The next morning finds you well rested, if a bit chilled, with the food running low, just enough for a nourishing, if somewhat meager, breakfast.

A light frost covers the ground, and a cold wind blows at your backs as you head south across the plains.

Late in the day, you find tracks in the grass which Jaxar interprets as coming from a large pack of Beastmen.  They are over a day old, and also heading south.

The food has also run out at this point.

In reply to GM (msg #1):

*Fearing the threat of the whole group suffering from lack of food, Kar begins looking in earnest for the best possible hunting areas along the way. Even vermin can be used as a source of protein.*

In reply to Kar (msg #2):

Mirna is keeping her bow ready, for defense or hunting.

Traveling south across the plains, Kar spots a small herd of durge ahead, although perhaps a half-mile to the west of your intended path.

They would be relatively easy to hunt, if you are so inclined, although it is likely that bringing one down and butchering it would take up the remainder of the day.

In reply to GM (msg #4):

"We need food. Any objections?"

In reply to GM (msg #4):

Jaxar will hunt as well. He will also utilize his survival skills to further enhance the party's endeavors.

"Once we have taken the beast down and butchered it, dare we light a fire to cook the meat?"

In reply to Rioniv (msg #7):

"It may sound excessive, but if we take down two, and leave one a bit away from our own activity, it would draw attention from us. Why approach an armed group when there is a free fresh kill available?"

In reply to Rioniv (msg #7):

((OOC: I assume it's still daylight?))

"A small fire shouldn't be too large a beacon. With the second durge down, it should distract anyone who isn't specifically after us"

Mirna will look for a hollow where the fire can be as sheltered (visibility wise) as possible.

[OOC:  It is still daylight.  Finding and getting to the durge was a mid to late morning job.]

While large and sturdy, the durge are extremely slow and easy prey for the professional hunter.  Bringing down two of them, some distance away from one another, is a relatively easy, if time consuming task.

Mirna searches about, and identifies a spot for a fire.  Jaxar scents the wind and recommends a different spot, which is agreed upon after some discussion.  It takes some trying, and a lot of work to keep it going, but you are able to keep up a fire built from twisted dry grasses, there being no trees or wood in the vicinity.

Butchering the durge and preserving the meat takes you through the afternoon, but at the end of the day, with some searching about for herbs and edible plants on the plains, you're able to come away with a week's lean rations.

A pack of dracs shows up at one point, but quickly decide to go after the other dead durge.  Later in the afternoon, Kar spots an Omnivrax, which scatters the dracs until it has eaten its fill, then wanders away, leaving the dracs to their feast once again.

So the day passes, and a good campsite is agreed upon, several miles from where the kill was made, everyone's packs, and the two greymanes loaded with meat from the durge.

The night passes uneventfully, the only wildlife seen being of the smaller and non-threatening variety.

In reply to GM (msg #10):

*Looking around the plains as camp is made* "I feel a bit...exposed here. can we post more than one watch, or would that be stretching us a bit thin overnight?" *accepts watch conditions, but sleeps light*

Newly provisioned, you are able to travel on by foot to the south.  The morning of the 27th dawns cool and frosty, but the winds decrease a bit and the day warms somewhat.

Travel on foot is slow, but inexorable, as the suns rise to their apex, and then begin their descent.  The rich grasses of the plains provide plentiful fodder for the graymanes.

As night comes once more, all is seemingly quiet and at peace.  During the early hours just before dawn, a cold rain begins to fall, lasting nearly to noon, and making for cold, miserable travel.

As the day wears on, the weather clears, although it stays cold and the following morning dawns with frost on the tall grasses.

Travel during the day is better, with the weather drier, if cold.

Nothing of particular concern is encountered during the day, and you are all able to stop and partake of a noon time meal, and get some rest, and allow the graymanes to graze.

An hour into the afternoon's travel, Kar and Jaxar's sharp eyes spy carrion birds circling something on the ground ahead, and somewhat to the left.

In reply to GM (msg #13):

To Kar and Jaxar: "Can you tell us anything about what they're circling? Or shall we go find out for ourselves?"

In reply to Mirna (msg #14):


Barring additional information from the GM Jaxar would reply as follows . . . .

"Although it is most likely a carcass, we should investigate. I would recommend Kar take an initial survey, being careful to avoid a potential ambush. Based on his observations we can decide the best way to approach and investigate. I only hope it isn't one of our companions from the windship."

Moving in closer, Jaxar is able to see the carrion avir are flocking around something on the ground, which appears to be several humanoids.  Kar sees this from the air as well.

Additionally, 50-60 feet away is something larger, though it is hard to determine what -- perhaps the remains of a small structure, or an overturned wagon or carts.  Not far from this is another humanoid standing and moving!

You are still quite some ways off, so details are quite difficult to make out.

In reply to GM (msg #16):

Growling, Jaxar alerts the party as he begins to lope toward the lone figure. "The scavengers were attracted by humanoid bodies, although I can't make out what race they were. There is a lone figure moving, as well, possibly a survivor or a looter. I intend to find out which." As he knocks an arrow he looks over his shoulder at his Danuvian companion, "Coming Mirna?"

