The upstarts of the Red Pit gallop across the rough hills of Koth, savoring freedom from the saddle as they follow guide Ayan who imparts that he is a chief of a small village in Khoraja, the small desert kingdom to the West separating Koth from Shem.  His men have raided Kothic and Shemitish caravans for years until their king grew to suspect that his people held back more than the agreed upon portion of the spoils.  Ousted from their land Ayan eventually bargained to surrender and suffer the punishment their ruler had unfairly laid down.  Yet he spits in the memory of watching as twenty of his men were put to the sword and the meager belongings of his people taken.  Then, much as yourselves, Ayan found himself swinging a pick at the bowels of the Red Pit.

By nightfall you are leagues away from the Pit and finally able to halt for the night but Ayan cautions that there will be no safety for days yet.  He urges only a few hours rest before pressing on by night.  The horses have allowed you greater range than the slaves forced to flee on foot but there will be no true safety while you remain within the kingdom of Koth.  The hills you travel through will give way to gentler terrain in another 2 days.

Camped in a steep vale between two of the land's hills, you give over your lives as slaves to those of fugitives!

You are in the barren Kothian Hills with only the supplies you managed to scavenge before fleeing the Red Pit, possibly pursued by enemy forces.

Each character may make 1 roll to describe their focus for the day as you travel (Survival, Herbalism, PER, Animal Handling, Stealth, etc...).

Each character may make 1 roll to describe their focus during your rest hours (Survival, Herbalism, PER, Healing (Paramedics), Animal Handling, etc...)

Injured characters are unable to recover BODY unless they are able to rest for at least 8 hours.   Healing is able to reduce this time by 2 hours.  Herbalism can reduce this further and may even restore 1 BODY per wound if beneficial herbs can be located or purchased.

Let us see what the fates bring to your ragged band:  Describe your travel and rest actions for the 1st day of your freedom!
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:55, Tue 01 Oct 2019.

Once the animals were ready for travel, Niamh does her best to find good healing herbs and plants along their path with little success.

20:22, Today: Secret Roll: Niamh rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,3,6.  Herbalism (11-).

As the sun drew down toward the horizon, she had grown frustrated at her inability to find anything to assist in their recovery. Still, she had wounds that needed tending...as did some of the others. She made sure to take care of herself first, before moving on to the others. She seemed to have some success, despite lack of significant materials.

20:29, Today: Secret Roll: Niamh rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,2,6.  Healing (Paramedics) (12-).

It was clear that Tiberio was concerned about the horses; welfare and readiness for long travel. Water in the early days.

The horse dung itself was a sign of their passing.

During the rest hours, it was rest and being aware of what may be out there, looking at a hill slope down into valleys, waiting for riders, or the sounds of to often calling bird or ground animals. That, and talk. learning Kothic, as everyone else seemed to be in agreement, Kothic was best and most known in their numbers.

20:42, Today: Tiberio rolled 12,12 using 3d6,3d6 with rolls of 6,4,2,5,4,3.
Day, Animal Handle 12-, 12
Rest, PER 12-, 12

This message was last edited by the player at 03:43, Tue 01 Oct 2019.

The canny barbarian fills his time during travel with trying to find water and much needed food, even if it be fruit, for this group of survivors. Although he has little success he is not discouraged. Time enough to properly hunt once pursuit was thrown off. Once in camp, Marduke continues to learn Kothian as he sweeps the perimeter, seeking signs of danger or opportunity.



00:00, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 14 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,6,2.  Travel Activity, Survival 12-.

23:59, Yesterday: Marduke the Red rolled 3 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,1,1.  Rest Activity, Per 13-. Critically made by 10!!

As the group rode Chang Jun spoke to the others as he tried to learn another barbaric tongue. He scanned the route they followed also trying to find any herbs that would be of use. Unfortunately his luck was much the same as Niamh's.

09:24, Today: Chang Jun rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,3,6.  Herbalism 11-.

During their brief rest stop he scouted the area for possible herbs as the others rested or wounds were ministered to.

09:25, Today: Chang Jun rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,6,1.  Herbalism 11- (night).

Sarajen understood the need for secrecy, for hiding. If the soldiers were in pursuit, they would need to cover their tracks, hide their passage, conceal their presence. He spent most of his time making sure his and his companion's spoors were not detectable. At least not at first glance. A group this large was bound to leave some sort of marking. The best he could hope for was to delay any competent scout enough to keep them within a few days' distance, not allowing them to catch up. He did this day and night.

Day Activity: Subterfuge - Keeping the team's tracks hidden, the team out of sight, 13-
09:14, Today: Sarajen rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,1,5.

Night Activity: Subterfuge - Concealing any evidence of the team's camp and resting place, 13-
09:15, Today: Sarajen rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,2,2.

After months of bad treatment and defilineg, Syssiah wanted nothing more than freedom and care. She'd ride with the small group, and realized how filthy they all looked. She encouraged each of them to talk about their stories, to let this cement the group more than the fight did. And she looked for small villages, or isolated house and huts, where they could find help, food, baths, anything to help them survive.

And get alot of Rest, while been alert and vigilant.


08:33, Today: Syssiah rolled 7 (with 2 body) using 3 with the Hero (Champions) system.  Stealth Roll 13-.


08:34, Today: Syssiah rolled 13 (with 3 body) using 3 with the Hero (Champions) system.  PER Roll 12-.

Your party breaks camp after a mere 6 hours of rest, no more can be chanced so close to the Red Pit.  Once more hooves thundered upon the limestone hills of Koth as Ayan directed the path South then Southwest.  The hot Kothic sun bakes the hills around them as the group makes slow but steady progress.

The princess and thief point the group toward rockier ground, the better to limit their mounts' hoof-prints.  It is a trick each has employed in the past for similar reasons and appears to work well.  Both Pict and Khitai attempt to keep watch for sighs of herbs which might be used to heal the wounded during the flight but neither spies a single useful plant in the rough, rocky area.  Perhaps this land so far from their homelands familiar plants are not found?  Chang in particular is distracted by holding tight to the saddle to simply remain upon his unfamiliar mount.  Meanwhile Tiberio touches the neck of his steed periodically, feeling the stress of the animal.  All seems well to the horsemaster yet once the group halts for rest he worries that the horses have strained themselves more than he anticipated.  Not a cause for concern...yet.  The Vanir's eyes rove for game throughout the day yet no opportunity presents itself by the time the day's light grows faint.  Fortunately each saddlebag hold rations...for now.  The waterskins will require filling soon.  The sad truth is the meal is better than any have enjoyed since they were cast into the Pit.

The act of riding and attempting to perform another task has been difficult for most.  Perhaps tomorrow will bring more success.

Remove 1 days ration from your sheet
Horses have light exhaustion

Once camp is set in a cleft Sarajen finds each are exhausted but busy themselves with purpose.  Niamh tends to the wounded, searching for signs of infection, worried at the swelling she sees.  Meanwhile Chang examines the scrub nearby, searching for signs to indicate a medicinal nature but none appear promising.  The watch is set and the group drifts off to sleep.  Tiberio's is without incident but Marduke is certain he hears the sound of hoofbeats during the wee hours of the morning somewhere off to the North.

Marduke earns the group 2d6 of Luck for his critical success.  I will maintain this pool and anyone may draw from it, as many dice at a time as they wish up to the pool's total.  Once a die of Luck is used it is gone.

As Niamh has Survival & KS: Flora & Fauna which can apply to this region she might find better luck searching for herbs than Chang (not to say that he cannot find useful plants, only that she has skills which complement her search).

Dawn is barely a thought before Ayan is up and urging haste.  Those experienced in Survival know that such a pace will wear on the body of both man and beast in time but there is a good argument to press on.

You have 6 hours of rest, again not enough to count as a day towards wound recovery.
1) Will you press on or wait the extra 2 hours?
2) When you ride, what will you focus on?  If you have the Riding skill, make a roll to negate any penalties while trying to focus on a separate task as you travel?
3) When you stop, what will you strive to do before bedding down.
4) For each time period (day & night), if you have a skill which might assist your main focus then please also roll it as Complementary skills.  For every 2 points you roll under your Complementary skill you reduce the difficulty of your main roll by 1.  NOTE: characters may assist each other

Group Luck Pool: 2d6
Group Unluck Pool: 0d6

Niamh is willing to push for an early start today for fear of pursuit, but warns against doing so the following morning. "We need to take of both ourselves and the animals if we are to make this journey. I understand we might be pursued, but if we're not careful, we'll die from exhaustion or exposure," she says, her concerns apparent in her expression and tone.

As the day progresses, she continues to seek promising herbs for treatment of wounds and ailments. She has better luck this day, finding some useful plants that should work.

22:34, Today: Secret Roll: Niamh rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,4,4.  Herbalism (11-)(did not use the complimentary skills of Survival:Desert and KS:Flora&Fauna because I read how that worked after I rolled).

That night, she tends to wounds, this time with the herbs to assist in mending their wounds and possibly treat some of the infection that seemed to be setting in with some. With her near insistance on staying a full eight hours of rest, she is hopeful to find some significant improvement in the group.

22:35, Today: Secret Roll: Niamh rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,5,5.  Healing (Paramedics) (12-).
This message was last edited by the player at 02:27, Mon 07 Oct 2019.

Sarajen agreed with Niamh. Keeping the pace was important, but not at the cost of their wellfare. In an attempt to expand his learning, he would spend part of his time observing and following her when she searched for suitable flowers and weeds, or at least what he thought were flowers and weeds. It was the beginning of his exploration into herbalism.

The rest of the time he would continue to pay attention to their "silent passage", making sure to cover their tracks as best as he could.

During the second night, though, he realized they needed to pay more attention. He suggested that they spend the following morning in a ruse: travel in a different direction for an hour, then turn away and conceal their tracks. With a measure of luck, and well devised false tracks, they might be able to throw any pursuers into a false path, and gain another day. It might be enough to earn them a full night's rest.


Sarajen will create a series of false tracks after the group would turn away, making it look like his passage was the passage of everyone else in the group. He will use Concealment in a reverse way to make it appear that tracks were concealed, but would still be moderately easy to find. But not too easy, as that might give the ruse away.

Day: Stealth
13:26, Today: Sarajen rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,1,6. (13-)

Day: Concealment Complementary Roll
13:27, Today: Sarajen rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,4,2. (13-)

Night: Stealth
13:28, Today: Sarajen rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,3,3. (13-)

As they travel, Marduke tries to perceive the sights and sounds of potential pursuit. When they make camp, he uses his knowledge of ambush techniques to try to hide evidence of their peesence.


Day activity

01:25, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,1,5.  Perception 13-.


Night Activity

01:24, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 14 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,5,3.  Tracking 12-, complementary to Concealment.

01:23, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,6,5.  Concealment 12-.

Sitting at the evening's camp, biting into the slowly dwindling rations, Sarajen moves next to the large red-haired man and sits.

[Language unknown: "Asttiooun..."]

Sarajen evaluates the large man with a smile.

[Language unknown: "Vorhouica. Te nasi tic ure th m a haniwi? Entho on urehisionlar rutth ma ng ismo u behaat eeil. Outpl for witredman e ingur erres?"]

Sarajen chews away without reservation, spitting out the parts that are too old or too long past their prime. He scratches his hair and pulls out a few insects that managed to get in there while sleeping last night. Travelling through the barren lands is an invitation to be nature's feeding trough.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:05, Sat 05 Oct 2019.

Getting perhaps one word in four, Marduke thinks he gets the jist of what is being asked. In broken words and phrases he says

It was clear that Tiberio wanted to keep exhaustion of the horses to a minimum, suggesting parts of the day where everyone should dismount and walk.

The Aquilonian had traveled a good bit, and his sense of living off the land was sharp, he tried to help as they traveled.

Day Activity
20:41, Today: Tiberio rolled 16 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,5,5.  Riding 13-, to negate -'s to Survival.

That damn thigh injury

20:42, Today: Tiberio rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,2,2.  Survival 12-, Complimentary to group Survival.

+1 to Group Survival

At night Tiberio rested and though he spent some time with the horses, he laid down and just tried to wash his wounds and accept any help offered, even if it meant strange smelling herbs and unusual practices from lands he did not know.

Night Activity
00:46, Today: Tiberio rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,2,5.
Animal Handler 12-, 11

Chang Jun spent the next day just trying to stay put on the horse, more than happy to get off and walk when needed.[Language unknown: "Ai oreof Po thoentcom il poadai i ad ei Ec iou etekri."]

During the evening when they made camp he checked those that were wounded. Though with little helpful to offer.

20:17, Today: Chang Jun rolled 14 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,6,2.  Khitai Healing 11-.

[Language unknown: Thiconsta neho ofolmi Ersoneillromman?] [Language unknown: Iv Anwallio?]

[Language unknown: Und Uncesi haver mi.

Casta Es arentereaeraand ore omhis il m wilstavir an o be. Iotha tr a i ncsan ce thiderant! Bleredtioain! Tio Ul aris un fi ou un. K pa diove ulwer on t el ill ri aslien nisi. It E wene foith werthaame linou p, nc.]

Sarajen smiled to himself, evaluating his present partners of the opposite gender. They were fine women. But this was neither the time nor the place for such ... niceties. They had to get away from the slavers first. Run first. Fun second.

Been not very skilled in outdoors survival or such, Syssiah would just do her parts, withut complaining, as much as it was possible. At least she was a decent rider, and had no wounds except on her feet. She'd tend to those and try to get as clean as possible, when possible, looking for any opportunity to bath herself in a river or lake.

The day passes in the increasing heat as the company moves West.  Chang is forced to give up his reigns to Tiberio so that the party's speed can be maintained.  In fact it improves slightly.  Sarajen spends time obscuring the groups passage, even laying a false trail or two, but it forces him to ride hard to catch up and he can tell it is taking a toll on his mount.

The members ride in a loose formation, attentive for opportunities in the land they pass through, and this day they find some success.  Near midday Tiberio follows a dip in the land which rewards him with a small trickle of water from a cliff face near the bottom.  Once the group is gathered they are able to refresh their waterskins and provide the horses with two hour's respite.  Sarajen's horse, in particular, enjoys the extra rest.  Near this same wellspring Niamh locates a small stand of yarrow and strips the plant of its leaves and flowers.  Once the last waterskin is filled and each have sated their thirst from the source directly the drum-beat of hooves continues.

Marduke keeps a watchful eye for signs of the riders heard the previous evening but neither they nor any other threat presents itself.

As daylight wanes a suitable campsite is located beneath worn away by an ancient stream which as long since dried up and vanished.  The sun winks away between the hilltops on your second days of freedom and though you gather beside the warmth of a small fire you take comfort that the jut of rock above limits the glow of your fire and the rations are filling if not ideal.  The horses are well tended by Tiberio while beside the fire Niamh shows Chang the herbs of this region and their uses.  The Khitai is accustomed to purchasing his ingredients in the market and he does not immediately grasp the differences required for wild, undried agents.  It is unnerving to watch the savage Pict chew the plants into a paste before rubbing it upon wounds and binding strips of cloth to hold them in place.

The horses are no longer exhausted.

There is enough herbs for the 3 wounded, each recovers 1 BODY.  Niamh has enough for 1 more day of treatment.  It will not immediately heal BODY but will allow the recipient to get by with only 6 hours of rest instead of 8 to count for a 1 toward recovery.

Again the night is quiet and without incident.

Before dawn's light has reached the group's hidden camp Ayan again urges them to their saddles.  He warns that today they will pass within sight of a small community to the South; the inhabitants are loyal to King Strabonus and should be avoided at all cost.  They will offer no shelter or trade to refugees from the Red Pit.

Day 3 begins.  Declare your day-time & night-time actions.

Sarajen continues to observe essential precautions for unobserved passage. With the village nearby, it was important they not be spotted. Although he did not believe news of their escape would have reached this far this quickly, it was still a good thing to not present any reason for the inhabitants to point at them to any hunters on their trail.

During the open moments, when things were easier, Sarajen approaches Chang Jun for conversation.

[Language unknown: "Dieesa Art. Whe isfoen nions a aiunet la mo art usmadi naen na. Ththmo erte oreho ectintion m redtiorat os ev?"]


Day Time: Stealth 13-
19:33, Today: Sarajen rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,2,6.

Night Time: Stealth 13-
19:34, Today: Sarajen rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,3,1.

As they travel, the healed Marduke's sharp barbarian senses keep careful wat h for indications of pursuit. As they make camp, Marduke uses his Survival lore to conceal the group's presence from prying eyes.

Daytime Activity

00:25, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,4,1.  Perception 13-. Made by 6.

Night Activity

00:25, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,1,2.  Survival 12-, complimentary to Concealment. Made by 5, adds +2 to concealment

00:25, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,2,3.  Concealment 12-(+2) = 14-. Made by 6.

Once they reached the desert, the strain may slow recovery.

It was enough that the herbs, strange and unknown, took hold and put his body back on the path to healing.

Here in this land, having a horse under him, Tiberio praised the fortune they had horses to ride. There was silent credit to Chang for allowing his horse to be led. While the language of Koth was spoken around him, Tiberio spoke to the horses in Hyperborean, soothingly and tenderly, with a dose of admonishment a father would chide a child with.
The tending and care of the animals was going to build a trust, which they would need if they were to travel into desert.

Day:
00:26, Today: Tiberio rolled 12,9 using 3d6,3d6 with rolls of 5,3,4,2,2,5.
Riding 13-, 12, remove travel skill impair,
Animal Handler 12-, 9

At night, rest. Eat and drink. Conversation helped along his adoption, his learning Kothic, mainly though it was rest and sleep, though a part of the watch he could prop himself up and listen.

Night:
00:30, Today: Tiberio rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,4,6.
PER 12-, 11 Day 3 Night.

During the day Chan Jun rode or walked as was needed. Though he was getting use to the beasts movements he was still far from being a competent rider and gladly accepted Tiberio's help. In the evening he assisted Niamh with those still injured.


To Sarajen [Language unknown: "Wh som oneforday ei nceth iouanyove p Sonastted vorntiwhiard unnghi ntiv'thas ers verkorest i Stiyinbleereted at os oueve areorerea. Whe ainbutles een Waatha nost enadse pl mevor vir wa k usrat alet?"]

To Niamh

09:29, Today: Chang Jun rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,6,2.  Healing (Paramedics) 11-.

09:29, Today: Chang Jun rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,1,5.  Khitai Healing 11-.

Niamh continued to actively search for helpful plants. It felt good to have her wounds on the mend and, even though her companions were not of her tribe, it felt good to be using her skills unfettered.

23:14, Today: Secret Roll: Niamh rolled 6 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,2,2.  Herbalism (11-) with a +2 for successes from KS(Flora) and Survival(Desert).
23:14, Today: Secret Roll: Niamh rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,2,3.  KS (Flora & Fauna).
23:13, Today: Secret Roll: Niamh rolled 6 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,2,3.  Survival (Desert).

While not specifically tending to the horses other than to assist in their readiness on turn in each day, she was worried about their condition. She spoke to Tiberio about it. "If there is something I can do to help, let me know. Our journey will be far less pleasant without these beasts," she said to him, giving him a nod and small smile.

She once again attended to the wounded with herbs and her strange, if somewhat effective, medicinal skills. Unfortunately, their weakened conditions and the difficulty of the environment and the stress of the pursuit seemed to make real recovery difficult.

(Not sure what's going on, but I can't seem to make it roll for my Healing(Paramedics) 12- roll Well, crap. After like four tries, I took it off "Secret Roll" and it took. It was a failure, but with Chang Jun's assistance, it was a success.
23:27, Today: Niamh rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,2,6.  Healing (Paramedics) (12-) with a +1 for Chang Jun Assist.)

She glances at Chang Jun as he spoke and assisted her, a furrow on her brow. He had some strange ideas, but she had been away from her lands long enough to see things she was unfamiliar with work. She supposed the spirits he spoke to were different than hers. With her wounds and exhaustion, she had to admit she was grateful for his assistance. "No bother. The spirits listen or they do not. The earth provides or it does not. Currently, they listen and provide," she offered with a small smile.

