smiles at A'Kos..."You are around us Rus enough, we should start speaking in our own language around you more so you can pick it up. When you call me "Miro" you are calling me peace! I like the irony!" the big Rus laughs.

"Perhaps you are right though. We took few casualties compared to the Pechenegs. Stomping out the immediate threat might be a good idea. I will hear the others thoughts on this. before deciding."

Loukas sends a squad of his Brethren with the Khan's corpse back to the Regent in Khorsun. Dealing with the body is a matter of diplomacy and to his mind the Skomorokh of Veles wants to be certain that it is used most effectively. He then returns to where Miroslav, A'kos, and the others are meeting.

Hearing A'kos's suggestion, Loukas agrees, "Yes. I agree with the Falcon. If we permit they to regather we shall only extend our problems. We must give them reason to flee!"

Loukas sends a squad of his Brethren with the Khan's corpse back to the Regent in Khorsun. Dealing with the body is a matter of diplomacy and to his mind the Skomorokh of Veles wants to be certain that it is used most effectively. He then returns to where Miroslav, A'kos, and the others are meeting.

Hearing A'kos's suggestion, Loukas agrees, "Yes. I agree with the Falcon. If we permit they to regather we shall only extend our problems. We must give them reason to flee!"

Balthazar takes out his bow.  "I'm ready!" He tries to string the bow, gets a bit mixed up, and falls head over heels as he gets tripped up.

"Nicely done, Mage!" laughs A'kos at Balthazar's antics...

Dyanna raises an eyebrow as she gives the Hedonite a sidelong glance.

"My ability to create a spectral force is spent for the day but I am willing to join the archers and bend my bow for Khorsun."

Dobryna arrives in time to hear the trailing end of conversation. He, of course, already has had the same intelligence passed on to him.

He look sat Miroslav and says..."Stamp them out this night! I tire of these southern games played by the Greeks and their allies. Life is much easier, if a good bit colder in Novgorod!"

He then turns and leaves Miroslav to handle this business.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:17, Sat 15 Sept 2012.

Miroslav places his hands on his hips and bows his head in thought for a moment, then looks up and says..."Well there we have it, Lord Dobrynya has decided for us!"

He looks to those assembled and says..."We march just as before, only now, at the same time. A'kos and the cavalry will lead us against the new Pecheneg encampment. Visit the healers is you must be be ready to leave within the hour!"

Loukas gives The Hedonist's performance a golf clap and wry smile, "It appears as if I am not the only Skomorokh in the party. I shall have to improve my game!"

When Dobrynya and Miroslav make their decision, he is relieved. This does seem the moment to neutralize a threat and in doing so give Khorsun maybe an entire generation without Perchenegs threatening them. Not to mention removing one of the Emperor's 'paws'. He leads his Brethern, and himself, to the healers and they prepare themselves for what is going to be a very long night.

Loukas leads the remaining 85 Brothers of Veles to the healers of which 6 are actual clerics devoted to Veles. Only the more seriously injured are administered to but after about 15 minutes they are ready to join the main force against the remaining Pechenegs.

A'kos regathers the cavalry to him, musters to the fore.  He ensures the horseman who rode down the foe is upon his flank yet again.

"'Tis good to have a trustworthy armsman upon my flank," he says to the man.

Once the troop is mustered he says to Miro, "We are ready for you to give the order."

In reply to Oleg (msg # 150):

Ulfr takes the kumiss from Oleg and has a deep drink, then continues on with his task.  "It's not good ale, but it will do," he grunts back at the other man.

As discussion begins of striking out against the Pechenegs, he listens, and once the decision to go forward with the plan, he raises his axe in the air and gives a roaring cheer.

Balthazar recovers from his bow fumble and is ready.  "I still have some spells and items left if we get into a bind."

Note: Cuivi and Clay the clay golem guard the Heart of the Oak, where Balthazar's Book of Infinite Spells is still open to the magic missile page.

Heinrich helps getting things organized and looting bodies, but open hearing that another assault is in the preparation, he refills his quivers.

He finds Yaro and says,"Sounds like we'll get to feather a few more of these savages today,hmm?"

Miroslav gives the signal and A'Kos begins to lead the cavalry toward the Pechenegs with the archers and infantry in tow.

Once the first hill is crested, it is clear that the Pechenegs either anticipated this or were able to spot the force leave the north gate. Much of the Pecheneg force is mounted and upon the cry of an officer begin to charge towards the defenders of Khorsun, most armed with lances. A few bowmen but they have not had the chance to fully restock their depleted stores of arrows.

Roughly two hundred light horse are charging from about 50 (150 feet) yards out.

Loukas sees an opportunity. Turning to Miro and Zmija, "The Brethren of Veles shall use our speed and stealth to flank the enemy. Come, let us strike!"

As the monks flank A'kos cries, "Archers loose - one volley!"

With that he leads the cavalry downhill in a charge.  Did I mention downhill.  Should make for an interesting clash!  LOL!

Alright!  This is perfect.

Balthazar casts ice storm, the driving sleet version.

From the spell description:

or the ice storm can be made to cause driving sleet to fall in an area of 8” diameter and both blind creatures within its area of effect for the duration of the spell and cause the ground in the area to be icy, thus slowing movement within by 50% and making it 50% probable thot a moving creature will slip and fall when trying to move.

I'll just drop that right into their midst, once they've picked up a bit of momentum.  Bye bye charge :)

Noting the storm A'kos pulls up the charge.

"Surely this is no natural storm,"  he says to those around him.

"Advance at a walk, weapons drawn!"

Dyanna lets loose two arrows from long distance at the onrushing Pecheneg cavalry. She does not bother to aim for anything but the mass of the charging horsemen. She smiles, knowing the storm of ice is the work of Balthazar without even seeing his cast the spell.

Guess I'm the only wizard around?

"There are a few wizardly types in the city but none as martially inclined as Balthazar. Balthazar is also one of the most powerful in Khorsun. The others will fight to protect their home but have shown no desire to go into battle with the invaders yet. If they actually broke into the city it may be a different matter.