In reply to GM (msg #16):

*Drifts a bit closer for a better look, crossbow at the ready*

In reply to Jaxar (msg #17):

"Of course!"

Mirna will also have an arrow nocked and her longsword loose in the scabbard.

Jaxar and Mirna break into a trot, quickly closing the distance towards what appears to be a devastated caravan, as Kar effortlessly glides in closer above them as well.

To one side of the ruined caravan is the lone figure, garbed in white, apparently of the races of man, while to the other side lay a pile of dead, furred humanoids, apparently Beastmen.  It is above these that carrion avir flutter, and some opportunistic dracs feed.

In reply to GM (msg #20):

Mirna will motion to Jaxar that we should slowly move in on the lone figure in white, spaced well apart.

As you slow your pace, getting closer, the lone figure briefly stops, stands up straighter and waves in your direction... then curiously enough, bends back to whatever task it is that preoccupies him, though still facing in your direction.

[OOC:  Please indicate how close you intend to get, and what actions you might plan to take.  While approaching, or when getting as close as you'd like.]

In reply to GM (msg #22):

[ooc: that depends...did he/she seem to notice me up here?]

In reply to GM (msg #22):

Jaxar will make sure not to look up at Kar as he approaches. He will initially approach to about 20 ft. from the man(?) with arrow nocked and partially drawn but clearly not aimed directly at the figure. Jaxar will stay beyond melee weapon range and avoid the possibility of straying into Mirna's crossfire. If possible, Jaxar will glance at the beastman corpses in an effort to determine the cause of death, be it by weapon or spell, and then inspect the lone figure carefully.

"Greeting traveller, you appear to be more fortunate than your aquaintences here", Jaxar calls out as he indicates the beastmen with a nod of his head, "do you know what befell these animals?"

In reply to Jaxar (msg #24):

The figure in white lifts a hand to his wide-brimmed hat, tipping it slightly in acknowledgement.

"I do indeed have some thoughts as regards the slaughter of those beasts. They are the part and parcel of the same Pack that slaughtered this band of pilgrims." He indicates the dusty work around him - small graves, some covered with piles of local stone heaped into a number of small cairns covered hastily with some scattered soil, some obviously larger than others.

"They were a bit overdue coming in to town. Found them here just this morn. Wouldn't be adverse to a helping hand or two. But if you and your compatriots mean more death and destruction, I'd offer that you be on your way. Aa's eye watches all, and His mighty hand guides me."

Astute watchers will notice a Staff of the All-Seeing Eye casually leaning on the pile of stones nearest the stranger within easy reach of his currently empty and dirty hands.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:51, Thu 22 Apr 2010.

In reply to Aalistair (msg #25):

"Death and destruction, perhaps, but not to one who aids the wounded and honors the dead." Mirna will lower her bow, but keep it ready in case any of the scavengers get... overly curious :)

In reply to Mirna (msg #26):

"I fear the Pack left no wounded. But perhaps, Aa willing, your ... aahh, compatriot," he adds in a questioning tone, "above can keep a watch? The Pack that did this was sizable. It would not be unusual for the weaker survivors to double back to scavenge or feed."

He dusts his dirty hands against his white-stained garb and bends to lift another rock into place, concealing a body buried beneath.

"We didn't see the Pack from town. There's a momentary pause, as if he's considering exactly how much to say.  "Is that where you are journeying? Towards Deadwood?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:43, Thu 22 Apr 2010.

<quote Aalistair>
In reply to Jaxar (msg #24):

The figure in white lifts a hand to his wide-brimmed hat, tipping it slightly in acknowledgement.

*glides to around 40 ft and circles*

He indicates the dusty work around him - small graves, some covered with piles of local stone heaped into a number of small cairns covered hastily with some scattered soil, some obviously larger than others.

*Begins to watch for... other... scavengers which might be attracted to such carnage while watching the man in white*

As the conversation takes place, the remaining members of the party approach, two Marukans and a blue-clad Rahastran, leading two heavily burdened graymanes.

"Well met and salutations," Aalistair calls to the Marukans as they approach. He then turns his back on the group of them and kneels to start piling rocks onto another body.

"You strangers seem a bit out of place. Rather, I mean to say, you appear to be a motley sort of crew. Many around these parts journey with their countrymen. Where did you say the group of you were from again?"

In reply to Aalistair (msg #30):

((OOC: I forgot where we're from, so I'm guessing! Or, re-writing history...))

"Busy place, this Deadwood of yours. As for where we're from... well, the easy answer is Cymril."

In reply to Mirna (msg #31):

Aalistair watches as she speaks. The look in his eyes one of... what is it? Curiosity? Earnestness?

"Well now, madame, there's busy and then there's busy. I don't imagine a dusty frontier-town can compare with..." the pause is a bit out of place and he swallows, "with Cymril."

