The day of the caravan's arrival has dawned.  It is overcast, with a possibility of rain.  The water would be welcome as the nearby creek has been growing narrower.  The zones around the toxic fungi have been roped off to avoid accidental exposures.  It's not too near the muddy track that leads from Yenth, but better safe than sorry.  The fungi themselves should be ready for harvesting in a few more days, if anyone is so inclined.

The tracks for the turret are firm and functional.  The defensive structure has a fair deal of mobility within the walls.  The lumber for trade has been brought to the southern gate of the clave and stacked neatly, sorted by size.

The wagons(?) are not expected for a few hours, so there is time to make last-minute preparations, if necessary.

Mhari, will reluctantly but with certainty suggest the Toxic Fungi be harvested by those with skill in toxicology to determine the BEST ways for the toxins to be employed for the defense of the Clave either in a gas delivery or treated ranged weapons like arrows, bolts and darts ~ potentially blowgun needles.

For himself, Mhari disdains the use of what he considers 'underhanded' use of poison, BUT he IS a pragmatist in that the lives of the innocent settlers he is charged with defending are more important than his personal sense of honorable propriety.

Mhari spend his time if possible recruiting a small 10-man group of settler to teach the basics of self-defense..starting with unarmed combat first and how to roll with a fall.  Its small and minor but he request 4 hours out of a week in training and exercise to toughen up with the goal of forming a small militia of peace-keepers.

Any free time he spends either Tinkering with the "Mass-Blaster Slugspitter", mostly trying to determine its limits and fashioning the perfect grip for its use, OR Riding Z'Dakk in the skies high above the Clave, soaring on the daily breezes...
This message was last edited by the player at 16:28, Sat 11 Dec 2021.

Buojrez retrieves the flute from Nalla and brings it to Alberic and Zalbane for their inspection and opinion.

Level 1. glinting metallic pipe with valves on it out of the ground.  It's a flute of some sort, it seems, although there are buttons and dials on it that are unlike anything Buojrez has ever seen in any tavern band's instruments.

"I found it nearby, I can show you after the traders come through. There might be more numenera there, but also some danger."

Zalbane examines the device and smiles with understanding.  "I've seen one of these before.  They call it a Woodwind of the Broken.  Most of the time, you can just play it like a regular flute, with some different tone settings here."  She plays a few notes of an off-key melody.  "But when it's on this last setting, it won't make any noise that you can hear.  However, something else can hear it and will coming running.  Broken Hounds.  It might come in handy, but be careful with it."  She hands it back to Buojrez.

Woodwind of the Broken, level 4: This musical instrument can be played normally, but it has one setting that produces no obviously audible noise.  If a tune is played on this setting in any area open to dry wastes, temperate lowlands, or mountains, a pack of 2d6+6 broken hounds arrives within a few hours or less at the location where the instrument was played.  Once summoned, the broken hounds revert to their normally vicious demeanor.  Depletion 1d20.  Can still be used as a normal flute after depletion.

Janik had arrived a few days early, he'd been in the wilds for about a month but found little of interest and only a few days ago realised his supplies were running low.
He decided to head to the nearest settlement for a resupply and had found himself walking through the gates 48 hours earlier.

Now with a full belly he was moving around the stalls looking for what he needed and deciding whether to cut his losses and move on to pastures new to continue his search.

He had spent a few hours that morning at the wall and gate studying its construction and taking notes working out the foam like structures strength and density.

He'd also decided to hang about for a few more days before heading out again as he'd heard a rumour that there was a caravan heading his way omits way north that might allow him to head out with them when they leave
This message was last edited by the player at 07:48, Sun 12 Dec 2021.

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 4):

Mhari will ask Zalbane if he might observe while she examines the device asking her about the detailed process of examination and categorizing the abilities of unknown cyphers or artifacts.  More concerned about the analysis process to gain a familiarity with the examination of such devices... the way AEON Priests are expected to learn and do.

Buojrez saunters over to the newcomer inspecting the wall. "Looking for anything in particular?" she asks while nonchalantly looming over him.

The first of the caravan carts can be heard along the path through the distant trees.  A driver can be heard shouting about the trail markers leading the fledgling clave.  Soon, the population of the space will double or even triple.

OOC: Mhari, I'll let Zalbane figure out the explanation stuff when she's on again.

Anyone have any thoughts on where the caravan might circle up for the night?  What if there are other visitors?

All the newcomers can jump into the scene at any point here.

Mhari will move to engage the newcomers and will begin organizing them into two orderly tent camps just outside the two gates into the clave... letting them know that lodging is still under construction and as soon as permanent residence are completed people will be determined by the Clave Council the apportionment of housing for the New Settlers.  The Tent Camps near the Gates are so that if any threat is posed to the Clave the settlers can be moved into the fortified walls of the Clave for protection rapidly for safety.

He admonishes them ALL to be patient; soon their housing needs will be seen to.

Positive and Pleasant Social Interaction - Trained {Trying to keep people calm and organized into neat temporary living arrangements}  Extra Effort/2: Intellect cost: 3
22:10, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 17 using 1d20.  Positive and Pleasant Social Interaction - Trained / Extra Effort/2 {3INT}. – 17
This message was last edited by the player at 02:11, Tue 14 Dec 2021.

In reply to Mhari 'Stormbolt' (msg # 9):

As Starr stepped out of the caravan, she took a moment to review  her life.  With the recent death of her creator, the Lord of Stars, the destruction of his Staff of Power and her escape from the clutches of the Convergence, much had changed.  She had  taken  on a new name, had the tattoos that marked her as her master's slave removed, even divested herself of all her gear, including several powerful weapons.  Now, far away from what she hoped was the influence of the Convergence, she looked to find a home to begin her new life.  The only thing she had kept from her past was the verred she had first gained after her quest to find her Master had begun.  It was her only reminder of the trials that had brought her here.

Spotting someone who appeared to be in charge she moved forward to speak.  "Good day, I am in search of a new home and hope this can become such.  What must I do to earn a place here?"

Mhari turned to the woman and bowed politely, "Then we will all do our best to help you find that home here if that be your wish.  We have only a Council of Experts who discuss the obvious needs of the New Clave, and decide on a consensus of what is most urgent to do first, then find out who present can be asked to help to those efforts.  You want to belong.. make yourself available to help and all your needs will be seen to."

"I'm Mhari sometimes called 'Stormbolt'.  I'm working with the Order of Truth, to help establish this New Clave and perhaps begin my own apprenticeship to be a Aeon Priest.  But for now I'm a skilled glaive working to build a militia for the protection of the Clave. Nice to meet you... Miss??", he extends his left hand in greeting the shifting pattern of runes in the overall shape of a lightning bolt a slave-tattoo upon his forearm cannot be missed!  Which is odd for he does not have the diction of a slave and he is clean, richly dressed in appealing varying shades of blue, white & grey, his gear is expensive and well-maintained certainly not a young man unaccustomed to wealth and education!  His hair is a pale shade of blue with strands of white and grey here and there and his eyes a eerie frosty blue.

The tattoo does indicate the sigil of whom he was thrall to if Starr is familiar with such things...

Equally hard to miss is Mhari's companion a large 'Z-Drake', for once, grounded nearby instead of soaring the hot summer breezes above.  Named Z'Dakk, though its actual name is unpronounceable as its is a series of varying electromotive potentials and growls, the beast is of human intelligence, but speaks only through telepathy ~ physically it is very similar to the Xi-Drakes of some renown except for it being slightly smaller, possessed of four wings, a striking sky-blue skin tone, and being a half & half electro/omnivore ~ currently feasting on some citric fruits for their electrolytes.

"Z'DAKK" {Zap}Z-Drake

_{{Z-Drakes look like this but are slightly smaller, a uniform Azure blue, and with four wings 'two primary and two smaller secondary near their posterior sides'}}
This message was last edited by the player at 03:54, Sun 19 Dec 2021.

"I am called Starr.  A pleasure to meet you.  Do you prefer Mhari or Stormbolt?  I am willing to do what is necessary to help the community as a whole, but can not say I have a special talent to offer.  Is there anything you wish me to do at present?"

Alberic has duly appeared from his workshop at the first hint that the caravan is on its way. Greeting newcomers is important, he feels, though he has never been terribly good at it.

He hobbles out in the direction of the new arrivals. He has an uneven gait, using  a lage metal clock-hand as a crutch which he grasps with a thick leather mitt - and yet he moves surprisingly quickly, though the effect is more of scuttling than walking. His right hand is uncovered - though it has clearly acquired various scars and burns. He wears a long and travel-stained duster coat, covering most of his body, and his broad-brimmed hat is pulled down over his left eye, as if to disguise this. Tools clank at his utility belt, and a long pipe pokes out from under his hat, releasing a cloud of orange-coloured smoke that smells of tangerines.

He appears to be completely oblivious to his disconcerting appearance, waving cheerfully with his free hand, and calling out: "Welcome, welcome! Do come on in! My name's Alberic! "

Seeing Janik, and realising he has had little chance to speak with him in the two day's he's been here, he leans over conversationally, and declares: "Some call me 'Alberic the Half Consumed', after a little run-in I had with the Iron Wind. Quite an experience. But, er, I don't think we've spoken yet, lad. What's your name?"

