https://gurps.fandom.com/wiki/GURPS_Banestorm

Has a fair overview, the area is huge, like all of central & northern asia!
We can work a lot in fairly freely, but do look at the map, there are few ways to walk from there into Megalos or other southern areas.
The passages are guarded to prevent raids and it may be a trick for Creidne to talk her way into the sothern lans, should she wish to do that.

OK Guys, I'm ready to go

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 2):

As am I, pretty much. Few minor details to sort out, but probably good enough to go

I'm ready to go.

OK, Creidne could use a character description. Troel's description needs a minor update. kiley can wait a bit until she is filled in.

It's a crisp spring day, snow only hides in the deep shadow, but the wind is still cold and goes through clothing not designed to hold it off.
There is a ford over the rushing rocky river ahead and as you approach from the north, you see others also making for it. One is a smaller blond leading a horse which seems lightly loaded. Further out and to the east is a chariot with two riders bouncing over the rough ground pulled by two horses , making you wonder if it wouldn't be better to walk, Lastly, stopped down close by the river ford is a very big man fastening ropes onhis mule he has on a lead. It seems to have a large load but none to heavy as it doesn't look weighed down.

The River is flowing fast and the water not as shallow as it normally due to the spring melt. Each of you can make an IQ or perception roll.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:54, Thu 24 June 2021.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 5):

The big man checks the horses, making sure all is tight, before noticing the blonde. Female companionship was always welcome, though he did not want to hang around to help the chariot. He felt sorry for the horses, partly because those who owned chariots usually treated him like they treated their animals, and he would prefer to watch as the chariot floated away from the other side of the bank.

But the blonde looked like someone who might appreciate the help of a big, strong man...
This message was last edited by the player at 04:17, Wed 23 June 2021.

PM

As she closes You can see she is not a looker, but her horse seems cared for anf she carries her weapons well... but she also shies away from you and stops some distnce away.  She watches the water for a few moments  Crossing is very risky aay?

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 8):

"You could say that. Some of that rumbling is rocks on their merry way. The branches indicate the river is high, too. Know where the nearest bridge is?"

He watches her carefully, but does not approach her, staying near the animals.

None be anywhere I know of. Looks like we camp .. maybe up on the knoll in case of any flood.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 10):

"Not a bad idea. Also get a good view of anyone coming..."

He checks how clear the water looks, refilling his wineskin if it looks clean.

Creidne looks over the ford. Her red hair is done up in braids and she is wearing a shirt of chain mail over a tunic and she is wearing Braccae in her clans green tartan.

"Kiley, what do you think of this? I'm going to dismount and see what the news is."

She then dismounts and walks over to the group around the ford.

"Hello, I am Creidne, daughter of Tristan. What is going on here?"

In reply to Creidne (msg # 12):

Troels observes the rich new arrival.

"Nothing is going on here. We are off to make camp, but you can go across if you like."

The crossing is unsafe with branches and rocks going through in the flow and knee high or more rushing water.
I am going to make camp on yon rise. I think he is as well.  Did we not race at last Mid- summers gathering?

"I think we did and I beat yea by a horse length."
Kiley says.

She is a Red headed young woman of about average height. She is wearing a kilt in the same Tartan as Creidne. She seems very comfortable holding reigns in her hands. Yet the axe next to her hands has seen some use.



"If yea not be a sore looser then I think that we can make room by the fire for yea."

"Kiley be nice."
Creidne playfully scolds her friend. They soon share some lighthearted mock angry banter. It ends with the friends having a laugh at each other.

She then looks over the crossing and then the rise.She then nods her head in approval.

"Would yea be willing to share the rise with us? We do have a very long journey ahead of us and much to do before we get there."

No issue, should be room for all our tents and horses.
She eyes the sky  And a tent may be wise, looks like a mist rolling in for the night.

As for the race, me Father's horse and he tired at the end, so I have no complaints.

"That settles that then. I'll get my tent set up. Kiley could you place a few defenses around our camp. I don't want any unannounced visitors in the night.  I would suggest you place them there, there and there."

Creidne points to places around the rise where it would be most sutable to attack the camp.


She then sets about putting up a tent and finding dry stones for a fire ring. With the tent up and the ring made she starts looking for dry wood for a fire.

Kiley parks her chariot and ties up the horses near some graze.

"Do you expect to be attacked or are you just being cautious?"

Kiley asks her friend. She then sets about making some rather painful traps.


Most of the traps are simple vines across a gap in the brush in front of a bed of leaf camouflaged barbed wooden stakes. The intent being to trip an unwary intruder so that their chest falls on the wooden stakes.


She the informs the camp of their locations.

"I'll be picking them up in the morning."

Good, but also leave a way in to bring wood and for trips to make night soil.



OOC- Not much in the way of vines, this is a small rise in the grass lands with rocks close under the surface, it's perhaps 20 feet higher than the surrounds. Nearest wood is dry stuff down by the river, swept up by past floods.
Also, Troels player is moving his family to where he lives, a significant trip, so will be scarce for a week or so.

Come morning all is well it seems, the river is still wild.

lets do Vision checks.

Creidne gets out of her tent naked but for her axe and shield. She then looks around the camp and gives her body a nice morning stretch.

Calmly she walks down to the river and setting her weapons down splashes water over her body for a simple bath.

Kiley follows Creidne out of the latter's tent. She too is as naked as the day she was born. Like her friend she is armed. She looks up at her friend stretching and blushes.

As Creidne walks to the river she busies herself stoking the fire. As The fire returns to life she looks down to the river and watches her friend bathe. She seems very interested in her wet friend.

As Creidne is looking around,she spot a do far out moving generally toward the camp. Too small to be a horse and too big to be a fox. Seems small to be a man too.

Your trip to the stream turns out to be ill advisd asthe current is rushing and tree branches rise up and sink back with out rhyme or reason, getting with in a yard of the stream is asking for trouble.

You can do a DX -2 die roll if you wish to risk it.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 25):

Troels was a bit reluctant to get too involved with the women just yet, though he looked them all over, before setting up his tent and offering the group basics he had brought for the use of all.

He spent much of the evening fishing, without too much luck  before hitting the sack for the night. Next morning, he was up early, breaking camp and packing his stuff, wondering how to get across the rivers. Or if he wanted to, when he saw the naked women in the morning. He was not a fan of rich snobs, but that was pretty uncharacteristic for a rich snob...

He is far too distracted to notice the approaching creature, though he does, as always, have his weapons on him.

"You ladies looking for water for a bath, or just making it hard for a guy to ignore you deliberately?"

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 26):

The stream is hardly fit for fishing... you'd have lost your line! The water is dirty, flowing very fast and full of debris.

Over time the dot approaches and becomes a red something ... it takes a while longer to see that it is a human figure walking toward you. By midday the warf, for indeed that he is, and wears a red tabard.
The red tabard makes him a mercenary from a peculiar dwarven cult that has a reputation for getting it done, odds be damned. Their reputation is somewhat like that of the Texas Rangers in United States.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 27):

The Dwarf, makes his way down the towards the river and the camp and the gaggle of occupants, stopping some hundred or so steps off, as he places a hand in his mouth and whistles shrilly to draw attention to himself. Then he holds up his right hand, palm up and facing outward in a gesture of greeting.

In reply to Hessum Irontree (msg # 28):

Troels notices the newcomer is more in the line of work he is in, but perhaps more experienced. He approaches him smartly, lowering his axe and shield.

"Well met. What brings you out here?"

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 26):

"Our people are not ashamed of our bodies.  That and we were looking forward to bathing often. Alas it looks as if the river is too wild."

Kiley says as she tends the fire. She glances down at Creidne. She obviously cares deeply about her friend.


"I chould have the fire ready for cooking here shortly."

Disappointed with not having a morning bath, Creidne goes back to camp and gets dressed.She then gets out a pot from Kiley's stuff and places it over the fire. Into the pot goes water from her waterskin and some oats.

"The river's still bad. I would not want to try and cross right now."

Her morning routine includes weapon practice with Kiley. While the pair are the same age it's apparent that Creidne is better at combat. It's not so much that she's more skilled but she has more innate ability.

When the Dwarf shows up she is wary but open to listening.

Seen 'em before, mercenaries, but honest and fight like a Mother Bear protecting her young.

Creidne looks from the dwarf to Blythe.

"We have other Dwarves we have met. Most of them are merchants trading with us surface folk. their weapons are very good. Others are outlawed for some reason by their kin and kicked to the surface. Many of those are bandits."

Creidne holds up her axe. The head on top of the finely carved and decoratively scorched handle has a flowing grain of pattern welded steel. The level of craftsmanship shows the attention of a master smith or a dwarf.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 29):

[OOC note: I am operating under the assumption that Creidne is speaking to him in Celtic, as it makes a small difference]

The Dwarf looks from Creidne's hand to his face and back to his hand as he drops his hand down, palm facing upward, shaking it back and forth: "Hello. You know is over water road?"

He continues to gesticulate, pointing to his eye and then up and down the riverbank, before bowing his hand and running in the shape of an arch in front of him. His face is impassive as his eyes look to the women, then back to Creidne's hands.

In reply to Hessum Irontree (msg # 34):

Troels smirks. Mercenaries. Dwarven or human, it did not matter...a pretty woman and the men doo not even get noticed! He stays where he is an watches the exchange.