She hated to think that this was due to her perceived separation from the spirits for so long. Her time in captivity had weighed heavily on her and she wondered just how long it might take for her to be cleansed of its taint.

"Haha! My past. It is a very troublesome one. I've done everything that can be done under the sun, other than being a king, or things that are too vile to think of. I used to count many friends, but just as many enemies. I've traded, traveled, earned great wealth, and spent it all just as well, loved many women, been worthy of praise, and then spoken of with hate. I think you can think of me as a man of many talents, although a measure of skulduggery is my specialty, in so far as it can be used for a good reason," Sarajen winks in the firelight.

"But what is good or bad is always judged from different sides. I like to look at things from my own side. Others like to look at things from theirs. I ended in The Red Pit because a woman betrayed me. For coin! The nerve! I must even the scales now. Not because I hate her, but because the game is played for balance. If I can go into The Pit, so can she. Hahaha!"

Sarajen picked his iguana-roast-on-a-stick from the fire. It was cooked enough. He bit into it with gusto, letting the juices of the meat roll down his dirty beard. He relished every bite.

"Now, I've been a soldier, and lead men to fights, and to their deaths. I've kept women, as lovers and workers. I've been a shopkeep, and a guard. I've done many things. I've seen many summers..."

A frown came over his face. He started to shake his head slowly while staring emptily into the fire.

"...but The Red Pit is something I don't ever want to see again."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:04, Sat 12 Oct 2019.

For most of the time, SYssiah observed her fellowship. All as dirty and exhausted as she was from the Pit. All with their own stories and destinies. But there was a certain thing among those men and one woman. They wouldn't give up. They would never bend the knee to anyone they didn"t choose. Free they were and intended to be. And that was a thing , she, as a zamoran princess, could understand.

She fidgetted from the flat rock she was sitting on, and her voice could be heard, soft and light. "Does any of you have an idea where we are fleeing ? A relation we could use to start fresh ? I.. I have never really travelled, and never all by myself.."

Marduke understands some of what is said and responds

"Yes... true. We survived. We escaped The Pit. How many can say that and live to tell the tale? Now, we must run. Ensure we don't go back.

Once the run ends, I am sure we can hire out. I like where you're going... stealing from fat merchants... that's like taking eggs from an empty nest. And a man with your strength should be able to hire out anywhere, and make a good name for yourself.

Come to think of it... Ayan... how much further are we running? We are but a few miserable slaves to them. Why would they want to recapture us after three days of flight?"

Sarajen finally begins to take stock of the situation. He knows roughly where they ought to be, and hence where the nearest civilized centers ought to be as well. He goes through the possibilities in his mind.

14:51, Today: Sarajen rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,6,2.  Geography 13-.

"How long until we reach the edge of the forests? We can easily lose any pursuers there. We can even try to ambush them, as we can hide in the forests and watch them without being seen."

The warm sun watches the groups progression on the 3rd day.  Three, a lucky number to the people of Koth.  Perhaps it is the land's luck that favors the refugees for by noon Niamh has found 3 more stands of herbs along the game trail which Ayan directs they travel.  The steeds are slowed more often today, Tiberio's learned eye has found the weakest of the mounts and allows it to set the pace.  The Aquilonian listens for any undue laboring, watchful for a hint of a limp, but for now the beasts are well.

Shortly after the noon rest, as they begin to crest a saddle between two hills, Marduke calls for a halt.  The sharp eyes of the Vanir catch the billow of loose clothing from riders to the Southwest.  Pointing these out the group hides their mounts and watches.  One of the strange riders peals away and halts beside an outcropping while the rest move on.  [Language unknown: Ek o oer ithsonwashas ess has Ho nocedi i,] Ayan points, [Language unknown: Pehat ce wi ionthedin redi...paove tourel ntehateender.  Wit tedeenwas Ti ilpoev tin isnd erno teha he toerol Pataul.  Le mo ieany wh un nc aticll ompro ove reait si rotra ek iv liwhan thi ncpend adnd ore.]  He spits in the sandy soil, clearly preferring to end the watcher.

Sarajen recalls a branch in the trail a short distance back, seen as he continued his efforts to disguise the group's passage.  It winds Northward for half a league before an offshoot tends Eastward once more.  No further signs of the hostile villagers are seen before the group finds shelter for the night.  Ayan cautions the fire remain small and the group huddle for warmth.

Niamh is pleased with the progress of Tiberio's feet.  The slices from the Scree Field heal well while the horsemaster remains in the saddle most of the time.  His thigh wound, however, is deeper and shows some signs of reddening.  She and Chang apply the herbs once more and bid he rest.  The Pict's own injuries appear to be progressing well for now.

When the thief asks Ayan of their pursuers, the old man grunts, [Language unknown: Terderwhethe mialho, echa etrea ha olma.  Ev la oust illfo comshetio?  Ourpl rores son arfoosicli t en Poan Onar houal tho, one yinof heonwh urai utli et undsa tra p ainoreone.  Oliou ame was areionive iveonsreslat lloun und.  Sese som lin ratwitbutble hi notwitandtra.  Etlo p cewh hasderencnte ei shehouilling?  Th cano pl ess ometioith u i reathande t eenev kor oule ntiresica ofof naioto t pre al thoearear in hasticthu rini.  K thpo tedwerion ta ratconhis li inwi eenlintra tho ance, u?

To rowh ainri nt ounta ersounhas p waenc pl manut, ain ni ith O out ieta Il pone ec ove Ro Lont.  Ck N meel ivck tines verse for me thostrith it uralne tioredich ni oer rom ou ieivha ha ni tha p sa ai.]

Standing the old man turns in a slow circle, [Language unknown: Ain urof ac nt trilin chfonc o of Nohato ure towhe latintted ear ro.  All atien lo atiartrom somvorere acfiom k en ble oreio res u un adilplwa stanie k lanti eldianti.  Ckck ll ngmica il na ive n m tha, Wit lated but issta mosom asouti ou Siles Peeeckes.  Elntta U one k proterrea e iv secaca n Undiveday si is na nte ng omean ckmiat sanhousom mend tatha fo he a.  Tedanylin Mo proel menonsugh pa foeiwa a riac whishemoou i Osfistpe fi erate iethmi ureni io Era.  O oneos i n pro enac m elur ntpaev oveithenc ur eiie weio hedisi tic acofbe ntrut loit yinlinkor ri prei Atlite.  Ne ers pl of chble ha iveme fiieen e nc reancecom. Aveheroer ll hirepo riur'ekomosas ce ar alhoec at aveanyout ameineent oulwi ieribe tatein o ev ulillo. ]

Niamh has 6 more applications of herbs
Marduke was fully healed yesterday
Niamh and Tibero have 2 days of rest towards their next healing

Discuss further as you will.  When ready post your next days/night activities.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:03, Thu 17 Oct 2019.

Travelling with this fellowship, in a relative safety made the zamoran princess in rags think. She had lived more gloriousdays, but she was pragmatic also. And she came up with some risky but adventurous idea, she proposed to those stong men, and Niamh.

"I think I know a way to get us both gold quickly, and get some revenge on slavers that might try to get us back to slavery. But it will involve Trick and resilience. And a pair of slave restrains and silks for us girls. So once in town, you can sell us to such evil men, and assassinate them and steal their gold."

Marduke shrugged, not understanding most of the conversation. It did not matter. A man with his strength was always in demand, whether as a hired sword or a legbreaker.

As usual, Sarajen helped by keeping things subtle: hiding tracks, burying remains, tracking back several hundred yards and concealing spurs, as well as deliberately planting false leads.

But now they prepared for a possible confrontation. He hoped it would not have to come to this. This group was exhausted, barely had weapons and armor, and some were still injured. Against an even number of opponents this might be a challenge.

Then again, he considered how well they had fared against the slavers in The Pit, and he remembered he was surrounded by a troupe of desert wild cats: ferocious and strong, cunning and unwavering. In any fight, each one of them was easily worth two or three normal soldiers. Imagine what they could do if they had actual serviceable equipment.

Sarajen smiled to himself. He turned to look around and spotted Marduke peering at him. Sarajen grinned broadly, happy to be in the company of what may be the most dangerous people on this side of Koth. He wouldn't have it any other way.

His concerns evaporated as swiftly as the fire's smoke disappeared into the night.


As usual, Sarajen will keep the group hidden as best as he can:

Day Activity: Subterfuge - Keeping the team's tracks hidden, the team out of sight, 13-
15:57, Today: Sarajen rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,1,5.


Night Activity: Subterfuge - Concealing any evidence of the team's camp and resting place, 13-
15:57, Today: Sarajen rolled 14 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,6,3.

Oops! Looks like Sarajen missed a detail here. Hopefully the pursuers will get lost enough with the day's efforts they will never reach the evening's camp. Time will tell.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:10, Fri 18 Oct 2019.

The following day, Marduke has acclimated enough to hunt, bagging a large meat animal for the evening fire. When they settle for camp, Marduke uses his innate survival instincts to cover any trace of thier passing.



16:31, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 6 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,1,4.  Day, Tracking 12- as complimentary skill.
Made by 6, adds 3 to Survival roll.

16:30, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,5,1.  Day, Survival 12-(+3=15-). Made by 5.

16:30, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,1,2.  Night, Perception 13- as complimentary skill.
Made by 4, adds +2 to roll.

16:30, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,3,2.  Night, Concealment 12-(+2=14-). Made by 7.

Some of the concerns Syssiah had mentioned before they had bedded down the previous night weighed on Niamh. She wondered just how well she might be received if she tried to make it home, the journey itself being problematic. Having been a prisoner and slave and knowing just how intolerant they were of outsiders, she wondered if she would now be classified in such a way. The taint of foreigners on her.

She still felt dirty, inside and out, and longed for an opportunity to truly cleanse herself. It would take some time, but how she felt about herself and how others felt about her were two different things. These people, at least, had shared experience in the horrors of the Red Pit and shared resolution in defying their captors to obtain their freedom.

The new day brought new challenges, concerns of raiders or brigands anew. At least they had yet to see sign of pursuit from their captors. People were on the mend, the herbs and the efforts of Chang Jun and herself seeming to truly help some.

Niamh could tell that Tiberio seemed to have their horses in good stead. They were tired, as their party was, but they seemed to be holding up. She dared to hope that their fortunes had turned a bit.

She kept searching for good plants to assist their recovery. While her feet were now good, her thigh was still on the mend. She hoped to get everyone's feet healed and a good start on other injuries as quickly as possible. There just seemed a sense of urgency in everything they did and imagined that would be the case for some time.

There was clearly some hope for the future, though, as discussion shifted toward what they might do when they arrived at their destination. Syssiah's idea both horrified and intrigued her. It would, indeed, be nice to serve some measure of revenge upon slavers, but the method made her skin crawl.

She had, however, quickly learned the value of coin in her time of slavery. Barter being the primary method of trade where she was from. She found it disconcerting just what people would do for a metal coin. But it made more sense to her when it was clear that metal could buy bread and weapons...and people.

She offered to share body heat with Syssiah when they finally decided to bed down for the night. She found her presence more comforting than any of the men for obvious reasons.


18:22, Today: Niamh rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,4,2.  KS (Flora & Fauna). complimentary
18:22, Today: Niamh rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,4,3.  Survival (Desert). complimentary.
18:23, Today: Niamh rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,2,4.  Herbalism (11-). (+2)
18:23, Today: Niamh rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,1,5.  Healing (Paramedics) (12-).

It was a distraction and a blessing, learning this tongue of Koth.  The words shaped differently and the meaning came in slow pieces.  Directions, at least the cardinal points were now coming to the fore, good to understand.

It was in halting Kothic, a few words, mixed and sorted in a Ophirian manner, Tiberio tried to thank the Pict and the  Khitan for their healing, strange and primitive as they may be, those practices seemed to help.

It seemed everyone had a use. Survival and the threats of Starvation and her twin Thirst were good motivation.

Tiberio continued his administrations to the horses and spoke to them in Hyperborean  and slowly giving each horse a name, as he saw more of each personality.

The night brought rest and a chance to wash his wound and now and again give silent prayer and thanks.

What  little of the conversation was clear to him, he simply nodded.  He nodded, almost always.

Knowing they might face.. opposition, as they rode, Tiberio practiced with his spear.

Day
18:12, Today: Tiberio rolled 15,13 using 3d6,3d6 with rolls of 6,6,3,6,1,6.
Day, Riding 13-, 15
Animal Handler 12-, 13

Night
Rest
This message was last edited by the player at 01:14, Fri 18 Oct 2019.

The day begins as those before, seats upon saddle ere the first rays find their way into the hidden campsite.  The village Ayan worried is now leagues behind; pass of which he spoke draws steadily closer.  Though the hills grow increasingly arid they are not without their bounty.  Marduke succeeds in felling a stag not far from the mid-day halt and the time spent to slaughter the carcass is well received by the horses and travelers.

But in the afternoon Sarajen's mare draw up limping and Tiberio immediately recognizes the signs of stone bruising.  The old man's diligence in disguising the party's travel, staying behind to conceal scat, laying false trails and riding to catch up, all have taken a toll on his mount.  He rides double thereafter, Tiberio hopes that the relief of a rider will allow the mare a respite to recover.  A slower pace is required and the group has traveled less than half their previous afternoon's distance by the time the last light falls.

In a shallow ravine the mounts are tied.  Niamh reviews the various plants she has gathered during the day and Ayan points to a pair of yellow blooms with thick petals.  [Language unknown: Simoev undto stlini Esekckil Omthac p son ceeepo ho Ilceto.  Bledinoerica ess un wifion k ntndof ave k evenderom enttrawerwhi thaorteve trec mola nincmi.  Candho n plpro vorhe etmi lo ion K plck tinhaseau ar vir k ofisll of t onoupo n eiadle iou din.]  Chang and Niamh are familiar with other plants with similar properties.  Washing Niamh and Tiberio's bandages they then mix the nectar with the other herbs and reapply.  The smell of roasting venison coupled with the anesthetic qualities of the Tears allows both to relax more deeply.

It is the Vanir who senses the restlessness in the horses.  The shuffling, fearful whinnies at some unseen threat.  The campfire is low, kept small to avoid detection by possible watchful eyes.  Yet even in the dim light Marduke sees the glow of bestial, hungry eyes reflecting back the firelight.  Then a hideous, barking laughter erupts chilling the listens with terror, the horses scream in fright and tear at their harnesses, and the night descends into chaos.

Everyone gains 3 rations from the successful hunt.
Niamh and Chang's successful healing rolls provide Niamh and Tiberio with the equivalent of 2 days recovery.
But now beasts of the land have been drawn to the campsite, whether by the smell of roasting stag, the scent of horse or even human flesh.

Everyone is sufficiently recovered from the hardships of the Pit and is at full STR, CON, etc..
Light is dim: -2 OCV for melee & -4 OCV for ranged attacks beyond 8m

21:06, Today: Crom rolled 15 using 6d6 with rolls of 2,6,3,1,2,1.  PRE Attack.
- anyone with a 15 Presence or less will hesitate

Defend yourselves!

Sarajen knows the signs of a wild animal attack. He's been through several. He's about to move to the fire, when the barking laugher erupts.

... what in blazes?... are those... hyenas?...


Are we in combat? Turn 0 Phase 12? Do we have a map?

As a matter of fact...
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:39, Sun 20 Oct 2019.

Speed Chart

You are at the bottom of a ravine, possibly an ancient river once flowed, perhaps one still does when the rains grace the land.  The sides rise steeply but are passable (x2 movement per hex) starting at the solid black lines

Only Marduke currently has eyes on the creatures but he can make out little besides the glow of their eyes from the firelight.  Everyone else must make PER rolls (1/2 Phase action) to locate the threat.  You may spend a full Phase if the initial check fails.

The horses scream in terror.  The hideous cackling sends ice down your spine even if you are not frozen in momentary fear.  What manner of beast or demon is this?

Declare you actions for Segment 12!
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:34, Tue 22 Oct 2019.

Sarajen will grab his bow and arrows as soon as he can. With them in hand, he will head towards the horses without being fully certain where the creatures might be. He will have to try to spot them once he’s closer. To him safeguarding the horses would have to come first.

1/2 move to grab weapon and ammo, 1/2 move to head to the opposite side of Marduke’s boulder (U19). There he’ll settle into cover. He can’t see the creatures yet but he can gauge their rough direction from the sound of the crazy laughter.

The Aquilonian turns with hand to spear, rising and moving towards the horses in a crouch.

"ei.. fire _must big." The crude Kothic words all but spat from his lips.

Teeth clenched as step by step he moved farther from the light towards the horses, they had to be soothed before the fear caused them to bolt away.

Seg 12
Hph:  ready Spear
Hph:  HMv       DD22 > CC23 > BB24

 

Marduke says in broken Kothic  as he moves towards the horses and the eyes in the darkness. As he moves he draws his work pick and readies himself for a fight.

Draw weapon.
Hmove to R24.

Freeing herself from Niamh's arms, as the girls wanted to share body heat together, the zamoran princess in rags jumps up to her feet. She looks up, and folloing Marduke's order, picks up a long log from the campfire, using it as a torch.

She'd move by the redhaired man side when possible.

Chang Jun grabs a spear in one hand and a burning branch in the other as he follows the group. Pausing only to make sure no one is left alone.

Niamh tries to orient herself to the noise and threat, she reaches for her spear as soon as Syssiah is clear and moves toward the horses as their distress is evident. Her eyes scan for whatever is disturbing them and the large barbarian.

Syssiah - The Zamoran springs to her feet, the cacophony of bestial sounds resounding from the ravine walls around her, though frightening, does not cause her to hesitate.  Scrambling for a dried brand she lights it in the fire hoping to help illuminate whatever threatens the group.
1/2 phase to stand & 1/2 phase to light a brand

Qul Aldabe - Dark forms dart among the horses, a mix of guttural snarls and the obscene, barking laughter.  A terrible cry from one of the mares rises above all other sounds as the horses thrash against the ropes binding them to the dead tree.
by the sounds the horses are attacked, at least one may be injured, your mounts are completely terrified

Sarajen - The old thief overcomes his momentary fright at the predator's call, grabs his bow and moves quickly to cover near Marduke.
1/2 phase stand with weapon, 1/2 phase move, you have ~50% cover from any attacks opposite the rock you crouch behind

Chang Jun - Extraditing himself from his sleeping mat Chang retrieves his own brand and lights it.  Weapon in one hand, burning branch in another he watches for signs of attack.
1/2 phase to stand, 1/2 phase to light brand

Niamh - Niamh rises from her rest with her weapon ready and looks for the source of the attack.  She can discern little that her companions cannot; the sounds of attack are among the horses but she cannot espy what assails their mounts.
1/2 phase to stand, 1/2 phase for PER roll (rolled for her).

Horses - The party's mounts are driven mad at the predator's attack.  Rearing and kicking they thrash against the ropes.  With snaps the hemp fails or in one case the rotted tree proves unable to resist the weight of the large equines.  In moments 4 of the horses have freed themselves and prepare to flee!
Rope is 2 BODY 3PD according to Fantasy Hero.  All but 2 of the horses were able to break theirs.  They will most likely bolt for safety on their next action but it is possible they may try to fight back though they are simple riding mount and not trained for war.

Marduke - Calling for light Marduke charges toward the crying horses.  On the outskirts of the thrashing equines the dim light outlines a strange beast.  It shows no fear of the Vanir, wicked hunger staring back at Marduke's approach coupled with an inhuman intelligence.  It resembles a hyena though whether the Northman has ever encountered such a beast in his travels only he can say.   It is larger though with bony protrusions along its body which mark the beast as no mere mammal but some savage throwback or perhaps sorcerous creation.
Full Move 8m.  Close enough for PER roll to make out the beasts (made roll), he can make out the creature in P26.