The caravan leader accepts Mhari's instructions.  Along the path out of the south gate, the trade wagons are lined up, especially with those intended to carry the lumber on the west side of the trail for ease of loading.  Crates of tools, cooking implements, building supplies, food, and Buojrez's requested textiles are readied for the bartering, to be negotiated the next day when good light would allow for adequate appraisal of the wood.

The east gate is soon encircled by the residential and performance wagons.  Tents spring up around a few, groups of caravan guards, minor traders, and associated migrants content with the slow pace of traverse that traders require in exchange for the safety of numbers.  A group of musicians is among the travelers, as well as wagon of story tellers, actors who portray various tales and legends of far away lands.

Of those along with the caravan but intending to settle at the clave (apart from the new PCs), there is another carpenter and her family, a pair of brothers who explain they have some practice with stone work and know their way around a verred, and a sole Varjellan who introduces themself as a forester and foraging expert.  They had studied briefly in Qi, but felt compelled to return to their beloved trees (quite odd for such a visitant).  They have agreed to work on cultivating a number of fruit and nut trees in the area to support the clave.

Watching her huntri dive to catch something to eat, Raelle waits until the interaction between Starr and Mhari is finished before she moves lithely to Mhari after Starr had left.  She looks far younger than she is and is wearing simple, yet sturdy, loose-fitting clothes that hide the various scars and marks she’s acquired in her explorations.  They also hide the small armored sloth that is strapped to her chest in a harness.  She has a well-worn pack slung over one shoulder and a walking stick in one hand.

She clears her throat, having not spoken much in the last few days, and introduces herself.  Her tone is professional but is slightly clipped, “Hello Mr. Mhari, I am Raelle Pellegrino.  I am a member of the Amber Gleaners and have been contracted by the Order of Truth to help continue the establishment of your clave.  I understand you might be in need of some exploratory and foraging services? I am an expert in exploration and salvaging Numenera as well as the flora and fauna of the area.”

She pauses and looks around, thinking to herself, This could be a good place to settle down.  “Where would you like me to bring my equipment?”

In reply to Starr (msg # 12):

Mhari smiles, "Well met Miss Starr.  Mhari will do thank you.  Worry not everyone can contribute something to the communal effort, I'm sure you have skills you may not even realize as yet but for the immediate ~ You could help me Assist the Caravan Stevedores to organize their Wagon arrangements to keep the entrances to the Clave clear for public traffic and safety.  We have not had any recent attacks on the Clave but the area around is still wild and we are still investigation some hostile creatures in the area of late.  We just want to make sure Everyone has the ability to seek refuge behind the Clave's defensive walls if necessary."

Mhari regards the new settlers noting their tales of recent study in Qi, and ponders asking as to any news they might have heard of the goings on in Ghan? Having been absent from Qi for almost 3 years now, he'd not returned when his enslavement to Ymir Yvain ~ Captain Blacksteel was ended. Qi had been the gathering point and HQ for Yvain's Airship expeditions that ultimately were doomed by her own obsession. He pondered if he even really wanted to know... it had been his own father that sold him to Captain Blacksteel.  Perhaps it was a past left in the past, The Seventh Son of the Seventh Son... had 6 brothers all wanting him dead.

In reply to Raelle Pellegrino (msg # 15):

Turning Mhari regarded the teen-like woman, but clearly teen or no she had the look of a road traveler ~ experienced in dealing with hardship.

At her mention of the Order of Truth his expression brightened, "Ah Well Miss Pellegrino, Welcome! We are grateful for any assistance the Order of Truth has arranged with your Amber Gleaners.  We have indeed been exploring the locale area and have learned or at least conjectured some disturbing mysteries of the local residents in the area.  We can discuss our recent exploration of nearby ruins later but to get you  settled in the big admin building over there can see you settled in... we got nothing fancy as yet still building here but a space for a cot can be arranged.  Also seek out Alberic he's been here longer than I ~ He'll know the best place for you to settle in."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:10, Mon 20 Dec 2021.

Starr nods to Mhari.  "Very well Mhari I will attend to it at once.
She moved off towards the caravan to speak to the caravan master to see how she might help.

The Varjellan, seeing Mhari quite occupied, wanders around almost aimlessly, trying to find someone else to provide direction.  "Excuse me, I'm Liessen.  I'm here to work with the trees.  Where should I set up my household, and more importantly, where should I start planing the groves?"  Nearly everyone they speak to either says, "I don't know," directs them to ask someone else, or merely shrugs.

Buojrez asks that the turret be moved to the East Gate where the newcomers have set up.

With an aside glance at the tiny one casing the defensive walls she says, "I will be watching you."

To the Varjellan: "First we trade, then we worry about the groves. Tomorrow, I will tell you of what I have explored."

She then heads to where the caravan guards are settling down and setting up to see if she knows any of them or if they have tales to share.

Buojrez doesn't recognize any of the guards (at least at first), but they recognize her gait and swagger and are happy to trade tales of dangers and treasures and travels.

The teenagers are minding the younger ones by a small puppet theatre, telling a tale of a wily seskii who fools a too-trusting thuman.  There are gasps and giggles and applause.  The shepherds are looking over the tools and fabrics and other wares, calculating what they can afford to barter, showing off some fleece, yarn, and cheese (the scrips are all spoken for by the clave).  Mustane, too, is looking over what might be had an showing a few samples of the lumber he's helped amass in the past few days.

There are a few vendors readying their wares for trades tomorrow, assessing the location, placing small bets one who (or what) might arrive to browse their goods.

Buojrez takes a long look at one of the guards. Not known to her, yet familiar.


She approached the man. "I am Buojrez. You have a strong resemblance to my friend Drasilt. We worked the caravans in the past."

In reply to Mhari 'Stormbolt' (msg # 16):

Raising an eyebrow at the emphasis and use of the title, Raelle responds, "Thank you, I am well acquainted with sleeping outdoors if need be."

Carrying her gear, she brings it to the admin building nonetheless, where she finds an empty spot to put it before returning to the caravan to see where she can help as well.  As she goes, she looks around, seeing how she can improve upon the community as well as for Alberic.

Janik held back as the caravan arrived and watched from a distance. He noticed people coming up to one particular person and assumed he must be Hugh up in the caravan team.

He moved slightly forward so he could hear what was being said then when the second woman had finished stepped forwards the one everyone called Mhari

"excuse me are you the person. I need to talk to to join the caravan I understand people are joining to help build a clave. My master and friend passed a while ago and I have no more obligations to hold me to one place. Thus I would like to offer my services to your venture if you will have me"

Mhari turns to regard the new arrival and smiles warmly, "No, I'm not part of the Caravan.  They are only here for maybe week or two to resupply this foundling clave and do some business. I'm Mhari, a Glaive working for the Order of Truth to establish this new Clave an apprentice to become an Aeon Priest.  All are welcome to join the Clave to make a new start here.  We are currently investigating some Ruins that seem to be inhabited by potentially hostile beings that phase in and out of holes in space... making them very hard to open dialogue with.  They've made some attacks on travelers on the road to the Clave but we as yet do not have an understanding as to their goals as yet.  There was a man from another realm or perhaps time they were seeking to capture he could phase through mater, but due to his unfamiliarity with our 'world' I lightning-traveled him back to Yenth for his protection and orientation ~ the Order of Truth is taking care of him. But the Clave itself is secure and safe ~ no attacks upon the Clave have occurred. If delving the unknown and trying to establish a new home are your goal here would be a fine place to start."

Janik looked at Mhari for a moment before replying "then perhaps I am meant to be here after all."</blie>

With that he walked towards the nearest wagon and continued walking through it before retracing his steps to stand before the man again

<blue>"as you can see I to can walk through things, among other talents I have perhaps it is fate that we meet"

To Buojrez, the guard pipes up, "Drasnit!  He's my brother.  Haven't seen him in months, not since he lost his shirt dicing with me."  He laughs in appreciation and pounds his chest.  Perhaps he is wearing the shirt in question?  "I am Belnit, by the way.  Please, join us.  You look as if you are skilled with a blade.  Luckily for Drasnit, he is better with a blade than with dice.  So we acknowledge him as a skilled fighter, you'll have no qualms about telling me a tale of one of his follies.  We could all use another laugh."

Alberic seems to be busy in the workshop, consulting with Nalla over what parts and tools they should prioritize for trade (not having bothered to look at the inventory of the caravan first), so Raelle is left to assessing the state of the clave instead.

The newcomers would note that the only housing structures so far are all within the walls.  There is a barn and smaller shed to west, adjoining a fenced-in area where some livestock are grazing.  The stream that they caravan passed over as they came from the south has some piping and other constructions connected to it so that the clave has a steady supply of clean water, although with this many people, the easily accessible liquid may be stretched quite thin.  The deep ravine to the east has a narrow ledge with a chain pounded into the rock above it as a handhold.  It is unclear how far the ledge goes.  The ravine is narrowest by the clave and widens as hit heads eastward, arcing to the south, out of sight.  The ledge descends some ways into the gap before seeming to level off about 20 feet below the forest floor.

"Well met, Belnit. Ah, Drasnit, willing to gamble and lose anything but his blade," Buojrez says with a smile.

"Once, he was involved in a dice game where the odds were slanted against him with shaved dice. He was down to his hide and his sword before he figured it out. Angry, and naked, he was a sight to see!"