LOOK! The water is going down in the stream!

Blythe promptly starts loading her stuff helter skelter, then leads her hastily packed horse down to the stream, stops and then starts across, the water being about ankle high and carrying much less large debris...  she heads to a rise on the opposite bank.

Creidne answers in broken Dwarven.

"I speak little dwarf. Road open now"

Creidne then looks to a packing Kiley.

"The river has gone down. I'll go across and meet yeh there."

Creidne then walks by Troels and down to the river. She looks over the crossing and then follows Blythe. On the other side she looks around while waiting for her friend.

Kiley has Creidne and her own stuff packed away quickly and efficiently. Everything has a place to go and is secured. She then leads her own horses down to the river. Rather than ride the chariot across the river she guides the horses. That way she could pick out the path the horses took across the river.

probably an Ice Jam, move fast for it will be hell to pay when it breaks.  She yells to thosee who can hear her

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 39):

Having been ignored so far, Troels heads back for his beast and proceeds to cross over...

Hessum looks from Troels to Creidne and back, addressing Creidne in Dwarvish: "Is there a Bridge?"

Examining the river, he looks up and down the waterway, looking for a better ford or way to cross.

Hessum, seeing no better option, hastily fords the river.

Blythe Waves everyone up on the rise with her and starts a small fire to heat water.


it is about 10 minutes before a loud cracking rumbling noise comes from up streaam and a huge flood of ice, trees and only the Lord knows what else thunders down the stream bed in an eight foor high wall.

Creidne watches the flash flood with detached interest. She had seen such things before and would probably see them again. The power of the river spirit being shown was impressive and even a giant would be swept away by the current.

She turns from the river and walks into camp.

"Since we seem to be traveling together let us introduce ourselves. I am Creidne daughter of Tristan. That is my companion Kiley."

She gestures to Kiley who is setting up camp for the pair.

In reply to Creidne (msg # 44):

Troels made it across the stream in good time, and continued to travel further from the creek, to be safe. By the time the flash flood was on its way,, he was a good deal higher than those that had stopped.

The water briefly come about half way up the rise but quickly receds back close to it's banks.

I am Blythe , of Clan Colla. My Father is Declan. I had to leave as I turned down an older man's desire for my body, regretably it required that I kill him, but I kept hs horse and such gear as i could clean enough to keep.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 46):

With the receding water Troels considered for a few moments before returning to the others, just in time to hear Blythes introduction.

"Pleased to meet you Blythe. Troels, and I am an axe for hire, from no great linage."

Blythe smiles and nods Troels way an how did you come o be called long spear?

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 48):

He smiles.

"Physical features...I was a tall and skinny kid."

He is nearly 8 ft tall...
This message was last edited by the player at 00:55, Tue 13 July 2021.

Oh, I wondered if it was something else.No Matter.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 50):

"That, my dear lady, is something you should judge for yourself. We can discuss that later if you like..." he offers with a smile.

Thanks, but not looking just now. Had enough o' men for a while.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 52):

"Right. We can keep the relationship strictly sexual if you prefer."

He stays back and remains non-threatening, however.

"I'm sorry that a man tried to mistreat you Blythe. I can understand why as I would not mind sharing my furs with you."

Creidne says with a slight smile. She looks over Blythe. She then turns towards Kiley. The other woman nods and they look away.

"I have a long journey ahead and I do not intend for it to be lonely. I have seen signs that I must travel far and fight a battle."

She turns a bit pink.
So? How far? I need to earn some coin, so I can eat better. And an ale is nice on ocassion.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 55):

At the sound of coin, Troels is interested.

"How much are you willing to pay, and for what?"

The dwarf follows the group, listening but does not deign to immediately speak or introduce himself, as he seems to fidget while walking along the path. He is obviously listening, his eyes wandering from the speakers to focus on their hands, as waddles along.

"So?...You seem willing to share furs with me."

Creidne says noticing the blushing. Her smile grows.

"You are already blushing like a maiden at Beltane. Don't worry to much as I have yet to be with a woman myself."

She then looks slowly away from Blythe.

"I do not know yet how far I am going. I had a dream of war and bloodshed. When I awoke I saw the birds of the Morrighan flying in this direction. I believe they mean for me to head south into the lands of the Christians to wage war there. As far as coins go I do have my coin purse but even as fat as it is it will not get us there. I am going to look to see if I can find employment along the way and gather myself an army worthy of the name."

Creidne looks at her ax.

"We have the start of a warband here. Would you throw your lot in with me."

In reply to Creidne (msg # 58):

Having been pretty much ignored thus far, Troels ignores the question. Warbands were dangerous business with experienced leaders, and these were little more than rich kids out to play. He was not really interested unless there was coin up front, and she has already put that idea to rest...

A very small start but I have nothing else to choose. I'll go with ye and we'll see how things play.

She ponders a bit, I suppose we need to acquire some coin by other means then?

Creidne walks behind Blythe. Intimately close to the other woman. She leans in and kisses the back of the other woman's neck and then whispers.

"You should have played a little harder to get and teased me some. Shamus had all sorts of tricks to keep a woman's attention. "

She then looks over at Troels and the Hessum.

"The two of you seem quiet. I know that I am not offering pay as of yet. I am trying to find some good warriors. Gold while it may be valuable will not get me good warriors. However good warriors will get me gold. Right now I am able to pay for a handful of mercenaries, I would much rather spend that money on other things."

I may not be so easy as you assume, I prefer men, real men, not hoping to be a man sorts. But I am in no rush and no need of a frolic in the furs. She replies somewhat softly.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 63):

"I am between jobs as well, but I have seen rich types expend mercenaries you like water, and have no interest in such a relationship. If you have good ideas, happy to work with you, but I am no servant either. That needs to be accepted."

I am no servant, wouldn't expct you to be one.

Hessum perks up slightly, looking from Troels to Creidne, as they continue to walk along: "How much you pay?"

His tone and cadence lilts oddly, putting emphasis on every other syllable.

"Blythe, I do think that we have similar tastes in men. I want you because I know you and yet we are not friends...yet. If we don't enjoy each other we can go back to the men we both desire. If we enjoy each other then we can find men that we both enjoy together. "

Creidne slips her arms around Blythe. The other woman could pull away easy if she so desired.

She then looks at Troels.

"I have been leading men into battle for the past five summers. My Father is a known leader of men and he has taught me well. The first bands that I lead were I will admit guided by his trusted men. I have lost people in battle including a lover. Their lives were not spent on some fools errand but lost in combat with an enemy. Those enemies are now either dead or serving my father.

She looks over at the Dwarf.

"Now Dwarf, the question is how much is your sword arm, loyalty and Honor worth to you? I am willing to pay reasonable sums to those who join me."

Blythe turns out of Creidne's arm  We do seem to have some things in common, so let us see where it goes.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 68):

"Many words, but we shall see."
His reply was brief, but polite.

True, and no good reason to camp here, we have half the day to move and find a new camp away from the rushing waters.

She takes the hasty mess she threw on th horse off of it and folds and rolls her gear corrctly for a day of travel.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:15, Sat 24 July 2021.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 70):

Having actually packed properly, Troels simply check his water supply and waters his horse, allowing it to then graze a little.

Being rather skilled at storing cargo. Kiley already has her and Creidne's things stored.

"So where are we going Blythe? I mean other than Creidne into your furs?"

She asks Blythe. it's obvious that she's joking about Blythe and Creidne.

"Your woman may get dreams but they haven't told us where she needs to go."

And I thought she was going to  lead... Let's go west by South to the place they say the wall is.

As the group presses on, and Blythe asks her question, Hessum is quiet for a long time continuing to watch and listen to the banter. When a moment of pauses occurs he interjects himself: "One Cethan balanced to three caravan guards...I only charge double."

His accent is broken, as he resumes speaking in the Celtic the group is commonly speaking in.

Blythe turns and looks at the dwarf... Cethan?  that's the sect of fighters?

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 75):

"Equal shares all round, or you can count me out." he answers bluntly.

He maybe a more equal fighter then you by a good margin; if pay is attributed to all equally, the horses will get a good share.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:28, Mon 02 Aug 2021.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 77):

"Yeah, he may not be to. If the horses want a share, they should negotiate it themselves. Otherwise, we all risk death, so we all get an equal share. Risk goes with reward, not ability, which is impossible to measure. If you have greater ability, take greater risks, and we should all agree on that. Otherwise, equal shares for all."

OOC - I am thinking Creidne's player is involved with fighting fires up in Oregon and just can't get a breathe ... we'll be patient until we know more.

(OCC- Combination of work, trying to breath with the smoke and visiting the place Dad had his fatal heart attack for the first time. )

"As far as pay goes I would have to find a fort controlled by a Noble. While I am sure that we are individually formidable. As a group we are more so. I am planning on recruiting more warriors as five people cannot get much done."

Creidne goes from Blythe to Kiley. She hugs her friend then stands on Kiley's chariot.

"Equal shares for now sounds fine by me as currently we are all effectively equals. While I am a Noble, we are all warriors of no great renown. Should we recruit a warband then that might change. I have lead warparties and when they get large enough one needs other leaders to help guide the band. Those in charge would naturally be paid more as they will be responsible for their men."