The ice/sleet storm his just a second or two before the volley of arrows reach the horsemen. Despite the great distance the archers hit an incredible amount of targets, dropping 10 of the 200 riders.

roughly 100 of the remaining light cavalry find themselves fully on ice and both they and their mounts fall to the ground. Many of them are injured as well as their horses. The remaining 90 or so do not continue the charge, instead they stop dead in their tracks with many turning back to help the fallen and wounded.

Nearly 300 Pecheneg infantry have begun moving forward behind the cavalry as well now.

The Brothers of Veles will be able to attack the next round and the others after that unless they resume their charge. The Khorsun archers can attack again and the Khorsun infantry must wait another round.

OOC: I realized this morning as I was laying abed, lolling about feeling it get closer to noon in my 'IknowitisSaturdayandIhavenoplansorresponsibilitiesbutIshouldstillgetupsoon' mode and thinking about this story that I had not made clear whom Loukas was leading the Bretheren against.

So, in my awakened mode: The monks are not moving against the horsemen. Loukas is leading them away from the main force of our forces to strike the infantry. In other words, he's intending his attack to come once the Percheneg cavalry is dealt with and the army of Khorsun is attacking their infantry (hence the 'stealth', I mentioned).

Ok then...one more round before the BoV can hit the infantry from the flank.

Without waiting for the word from A'Kos, Yaro gives the signal to the archers to let fly another volley of arrows. He directs the shot to the shambled cavalry remnants.

Balthazar shoots magic missiles at the wounded to accompany the extra round of archers.


17:30, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 20 using 5d4+5 with rolls of 3,4,1,4,3. magic missile damage.

So he picks wounded targets doing 4, 5, 2, 5, 4, damage respectively to each.

A'kos continues a slow march forward, uninterested in fighting on ice.  Once they close within 20 yards, he'll announce a loud, "Attack!" and lead a short charge to begin the melee.

ooc: to be clear he'll not fight on the ice, nor will he attack until the second volley of arrows lands upon the enemy.

Heinrich looses arrows, firing smoothly into the cavalry. He calls out to the archers around him, "Keep firing, but be prepared to move to stay clear of close combat. We need to provide steady fire."

"Yeah, keep the enemy troops forced to stay in the icy area, and we'll cut them down in no time."

Ulfr will remain with the infantry, starting the battle with his spear and shield.  He leaves the strategy to his commander, as the excitement of battle builds within him.

The archers along with Balthazar's magic missiles take a heavy toll on the cavalry this round as 26 of the horsemen fall leaving 164 remaining and many of them trapped on the ice. The Pecheneg charge has completely halted and the infantry is moving even slower than before.

A'Kos and the cavalry can hit them with the charge now...double damage on charging attack and the BoV can reach the infantry this round. One more round for the Khorsun infantry to reach the Pecheneg cavalry.

Cavalry charges, by the by...

Balthazar continues to aim magic missiles at wounded targets.

12:42, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 15 using 5d4+5 with rolls of 2,1,4,2,1. magic missile.

So he does 3, 2, 5, 3, and 2 damage to wounded Pechenegs.

Does it turn the page?  let's see ...

12:43, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 86 using 1d100. page turn chance.

No it does not.  2 magic missile spells left.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:43, Tue 25 Sept 2012.

Dyanna continues to ply her bow for the defense of her new home. She begins to shoot over the head of the cavalry and into the mass of Pecheneg infantry that is slowly drawing nearer behind the horse.

Yaro follows Dyanna's lead and directs the archers to rain down death on the approaching infantry. Yaro is young but very competent with his bow and a good leader of men.

Zmija looks over at Loukas, who is leading the Brothers of Veles to flank the infantry. He gives the young Brother a quick feral grin that suggests Zmija could have possibly missed his calling.

He spins the iron shod staff in his hands in anticipation of meeting the last stand of the invading Pecheneg forces.

Miroslav shouts out to the Khorsun infantry as he begins to run ahead of them..."We charge these bastards and send them back to the earth from whence they sprung!"

Next round, infantry will hit the Pecheneg cavalry.

As the infantry begins it full charge on foot, Oleg lashes out and punches Ulfr as hard as he can in the shoulder yelling...Come now you great brute, lets see if you can keep up with me!" He looks back and winks at Falki and smiles.

Heinrich shifts his fire to the infantry as the city troops move closer, aiming to disrupt them as much as possible before the footmen engage in hand to hand combat.  A sneer forms on his face as he fires, the side of his face swelling and changing colors from the blow taken in combat earlier.

The charge is short, vicious and the cavalry, led by A'kos, attacks the crumbling lines of the pechanegs.

Ulfr's lips curl back from his teeth in a wolfish grin.  He lets out a roaring battle cry while doing his best to outdistance Oleg.

The archers hit the infantry just a split second before Balthazars magic missles hit the cavalry. Seven of the Pecheneg infantry fall and three of the cavalry succumb to the magic missiles.

A'kos and the cavalry slam into the line as carefully as they can with it stillb e considered a charge. For the most part the line crumbles and is forced back onto the ice and several horses fall. Three lances skitter off the armor of the Magyar as he crushes into the failing line first. The Pechenegs before him are not so lucky as he unhorses one of them, killing him outright with the force of the limited charge.

Loukas and the Brothers of Veles slam into the flank of the infantry taking most of them by complete surprise. 12 of the infantry are killed in the encounter and they are not looking too interested in fighting further...rather than fight back or support the cavalry they begin to retreat in a formless mass.

The Khorsun cavalry has a few casualties but remains very strong.

Roughly 150 of the cavalry remain in the battle and show no sign of following the infantry.

Next round Khorsun infantry is at the cavalry as well.

A'kos again heaves to with his sword, making a mess of the foe with the shining blade.  He sings (off key) in his native tongue, the thrill of battle upon him.  Halting the song of battle, he cries, "Forward..forward into the foe, let none escape!"

Heeding his own call he spurs Storm's Wind, the warhorse plunging eagerly on against the enemy line.