Buojrez pulls up a seat and nods to the others. "Buojrez, skilled with maul and bow. I have had use for both in the area if you would like the tale."

In reply to Janik Crow (msg # 25):

Mhari watched ~ eyes wide in wonder at Janik's ... gifts.

"Astonishing! Perhaps Fate has a hand indeed in our gathering?  All my life the lightning has been mine to command... a gift my father has but my six older brothers do not ~ all of them envious of the 'gift' I possess and ALL of them seeking my death.  'The Seventh Son of the Seventh Son', is a burden my father shares, but unlike HIM.. I've chosen NOT to kill my six other brothers to possess the family fortune ~ as he did!  Father does not approve of my ... kind heart, so I felt absence best least I have to be involved in kin-slaying.  I have sought my own path.. trying to make the world a better place if I may and maybe delve a few mysteries of the world at the same time.  You will be in good company here Janik!"

Mhari offers his hand in friendship a smile upon his face.

Janik gave Mhira a sad smile after listening to his tale "perhaps fate has decided that the dispossessed need to be together and has designed that we meet.....only time will tell but i will gladly stand at your side for a while if you will have me"

"Please, do share," says Belnit.  "We've had little call for our swords lately.  Mostly bandits in the eastern part of the kingdom.  And I've heard rumors of increased piracy along the rivers, but I hardly think your little stream nearby would give you cause worry."

The caravan carts and temporary dwellings are set up.  The newer volunteers who intend to stay also have at least temporary shelters within the walls, although the Varjellan is less than pleased with the arrangement.  Muttering to themself (at times angrily), they say something to the effect of siting for a grove and begin meandering around the outskirts of clave.

The entertainments continue, food is cooked, songs are sung.  The major negotiations for lumber and supplies are expected to take place tomorrow.  Evening comes to the forest.

OOC: Anything you want to do before the next thing happens?

Buojrez tells them of DeeBee and the snake-men, making sure to point out the battle site and direction of approach. She is sure to note the abilities of the foes and point out that a solid maul strike wins the day.

"The clave could use guards, but I am sure the traders can too. When will you be back, in case my boots feel the need to wander again?"

When the day comes to its close and the caravan merchants are at least semi -settled in, Mhari will make the rounds to look after the new potential exploration team arrivals checking in on Janik Crow, Starr, and Raelle Pellegrino to make sure they have been settled into living arrangements within the Clave making sure their needs have been seen too for securing lodging and contact information for them to coordinate with the Order of Truth agents in town.

He asks them all to meet up with Alberic, Zalbane, Buojrez and himself in the morning sometime around the second hour so they can receive a formal briefing upon the events that have taken place and bring them up to speed upon the on-going investigation into the surrounding wilderness.

Then Mhari will go and inform Alberic, Zalbane and Buojrez of the morning meet and greet for their new exploration team members to help them understand the local situation.  The meeting should take no longer then an hour just to coordinate the newcomers with the clave's current exploration and investigation efforts.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:58, Wed 26 Jan 2022.

After helping the caravan, Raelle looks around for a suitable location for her tent.  The word "tent" might be a bit of a misnomer since it is large enough for her to stand and easily takes up a few meters of space in all directions.  She sets it up against one of the buildings near the wall and arranges her gear.  Raelle sets up a perch for her huntri, who soon flies in through a small opening in one of the walls, holding some unfortunate small animal.  She hangs the armored sloth on the opposite side of its perch and feeds it some leaves before gathering some climbing gear and leaving the tent.

She heads towards the ravine to explore a little bit and stretch her legs.  On her way, she sees Mhari and says, "Mr. Mhari, I would like to examine the ravine you have over there.  Is there anything I should be aware of?"

In reply to Raelle Pellegrino (msg # 33):

Mhari smiles, "Mhari will do.. we're not that formal around here. {chuckle}"

"As for the Ravine...  I personally have been more involved with exploring the Ruins about a days travel to the North East{?} of the clave, but if your interested in exploring the ravine; I'll be glad to escort you there so you can have a first hand survey?"

Mhari will heft his "Mass-Blaster Slugspitter" longarm on its sling, and point in the direction of the ravine...
This message was last edited by the player at 21:33, Fri 28 Jan 2022.

Janik spotted Mhari and Raelle heading away from the camp towards what looked like a ravine

he moved quickly to a dead tree trunk near by and stepped into it and disappeared, seconds later he reappeared from a rock formation just before the ravine and just ahead of the two explorers.

" Mind if I join you" he asked clipping a large glove like object to his left hand with a small barrel running out over his hand. He quickly pulled back a section and loaded it with darts.
Then from around his neck he pulled up a pair of goggles that looked like two multifaceted insect eyes "allows me to see in the dark" was he reply to their questioning looks

Belnit says, "we often travel a circuit, although it changes at times.  This clave is one such change, although if your lumber is as good as promised, we will likely add it to our regular route.  We've been in Yenth about every three months for the past two years.  So if you had the itch to wander around the middle of the Steadfast again, you'd have less than half a year to wait.  Even if we had several extra stops, we'd be back here or in Yenth by then."

As Buojrez continues her conversations with the guards, she can see Mhari heading toward the ravine with one of the new comers.  Another joins them, although she did not see him walk in that direction.  It is late afternoon, and the shadows in the depths will be growing deeper.

In reply to Janik Crow (msg # 35):

Mhari is somewhat startled by the sudden appearance of Janik, but smiles chuckling to himself that it was clearly destined to be not quite so interesting as being alone with the lovely young explorer woman as he'd expected ~ with company! Not that he'd been planing anything more then some 'hopefully' stimulating conversation with the fearless, clearly capable, and none too easy on the eyes young explorer woman.

More the fates laughing at him so he joined them laughing at himself as well as he replied, "Sure Janik, you can join us... for however little time we have left of the daylight. I know you have a nightvision device..."

And mid sentence he also turned his attention to include Raelle in this as well, "...but exploration after nightfall is Imprudent!  This locale is not fully explored and on a recent overnight stay in the forest my team learned there are utterly silent creatures that apparently feed on the dreams of their prey!  I've not slept well the past few night because of it, so were taking all precautions here.  We do not fully know the extents of the local predators so as soon as the light fades to nightfall we turn back ~ No Exceptions!  I'm charged with the clave's residents safety and that includes the survey teams as well, Raelle!"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:44, Sat 29 Jan 2022.

Buojrez raised a finger to Belnit. "A moment," she says.

She stands and looks in the direction of the three loose cannons and shouts, "Second best glaive and cohorts! Before you go stumbling into danger in the waning light you might want to consult with one who has been there and fought and won!"

Turning back to Belnit she says, "As you can see, no shortage of the foolhardy here."

Disturbed by Buojrez's shouting, Alberic pokes his head out of the workshop. "Sorry, danger? Trouble in the offing, eh?" He looks around a little bewildered - clearly he has been too deep in repairs and development to pay attention to what is going on, and scratches his head as he glances from the three would-be explorers and Buojrez.

Janik looked back towards camp and the shouts "second best...Mhari I think she might be talking to you" he said looking back at his companion and smiling slightly "hope she know that shouting like that is a sure way of bring out unwanted critters" again he gave a little smile

Mhari shrugged, "I don't know who she thinks she's in contest with. I'm only in a contest with Myself to do the Best I can at protecting and supporting this new clave!  I'm certainly NOT here to measure 'cock' sizes.  I have no idea what she has fought besides the snake men on our arrival cause she's not deigned to join us in our explorations of the ruins or the surrounding area to try to find the source of the attacking snake men or other potential threats."

Turning to Raelle, "Again, I'm not familiar with the ravine ..not gone there before, though I know where it is.  We're not going inside it this evening.. you wanna look at it ~ fine.  Look with your eyes not your feet!  Don't have enough daylight to go tromping around in there unprepared.  Got it?!?"

Alberic looks after the departing group, then something clicks in his mind. "Wait... are they heading to the...?"

He quickly hurries back into the workshop, throws on his duster and his pack, grabs the huge clock-hand he uses as a crutch, and sets off after Mhari and the others with his lolloping gait. He hurries along much faster than his awkward stride should make possible, repeatedly jamming his hat down on his head, and a trail of coloured smoke streaming behind him as he puffs furiously on the pipe still clamped between his teeth... first orange, then red, then turquoise.

As he catches up to them. "You're going down to the Gorge? Where we met that D'Bee fellow? Lots of interesting machinery that way. I wouldn't want to miss out!"

In reply to Alberic (msg # 42):

Again, Mhari shakes his head, "Alberic, we are not going down into the gorge, we are doing an exterior viewing of it.. perhaps gather enough intel to plan a route of exploration for tomorrow when there is sufficient light to actually explore.  We have as yet to determine the goals of the Snake men... we only found circumstantial evidence of their presence in the ruins.  For all we know the gorge is their actual exit point or location of their community.  We are not prepared for a battle with them in the fading daylight.  We can survey the area but we're not entering today.  So don't get too excited.. we're not staying longer than half a bell's time {1 bell on the hour so 30min}.  To do more than that, in This Glaive's opinion... is ill-advised."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:43, Fri 04 Feb 2022.