Fair by me, but yon Dwarf may be less happy. Where to from here?

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 81):

"As I was asking for as well. Let's move on to find some pay. Five capable individuals should be a good start for now."

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 81):

Hessum continues to listen, looking from them to the road, to their swaying hands as they continue on. He seems to pat himself down and fidget as they walk on, "Everything is worth price," He says, "I take even share."

((@Creiden, hopefully, you are staying well and safe.))

"Yes Dwarf everything has it's price. Our price is not known yet. We have far to go and much to do before we get there."

Creidne replies. She starts walking south.

"If we get lost follow the ravens. They are a sign and I feel a great battle ahead. "

In reply to Creidne (msg # 84):

With several versions of Survival, Troels looks to ensure he understands which way is south...

What skill would be used to not get lost?

Everyman knows the movement of the sun, so south is generally pretty clear, if a bit vague specifically.

She falls in the little parade behind Creidne and Kiley.

The first day goes quietly with only a few animals seen at a distance. You find a oft used camp site nd have a quiet night. Come morning you crest a hill and see the far distant White Fang Mountains to the south. This is a regularly used path south, but you have seen no one. It is mid-morning.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 88):

Troels tries his hand at catching game, but does not do well. If he get the chance to go fishing, he will try that too.

Approaching the path from a barely visible game trail is a tall, thin woman with dark blue hair. She has something slung across her back that looks suscpiciously like a stringed instrument. With a cheerful look on her face and a staff in one hand the woman comes within hailing range. Pointed ears betray an elven heritage...
This message was last edited by the player at 08:06, Mon 30 Aug 2021.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 90):

Troels watches cautiously, but lets others do the talking.

"Blythe, take up your weapon and step to my right. Kiley, on my left."

Creidne says. the order to Kiley is more for Blythe's benefit as she has trained with Kiley since they were little girls. She doesn't look to see if Kiley has fallen into place to guard her left flank.

With her flank guarded she walks up to the stranger but stays out of easy melee range.

"Hello stranger. I am Creidne daughter of Tristan. Who might you be?"

She is on alert if there are any other unexpected travelers on the trails. The wilderness between villages was rife with bandits and outlaws.

Blythe grabs her shield and spear and stands to Creidne's right, spear grounded and shield loosely by her side, but gripped so she could have it up faster then a knife could fly between them.

"The pleasure is mine, Creidne, daughter of Tristan," she replies, relieved at the ciivility of the greeting. "I am Roahfustion, of more or less anywhere you may have been, entertainer and teller of tales, tall and tiny, tattles and truesomes, literate lender of learned lowdown and legendary lore. In short, I am Roahfustion The Bard." She smiles a real smile and bows, twinkling eyes not leaving the trio. "I am pleased to make your acquaintance. Or acquaintances, if I may be so bold, Blythe and Kiley."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:27, Thu 02 Sept 2021.

Blythe just nods and relaxes slightly, she doesn't appear to be a threat.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 95):

Troels ignores her as he was ignored, and continues on, looking for threats.

The women could talk just fine...

Hessum watches the group, being the most laconic of the group. Turning to Troels, Hessum shrugs and looks back and forth, before saying: "Dice?"

"You know us from somewhere? I do not believe that we have been acquainted and I did not think that I had that great a reputation yet."

Creidne relaxes and slips her axe into her belt. She turns and walks over to the guys. Along the way she casts and appreciative glance at Blythe's butt.

"It seems that the boys have stopped for a break. Would you like to join us?"

In reply to Hessum Irontree (msg # 97):

"You know, Hassan, that is a good idea. I should get some."

He continues with him.

In reply to Creidne (msg # 98):

"That would be most agreeable. Thank you, I am grateful."


======
OOC: I've changed speech colour as several folks seem to be using blue.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:09, Sat 04 Sept 2021.

"If you would follow me."

Creidne requests. She then offers Roahfustion a seat near Troels. She then waits for the other women to sit befor getting her own seat.

"So Roahfustion, what brings you hear and do you wish to talk about yourself?"

She waits for an answer.

In reply to Creidne (msg # 101):

OOC Troels and the dwarf were still walking, letting the women talk...

In reply to Creidne (msg # 101):

"I'm a humble entertainer, a wanderer, collector of tales other folks adventures and teller of the same. I gather myriad stories, facts and fables and reuse these to the advantage of those with me. I can aid the body, slightly to be truthful, and massage the soul. I know which end of my sword is pointed and I may ofte know what might be found in the next town along the trail. I am versed in many aspects of bardic lore, more so than most and by a fair margin. Well, what else would you know of me?
"Or will you speak of yourselves and any plan for days to come?" she answers.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:23, Thu 09 Sept 2021.

"Oh i am the daughter of a Rí Tuath. While I could be a ruler of my people. Fate seems to have other plans for me. I have had a vision and in it the Morrigahn promises me a great conflict to the south. I am gathering a warband and seeking battle."

Creidne says. Her eyes seem to brighten when she talks of battle. There is an eagerness to her voice.

She then steps besides Blythe and puts her arm around the other woman. She whispers something into the other woman's ear.


She then turns away from the other woman.

"I have a few ideas about who I wish to recruit. The issue will be finding them and convincing them to join us."

"Fate may be fickle but not always so," comments Roahfustion. "So those men are yours already?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 105):

I should hope we are out of earshot by now as we continue along, else Troels would scowl and deny that, quite pointedly!

Creidne listens to Troels argue with the elf.

"He is right as he is his own man. I have no command over him and I have no need for it. If he so chooses to lead men for me then that will be his choice."

Creidne pauses for a moment.

"Right now I desire someone to share my furs, some men who can use arms and someone to fight. That being said, I think perhapse i should see if Olsen the Trader wishes to join us. If we can find some good men then we will earn gold. Olsen is the sort of man who would turn that gold into more gold for us."

"Sounds like a good tale in the making," comments  Roahfustion. "Mayhap I could help, if you would have me."

I have not seen Olsen in well over a year, he may be hard to find.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 109):

Argue? We are walking off ahead, there has not been any words spoken as far as I can tell...

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 110):

And Blythe didn't say a thing about arguing eiher... Creidne, the Dwarf and the Tall fellow are some 70 meters away with their backs to you... they seem to be moving on.

Taking Creidne as the leader of the group, Roahfustion looks at her wondering if the flame-haired woman wants a bard to join her. She makes little effort to influence the outcome, wanting to be accepted for who she is but does add, "I enjoy cooking. Fairly good at it. Drinking wine, too." She assumes the rapier, armour and pouch of healing herbs speak (or smell) for themselves.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:40, Mon 13 Sept 2021.

"I would not be so sure Blythe. Traders and Merchants tend to be rather open about where they are going and where they are at. They want people to find them for trade."

She wiggles her butt to tease Blythe and the turns to Roahfustion.

"I'm glad that you can cook. I'm good at hunting and well Kiley seems to know animals especially dogs and horses a little too well."

The last part is said with a grin. it's obvious that she's teasing Kiley.

"Tik!"

Kiley yells out in anger. She launches a kick at Creidne's butt and misses.


"You know full well that I have only been with two men in my life! You were there when it happened!"

She takes a couple of swings at Creidne and then busts out laughing.

"You got me mad on purpose didn't you?"

Blythe catches creidne's act... Perhaps Troels should skewer that thing for you.

Kiley puts her arm around Creidne.

"I think not. If I was going to let her sleep with any old male I would let her ride my horse. As it stands i will find her a hansom Jarl who is rich, brave and amazing with his sword."

She gives Blythe a smile.

In reply to Creidne (msg # 113):

"Makes sense," Roahfustion replies to Creidne and then smiles tolerantly at the butt wriggling, but not really understanding. "Hunting's good. More meat for the pot! And animals..oh..well, I'm not an animaal-person."

As realisation dawns Roahfustion watches the interplay with interest, thinking 'This is a fun group. Full of life.' She wonders about the relationship between Blythe and Kiley but waits patiently until they finish teasing. "So, do you girls like to party?"
This message was last edited by the player at 09:55, Wed 15 Sept 2021.

Blythe shrugs never had the money to party much, and too much drink can lead to complications, like children. But i think we ought to catch up with the dwarf and Troels.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 118):

"There are ways," Roahfustion starts and then alters tact, "..and what a good idee: to catch up with the others. Perhaps you would introduce me to them, please? Some men can get the wrong idea."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:35, Fri 17 Sept 2021.

So far they have shown little interest. Blythe starts off toward the two men.

With her best winning smile to Creidne and Kiley, Roahfustion follows Blythe, lengthening her stride to catch up. She asks Blythe, "So was all that just banter? Or are some of you folks hooked up?"

Creidne and Kiley seem to be close companions, I am not hooked up with anyone, although Creidne seems to fancy us doing so. I am little interested at this time.

"Blyth is right about things. I do somewhat fancy her, I've heard of some Sahudanese practices that sound enjoyable. Kiley and I have known each other since we were babies. She's been my friend the whole time. Of course we tease each other. it helps to prevent a swelled head."

Creidne says. She smiles when Kiley then promises her a swelled head. She then replies with a raised fist and extends her index and middle fingers.