"Now, come, sister. Put down your weapons and help me bury the noble dead. Aa is waiting for them, as he waits for us all."

In reply to Aalistair (msg #32):

Jaxar will put down his bow, keeping it close at hand, and begin to bury a body in the same mannner as the aamanian - strange as it may be to his own sensibilities.

Eyeng the grizzled veteran suspiciously Jaxar adds to Mirna's response. "As you have suggested, individually we are from many places. Most of us joined together at a rural outpost outside of Cymril, each in search of adventure, a change in scenery, or at least better prospects that pulling guard duty in a remote corner of nowhere."

After looking over his companions for a moment he adds, "Travel has been difficult of late and our remaining steeds are overburdened. We thought we saw a windship in the area a few days back and were hoping to take passage if she could afford us the space. Would there happen to be a ship in Deadwood at this time?"

The Aamanian pauses for a moment as if thinking.

"A ship, you say? In truth, I do not truly know. Deadwood has a docking platform. And before I set out to find this...," he pauses and sighs. "There was a windship that passed town, heading south. I cannot claim to know much about such vessels, but it seemed a bit unsteady in the air although it moved quite rapidly." He gives a slight shrug. "It may be that the Cymrilian tower in Deadwood would be able to tell you more, or arrange for passage back to the Kingdoms. Couldn't say for certain. But you know, there are folks out here, on these plains and hills, that need a helping hand, a kind word, an extra eye. Just... keep that in mind."

"Perhaps more hands would make lighter work."  The Marukan steps forward, nods to the Aamanian.  "Greetings, I'm called Rioniv," he nods to his fellow Marukan, "and this is Rammid.  How are you called?"

<quote Rioniv>
  The Marukan steps forward, nods to the Aamanian.

he nods to his fellow Marukan,



Kar Continues to keep a eye on things from above, but moves up another 10 ft. and widens his circle a bit. Having one more pair of hands down there won't help as much as an early warning.

In reply to Rioniv (msg #35):

"And I am known as Aalistair. It is a pleasure, of that I am certain."

In reply to Aalistair (msg #37):

"I am Mirna," Mirna says setting down her bow, within easy reach, and starting to help bury the dead. "When we are done burying these, we should burn the beastmen. No sense attracting more scavengers."

In reply to Mirna (msg #38):

"Aye. Burning. The smoke might attract other things. We would want to be sure that the flames do not spread across the Plains as well. But, aye. Burning. They are out of Aa's sight and grace."

In reply to Aalistair (msg #39):

"Rrrrrrrr - let the scavengers fill their bellies on this filth, they need to eat, too. Besides, this would allow Beastmen serve at least one good purpose. Two, if enough of them remain to fertilize the soil when the scavengers have finished."

In reply to Jaxar (msg #40):

Aalistair shrugs and returns to the task of burying the dead.

"So... quiet conversation always makes unpleasant tasks go quicker. What story do the lot of you carry with you?"

Piling stones nearby, Rammid starts, "We had set out from Maruk, Rioniv"  -- he points towards the other Marukan, "Athellin,"  he indicates the Rahastran, "and I.  And one other," his eyes drop, and his voice to a small degree.  He clears his throat, and continues, "We traveled down the road, and came to Akmir -- that's where we first met the others, and things got strange."  He looks around at his companions.

In reply to Rammid (msg #42):

Akmir and strange do oft rest at the same oasis. At least, so I have heard it said. Go on.

Rammid glances about at the others; Mirna, Jaxar, Rioniv, then Athellin.  He hesitates, and then continues, "We took passage on a windship then; or rather, I should say, worked passage on a windship.  We traveled far and wide, and most recently we've returned to travel on foot.  From investigating a ruined city to the north of here.  We find ourselves somewhat short of supplies, so we are seeking the nearest town to regroup." 

Rammid falls silent, returning to building the graves at hand, still looking at the others of his party from time to time.

In reply to GM (msg #45):

*Winging down to within vocal range of the group* "We have company. solo furry. I'll get more info, but be alert"

*Then he widens his arc to get a better view of said company*

Aalistair stares at Jaxar for a moment and pauses as if about to speak, but the cry from the winged Gryph, he snatched up his staff and started scanning the horizon.


"Are the group of you capable of defending yourselves? Do any of you need Aa's protective hand upon your brow?"

In reply to Aalistair (msg #47):

Mirna chuckles "I can defend myself" she grabs her bow and nocks an arrow, watching Kar for some indication of where the "company" is coming from.

Seeing figures in the distance J'landria hunkers down a bit to observe.  Cursing the winds for pushing her scent toward them instead of theirs to her she moves forward cautiously.  The tall grasses and slight hills occassionally put the figures on the ground out of sight, but the large avir-like one keeps edging a little closer.  J'landria watches it with worry, but she plucks her courage up and keeps moving.  Maybe, just maybe this is a trading group, or someone she can ask directions of.

Watching the group and the avir in the sky, she wishes she had a small bird herself, but she keeps padding toward the group, her hand on her longsword and her senses at their highest.