"Right you are!" Alberic grins. "Those Snake fellows seemed very interested in D'Bee, so I wouldn't be too surprised if they had something to do with the machinery in there that seemed to bring him here. Or at least an interest in it..."

Assuming no interruption by screams or such from the ravine, Buojrez surveys the caravan people for the intersection of height, broad shoulders, and looks to find a companion for the night.

The ravine, for those that have not seen it, begins to open up a couple hundred feet east of the eastern gate of the clave.  It is a great and widening crevice in the earth, quickly descending to a depth of 80 feet or more, and widening to perhaps 30 feet across.  The right side (southern) rises a bit.

On the left (northern) side, there is a ledge wide enough to walk on, or at least safely climb along.  If it was purpose built, all signs of construction are long gone, although there is a chain along it, anchored by spikes.  This appears a quite recent addition, to make traversing the ledge safer.  This walkway drops along the wall of the ravine to a level perhaps 15 or 20 feet below the top.

The ravine bends away gently to the right, obscuring a further survey from this vantage point.  In the twilight, the floor is obscured from view.  The space of the ravine is often intruded upon by cliff-dwelling birds(?) chirping as they flutter out for a night's feeding.

For those who have been at the clave a while, the ravine looks unchanged from your last visit.

***

Buojrez, familiar with the types of people that frequent such caravans, is able to pick out a likely partner easily enough.

Mhari, true to his word, will STRONGLY deny any notions of travel any further down the ravine ledge than 60'ft from the Clave entrance, and outright forbids descending into the ravine depths.  Taking his "Mass-Blaster Slugspitter" longarm to shoulder he constantly covers the ravine depths and ledge for anything hostile.

Alberic carefully tips his hat back, exposing the twisted left side of his face, and studies the area through the blue orb of his left eye.

OOC: Sense "Magic" - are the Numenera active in this area at this time?

Just out of interest, did we add the chain and spikes along this, or was it already there when we visited previously? I can't remember now!

Janik moved carefully to the edge of the ravine and pulled his goggles over his eyes and took a look into the gloom.
through the strange bulbous glasses the ravine opened up to him like  he was looking at it on a cloudless day

To Janik's enhanced vision, the ravine looks largely unremarkable, at least from this angle.  He can see some footprints along the bottom and places where the soil was disturbed, although not in last day or so.  The chain follows the ledge around the curve and out of view.

In reply to Mhari 'Stormbolt' (msg # 41):

"Very well," Raelle responds. Her eyes flash slightly green in the shadow, like a cat's, before continuing, "Though I am no stranger to exploring dark places. Or climbing in them."

Taking out her binoculars, she looks through them and searches as much as she can without moving from where she is.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:15, Thu 10 Feb 2022.

In reply to Raelle Pellegrino (msg # 51):

Mhari paused and looks deeply into the Raelle's eyes his expression changing to one of surprised but growing admiration, "Oh. I did not realize you were gifted with adapted vision to dimly lit locales Miss Pellegrino!  Fascinating!"

"I'm sure your skills with be in much need with any future explorations, I'm just concerned with your safety ~ tomorrow around noon at the meeting we'll bring you up to speed on the threats and mysteries we have uncovered here.  I wouldn't want you getting hurt due to lack of intel on potential threats you could have avoided had you been informed.  I think you can help us much more if your fully briefed on the local situation."

He smiles, capable, independent women being his type... but he mentally slaps himself 'Whoa, down boy... you just met her ~ let's keep things professional.  Independent, capable women is what ALWAYS gets you in trouble...!'

Raelle's observations don't yield anything more than the obvious (with the possible exception of additional detail on where the small flying creatures are nesting in the cliffs of the southern side of the ravine.)

As darkness falls, a slowly rising chorus of insects and amphibians rises to entertain the assembled humans, punctuated by the occasional calls (screams?) of some or other hunter of the night.

OOC: Time to find your bunks for the night (which you've already set up).  Any last minute preparations or plans for over night?

Darkness falls and the caravan folk fall into their normal rhythms of chatter and singing and carousing around the small campfires that dot the two rows of carts and tents.  A few glow globes are hung by the food and the musicians and story tellers.  Another illuminates a rowdy game of dice.  The clave folk, new and old, are welcomed where they choose to be.  The children of the clave are mostly enchanted and energized by the new people, although one or two seem more shy.  Getting them to bed proves difficult, but eventually successful.  There are no major fights or arguments, no attacks as the sentries patrol the outskirts and the chatters lessens and fires fall to coals.

Hours later, while all but the night watch sleeps (and perhaps even some of those), a wind rises to the east, north of the gorge.  The sound thrashes and wails, though the trees move only a little.  The small flying creatures of the forest flee through the branches in chittering terror.

Shouts of alarm rise from the guards, fearful of what new threat this wind may augur.

Raelle comes alert, having just gotten to sleep not long ago, and looks around.  It takes her a moment to realize where she was, but she remembers quickly.  She quickly gets her gear on, including her armor and climbing harness.  Her huntri squawks and looks at her curiously.  She can feel its curiosity mingle with her own.  Motioning, she opens the tent and lets it out, though indicating it should stay close.  Before she leaves her tent, she grabs her bow and quiver.

OOC: Is there a lookout tower or something tall like that?

There are raised platforms by the east and south gates, inside the clave proper.  They provide a bit of perspective.

On return to the Clave Mhari felt the day's work settle a weariness upon him, realizing it had been perhaps almost a week since he'd enjoyed a proper sleep in his own bed/cot and yawned more than once at his own desire for well-deserved rest as he ate his light evening meal eager for little more then restful sleep.  He decided to turn in to bed early than seek any 'companionship' this night more desirous of rest than recreation no matter how comely the choice of potential partners this night.

At the sound of the alarms he came too at his set tent next to the side of the oldest structure in the Clave a makeshift trading post.  He got dressed, armored, and armed... focusing his mind to send his usual mental calls to his electrovore companion, Z'Dakk, hoping he was near enough to sense his call.  He left his tent and strode purposefully toward the Mechanical Gun tower on it's track set near the center of town, settling his 'Blaster' rifle on its sling at his shoulder...

He noted Miss Pellegrino looking toward the platforms at the East and South and catching her eye nodded to her in greeting from his position at the centrally located tracked Mechanical gun tower.  A shadow passed over him and in a flurry of darkened leathery wings and wind-raised dust his large 'Z-Drake' landed beside him.  He smiled and touched Z'Dakk.. as the spark of writhing electricity cascaded between the two briefly illuminating the night with light flashes of incandescence as the two 'electro-communed' in greeting with each other.

Mhari noted the arrival of the duty scheduled patrolman at the gun tower to man it, as per procedure when the alarm was raised, and his nervousness being so close to the large Z-Drake.  Mhari briefly reassured the guardsman Z'Dakk's only being there to await his call should battle be joined at the wall defenses of the Clave.

Striding over, "Well met Miss Pellegrino... shall we check first the main east gate platform together and get some explanation for the alert...before checking the south gate platfom?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:00, Mon 21 Feb 2022.

Alberic emerges from his hut, rubbing blearily at his good eye.

"What's all the racket for?" He shouts. He scrambles after Mahri and Raelle towards the East Gate platform, and peers out into the darkness towards the source of the wind to see if he spots anything unusual.

11:45, Today: Alberic rolled 19 using 1d20.  Perception. 1 Level of Effort (3 Intellect - 3 Edge = 0 cost).
This message was last edited by the player at 11:46, Mon 21 Feb 2022.

After a moment staring out into the darkness, Alberic turns and calls back to the others: "This is was the weather we had when that D'Bee fellow arrived from the machinery down in the Gorge. Could be another arrival... Perhaps we should go for a look."

He pauses, then adds: "Of course, those snakey chaps turned up here looking for him not long after. Are they out there doing the same thing?"

In reply to Mhari 'Stormbolt' (msg # 57):

Raelle nods and lets her huntri fly off to the East Platform, hoping it can sense or see things she might not.  He still doesn't listen to her all the time and needs more training, but he is mostly reliable.  When she gets to the platform, she quickly climbs up as high as she can.

Taking out her binoculars, she looks around.

15:36, Today: Raelle Pellegrino rolled 17 using 1d20.  Perception. 2 Levels of Effort [1 normal, 1 free from Curious] (3 Intellect - 2 Edge = 1). Binoculars ease this?

Mhari follows Raelle as she reaches the Eastgate Guard Platform and ascends it to the top.  Following, he readies his 'Blaster' Rifle, and he addresses the guards he meets along the way to the Guard platform or ascending it ~ requesting they pass the word along to all on the walls or guard platforms for each guardsman to ignite a personal glowglobe.  When he reaches the top with Raelle he will stand next to her igniting his own glowglobe and ask the nearest guardsman what has caused an alarm to be raised.. besides inclement winds?

To Alberic, he replies, "Perhaps, but the wee-hours of the night is Not the time to go stumbling around in a treacherous gorge with potentially hostile dee-bees stalking it. Any investigation should wait until daylight, we'd all be just more added victims rather than any rescue party even if there was someone in need!"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:05, Wed 23 Feb 2022.

In reply to Mhari 'Stormbolt' (msg # 61):

Grimacing slightly at the sudden brightness, Raelle looks at Mhari and says, ”Please put that out, unless you want to become a target for whatever is out there.  Does no one else have the means to see in the dark without something so obvious?”