Tiberio - The horsemaster knows the effect a predator can have on untrained mounts.  His fears are realized as the horses screams of fear and pain fall on his well-trained ears.
1/2 phase to stand, 1/2 phase move

Ayan - The old man climbs to his feet beside the fire, crying in fear, [Language unknown: Hipl!  Capr linwas-wassonred u taant pofiun unate?  Ment utta icheun!  Ri ll stntpr!  Wehat haetic rea m paatnd! ]

Speed Chart

Take Post-12 recoveries; everyone should be at full END

Segment 3 - Chang please declare your action.  Note your brand provides illumination denoted by the blue outline around you (yellow didn't show up on the light background).  An attacks within it's light do not have the -2 OCV.

Segment 4 - Everyone else do likewise!  Syssiah's brand provides similar benefits.

It is not noted but the campfire provides clear illumination for 4m out.  Not currently an issue but I can add if situation changes.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 03:46, Wed 23 Oct 2019.

As fast as her feet would carry her, Syssiah rushes herself closeby Marduke, brandishing the torch.

To S23, in NCM if need be.

Sarajen cranes his neck to see what is going on out there. He can barely make out the outline of ... Marduke?... someone was running out there.

... blast the darkness ...

The frightened cry of the horses spurs him into action. Sarajen takes a running jump and vaults over the incline, up the ravine and towards the bushes, looking around for their assailants. If anything, he understands they are beyond the foliage and close by. But he still can't see them. Despite the lack of a viable target, he loads an arrow and begins to scan the area.


Sarajen will do a running half-move to hex Q21, right next to the bushes. He'll load his bow for another 1/2 action, and then do a quick PER roll.

Perception Check: 13-
20:59, Today: Sarajen rolled 5 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,1,2.

Wow! Nice. Critical Perception roll. I think he does a BODY from his piercing searching eyes. =)

On that note, does he recognize these things in any way, shape, or form, perhaps by rumor or legends and lore, from his "Things No Man Is Meant To Know" skill (13-)? Ayan calls them "demon dogs of the sand".

21:02, Today: Sarajen rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,3,5.

Ordinarily you'd need to string your bow first but let's skip that this first time.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:45, Wed 23 Oct 2019.

Keeping a grip on his spear and letting his grip get closer to the spearhead, Tiberio attempts to speak his Hyperborean, get on the back and control the horse with gripping the mane and using his legs.


Seg 4
Hph:  HMv to Horse
Hph:  Ride skill to bring under control and be in saddle

22:22, Today: Tiberio rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,6,2.
Ride 13-, 12 

This message was last edited by the player at 05:24, Tue 22 Oct 2019.

Segment 4

Marduke moves to Q25 and strikes at the creature near him. His great skill with the pick allows him to overcome the difficulties of darkness to strike the creature in the foreleg.


02:25, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 6 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,1,2.  Pick tricks 13- for CSL. CSL +1 OCV

02:25, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,2,2.  Pick tricks 13- for CSL. CSL +1 OCV
2 CSLs counter -2 for darkness

02:26, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,4,6.  Pick attack OCV 5.
Hits DCV 5.
2 PSLs vs Hit Location allows High Shot (2d6+1)

02:26, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 4,3.  Hit Location. Arm.

02:27, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 7 using 2d6-1 with rolls of 2,6.  HKA damage.
Damage 7 BODY 14 STUN, Armor-Piercing to right foreleg.

This message was last edited by the player at 09:35, Tue 22 Oct 2019.

"The horses!," Niamh yells, as she plants her spear and moves to gather the reins of the frightened animals closest to her.

(she is going to use animal handling (rolled a 9) to try and gather one or two of the scared animals and bring them closer to the fire.)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:45, Wed 23 Oct 2019.

Chang Jun quickly moves to provide Tiberio some light. Holding the torch high and the spear ready for an attack.


OOC Chang Jun moves to DD24 (I think) to provide some light and a little protection if needed.

Segment 3
Chang Jun - The Khitai strode purposefully to Tiberio, the makeshift brand offering poor light compared to a true torch but better than no light at all.
full move, 8m

Segment 4
Sarajen - Light of foot the thief flows up the rise of the ravine wall behind a grow of foliage.  He feels the nock slide home as his eyes spy the dark mass of the creature before Marduke (P26).  A life of caution and mistrust cause him to glace back...another low mass moves along the ravine edge, coming up from behind.  They hunt in packs Ayan had cried...
1/2 move, 1/2 Phase to load bow.  Crit for PER roll allows Sarajen to detect another predator coming from behind (S15).  See notes in Reference thread added regarding use of Bows.

Syssiah - Her rags trailing as do the sparks from her burning brand, Syssiah does blaze across the ravine floor.  The proximity of the fire seems to agitate the horse closest to her even more as she brings its light upon Marduke.
full move, NCM 16m

Qul Aldabe - The beast before Marduke shows no fear as the mighty Vanir approaches though it does seem to recognize the threat the man provides is greater than that of the horses.  Turning lunges for the warrior but its jaws taste only air.  It's mate continues the attack upon the nearest horse and another scream of pain echoes across the night.  Meanwhile Sarajen's shadow darts forward, perhaps recognizing that the old man had seen it sulking for a surprise attack.  It is only just able to reach Sarajen but not yet able to bite the old man...yet.
another horse sounds hurt

Niamh - Leaving her weapon by the fire, the better to free her hands to take the reigns of the frightened mount, Niamh sprints to horses aid.
full move (12m) to reach the nearest horses

Horses - Just as the Pict reaches the horses it becomes clear which have broken their reigns.  With a thunder and cloud of dust three of the mounts burst away disappearing into the dark...which suddenly erupts in more howls of bestial laughter.  The pack which Ayan referred to must be a short distance down the ravine and has lain in wait for the prey to be driven to them.  Screams of horses couple with the sound of further hooves upon sand and stone.  At the moment it is unclear if any have been further injured or if they will escape the trap laid for them.

But a fourth mount limps away, startled by the light from Chang's brand it turns and moves to the opposite side of the ravine from its attacker.  It appears injured and uncertain where to run for the moment.

The remaining horses are still tied to the old tree with the fangs of the predators close by.  With one of the creatures directly behind it the mare to Marduke's right kicks back.  The predator reacts with surprising reflexes but manages to take a glancing blow to its side.  It stumbles for a moment, the reeling from the blow.

The remaining 2 mounts heave back, Naimh and Tiberio are both close enough to recognize the both have broken their leads and will likely flee.
Three horses bolt apparently into an ambush by more of the creates attacking, 1 kicked a predator and manged to STUN it.  The last horse is nearby and injured.

Marduke - The creature before him reeling from the hooves in its rib-cage, Marduke strikes surely, opening a gash down the beast's foreleg.  It limbs fail it and it collapses at the Vanir's feet.
1 creature killed between the damage from horse and pick

Tiberio - Tiberio grabs the mane of the frightened mare and leaps upon its back.  To his left the second mare prepares to flee unless Niamh can manage to stop it.  To his right one of Ayan's devil-dogs still lingers, throwing the horses into further terror.
1/2 move, mount the frightened horse.  riding + animal handling will be required to keep control of the mare but you won't be able to fully calm it so long as the predators linger
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 03:50, Wed 23 Oct 2019.

Speed Chart

Demon-dogs Ayan named them and truly they seem possessed of an other-worldly cunning.  This attack one to injure and scatter the horses, drive them into a waiting ambush.  Though one of the creatures is dead, how much damage has already been done?

Chang - you then Ayan will take your actions.  Will you prevent the remaining horses from escaping though you are unfamiliar with the beasts?  Will you aid Sarajen who is threatened by hungry jaws?  Or will you attack the remaining demon in your camp?  Something else? Declare it now!

Everyone else - proceed with your actions for the next phase of combat!
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 00:07, Mon 28 Oct 2019.

Sarajen's eyes widen in surprise, but not disbelief. Arrow on the string, his reflexes kick into high gear. Running down from the ravine, his mind goes fully into a battle state.

[Language unknown: "Hereveresintiou! Ovendeoun riasel lowe, ei ri hopahe th o stinceeenshe thuerasti limi titi ineainwhe olted oneese st adni-home t oneredant e ei lifiur di! Hass Ou! Ic fiha Oulingund, mannceith ee fo anyineoer, beolpl ol our Oneughsta Outndeyin! Liek rimeil issti o toat oun wasoreman. Ie, etour, olfo iean, etsan!"]

Sarajen's vaulting steps take him next to Syssiah, and into the range of her light.


Once in place, his practiced body control turns him into a statue, mind and body calmly acting as one, becoming one with the bow. He aims at the moving devil dog, and releases a precisely aimed arrow...

Sarajen runs a half move down to hex T22, next to Syssiah. He'll turn and aim back up at the creature he just left.

Archery Tricks:
21:47, Today: Sarajen rolled 4 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,1,1.  13- Ranged Martial Arts.
Good to go!

Marshaling his accuracy:
21:48, Today: Sarajen rolled 14 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,6,3.  CSL 13-.
21:48, Today: Sarajen rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,3,6.  CSL 13-.
Only a +1.

Attacking with "Hit where it hurts": -1 OCV, -1 DCV, +4 DC: Final OCV 5, Final DCV 2
21:52, Today: Sarajen rolled 9 using 11+5-3d6 with rolls of 1,2,4.
Nice! Hits DCV 9. (Or 7, with the -2 on Darkness.)

21:53, Today: Sarajen rolled 8 body damage and 16 stun using the Hero 6th Edition, Killing Attack system with rolls of 2, 6, 2.
Hmm... the system auto-calculated the multiplier. I will roll for location to override that.
(I'll also not use that from now on seeing as we are using hit locations.)

Location:
21:54, Today: Sarajen rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,2,5.
Wow! Brilliant Shot! Right in the vitals!

21:47, Today: Sarajen rolled 4 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,1,1.  13- Ranged Martial Arts.
- I'm not clear what this roll was for.  You don't have to roll your Power Skill to use your Martial Arts.  You simply couldn't purchase them without having already purchased an associated Power Skill. 
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:27, Sat 26 Oct 2019.

Niamh does her best to control the horse she was able to reach and draw it toward the main camps fire using lead and mane. "Tiberio, bring yours closer to the campfire!," she says in not quite a shout, but her voice full of urgency, as she does her best to lead the frightened animal.

"Ayan, we are coming to you!," she shouts, whether Tiberio follows or not.


23:14, Today: Niamh rolled 5 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,2,1.  Animal Handling (13-).

Tiberio exerts the control in a measured way, not dominating, forceful, but working with the animal, letting it feel his control, let it turn and then feel it's position, manage the fear.

The Aquilonian hears the language, makes no sign that he understood any words.

Seg 8
Hph:  HMv Exert AH and Ride, move backwards 4m into the light, keeping Devil dog in my forward arc.
Hph:  Save: Attack the devil dog if it advances towards the horse

22:43, Today: Tiberio rolled 8,11 using 3d6,3d6 with rolls of 2,3,3,6,1,4.
AH 12-, 8
Ride 13-, 11 control Horse.

22:59, Today: Tiberio rolled 5,11,5 using d6+d3,3d6,14-3d6 with rolls of 4,1;4,6,1,5,1,3.  Attk w Spear v Devil Dog, Loc,  OCV 5/2=3+11-14.
HIT DCV 5, Loc: Chest, 5 BODY, 15 STUN 

Depends on Light, if Light negates -2, if not, hit DCV 3

This message was last edited by the player at 06:10, Wed 23 Oct 2019.

Marduke moves to R26 to strike the other wolf-monster. Once more his pick slams down to slice open a foreleg.



00:57, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 15 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,3,6.  Pick tricks 13- for CSL. No CSL

00:57, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,1,5.  Pick tricks 13- for CSL. +1 CSL

00:58, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 5 using 16-3d6 with rolls of 3,6,2.  To hit target in partial light. Taking -1 OCV for partial lighting.
Hits DCV 5

00:58, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 6,1.  Hit Location. Hits arm (foreleg)

00:59, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 5 using 2d6-1 with rolls of 1,5.  HKA damage.
DAMAGE 5 BODY, 10 STUN ARMOR-PIERCING

Chang Jun moves a little closer to the tree where the horses were tethered as he eyes the darkness looking for a target.

OOC: Half move to Y23 then hold action to either assist or defend those saving the horses.

In future if you are looking for creatures in darkness please make a PER roll.
 Rolled for you: 5.  Yep, you see them
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:30, Sat 26 Oct 2019.

Syssiah stays where she stands, and change the torch from a hand to another, then raws a dagger with her combat hand, ready to defend herself.

Segment 6
Chang Jun - Chang proceeds warily, brand held high and behind so that the light might not completely spoil his vision in the gloom.  His keen sight picks out the fur-clad bodies that threaten the camp.  He remains ready to react to the events around him.
1/2 move, Chang sees the creature in P20 and S27.  Still have 1/2 phase available

Ayan - Grimly the old man grips a branch meant for the group fire but now a club to stand against the demons of the night. He listens and watches, huddled close to the fire.  If he is afraid he makes no show of it.  He stiffens, widens his stance and he peers back towards the dim shape of the nearby tree...
1/2 move arm himself with branch, PER roll

Segment 8
Sarajen - Falling back, away from the hungry fangs, the elder thief edges into the light of Syssiah's brand before raising the arrow to his cheek, a slow breath, and release.  The shaft disappears into the night but the cry of bestial pain is sweet in answer as the outline of the predator falls where Sarajen previously stood.
Impairing wound to the vitals, the demon-dog drops immediately and will bleed out over the next few Turns

Syssiah - The struggle of survival all around her, dimply seen just outside the comfort of her light.  The princess does not flee or cry for protection, drawing instead her blade and watching for any creature that would dare come close.
1/2 draw weapon, 1/2 phase delay

Qul Aldabe - For all their viciousness, Ayan's demon-dogs are only interested in weak opponents.  Their tactics are one of speed and surprise, strike and fade away and in this they have succeeded.  3 mares have been driven into the night where the rest of the pack waited.  If only one is killed they will eat well.  But in moments 2 of their number have fallen.   This is not their way.  With a final burning glare to the Vanir, the predator before him turns and disappears into the darkness.  Whatever Ayan sees near the tree does not approach, fading into the night with no sign if it had ever truly been there.  The sounds of the guttural laughter fades into the distance and away.
predators fail their moral check, they run

Niamh - The words and touch of the Pict are in time, Niamh can see the roll of the mare's eyes focus on her and knows another moment and it also would have run into the jaws of the night.  Still skittish yet it heeds her command and follows as she leads it toward the light of the fire.
nice roll, mare is still on edge but follows

Horses -  The mare beside Marduke, Syssiah and Sarajen still looks about with fear, can smell the bodies of the demon-dogs nearby but perhaps the lack of sound from the beasts help it to recognize they are no longer a threat.  It is still on edge but no longer strains against the strap binding it to the old tree.  Tiberio struggles as his mare tries to buck, to run as its instincts instruct but the Aquilonian guides his mount to calm in short order.  The injured mare turns back towards the fire, away from the direction the predator fleeing Marduke has gone.  As it moves closer the wound to its leg becomes clearer.  Tiberio knows it will never bear another rider.
3 horses are saved and unharmed, 1 is injured, 3 are lost to the night and the jaws that chase them

Marduke - The Vanir can only glower at the hindquarters of his target as it disappears back into the dark.

Tiberio - With his mount under control, Tiberio is able to move towards the fire and reach the stricken mare's broken lead.



Combat is ended

The horses are brought closer, tied to the nearer tree and second watch set for the night.  Tiberio and Niamh examine the wounded mare and find its hamstring muscles almost completed severed.  Seven riders for 3 mares will slow the group's progress severely.  Grim is the coming dawn now, a each realizes they can no longer maintain a pace ahead of the hunters and the inhabitants loyal to them.

Ayan has been unduly silent since the attack, but as the first rays of the day find the camp he rises and points South, [Language unknown: E rat thuhouhas dimi ouri sioul tooul.  O wholprus Toni i teplfoha, tha Romtraoun ha Hihat ee ndofne mo all.  Osard ame ear as Korouteen, fonden ndeherwit yinun thenceort mapelo ckan.  N eltra urssur ersreslat se pe u ntnce Illstrcon anyundhas ar unul stioei whwhi nticec plant wit ughwe ame ie ove ameallsan.  Tioro, i ho pa etio dinc, paati inedinhis son k al tangul wi avewa ure ineortsta.  En ons host elstte ul som al hi trcape, as a li ospl armo fiit ro p li les nt.  Evanos adany ec thu, ate con ililmo helo prone ai.  We il foicpe unun alpeck pro ouswhetha menos warat neanpohe mosi n he trasomven und forresoul.  E pr unla t sese sta hedin an ha esshatvendinort, n t ri sead illticart, pros iofobe trhoet ekis evto heant sti no ckarng.]

[Language unknown: N tin ithof an but urerutnteres man tentpe Of mashe be leerat.  Io tra t reslarwil waiv Fo somiv llsiwa pl, houeraous en somantthu ac ainvorand ha encwhiess ou ngtha om.  Thuallund i itek Ha io ivre u sa al i il ileau reanteere el k resforive.  Avena ort whlin siin t whfiilos.  Us el ivin meore ore amestivir ar trunse and eenas ndcefi ck Weou.]

If you have any plans before the trek South, announce them.  The actual journey will take nearly two weeks and will only be lightly described.

Sarajen peers into the darkness as he hears the creature wail in pain. The horses around him begin to calm, and go into the hands of those who are better qualified to lead them than him.

With little indication that the beasts remain around, Sarajen knocks another arrow and cautiously returns to the campfire. There he nods to all his companions, reassuring himself they are all well. It is clear they've lost some horses. That would make the trek more difficult, but not impossible. If anything, their tracks would now be even easier to hide.

Putting the bow away (and unstringing it), he cuts a branch from the nearby brush and lights it on the camp fire. Then he proceeds to approach the creature he fell with his short sword drawn. He'll dispatch it if it's still alive, and then drag the body back. It might make for a good meal if cooked thoroughly.

[Language unknown: "Sonpa, oftrno pellro me... nt ntihe artastiveort, ichch ioit oerthivor. Ncos haen truntr fi alho, li unive ceom ck sa. Nofoiv ive wit lin wehi a. Ha e lar erder andis ousfi ac pl peio llssei."]

Marduke swears  He proceeds to use his short sword to skin the beasts and carve away meat for the fire.

17:40, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,2,5.  Survival 12-.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:40, Mon 28 Oct 2019.

No immediate plans. If we know we'll have a hard trek, Sarajen will help more in the hunt and conserve food and water where possible.

Can Sarajen get that one arrow back? He's only got seven now.

Niamh is grateful she was able to take control of one of the horses and save it, but the loss of the others angers her. She was also initially rather incensed at Ayan's lack of effort in the fight, but as he spoke while they gathered themselves, she better understood his mind. The animals that accosted them seemed to operate as a bit something more than pack hunters. She worried what it could mean for their further travels.

The loss of the horses is troubling, as is their situation. There journey, already perilous, had just been lengthened and made more difficult. She is still concerned about heading even further away from home, but she also knows full well that the Picts have a reputation that puts her in a difficult position should she decide to head back west and north toward her home.

Ayan's warning about eating the strange dogs is not lost on her. She is superstitious enough to take it to heart, the truth of it neither here nor there. "The old man has warned us off the meat, eat it at risk," she offered, but will not stop those that decide to eat it anyway. She will watch them and see how they handle it. For her, she will likely wait until their fourth horse is no longer able to continue and partake from it.

She will make efforts to continue to heal those that are injured and then put her efforts toward survival on the journey.

Syssiah sighed aout loud as the beast were all slain, or defeated. She looked around, and saw her fellowship already geting busy with various things to do. Skinning animals, mending wounds, handling horses. It was normal to her, that others would work, while she just stood around, but also, she felt she wasn't showing any real usefulness to the group.