Once they have charged into the Pecheneg infantry and sent them reeling, Loukas is not about to let the Half-Orcs simply run away. His bloodied fists strike in a furious blaze and as an enemy soldier falls he keeps moving after his fleeing comrades, "A dead Pecheneg won't be back before our walls! Let none escape. These bastards would be pillaging and raping if they had their way. Kill them all NOW!, he shouts to the Brothers of Veles as he takes off after the retreating mass. Unfortunately for the barbarians the monks are faster on their feet and he intends to exploit this to fullest extent. After all, if the infantry men are fleeing for their lives, the defenders of Khorsun are attacking for theirs.

Balthazar is glad that no one has challenged him personally.  He has more magic missiles left courtesy of the Book of Infinite Spells, so he fires them at enemy targets unerringly.

19:40, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 14 using 5d4 with rolls of 4,2,4,2,2. magic missiles.

That's the d4 roll, so adding 1 to each that's 5, 3, 5, 3, 3 damage respectively.

Does the page of the Book turn?

19:41, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 75 using 1d100 with rolls of 75. chance of page turning.

No.

With a feral grin and an almost berserker like rage, Oleg slams into the Pecheneg cavalry. His lang seax lashes out at a mounted steppe warrior. Oleg may not always be the most outgoing from the original crew of the Heart of Oak but few will deny the fact that he is a fierce warrior.

Everyone should now be in contact with an enemy unless you are an archer, be it a magical one or a mundane one.

The Pecheneg cavalry takes heavy losses after being hit with the combined might of the Khorsun cavalry and infantry. The ice is beginning to melt, making the ground wet with water and blood. The highest ranking officer still standing for the Pechenegs throws down his weapons and calls for a surrender. 81 fellow cavalry do the same.

The situation with the Pecheneg infantry is different. The Brothers of Veles continue to press the attack as the infantry retreats back into their makeshift camp. With their back to the wall they turn back on the monks. Out numbering them more than 3 to 1, they begin to take their toll on the Brothers of Veles. 10 of the monks fall when the Pechenegs begin to fight back, thirty two Pechenegs succumb to the monks.

Seeing the cavalry start to surrender, Heinrich shifts his fire to the rear of the Pecheneg infantry, away from the Brothers of Veles.

"Cover the monks!!", he yells, anger at the stubborn refusal of the Pechenegs to see reason showing in his voice.

A'kos leaves the surrender to the majority of cavalry.  Taking quick stock he sees the monks in fierce fighting and nods to his second, "Form up 20 of our fastest, let us take the flank nearest."

Quickly the cavalry forms, and A'kos leads the charge, slamming into the infantries flank with fierce abandon!

When the Infantry turns and Loukas realizes that he and his brethren are overextended he calls for a retreat, saying to Zmija, "Pull them back, but look for the right moment to return! I have a plan!"

As they withdraw, Loukas casts Entangle to help trip up the Perchenegs and pulling his Gusli as he relies on his trained agility to keep himself as safe from the enemy he begins singing another song which casts a second Entangle to hold even more of the enemy.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:15, Sat 06 Oct 2012.

Balthazar turns his magic missile on the Pecheneg infantry.

22:10, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 14 using 5d4 with rolls of 2,4,1,4,3. more magic missiles.

So that's 3, 5, 2, 5, and 3 damage respectively.


22:11, Today: Balthazar the Hedonite rolled 30 using 1d100. page turn chance.

Page does not turn.  Balthazar is now out of missiles for the day; that being his 5th firing.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:12, Sat 06 Oct 2012.

The forces of Khorsun hit the Pecheneg infantry hard over the next few minutes, with the Khorsun infantry joining in as well. Tendrils of grass and weeds entangle the feet of the Pechenegs and several seem to be paralyzed by some sort of unseen magic. At this point the Pechenegs see the futility of fighting on and to a man surrender.

220 Infantry and 150 cavalry have now surrendered. What is left of the Pecheneg horse is scattered and has left the area.

When the Pecheneg Infantry finally surrenders Loukas's song becomes one of victory as Zmija leads the Brothers of Veles in their search for their fallen. Their losses were heavy, but knowing that in one very long day Khorsun's fate had been so dramatically changed and the role that the Brethren, not to mention the Company of the Heart of Oak, had played in saving the city added even greater value to the deaths around them.

So the song starts as a chant to Veles and becomes a new verse in the Story of the Fellowship of the Heart of Oak and then ends with a final chant to Veles and for the fallen.

Miroslav calls out in the language of the Pechenegs..."You cause is lost but you have made the right choice. Come peacefully and we will treat you well, fight and we will kill you to a man!"

He calls to the archers..."Keep your bows trained on them till we have them safely locked in the city."

To the infantry..."Gather up their gear and we will march them to the gate."

The Pechenegs prisoners are taken into the city and confined to one of the barrack buildings in the northern section of the city. The rest of the day is spent sorting through and cataloging the loot taken from the Pecheneg encampment.

Healing stations are set up and the wounded administered to. In the morning notice is given for all of you to attend a noon meeting at the home of Dobrynya.

After assisting with the escort of the captured Pechenegs and loot back to the city, Loukas bids a good night's rest to each of the Fellowship and returns with the Brethren to their temple. The thrill and relief of the victory is moderated by the loss of 15 of his original 85 brothers. That means that nearly two in ten of their number fell in defense of Khorsun.

While he has spent most of the months since founding the Hall of the Horns and Wool on the road the time he had spent among his fellow monks of Volos was intense and connections between them are strong. Losses of any would be strongly felt and that so many were lost means that that evening's meal, which would have been a bit rollicking anyway, was doubly so. The mead flowed, stories were told, songs were sung, and the Brethren danced not merely to celebrate the defense of the city, but lives of the brothers who died saving it.