Looking at his blaster, “You have something like that I can use? A bow is good for hunting, but I have a feeling it might not be effective against what’s out there.”

Mhari shakes his head, "Sorry, that would not help us.  For the record we have discovered no evidence to even hint that there are hostiles with slug-thrower weapons capable of such targeting... and good luck getting any bow or even crossbow to hit accurately in these high winds.  We Must be able to see if creatures assail the defensive walls of the Clave ~ a necessary evil is we must then also have light to see by.  Most cannot see in the dark as you do."

Mhari hefts the 'Mass-Blaster' Slug-spitter, "This is not a weapon by construction.  It is an artifact I discovered in the ruins.. I fashioned the wooden shoulder stock and pistol-grip.  The 'artifact'  is a tube-like device that almost soundlessly accelerates any object down the length of the tube at high velocity.. its original purpose we have no idea.  But any object capable of fitting down the tube rapidly increases in mass the further away from the end of the tube it is propelled.  So a pea pod seedling hits with the impact of a stone boulder!  I'm assuming its some form of gravitic-based effect.  This here is how its activated and I've made that into a triggering assembly.  Currently, due to my lightning gifts I'm feeding it power so as to lessen the chance of it depleting.. but it is a unique 'curiosity'.. we have no other artifacts like it or actual manufactured rifle arms here."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:39, Wed 23 Feb 2022.

As the winds continue, the clave members are able to glean the source of the caravan guards' fear.  The travelers have in their possession an artifact that predicts the weather.  While it is only effective in a small area and for two days into the future, they have never known it to be wrong And yet tonight, even now, it indicates calm air, no winds.  But the winds continue to rush from the forest, sometimes laden with sounds of whining or grinding or hissing.  Leaves fly.  Dead branches break from trees and crash to the understory.  Every traveler capable of fighting is now alert and armed, marking a perimeter around the traders.  The more vulnerable are sealed, as much as they can be, inside the tents, wagons, or huddled within the walls of the clave.

The shepherds have closed their doors, covered the windows.  None of their children are out.

Raelle, your eyes perceive ... a forest wracked with strong winds.  You see no creatures, no strange light or energies or distortions, no machines or constructs.  Were it not for the anxiety of the guards, you would mark this only as odd weather and pay it no more heed.

After a little while longer, the wind subsides to stillness and the forest grows silent.  In time, the small creatures of the night begin their calls and chirps and clicks.

Alberic watches the weather prediction device with some interest. "Winds from another dimension, perhaps? I recall D'Bee could touch nothing for a while after he arrived, and would fall through walls if he pushed against them... perhaps it is the same here... Perhaps the phasing effect lasts as long as the machinery is active?"

He sighs. "The question is, did something else come through? But you are right, Mhari - my excitement is getting ahead of me. Darkness is a dangerous time to take a trip into the Gorge. Still, I worry that if something came through we may miss it completely... especially if the snake-fellows are after it."

In reply to Mhari 'Stormbolt' (msg # 63):

"That's fair," Raelle nods.  "I should probably leave the shooting things to you."

As the winds die down, she grumbles, "Well that was anticlimatic."

Looking up, she sees if she can sense antyhing - other than the normal unpredictable - from her huntri, (OOC: now and forever named Bob).

10:47, Today: Raelle Pellegrino rolled 4 using 1d20.  Sense Danger.  Eased by Bob. No Effort. (OOC: glad I didn't spend anything on that.)

Mhari watches intently at the stirring trees and foliage of the night-time forest barely visible in the distance from the sparsely illuminated defensive walls of the Clave... his brow knit in frustration.

When the winds die down and the night calm returns with the normal animal sounds his frown deepens.  He lets his 'Blaster' Rifle hang on its sling relaxing but still scowling at the forest a sour expression on his features, "...That's Damned peculiar!  We have no idea only conjecture what it imports Craftsman Alberic!  All we think we know, is that by our randomly encountered forester ~ who is STILL Missing after running off into the forest in the early dawn some days ago, are His claims that some weird creatures, utterly silent, live in the forest and at night feed on the dreams of Anyone sleeping in the forest at night with potentially Very lethal effects!  It could be pure coincidence that the same meteorological effect took place on our previous meeting with Mr. Dan Cooper and his serpentine assailants."

Shrugging in similar exasperation of the situation as Raelle, "Not a bad thing.. I'm sure your keen night-vision may yet save our lives Miss Raelle!  But if you have a desire to learn to fire high-velocity projectile shooting weaponry.. I have no issue training you to use the 'Blaster' Rifle.. the more who can use it well the better.  It may not always be convenient for me to be shooting it... shame for it to not be used if someone's life can be spared by someone else being proficient with firing the 'Blaster' Rifle, especially if they can clearly see targets/threats in the dark!!!"

"Anti-climatic..maybe.. but I'm just glad no one was hurt or lost... I'll call that a win."

Replying to Alberic again, "We just don't have enough evidence to truly know either way!  But for now.. no one was harmed or lost.  So I will suggest that tomorrow morning No One leaves the camp for the first two hours so we can do a detailed search of the surroundings to see if there have been any significant changes before Anyone goes bumbling around in the area.  It may be our only chance to find some clue as to what is going on!"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:06, Sun 27 Feb 2022.

In reply to Mhari 'Stormbolt' (msg # 67):

"That's true, I was not complaining about the lack of action.  I have lived through enough of that."

Looking at the blaster, she says, "I may have to take you up on that.  Though if we found one that was suitable for me, that would be better.  I am always curious to learn new skills."

(Edit:)"Is this the most advanced weapon here? Are there any other armaments other than the walls?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:47, Thu 03 Mar 2022.

"That makes sense!" Alberic declares. "I'll volunteer to be on that search party in the morning! Til then, I'll get some sleep - best be fresh when we set off!" Clearly excited at the prospect of further exploration - and oblivious to any security concerns that might need to be discussed - he drifts back towards his room, puffing on his pipe, and leaving a trail of jasmine-scented smoke behind him.

Mhari smiles at Raelle and nods, "Very good.  We'll kept it in mind to look into finding something similar for you to carry.  In the mean time I'll instruct you on the 'Blaster'.  I've been experimenting on trying to accelerate electrons down the barrel directly from my lighting powers.  Technically I'm told electrons have a 'mass' as well, so a pure particle stream could be VERY devastating and potentially hard to control, but "could" make it 'self-recharging' with each shot! I've been going very slowly with that, don't want to hurt myself or others unintentionally." 'Shrug'

He turns to nod at Alberic, "...YOU were at the top of my list of investigators!  Anyways your right I'll set up some reinforced patrols for the rest of the evening and turn in to bed myself. Get some rest, and thanks for coming to help!"

Turning back to Raelle, "Thanks for coming to help... get some sleep...", but his thoughts ~ {Gosh.. she sure has pretty eyes... GaH Fool ~ mind on professionalism ...please!}

"... er good night, Miss Raelle!"

Mhari bows slightly to Raelle, shoulders his rifle on its sling and turns to first report back to the Gun Tower to issue some 'enhanced' patrol orders for the small security detail with the few evening hours left and make his request to the Clave leaders to hold everyone in the Clave for the first two hours of daylight tomorrow so a search team can be made for potential new threats that the 'freak storm' might have brought before anyone ventures out.  Finally then returning to his Tent... perhaps a cold shower first...
This message was last edited by the player at 11:50, Thu 03 Mar 2022.

As the night air remains still, the sounds of the forest resume.  The humans and other sleepers relax from their anxiety.  Many return to sleep.  Some remain awake, but quiet, sitting around the embers of cook fires, peeking at stars through the canopy overhead.  The caravan guards resume their regular rotations.

Perhaps an hour later, those stationed at the clave are woken by one of the sell swords.  Quietly, he says, "There's something in that ravine.  Something moving.  Not fast, is it.  Sounds likes it's climbing, maybe?  Careful.  Besson said he heard chains, too.  And maybe a voice?  He weren't sure.  We gots a few extra blades near that end, though, just in case.  Ain't see it yet, though."  He scans what can be seen of the traders through the open gates.  "We've kept it quiet-like, so far.  Thems merchants get bitter without they's beauty sleep.  Not that it helps 'em."

OOC: While you were not all likely woken simultaneously, it was probably in fairly short order and the message was the same to each.

Mhari groggily pulls himself awake repeating getting dressed armed and armored.

His wildly unkempt azure hair and truly annoyed scowl upon his brow let all know his foul mood when he arrives at the Guard Tower for the reported intruder.

He is almost annoyed enough to just flat out shoot the intruder DEAD... so he can return to bed and not be bothered!  But he sighs and igniting his personal glow-light setting it to follow him he readies his transparent plastic Shield and draws Stormheart and calls Z'Dakk to come to him.

Mounting up ~ he will pause for anyone wanting to ride with him and flies with the glow-light at his shoulder approaching the Ravine Z'Dakk lands his wings claws clutching the rough-hewn cliff-side and his own claws clutching the ledge one firmly gripping the chain-railing as Mhari shines his glow-light on the ledge path and ravine cliff face demanding, "Who goes there? Identify yourself!"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:42, Mon 07 Mar 2022.

Alberic is not impressed at being roused, but is soon molified by the prospect of a trip out into the Gorge to see what has arrived.