In reply to Aalistair (msg #47):

Absently touching his talisman he eyes the grizzled veteran suspiciously with a low growl in his throat, "Rrrrr, we can handle ourselves. I can't speak for the others but I've no need of your god's . . . touch." Readying his bow, Jaxar takes a few steps away from the gathered adventurers and sniffs the wind.


Glancing over his shoulder he speaks to Aalistair again. "We have met before, witch-hunter. It was several years ago, we happened to be hunting the same Dhuna, although I suspect for somewhat different reasons." Finishing abruptly, he turns back to the front and again samples the scents carried on the available breeze and scanning the terrain for movement or the glint of sunlight reflecting off of metal.

Muttering a prayer to Aa half-under his breath, Aalistair took a moment and then shouted

"You there! Be ye friend or foe, show yourself! Prove your intentions be they noble or crude!"

He gripped his staff tighter, turning slowly to determine where the danger might lie.

Hearing the shout, J'landria stops in her progression for a moment and stares toward the voice.  Lifting her own young voice she calls out in return.

"I'm only foe if you're planning on doing something to hurt me... Uhh.. I'm seeking either a Jaka, or an orgovian named Ordavu el-Shemu."

Then, slowly she began moving back in the general direction of the group, her nose lifted, sniffing the wind and hoping for small gust in her direction.

Aalistair looks about the group, raising an eyebrow as he looks at Jaxar. In a quieter voice he says, "Aa moves us all in mysterious ways. Perhaps this one seeks you? In any case, el-Shemu is a trader who frequents Deadwood. I think he may have been there before I set out. Should we call this one closer, do you think?"

He relaxed his grip on his staff a touch and rose from the crouch he was in. Standing tall and erect, he waited.

In reply to J'landria (msg #52):

Mirna relaxes some, but keeps her bow ready.

"The name el-Shemu is not unknown to me. Last I saw, he was in the town of Deadwood... about a day's ride south of here. If you wish to travel together to avoid the dangers of the Plains, we likely would not be amiss to such a pairing," Aalistair shouts.

"Besides, better to know who this is than to have some skulker hounding our trip back," he says more quietly to those nearby.

In reply to J'landria (msg #52):

After pausing a moment to hear if Aalistair's questions will receive a response Jaxar will add, "You have named the orgovian you seek, Ordavu el-Shemu, but what of the Jaka? What is the name of this one that you seek?"

Approaching the group closer now, her very young age is evident.  She smiles nervously an bows slightly as she gets closer.  Staring at Jaxar she traces her finger down her face where his scar sits.

"You are Jaxar, are you not," she asks, awe in her voice.  "My father spoke of you.  Not often, but enough to remind me of who you were if I were to run into you out here."  She pauses, looking at the group around her and smiles anxiously again.
"Sorry for my bad manners.  I am J'landria.  I seek a lost cub.  His parents and some of the others think he ran away to find adventure, but my father and I agree that he might have been kidnapped.  He is only about 8 or 9, so the rebellion is setting in.  I..." she begins but stops.  She stares around at the group again and takes a few steps back from them and drops her eyes.  Her ears are moving but not much as she stands still.

"Again, sorry.  You do not need to hear my problems or that of my people.  I will accept your offer to finish traveling with you to the town of Deadwood if the offer is still open."  Her voice is quiet now, and her eyes are still averted.  She glances up for a moment and takes in the whole scene.  She then remembers to relax, letting her hand slip off the hilt of her sword.
"Can I help in any way," she asks finally, her voice even quieter than before.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:47, Thu 06 May 2010.

<quote J'landria>
Approaching the group closer now, her very young age is evident.  She smiles nervously an bows slightly as she gets closer.  Staring at Jaxar she traces her finger down her face where his scar sits.

*Closing to a tighter cirlce, still some 20 ft up*

 she begins but stops.  She stares around at the group again and takes a few steps back from them and drops her eyes.  Her ears are moving but not much as she stands still.

*Trains his xbow on her chest*

  She glances up for a moment and takes in the whole scene.  She then remembers to relax, letting her hand slip off the hilt of her sword.

*Still following her, xbow ready, but not trained as before*

"A lost child, you say. Well, Aa has certainly guided your steps thus far. Perhaps we can all help one another. I am certain that with his guiding hand we can find this lost child you seek.

We can travel to town here soon. Perhaps, once our work here is done, we can set up a small camp, rest for the night, and then be on our way come morning."

In reply to J'landria (msg #57):

As his ears briefly flatten against his head, Jaxar looks extremely ill-at-ease when J'landria uses his name and traces the scar he bears. He continues to look uncomfortable at the obvious awe in the young Jaka's voice.

After a moment he shakes off his discomfort and querries J'landria about the missing cub. "I would ask about your father at a later time if I may. For now, tell me about the missing cub and why you think he may have been kidnapped, as opposed to acting the rebellious fool." Taking a moment to try to signal Kar to join them on the ground he then continues, "And what leads you to believe he may be in this area? Does this el-Shemu figure into this somehow?"