"We really do need to find a village or at the very least some outlaws to fight. I have a feeling that we are going to need money and men by the time our journey is over."

The group is now in a strung out column marching after the two males.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 122):

Roahfustion says quietly to Blythe, "Well, she is an attractive woman. But maybe you only like..?" She flicks with her head towards the pair of males ahead. "Or are you just 'off' all such things just now?"

Responding to Creidne, Roahfustion says lightheartedly, "Well, seems you have the advantage of me. I don't quite know what Sahudanese practices you mean. Maybe you can inform me sometime.." and leaves it hanging.

Picking up on Creidne's call for a village or outlaws, the bard wracks her brains for any titbits of information that might help.

======

Well perhaps not those two, but men, yes. As a youngster a few of us girls fooled around, but it was just child's play back then.

As you crest the rise, you notethe guys are headed toward a small copse, and there is a horse and a wagon under it.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 126):

Troels goes over with the new person to look at what he has to offer.

He has an array of weapons, clothes, and gear, none all that exciting and certainly not rare except in distant parts of the Nomad Lands.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 128):

"Ah, pity I have bugger all cash. Not that you have anything better than what I already have. Well, all the best...the river is flooded though."

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 126):

As they start to catch up with the pair of males Roahfustion asks, "Blythe, I've got it that 'Troels' is the tall one. But what's the name of the other one?"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:21, Tue 21 Sept 2021.

I think the dwarf said his name was hesse or hessen, didn't hear it clearly.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 131):

"Would you be kind and introduce me, please?" asks  Roahfustion. "That's if it's ok and you don't mind, of course."

Blythe gets behind the dwarf Hesse, this Lady just joind our group, Roahfustion is her name.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 133):

"I am pleased to make your acquaintance, honoured dwarf, Master Hesse," says  Roahfustion in accented dwarven with some culturally* appropriate flourish, perhaps, "May your beard ever flourish and maintain colour". She bows to the dwarf, and then again to the human male.

She reverts to accented Norse, "I am, indeed, Roahfustion, and I understand you are named 'Troels'. Please accept my greetings!" She adds some culturally** appropriate embelishment, such as, "May your strong arm never drop your razored weapon."

======
*Cultural Familiarity (Dwarven)
**Cultural Familiarity (Norse)

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 134):

Troels turns to the newcomer.

"Well met Roahfustion...good to meet a well cultured lady. This young chap is a trader."

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 135):

She meets the sturgy fellow's gaze evenly, quickly admiring his musculature, and then bows again, "Well, thank you. Such a courteous young man you are! It's my pleasure to know you also. You have interesting colleagues, too. Is there anything we would like to procure from this trader?"

The bard slips back into Anglish, and turns to the journeyman merchant, "Pray tell me, my dear trader, what wares have you for sale? And which will be your next direction of travel?"

I am Olsen my lady. To list them all would take the day and I don't have enough drink to keep our throats moist.  I expct I shall be headed North in the direction you have just come from, next.

"Tell me, Trader Olsen, have you recently encountered a fellow named Shamus?" Pausing for the fellow to confirm or deny, Roahfustion then sings, "Well, all the right notes are here; in the right order, it does appear!" Talking normally once more, she adds, "The good looking lady over there, the tall one with to-die-for red hair, she wants you speak with you."

Roahfustion smiles and steps back so that Creidne may take center stage.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:17, Fri 24 Sept 2021.

Ah Shamus, He went south in haste when a Norse Chieftan found his young daughter pregnant by him. Likely over in Eastern Megalos for a while. Maybe a long while, the Norse do not forget quickly.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 139):

"Might you recall the chieftain's name, perchance, my good Olsen? I shall not forget yours and shall speak of seeing a nice selection of wares." And then she really does step back.

"Olsen!"

Creidne cries out recognizing the man. She greets him warmly.

She frowns at the comment about Shamus leaving a girl up the duff.

"The father must really be pissed off at Shamus. I know he already has kids by other women. He's made arrangements to at least financially take care of all of them he knows about. I am heading south on a quest and I though about seeing a couple of his kids along the way."

She look over Olsen's finery, even his traveling clothes were above average quality. She then looks to his wagon.

Olsen gives Creidne a big hug with a hand on her posterior. he then shows her about and pulls out some things that were not shown to any of you.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 142):

Troels looks through, but cannot afford anything yet...

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 142):

Creidne gently removes the man's hand. It's a good thing she liked him or she would have removed his ability to stay awake.


"Troels does not anything strike your fancy?"

She looks over Olsen's goods and looks over at Kiley.

"Kiley since you are the one who packs the horses how are our supplies?"

I see that we did not get to see all his wares, although he seems to have inspected yours... what sort of winter clothing have you then Olsen.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 145):

"I already have group basics, tent and weapons. Perhaps food and some quarrels of bolts would work I suppose."

While waiting for the shopping and provisioning Roahfustion unsligs her zither to accompany her while she sings a favourite song of hers*.

=======
OOC: *https://www.<nospam>youtube.com/watch?v=oIYgsqhwXzM
A Horse With No Name (America 1972)

09:51, Today: Secret Roll: Roahfustion rolled 11 using 3d6.  Singing 15.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:51, Wed 06 Oct 2021.

Everyone slowly stops whatever they are doing to listen, when you end, there is some clapping and Olsen Nods Very good indeed, let me keep those fingers warm.
He gives you a nice pair of fur lined gloves.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 148):

Troels also appreciated the performance.

"Very nice indeed. I probably should name my horse... good thing I don't ride it!"

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 148):

Reslinging her Zither the bard lowers her head towards the trader while still kepping eye contact with him. "Why thank you, Master Olsen. This gift is most unexpected and thus all the more precious." She smiles, showing lots of white teeth, as she tries on the gloves. "Well, my, Master Olsen, they are a perfect fit and so comfortable. I,  Roahfustion, may sing your praises as I move around the contryside."

Still smiling the bard turns and currtsies to Troels, "Thank you, my dear, Troels. Your appreciation warms my heart." She looks across to the horse to see whether it's mare or other. "I am certain your horse would appreciate a nice name. I know I wouuld feel quite lost without mine."  She looks back at the horse. "If you wish, some time, I could help you choose a name. It would be a nice gift." Roahfustion foregoes any quips about about what Troels does or doesn't like to ride; she doesn't know him well enough as yet.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 150):

Troels is not quite so shy.

"Truth of the matter is, it is not horses that get my attention. You would be welcome to name it, and feel free to put any excess goods on his back."

He smiles at her, and then seems to catch himself, recalling Blythes lack of interest.

Roahfustion isn't shy, judst careful, and engages with Troels, eye to eye. With a pleasant smile she responmds, "Well, thank you kindly, Master Troels. That would be a kindness to your horse. And thank you for your kindness to me." She catches his double take and takes a pace forwards, adding quietly, "Is there a problem? Anything I can help with?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 152):

"Oh, quite possibly. But that is something to discuss without an audience..."

He holds her gaze and touched her arm gently with a suggestive smile.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 153):

She doesnn't seem to notice Troels' hand but says very quietly, totally dead pan, "Mayhap I misunderstood, but weren't you.. courting Blythe's attentions?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 154):

Troels holds her gaze.

"We barely met, but she was not open to the suggestion, and I respect that."

He stops there, to gauge the reaction.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 155):

"Well, we've barely met even less," the bard answers pleasantly. "But I'd like to think with time we will come to know each other. Hmmm. Do you think we've all finished shopping?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 156):

"Indeed. My cash reserves were empty, so I am not here for shopping."

He bid the merchant good day, and started off, inviting those done with shopping to continue with him, allowing others to have a more private discussion with the shopkeeper.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 157):

Roahfustion walks with Troels and asks, "Is your dwarven friend aways on the quiest side?"

Blythe looks for some warmer clothes with little success.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 158):

"We have only met recently. In fact, until yesterday, I was traveling alone. Best if he answers that question."

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 160):

"Well, that's something we have in common, Master Troels. Or may I call you Troels? Or would you prefer soemthing else?" persists the smiling Roahfustion. "And have you had previous adventures with any of the girls?"

======
OOC: Happy to keep nattering but also happy to move along.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:03, Fri 08 Oct 2021.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 161):

Likewise, might skip over the details of the discussion. Troels is happy to be called anything suitable that is not offensive, and he has a rather thick hide. He has not adventured with anyone here before, comes from a middle class merchant family and has a brother far south (I presume...GM can confirm details). He has recently been working as a caravan guard.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 162):

Having indulged herself in conversation with Troels, Roahfustion looks aroiund for the party's resident dwarf, intending to excercise her dwarven smalltalk.

======
OOC: Is the dwarf in sight?

He should be there, his head poking above the tables.

The Player has been busy with RL though.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 164):

After having a short conversation with the dwarf the bard maves back to Creidne, "So where are we headed next?" She cranes her neck around obviously looking at the skyline. "Next village is Thulinar. That where we're headed? Going to cross the Styx? Or maybe follow it?"

======
OOC: @GM - Thx!
This message was last edited by the player at 22:03, Sat 16 Oct 2021.

"That village sounds like a good place to stop. I'm going to need some men and supplies long before I get to the Southern lands."

Creidne looks up at the sky.