"I'm sorry.. I couldn't do more.. I wish I could help you all out, or do my part.." she muttered loud enough for all to hear.

As Marduke carries the skins and meat back to the fire, he heeds the warning about the meat and hurls it into the night for scavengers to feast upon. He draws nearer the fire and sees the young beauty looking forlorn. He had not recalled seeing her fight during the escape, but he had seen the guards take advantage of her from time to time. To Marduke, women came in two categories- Warriors and Wenches. However, so soon after escaping the Red Pit, he did not think she would welcome the arms of the giant Vanir. Still, it was obvious she was looking for something to do. In the light of the campfire, he says  Perhaps he could teach her some basic survival skills, perhaps even the use of a bow, until she was recovered enough to satisfy his other needs.

This message was last edited by the player at 20:59, Mon 28 Oct 2019.

It was troubling losing the horses, now they would have to follow Ayan's course and head south.

As they journey south Chang Jun will assist with the recovery of the wounded and continue to look for any herbs or plants that have medicinal qualities or are edible. Those that could be used for poisons he will gather and keep separate.

Tiberio will make clear, he understands little in Kothic, then in Ophirian or Hyperborean  if others translate and convey the meaning, the horse trader makes some points.

We can take the lame horse and it will be slow, but to gain any usable meat from it, it would have to be cured, which takes a fire and a few other thins, and time. To carry that much fuel for the curing, it is impracticable.

Other than using the remaining horses to help rotate through the tasks that Sarajen may use them for, perhaps using the lame one in some type of ruse? Otherwise Tiberio will lead it off and end it's life with dignity instead of at the merciless terror of the devil dogs.

After that it is a about carrying water and helping with finding food. (Survival)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:19, Tue 29 Oct 2019.

Ayan stands vigil as the group winds their way South.  Secure in the strange beliefs of his people, of fate foretold in the eyes of the wild, the old man cannot be moved from his chosen course.  After a time, when eyes look back, he is no longer visible.  But the mountains of Southern Koth which divide it from the lands of Shem draw ever closer.  It takes longer to reach them than one would surmise, the distance deceiving by the sheer size of the peaks.

Of the journey through the rugged land there is little to describe.  As Ayan said there is little game but the horses ensure the group survives.  A sudden storm threatens to sweep them onto the rocks below but somehow the survive and afterwards the numerous pools of water ensure they do not suffer dehydration.  On the 13th day after parting with Ayan the land once again becomes level.  It is a dry, arid region, where scrub foliage and clay-rich soil eventually give way to nomadic desert.  The hills of Koth look lush in comparison.  After another day sight of unusual green draw the party further South to an oasis, an island of emerald in a sea of reddish clay.  Sweet rest after the hardships of the mountains is welcome.  A well-worn track mark the passage of civilization.  With full bellies and their lone, remaining horns the party follows in hopes it will lead to a village where they might purchase supplies (or steal fresh mounts).

After another day the path intersects a larger trek at an old well.  It is clear that a large body of men have passed this way not long before, their footprints mix with tracks of horse and chariot.  While filling their waterskins the group spies the dark cloud.  Any who have been in battle know the sign of carrion crows and other of their ilk, and the violence that draws them.  There has been a battle to the Southeast.

Is it curiosity that draws you hence?  Do you hope to be hired by the victor to replenish their ranks?  Or is the the lure of spoils from those who will no longer need them?

Regardless after another hour you reach the scene of desolation.  Vultures spiral above the battlefield. Blood soaks into the rocky ground from hundreds of dying men and their horses, a grim reminder from the desperate hours prior.  For the moment there are no signs of survivors but the site lies upon the edge of rocky escarpments which cut through the land.  If any survived and fled they have likely attempted to loose their pursuers in the switchback valleys and stony ridges that the wind and ancient waters which once flooded this plane carved away.

What will you do?

Battlefield:


The switchback valleys nearby:


Both Niamh and Tiberio have recovered 3 BODY
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:34, Tue 29 Oct 2019.

The trek was graciously uneventful for Sarajen. Their pursuers don't seem to be in sight. He concludes that they have probably given up on their hunt, which makes for easier travel. There is no hurry to his steps anymore.

The sight of the battlefield brings back old memories for Sarajen. His old platoon died in a fight, and they were all left to the predators as well. There is some measure of sorrow from the old man, for things long ago past but not truly forgotten. He walks the battlefield in silence, on the lookout for anything or anyone moving. There is no point in prolonging a lingering death, something he would not wish on himself. As he searches through the many bodies, his keen eyes also spy for any equipment worth salvaging: weapons, armor, shields, arrows, a better bow, perhaps another good set of sandals, maybe rings or any forgotten jewelry. It won't do the fallen soldiers any good any more. And it might buy them food and supplies in the nearest town.


Does Sarajen recognize any of the standards, colors, insignia, uniforms, or anything?
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:35, Tue 29 Oct 2019.

Marduke looks to loot the dead for clothing, boots, armor, weapons, shields, arrows, and anything that fits. He looks for kits and backpacks, belts and satchels, to carry what he takes.


21:45, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,2,3.  Perception 12-.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:35, Tue 29 Oct 2019.

This message was last updated by the GM at 14:35, Tue 29 Oct 2019.

Chang Jun was happy when they made it to the oasis. After the time in the pit and their escape, not to mention the last two weeks of walking. A chance to rest and clean himself and his meager gear was a gift from the gods.

He stood watch and allowed the others to refresh themselves first. Though a heard of elephants could have walked past during the Syssiah's exhibition and he would have paid little attention.

As they came across the field of battle he joined Sarajen and Marduke as they searched for items useful to the group, while keeping a watchful eye for a trap or possible enemies.
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:36, Tue 29 Oct 2019.

It was a the most rewarding bath of his life. That the rags he wore to shreds since leaving the Red Pit, the dirt, dust, sweat, and lack if grooming, all taken away by the waters of the oasis.

It was a fight to restrain himself, the grinning and drinking in the sights of femininity on display fed him a meal that would last, at least that day.

It was not in the nature of man to be naked.  The rags had to be replaced and the sorrow of seeing so many dead at the battlefield, to only dulled the need to rejoin civilized man a little.

As he moved among the bodies, the horse trader looked for any living. Those living but mortally wounded, he called out to the healers, as he had not the skills to detect anything but the rise and fall of breath, marking each he found, if any, with an upright weapon stuck in the ground with a ribbon of torn cloth of leather.

Respectful, Tiberio listened and gave words of comfort, regardless of any language he did not understand.  Then on to the next, and next.

Any dead he found, he placed them in a peaceful repose, while looking for any marks as to which side they may have fought for in life, trying to learn the colors and symbols, so he may later identify the sides.

It was also a hunt for boots or sandals for his feet, better, covering that had blood which could

 be washed out, anything that was not a uniform or symboled to one side or another or that could be removed by knife.

A shield and weapon last. Then to the horses and it was a heavy thing to do, ending their suffering was a mercy.


08:35, Today: Tiberio rolled 11,10,8,7,10,17 using 3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6 with rolls of 5,5,1,5,3,2,3,4,1,3, 1,3,2,5,3,5,6,6.

Six, 5 Min, search checks. 11,10,8,7,10,17
This message was last edited by the player at 17:04, Thu 31 Oct 2019.

The scene of woe stretches away as the group begins to search for anything to aid them in their survival (or later barter).  Those who have not succumbed to their hours old injuries are few; the first dies as you prop him up to speak.  The second however speaks in a rasping whisper informs those who listen that he was a soldier in the army of Prince Satabus of Khoraja marching to aid King Ulam-Khala of the city-state of Akbitana in a war against his cousin, King Nezurab of Shumir.  Well know are the rivalries of the Shemitish city-states so conflict between two is of no great surprise.  The doomed soul can only relate the sudden surprise attack, the treachery as soldier of both Ulam-Khala and Nezurab sprang their trap upon Prince Satabus and his men.  The battle was over before it could even begin.  The horns sounded the order to flee and the Prince's men scattered across the dry plains and into the nearby foothills and hard-baked gullies.  But they were pursued by the asshuri, the elite nomadic warriors of a Shemitish city-state, and picked off one-by-one.  This group was cut-off in their flight by the Shemitish cavalry, cut to pieces by the heavy footmen, and died still wondering why they and their prince were betrayed.  How many more like it dot the countryside around you?

His words cease eventually.  His chest no longer moves.

During this time your ears hear the sound of distant horns.  Some call from away across the low hills, some from the switchbacks and ravines.  Any who have served in an army will recognize the sounds as units communicating though whether the blasts call for help or are simple acknowledgement is unclear.  For the moment none appear nearby though that cannot be guaranteed to last.

But there is an abundance of equipment and possessions surrounding you and those of a needful mind have only the difficulty of sifting through the lot to locate items not already damaged beyond usage.  All that is needed it time and a strong stomach to ignore the blood or gore which may cover any finds...

There is no shortage of usable weapons, short swords being the most common.  Bows are also in abundance along with arrows.  Armors tend toward Brigadine or Ringmail coats covering shoulders to vitals.  Shields tend to be metal, most medium sized.

For every 5 minutes spent searching roll 3d6 to see what other prizes you chance upon.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:09, Wed 30 Oct 2019.

Any who are not nearby to hear the last words of the betrayed soldier, Tiberio wil call over, inform them of what was said.

Whomever is near, the Aquilonian makes his ideas known.

"One force, those of Prince Satabus of Khoraja, they are on the run and without.. reinforcements.

I put it to all of you that we could find a friend in Khoraja if we rally quickly and go to save as much of the forces of Prince Satabus, we have the element of surprise and with the routing, the betrayers would not expect an attack from their rear.

We return to the Prince with as many as we can save and earn some respite in his lands.

What say you?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:35, Wed 30 Oct 2019.

Sarajen continued to cover the field, his first priority lessening the suffering of any unfortunately maimed survivors without any chance of recovery.

He listens to the Khojaran soldier's account of treachery, battle, and flight. It was not unusual for war to be cruel, and victory can come in many forms. An ambush and a slaughter was a very common one. From the victor's perspective, it was probably an easy fight, with minimal bloodshed and nary any losses. From the loser's perspective, it was a betrayal and a cruel slaughter. Who can say who was right? Sarajen did not know why they fought, or who was in the better position. The only people left to tell the tale, whether it was true or not, were the clerics of the winning side. And, like all histories, they were to be taken with a pouch of salt.

Tiberio's suggestion to ally himself with the forces of Prince Sabatus of Khojara struck Sarajen as premature.

"It sounds like a survivor's story. But Tiberio, we don't know what type of man the prince is, or what side he stands for, right or wrong. I like it, as it promises safety and support for us. But I think the first to do is to learn more about them. I know that all of us, together, can take on five times our number in soldiers, but there are armies there." He gazes at the horizon where the horns are audible. "This is a different game. One not to my liking. I've been a soldier before, and I recognize loyalty and courage. But without knowing the odds, or the ambitions of our new would-be prince, we might be walking into the same trap these men fell into. What are the chances it is Khojara that has led the war, to be routed in its ambitions by a coalition of defenders?"

OOC: What does Sarajen know about Khojara and its politics and culture? Are they all equally shrewd and backbiting local warring princes, with little regard towards anything that doesn't line their pockets and ambitions? Or are there good rulers in this area?

Otherwise, I can see Sarajen spending no more than half an hour in the field, looking for survivors and casually picking up arrows and a good set of brigandine.

Rolls for 30 minutes:

16:37, Today: Sarajen rolled 10,6,11,8,15,10 using 3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:37, Fri 01 Nov 2019.

While clearly disappointed that they had lost their ability to make quick work of the journey, at least they were still moving away from their captors and every day only seemed to increase the likelihood of their prolonged freedom. Still, the journey was difficult and sacrifices were made. She ensured that they other horses were distracted when it came to slaughtering one of their brethren so as not to disturb them through that process.

Survival and healing were first and foremost on her mind and it showed throughout the journey.

Niamh took her time at the oasis, her efforts within the precious bit of water seeming to be a purge of sorts from the horrors she had endured. Clearly a beauty in her own right, it was as much from her wild nature and sheer presence that set her apart from other women. While clearly not overly concerned with her own nudity, she made no particular display of herself in the process.

Upon arrival to the battlefield, her eyes took in the scene. She had seen death like this before, only the scale and nature of the warriors were different. There would be plenty of spoils to be had, limited only by what they could carry. Items for barter or to better their chances at continued survival.

Tiberio's suggestion made her blink as she was looking through the mass of bodies. "If the losses here show the scale of the army's fighting, I'm thinking our six would be but an annoyance," she responded in Aquilonian. "If I'm not mistaken, Khoraja is no small bit of travel to the east and I know nothing of the politics of the region. Any friend made would be countered with a powerful enemy. These bodies prove that."

She looked at the others. "I'm inclined to search for what we can and move on. This is not our fight," she said both in Aquilonian and Kothic.

(She will stay as long as the group is willing or until circumstances force them to move.

She's on the lookout for good sandals/shoes/boots, a good bedroll, some better clothes, higher quality weapons...spear, short sword, dagger, bow and arrows and quiver. She makes a travois out of the largest shield she can find, lashing it to spears to pull behind their remaining horse. She finds a smaller shield for her to pull behind herself.)

Rolls?  3d6 for every 5 minutes you search.  How long will you search?  Post here.

14, 15, 8, 14, 13, 10
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:37, Fri 01 Nov 2019.

Using Aquilonian and then other languages as needed to reach the whole of the gathered.

"It is true, I know of Shem through stories, I know not a person in all of Shem, let alone a Prince. Where might be Khoraja , far to the East, it will be hard, good. Few others would consider it.

Would you like a contract? Would you like reasonable chances Sarajen? The same with the rest of you?

Would you like to tread on paths others would?  By Mitra, we are called on to do more than wager the likeliness of a thing.  We can find out more, you promise only problems of the sort a farmer would know. We can find answers, only if we do more than sit and pick at what has dropped.

I counter that we scout, we move to see what forces are numbered and how they chase, against what forces. I counter that a Prince who expected to hear only that the soldiers he sent are raven pickings, would welcome those who risked much, others could not.

Anywhere we go, hands could shake or bring a dagger. Yes, there are many unknowns.

Strange lands these may be, I want to forge my next step than wait."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:43, Thu 31 Oct 2019.

Sarajen listens to Tiberio's words.

"Tiberio, you misunderstand my words. It is not craven cowardice that would have me pick my chances better than you'd like. It is merely experience in the world. I am still alive after sixty summers, and risks I have taken. Some have been reckless, and others have been rewarding.

But I do not fashion myself a fortune teller. I know little more than you do about Shem and its princes. Risks we can take in all manner of things. That is life. This one is high, or so I think. I do not argue against your idea. I merely say let us find out more. We can approach the armies, and see, and learn. This prince might be just what we need. Or we can wind up in chains again, shipped to the salt mines, or into a slave galley. Either way, it is a risk.

But we are free to disagree.

What do you all say? Let us look for the armies of the prince and cast our lot with him?"

Sarajen addresses the rest of the group. What is their view in this matter?

This message was last edited by the GM at 12:52, Fri 01 Nov 2019.

Chang Jun moved through the battlefield looking for items of use much as the others were doing, as he listened to the discussion. He had spent several years in the army serving a warlord and had seen numerous battles. This was not a battle as much as a killing field.

"I will go with which ever decision the group makes, for the moment."

OOC: Serching for the following - Swords, Bow and arrows, Brigandine shirt and bronze cap, Boots and clothing in better condition and so on.

08:29, Today: Chang Jun rolled 7,16,13,17,8,6 using 3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6 with rolls of 4,1,2,6,6,4,3,4,6,6,6,5,1,2,5,1,4,1.  Search rolls:.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:47, Fri 01 Nov 2019.

Marduke grunts as he does not understand what the fair-skinned people are saying. Meanwhile he searches the battlefield for brigandine armor, a shield and cap, and any heavy blades or missile weapons. If a military pick catches his eye he will exchange the work pick for it. Lastly he looks for clothing and packs.

11:48, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8,11,15,12,14,14 using 3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6 with rolls of 1,1,6,3,4,4,4,6,5,4,2,6,3,5,6,6,6,2.  Search.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:04, Fri 01 Nov 2019.

After seeing the reactions of all gathered, Tiberio turns his attention back to the old man.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:08, Fri 01 Nov 2019.

Sarajen rejoiced at finding a piece of a brigandine shirt that fit him. This man was just as thin and wiry as he was, and about the right height. After a bit of cleaning and checking the leather straps for damage, Sarajen was satisfied he could use this piece with ease and comfort. Or as comfortable as a shirt of metal pieces can possibly be. Since these were sleeveless, they would serve him well in using his bow.

And a few extra arrows were always useful. Unfortunately, quivers were not found. These armies must not have had many archers in their ranks. But someone was using bows, as he was able to find a few arrows in the midst.

OOC: Adding the finds into my inventory on the character sheet.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:50, Sat 02 Nov 2019.

As everyone gathered and was stowing or girding what had been found. Tiberio is now wearing brigantine armor, shield and short sword.

"Did anyone not find rations? I found enough for three days."

The horse trader will indicate and share the five he has to make sure rations are distributed to the group.

"Everyone get ready to move, we are going to see what the horns signal.

Sarajen and I will ride ahead. We may only find more battlefield's, we may find opportunity."

Sarajen do oy have a way to mark an arrow as signal of our path?"

When all was said and done, Niamh did not look all that different after going through the dead. In essence, she just made sure she had better versions of what she had. Still, the clothes were relatively ill fitted if durable, aside from the sandals she wore, at least. And she now sported a bow to go along with her spear and short sword.

She was busy trying to make something work that they might carry some additional spoils that the remaining horse might pull behind it. Barring that, she hoped to make something similar, but smaller, that she might pull behind her.

She glanced at Tiberio and his mention of food. "I found a couple of days worth. We can sort out what we have when we are clear of here," she said, the time spent and the sounding of horns still weighing on her. At least they got some things of value that could help them in whatever was to come.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:13, Sat 02 Nov 2019.

Marduke finally answers "fish, one day. 1 bottle of drink" He is now wearing a Brigantine shirt, a metal cap, and a shield. He has his pick slung over his back with his bow, and both broadsword and shortsword belted at his hip.

Chang Jun was happy to have found a good set of sandals and better clothing. It may have been bloody it was mostly hidden by a shirt of brigandine that fit relatively well and didn't hinder his movement overly much along with a slightly dented but serviceable steel cap. He had also armed himself with a bow and a quiver which only contained eight arrows at the moment, and a scimitar.

As he approached the group he held up a wineskin and a pouch "Found a full wineskin and a pouch of dates. Maybe two days worth."

"Aye, there are ways. I don't want to use the arrows, so I will use swords. There are many of them here. Let us drive them into the ground, and tie a long streamer with two knots. Where the hilt points, that is our direction. Let us see what we find."

Sarajen understand they will have to ride together, slowing the horse down to a degree. But the distance is short.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:35, Mon 04 Nov 2019.

The Aquilonian marks the use of ribbon, knots and the direction by use of the hilt.

With the rations tied to his armor, leaving the spear behind, now that a scimitar is belted to his waist, some water to the mare, a few whispers of encouragement, then vaults onto the back of the mare, a hand to Sarajen.

To the others, "If a horn signals two short, one long and a rising note, that is one of us."

With that the trio start towards the horns in the distance, at a walk , then building speed to a trot, then a half run.

After weeks of near naked travel many of the party feel almost civilized once more, shod in armor and shield, sandals upon your feet and clothing other than rags (though much of these equipment bear the blood of their previous owners).  During this time your surroundings have not lain idle.  To the North and also to the East groups of men have appeared and move slowly through the field of dead.  They appear in no great hurry, halting occasionally to bend down; to what purpose you can easily guess.  The group to the North has a pair of riders while those in the East none but you can see several horses trail.  At this distance you assume they believe you one of their number since they have not challenged you...yet.