She looks up when Jaxar addresses her and bears a pained expression.  She looks around at all the others who stand watching and listening.  When her eyes land on Jaxar's vexed expression she flinches slightly and sighs.

"It is all one telling.  My father is one of the Forest Lords, he remembers you from when you were a cub yourself," she lifts up a small talisman and flashes it.  "He has been hearing rumors, not just this cub has gone missing.  Many, but over the span of years.  He fears that we..." she pauses then and looks around.  After a moment she seems to steel herself to the idea of what she has to say.
"We feel that the experiments might have been started again.  There were tales of wizards back before the breaking experimenting on Jaka to see why we can sense them.  These wizards wrote a book, but it was destroyed.  Father spoke to some people, one of who was a Xambrian and from that he came with the notion that it was the Toquaran Necromancers back out to discover the knowledge that was lost.  I am out to find the truth of the kidnapped cub.  It could just be a bold slaver, or it could be something worse," she shakes her head, the hair rising on the back of her neck.  For a moment she snarls, her shiny white teeth bared.  "Forest Lords and Pride Mistresses do not leave the forests lightly.  I may be young, but I carry a mission of great import.  Plus, I need to remind those who have strayed from the protection of the trees what the teachings are, for they are not home to get them."
When she finishes speaking, her demeanor has changed, she is standing straight and tall, the posture and expression of someone twice or even thrice her age.  She looks around at the group for a moment and nods.
"What needs to be done here so we can set up camp," she asks.

"Well, young miss. We'll be needing a clear site, away from all of this. And possibly some fresh water or game. Though I doubt we'll find much of either at the moment. But, still, a place where all of us can gather and be safe would not be amiss."

Aalistair speaks softly, comfortingly. He has seen loss in his years, though it has not been his own.

J'landria nods and mutters a prayer to Jakar.
(( J'landria rolled 4 using 1d20. casting "Locate Prey". ))
After the prayer finishes, she takes a long deep breath and begins to peer around, as if looking for simple signs of prey that was near by.
(( J'landria rolled 13 using 1d20+8. to find traces of prey. ))  She unloads her arms and taking her bow and arrows she stalks off to see what she can find to feed the party.

It takes some time, and there is little game in the area, most of it apparently scared away by the carnage or the collection of carrion eaters nearby.

In the course of the afternoon, the remainder of the dead are buried, and traveling a short distance, a small, fresh spring is found.

[OOC:  Feel free to have any conversations in camp or along the way, as you wish]

Aalistair brushes his forehead with a grimy hand leaving a slight trail of dirt and dust in the sweat of his brow.

"Well, I certainly want to a hearty thank you to each and every one of you folks. Care and reverence for the dead are marks of civilization, and civilization is often hard to come by out here on the Plains. We won't make Deadwood til tomorrow, but I'll be glad to back any of you folks with a kind word or a reference should you need any."
He pauses, taking a moment to look back at the field of graves.
"And, though it might not be entirely appropriate, nor fully welcomed, I hearby witness your deeds and goodness and nominate you for the receipt of aalms." He raises one hand in benediction, lowering his chin to his chest and closing his eyes for a moment. "Though the people we left behind were not your countrymen nor your kin, you showed them the respect and reverence due to the followers of Aa, and that shall not be forgotten."

J'landria shakes her head as she walks with the others toward the new camp, carrying what little game could be found.  Kicking at the ground looking for something to burn and picking up what is to be had and tucking it with what she had gathered earlier in her travels.

"I appreciate you letting me walk back to Deadwood with you," she says after a while.  "It probably would have taken me longer to do it on my own.  I do not know this area well and I have been wandering it for a few days already."

"Friendly faces are few enough out here.  Perhaps we might all find some common ground.  Certainly, all of us here appear to share the immediate common goal of reaching Deadwood."  Rioniv smiles gently at J'landria.

In reply to J'landria (msg #66):

Jaxar keeps to himself through the day, but continues to contemplate J'landria and the news she has brought.

J'landria looks at the Marukan for a moment, her face very still.  Then she returns his smile with her lips closed over her teeth.
"May I then ask what your purpose is," she asks as gently as possible with her growling voice.  "I did tell you the... reason.. that I have traveled so far from home."  Her mannerisms speak of gentle friendly words, but her voice is harsh.  She sighs and her ears flatten in annoyance and she growls low in her throat.
"Excuse me," she rumbles.  "At times speaking pleasantly to... others can be difficult.  Pardon my tone, it does not convey my emotion currently."

In reply to J'landria (msg #69):

Mirna laughs "We seek glory, of course. A chance to make our names and prove our worth!"

The grizzled old Aamanian shook his head gently at the Danuvian's words. "Spoken well from the blush of youth. Glory can be found all around you, should you but open your eyes to look for it." He sighs and looks back to the graves so recently laid. "Aaluum, well known for his skills, led that band. When I found his body it was laid round with the bodies of many Beastmen, their bodies crushed and rent by the powerful blows of his mace. Was this glory? Or was it in the faint pale Aafodils I found growing, unharmed by the struggle, upon the hill nearby?" He looks back towards the group.
"Your name was already created for you, chosen by your people. And... as to your worth. That is something you can set out to prove, I suppose. So it is among my people where their every action is Monitored and recorded, its worthiness measured and remarked." His words do not seem proud, but perhaps carry a hint of tired resignation.