"It was a dream that started me on this journey. It's telling me to head south. How we get there I have no real clue. We have several lands between us and where my dreams tell me to go. "

In reply to Creidne (msg # 166):

"Hate to rain on your parade, but I think we are going to need some cash before you will get more men. Good to start by keeping the ones you got if you plan on raising an army."

The big man lumbers on, dwarfing even the humans much as the humans dwarf the dwarf, so the dwarf beside him looks very small, possibly comical, though it is doubtful either of them are particularly open to the humour at this point.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 167):

"So you you have items to trade or sell? Or debt to call in?" inquires Roahfustion. "Otherwise, Creidne, I presume it's press on to Thulinar and looking for employment or questing; which is to say, resolving other folks' problems?"
This message was last edited by the player at 08:33, Sun 24 Oct 2021.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 168):

"I would normally hire myself out as a caravan guard, but she has promised at least similar pay or more. I am just waiting to see it."

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 169):

"I have often sung for my supper," laughs Roaffustion, "but as Creidne's leading, it seemed only polite to enquire first."

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 170):

"If I tried singing my supper I could be convicted of blackmail!" chuckled Troels.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 171):

"Well, if you can count, I can teach you to play an instrument," she replies, eyes a-twinkle.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 172):

"One-on-one lessons? I am a slow learner...I kept getting distracted and loosing count!"

His smile reflects her twinkling eyes...

"Perhaps we should discuss that as we walk. You probably should evaluate my sense of rythme before you make such promises."

"We can evaluate that somehow, I'm sure," she smiles back, starting to get a sense of the tough looking fellow. "So, as we walk, tell me which is left foot and which is right, and then count your steps to 10 as you walk." She looks at him with a No-honestly-I'm serious-look that all mothers have perfected.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 174):

"You want me to march? LEFT....LEFT....LEFT....LEFT....LEFT RIGHT LEFT....LEFT....LEFT....LEFT"

His posture stiffens for a few step, but by the time he got past 10 he relaxed again.

"That is enough...not something I am big into. Not a showpony myself..."

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 175):

"That's absolutely enough. And better than a lot of folks that like to wave sharp pieces of metal around thinking that means they're 'cutting edge'," she smirks. "No, seriosuly, I wan't making a joke of you. In passing, you've proven you're capable and willing to follow instruction. Without that, I couldn't teach you anything. Now as you can do that much, then you're capable of playing a very basic musical intrument. When you can do that, if you want, and you work hard at it, you could become reasonable with a more advanced one. Not saying it's easy and certainly not instant, but it's possible. Another time we can examine your rythm and timing." She goes dead pan. "Tell me, if you don't mind me asking, about how tall are you?"

After listening intently to Troels ' responses, Roahfustion then looks round for Creidne. "Maybe we can get her, I mean Creidne, of course, to share her plan for funding with us. Even if it's just, 'Don't have one yet.' Unless you know a reason not to ask?"?

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 176):

"Had a lot of trouble measuring accurately, but about 8 feet. Perhaps a drum is what I could do best.

I hardly know her, so I don't see any reason not to ask, but I am not so socially aware. I probably should care more, but not a lot of reason to be too pretensions."

"While I do have my own funds they are not enough for what I have in my head.  I can afford a few men for a month or two. Longer than that I have no money."

Creidne admits. She doesn't seem to be Ashamed of this fact.

"My idea is to form a warband yes but supplement what we make by the sword with trading.  While I am not good at it I know some who are. I might be able to recruit one of them to help with this endeavor. We have a Dwarven kingdom in our mountains and I know that there are other Dwarven lands along our path. We might be able to arrange to transport goods for them."

In reply to Creidne (msg # 178):

"So for the immediate future, a clan of raiders to raid?"

In reply to Creidne (msg # 178):

"Sounds like a plan," smiles  Roahfustion, trying to read Creidne's eyes. "The sun's not waiting for us, so shall we move along into Thulinar?"

======
OOC: Happy to skip forwards into town, if that works for you.

The crew moves along and finds Thulinar late that afternoon.
Carefully laid out with square blocks and streets going SW-NE or SE to NW.
You count 23 such blocks from the hill top as you start to descend.

Main Roads lead up to the hill you are coming down, too a valley in the nearby mountains and opposite you to the distant river.
The Trail along the shore of the Styx is muchless developed.

As you get close, you note quite a bit of work going on as folks ready for the coming night.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 181):

"Well, here we are!" Roahfustion states unnecessarily. "Have any of you folks been here before?"
This message was last edited by the player at 08:43, Tue 26 Oct 2021.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 182):

Troels just shakes his head as he looks around. What work is being done to prepare for the coming night?

The shops are rolling barrels and displays inside, lamps are being lit and people moving about with baskets, likely moving toward home.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 184):

"This place hasn't changed much. Not that you'd expect it," comments the bard as she eyes the goings on. "Been here a few times," she explains. "I'd recommend 'The Lion's Share' for tonight. Not so keen on the 'Cat's Meow'."

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 185):

Troels is happy with the advice, though not sure if he has spare cash to cover the costs...

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 186):

"It's this way," Roahfustion says and leads the way.

You don't seem to draw much attention excepting Blythe, Creidne and Kiley who are showng a bit more skin/leg than the women here.
Roahfustion leads you to the inn  toward the middle of the town. It seems nice and the smells say the food is decent too. They have  price list and menu posted near the door.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 188):

Having caught some game on the way in, Troels is not interested in the menu.

So what did you catch?
I'll grant you a small animal and a medium/bigger one.
How did you plan to prepare it?

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 190):

Actually I was going to go with a bunch of wild tubers like potatoes and a small deer. The deer would be gutted and roasted if there was time.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 191):

======
OOC: Don't you have to gut it when you get it or else it goes bad quite quickly?

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 192):

Yes, that is why it would be gutted, but only roasted if there was time, as stated above.

Field Dressing the deer is standard. The cavity is propped open to allow the carcass to cool as quickly as possible.
Roasting it would take Hours, so better you take it to the inn and barter it for food and room. If you only stay a day or two, they will likely give you a bit of coin as well.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 194):

That will work for Troels then!

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 195):

Roahfustion waits until Troels has finished bartering before she approaches the bar to see about performing here this evening.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:24, Fri 29 Oct 2021.

Well they do have a story teller for a part of the evening, but you can fill in afterwards; they'll offer you 10 pence and 30% of the proceeds while you are singing or entertaining. this is about what they offerd last time, but you had the whole evening and made a decent amount.  Not knowing how long the story teller is going to use, you could be agreeing to not much cash, as most folks start leaving around two hours oor so after sun down.

"Agreed," she says without hesitation but with a charming smile. A reputation for niggling over the triffling never helped. Saving that for the big stuff was best in Roahfustion's experience.

Later she disappears into a room or passage to get ready* to perform. Small changes, hair up, ruffled blouse, bright neckerchief. The performance covers a variety of songs, a splash of cleavage and a quart of leg, all washed down with choruses in the languages of any that she perceives known to audience members. She works the audience and underscores her name a couple of times with a very short introductory story, a verbal flourish really, to some of the songs. "...And here's a wonderful song, a love song between to an enchanted dragon, heard by Roahfustion on the eastern beaches under a full moon...",
                    [OOC: https://www.<nospam>youtube.com/watch?v=K08o44cr3ww]
"...called, 'Lead The Way'."

Roahfustion ends with her favourite, 'A Horse With No Name.'
Of course, an extra round of coinage could facilitate en encore with a little more displayed.

======
OOC: 09:04, Today: Secret Roll: Roahfustion rolled 12 using 3d6.  Singing 15.
And she additionally gains a +3 boonus to reaction (Attractive Appreance, Charisma, Reputation) and possibly +1 for *Fashion Sense.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:00, Sat 30 Oct 2021.

Creidne settles Her and Kiley's accommodations for the night.

"Blythe, would you care to join us for the night?"

Creidne offers.

"I have to make my acquaintance with the local Jarl. It's only fair to let him know that I am in the area and do not mean him any harm."

She is then distracted by Roahfustion's song. She seems to enjoy it and taps her foot to the beat.

In reply to Creidne (msg # 199):

Troels enjoyed the songs and is happy to share what food and drink he has, and likewise offers his room to share, preferably with females.

In reply to Creidne (msg # 199):

Yes Please, as I am low on coins.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:05, Mon 01 Nov 2021.

Right after this, the inn keeper asks her to sit and let he story teller do his thing. He turns out to be a man waiting by the stairs and does not seem to be too happy aabout following your act.

His stories are OK, but soon you see customers getting up and leaving... The inn keeper is becoming agitated and looks relieved when the story teller rises to take a break, Roahfustion, here is a silver, cover his absence and put some effort into it please.

The bard smiles sweetly, makes the coin disappear, and says, "My pleasure. Give me a short while, please. And then, perhaps, a nice introduction?" She goes back into the side room, lets down her hair, fusses with it to tease it into looking disheveled but good. With another ruffled blouse button undone and dress lacings lossened to high thigh Roahfustion smiles, knowing how she looks. She rearranges the trailing ends of the neckstaff so as to draw the eyedownwards, and applies a last touch of rouge to her lips, and then heads back to the stage.