The next morning, Loukas was up surprisingly early. Gone are the days when he might sleep late after a long day and night like the day he had just experienced. With the discipline of the Woolly One now he is up and about. Looking into things matters that have occurred since The Heart of Oak was last in the city so many months ago and looking after the gear and equipment he has returned with. When the messenger from the Regent comes with his summons it is not a surprise and despite his responsibilities to the Hall he knows that they are not the only ones he bears.

After all, it may be an official audience, but more importantly the Fellowship is gathering!

Balthazar spends the night celebrating with the finest ladies in the city.

A'kos spends the night with the finest Lady in the city.

;)

Heinrich helps to escort the prisoners back to the city, then takes the first opportunity to restock his quivers with fresh arrows. He then goes to check the guard around the prisoners, seeing no need to leave anything to chance.

He then gets some sleep. Upon notification of the meeting, he checks the prisoners, and walks the walls until it is time to head to the meeting.

Ulfr spends the night with women who giggle when referred to as "ladies", and as much ale as he can lay hands on.

He'll be ready for the noon meeting, however.

Balthazar laughs, "A'kos, I'll never understand why you don't embrace variety."

"Ah, my friend, there is much variety!  She teaches me something new every eventide..."

The crew of the Heart of Oak are joined with several high ranking of Dobrynya's Druzhina and city officials, some Greek, some Rus and Varangian for a mid day feast of roast boar, duck and several varieties of fresh fish.

Dobrynya lets everyone eat their fill before standing and addressing the group."Time has come for a changing of the guard here in Khorsun. I long for my home in Novgorod. I leave the ruling of Khorsun in the capable hands of Miroslav, the captain of the Heart of Oak. This is will full consent of our Knyaz. The elders of the city have agreed on this. Miroslav has been reluctant in assuming this responsibility but I have been relentless. He has agreed to this just yesterday."

"I will be leaving for Novgorod within the week. Miroslav has made the Heart of Oak available for this trip."


He grabs a tankard of mead and raises it high..."Drink with me to the long health of Miroslav, Regent of Khorsun!"

Dobrynya's announcement is only a bit of a surprise, but still.... After all, this transition of power represented many things, but most of all it was symbolic of a new chapter not only for the Fellowship, but for Khorsun itself.

After drinking to Dobrynya's toast Loukas refills and stands, "My friends, I lift my cup and pledge to my Captain and Regent, Miroslav; however, let us not forget the man who has led this city since we liberated it from the Byzantines.

In doing so permit me to remind you why these past years have been so good for all of us and why they will continue to be so under Miroslav's leadership. It is because while he is certainly relentless, Dobrynya is also not unlike the Heart of Oak, whose qualities he also shares with Miroslav. Permit me to remind you, my friends, what those are...

Stamina: As the Pechenegs just learned, you may batter our gates, but you had better be prepared for our counter punch!

Will: An Emperor and a Khan have been taught a message by these two men and this city will not be deterred or intimidated by greater numbers or power!

Presence: I once made the point that we are all greater together than alone and under their leadership this city has not merely survived, but has become a beacon!

Prosperity: As I said, this city has become a beacon to all on the Black Sea not only because of the rebuilding that Dobrynya led and the defense Miroslav was so instrumental in, but that we stand here today accepting trade from all and funneling it to our Rus siblings and our Knyaz we are all richer today!

Liberation: Perhaps I repeat myself, but permit me to remind all that this city would be under the crushing hand of the Emperor or plundered by the barbarian fist of the Khan where it not for he who leaves us and he who will take his place and as a result our wise Knyaz continues to let the people of Khorsun enjoy the prosperity and good lives we have built!

Longevity: Need I say it? Our enemies would tear down these walls and destroy this Jewel of the Crimean; however, with leadership as we have had from Dobryna and with which he leaves us under Miroslav this city will continue... In a nutshell, my friends, Khorsun Stands!

I raise my cup and pledge myself to these virtues of The Heart of Oak and the men who represent them so well: our former and our new Regents. May Dobryna sail peacefully to his family and happiness in Novgorod; Miroslav sail the Ship of Khorsun as well as he has the Heart of Oak; and may Sviatoslav the Wise continue Captaining the Ship of the Rus!"

A'kos raises his cup aloft, grinning slightly as he listens to Loukas's lengthy speech.  When the monk is finished and settles himself, A'kos raises his cup slightly and says for the party's ears alone, "A fine bit of ass-kissing if I do say so myself, Loukas."

Loukas grins, raises his glass again and nods in reply to A'kos, "High praise, for if anyone knows how ass is kicked, my friend, it is The Falcon. To us all, the Fellowship of the Heart of Oak!"

A'kos snorts, takes a deep draught from his cup, then turns his attention back to Jaleh.

Balthazar gives Miroslav a hug and tells him he will miss his company.

"So fellow adventurers, what will it be next, taking down the Emperor or finding the Holy Grail?"

"Ach, what is this Holy Grail - rather I would search for the Lake wherein the sword of Arthur, King of the Britons, resides," snorts A'kos.  "Now that is a relic worth searching out!"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:10, Mon 15 Oct 2012.

Balthazar cradles his chin in thought.  "That's not a bad idea!  In fact, using Excalibur against the Emperor bears a certain appeal.  I propose Grail, Excalibur, then Emperor."

Pleased the magi accepted the idea, A'kos grins broadly...then turns his attention once again back to Jaleh.

Loukas looked as skeptical as he felt about Balthazar's desire to obtain the Holy Grail, but A'kos's mention of Excalibur inspired an actual laugh, "Erm, fellows, are there not several reasons why none of us are likely to obtain these artifacts? For example, is not the Holy Grail called such for a reason? Is it not a Christian relic? Perhaps our old friends Roderychus or Sir Jean might have made an attempt to obtain it, but as one who has turned from that religion and has no desire to return to it, I know that I shall not. As far as the great sword goes, is it not the blade born by the King of the Britons? Only pulled by the man who will be their King?

"Is there not a relic of the Rus that would help ensure Sviatoslav and his son's rule or some item that would harm the Greeks would be more to the point?"