In reply to Aalistair (msg #71):

"Youth?" Mirna laughs, "I do not believe our paths are laid before us, but are for us to make on our own. As for glory, how else does one achieve immortality? I would have my stories told to the young warriors until the Suns burn to ash."

Rioniv smiles very slightly, perhaps with a bit of sadness, at J'landria.  "If you had a chance to visit my home, you would understand why we Marukans are here.  If you would truly like, one day, I will show you."

J'landria stares at the Marukan for a long and awkward moment, then she nods.
"I think it would be a good lesson for myself to see the way others live," she says finally.  "And to see the reasons they choose to leave.  When my immediate task is complete, or on the way if possible, I will accompany you to your home."
She nods again and stares off, seemingly in deep thought.  The only thing that betrays her attentiveness is the movement of her ears.

*His feathers a bit ruffled*
"Sometimes, our reasons are our own."
*And with that, he steps away, and launches back into the air for another "sweep".*

J'landria's ears twitch as the Gryph takes flight, following the sound of his passage.  She sighs slightly and shrugs, never taking her eyes off of the fire.  Once the sound of his movement fades, her ears go back to listening to the world outside the comfort of their little group.

Aalistair looks around the group, one hand pawing the stubble on his chin and cheeks.

"If you folks don't mind my saying so, you lot seem a bit... perturbed. Nervous." He holds up his hands as if in warding. "Now, I'm not blaming you, mind. Out here on the Plains, Aa knows, strangers aren't always what they seem. Still, that being what it is and all, sometimes a bit o' trust and an affable smile go a right long ways to making life a mite easier."

Having spent his time quiet, and apart for most of the journey, Athellin, steps forward, and levels his gaze at Aalistair.  "Aamanian," he says, "my people find no welcome in your homeland, where we are persecuted as doomsayers and witches.  Some of us have even been hunted, if not by you, by your brethren.  I'm sure some of the others here have seen or heard similar, so we may be slow to trust.  You seem... different, in some ways.  But what would you say to allowing me to read the cards for you?"  Athellin, almost faster than the eye can follow, briefly fans and palms his Zodar deck as he says this last.

Turning to his long-time compatriots, he adds, "And what say you?  Will you trust the reading of the Zodar, should he allow it?"

Aalistair looks at the Rahastran.

"I will not deny that your people may have been persecuted. As to these cards...," he shrugs. "See what they may say about Aa's will for me. Though I personally doubt they are as efficacious as honest prayers to Aa, I do not mind your attempts to discern his will. We mortals all seek guidance where we may."

As the words pass between Aalistair and Athellin her ears twitch.  Finally curiosity takes over and she looks to the Cartomancer with a hint of interest in her otherwise closed expression.  When her eyes lock on the scene happening closer to her, her ears go back to listening to everything around them.

In reply to Athellin (msg #78):

Jaxar grasps his amber talisman and lets out a low grow, "Beware your magic lest it go awry. Do not take this the wrong way, I know you mean no harm and are trying to aid this troupe, but remember The Great Disaster wasn't an intentional act either." His whiskers twitch as he comtemplates for a moment before continuing, "for that matter, master Athellin, do your cards predict the future or are events of the future shaped by your magic? Is it not possible that the act of you reading the cards could put into play dire events that otherwise would not have occured?"

Athellin's eyes widen a bit in surprise from Aalistair's clearly unexpected response.  He quickly regains his composure, and then turns to Jaxar, "You know the cause of the Great Disaster, friend Jaxar?  For some whisper that it was intentional.  But I wander from the subject.  My magic is no more likely to go awry than the magic you carry for yourself there," as he points his finger towards the talisman Jaxar is grasping.

"As far as my magic shaping or predicting the future, who is to say?  In some small ways, my magic can shape events, but it is also capable of predicting happenings which are far to grand for my modest abilities.  And even if it were so, should I stop?  For then, not only would any unhappy events I read in the cards be avoided, many pleasant things I've found in the cards would not come to pass." 

"In any case," he continues, "I am inclined to believe this gentleman is perhaps a potential friend and ally, yet none here will say yay or nay to him, as he senses himself.  He states plainly that he would have our friendship, yet we hold him at arm's length.  If no other will vouch for him, I would do so, if my cards and conscience lead me that way."

In a gentle tone, Athellin continues, "I understand that employing magic can set your nerves on end, my friend.  I do wish to consult the Zodar regarding our new acquaintance, so if you would either prepare yourself, or if you might want to walk the perimeter of our camp to set yourself more at ease?"  His fingers deftly flip and shuffle his Zodar deck, absent-mindedly.