Roahfustion spins a story, interwoven with song, that once there was an imp, a malicious little creature, that fancied itself a great singer, a marvellous performer. But one day the imp happened upon a performance of finest singer and performer in the land. The bard says, "What's her name, this finest of performers? Well, let's see, we can call her 'Roahfustion'." And she laughs, a self-deprecating laugh and distracts those who are interested by bending to adjust something imaginary on her shoe.  The story continues about how the imp pretends to be the finest performer, using her name, and spreading unpleasant untruths about her. Ending the tale, "And it happened that the finest of performers found out the actions of the imp and chased it across the land and it's said she still does so to this very day.." Striking up a few more boistrous chords, Roahfustion finishes with her favourite song about a nameless horse, then takes a pace forwards. "Thank you for being with me this evening; may your dreams be kind to you; and Good Night!" She makes a deep bow, and then leaves the stage.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:12, Mon 01 Nov 2021.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 203):

Troels will be a very vocal supporter of her, encourage aging others to join in...

During your songs and story, several come in, a couple who had left earlier.
The Inn Keeper is quite pleased as his sales recovered; he waved the story teller away until you were done, causing the story teller to get angry.
But when you finish,the Inn Keeper waves him up and he resumes, business dies down fairly quickly.

The inn keeper provides you 18 pence and offers a private room, if you will stay and entertain tomorrow as well.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 205):

After making the coinage disappear, she replies, "That's really gracious of you, Innkeep," Leaning on the counter to encourage his opinion, the bard continues, "I, Roahfustion, am not travelling alone, as I'm certain you noticed, so, please do excuse me, but I will need to consult. Hmm if you were able to offer another vacant room for my companions, I think they would definitely be more inclined to stay over. But, obviously, I can't read their minds. Anyway, is that, the additional room, something you could manage?"

When asking for the extra room for free Roahfustion rests her second forearm nonchalantly on the bar, elbows pinning her blouse in place, and takes a few deep breaths, causing some buttons to strain..

The Inn Keep admires the display If you are offering that for later, I may be able to work something out.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 207):

"That is a high price. I don't think we need to stay an extra night that much...but my dear, if you need companionship, you don't need to offer to a total stranger."

With a cheerful smile to the innkeep she says, "I'll consult," and goes across the room to the others. To Troels, "Hearing of an owl, have we? We can talk about that later." To Creidne, "Do you, and therefore we, having a burning need to stay here for another day and night?" Her dubious look, sheltered from the sight of the innkeep, might well be taken to mean she'd be estatic to hit the road straight after breakfast.

"No not really. I would like to make myself known to the local powers that be as soon as I can. maybe they have some news that would be useful to us."

Creidne admits. She is used to being the center of attention. However, she enjoys not having every guy in the room trying to get into her pants.

In reply to Creidne (msg # 210):

What makes you think Troels was not at the bar getting every drink his deer earned him?

In reply to Creidne (msg # 210):

"Is the 'local powers' the Jarl, Creidne? Or did you have others in mind?" Roahfustion asks to make sure she had it right. After listening to Creidne's response, she says, "I'll see what I can find out," and nips back into the place where she'd got ready for performing. Once there, her hair goes up into a ponytail, the skirt lacings get a quick tightening and a blouse button fastened. Goos, adds a little class, she thinks.

Roahfustion re-enters the common room and heads back to the the bar, innkeep and Troels. "Anyone want to get a girl a drink?" she asks innocently and then, with a sideways wink to Troels, engages with the innkeep. "Depends how things go, you know? But it's very possible. We can talk more tomorrow  morning. Anyway, for now, would you like me to do the rounds? By that I mean go talk to your customers, table by table, gently reminding them what a great place this is and that the service is unbelievable and so forth. Happy to do that, no charge, part of the service and all that, but I'd need you to tell me a couple of things about what's news around here. What's been going on, you know. Not including my little performances, of course. Then I have something to chat about with your customers." While a the bar Roahfustion looks for a chalk board or equivalent to try and figure out how much a room costs here, and also the price of drinks.

If the innkeep accepts, then the bard works the tables, small talk, nice place to be, good entertainment and so forth, slipping in the odd comment about local news, trying to update her knowledge of Current Affairs.

***
When all is done, she says to Troels, "OK, are you ready to go to the room?" She raises an eyebrow that her companion can see but is blindside of the innkepp.

======
OOC: Just in case:
01:10, Today: Secret Roll: Roahfustion rolled 9,8 using 3d6,3d6.  Creent Affairs-People 12; -Regional 12.

Sorry to compress so much into this post this but I was concerned the scene might be dragging for other players.
 
This message was last edited by the player at 01:15, Thu 04 Nov 2021.

The Inn Keeper likes your plan and fills you in, although it's largely gossip with little of import.

Sleeping in the common room is 2 CP ($2); rooms range from 6 CP to a SP.
Small beer is a CP, Ale or beer is 2 CP.  Wine and such is expensive and not posted.
Soup and Bread is 1 CP, Stew and bread is 3 CP. Roast fowl or meat is 15 CP and up.
Morning Tea and bread with cheesee and sausage is 2 CP for a small, or 3 CP for a larger serving with a boiled egg.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 213):

What did Troels get for his deer? Enough to be generous?
This message was last edited by the player at 03:42, Thu 04 Nov 2021.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 214):

After a small-talking' circuit of the room's clientele Roahfustion lets Creidne know that unfortunately she wasn't able to glean anything of substance.

When Troels is ready to retire for the night, the bard bids the innkeep goodnight and heads off towards what she expects to be a welcoming room. Once in the room she tall at the tall warrior, "Now, did you want to talk?"




======
<u>OOC: I'm traveling for the next couple of days so might not be ble to post. The above is 'just in case' so that I'm not holding things up.</u>

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 214):

He got a nice room with double bed and a 1S, 6P ($26) he also got a free dinner (stew) and 3 mugs of Beer/Ale on the house.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 215):

The room was free for Troels.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 217):

Troels will share one of the beers with Roahfustion, and definitely his room! However, having received some cash, he will thank her for her generous offer, but suggest she keep the cash, preferring her other offer much more. The night might be long and steamy though...

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 218):

"Very well, Troels, I will accept your offerings in the spirit of reciprocation for my entertainments on stage and for that your offering is on the generous side but not outrageously so, and for that I thank you and graciously accept. So, do I get choice of which side of the bed? or do you prefer the floor?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 219):

Like many men, he cares less about which side of the bed he is on!

Next morning, he rises late (well, publicly), and is ready to move on.

Most everyone else is already down stairs and finishing up a break fast.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 221):

Having pushed her washcloth around as necessary, Roahfustion pulled on her remaining things, boots and so forth, picked up her instrument and said, "Come on, Troels, or there won't be any sausages left."

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 222):

"True enough. I might have to catch something else myself if there is nothing left! But you know there will always be one sausage with your name on it!"

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 223):

She looks shocked and just scuttles off to breakfast.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 224):

"Too much...again." muttered Troels to himself as he followed her.

Creidne Buys a room for the night and has a nice sleep. Getting up she cleans herself up and looks at her companions.

"OK girls, what are your plans for after breakfast?"

Well based on what was said last night, I think getting out of town. i gather the Inn Keep was admiring Roahfustion's other assets and making propositions she wasn't interested in.
I did hear some talk of a group down near the river looking to go south and see what was to be had; a couple of potential ruffians behind me who weren't as quiet as they thought they were, were talking about it. Sounded like a short days hike to the river, but the men might be more trouble than benefit. One of them was talking about how he'd like tobend you over the table and show you what a man can do, the other talked him out of trying. Likely the Ale talking, but it does tell you how they think.

Creidne looks at Blythe and then her axe.

"I will let Roahfustion handle her own issues. The group heading south sounds interesting. As for the man who wished to bend me over. There is a reason that the men of my tribe and even the neighboring tribes didn't even think about trying that. I've killed men in battle and taken their heads."

She picks up her Axe.

"I'm almost hoping that we are followed out of town.  We can then eliminate a threat to others. As for those heading south we should possibly observe them before we make contact with them."

Roahfustion, trailed by Troels, arrives to see Creidne and Blythe in ernest conversation and switches her attention to the remains of breakfast. There's enough to cause her to nod. Taking a seat, she asks, "Sleep well, ladies? What's the plan for today?"

The group gathers their things and heads south for the river. As they approach, Creidne points to a small rise off a half mile to the right and the group heads over there and goes in among the brush. It's almost as if it was designed for you, there is a small spring gurgling out a steady small stream of water. The center is mostly clear of brush due to the trees, but the brush around the edges conceal you nicely.  You find the the far side provides a decent if somewhat distant view of this group of men's campsite. You are quickly glad you didn't go there as it seems unplanned, dirty and out of control. Brute force is the law, such as it is.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 230):

Which group of men is this?

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 231):

Mentioned in msg #228 ... Roahfustion was the source, if you ask.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 232):

Ah, so these are the one others wanted to take command of, not the one looking to be trouble for my friend that I would have to deal with...yet.

Roahfustion will happily answer any queries from Troelsy about recent events.

======
OOC: I actually still haven't a clue as to whether the men's campsight is a) bandits (or somesuch) theat weren't in town, b) folks that wanted to give Roahfustion aggravation or c) folks that wanted to give Creidne aggravation. Clarification would be kind, assuming we can tell.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 233):

Some of these were those who wanted to be trouble for your new friend. Others wer not there, but they look like a mob and you'd expect little good of them.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 234):

Right. How many are there?