He looks around the table somberly, "It seems to me that we have come to a point where either our enemies will have been delayed for a short time or we must be prepared for the next battle. Let us be honest: had the Heart of Oak not returned when we did, where would be Khorsun be today? How distant do we dare travel?

"I suppose what I am asking is shouldn't we be putting ourselves on a mission that will have more certain results rather than chasing after these romances?"

Balthazar says somewhat sheepishly, "I'm Christian too.  Just a rare sect."  Then he adds, "And ... I don't want to spend my life as defender of Khorsun.  I'm glad I was able to help because I was here, but I'm honestly I don't feel obligated in the least to provide further help.  My life's goal is to travel the world and see and do everything."

It had not occurred to him that Balthazar is actually a Christian. When the Magus reminds him he now recalls earlier conversations about the Hedonite sect, but the man's religiosity was so very different from the Orthodox he had grown up among that it was easy to forget. Loukas raised his cup, "Forgive me, my friend, I should have remembered your Christianity. I meant no disrespect."

After drinking he continues, "As far as defending Khorsun goes... I think you misunderstand me. While I do think of myself as a defender of this place and think that given the enemies you have made in defending this place you are one whether you wish to be or not, I do not think that this is a goal best served by our sitting here awaiting the next threat. Our best defense is finding and learning things that would give us an advantage over whomever attacks. The last few days are the best example of what I mean. We all used tools and knowledge gained in our adventures to overwhelm a much greater enemy.

"No, I am all for seeking objects that will help us. It is just that I am still doubtful is that the items you seek are of great, mythic power. They are literally given by the Deity, are they not? If you were to tell me that you had been visited by an angel or can claim some religious connection to this quest, I would be more easily convinced. As it is, while this quest might fulfill your desire to travel the world, when does this end? Will we simply follow the rumors (and even Apollonius's information could not be called much more than that given the mythic nature of the Grail) forever?"

"The magical power of my Hedonite sect gives me the ability to find the way, unerringly, to any location of repute.  I just need to concentrate for a moment - which admittedly I can only do but once a week - and I will put us on the direct path to the resting place of any item we decide to go after.  I am happy though, to research any legends of magical items in the nearby vicinity first."

"One direction is as good as another," A'kos offers.  "One antique equally so.  Once we're again horse-borne, riding the steppes then I will be content.  As for the sword of Arthur, why not?  No less hazardous than a cup, not less certain than the old witch's hut...which we did indeed find, I'll remind you."

"Laugh not at others thoughts, Loukas," he adds.  "You've yet to offer anything concrete in reply...I would hear what mythical item you would seek?  The bow of Odysseus perhaps?  The shield of Jason? 

After raising her goblet of spiced wine to the promotion of Miroslav to the position of Regent, Dyanna turns to her fellows.

"I have no great love for the emperor but I do not have the personal vendetta against him like some of you. I understand it, I just do not share it. Personally I am very happy here in Khorsun and consider it my home. Defending Khorsun is my primary concern and if that be a pre-emptive strike against the powers that threaten her, that is fine. If we need to find some artifact that will aid in this, I am good with that as well."

OOC: Sorry, I've posted a PM to Nestor and need to wait for an answer from him before my next post.

Miroslav smiles at those gathered. " I thank you for your well wishes and support. I do agree we must do something about the Emperor and not just for the sake of vengeance. He will not rest till this thorn in is side is removed. We must make sure this thorn takes him down...just not sure how to go about this."

He looks to Oleg and says..."You will pick a crew and take Lord Dobrynya to Novgorod aboard the Heart of Oak. My son, Medved though only a lad will accompany you. Treat him like one of the crew. He is able bodied and strong but needs to learn."

Turning back to the others he says..."SO we know of the grail and the sword...what else do we have? And how will these things help defeat the Emperor? Can they stop armies and fleets?"

Oleg nods his head at the words of the new Regent of Khorsun. He looks around the room and his eyes settle on both Ulfr and Heinrich. He then elbows Falki who sits near him at the great feast table swilling mead instead of paying attention.

Falki flashes a feral grin at Oleg, pleased that he will be joining him on the voyage northward. From the frozen north he has come and to it he shall return.

Dyanna purses her lips in thought then smiles,

"To me there is only one place I can think of that might be useful in an attempt to figure this out. I have the mirror and we have been to the great library of Apollonius. I can easy open a portal to there and I am more than sure he will as gracious of a host as he was the last time we visited him. Perhaps we could bring him some gifts?"

"Such a mirror is of certain a valuable relic," notes A'kos.  "But in your own lore, Miro...er, Milord, isn't there a horn that summons great hordes?"

Loukas nods at Miroslav's words, "Yes. I agree. I was not 'laughing' at your suggestion that we obtain Excalibur or Balthazar's that we pursue the Holy Grail, A'kos. My concern is that I don't see how either the sword of the cup will help us against the Emperor. They will doubtless lead to great adventures, but we are no longer mere adventurers my friends.

"We have consistently foiled the schemes of one of the greatest powers on Earth and this latest embarrassment will make him look weak before his nobles and other states, like Persia, for example. John will have to focus some attention upon us sooner rather than later, so the matter is not simply one of keeping our adopted home safe, but of protecting ourselves from his next move.

"After all, what enabled us to defeat him this time? Magic. Not only Balthazar and Dyanna's, but the various magical devices you both have. Do you not think that he  will not be made aware of this? The next time we find ourselves confronted by him his forces, whatever or whomever they are, shall be prepared.

"Your suggestion of a horn, A'kos, seems to me to be potentially more useful. If you can describe it, perhaps we might better come up with more information about it whether we visit Apollonius as Dyanna suggests or not.

"Ultimately, however, it seems to me that we need to not only be prepared to defeat him in the next battle, but remove him entirely. I know that is a bold statement, but until he is removed from the scene we shall not have the freedom to pursue our own desires as Balthazar would like to be able to do. What's more, once we succeed, we need to make sure that whomever sits on the throne next has either no ill will towards us or is so busy that he can not pursue John's campaign against us. This would not only serve our needs, but those of the Knyaz as well."