Tiberio & Sarajen have not traveled 100 yards before they find a deep set of ruts leading away from the field of slaughter; they appear to be left by a wagon.  There are numerous boot-prints along both sides of it.  The trail leads West and bears slightly North toward rising hills.

Continue to one of the groups of men?
Follow the ruts?
Something else?

Tiberio keeps the direction towards the switchbacks and ravines.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:49, Mon 04 Nov 2019.

Niamh nods at Sarajen's and Tiberio's intructions wishing them luck and safety as they depart. She takes in the groups of men at the North and East edge of the field and watches as Tiberio and Sarajen head off. She has a small frown on her face as she glances around.

"We need to start working our way off the field before these others get close. I say we follow Tiberio and Sarajen at a measured pace, keeping an eye out for additional booty. We could make a travois or two with fair sized shields, spears and lashings. That will allow us to take more items while not increasing our burden too much," she says to the others in Kothic and whatever other language will make her understood.

(OOC: She is still hopeful to find the makings of at least one travois. She will also keep an eye out for other items that might prove useful (food, trinkets, whatever) even if for no other purpose than to trade later.)

Does that mean you are trying to stay out of sight?

Marduke says

While waiting, Marduke seeks out a carry bag.


09:29, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,2,4.

Checking to make sure he had everything Chang Jun nodded, "Niamh is right, we should get moving before they arrive. I doubt we could talk our way out of a fight."

Chang Jun headed in the direction following Tibero and Sarajen. Keeping an eye out for anything of worth or any of th things Niamh had mentioned.

The horsemaster and old thief set off at a trot to the closest ravine which descends into the switchbacks to the South while the rest of the lot hoist their newfound belongings and follow at a slightly slower pace.  If the groups of soldiers on the field notice your departure they pay you little mind or have no wish to interfere.

The path chosen descends slowly over the course of nearly 200 yards.  You pass bodies here and there.  As the walls around your rise sounds drift to you, distorted by repeated echoing through the switchbacks.  It proves deceptive to determine their origin.  The winding has disoriented you so that you cannot be certain of the direction you travel.

Sometimes you pass columns of rock, completely worn free by wind and water, sometimes side passages open. Line of sight to between the two groups is lost quickly.

Everyone please move to one of the following private threads which should now be visible to you:
The Vultures of Shem - Scouts
The Vultures of Shem - Rear Guard
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 13:39, Wed 06 Nov 2019.

The group stands together once more with 3 of the surviving soldiers of Khoraja and a pair of bound Shemites clad only in their loin cloths.  One of the mostly naked warriors of Shem is short a hand and after the Khorajan has finished donning his clothes of white a short thrust of his shortsword ensures the man will suffer no longer.

Events have transpired while you have been separated.  Share and determine how you will proceed from this field of death.

Tiberio greets all his fellow Red Pit survivors, then makes an introduction.

It is some Kothic, which he still struggles with, and some Ophirian, some Argosian by habit.

"I would introduce you all to Marcian of Khoraja. He says that Prince Satabus and a Princess Neferet, am I saying that ..., were here on the battlefield, with Knights of Khoraja.

Our next step should be finding them. The tracks we passed over, the ruts leading to the hills, that likely is the path they took."

Tiberio can not help but put a hand on the mare and give it a pat of welcome.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:32, Sat 04 Jan 2020.

Niamh nods at Tiberio, glad to see him and Sarajen were okay. She has an eyebrow raised at their predicament, however. She also nods to the Khorajans as they are introduced.

"We encountered some Shemitish warriors, as well. They confused Syssiah for this Neferet...it did not go well for them. This...," she indicated the Zamoran woman. "This is for show," she said, clearly uncomfortable at keeping her companion like this.

She pulled their horses close to release the gag in case Syssiah wished to speak.

Marduke stands alert, adding  He smiles at the memory and adds

He moves forward to study the wheel marks.
there are no wagon tracks here, you recall some on the plains at the edge of the battlefield, before you entered these switchbacks
Marduke says
This message was last edited by the player at 00:17, Sun 05 Jan 2020.

At the words, as he managed to understand the short, terse language, of the man from Vanaheim, Tiberio went over and looked at each horse in turn trying to assess there health and temperament.

15:35, Today: Tiberio rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,5,5.  Animal Handler Equines          12-.

Speaking to no one in particular, "What of the Shemitish that remain? What numbers have you seen, have you heard any horns, what direction? Any signs of other soldiers from Khoraja?

You say the Shemitish recognized Syssiah. You spoke to a few before..."

The end trails off in hope the story would fill out what happened between the talking and Marduke's body throw.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:46, Wed 08 Jan 2020.

Marduke starts heading back to the battlefield where he had seen the wheel ruts. He tells Tiberio in his native tongue

Niamh glanced at Syssiah for a long moment, her lips tight and an odd expression reserved for the other woman.

She eventually was drawn back to the conversation with the men. "The horns we've heard have come from there," she said, pointing in the appropriate direction. "There are still men milling about the field, as we were. None in large numbers. Small groups, so far. No Khorajan's that we know of. Just dead men."

"They thought Syssiah was this Neferet. Said there was a bounty to bring her to the Shemite Prince. We were to be enslaved, once more. That was unacceptable," she added. "The Vanir let them know that. We agreed with him," she finished, a small smile on her face.

Tiberio and the Khorajan soldiers complete their disguises in the white robes and adornments of the Shem.  With half the band so dressed as the day's conquerors and Syssiah bound as if a prize trophy, it leaves only Niamh, Marduke and Chang as clearly not of the same unit.

Marcian asks Tiberio, first in Ophirian, then repeats in Kothic for all, "Though we will attempt to keep a distance from any in white it will not do for those garbed in Khorajan scarlet to be seen with us unfettered.  Can we not at least loop ropes around their wrists to give the illusion of capture?  They have already done as much or more to this beauty," He offers an admiring eye to the bound Zamoran princess.  "I am familiar with the Shemitish forces; if any approach allow me the opportunity to deal with them.  But should it become clear I have failed do not hesitate to draw your blade.  Better to die a warrior's death than suffer the bonds of slavers in a Shemite mine."

The other Khorajan soldiers nod their agreement.  They bring forth rope and offer to Marduke, Niamh and Chang to disguise their capture as they choose while the other ends are given to riders to hold.  Marcian takes the lead on one mare, the better to meet with any enemies encountered, while the remaining pair of Khorajan's walk in the back just behind the "prisoners" as if on guard (and have weapons within easy reach).  Tiberio and Sarajen select the remaining mounts while Syssiah sits bound upon the last.  The appearance of a conquering band escorting prisoners is complete.

"By the Gods it is well that you found us," Marcian does not try to hide his pleasure once the edge of the battlefield is reached, "Without the markings made for the others to follow we might have wandered in circles within the switchbacks for days." The truth of his words were all to clear given the number of side openings and branches that had been passed.  Who knew how many Khorajan and Shemite warriors had become disoriented since they had rushed into the switchbacks.  Only the Shemitish horns now sounded upon the battlefield, attempting to call back their scattered forces.  Those wearing scarlet could scarcely hope to heed the bugle of their enemies and surely pushed further and further into the wilderness.

The much larger number of white-robed warriors now upon the battlefield is evident.  Chariots and Calvary have begun to form ranks far out while footmen gather closer.  The nearest are more than 200 yards distant yet but it will clearly be difficult to remain unnoticed upon the open field for long.

"Which direction were the wagon ruts that you passed?" Marcian asks aloud, unconcerned with being overheard by any enemy at this great a distance.  "We might circle in that direction and not yet encourage suspicion.  Surely the pigs of Shem wallow in the day's victory and cannot believe any of those they scattered would dare to pass so closely."

His grey eyes once again regarded the Pict, counter to everything he knew, her words answered his questions. It was more shock at the how the words were spoken than they could be uttered at all. His mind worked to fit it what he experienced with what he knew before.

Syssiah.. safe in a ruse, Marduke straining to get to the next battle, Chang Jun silent, Sarajen riding alongside, the day was still long ahead of them.

The Aquilonian points to the rising hills, West and North, then turns to Marcian.


As they moved to circle round the battlefield and make there way, Tiberio will relax and between scanning the way ahead, think and listen for horns.

[Language unknown: "Sautpa ispeli whll Lickus k en, m our st Nison e le sta e preardera."]

Niamh reluctantly complied, but ensured that her rope 'bindings' were merely for show. She did not know these men. At least the others she had shared hardship of slavery and rough travel.

She made sure that one of the men near her had her spear and knew to give it to her if it came to that.

As they circle the battlefield, Marduke keeps his head low, intent on finding the signs of wheel ruts.

OOC: Extra time adds +2 or so to take a Turn searching, doesn't it?

17:48, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 14 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,4,5.  Perception 13-.

17:48, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,6,5.  Tracking 12-.

The horses take a wide path as the group watches for the markings of wagon wheels.  But there are few landmarks, the corpses are unremarkable from one another.  Try as they might, those who took note of the tracks before are uncertain whether they have been passed yet or not.

Those versed in the outdoors begin to suspect that a large number of the troops now massed nearby must have passed over the signs you seek.  Foot and hoof prints obscuring the ruts you noticed before.

Eventually it becomes clear that the trail has been passed.  You must turn back and take a wider arc.

"There is nothing for it," Marcian growls, "but it will surely draw suspicion.  Lest the pigs are too fat with their carnage and plunder I would expect one or more nobles to ride out to see what we are about.  If any here has a plan how we might explain ourselves or give reason why we tarry I would welcome it.  Note even the land is not completely flat in the direction we believe the Prince's caravan fled.  Could we but break sight with the forces here we might dispatch any who came to check."

The group turns back, angling away from the massed soldiers of Shem, closer to the edge of the plain.  You can feel your eyes drawn to the white-clad warriors, wondering if any watched and wondered.  Were they conversing about you even now?

You see small groups of men continuing to return.

A bugle sounds.  Marcian holds a hand up in acknowledgement toward the army but does not alter his course.

The minutes pass.  You can hear the thumping of your heart in your ears.

Finally Marduke notes a rut too wide for a chariot.  His hungry eyes follow the direction and he spies multiple bodies too richly clad to be simple soldiers along side some without armor.  Just what envoys and courtiers of a prince's caravan might wear.

The direction you must go is clearly away from the massed army, away from the plains and along the edge of the switchbacks.  You can see rises, small hills nearby which you could put between yourselves and any suspicious eyes.

You have found your trail though it took longer than you had hoped.  You are uncertain if you have aroused suspicion.

How will you proceed?  Discuss
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:35, Thu 16 Jan 2020.

It takes a minute or two and the Aquilonian turns the words over, before answering Marcian.

"I do not know the ways of this land, it's people. I offer this, We are all that remains of units that clashed, that we are tracking down the Khorajans that killed our unit Captain, once we avenge his death, we will return.

We can ride over the ruts ourselves and try to erase them."

Having heard a fine idea and mostly grasping it, the 'tied up' Marduke does his best to muddy the trail as they press on.

00:47, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,4,3.  Concealment 12-.

Niamh is not happy about their situation, but at least things seemed to be moving in the right direction finally. It took far longer than she hoped it would, but it appeared they had a chance at discovering the Khorajan prince and possible reward for his safety.

She wondered at just how different her life was, now. Glancing at Syssiah and her companions, then taking in the broader, desert landscape. She missed home, but knew that it was months or even years away...and she was not the same. Not yet. Maybe never.

The lingering threat of Shemite soldiers still weighed on them, too. The mix of clothing and gear she wore a stark reminder. She hoped that this resolved itself, soon. She wanted more control of her life, again. This...whatever this was, while something significantly better than slavery, was still a far cry from real ownership of her present and future.

Chang Jun followed along, holding the rope and hoping the ruse was sufficient. He was no tracker and had little way of assisting the big barbarians efforts to locate the track. So he kept his eyes and ears open watching the gathering soldiers for any sign of them heading their way.

Your path now veers nearly due West from the battlefield.  After a quarter mile your ears recognize the sound of hoof-beats closing on you.  A group of four riders approaches, "Asshuri" Marcian swears in a low but audible curse.  They wear scale hauberks and high canonical helmets.  These are elite mounted warriors, each city-state of Shem maintains such a group.

Tiberio recognizes the ease at which they seat their mounts.

You are still in open ground, roughly half a mile from the victorious army when the asshuri reach you.  They circle, stern eyes looking you over...though they seem drawn to Syssiah's bare form more than they should.

Each finally stops around you, as if to match points of the compass, while the man facing Marcian, Tiberio and Sarajen speaks,   The speaker points to Syssiah.  His tone appears stern, almost angry.

Marcian does not flinch in his reply,

The Khorajan in disguise speaks with passion but his body's only animation is the quick, short movements of his hands to add emphasis to his words,


 the asshuri asks.

, a hand waves toward Marduke, Niamh and Chang. 

The lead asshuri eases his mount closer to Syssiah.  It seems to be an effort to keep his eyes level with hers.  Frowning he takes her chin firmly, turning her face to better regard it.  Syssiah stares back into hungry eyes before the grip is released and those eyes fall once more in admiration.

Turning back to Marcian the leader of this band of asshuri calls,

Marcian shakes his head no.  The asshuri and he begin to argue.  After another minute the asshuri leader spits in disgust, motions his head to his men and the four turn to ride back to the main body.

When they are out of earshot Marcian shares with all, "Your plan worked, they did not question our motives to search for our Captain's killer though likely in no small part thanks to the distraction this one provided." he nods to Syssiah.

"Yet now was are further imperiled.  The leader of those asshuri was Ramsin of Akbitana and he desires Syssiah most highly.  When I told him we needed her, that we believed she was Neferet and displaying her so was what had lured Niam, Chang and Marduke  close so that we captured you, he would not relent.  He knew Neferet was Stygian and recognized Syssiah was not the princess.  This may be for the best as I could not have explained why I had not taken a captive noble to our commanders."

"Instead Ramsin tried to buy her from me.  He offered a small fortune by the end and was angered I would not relent.  I feared he might draw his blade, I tried to stall him, agreed to sell her once we marched back to Akbitana.  But I fear he will not wait.  He argued that using her so only put her life in danger and he would see her safely back to his household."

Your new situation explained, Marcian watches the retreating forms that will likely bring trouble all too soon.

At this distance, although anyone can make out that you are there they cannot easily see what you are doing or tell much about you.  You have ample options how to proceed.
 At least for now the army of Shem believes you are one of their own.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:24, Sun 19 Jan 2020.

Marduke says in his native tongue, knowing at least one would understand him,

Tiberio nods in gratitude that the conversation was handled well. Then did he look over to the Zamoran and wondered which was the stronger ploy, her assets or the words.

Then did the Aquilonian furrow his brow in thought as he considered what lay ahead.


"Marcian, what lays to the West? Why would a Prince be headed that way? Is there a stronghold? Mercenaries he could hire?"

"We will have to rely on their over-confidence and lack of understanding of our situation to correct things if he chooses to act before we are clear of here," Niamh replied, spitting the loose gag out of her mouth.

She nodded toward Marduke. "He's asking that we keep his pick close should trouble present itself. Having seen what he can do, I strongly encourage doing so," she said to the larger group. She glanced at the man who had her weapons, making sure he understood her needs, as well.

"Whatever we do, we need to continue away from here. If it is toward this prince of yours, so be it, but we must keep moving," she finished. Her hope was that this Shemite commander, Ramsin, be so enthralled with Syssiah that he might keep the larger force away to ensure limited challeges to his potential spoils.

Chang Jun continued with the group, he tensed ready for a fight when the other soldiers showed up. And watched impassively as they left. He was fairly sure they would eventually have to deal with the man, but hopefully they would be farther from the army when that came about.

The Khorajan soldier shakes his head in answer to Tiberio's question, "What hope had we, beset as we were, to reach any fortification in this desolate land?  If my prince had allies other than the treacherous King Ulam-Khala of Akbitana they are unknown to me.  As the horns to scatter sounded my unit and those left near me did so.  I assumed Prince Satabus did likewise.  From the well dressed corpses we pass it appears his delegation did follow."

"Then we must make a choice," Sarajen speaks up in Kothic as he looks back over his shoulder at the shrinking asshuri, "Ahorse we could not likely out ride the asshuri.  With 5 on foot we have little hope of reaching even the low hills there before Ramsin and his ilk surround us once more.  We must separate if there is to be any hope of locating Prince Satabus and finding sanctuary."

"Hear me," he straightens in his saddle, "Dressed as we are in their garb, I and these soldiers of Khoraja have already passed as members of the Shemite forces once, and we can do so again.  We three shall walk back to the army as its members and delay or deceive Ramsin as to your path should he ride after you.  Meanwhile you seven, for Marcian should accompany you to speak to his prince on our behalf, can double-up on the four horses and make all haste to follow the trail of Prince Satabus' caravan."

The old man climbs off his mare, offering the bridle to any of the pretend prisoners.  He looks to the group and smiles, "Do not fear, we will travel with either the Akbitana or Shumir forces until nightfall, then slip away in the dark.  It will be child's play to follow the path the army has left; we can meet at the old well were first we came upon the tracks of the army of Khoraja.  Else we will return to Khoraja itself and find you at the prince's palace."

Marcian's pair of countrymen look to him for guidance but he can only frown and nod his agreement.  They do not question, only add, "As this one says, child's play to slip past these Shemite pigs in the dark.  Have no fear."

Lest any can propose a better plan it appears another of your rebellion will walk a different path now.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:11, Wed 22 Jan 2020.

To Sarajen.

"Do you know how many days you must travel to Khoraja? How much water you need carry?
The scrutiny you will face if anything here had raised even a little suspicion?

If you have answers to these questions, then be at peace, we will see you again and hear the tale of your travels between as many cups as it takes to hear it all."

Tiberio will dismount to shake Sarajen's arm in the way warriors do.

Then will the Hyperborean move to examine the horses and make them ready for double riders, matching the strongest with the heaviest of their lot, pairs being taken into consideration.

Working swiftly, wanting as little time wasted, so the journey can resume.

Niamh grew a little frustrated with Syssiah and her...eagerness to play the slave. She slipped her hands out of the false bond and pulled that gag from the other woman's mouth. "Please, princess, this goes too far," she said, worried at the actions of the dark and pretty woman. She clearly was not used to seeing women behave this way.

When the Khorajan men came up with a plan, she seemed to approve, but recognized the potential sacrifice involved. Her opinion of the men rose substantially in her eyes. "Please be careful. We hope to see you soon and safe," she offered, her expression genuine and full of gratitude.

Niamh looked hard at the Zamoran woman. "Of that I have no doubt," she replied, having seen her throw herself on one of the soldiers earlier. She was no shrinking violet and clearly had more than enough heart to kill.

It was this other side of Syssiah had seen that Niamh was trying to reconcile. "When I put the gag back in place, it will be loose. It is imperative that you can speak if it becomes necessary," she said, giving the woman a tight-lipped smile, trying to meet her apparent needs with the needs of the group.

Seeing what passes between the two women, the course of action has to be made clear.
Kothic is halting, but the intent is clear.

"The time for ruse, over now. We ride as able fastest.  We need best speed, no bondage, two riders per horse, speed is our best ally, now that the three depart.

Horses drink, we drink, we start."

The words likely are more diplomatic and flow easier in a different tongue, Kothic made words more harsh.

Marduke breaks his fetters with ease. In Kothic he says  The mighty muscles bunch and release as he works out the kinks from prolonged 'bondage'.

Chang Jun was concerned about Sarajen's departure and intended mission, "Be careful old man. With the Gods favor we will see you again."

A small snort of a laugh escaped Chang Jun's lips "Marduke, at least your choices are consistent."