Creidne looks over the camp. She Shakes her head and tries to slip away from the camp.
(20:19, Today: Creidne rolled 11 using 3d6.  Stealth vs. 8.)

As she crawls backwards her knee puts her weight on a dry branch that snaps loudly.

Creidne looks around to see if anyone heard that.

In reply to Creidne (msg # 237):

OK, Lets stop ... you were on a wooded hilltop about 200 meters from this camp of ruffians. Did I miss something? Did you approach that camp?

"I can try and get loser if you want?" offers Roafustion. She looks at Troels and then the others, "You any good at sneakiness, at being quiet?"

There is little but knee high grass to hide in.

The bard looks at the knee-high grass, thinking of the grass stains if she tried crawling in it.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 241):

"I have some skill in hiding, but with my size I would be crazy to leave the tree line. Besides, if they want to get cute, this is the best place to hit them from. Observing them from here, at least in daylight, should give us what we need to know."

She nods, it made sense. With a glance and a smile she tries to let Troels know how she appreciated his wise council.

Roahfustion looks across to Creidne  to see what she wants to do. The other women seemed to follow her lead. The dwarf, well, he just seemes to not say a whole lot.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 242):

Troels gives Roahfustion a smile as he readies his crossbow, finding a nice tree or branch he can rest it on as well as use for cover, if needed.

Range penalty,
100-150 yds, -10;
150-200 yd, -11;
200 yd +, -12. Not likely to be shooting just yet.

While they wait and watch Roahfustion quietly gives the tall fellow a tutorial about musical theory: scales, haromonies and projection.

They make a fair bit of noise that night although it dies down before midnight.
Come morning a few of them are making the others come out and practic sword drills; any who have some experience with swords shake their heads as her is little talent and appears too be the blind leading the blind.
Leadership is not evident, more like a bunch of Orcs where the biggest meanest one is in charge.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 245):

Troels tries to keep an eye on the rabble, but his tutor is far more interesting, and he invited her to spend the night in his tent after the tutorial.

Come morning, he can't help but wonder if there was a guy there he would find a challenge...

Roahfustion looks at Creidne , smiles and asks, "Did yoy sleep well? Would you like me to fix breakfast? And what do you want to do after that?"

"I slept well. I would love to sneak down there, kill their sentry and then slit their throats as they sleep."

Creidne states darkly. it's obvious that she wants to lay waste to the camp.

"Longspear, what did you notice as those men were practicing with their swords?"

In reply to Creidne (msg # 249):

"They are not very capable. But if you want an army, they might just be perfect. Smart soldiers are difficult to manage."

"No they are not very well trained. Father would send them out to the fields as incentive to train harder. Those that did well in practice got rewarded while those that did poorly plowed the fields or fed the pigs."

Creidne Replies. She smiles at something.

"And yes I have ended up helping out a farmer a time or two. There are reasons I take my training seriously."

"So what do you want to do then," prompts Roahfustion. "Just wait out the day until nightfall?"

"While they are currently a threat to us there would be no Honor in killing them all."

Creidne admits. She holds up her axe. It's pattern wielded head takes on a watering sheen.

"On the other hand I am going to need men who can be trained and are willing to listen to me. I sort of want to beat them into submission."

I think they might be a start for your Army, although they are not so very impressive just now.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 254):

"Would challenging the leader to a dual work?"

"It might if I kill him in a brutal enough manner."

Creidne states. She looks over her axe.

"Right now I am just a pretty hole to stick themselves in. I am going to have to convince them that I am blessed by the Morrigan and to face me is to face their deaths. I am good but I am not the best, that would be my great grandfather, Hrafen the berserkr. it is said that he had slain dozens of men. His battle frenzy was so powerful that no man could stand before him. However in his rages he could feel no wounds and in the end he died while taking his foes with him."

In reply to Creidne (msg # 256):

"You want me to challenge him?"

Well none of us are much impressed with what we have seen, he is certainly strong, but seems clumsey even to my eye and I am no great judge of martial skills. I would also not do a battle to injure or kill, better to use training weapons where only bruises to body and repuatation are suffered.

"Would it help if I offered a poem or song celebrating the victor?" offers the bard.

She shrugs, Maybe if you just offered to sing and tell stories around the fire at night?

"I could certainly do that, Blythe, thank you for the suggestion. How do you want to do it though, Creidne?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 261):

"Sing them a song to get them to serve you? This I have never seen done before...is it even possible?

I still think you will need someone to beat the living crap out of their finest. As you have noticed, I doubt that should be too hard."

"The song, or poem, was to imortalise the victor," answers  Roahfustion. "It is possible but I don't really indulge in mind control. Well, if you feel one of them would be easy, they'll think the same. Could you take a pair of them? Or perhaps if one refuses you, he could be shamed to take on a girl?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 263):

"If they are scared of a one-on-one, then perhaps they should just submit. If they want to take on a girl, perhaps I should beat the snot out of them to teach them to treat ladies the right way...a lesson they may well need to learn the hard way anyway."

"Longspear has a point. They should not be attacking me. If I beat them then they would be shamed. "

Creidne looks over her ax again.

"My issue is that I am a woman in a warrior people. I am good with weapons and have trained with them since I was a young girl. My place will be besides my husband when I do take one. If he is at war, I am to be the one who manages his kingdom and defends it if I must. This rabble is not worth slaughtering to a man. I would say that Longspear acts as our messenger. "

As one man, he is bound to be challenged, better we all, or at at least most of us walk down and make it clear that we expect to be in charge and make them into something besides rabble. A few may run, but some will stay and start a small force, then our skill and success becomes that which recruits new men to us.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 266):

"Right. In that case I will head. down to find the leader to challenge him."

He gathers his armour, buckler and pickaxe, leaving his pack, to prepare to do so.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:02, Tue 14 Dec 2021.

"I think Blyth speaks wisdom. We should all go," says Roahfustion.
"I would be proud to stand with and between you," she says looking at Troels and Creidne.

And I can bring my sling and spear.
This message was last updated by the player at 02:59, Fri 17 Dec 2021.

"So, how do you feel about having us women coming down with you?" asks the bard. "But did anyone notice if they have bows or crossbows?" Roahfustion smiles encouragingly at Blythe, who seems to have said more words in the last short while than in the whole of the previous day.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:22, Sat 18 Dec 2021.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 270):

"I don't mind..."

"Then Kiley and I will act as your shield maidens. We will make sure that you do not have to worry about a dagger in your back."

Creidne and Kiley step up next to Troels. Their shields not only protect them but would keep someone from being able to flank Troels.

"Where do you want Blythe and I?" Roahfustion  asks.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 273):

"Beside me.

If you act as sheild maidens, how will they later accept your leadership? I need to be your champion, not your master."

Well said and wise... we shall all form on either side of Creidne, if she wishes to lead this group, Troels and Kiley to her right and Roafustion and I to the left. 

Roahfustion lets Blythe choose whether she or Blythe are furthest from Creidne.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 276):

Troels would prefer to be beside Roahfustion if he is given the option...

No problems, Blythe will form outside Kiley on the right side.

Roahfustion smiles at Blythe and says quietly, "We can talk later."

Blythe smiles and nods as she heads for the opposite side of the little line thatis forming.

"Ok lets get this over with..."

Creidne looks over to the camp of ruffians. She needs warriors but these are just rabble. She wished for a proper warband and an enemy worthy of an honorable battle.

She raises her axe.

"Lets get their attention."

I think just walking toward them should do that in a minute or two.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 282):

"Indeed. Let's just march in and challenge the leader. Why give them time to prepare?"

He was not impressed with her leadership skills so far...

The bard asks, "By the way, I haven't noticed anything obvious, but is anyone sporting and wounds?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 284):

"Not yet, but intend on handing a few out..."

"I'm sure you are," she replies simply.

The Group starts walking down, breaking the wood line... The Dwarf doesn't seem to be with you in this.
You have moved 50 meters or more before someone points you all out, it takes a few more minutes before a small group  comesforward about 15 Yards/meters to meet you.

Three men, one is to the front, reasonably muscular from here (you are still 50 yards/meters away) and two large bruisers behind him. Both have some bruises, but you'd guess they are the enforcers.  Behind them in the camp, a bigger group startsto form among the Mob of tents and lean toos.

OOC- Sorry to be slow, RL is interrupting.

Roahfustion glances at Creidne anticipating her to take the initiative.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 288):

Troels eyes of the biggest guy and slams his hand into his fist, clearly wanting a piece of him but also waiting for Creidne to take the initiative.

As you advance you realize that Creidne is hanging back and Kiley is talking to her quietly. Great timing as the guys from below are smiling and closing on you.  So the Line is now Blythe, Roahfustion and Troels.

Shit, hell of a time to get cold feet.

She loads a stone in her sling, gives it a whirl and launches it ... It hits the big guy on the left square in the lower chest, he grunts out a bunch of air and doubles up trying to catch his breath.
She stuff the sling in her belt and puts her spear in her right hand, shield up...

The big guy in front glances back and then looks forward  Dat warn't nice, I'll paddle yer ass fer that before I use it fer me ...