In reply to Athellin (msg #83):

Today: Kar rolled 9 using 1d20+8. spot (Per) check while on sweep.

Taking a couple of circles above camp to make sure there are no surprises before we bed down, also to clear his head. So many new...friends? Who knows what the creator has in store for the future.

J'landria walks over to Jaxar and lays her hand on his shoulder, then sits down beside him.  She doesn't speak, but she goes back to watching the scene before her while listening to the sound of the open prairie.

Athellin sits across from Aalistair, shuffling the cards of his Zodar deck.  They begin to blur, and, it seems so does the world around you, as the cards shimmer and glint in the firelight. 

As he shuffles, he brings draws out the first card, and and in a deep yet quiet voice, he booms to Aalistair, "You," and draws out the card of the Wanderer.

His fingers never stop shuffling, hands never stop moving, as he continues, "what you carry for us, the intentions in your soul," and Drome comes forth from the deck.

His fingers and cards now nearly a blur, the Rahastran continues, "what you will encounter, in your near future," and the Assassin card drops with the others, followed by the Warrior.

His hands slow and stop, and he rumbles, "That is all for now.  My interpretation is, that you are trustworthy, and will shortly stand beside us to confront death itself.  But then, interpretations may vary." 

Gathering up his cards, Athellin finishes, "As surprising as it is to me, I give you my trust, and would vouch for you to my companions and others."    He extends his hand in friendship to Aalistair, "And I welcome you to our troupe, should you wish to join us, and my companions be agreeable." 

Aalistair takes the offered hand and shakes it.

"We should speak some day of spiritual matters. But in the meantime, I accept your friendship in the spirit with which it is offered." He looks around at the rest of the group to judge their reactions.

In a somber tone Jaxar replies, "You misunderstand, . . .  or perhaps I have not been clear. I have already stated that I know this man, that we once hunted the same criminal. If I did not trust this man would I be so open and speak freely in his presence? Would I have let my guard down as I have?"

Turning to the Aamanian he bows slightly, "Aalistair, I apologize if I have done you an injustice. I thought it obvious by my actions that you had my trust. Although my companions and I have been through much we have not known each other long as one measures the seasons." With a sly smile he continues, "I believe I have overestimated how well they know me, or more likely, how well I communicate with them."

As Athellin continues to shuffle the cards Jaxar slowly grasps the charm at his neck with one hand and unobtrusively lays his other hand to sword hilt. His ears begin to lay back against his head as he slowly scans the perimeter from where he is seated.

After the reading Jaxar will approach Athellin. Speaking softly he advises the Rahastran, "I hope you interpret well the cards you dealt. I sensed that something important was revealed in your reading." Speaking slightly louder he adds, "I think extra vigilance in tonight's watch would be a wise course. With the recent beastmen raid on this caravan it is likely there are still some of the retches about."

J'landria's reaction to the reading is different from Jaxar's.  While he clutches his amulet and his ears lay back, she lays both hands flat on her knees and leans closer to see what is happening.  The only way you could tell that she's reacting is the fact that the hair on her neck is rising up and she begins to blink more rapidly than before.  When everything is said and done she relaxes her position some and cocks her head to the side as if she's more curious than anything.

When Jaxar speaks she turns to look at him and nods once.
"It is common that... others... do not always understand us when we speak to them," she says quietly to Jaxar.  "It is the difference in our ways."

Once Jaxar has stood and walked away, J'landria waits respectively for him to finish before she too approaches the Rahastran.  She gestures to the seat beside him and waits for a nod before sitting.

"It is quite possible, my friend.  Sometimes the Zodar can be elusive in its assistance.  Nonetheless, I applaud your vigilance." 

Athellin looks up at J'landria, his thoughts still apparently running on his predictions, smiles almost imperceptibly, and nods to her and motions to the seat beside him.

J'landria sits down and watches him move.  Her eyes dart with the movement of his hands and her head moves slightly side to side when the movements are too large to follow with just her eyes.

"Risking being an annoyance.  May I see those," she gestures to the cards.  "What you did is... interesting... to me.  So, I first seek to understand your... prop."

Athellin looks at J'landria displaying brief surprise.  "A cartomancer's Zodar deck is a rather personal thing... perhaps similar to your talisman that you wear... but I don't mind if you look," he fans the cards out in his hands.  "You have never seen the Zodar?"

She shakes her head no to answer his question and leans in close to look at the cards, keeping her hands at her sides.  At first she lets her eyes do the observing, but then she takes in a long, deep, and slow breath, smelling the cards and the one who holds them.

"I have not seen anything like them.  I," she leans in and speaks quietly.  "I have been rather sheltered.  Before now, only the Orgovian is the only outsider I have ever seen.  All this," she moves her left hand to sweep over everything.  "Well, it is quite new to me."

She cocks her head to the side and sits up, looking at Athellin.

"Thank you for the opportunity to see your... deck," she rolls the last word over in her mouth as if she's tasting it.