Space permitting, he will mount up behind Mhari, the large Clockhand tied across his back. "Exciting, eh?" He grins as they fly. "Real adventure, this!"

He has a go at lighting up his pipe, but soon discovers that holding on and keeping his hat on his head takes both his hands.

As they approach, Alberic begins to scan the area with his robotic eye, as if checking the area.

OOC: Detect "Magic" - requires studying an object or area for one minute to determine if the Numenera are active there, even if they are not visible. Not sure if he's close enough to realistically detect anything as they fly in.

As they land, he dismounts, scanning the darkness.

09:40, Today: Alberic rolled 4 using 1d20.  Perception. 2 Levels of Effort (Cost 5 - 3 for Edge = 2).

Clearly looking the wrong way! xD
This message was last edited by the player at 09:41, Thu 10 Mar 2022.

Buojrez rises. "I was finished here anyway," she says to the man below her.

She puts on her armor and gathers her maul and bow. Grabbing a lantern from the caravan, she looks about for any of the newcomer clave members before walking towards the gorge.

The group is able to assemble near the "entrance" to the ravine at roughly the same time.  The noises noted by the guards are still audible: scratching and the clinking of chains.  As Z'dakk lands, a few stray discharges of electricity provide flashes of illumination beyond the reach of the glow globes.  There is a terrified scream that echoes in the ravine and the group can make out a human(oid?) trying to rush away from them along the ledge that leads to the cave where the odd, inaccessible chamber was.  Due to the curvature of the cleft, the person is soon out of their sight lines.

Mhari sighs, "Ok.. my bad. Yeah in hindsight.. confronting a potential newcomer to our realm like our first visitor on the back of a lightning arcing beast... might have been ill-advized."

Affectionately stroking Z-DAKK's long scaly neck he replies mentally, {No my friend the humanoid was not overwhelmed by your beautiful lightning greeting display...}

Raelle appears as though out of nowhere and shrugs off a lightweight, transparent cloak.  She looks much like she did the night before.  Did she even sleep? Does she sleep? One might ask.  An arrow-shaped shield made of strong glass is strapped to her back beneath the cloak and a thick and well-used staff. Bob is perched on her shoulder.

"So there was something down there?"

"Still is," Buojrez answered, looking down at the tiny woman. "Probably best dealt with after the traders leave tomorrow. Or would it be today?"

"I would agree.  Should I find a good vantage point to watch it? Is there some sort of communications network here?"

After a while, there is no further noise from the ravine, apart from the night fliers chittering as they swoop in and out of their nesting nooks.  A trio of guards from the caravan volunteers to guard the point where the ledge transitions from the crevasse to solid ground.  It is only a few more hours until daylight, after all.  They ask if there are any special instructions.  It is safe to assume that their first response will be violence, and they carry the tools necessary to carry this out.

Mhari will ponder this turn of events.

Nodding to the guards, "Yes, special instructions.  No Violence unless you are attacked.  The last 'visitor' through, whatever means their arrival here was enabled by, he was not a hostile.  Do not initiate violence unless you are attacked! NO ~ threat is Not enough reason for violence!  It... whatever it is, may be just as scared of you as you are of whomever it is!  If something is spotted or cornered two of you watch it the third come get one of us! Understood!?!?!"

His tone is a little testy, but firm.  He's clearly in need of finishing his much wanted rest.

With that he heads back to the Clave to finish his slumber ... hopefully uninterrupted again.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:52, Sat 26 Mar 2022.

They nod, a bit put off by Mhari's tone.  One sheaths his sword and mutters under his breath.  They keep a glowglobe near and begin watching the forest as much as the crevasse.

OOC: Anyone doing anything else before morning?

Buojrez walks over to the three volunteers and makes a reference to an old guards' story about the caravan leader who was better at ordering than keeping order.

"I can stay with you if you want," she offers.

Turning to Raelle she adds, "Newcomer, want to trade sleep for the company of these three?"

"I've had enough sleep for tonight.  Shall I climb to that ledge and keep an eye on them?"<green> She points to a ledge that seems to give a good vantage point but also keeps her in shadow.  <green>"I have no desire to escalate things, but that might happen with or without me."

There are some spots along the south rim of the ravine that will provide a decent lookout along at least some of the ledge that the person was climbing along (which is on the north side).

"I'm Buojrez," she says to the other woman. "Just be sure to alert me and the men before you attack," she continues with a wink.

With that she settles in with the three guards so that they can watch in pairs.

"I'm all for getting more sleep." Alberic nods. "Then tomorrow we take a look back in the Ravine. Assuming nothing comes out in the meantime... Still, can't be a bad sign that it was scared of us. My money's on another visitor like D'Bee... though also perhaps on more of the snake chaps, if they take an interest in those who come through. This will be a good way to find out..."

He joins Mhari in heading back to the Clave to sleep.

In reply to Buojrez (msg # 86):

Nodding, Raelle responds, "Don't worry, I am not one to make any rash decisions.  I've done that enough times in the past."

With that, she begins climbing to the ledge and soon disappears into the shadows.

OOC: Do I need to roll for that?

Raelle finds a safe perch on the southern cliff top from which to observe the ledge leading to the cave on the north side of the ravine.  Where there are occasional low sounds from that direction (murmuring, the clattering of small rocks, perhaps sobbing), there are no signs of movement along the ledge, nor any other creature movements that seem concerning.  Large predators have likely decided that a large encampment of humanoids is not the safest area to go hunting tonight.  Occasional whiffs of campfire smoke pass by to stress the point.

The night passes without further incident.  In a time that feels both too long and quite soon, the grey light of dawn begins illuminating the forests north of Yenth, and the fledgling clave within it.

Mhari awakes from the one of the longer snippets of sleep he was able to steal from his repeatedly interrupted night's rest.  He could try to force it and go back to sleep... but he's awake Now and he knows the day won't get any better or shorter if he tries to lazy it away in bed.  There are things to do today that need doing now!

So he is rapidly up freshened, dressed, armored and armed before the sun cracks the dawn.  He will snatch some brief morning food a basket of and a pitcher of hot caff and cups but not stop moving eating it on his way back to the ravine guard position.  This time without his scary reptilian aerial predator electrovore...

He will approach the guards and hands them the basket of morning food and the pitcher of Hot Caff with cups commenting, "..I'm feeling more like a human with some sleep after days of nightmarish unconsciousness rather than real sleep ~ doesn't make me any less of an asshole for last night but accept this in thanks for your evenings patience and diligence. When the sun cracks the dawn consider yourselves releaved and get some sleep.  I'll take it from here."

Letting his Blaster-Rifle hang on its sling he stalks over to Raelle's position.

"Ready to do this?", as he gestures toward the cave entrance, "...I'll take point if you prefer."

He readies his Transparent Plastic shield and starts making his way walking toward the cave entrance...
This message was last edited by the player at 14:55, Sun 03 Apr 2022.

Alberic tags along with Mhari to the site, determined to get another look at the machinery - and a first sight of whatever arrived. He waves cheerily to the guards, but sheepishly declares "Sorry, I er, didn't bring you anything."

Tact is not Alberic's string point, but he is more interested in the surroundings, and clearly champing at the bit to get going.

Buojrez rises and strings her bow. Loosely notching an arrow, she takes up the rear guard position of the group.

From Raelle's position (and any you choose to take along the south lip), there is little to note, except perhaps that the flights of the cliff-nesting creatures have become far less frequent.  There is no one on the ledge walkway to the cave, and no one visible in the cave (not that you can see into it more than a few feet).

If the group wants to move toward the cave, they will need to climb along the ledge.  This is narrow and uneven, but passable.  The chain pounded in as handholds makes the trip much safer, although would complicate efforts to wield a weapon or hold up a shield.

Mhari regards the obstacle of the thin ledge walkway and entrance to the cave and smirks.  He pulls his glow globe and activates it holding in hand...

Then his long blue hair begins to stir as if with building static electricity and his body briefly arcing with small blue incandescent flashes of lightning.

Then almost faster than the eye can follow he moves with a speed and grace that is... Superhuman and he is around the ledge almost out of sight in the mouth of the cave with his shield on arm and glowglobe illuminating the entrance... a trail of rapidly fading arcing blue lighting the only thing marking his passing.

He calls back, "Come around the ledge slowly.. its a little treacherous..."

Actions -
Fleet of Foot {Cost 1 spd} and Obstacle Running {Cost 3 spd} -2 Spd Edge = total Cost: 2 spd
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 18:45, Tue 05 Apr 2022.

Buojrez waits until all of the others have traversed the ledge. Alberic is of particular worry.

OOC, I am assuming I have no line of sight into the cave mouth should trouble erupt there.

OOC: Correct, Buojrez.  The ledge and ravine arc to the right from where you would get on the ledge and it takes a while to get to get to the cave.  Even once you have an eyeline to it, you can only see the mouth and immediately inside.  It's pretty deep cave.

Outside, those making their way along the ledge have a slow but steady traverse, with only the stray bit of bat turd creating any concern.  OOC: You can roll if you want, but it's not necessary.

Inside the cave, Mhari's first look is of ... an empty cave.  If the person is still here, they are deeper in the tunnels (or invisible?  Or phased into the walls?)