At this point you have closed to bad breathe range.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 290):

"I always questioned her leadership..." Troels .utters, before raising his voice.

"HOLD OFF. I am here to issue a challenge to whatever you have that passes for a leader. If you beat me in single combat, we will be yours. If I beat you, you all will follow my direction and we get to go raiding. Or we just all fight, and no one gets anywhere."

The big guy in front laughs... an I get da blonde.

Blythe responds My spear is longer and sharper then yours dumb butt. And i think I know how to use either better than you do as well.

Roahfustion starts singing, a song in testament to Troels speed and prowess in combat.

======
OOC: It's aiming at being a Haste spell, but timed to go effective just before they fight.. Not used this before but would give +1 to Speed, Move & Dodge.

In case the roll is needed:
21:35, Today: Secret Roll: Roahfustion rolled 13 using 3d6.  Haste 11.
OK, failed. Never mind. I think that's still -1 FP

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 293):

"You have to win in single combat first, dumb ass. So you accept then?"

He steps forward, axe and shield ready.

Since we don' do much if we'r dead, we do skill tests wit practice weapons you big oaf... we have some down in the camp. That goes for Blondie too.

You missed the what I said, fool, you mess with me and I'll kill you. I killed the last asshole who tried that, with my with my bare hands.

Roahfustion grimaces at Blythe and then nods approvingly. She wants to sometime learn the full story.

Yeah, but I ain' a skinny 15 year old. I'll teach you a thing ur two, piss ant.

Anyone who looks at Blythe can see she is seething and very much "On Point".

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 294):

"You scared to fight to the death, or are you just surrendering? Or you just want to fight until one of us goes unconcious? I can do that...but enough talk!"

He approaches to striking distance...

The Man backs up hey we didn't come to fight... we wuz gonna jus talk. This would appear to be the casas they are not wearing armor or carrying much in the way of weapons.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 300):

"Well the way you talk to my friends says you want to fight. Perhaps you should go get prepared to follow through with your words then. Or very publicly eat them and get down and grovel for forgiveness...."

You ain' man enough ta make me do that!  But he is backing away out of range now.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 302):

He laughs.

"You day that, but you run away...go get your gear and we will see!"

The man turns and moves down the hill quickly  dey gonna attack us all, get redy ta fight 'em

The group of men sem to mill about a bit and slowly a few peal off and go to their tents and put on gear.


At this point Kiley brings her chariot up and stops, speaking loud enough for all to hear she says  Creidne has a ring her father gave her, it is imbued with his spirit. She said he has been struck low by something and she, as his heir, needs go back to her clan with haste. I will of course see her there as quick as I can.

She slaps the reins on the horses backsides and races back up the hill

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 304):

"Not enough of a man for one on one combat? Coward!" Troels bellows after him after overhearing what they said. Turning to his friends, he asks

"Are they even worth fighting?"

"Well, Troels, with Creidne departed, doesn't our need for these men rather evaporate?" queries Roahfustion.

She takes a few paces over to Blythe, "Look, I get that you're angry. But we don't have to fight all men. Like I said, we can talk later. There's something, a tale, my story really, that I'd like to share with you. Maybe you'd help me?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 306):

"Perhaps. But we came to challenge. We could not just back out because a woman had to leave. The challenge still had to be issued. We could loot the spineless mongrels, but not sure it is worth the effort, but a pre-emtive strike might be enough to stop them returning the favour..."

You note some chatter down in the crowd, which seems to have "Big Guy" getting a bit red in the face, he is obviously angry. More men start to drift away ... after a few minuttes you realize that those guys aren't putting on Amor, they are packing thir gear up, taking down tents etc.
There is a lot of yelling this way and that, but no question that there is a split in views.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 306):

Oh I am irritated with that buffoon, he is the sort that is a danger to every woman, but I have no intention of attacking them all or even going close to that place. If a bunch come this way, I will withdraw ... a mob of such is dangerous in a group and fodder one on one. We can chat anytime. Creidne seemed to think I ws her girl too, but I never really was and am glad to let her go her way. In someways she was little different from thos men down there I suspect.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 308):

"I suspect so. Noting what is happening, I suggest waiting and watching. Soon, folk will realise we were just here to challenge the big coward, and his refusal to accept will speak for itself. Either way, this group would soon cease to be a significant threat to us.

But with our supposed leader gone, we need to come up with a new plan for our own group..."

Nothing good for me back up where we came from, so I'm thinking to carry on in a smaller way then what Creidne had planned ... wich did sound a bit pompous.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 311):

"Yeah, building a big army is fraught with problems, not in the least being the selection of targets. Smaller raids that can hit and disappear are a safer bet, as long as we choose what we hit. What targets do you guys want to aim for?"

"Let's cool this lot down first. We going to fight? Don't think we need to. Or we could actually try and talk and make friends with the lot that aren't with 'big-mouth'? I think that would be possitive. Or just distrust all of them totally and walk away?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 313):

"I distrust them, and I will be concerned about waking up with a knife if we do not deal with them. If that requires a fight, which, given their demeanor I suspect it does, then I will not shy away from it. But it might be better if it not. But showing weakness is a guarantee of a need to fight."

Little Sahudese guy comes ambling over the rise. He sees the lot of you and decides to pause and see what's what.

"So if they're splitting up into two antagonistic groups, maybe we can growl at the group with the mouthy fellow and get closer, recruit if you like, the other faction. Only if you want to do that, Troels. I haven't any strong desire to raise a miniature army. But it's fine if you do," Roahfustion responds pithily.

"What do you think, Blythe? Your thoughts are important too!" She smiles and holds herself in an open pose, warmly inviting comment.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:07, Thu 13 Jan 2022.

I see nothing I wish to recruit to be honest

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 317):

"To be honest, I would not trust these fellows either. But I don't see significant loot worth attacking them for either..."

"So let's split this lot into the good and the not so good. Face off the not so good. Then talk up the good,"she suggests. "If the good want to go with us then fine. Just splitting them makes folks a little safer."

She pauses for thought, "As to what we want to do or achieve, that's harder. I get it that you, Blythe, want to avoid being wherever or whatever you were before. Well we're here together for each other. We can talk later. There's a certain wannabe-bard that I'd want to track down. Need to get better with this sword to beat his arse though. Now, Troels, what do you want?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 319):

"Just to make a good living, maybe find a nice girl and settle down somewhere."

I don't care to deal with any of them... let's just go. There is someone standing out in the field over there too. Maybe they know something.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 321):

"If he wants to follow us, we can deal with him. But if we just cut and run, weay have to deal with them later under less favorable circumstances. Let finish what we started, and then move on."

Whatever, I don't see the value in it, but I'll cover you.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 323):

What is going on in the camp?

Well there is a lot of yelling and men are packing up and showing signs of leaving ... in fact  a growing number seem to be going that route, even some who put their armor on are now taking it off and packing. In fact one of the two goons with "The Big Guy" is starting to pack up their stuff as well. Looks like 'Mr Hero', who keeps glancing your way, isn't interested in sticking around to deal with you alone, either...

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 325):

"Looks like this problem will solve itself. Lets just wait until 'Mr Hero' buggers off, then we can do likewise, and their coherence as a band wll cease to be a threat to us."

I like that plan, other than having to wait for this band of to get packed up and gone. I guess the guy over there has decided to not join anyone and just watch.

In fact you can already see the first groups leaving, 3-4 men with a pack animl generally although at least one group of two walks out carrying all they have.

"Well, we've done one good thing. One less group to trouble innocent folk," comments Roahfustion. "So, what next?" Any plans? Or are you content just to wander with me while I try to repair damage left by the wannabe bard?"

Seeing one bunch packing up and leaving, Baka decides to stand up, brush off his trousers, and amble on down to the remaining folk.

Sounds like something  to do until something better comes along... and we look to have interested that fellow on the ridge, he's coming our way now.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 330):

"Could be. But he does not look local."

He watches the new arrival as well.

Roahfustion smiles and nods at Blythe, "Thank you," and then quietly sings* .
She turns to observe the newcomer.



======
<u>OOC: /u>
*Song<: https://www.<nospam>youtube.com/watch?v=mUolWNHxRiM

09:15, Today: Roahfustion rolled 11 using 3d6.  Sing 12.

Baka approaches, smiling amiably. Tug the brim of his hat, slight bow sweeping to address them all. Thought I saw a storm brewing. But no rain. Things look to be clearing up.

Letting the song drop the half-elf looks up and then responds, "Small talk? Or you're a weathercock?"

She looks at the fellow uncertain what to make of him but continues nonetheless. "I am  Roahfustion and my friends are Blythe and Troels. Who are you and what's your story?"

Even if the clothes hadn't given it away, the 5'6" man is obviously Sahudese, although his Anglish is perfect. Sum Dum Goy. Out seeing sights. Help where I can, in the hopes I'll be the better for it.

She replies in fluent Sahudese, "Well, welcome to these lands. These good people are my friends. Those folks over there are trouble makers, bullies and molesters of the helpless, but it seems we have dispersed them."


Roahfustion switches back to Anglish, "So, what shallwe do next? Head for the next town? It's this way.." She points.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 332):
Must be really hard to sing that without any back up ;-)