"You are quite welcome.  If you have been so sheltered, perhaps you should stick with us... assuming we will be sticking together.  You see, we, also, have lost those we seek.  I expect we will decide our next move once we reach Deadwood."  He turns to Aalistar, "When do we expect to reach the town?"


He turns back to J'landria, "If you would like, perhaps I can read the cards for you.  But not tonight.  I think perhaps Jaxar is right, we should remain on our guard, and get our rest for our journey in the morning." 

Aalistair rubs his chin, looks up at the sky and back down at the horizon.

"When I rode out in search of the pilgrims, I was moving fairly fast. Only took me a day to find them. Heading back, with you lot on foot...," he pauses for a moment clearly thinking things through. "Assuming we get a decent start and nothing surprising happens tonight, we should get there mid-morning probably. Suns-high at the latest."

J'landria nods and smiles at Athellin.

"That would be... interesting," she says in almost a purr.  "As for staying with you, traveling in numbers is always a good idea."

She stands then and stretches then looks around.

"Tell me what watch I have, I can take any you need me to."

Careful watches during the night pass uneventfully.  In the morning, everyone is able to get moving again, and start the last leg of the march south to Deadwood.

J'landria does what is asked of her, and will step in to help if an additional set of hands are needed.  She doesn't speak unless spoken to first, and will answer in as few words as possible.  She seems a little overwhelmed with the amount of people around her at times.  She generally stays on the edges of the group, or near Jaxar if he is near the edge of the group.  Her eyes and ears are constantly scanning the area, and only on occasion does she concentrate on one spot before going back to scanning around.

The day dawns clear, if cool, and the entire group is able to get underway under the early light of the two suns.

After leading the group of travelers and his equs in a brief march, Aalistair points off to a set of hills just visible in the distance.

"There's Deadwood," he says. "The Aamanian monastery is closer to us on the north end of town. Cymrilian tower is at the opposite end." His finger moves slightly from one point on the horizon to another barely any distance apart.

"There's a few taverns and inns and such," he shrugs. "I'm sure we can find some accomodation for you lot."

In the cool light of the morning, Athellin says softly to Jaxar as you walk, "Sorry if I have offended last night.  I was trying to be sensitive to your unique senses when it comes to magic.  As far as our new friends go, I don't believe any of us has yet given them a full accounting of our situation." 

He looks at Aalistair and J'landria, and smiles warmly.  "We have been traveling by windship.  For a place such as the ruins on the Plains of Golarin, it is an exceptionally fine mode of travel, as we fly over the heads of the Beastmen, with no harm of interference by them.  I count us lucky that in our march we have not encountered any, but as we see from the pilgrims, it is our luck indeed which has saved us.  In any case, we were supposed to meet our friends in the windship during the night, but they did not rendez vous with us.  Nor did we see them in the light of morning, or since.  We find ourselves missing both our friends, and our accustomed mode of transportation.  My first thought is to find a way to recover both, but first, we needed to get out of hostile territory, and the Zodar indicated to me that our windship was to the south of us as well." 

J'landria's ears twitch and she looks toward Athellin and listens to him as they walk toward Deadwood.  At his words she shrugs and nods to him.
"Sounds.. Interesting.  I came close to the beastmen a few times, but was able to easily skirt around them.  I am glad that we met up, for traveling in a place like this is," she ponders for a moment, clearly thinking of the next word to use.  "Easier? More convenient in a well armed and trained group."
She continues to look at him for a moment longer and seeing his gentle smile, she risks one of her own, a toothy grin that could easily be mistaken for something predatory if it wasn't for the look in her eyes.

"No apologies are necessary, friend. I admit I am overcautious when it comes to the use of magic. Perhaps I have an unacknowledged need to overcompensate for what I perceive to be a reckless or carefree attitude. It is silly, I know. Do not think for a second that I am under the impression that you would in any way put us at risk or would use your gift carelessly. It is quite possible that I am a bit of a superstitious fool." Looking over toward J'landria he chuckles and shakes his head. "Obviously not all of us Jaka are as 'constrained' as I am when it comes to the use of magic. Frankly, our new companion's attitude mystifies me. But knowing how often magic has been used by you and our other companions to keep us alive I have to admit to myself that she may have the right of it"

J'landria looks at Jaxar and smiles slightly.  Moving a little closer she catches his eyes for a moment, and begins to sign.


Her fingers flit quickly, but her facial expression remains neutral.  Her eyes stay on Jaxar, but her ears are constantly listening to everything around them.

As you travel south, the ground becomes rockier, and the thick grass more sparse.  Several hills rise in the distance, where Aalistair has indicated the town of Deadwood to be.

From the distance, it appears you will reach the town by mid-morning, and the hills surrounding it before that.


[OOC:  I've opened up the "Deadwood" thread, and any who wish to start looking around town are free to do so, but I also encourage your continued banter in this current thread as your characters walk into town.]

In reply to GM (msg #107):

Nearing the city, it is good to see the others communing. Perhaps, there is hope for them yet.

Them.

Maybe I need to include myself in their company more.

Perhaps in the city......ehhhh.......crowds.