Mhari holds position until the rest of he team gets here.. he only moved to the cave entrance to guard the team's approach so they could not be ambushed while traversing the treacherous ledge.  He has no weapon drawn.. merely his shield on his arm ready to defend with.

He lets his glowglobe float at his shoulder illuminating the entrance and he awaits the arrival of the Team.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:42, Wed 06 Apr 2022.

Raelle carefully makes her way to the opening of the cave and nods to Mhari. She cranes her neck around and looks as far as she can into the cave.

"You see anything moving inside there?"

In reply to Raelle Pellegrino (msg # 98):

Mhari snatches his glowglobe out of the air and wraps it in the folds of his courtly azure cape/cloak he where almost always dimming the glowglobe significantly and casting a soft dim blue hue about the cave enough barely to see by but not bright enough to ruin 'hopefully' anyone gifted with nightvision.

Gripping the glowglobe in his hand holding the transparent plas-shield he turns to Raelle, "Not really no. Looks like its your time to 'shine'... you want point?  Don't worry something threatens you and I'll be there in a... flash."

Alberic clambers after Mhari and Raelle. "Give me a moment." He grunts, rolling up his sleeve, and staring at a small screen embedded in his left arm. "Last time we came, when the machinery was active, I got a reading. Lets check if it's still on this time, or whether it has powered down again..."

Sense "Magic" - by taking a minute to study an area, Alberic can detect whether the Numenera are active even if their influence is not obvious. I assume that this is limited to the area he can study (the mouth of the cave) in this case.

The mouth of the cave is quiet.  The wind through the forest above can be heard.  A clicking/scuffling noise can just briefly, barely be perceived, but it's unclear if it is emanating from deeper in the earth or from the ravine.

After a moment's concentration, Alberic looks up. "I'm getting nothing." He grunts. "From out here there's no sign of the machines operating. I guess we look inside, eh?"

Buojrez slowly makes her way across to the mouth of the cave.

"We should clear the cave," she says. "But there are creatures further down the ravine."

Mhari pondered the situation and regarding Buojrez, "Your more familiar with the ravine than we are Buojrez, are the creatures there more of a threat in your opinion that they should be dealt with before exploring the cave?"

Buojrez shakes her head. "Clear the cave first so that we don't get trapped between anything. As for the ravibne, it was nothing I couldn't deal with."

At this moment, a woman steps from the shadows within the cave and stands in a defensive position.  She's not terribly visible in the shadows, but she appears to be wearing highly intricate and ornamented garb of unfamiliar origin.  She's not very tall, maybe not even 5 feet in height.  She has a determined look on her face and shouts at you in an unfamiliar language.

Mhari nods to Buojrez, "Ok.. we'll clear the cave first then."

He takes unfolds his glowglobe to let it return to hovering near his shoulder and turns to take the lead into the cave when the woman steps out into the open ... and takes a defensive posture.

Mhari stops, and remembering that the previous traveler could not understand his speech tries a different tactic.

He bows to the woman, and turns slowly to show his sword at his waist and unbuckles he sword to set it on the floor, disarming himself taking a step away from the blade on the floor then Extending his hand in a placative open handed gesture.  Trying to show he has no intention of attacking her with his weapon on the floor.  Then he steps to the side and gestures toward the entrance of the cave beckoning her to exit.

He will try the previous traveler's language, "Greetings miss. We mean you no harm... please come with us.. we have food and drink."

Then repeat it again in Truth Speech of our world,"Greetings miss. We mean you no harm... please come with us.. we have food and drink."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 19:17, Sat 16 Apr 2022.

Mhari's words do no seem to register to her in either language. She takes a bold step forward, still speaking forcefully in a tongue sharp and alien.  She nods toward Mhari's sword, gesturing that he should kick it toward her.

Mhari glances to his companions, shrugs ~ "..Well language was worth a try!"

He nods & smiles to the woman and with his foot slides his sword across the floor to her...

A simple gesture as he has both his "Mass-Blaster Slugspitter" rifle and the crystal Yatagan across his back... but a gesture of trust as he has no intention of fighting this woman.

He will gesture with both hands open palms up, shrugging his shoulders, his facial expression questioning?

Then again he will step to the side beckoning her to follow to the cave Exit...
This message was last edited by the player at 16:43, Sun 17 Apr 2022.

The woman approaches the sword slowly, keeping her eyes on Mhari and the rest of the group.  When she is within reach of it, she lunges forward to scoop it up.  She backs up and holds it in a clumsy grip before her, seeming both relieved and terrified.  She speaks again, angrily, and gestures with the sword for all of you to head out of the cave.  With one hand, she points at ... the cave floor (?) and then the group, making pushing hand gestures as she ... commands (?)  Makes demands (?) and waits.

Mhari rolls his eyes and turns to his party, "Hey guys I think language is a real barrier here... We can't move the translator from the town here but I have an idea... but its weird."

Mhari then begins to disarm himself... Crystal Yatagan Sword, Slug-Spitter Mass-Blaster, Crossbow... even his Transparent PlasShield... bundling it all up he looks to Alberic, "Er..would you carry this back out of the cave?"

Looking at them all, "Your going to want to all back out of the cave... I'm gonna mentally call Z'Dakk... I know that sounds bad... but he not entering the cave just gonna perch on the entrance.  He's Telepathic and might be able to convince her were not here to hurt her, trust me...this could work."

So Mhari turns back to the woman and gestures with his hand and index finger to wait a moment.

Shooing everyone to make room he steps to the entrance of the cave and putting both hands on his head closes his eyes and concentrates...

...a Few moments go by and nothing happens.  He grimaces looking up and out the cave.  Frowns and does it again his expression intensifying... and little sparks of lightning arc here and there about his body.

A few more comical moments go buy... and he begins to blush, but soon the flapping a great leathern wings can be heard.  Z'Dakk swoops in to perch at first precariously upon the ledge of the cave but is clearly NOT interested in entering the cave.

Mhari steps over to the great Azure skinned aerial-predator Electrovore and Mhari touches his long sensuous neck and... perhaps the weirdest silent conversation/argument ensues.

Mhari points at the Z-drakes long graceful tail and then gestures toward the woman.  The eyeless Z'Drake turning its head to regard the woman then looks back at Mhari shaking its head emphatically a clear sign of 'No'.  Mhari gets a plantive expression still touching Z'Dakk's neck it cocking hits head in a clearly impatient response.  Mhari pointing again toward the woman and Z'dakk sighing in annoyance his flanks shuddering and wings rustling in a still resistant attitude.  Finally Mhari scowling and gesturing emphatically pointing a chastising finger at the large predator an Z'Dakk rolling his shoulders and waving its toothy eyeless cranium in a gesture of petulance.

Mhari stamps his foot and points at the woman annoyed forcefully!

Finally Z'Dakk took a very deep long-suffering sigh of resignation... and turned away to face outside the cave entrance and the ravine below he shifted his bulk around and crowding the party at the entrance.  Z'Dakk backed slighting into the cave extending its tail to Mhari and turned his long neck to look back over its shoulder at Mhari.

Mhari smiled in triumph and took the offered blue scaled tail in hand gently and walked toward the woman with the appendage in hand and gestured to his mouth and her mouth with a negative shake of his head then presented the tail and with his other hand touched the tail tip and gestured for her to do the same then he touched his head and pointed to her head and his head back and forth.

He will gesture to himself and the locations of all the weapons he disarmed.. trying to get her to conjecture he is not a threat and has no weapons anymore...

Z'Dakk is telepathic but it's by touch...

Those familiar with days of being around Z'Dakk though his species is telepathic mostly by touch can feel the waves of empathic utter humiliation and affront radiating from the the Z-drake at the denigration of its tail being used as a touch-telepathic translator...
This message was last edited by the player at 02:15, Wed 20 Apr 2022.

"Ah, er, yes. Of course!" Alberic approaches, offering the stranger a cheerful grin, and bowing to her and touching the brim of his hat obsequiously. He means this to be encouraging, but being Alberic it just looks rather weird.

He takes the bundle of gear, and backs towards the cave entrance, trying to find a safe way to reach the ledge while so encumbered. He eventually settles on using the huge Clock Hand to pull the bundle against his chest.

"Well this makes sense," Buojrez thinks to herself.

She shuffles down the ledge towards the ravine to make room for all parties. Then she rummages in her pouch and pulls out a blue crystal. Humming tunelessly she holds it up to her eye and peers within.

[OOC: What does the inexact future hold?]

The woman, startled when Z'dakk lands on the ledge, becomes more and more agitated (and panicked) as Mhari tries to communicate first with the beast and then with her.  She mutters to herself, and her talking slowly grows in volume and speed.  It's not clear if she is speaking to anyone or just speaking out loud in terror.  She does occasionally look at the reactions of the rest of the group, even as she takes a few steps farther back into the cave.

After Mhari makes his final invitation, tail in hand,she does speak (shout?) directly at him.  As she does so, she makes a series of gestures with her free hand, like scooping and throwing, and at the same time, dozens of pebbles from the cave floor begin to levitate up to about chest level, and are then hurled at the group.

The tiny rocks clatter off of everyone harmlessly.  The woman looks shocked and crestfallen, and throws down the sword, sobbing and wailing in frustration.

Mhari is crestfallen at her unwillingness to even try to cooperate which could end the confusion so easily.