"The Persians are then your key," replied A'kos with a shrug, shifting his attention to the strategy being suggested.  "If they are engaged with Byzantium, the Emporer will have to turn his attention in that direction."

He pauses, adds, "I say this not in terms of alliances, for such are weak things, and prone to misunderstandings and betrayals.  But if we can somehow trick either side into attacking the other, then, for a time at least, we can search out some 'useful' item to execute the overthrow of the throne."

"If this plan is not useful in and of itself, still it provides a framework for those of you with greater intellect to form a plan built around intrigue and illusion."

He sips his wine, his unusually sober eyes staring out at the rest of them.

"We don't need to stop armies and fleets - at least I hope not.  We just use Dyanna's mirror to enter his private chambers and take him out.  It might be easier to execute that plan with Excalibur and the Grail, but honestly we could probably do this now."

In reply to Balthazar the Hedonite (msg # 237):

Loukas nods appreciatively at A'kos's comments. "Good point. This also makes me realize that we are certainly able to pull much of this off we know little about these politics."

To Balthazar he responds, "We know the sword will make its bearer King of a distant land and cut a swath through his enemies. What does the Cup do?  It is a healing device of some sort, no?

"Do you know anything of the Emperor's magical resources? Knowing whom his Court Wizard is might give us some sense of his defenses. I mean, how likely is it that he knows what has happened here and that we used the Mirror to such great effect?"

"Agreed - let's find out everything we can about the Emperor and his inner circle.  Knowing the players involved will dictate our strategy.  If we are facing powerful magical opponents, we must consider the temptation to remove the ring from the cleric we captured in the fleet battle earlier.  It is a ring of spell turning; could be very useful.  On the other hand, the cleric himself seemed to be a pious man who happened to be working for the wrong side."

"Such is the fate of most who fall outside of the inner circle," remarked A'kos.  "Oft it seems that one must lose scruples in order to reach the highest levels of leadership.  If one must destroy one's comrades, what use of such ambition...no, the steppe for me.  But first Byzantium falls..."

A'kos takes a deep draught of his wine, and leans against Jaleh's shoulder.

"What are your thoughts, little temptress?"

Dyanna lets a pout flash across her lovely face and says,

"So no interest in visiting the library again? Ah well, in the future perhaps."

Her expression changes as it often does when talking about the mirror as she says enthusiastically,

"We most surely can attempt to scry the Emperor through the mirror. Surely his magical resources will be far above our own though. We must take care with this. This man in the inheritor of the glory of Rome, he will not be left unprotected."

"I've not much use for libraries," says A'kos, studying the Spartan with a keen glance and careful to keep his tone neutral.  "You might find the books there useful, however."

Jaleh gives A'Kos a sidelong glance and mutters "Little temptress, ha!" She yawns and stretches and says, "I feel less than spectacular today. I killed the Khan, don't make me do everything."

Miroslav laughs at Jaleh's humor then orders a cart to be rolled into the room. He stands before it and says..."Here lies the choice loot taken from the Pecheneg horde. Dobrynya had his men working on it all night. They have cataloged each piece.

There was gold as well, we have divided that up evening between all the troops, it does not add up to much on 75 gold coin each but at least it is good to be able to pay those who fight for their city."

On the cart lay armor, weapons and misc items of quality:

ring spell turning to Balthazar
brooch of shielding To Balthazar
cloak of protection +1 "to Dyanna
incense of meditation
periapt of proof against poison
tome of understanding to Loukas
potion of diminuation


splint mail +3
2 leather armor +2
shield +2
2 studded leather+2
studded +3 To Heinrich
mail +2
mail +3 To Ulfr
splint mail +1
scale mail +2


scimitar +2
24 arrows +2 To Heinrich
dagger +2
2 spear +2 1 to A'Kos
hammer +2 To Radvila
hammer of thunderbolts
dagger of venom To Heinrich
battle axe +2 To Ulfr
hand axe +2
long sword +3 frostbrand
sword +5 To Oleg
This message was last edited by the player at 03:07, Thu 01 Nov 2012.

Loukas also laughs at Jaleh's comment. The stuff in the cart is an impressive haul. "For my part I have no interest in the arms or armor. The other items, though..." A slight grin of avarice crosses his face, "This are very interesting. As we did at the Library I put my interests in order:

1. tome of understanding
2. ring spell turning
3. periapt of proof against poison
4. brooch of shielding
5. cloak of protection +1
6. potion of diminuation
7. incense of meditation

"I am happy to negotiate this process or have Miroslav moderate it as he did back then. We all have earned our share here and I would not have bad feelings come from this."

"I've armor enough...and though the swords are tempting, I am honor bound to wield Frost's Bite.  I have noted the two spears, however.  I would claim one, at least, for myself."

"As to the rest, something that may add to my defense in battle would be welcome.  Other than that, I've no interest in baubles and tomes."
He gives further consideration, turns and whispers something to Jaleh.


Looking up at the others he finishes, "Sell off the rest for a booty in gold and jewels - or maybe, Miro, you would favor some among your soldiers the arms and armor for deeds well done on the field of battle."

"Here's what I'm thinking.  If one of you has a free hand for a magical ring, I'd like to give you my ring of spell storing.  You'll be able to cast the spells stored in it, giving us another backup spellcaster in the party.  I can replenish the spells during downtime.  It has:

Ring of Spell Storing:
1st) magic missile, sleep
2nd) invisibility, stinking cloud
3rd) dispel magic"

OOC: So yeah, the ring turns anyone into a caster.  5 segment casting time across the board, will be cast at Balthazar's level.

"Then, I'd like to gear up to be ready to do battle with an opposing caster.  The best item in the loot to do that is the ring of spell turning.  The other is the brooch of shielding."

"The only other items I am interested in are the magic arrows, but you can see that even in that mass melee we just had, I didn't actually get around to using my bow."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:52, Sun 21 Oct 2012.

Loukas listens to Balthazar's offer with interest, "What you say makes sense, my friend. I am happy to pass on the Ring of Spell Turning and the Broach. I have access to Druidic magic, so I would suggest somebody else should take the Ring of Spell Storing."