Marduke climbs into the saddle behind the winsome wench, and his hard-muscled chest presses her back. His ease with the horse says he is no stranger to the beasts. He snags his pick from Sarajen before the old man leaves and gives him a tribal sign of respect. The scholar was braver than most city-folk, and not overfed like so many of them. He sheathes his weapon across his back and wraps his strong arms around Syssiah as he holds the reins.

Niamh gathers her kit and spoils and gives Sarajen a quiet farewell. "Thank you, old man. Be safe and come back to us or find a home," she said, gripping his arm.

She could not help the small smile and nervous laugh escape her lips as she watched Marduke essentially claim the Zamoran princess. "A man who knows what he wants," she said, still unsure how to take Syssiah's behavior.

She looked to the Chang Jun and Tiberio, letting them decide with whom she would share.

Hearing the words of the Pict, Tiberio turns.

"With our four, Marcian and I can take lead as single riders, lighter and quicker, we are better to meet any needs."

Not expecting any counter offer, he vaults into his saddle and motions for Marcian to leave the Pict to the unarmed, unshielded man.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:21, Sun 26 Jan 2020.

As heal is put to shank the riders urge their mounts to top speed away from Sarajen and the Khorajan's in disguise.  The trio turn and begin the jog back to the massing army of the Shemitish city-states.  There is little time for further thought of their fate.

Bent low, knees held tight to your mounts, you follow the ruts thanks to Marduke's keen eyes and note the occasional group of corpses stiffened in death, and odd dropped item such as water barrels, a shattered chest of garmets of good quality, or other miscellaneous personal items.

For over two miles you maintain the trial at a furious pace, crossing stream beds, entering the low hills.  The armies of Ulam-Khala and Akbitana are out of view when a woman's angry shout echos loudly ahead.  You have no clear sight of the speaker nor what the words may have been thanks to the hammering of the hooves beneath you.  It is difficult to gauge how close she may be but you suspect no more than 200 yards.

Ambush? Warning?

Looking around at what could provide cover, both for attackers, for defense. Why here?

The shedding of weight for speed, understandable. Why backtrack? Water? Food? Some danger to riders ahead?

If the wagon had broken it would follow that it would be behind, those inside would continue towards the falling sun.

Were they to stop, that would provide easier targets for archers or spears.

Tiberio slowed his horse to a stop, signaled Marcian to do the same.

Once at a stop he slung his shield to his arm and waited for Marcian to call out.

"A woman!," she shouted just over the sound of the beating hooves. "Not far, perhaps your princess," she said, looking to Marcian.

She started taking in the terrain more closely as they slowed, all of it still so alien to her. She missed her forested mountains, the bleak desert land wore at her.

"Be careful revealing our presence. I do not think that shout was for us," she said as they slowed.

Marduke leaves the saddle and is instantly on alert. He identifies the source of the sound and creeps forward to investigate as he readies weapon and shield.

22:17, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,1,3.  Stealth 12-.

22:17, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 5 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,2,2.  Perception 13-.

As Niamh slowed the mount they shared Chang Jun slid off the side and cautiously moved forward along the opposite side of the trail from Marduke. Watching for any sign of an attempted ambush.

08:32, Today: Chang Jun rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,6,2.  Peception 11-.

The Vanir and Khitai stalk warily forward while the rest of the party await upon their mounts.  Marcian makes to call our but again the woman's cries of anger and struggle halt him.  Concerned he glances to Tiberio with uncertainty.  Meanwhile Marduke and Chang ascend a nearby hill.  Without the sounds of the hoof-beats the pair can also make out deeper voices and the occasional pounding and splintering of wood.

Once atop and lying prone they find the following tableau spread out before them: a smattering of men bearing the scarlet of Khoraja but otherwise in various dress, armor, weapons and
 nationalities are about the area.  One struggles with a veiled woman, well dress though not of so fine a garments as a princess might wear.  A handmaiden or other servant of the nobility perhaps.  Here now is a litter of fine silk and gold filigree fit for a princess but broken and fallen by the wayside.  More dead courtiers in their finery lie in their deathly repose as does a wagon wrecked and upon its side.  Even from this distance Marduke and Chang cannot help but notice a fragrant, almost overpowering scent of perfume rising from the area.  Those below seem to bear it no mind as they scavenge the bodies, litter and wagon for any wealth they can find and carry.

Here again do the living pick through the bones of the dead.  Scavengers gnawing at another carcass.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:28, Sat 01 Feb 2020.

Tiberio looks to the pair for any signal or signs of action.

Drawing his weapon, a look to Marcian indicates that they should be ready to ride up the hill and charge.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:43, Sat 01 Feb 2020.

Niamh watched and readied herself, keeping an eye on both pairs of men and the Zamoran princess still on the horse that Marduke had dismounted.

Although she could not see, the sounds seemed to indicate a struggle rather than a warning. "Be ready, Syssiah," she warned the other girl, as she flexed her hand on her spear.

to be clear, only Marduke and Chang can see the men looting the wagon and litter.   The hill blocks everyone's view.  For the moment this new group is unaware of your presence
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:34, Sat 01 Feb 2020.

Marduke taps Chang on the arm and mouths a silent word  and points beside them, indicating a need to have that person here to observe as well. Since Chang can communicate better than he, Marduke points at himself and points 'here', then points at Chang and indicates 'back there'. He then mimics the opening and closing of a mouth with his hand. He turns back to watch the scene unfolding before him and looks for cover that would allow him to move closer. He hand grips the haft of his pick in case they were discovered.


00:12, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,4,1.  Stealth 12-.

00:12, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,3,3.  Perception 13-.

This message was last edited by the player at 08:12, Sat 01 Feb 2020.

Chang Jun nods and slowly stats sliding backwards until he can stand slightly. He then moves back down the hill to join the others. "Appears to be looters. Wearing scarlet you should go take a look"

Tiberio looks to Marcian, then to the rest of the group. Kothic come s haltingly, and then in fluent Ophirian for Marcian.

"Looters will have no taste for a fight. We can ride through and move on. If they know anything of our quarry, anyone they talk to, will know what we asked about.,  That I would like to avoid.

Marcian, we ride forward, if they be only looters, leave the to it."

If Marcian agrees, we ride up and over and give Marcian the time to figure out what is actually going on. Be on watch for an attack.

Niamh thought it odd that the ones in scarlet would seem to be looting from their own, but then she did not really understand much of the world. And she supposed that if her own situation became dire enough, she would absolutely scavenge from her own kind.

"The woman, if she is being harmed, we protect her," she said, matter of factly.

"Wearing the scarlet of Khoraja?" Marcian muses in Kothic, frowning,  but shrugs quickly, "I cannot fault them.  A month ago many were peasants in search of bread, trained quickly to earn coin to feed their families.  That need has not changed though they were betrayed along with Prince Satabus.  Let us go then."

As soon as Marduke and Chang have remounted, the group spurs on their mounts once more.  The thunder of hoof-beats must have alerted the Khorajan looters, as you round the hillside and come into view of them you can see the men forming into a defensive line.  You estimate at least a dozen well armed and armored men watching you as you ride...when suddenly Marcian reigns hard to a stop.

"That is the litter of Princes Neferet!  These are the mercenary guard of Prince Satabus!  What has happened that they pillage the litter and wagons that were in the prince's caravan?  Where is my prince and his princess?"

The Khorajan draws his sword, the flames of vengeance in his eyes.

Marcian has halted and demands to learn anything these men might know of Prince Satabus and Princess Neferet.

What will you do?

As soon as Marcian reins, Tiberio follows, though given no warning, he stops a few horse lengths forward of the native of Khoraja.

The names come through the Shemitish tongue, the tone is clear.

Answer or be put to the blade. Tension now grabs at the shoulders and back.  The horse must be commanded to not move by all of his riding skills.

The advantage of numbers balances in the favor of the looters. Tiberio looks for those with bow or spear to be first to grow their advantage.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:35, Thu 06 Feb 2020.

OOC: Marduke held his position. As soon as he saw the others riding forward he sneaks up, using natural features and broken wagons for cover. He is a short distance from the scarlet clad thugs when his party appears. Marduke waits to gain the element of surprise.

23:57, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,5,4.  Stealth 12-.

As soon as the horses stop Chang Jun slides off the side to the ground. Moving to the side to allow Niamh free reign to do as she wishes. He quickly swings his bow around and readies an arrow as he waits to see what happens.

Niamh slips from the horse shortly after Chang Jun does, as she is not trained to fight from its back. She has bow and spear ready as she follows the others to the crest of the hill, driving the spear into the ground while she readies the bow.

As the trio free themselves of their mounts and take up a ready stance Marcian trots his own forward and addresses the gathered men in Kothic,

There is a murmuring among the mercenaries and searching eyes, likely looking for signs of others in your party.  The fellow Chang and Marduke witnessed forcing himself upon the woman pushes his way to the fore, dragging the handmaiden with him.  Once he stands before his men he regards you quizzically before finally laughing,

There is a relaxing of the ranks of mercenaries; several offer their own hoots and jibs to you before their spokesman raises his hand for silence.   he points

The woman at his side strikes suddenly, the heel of her hand to the speaker's temple, enough to startle him and relax his grip.  Pulling away she stands tall, righteous in her wrath and accusing,

The backhand catches her full upon her cheek; she crumples where she stands.  Breathing heavily, still enraged, the speaker mutters something you are unable to hear before turning to face you once more. 

The company of mercenaries are unafraid and unimpressed with Marcian's words.  But you do have promising information on where the prince has gone.

What now?
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:45, Thu 06 Feb 2020.

PM
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:43, Thu 06 Feb 2020.

As soon as the woman struck the mercenary, Niamh was readying her bow to strike. The arrow she knocked was at full draw by the time he struck her...if possible, aimed at the leader, if not, an enemy archer. She is barely restraining herself at the moment. Her anger showing itself in a low gutteral growl emanating from her throat.

This message was last edited by the GM at 03:33, Fri 07 Feb 2020.

Chang Jun listened to the conversation and was not liking what was said. Such dishonorable men deserved whatever they got. As he the big man struck the handmaiden Chang Jun swung his bow over his shoulder and strode forward facing the man.

Now come the choices which will decide the fates of many, while the corpses of those whose fate has already been sealed can only stare blindly upon.  These men without a prince stand ready to face you, for who are you that they should fear?  Your names are not sung by any fire, no not yet.  Here, with the stench of death masked by broken jars of sweet perfume, must a fork be chosen.

Marcian grimaces, glances to Namiah, then Marduke.  He appears uncertain and does indeed turn in his saddle to ask, "I cannot be certain this one speaks true yet he has little reason to lie.  They outnumber us handily.  What say you?  Shall we press for more answers or press on?"

We are not combat, at least not yet.  You are free to move as you will.  We will only fall into move order should someone attack.

If anything is unclear in the map please ask.

There is a dry creek bed, shallow at barely 4 feet deep.   The princess' litter lie broken there (J22).  The wagons that you can see clearly have been ransacked well.   Marduke can tell that a large number of horses and men have criss-crossed this general area.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:45, Mon 10 Feb 2020.

It would take any spark to light this field. The barbarian was the most likely to set the blaze. The least likely to understand the consequences. A fast quick exit, that allowed both sides to win.

How to balance that..

"Take what is not broken.  We will be on our way.

You have chosen a hard road, what lays ahead, I do not envy, you seem hard men, it is possible you will survive.

We offer to lighten your burden. How much for the serving girl?"

If his words did not make them stop Tiberio will look at the ice barbarian and Chang to let them know they should stop advancing.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:39, Sun 09 Feb 2020.

Niamh is still holding her bow taut, waiting on the reply from the apparent leader of the other group. She would not leave that girl with these men.

"Your few moments of gratification will not be worth the delay in keeping her with you. We will take her and you can be about your business. Enough bloodshed for today," she called out from behind her drawn arrow.

Marduke did not like the odds. Still, surprise could even those odds momentarily if needed. Slowly, quietly, while the civilized people talked, the red-haired barbarian made his way to the creekbed crouched low. Using the weeds and broken carts as cover, he eased closer.


19:26, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,5,2.  Stealth 12-.

Quietly to P-10, easing to P-12.

As Tiberio makes his offer and Naimh adds reason the rest of the party remains silent, waiting but watchful.  The talk of gold has the men's attention.

The rowdy mercenaries do not immediately stop their catcalls and taunts when their speaker holds up his hand for attention.  He turns and curses them, the men calm, still arrogant in their numbers but quiet.  Marduke uses this moment to move into the dry riverbed unnoticed.  Finally the speaker lifts the handmaiden to her feet, gripping one arm and asks, "You offer to buy this servant?  I have no need for weapons or armor, of that we have plenty for the choosing lying at our feet."

He considers a moment, weighing the handmaiden's worth before shrugging, "20 gold.  This one served royalty, no common maid, surely she is skilled to please a master."  Again the mercenaries grow boisterous; raunchous in their taunts, again their leader berates them to silence.

Smiling finally, holding the woman out slightly in your direction he repeats, "20 gold I say."
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:07, Sat 15 Feb 2020.

Tiberio dismounts, and walks half the distance from Marcian to the mercenary.

His sword is put back in his sheath as he walks, that free hand travels.. slowly to his belt and inside a small pouch.

The hand withdraws from the pouch but does not open.

"Agreed. Send her to the Pict." Motions to his right side.


"Come, let us be done with this. We all have other places to be."

With that the closed hand, opens its fingers, slightly, and an object is turned over, once, shown towards the mercenary.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:15, Fri 14 Feb 2020.

Niamh shifts to the right as Tiberio dismounts and moves forward. She was fairly sure that Tiberio was bluffing, as she had yet to see any gold among the bodies of the men they had looted. That meant that the game would be up once they realized they had been lied to. Even if they did not bother to check, they might assume that if we had that kind of money, they might try to kill them for the rest of what they think they have.

She is determined to make them pay for this and can only see this ending one way. She keeps her bow taut and shifts slightly to the right to allow for a better shot should it turn the way she thinks it will.

The lead mercenary is her primary focus, but she glances beyond him from time to time to keep an eye on the larger group.

Using the shallow creekbed and destroyed carts for cover, Marduke takes advantage of the situation to creep closer, to P-16 (broken cart therr is hanging half over creekbed, granting even better bonus cover). He doesn't know what is being said, but he knows predators when he sees them.

04:51, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,5,1.  Stealth 13-.
Made it by 5.

Chang Jun glares at the leader, shifting ever so slightly as he readies himself for possible combat.

The contents of Tiberio's hand catches the mercenary's eye.  With a self-satisfied smirk he approaches the horsemaster but does not immediately release the woman.  All eyes follow the pair as they move, offering Marduke the distraction he requires to reach the wagon unnoticed (not even by the pair of archers who stand upon its bed for a clear field of fire).

Face to face now Tiberio can recognize the cold, hard eyes of this leader of scoundrels, no stranger to combat if the many scars upon his arms and face are any indication.  He maintains his hold upon the handmaiden's arm, firm but not cruel, and nods to the closed fist for a second look.  Assuming Tiberio obliges the fellow will ponder a moment before straightening and shaking his head, "A bauble, not worth the price we agreed to by half.  This and another 10 gold and our business is done."

He waits in a relaxed stance, likely emboldened by the superior numbers at his back yet...Tiberio feels certain his blade will appear instantly at the first sign of treachery.

While Niamh maintains her aim upon the mercenaries' leader, so too do their archers train their shafts upon the small band before them.

The grip of avarice is strong, stronger still, on those who seek to barter with strength they can not see.

Mitra, I ask the veil to be lifted, so the scale show truly, numbers  weighted against  strength and experience.

"The Pict warrior to my right has put an arrow into the eye of a man at one hundred paces, I have never known her to fail a killing blow at this range.

The Khitai is a warrior that carries no weapon, because his hands are a living steel

The ice barbarian can kill three men in one swing.

The Khorajan horseman will ride down men just for the pleasant sound of hooves trampling flesh.

My blade is still slick with the blood of the Shemites I beheaded earlier this day.

You stand because Mitra asks me to spare all of your lives.  Release the slave, take the gem, anything else you like, we leave it to you, and live for another day."


Roll it
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:56, Wed 19 Feb 2020.

The fellow raises an eyebrow, looks round (though Tiberio suspects he never truly takes his eyes away from him), before meeting the horsemaster's eyes again and laughing, "By the Gods you've spirit!  I've four times your number yet you'd have me believe you are sparing my men their lives.  Whether your people are as deadly as you say or you're simply a madman, the fact remains that my men and I fight for only two things:  money or our lives.  And so I believe I will accept your offer," he pushes the woman gently towards Tiberio before motioning for the item the Aquilonian holds, "and be off before more asshuri pass this way."

Assuming Tiberio completes the exchange the bauble disappears into the the folds of the man's clothing in a single, smooth motion.  Turning to go, he pauses, looks back and asks, "I am Asander.  By what name are you known?"

The handmaiden moves to Tiberio's side though her eyes are searching.  As yet seems uncertain if her lot has improved in this exchange or not.  Her veil hangs askew thanks to Asander's slap.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:19, Fri 21 Feb 2020.

Niamh breathes, but does not release her bow until and unless the archers of their group relax, as well. "Come to me, girl!," she calls out, wanting to get her away from Tiberio and the mercenary leader.

"Don't linger," she adds, her eyes searching the other group.

The woman moves from Tibero but hesitates at the sight of the Pict before checking her progress.  She regards the savage, uncertain but without fear, before her eyes flow over the rest of the strange band that has now paid to claim her from the mercenaries.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:35, Sun 23 Feb 2020.

With the bauble handed over, Tiberio waves the serving girl away from him and to  Niamh, never really taking her into account, except as a means to an end.

"When next we meet, you shall have my name."

After waiting the moments it takes the girl to get to Niamh, Tiberio walks backwards, slowly, not letting his right hand lower anywhere near his blade.

Backing to Marcian's position then turning to get to his horse and vaulting once more into the saddle.

A questioning glance to Chang Jun.

Assander simply chuckles, "As you say, madman.  Let us hope that it will be in the service of the same noble.  Yes, that would be best."

The mercenary regards Tiberio return to his mount, glances to the Pict's shaft still trained upon his breast, then shrugs and walks toward his men.  With a whistle and a hand motion, the throng noticeable relax and begin to grab their possessions."
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:51, Sun 23 Feb 2020.

After the others were back to the horses Chang Jun waited long enough for everyone to mount before he withdrew, keeping a wary eye on the Asander and his men. Once at the horses he waits to see if who the handmaiden rides with.

Chang notes that, though the mercenaries relax, there are always eyes upon the group and occasional conversation between two or more with a nod to their direction.  It brings to mind wolves regarding prey.  At the moment the predators do not appear hungry.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:50, Sun 23 Feb 2020.

The eyes that meet Syssiah's are sharp, defiant as they behold the Zamoran's appearance of bondage at the hand of those she rides with.  A moment's glance toward Asander and she takes hold of the rear of the saddle and vaults to sit behind the princess.  Her decision made.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:31, Sun 23 Feb 2020.

Seeing a transaction take place, Marduke relaxes slightly, but does not reveal himself. Although it looks like a peaceful conclusion, the Leader might have one or two hotheads loathe to let an advantage slip away...so he keeps an eye on the bowmen, ready to react if need be.

20:11, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,5,4.  Perception 13-.

The Vanir will need spend at least 10 minutes under the wagon before he will be able to safely sneak away.  During that time his simple knowledge of Kothic may catch snatches of conversation which could prove useful.  Please provide PER and INT rolls to see what is overheard.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:45, Sun 23 Feb 2020.

If it appears to remain calm, with parties going their separate ways, Niamh slowly moves toward the horse she and Chang Jun share. Her bow remains notched, but she slowly relieves the tension.

She did not like being in range of their archers and crossbowmen while they made their way around, so she kept an eye on them the entire time.

It will be a short retreat. When Marduke rejoins, signs of full retreat given to all, a respectful vigilance maintained until it seeps into all present that there will be no aggression, the group will go up the hills they spied from and back down to the ruts they had been following, Marduke as tracker.