"I would think such a bauble would make you that much more powerful," noted A'kos.  "I will be too embroiled in hand to hand to recall such powers."

"Perhaps Dyanna, if not you, Loukas."

"Actually, I think giving Jaleh the ability to make herself invisible and put the guards to sleep through that ring might make her the best candidate.  Just pointing that out, but leaving it up to you all."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:04, Mon 22 Oct 2012.

"I agree with Balthazar. Jaleh, this ring will give you even greater flexibility in future missions."

"Greater flexibility," murmurs A'kos.  "I approve of that message..."

Loukas laughs and rolls his eyes at A'kos, "Of course, you do."

Amused at his own witticism and basking in the pleasure of companionship A'kos is well content to allow others to plan.  He would lead when the moment called for it - for the nonce there was wine and a fine woman to enjoy.

Leaning back he kissed her lightly upon her shoulder, a proud smile adorning his face.

Heinrich looks over the captured items, a low whistle coming from his lips. <DarkGreen>"Quite a haul. They had a wide range of ...enhanced.. goods.  Some of the armor and hand weapons would be a vast improvement over what I am using now.  You all definitely move in interesting circles. <DarkGreen>

He leans back, trying to assimilate all the plans going on around him.

Miroslav, the new Regent of Khorsun, smiles and says..."We have danced this dance before my friends. And as before I will settle this."

He tosses one of the fine spears to A'kos and says..."May it serve you well."

To Loukas he hands the tome..."You are already wise beyond your years, at times, may this serve you well."

To the Hedonite he hands the broach and the ring that will turn a spell away. "Your plan is sound...these will help in the case of a magical foe, as I fear may be the case when dealing with the emperor."

He hands the finest set of studded leather armor (+3) and the quiver of arrows to Heinrich saying..."When you sail north with Oleg and Dobrynya, these will come in handy for sure, protect Lord Dobrynya and the Heart of Oak!"

To Ulfr he hands the finest set of mail (+3) and the Battle axe saying..."Like Heinrich, you're to sail north. I trust you to do your best."

He looks at the rest of the loot and say..."A few items have not been doled out yet...I will wait ti hear from some of the others and for some suggestions on how they best can be used before settling on the suggestion of selling them to the merchants of Khorsun."

Loukas grins as he excepts the tome, "I thank you, Regent. We of Veles will bless the negotiations over these goods as we do all such deals."

Leaning back he takes another sip of mead and wonders aloud, "I hope you're right about my wisdom, my Captain and Regent..

Dobrynya, who had been watching the events unfold stands and raises a hand saying..."I would like to introduce some of you to a man who has come to be a great friend over the past months you have all been gone from our city."

He lets his hand trail towards a man who stands in the distance..."This is Thorn. My plan was to take his to Novgorod with me but upon further thought I would feel better leaving him here. His advice has been invaluable. He is far far from home but let him bend your ear."

A'kos stows the spear, and watches the proceedings stoically.

With a smile Thorn turned to Dobryna and nodded his head in deference. He was a pleasantly-appearing man with a relaxed and easy manner, which was a sure sign that trouble tended to follow him around. A mandolin was slung over one shoulder.

"Your Grace is too kind, too kind by far. In truth, the depth of your kindness is only matched by the depth of your beard."

It was the sort of joke that could have most people executed on the spot, but Thorn had earned Dobryna's friendship the hard way, and knew his jest would well received. He now looked to each of his prospective new companions in turn, exuding warmth and openness.

"Greetings and salutations, friends! I am honoured to make your acquaintance. I am Thorn ~ bard, soldier, rogue, thespian, occasional jade merchant, regaler of fables, and opportunist. Although I may actually have some actual use beyond that. If you would have me in your merry troupe, I would consider myself most fortunate."

Thorn took his mandolin from his shoulder and thrummed it gently, and briefly.

"Perhaps a song is in order..."

Loukas turns to Thorn expectantly with Dobrynya's introduction and when he makes the verbal jab at the former Regent's beard the Brother of Veles can not help but laugh aloud and make his own as he strokes his own naturally thin beard, "Aye, and on behalf of myself as a follower of the Woolly One I thank Your Lordship for growing extra!"

When Thorn begins to play he smiles and pulls out his own Gusli and strums along with his brother player.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:19, Thu 01 Nov 2012.

Dyanna smiles at the bard as he is joined by Loukas in song.

"Greetings Thorn. It is good to know you and if Lord Dobrynya speaks highly of you, I am sure we will all come to value your company."

Dyanna lets her darks eyes light upon the protective cloak lying with the loot on the table.

Miroslav nods his shaggy head in Thorns direction and smiles..."At my ...Lords suggestion, you are welcome into our fold Thorn. You will have to tell us more about your journey here while we feast."

He moves over tot he table again and hands the protective cloak to Dyanna, A dagger  to Heinrich, a heavy hammer to Radvila the worker of wood and the ultra fine longsword to Oleg saying..."As you are now the captain of the Heart of Oak, this sword shall be yours to keep and you will be charged to protect the ship with your life."

Oleg accepts both the sword and the responsibility and bows his head to the new Regent of Khorsun, Lord Miroslav.

A'kos lifts a tankard in Oleg's direction.

"Steer her well, Captain!"

He quaffs a swallow and listens to the bard and the monk play while taking in the scene around him.  He looks toward Jaleh and smiles.

"A fine feast, lass...yet you speak little tonight.  Is aught amiss, or would you care, perhaps, to retreat to our home for a less public celebration."

His tone is solicitous, and but few sitting near can hear him.

Jaleh frowns for a moment then begins to pout, "I have not been feeling well at all, perhaps I will go home, but you stay here. You are needed. I on the otherhand am not and just would rather sleep for a few days."

A'kos raises an eyebrow, says quietly, "If go you must, then go...but not without escort.  I will see you home and return."

He stands, says to Miro, "Hold the big celebration for my return - Jaleh has an ague, and I would see her home.  But I will return."

Loukas raises his glass to A'kos's toast and after the exchange between the Falcon and Jaleh a look of concern crosses his face, "Take care of yourself, Jaleh, and hurry back to us A'kos."

He settles back into his chair and continues playing his Gusli along with Thorn's Mandolin. He will await the Magyar's return before returning the conversation to their plans. Until then he intends to learn some new music.

Strumming his mandolin to the tune of "The Harlot of Aquitane", and delightedly so when Loukas joins in with his gusli, Thorn sings to the assembled celebrants with some gusto and no little flair. He follows that up with a sea shanty, "Captain Shackle's Whacking Paddles", which is perhaps a little colorful for this occasion, but hopefully it goes down well anyway.

After a song or two more he takes a seat at the table and joins in with the celebrations, though he does not over-indulge on either food or wine. But he will share something of his past.

"I have spent the last few months here, as my Lord said. Prior to that I had been in Bulgaria, where I spent some weeks after leaving Constantinople, owing to a misunderstanding concerning the twin daughters of a wealthy nobleman. It was unfortunate then, that afterwards fortune took me into the employ of a Bulgar Baron, who had a winsome daughter who was greatly enamoured of my...erm, singing...else I may have dallied there a little longer, but these events are the exception rather than the rule, I assure you."

Thorn paused, a rather dubious smile upon his face, then gulped down the rest of his wine, before pouring himself another. After another sip he relaxed, although it seemed perhaps his the joy had escaped him momentarily.

"I travelled widely prior to that, and have done ever since my sixteenth birthday, when I left Denmark. Hopefully for ever."

He took another sip of wine, stared into the distance for a time, and then seemed to gather himself. He looked around, picking up his mandolin again.

"Has anyone heard "The Cheesemaker of Upsala" before?"
This message was lightly edited by the player at 16:31, Fri 02 Nov 2012.

Miroslav shares a smile with both Dobrynya and Loukas..."I can now see whay the lord Dobrynya has kept Thorn all to himself these past months!"

He then turns once again to the table with the collected loot...he hands the incense to Zmija as well as the hand axe. He gives the periapt of proof against poison to Jaleh as she is leaving. The Hammer of Thunderbolts gets thrust into his own belt."I know there are items here that some of you are still interested in. I ask that you tell me again and we will make a final distribution of them."


 potion of diminuation to loukas

 splint mail +3
 1 leather armor +2
 shield +2 to Yaro
 2 studded leather+2 1 to Yaro and 1 to Barmak
 mail +2
 splint mail +1
 scale mail +2

 scimitar +2 to Barmak
 dagger +2
 1 spear +2 to A'Kos
 long sword +3 frostbrand To Thorn
This message was last edited by the player at 10:01, Wed 07 Nov 2012.

Loukas nods to Miroslav's comment and when the new Regent asked about the remaining goods he speaks, "I might find a use for the Potion."

It is only now Thorn becomes aware of the pile of loot spread before the collected throng. He raises an eyebrow as he peruses the booty.

"I say, you have been busy! Is this just one haul, or several, for the gods themselves would be impressed by such an array."

The bard paused a moment, absently strumming his mandolin.

"Now that looks like a fine sword," he said, innocently.

Loukas raises an eyebrow at the bard, "You do recall the huge Pecheneg army at the gates recently, don't you? Or perhaps you were distracted by the beautiful daughters of Khorsun?"

"I am well aware," shot back the bard, grinning. "And someone had to protect those beauteous maidens - I did so...with great purpose and attention!"

"In that case you will understand whence all of this stuff comes and certainly deserve a sword for you efforts in the defense of Khorsun's daughters!"

ooc: A'kos will take the other spear if no one else is willing.  Short post I know.  Headache.  Off to bed.

Miroslav nods and hands the potion to Loukas and the second spear to A'Kos. He gives a fine suit of studded leather to both Barmak and the Captian of the archers, Yaro. He also gives Yaro the shield and Barmak the scimitar. To Thorn he hands the frostbrand and says with a smile...."But who protects our ladies from you?"

"The rest will go in the armoury. We will have use for them soon enough if the Emperor has any say in the matter.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:07, Wed 07 Nov 2012.

Zmija leans back against a feast table and asks..."So the plan now is to use the mirror to gather information about John...yes?"

With a deep bow Thorn accepts the frostbrand from Miroslav, and he is smiling when he straightens.

"You are too kind, milord. As to the ladies...let's say our relationships are mutually beneficial, and leave it at that!"

Loukas smiles at Thorn's response to Miroslav, but when Zmija speak his becomes attentive and he glances at Dyanna and Balthazar, "Yes. It seems to me that at some point soon our enemies are going to realize that we are using magic rather effectively and may move to defend themselves against it to whatever extent they are able."

Dyanna purses her lips again as she seems lost in thought, she then smiles and speaks,
"I would suggest that we set the mirror up in a safe place, possibly the Regents household or event he lab that Balthazar and I have been using for magical research. Regardless we best make sure that whoever is manning the mirror is well versed in it's use. We also much make sure that we can realize when and if our scrying has been compromised. I am far for the greatest illusionist but I do know there are ways to know if one is being scryed and ways to block it as well."

She drinks deeply from her goblet of wine and continues,
"I suggest that when we finish here that we go set up the mirror and begin right away, before John even has a chance to learn all of what has just transpired here."

"Your lab sounds ideal for this...and you a e correct, for now the Emperor will not know the recent events. If we can learn something we may be able to get the drop on him while he basks in the idea of our destruction. But then again he may already know."

"Very well then. I will go prepare both the lab and the mirror."

Dyanna bows before the Lord Dobrynya and says,
"I wish you safe passage my Lord."

A'kos walks Jaleh back to the manor, considers staying, but makes his way back to the dinner in time to hear Dyanna speak of the lab.  Enlivened with a sense of wonder, he is curious enough to overcome his natural inclinations against mages and their sort, so will quietly join them to watch, silently, as she and Balthazar do their work.