Then it is clear that realignment, questions and getting back to the task of riding hard to find the Prince.  The passage of the day being what they needed to conserve the most.

If Niamh applied her skill while others asked questions, that speeds the time until they return to the trail.

Whom will ride with who, now it was either Tiberio or Marcian that would have a second rider and for the sake of the horses, no men should double up.

Once introductions and the offer of a ration or water, questions can be asked.

To the serving girl, "What was the state of the Prince, his guard, when you were separated?"

The previously unseen barbarian, once the retreat is in full swing, casually carries pulling the cart he was hidden behind to the group. Once there he rotates it lifts the rear and says in his native tongue  Once his message is delivered he sets down the cart and awaits a decision. If it is decided to press on, he climbs back aboard his horse (with his nubile passenger) and gets back to work discerning the Prince's trail.

GM edit

The Vanir is mighty, especially for this setting, but everyone would be waiting a loooooot longer if he tried carrying the wagon the whole way back to them
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:42, Tue 25 Feb 2020.

Marduke spent some 10 minutes under the cart until he could safely sneak away. During that time he may have picked up snatches of conversation.

09:46, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,1,1.  Perception 13-.

09:46, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 15 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,6,5.  Int roll 12-.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:39, Tue 25 Feb 2020.

The exchange takes place upon the earth where Niamh can examine the woman for injury.  Yet dark eyes glare back from her veiled face as names are given and she refuses the touch of the savage Pict.  She regards the fierce Vanir and exotic Khitai with similar distrust.  Each of you can see only superficial abrasions upon her bared arms, though there should be a bruise forming on the cheek that felt Assander's caress, now hidden by her replaced veil.

When asked of the Prince she stands spine-straight demanding, "And what concern have you for Satabus' welfare?  Mighty Set willing he outrides the asshuri even now carrying his love to safety.  If you wish for ransom I think you will be left wanting."

Marcian is taken aback, takes hold of the white robe he wears and rips it near in half in anger, "Upon my life I will never betray my prince.  Not as Assander and his pack of dogs.  Not even in death."

Sweeping his arm to encompass all of you he adds, "And these travelers have lent aid to I and Prince Satabus' men at peril to their own lives.  Only by their swords have I reached this point in search of my prince, one of their own staying behind in the guise of the enemy to mislead any asshuri who may follow.  These horses could carry all to safer climes, yet here we stand, knowing we may face dozens of the finest of Akbitana and Shumir ere we find Prince Satabus and Queen Neferet, and still none cry stop."

His point made Marcian stands cross armed, his words finished.  The handmaiden appears unsure, her sharp stare slowly flowing over each of you in measurement.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:52, Sat 29 Feb 2020.

Eventually, Marduke sneaks back to the group. He says in broken Kothic

Niamh notes that the woman is seemingly offended by her very presence, the Pict's eyes narrowing at the snub.

Then the woman speaks in defiance only to be chastised by Marcian. They were still in grave danger as the Shemite forces were still in the area and she still had no trust in the mercenaries they had just interacted with.

She turned to Marduke.  she said to the mountain of a man in his native tongue.

 she continued.  she finished.

She turned to the maiden.  she said in Kothic.

She glanced at Syssiah before turning to Tiberio, Chang Jun, and Marcian.  she said, another glance at the maiden as she said the last.

With some effort, time an context, Tiberio heard and then understood what was said.

Still learning, the language felt awkward, however his usage of Kothic improved. Whatever
art their was to his words, it seemed to spare the Pict from the stark position they all were in.

"Speed is the whole of our tactics. Speed is what will bring us to the Prince and succor his position.
Speed will carry us further from both the asshuri and these craven mercenaries.

Speed is what was bargained for with the mercenaries. Our welfare and prospects are now carried by these horses.

We ride only as far and as fast as they allow, and their burden became one larger.

We leave the cart behind and we ride as fast as Marduke can read sign of the cart.

The handmaiden can take your place or ride with me, choose."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:55, Tue 25 Feb 2020.

Marduke tries to make sense of the diatribe. "Want Speed? No cart. Will track." Marduke tries to find some sign of the fleeing Prince.


22:03, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,4,2.  Perception 13-.

22:03, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,1,4.  Tracking 12-.

This message was last edited by the player at 06:04, Fri 28 Feb 2020.

Though trust is short the handmaiden agrees to ride on with the group, now holding tight to Tiberio while Marduke takes his place once more upon the same mare as Syssiah.  The trail of hoof prints left by the score or more asshuri riding in pursuit of Satabus and Neferet prove easy to follow at first, such that the Vanir's guidance is only rarely required to maintain course.

Niamh notes once more the half hidden glare upon her but it appears...softened, more wondering than resentful.  Perhaps Marcian's words have planted a seed that may yet deepen its roots.  The Pict reflects that such distaste (and even worse) has flowed from so called "civilized" persons she has encountered since her travels abroad began.  As though their soft, unnatural facade of order and enlightenment could not stand the reminder of the savagery lurking within all.

Focused as he is upon the path ahead Marduke notices none of the regard of his own savage person.

Of Chang and Syssiah there is no appearance of concern.  The initial uncertainty of the exotic Khiati has perhaps passed.  The Zamoran, appearing as a slave, is thought of as such.

As miles begin to fall away the terrain become more chaotic and rough, sloping upwards into low and jagged foothills.  Something of it tickles the subconscious of those of you with experience in survival, especially Naimh who has crossed deserts before.  The Aquilonian surmises that it is no natural landscape you travel, but the sand-covered ruins of some ancient city.  A short while later you spy carved black stone set amidst the reddish foothills.  Soon after long-collapsed structures, even stretches of flagstone streets or squared stones that marks the remains of walls poke up from the ground.  All are now aught but rubble.  Here now the tracks become more difficult; as ancient flagstone or broken stone resist hoof-print.

Everyone please make PER rolls
Marduke Tracking as well
Everyone - actions?  discussions?
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:07, Sun 01 Mar 2020.

Niamh thought little of how other thought of her...except, perhaps, her companions. Trust born of shared pain, conflict and sacrifice. The new addition to their group clearly seemed uncomfortable in her presence. Something had long grown used to in more 'civilized' lands. She had seen their concept of 'civilization' and found it largely lacking. Still, she was not in her home and she would have to make concessions, her and there...much to her loathing.

Still, she was not actively seeking enemies at this point, either. But they continued to show themselves...allies, as well, at least. Marcian seemed to have a good head on his shoulders. And who knew how this might play out should they actually manage to save this Korhajan prince and his bride. If it got her a step closer to home, it was worth it.

With the warning from things overheard by Marduke, they still had not only the asshuri to worry about, but the mercenaries they had just dealth with, as well. These things were on her mind as they continued through the canyon. Eventually clearing it into rough and jagged foothills, she noticed a significant shift in the nature of their surroundings. Remnants of manmade structures becoming more clear.

The could easily lose the ability to track in this terrain. "This will help in losing any following, but we will likely lose your prince if we are not careful through here," she said in Kothic, glacing around at the possible places for ambush.


17:07, Today: Niamh rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,1,6.  Perception 12-.

The savage Marduke pauses as he sniffs the air. He then draws back as new information flows to him about this new locale.

16:23, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,2,5.  Perception 13-.

16:23, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,5,1.  Tracking 12-.

The ride is a balancing act, speed and having a second, means the maneuvering is limited. Though the shield is still strapped to his left arm, it was clear that the Aquilonian was trying to speed along and pick a good path.

18:51, Today: Tiberio rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,6,4.
PER 12-, 13
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:53, Mon 09 Mar 2020.

This message was last edited by the player at 13:21, Mon 02 Mar 2020.

Chang Jun sat quietly behind Niamh as they rode. He admittedly was far more comfortable letting the lass control the horse, his horsemanship still lacking. He watched the terrain change as the continued their trek. As the entered the ruins of what at one time was probably a large city he became more attentive watching for any signs of danger.

OOC: 08:09, Today: Chang Jun rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,2,6.  Percetion 11-.

At Marduke's behest the group slows its pace in mixed terrain which forces the Vanir to cast a wider eye for the tracks he seeks.  But find them he does, veering the party right along what might be an ancient thoroughfare and then over a long decayed wall.

The Pict is first to spy to white upon the reddish dust and black stone.  It resolves itself into a sturdy white Ophirian warhorse equipped in rich and opulent barding and harness, the armor gilt and the saddle of leather and wood and sturdy enough for a mounted knight.  Tiberio recognizes its hide is slick with sweat, trembling and wide-eyed with fear, nostrils and the edges of its mouth foamed with saliva.

The handmaiden grips the Aquilonian's arm, her voice choked with fear, "It is Satabus' warhorse!"

The stallion slowly turns away from strangers it does not recognize but its exhaustion prevents it from more than a weak shuffle.

Of the prince himself there is no sign.  The sword sheath upon the saddle hangs empty; the tether for his shield likewise.

It will take an animal handling roll at -2 to calm the animal enough for any interaction.

Actions? Thoughts?  Questions?

To the handmaiden, "What is his name?"

The stallion was quite the exemplar. Tiberio slowly dismounts, reaching for water and asking others to share some of their water.

To Marcian, Tiberio asks the soldier to dismount and begin speaking softly to the horse in his native tongue, while Tiberio takes the water  and slowly approaches.

No fast moves, no motion that would dominate. His hand will cup and a small amount of water will balance in it. The approach is always where the stallion can see him, pausing if it turns away or walk, circling again to be in it's eye.

When close and if the name is known and water accepted, the horse trader will speak the stallion's name in a soft and comforting manner, none here could know the trauma of the stallion's physical state better than the Aquilonian.

Tiberio heart was full of sympathy for what must have caused such a state, knowing likely it's fierce heart and training to carry the Prince.

17:45, Today: Tiberio rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,5,4.
Animal Handling 12- -2 = 10-, 13
This message was last edited by the player at 00:46, Tue 10 Mar 2020.

"Tiberio, I can help," she said, as she dismounted, leaving Chang Jun alone on the horse she had shared.

Slow and steady, keying off Tiberio, who she knew was very experienced with horses.

(OOC: Assisting Tiberio with Animal Handling
20:03, Today: Niamh rolled 3 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,1,1.  Animal Handling.

Wow, not sure a crit on an assist means anything, but there it is.)

When you assist someone you roll to complement the main skill user.  For every 2 points you beat your roll by you lower the difficulty by 1.  You just lowered Tiberio's difficulty by 5; hell there should be an additional bonus for rolling a crit.  Well done
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:49, Tue 10 Mar 2020.

Marduke did not know horses, but he knew men. One does not abandon a fine animal and go afoot unless he is travelling where horses cannot go. He circles the area, seeking some sign of a portal or entryway. Stairs or tunnels, something convinced the Prince to take blade and shield along.

20:34, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,3,5.  Perception 13-.

20:34, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,5,4.  Tracking 12-.

20:33, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,1,6.  Concealment 12-, complimentary roll

Chang Jun slid forward as Niamh dismounted, and took hold of the reigns as he stroked the horses neck trying to keep it calm and quiets. He looked around the area as he did unfortunately everything looked the same to him.

09:02, Today: Chang Jun rolled 16 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,6,4.  Perception 11-.

"Tempestas," the veiled woman answered, her dread thick in Tiberio's ears over the missing rider.

As the horsemaster gathers his enticement for the great beast, Niamh moves to block the stallion's weak flight from the only aid it was likely to receive.  Black eyes roll with fright that muscles are too exhausted to put to flight.  As Tiberio approaches from behind, calling softly to Tempestas, Satabus' mount is pressed closer between the Aquilonian and Pict.

Tiberio touches Tempestas' flank at the same moment the stallion's forehead presses into Niamh's chest.  The Pict accepts the animal, whispering softly in her savage tongue as she places her hands upon it.  The instinctive twitch of the muscles Tiberio expects at his touch immediately cease; the horsemaster notes as the great chest expands in a mighty intake of breath, then releases slowly.

As he reaches Niamh and holds out the water to Tepestas, the stallion turns and accepts the liquid calmly from the Aquilonian.  The eyes are at ease and though there is still signs of exhaustion it appears to be little more than Tiberio would expect after a good, hard run.  The stallion's tail swishes as he nuzzles the horsemaster's hand for more.

Chang is left atop his unfamiliar mount.  He felt he was becoming somewhat accustomed to the saddle and attempted to offer the mare some soothing pats, but the horse moves suddenly and it is only the Khitai's quick reflexes which keep him from toppling to the ground.

Meanwhile the Vanir presses the hunt, following back along the path that Satabus' mount appeared to come from.  50 yards further and ears long trained to note the sound of snow touch ground hear the unmistakable rasp of metal from off to his left followed by a low groan of pain.  Drawn hence Marduke does find a man in plate armor, half-propped up with his back to a low wall, broadsword still in hand, the ground stained with his an other blood.  The area around him is almost a butcher's table, the corpses of asshuri and their horses strewn wildly, almost as if tossed haphazardly around.  The white robes stained crimson in gore.

Niamh can feel something deep within her at the contact with the terrified and brutally fatigued animal. The words that came felt...ancient...but natural to her in the moment. She could feel the change in it as Tiberio worked his way to the head of the beast.

She gave Tiberio a nod and small smile, not totally understanding what had just occured, but knowing how right it felt as it happened.

She glanced at Chang Jun as the beast seemed to try and leap out from under him, but she relaxed as soon as it seemed he was able to retain control after a moment.

Looking back at the Aquilonian, still stroking the head and shoulders of the magnificent horse. "He should be quite a bit better, now. He is still anxious, but that has lessened some. I don't know how connected he might be to his master, but I imagine if we can find him, it may help ease his distress," she said to the man in Aquilonian.

It is a true unguarded moment, that moment where Tiberio is witness to something he knows, has felt himself, and never thought he would see it's like from a  savage.

No words, just a comforting pat to Tempestas, his eyes now upon Niamh as if looking at her for the first time.

Now it was on to what was at hand.

Tiberio took a step back, increasing his awareness now to look at those gathered, each horse and swiveling to find the the ice barbarian.

His mind went to threats, to the horses, to each of them.

The Khitai was watching, the Zamoran still.. difficult to read.

The terrain, what was around them for cover, and the where one might get a position to overlooked this place and the way that any followers might be.

The time of day, gauging the weariness of the group, the need for rest.

The barbarian throws his arm high, waving it madly, but not verbalizing lest he attract the attention of the deserters. He risks a single word aloud in Kothic.  he says, hoping to get the group's attention.

Tiberio looks to the Khitai, looking for reaction.

Then his eyes go to the horses and the Zamoran, it was not an attack, could be distraction.

Any swift action may cause a reaction from Tempestas, and best not to risk the connection that now existed with Niamh.

Slowly Tiberio backs away form the stallion and goes to collect the reins of the horse Chang sat on, then to the horse of the Zamoran.

A hand went to hilt, but it appeared to not be necessary.. yet.

Alert but no danger manifests immediately
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:20, Fri 13 Mar 2020.

Niamh tried to continue to ease the horses anxiety as Tiberio changed his focus to their companions. "I've got him," she said calmly to the Aquilonian, understanding his intentions. She reached up, continuing to stroke and comfort the animal as a hand reached for the reins, but not putting any amount of pull on them for the moment.

She glanced over at Marduke, the man clearly had found something important. "Shhh...," she cooed to the beast, still trying to comfort the horse.

"Tempestas...," she soothingly whispered, hoping that her speaking his name would help some. "You're okay, boy," she continued, keeping her voice calm and melodious.

The stallion, although not fully recovered, appears calm and well now.  It's immediate terror stilled though its eyes do roam and an occasional snort is given as if something irritates it's senses
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:45, Fri 13 Mar 2020.

The Vanir tells the armored man  He looks around at the dead bodies, seeking shirts or other materials he can strip off the dead. Although he was unskilled at dealing with wounds, others might need something to bandage the man's midsection.


00:27, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,1,4.  Perception 13-.

Marduke has seen enough of battle to recognize how serious the man's condition is.  The Vanir has witnessed men die from less.

Turning to the corpses of the asshuri, Marduke does note the sign of sword or dagger wound but...also what appear to be claw marks raked upon naked flesh.  Horrifyingly the Northman recognizes that some of the bodies he searches appear to have been gnawed upon.

Only now does the low carrion stench of the area become apparent.  It strikes Marduke as odd given that these men were slain perhaps hours ago and have not yet gone to rot.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:18, Fri 13 Mar 2020.

As Tiberio took the horses reins Chang Jun slid off the side and headed to where Marduke was. Laying his helm and weapons aside he approached the wounded man and gingerly began inspecting his wounds as he attempted to stabilize the man.

OOC: 08:52, Today: Chang Jun rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,3,1.  KS: Khitai Healing 11-.


Chang recognizes that the fellow is barely conscious, barely alive, and completely unaware of his surroundings.  Protruding from his arm, leg, and shoulder are arrows, with the cut shafts of at least two others in thigh and side. The worst of it, though, is the end of a broken sword blade sticking out of his breastplate, impaling his torso.

It will be no easy feat to stabilize his condition.

See next GM post for more...

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:05, Fri 13 Mar 2020.

Other than the call from Marduke these ancient ruins are without sound or movement.  In point of fact, there is an erriness to their solitude
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:42, Fri 13 Mar 2020.

Niamh slowly starts to try and ease the animal to join the others in Tiberio's hands, gently soothing and cooing at the beast as she did so. Clearly something had her companions' attention.

Truth be told, she would be glad to be free of this place. It was...odd to her.

"What is going on?," she asked, when she got close enough to not have to speak too harshly next to Tempestas.


22:26, Today: Niamh rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,5,2.  Perception 12-.
22:26, Today: Niamh rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,2,2.  Animal Handling 13-.

At Marduke's call, once Chang slips to the ground and runs in answer, so the handmaid and Marcian follow in hope of finding their prince.  Swifly outpacing the pair, Chang is already examining the man when the handmaiden reaches the scene and cries, "Satabus!" flying to the prince's side.

Though she is clearly loath to disturb the tending of Satabus, she calls to him, perhaps without realizing his limited awareness, beseeching, "Amunet?  Satabus, where is Amunet?"

Marcian will gently restrain her from further outbursts but she sobs in his grip as she watches Chang work.

To save a prince:

This will require a total of 10 successes with healing/paramedic skill.  You can describe how you will approach each task, once you roll for every point you meet or beat your healing roll will count as 1 success.  You may have another character assist, they can roll their healing skill as a complementary (or vice versa if you choose to assist them) to reduce the difficulty.  For example, if your their skill is 11-, for every 2 points under their roll they make increases your skill by 1 for that roll.

Only 1 other can assist in this task.

Use of herbs, bandages or other appropriate supplies can further reduce the difficulty by 1 (ie, if your skill is 11-, using herbs makes it 12-). But you'll need more for each attempt.

If you do not beat your roll his condition may worsen.  At 6 points of failure he may even die.

Assuming you reach the 10 success mark, no further rolls will be necessary.  Each attempt will take approximately 3 minutes.  Grave as his condition is taking extra time is not an option.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:38, Fri 13 Mar 2020.

Tiberio turns, facing Niamh, but his head is a quarter turn away, his eyes, searching while he talks.

"They have found something, it would..."

The cry, followed by the beseeching tone ended the horse master's words. He need say nothing more. The circumstance that caused the reactions remain as unknown to him as the Pict.

It was time to find a place to tie the horses, a place where reins could be secured, that could resist well efforts made by horse.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:47, Fri 13 Mar 2020.

"We found our missing prince, it seems...," she said, her voice trailing off a bit.

She took in the landscape, once more. Giving a quick glance to Syssiah, the beautiful Zamoran woman, still sitting and apparently bound. Her eyes lingered a moment at just how regal she seemed while presenting herself as a slave.

"Do you have them?," she asked the Aquilonian, holding the reins to the large beast to him. "Or would you rather I take them?," she offered.

"I have them. We are due for a rest."

Tiberio will shift his eyes to follow the Pict, turning them on the Zamoran.

Breaking with Niamh, taking the stallion now to a close by spot to examine th ehorse, remove any saddle and equipment and try to find anything that could pass as a brush, let alone something to serve as a blanket to keep it warm.

Niamh nodded to the man, giving him a small tired smile. It had not been easy ever since her capture and enslavement. Even obtaining their freedom and continued efforts to remain so have proven difficult and troublesome. She hoped things would get easier soon.

She made her way to the small gathering of people...Marduke, Chang Jun, Marcian, the maiden, and Satabus. That he might somehow still be alive was impressive on its face.

She gave a nod to the large redheaded barbarian who had apparently found the prince before settling in next to Chang Jun. "How does he fair?," she asked the Khitai warrior, taking a look of her own, noting the wounds and how they might be addressed.

She waited for his response before offering a plan. "We may, yet, be able to save him," she said, gently touching here and there and thinking of the materials they had available. It would take much of them, but if he was someone valuable, they would be able to leverage that to their benefit.

Marduke continues to gather materials for rough bandages from the dead asshuri around Satabus. As he goes from body to body he looks for poultices or strong drink...anything that might help with wound closure or pain management.

OOC: Would Survival skill help in any way?

01:14, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,5,4.  Perception 13-.

You will be able to find sufficient cloth to serve as bandages after 5 minutes of searching through the bodies.  In addition there are 2 intack water skins.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:16, Fri 13 Mar 2020.

Chang Jun paused as Niamh joined him "It is a wonder the man still lives. The sword wound is the worst." he lifted the cloth and allowed Niamh a better view of the wound.

"We should see if someone could find some clean water to boil, once the sword tip and arrows are removed the wounds will need to be cleaned. Do we have any herbs left that will be of use?"


OOC: Chang Juns skills in healing are all at 11-, if Niamh's or someone else's are better he will assist them.

Niamh nodded at Chang Jun's assessment. "I don't know how much water we have, but we should spare some for this. I have some herbs, yet, not sure if enough for all of these, but some," she replied.

Niamh has Healing 12- and maybe a little something else but she can't rely on it, yet.

After 5 minutes of searching, Marduke returns with enough cloth to serve as bandages, and 2 intact waterskins.  he says in his broken Kothic.

Niamh started pulling out her stash of healing herbs and set aside two or three for their group, but was willing to use the rest in this attempt to heal Satabus. As she was finishing setting up her materials, Marduke came back with two new waterskins.

[Language unknown: "Lin vorlesous, fi a man illtictra io li ntnase eners an yintictin, din anyro uritmoth is cema ha wiceha, aillic. Mi pllo, wessad ulons eauin m u,"] she said to the large barbarian, giving him a tight-lipped smile and nod at his efforts.

She looked at Chang Jun and gave him a nod. [Language unknown: "Latast?,"] she asked, ready to start as soon as he was. [Language unknown: "Beutmi priswe chiv hi cangos ecriom el undntehouame la osus verwasdin elncpe le ne i,"] she went on, making sure he understood her intent.

She gave a nod to the others as soon as Chang Jun was ready and went to work...praying as she did so. The spirits of her ancestors and the earth needed to watch.

21:54, Today: Niamh rolled 12,13,11,14,8,10,6,9,14,7 using 3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6.  Healing (Paramedics) (12-).
21:56, Today: Niamh rolled 14,11,13 using 3d6,3d6,3d6.
21:57, Today: Niamh rolled 9,10 using 3d6,3d6.
Thats 10 successes and 5 failures with just her Healing skill. Might take less depending on how many herbs we had available, would use them early until we ran out. Also, possibly less if Chang Jun rolls well.

Under Niamh's directions, Marduke got a fire going nearby. Looking for a pot for boiling water, Marduke liberated Satabas's helm and turned it over. So long as the seams held, it would make a serviceable pot.

00:30, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,1,1.  Survival 12-.

Chang Jun picks up the herbs Niamh has left and quickly separates them and helps ready them for use. When Niamh was ready Chang Jun nodded, "Agreed."


OOC: Rolls
To help ready the herbs - Succeeds by 2 on both.
08:20, Today: Chang Jun rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,4,4.  Herbalism 11-.
08:19, Today: Chang Jun rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,5,1.  Apothecary 11-.

To assist Niamh's work
08:21, Today: Chang Jun rolled 9,16,10,7,11,11,15,12,11,10 using 3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6.  KS: Khitai Healing 11-. 6 success on KS skill and 3 failed if needed.

08:21, Today: Chang Jun rolled 8,14,8,8,10,10,14,9,17,7 using 3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6,3d6.  Paramedic 11-. 7 Successes 3 failed

Guess wee will see how things go now.

Tiberio begins to unsaddle and inspect the horses, looking at hooves, legs, and listening for the beat of the heart.

Clearing an area to put the saddles and make an area where any could, if an attack came, lie down.

It was still midday, he needed to find a brush and begin looking to comb the mane and tails as well as find some sort of ration they could eat.Maybe be that the under lining of armor from the fallen could be used to cover the horse at night.

Tempestas needed to be kept warm, his exertion, the sweat of it needed to be removed.

Whether the Zamoran had anything to contribute was yet to be seen, his eyes did wander in her direction in some interest, also to keep aware of her activity, or lack of it.

While the Vanir tends to the fire and heats water in the prince's helm, Niamh and Chang bend to the difficult task of stabilizing Satabus.   The pair are able to cut the straps holding the prince's breastplate to his chest and then slowly, carefully lift it free, also drawing the broken blade from his body.

The bleeding is severe now that the wound is open.  Niamh calls for more bandages which Marduke has prepared in plenty.

Trying to hold the wound closed with pressure proves fruitless, the lifeblood flows between the Pict's fingers as she searches for the source of the bleeding.  Furiously Chang mixes the dried herbs in the makeshift pot and begins to soak strips of cloth.

The pallor of Satabus' face is gone ashen by the time the Pict locates the problem.  She calls for a heated blade!  Chang's cloth is laid on the wound to numb the area and to aid the blood to clot.  A precious minute later the metal tip glows hot and the stench of burnt flesh stings the air (as does a cry of pain from Satabus' lips).

Marduke aids to hold the prince still now, a few bandages into is mouth to ensure he does not bite his tongue.  Niamh and Chang find two more spots to cauterize before they agree that the wound can be closed.  The arrow heads prove less difficult, though the one in the prince's thigh bleeds strong until the pair of churgeons can stem the flow.

After nearly an hour it appears the prince will indeed live.  Some color has even returned to his cheeks.

"Incredible," Marcian whispers.

The handmaiden appears pensive, "When will he wake?"

Water is pressed to Satabus' lips, his body reacts, accepting the liquid, choking, then gulping more.   Shortly afterwards his eyes open.

As the prince's color starts to return, Narduke says to Niamh

The Zamoran  met his gaze, he paused, then returned to brushing and checking the horses. His hands smoothing down the hairs along back and rear legs.

Though he was aware of her movement, it was when the sound of pain and the remarking of Marcian that he stopped and moved to the scene of the activity, now taking it in and all that was being.. had been done.

The Prince would live.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:33, Fri 20 Mar 2020.

Niamh was exhausted as much by the mental strain as by the actual physical effort. While it was not heavy lifting, it was meticulous and exacting. She idly wondered if this man was the kind to hold slaves. The truth of it probably something she wanted to ignore.

Still, he was a means to an end. Everything, now, was done out of pragmatism and necessity. If helping this man would increase her chance of living, then that is what she would do.

She took in a deep breath and let out a heavy sigh as she finished, easing back on her heels, as she wiped her brow with the back of her wrist. She hand were covered in the man's blood, but he would live. "Thank you, Chang Jun," she said, her voice tired but sincere.

She closed her eyes and nodded slightly at the sound of Marcian's voice, glancing at the handmaiden when she asked her question. She shrugged at the woman. The shaman had no idea. His loss of blood was staggering. That she had stabalized him was a blessing from the spirits.

She gave Marduke a weak smile at his compliment and nodded at his assertion. "His will to live is, indeed, very strong," she said quietly.

As water was pressed to Satabus' lips, he reacted well enough. The fluttering open of his eyes a mild surprise, but a good one. "Apparently, now," she finally replied to the handmaiden's previously unanswered question.

Chang Jun sat back and crossed his legs, willing himself to relax. A smile crept onto his face at Niamh's words. "It was an honor to work beside you Niamh."

In his homeland such would be unheard of, women were not allowed to practice healing save for as midwives. Let alone be warriors such as Niamh, but he had never held much with the idea and his time in these barbaric lands had only proven his beliefs.

Taking a piece of the remaining cloth he wiped his hands clean before taking a handful of sand and scrubbing as much remaining blood from his hands as possible. He then handed a second piece of cloth to Niamh beforre he began boiling more water to finish cleaning their hands.

Leaving Marcian the handmaiden takes Niamh's place at Satabus' side, "Satabus, can you speak?"

The prince's eyes are unfocused at first, uncertain, only managing a weak, "Who?"

"It is I," the woman lowers her veiland revealing her face for the first time, "Neferet". Uncovered now you recognize her Stygian complexion, the ugly bruise from Asander's blow bright upon her cheek.

"What now?" disbelief and anger grips Marcian until he moves to see the princess's face fully, "Gods, it is!  But how?  How is this possible?"

Neferet ignores her soldier's question for at the sight of her Satabus seems to will himself to focus.  He grips her arm in his mailed fist as best his weakened condition allows.  His voice is not strong, if any care to hear his words they would need move closer.

"Neferet!  Ishtar be praised.  Forgive me, I could not..." he chokes on tears "The asshuri hounded us but Amunet and I eluded them briefly as we entered these ruins."

"Gods if we had known!"

"We sheltered here, swearing to a last stand, dying together if it was our fate and so it seemed when the asshuri found us.  I charged them, tried to draw them away from her but they pulled me from my horse.  When still I refused to surrender their leader stepped forward and drove his blade into me."

The memory seems to shock Satabus, he looks down expecting to see a broken blade still in his torso but finding only bandages.  But there is a chill in his eyes as he meets Neferet's gaze once more.

"I swooned from the pain and the sound of Amunet screams, only briefly, and as I awoke a...chittering...cackling arose from the rubble all around us, as if from some dark nightmare.  The asshuri were confused, they hesitated, turned...and then they began to die.  Amunet reached me as it began and we held each other watching in horror as the demons of this cursed place descended upon us all."

"They were like men but they were not men, ghastly in form carrying an awful stench.  Lean were their bodies topped with faces of pure horror, long fangs and distended jaws, with eyes red and burning.  Their clothing was nearly rotted from their frames.  They tore into the Shemites with their bare hands, bit at them with jagged teeth, and stabbed them with rough-bladed swords.  They pulled the horses down as well to meet the same fate and tore at the dying flesh with gore-streaked claws and teeth."

Satabus' face reflects the terror of his mind as he relives the events while relating his story.

"Amunet helped me to my feet but I could do little to defend us against such horrors.  The creatures focused more on the asshuri who fought or tried to flee in terror.  When their full attention finally fell upon us there arose a fearsome bark in their midst.  The largest of the monsters stepped forth, a huge club in his hands.  In his gaze was a fierce, evil cunning the like of which I have never seen."

"At his command the creatures fell back and let him approach.  He stood over us, regarding us with his terrible eyes, before suddenly striking Amunet sprawling and senseless upon the ground.  I fell with her, still holding her hand, barely conscious from the impact as the demons surged around and over me.  They pulled her from me, took her.  They took her!"

He is overwrought with sobs for a moment before choking out,"What ghastly fate awaits her?  My love, my Amunet!"

Anyone with an appropriate KS may roll to see if they recognize the creatures Satabus describes.

Those without an appropriate KS may make an INT roll at -4 to see if they have heard of any rumors or legends.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:32, Wed 25 Mar 2020.

Chang Jun continued to quietly clean up as he listened to the prince's story. He had never heard of such creatures, but it was apparent from the number of bodies and the look on the princes face that something had decimated the asshuri.

09:51, Today: Chang Jun rolled 12 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,2,5.  Int roll (12 - 4) 8-.

Marduke listened with rapt attention. Despite his courage, his fist tightened on his weapon haft as he heard the horrific description of the attackers. He swallowed that fear as he realized they would soon face these unknown horrors when they rescued Amunet.


09:39, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 15 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,5,4.  Int check 8- (12-4).


He started looking for signs of where the creatures must have emerged, but could find nothing.

09:43, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 15 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,5,4.  Perception 13-.

09:43, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 14 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,5,3.  Tracking 12-.

The area is awash with criss-crossing of footprints, making it nearly impossible to follow.  The Vanir is able now to recognize the strange, misshapen prints made by inhuman feet and that old and new tracks can be found far and wide in the immediate vicinity.  There is no doubt the demons lay claim to these ruins.

Unfortunately he is unable to discern a direction for the creatures.  The search would need continue.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:50, Sat 28 Mar 2020.

The words came out... as they would from a man grievously injured, the Aquilonian moved closer to hear what was said, for the moment laying his shield aside so he might fit in closer.

The recounting of the story, clearly it had different effect on each person gathered to listen. Of all the words spoken, Tiberio could not know what others weighed more than others. In each description Tiberio heard corruption, rot, disease, blackness. There was one remedy that cured all of those afflictions.

It could be that, many had many paths to choose. Or many chose the same path.

The day was waning and an account of what they had at hand needed to be taken to form a plan.

It seemed certain going under these ruined streets was at hand.

Tiberio began to cast his eyes about for what was at hand. His left hand again reaching for his shield and returning it to it's comfortable place, while standing and yet, marking each in turn for their actions.

13:22, Today: Tiberio rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,1,6.  INT roll at -4  rumors / legends 8-
This message was last edited by the player at 05:38, Thu 26 Mar 2020.

Niamh gave Chang Jun a grateful look and nod at the comment and wet cloth he offered. The blood on her hands was a mix of dried and still wet blood, the stickiness of it cloying to her skin.

She had no idea what type of creature he spoke of as what he described was like nothing she had heard of despite her fair bit of knowledge on creatures of the outer dark. Perhaps this was something local to this place. No matter, it was concerning in the extreme.

She glanced at Syssiah as she spoke, the harshness of her words brutal and cutting. Her eyes narrowed, unsure of where she obtained such deep loathing. It was Neferet the others had mistaken her for, not Amunet. The veil revealing the similar look between the two women.

"Syssiah, that is not helpful," she said, chastisingly. "We have a decision to make and this place is clearly cursed," she went on, the later comment directed at the larger group.

"If these beasts or demons were as you say, we would be no match for them in our condition," she added. "We are still pursued and need to keep moving."

09:09, Wed 25 Mar: Niamh rolled 18 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,6,6.  KS Denizens of the Outer Dark 11-.

Hot and cold, I suppose.

Pain creases Satabus' face at the lash of the Zamora's words.  Neferet's own eyes burn in anger which Niamh's soft rebuke does little to extinguish.  Marcian goes so far offer  warning to all, "Have care for your slave's tongue!  Many have been lashed for less than..." but Neferet's hand stays any further threats as she rises to face Syssiah, then looking over the rest.

"We are not in Khoraja," she reminds her loyal soldier before turning to Tiberio.

"You claimed to desire allies and have amply offered service in finding my betrothed.  Greater than any of the mercenary ranks which marched with us this fateful day." Marcian spits in disgust at the mention of the swords-for-hire while Neferet promises,  "Should we ride from these bedeviled ruin now and safely reach Khoraja I will personally see each of you are rewarded with an arms-length of gold and no less."

"But know that though I may one day sit as queen," her gaze washes slowly over each of you, finally resting on Marcian, "Satabus and I are joined by political allegiances with my homeland rather than of the heart.  In truth, it is my twin sister Amunet whom the prince loves and she him.  Amunet joined me when I was first sent to Khoraja, taking the place of my handmaiden, and when the attack fell did exchange garments in the hope that a handmaiden might slip away where a princess would not.  Few in Khoraja have seen Amunet's face or know of our relation and less of her bond with Satabus."   Neferet's gaze bores into Marcian who bows his head in silent promise to maintain this secret.

Satisfied the princess breathes deeply, steeling herself perhaps, before offering, "Understand then that should we ride without knowing Amunet's fate it is to abandon not only Prince Statbus' true love but also a princess' brave sister.  Yet if instead your wench is correct and Amunet is kept for some ill purpose, if there is any opportunity to snatch her from such fate...then should we pass the palace gates with her in our number I will ensure you are bathed in riches."

From her demeanor it is clear to Neferet's will is strong yet the concern for her sister run deep.

"Anything!" Satabus adds hoarsely, "Rescue Amunet and but name the price and it will be yours."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:07, Sat 28 Mar 2020.

The horse master does not turn away from the eyes of Neferet, he meets them and holds them.

His words take a moment to utter after the hoarse declaration of the Prince.

"If it can be done, it must be started now. We need fire.

Can the Prince be moved? Or are we left here at least one night or more?

Where were you traveling, how long from here would it take? Where are the nearest loyal forces?"

Who moves and what they do as they move is of great interest to the Aquilonian.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:39, Sun 29 Mar 2020.

Niamh takes in a deep breath and releases a heavy sigh. "She is no slave, nor wench. She presents herself as such as a guise. She is a Zamoran freewoman taken from her home," she replies to the handmaiden, her eyes landing on her olive skinned companion. The inflecton as she contemplated revealing what little she knew of the woman.

She tried to remind herself that these people were not responsible for her slavery as she held her tongue. Part of her wished to tell them to shove their riches up their arse, but she was not in her lands and she would need allies and wealth if she was ever to return. If they would even take her back...

She glanced at the rest for some type of consensus before she looked back to the pair, once more. "We will do what we can, but we are few and fatigued and with some of us wounded, already," she replied, conceding their situation as something they would be hard pressed to avoid, anyway.

She nodded at Tiberio's comment. "Yes, fire cleanses and protects against many things, including evil spirits," she offers. She did not recognize the things the prince spoke of, but certain things held true in dark realms. "They seem to feed on fear, as well. Understand that when and if they come," she offered.

"He can, if we are careful. His wounds will reopen if we hasten too much," she added at his question. "A night of rest would help. Several would be better," she said, but knew the answer would not be popular nor realistic.

She looked around for a means to carry or drag him so he would not have to ride or walk. "If we could create a travois, or if we dare return for that cart...," her voice trailed off, not liking the latter idea even as she said.

Marduke grunts "Many tracks. Which way take her?" He looks at the ruins from which the prince claimed the creatures emerged. He seeks tunnels or passages into the earth, for surely that is where Amunet was taken.....


00:47, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,3,4.  Perception 13-.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:47, Sun 29 Mar 2020.

"Help me," Satabus offers his arm to Marcian, Neferet moves to the opposite side and soon the pair have the prince standing shakily on his feet.  Satabus grits his teeth against the pain of his wounds as he rises but the bandages of the Pict and Khitai hold.  Still it is clear Niamh's caution against reopening the prince's wounds are well spoken.  There is little chance can can accompany the search for Amunet.

"There," he points, "toward that jut of fallen column.  They passed to the right of it and out of my sight."

Neferet places herself under Satabus' arm to better bear his weight but only with the help of Marcian.  Even without his breastplate the armored noble is a mighty load for most to bear (Marduke not included).

Marduke searches the indicated area and soon finds signs of recent passage.

01:27, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,4,4.  Perception 13-.

01:27, Today: Marduke the Red rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,2,3.  Tracking 12-.

Knowing where to look Marduke recognizes the misshapen footprints mixed with tracks of sandals and a pair of drag marks, likely from Amunet's feet as she was brought along unconscious.  He cannot guess their number for it seems the entire group must have left this way, more than two score he feels certain.  It may still be challenging if they pass over stone or ancient cobble but the Vanir is confident he can follow them across a dusty track with ease.

+2 Tracking to follow trail
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:58, Wed 01 Apr 2020.