He sighs loudly , but sits down crossing his legs in front of her speaking softly, he says words to her that she need not be afraid they are not here to hurt her... the words do not matter its his tone he is trying to communicate.  He does not reach for his sword but again offers the Z-Drake tail tip.
He is startled by the flung pebbles, and hopes its only because she is tired that the stones were not hurl harder.

Gesturing again at her mouth and his and patiently tapping the tail tip offering her to touch it.

He will pull out his canteen and pour a little water out so she can see its just water and taking a sip himself will offer it to her...

Raelle watches this interaction, hopefully unseen, with interest from the shadows of the mouth of the cave ready to fight or flee.  She has a few questions about what is going on but will save them for later.

Buojrez moves down the ledge a few steps further into the ravine. Whatever was going on in the cave would resolve itself one way or the other. Getting suckered in by a decoy while forces moved up the ravine was not to her taste.

She nocked an arrow and waited with a bored expression.

Alberic hovers at the mouth of the cave, still clutching Mhari's goods, and clearly discomforted by the sobbing and wailing. Clearly at a loss for how to deal with this, at last he puts down the bundle of items, stuffs his pipe into his  mouth and rummages in his pockets. At last, he pulls out what appears to be a small set of tubes or piping. He fiddles with them, fitting them together, occasionally glancing up. Finally satisfied with them, attaches them to his pipe and declares: "There! How about this?"

He puffs into his pipe, and a jet of blue, fruit-scented smoke issues forth from the strange tubes he has attached - and they begin to whistle a cheerful tune, which continues even after he has removed the pipe from his mouth. He offers a triumphant grin, clearly pleased with the rather childish toy he has created.

IMPRESSIVE DEVICE (Cost 3 Intellect - 3 Edge = 0) - create a device that generates an impressive audio or visual display. Lasts 1 minute, during which time "all your interactions gain an asset". I'm not clear if that applies to other people's interactions, but here's hoping!

Alberic is going for "calming" and "unthreatening" rather than particularly impressive here.

The woman looks up at the tunes and smoke and scent.  She chuckles a bit through her tears.  She speaks, although it's unclear if it's to any of you or merely to herself, as she pulls a decorative bit of cloth from some pocket within her garments and uses it clean her face and blow her nose.

She absently holds it off to her side and waits a few moments before looking at her hand and the cloth.  She visibly works to hold back more tears.  She makes a few more shaky, quiet statements.  She steels herself, stuffs the cloth back into whatever pocket it came from, and slowly begins inching her way toward the mouth of the cave, skirting as far from Mhari and the beast tail in his hand as the stone walls will let her.

Mhari just laughs at her swatting Z'Dakk on the hind to which the aerial electrovore slaps him in return playfully with one of his quadra lesser wings as he leaves the cave entrance to take flight back into the skies above like he wanted to anyways...  His parting thoughts for Mhari best left untranslated.

Mhari shrugs to his companions and picks up his sword to resheath it at his side, commenting flippantly, "...well at least she's leaving the cave!" 'snicker'

"But she is clearly not a threat to the clave at least nothing we can't handle... she does not want to communicate in any constructive fashion so let her go her own way... if she finds her way to the clave the Translator artifact may help... let's continue our search of the ravine. Unless someone else has a better idea about how to communicate with some untrusting wanderer who just wants to avoid all contact?"

Mhari will ignore the woman and make his way to Alberic to rearm and prepare to continue to explore the ravine...
This message was last edited by the player at 03:06, Fri 29 Apr 2022.

Buojrez looks at Alberic. "Are you here all week? What dish would you recommend?"

She purposefully strides into the cave, bow at the ready.

"Let's clear the cave and then decide who escorts new Dee Bee back to the clave while the rest of us do something productive."

Buojrez (and anyone who accompanies her) will find the rest of the cave empty of life.  At the deepest end, they will encounter a rough hewn doorway barred with a transparent force field.  Beyond is a fairly well lit room of bare white synth or metal.  Nothing else is visible.

Raelle emerges from the shadows and follows lithely behind Buojrez, nodding to the woman.

[Are there any obvious machines or mechanisms present next to this side of the forcefield?  Would that be something I can search for?]

The woman stares oddly at Alberic as she passes, but does not stop (unless anyone is planning to stop her).  She will make her way to the ledge and begin the walk back out of the chasm, gripping the chain and muttering to herself.

Raelle sees no mechanism or controls anywhere (visible) within the chamber beyond the force field, and certainly nothing in the cave.  Were it not for the lit room and the force field protecting it, the cave would be wholly unremarkable.

Buojrez stares into the well lit room. "I find it annoying that these random persons can appear out nowhere, as can snake men, and freezing tentacled monsters."

Turning, she continues, "That woman is clearly NOT who was causing the commotion last night, hence further into the crack seems to be the way. There are numenera, and there are freezing tentacled monsters that simply step out of the rock wall."

The woman is moving along the ledge as well as can be expected.  Her shoes seem to be made of the same delicate cloth as her ornate robes.  They are not meant for this rugged terrain or activity.  Quiet expressions of pain and discomfort accompany the clinking of the chains as she works her way toward the egress of the ravine.

Mhari looks between the exiting woman and the small Force Field Cave entrance and comments, "..This is more Artifact Numenera that defy logic or examination placed here for unknown purposes long ago.  Just as well ponder how to make another moon in the sky as ever be able to figure the how and why of its purpose and use!"

At hearing the woman's soft cried of pain at the ledge he asks Alberic, "Hey, exactly where is the translator pillar in town?"

"Wasn't this - or at least these arrivals - what the Order wanted us to investigate?" Alberic muses as Mhari points out the futility of studying the Devi e. "Course, I was a late arrival myself, so I'm not completely sure..."



"Just outside the main building. It's just across the square from the Clave's gates." Alberic gestures pointlessly in the direction of the clave with his pipe, as if this would somehow make things clearer. "I guess we try to bring her there, and see what she says? If she's anything like D'Bee, it's not like she has anywhere else to go."

Mhari nods putting to memory and recalling the layout of the Clave.  "Examine the Force Field carefully see if it surrounds the room underground as well.  Not sure if we possess anything with enough force/power to breach it, but maybe we can find a way around it? I'll be back..."

Then he grimaces, and sighs,"They don't pay me enough for all of this crap!"

Suddenly the lighting begins to arc around him as he calls upon his gifts again ~ Then almost faster then the eye can follow he is in motion...

He dashes to the woman circumnavigating the ledge holding onto the chain suddenly at her side he grabs her by the shoulders to hold her tightly... then a Bolt of lighting from the sky strikes down and they vanish as he rides the lighting with her to the location of the Translator tower in the clave, next to the main building across the square from the clave's gates.

Immediately, he releases her and takes a few steps back... from the translator artifact not sure how fast it works... or even if it will work on someone from... wherever she is from!

In a reflexive attempt to forestall another potentially adrenaline -fear boosted Telekinetic assault he raising his hand to shield his face and cries, "Stop! Calm down! We are NOT going to hurt you!!! ~ But I needed you here so the translator tower could make you understand!  There are dangerous wild beasts outside the town... I didn't want you hurt!"

Fleet of Foot (1 Spd [Edge -2] = 0) and Bolt Rider (4 Int [Edge -2] = 2 Int)
{OOC: Hoping to catch her by surprise with the suddenness of it all.  Mhari may talk all tough but he's a softy at heart. He'd feel REALLY Bad if she stumbled into something unfriendly and got hurt or killed just because it was difficult to communicate with her when such was readily available.  Hero Complex}
This message was last edited by the player at 00:06, Wed 11 May 2022.

Several people in the camps and within the walls of the compound scream as the bolt races past them.  For her part, the woman (once no longer moving), stares at Mhari.  Even as he tries to convince her of his good intent, her eyes roll back into her head and she faints.

Mhari moves quickly to catch the woman before she faints to avoid any incidental injury cradling her head as he lays her down gently, his eyes going wide in brief shock before he laughs.

He calls one of the guards nearby, "Hey ah, please have someone see to her well being but keep her close to the translating tower, she can move things with her mind at high velocity to hurt and could be pretty riled once she recovers.  Just keep her safe, see to her needs she's going to be unfamiliar with anything here... another Dee-Bee wanderer ok?  I need to get back to the rest of the scouting team in the ravine."

Mhari gave her once more look over and smiled, she was lovely to the eyes, but likely would hate him like most.  The 'Seventh Son of the Seventh Son', usually..no mater how hard he seemed to try left a trail of broken hearts and corpses in his wake.  Probably best most steer clear of him.

Leaving the clave he walked back to the cave and the others, clearly in no hurry...
This message was last edited by the player at 14:36, Mon 16 May 2022.

OOC: Please resume in this thread now that you're back from the tunnel.

<< From: Into the Narrow Darkness >>

Mhari, On return to the clave he spots the ...foreign woman from earlier... and sees her in distress.

He sighs, he should probably just pass her by and let her take the lumps of her own uncooperative stubbornness... but that nagging chivalrous nature at the core of his Honor stings him again.  Sometimes he wished he did not care so much about perfect strangers in need.  He just knows if he were lost, confused, and in need; he would hope someone would try to help him... so why would he not 'try' as well?

He looks over to see the Translator Obelisk to see if the woman is within the translation radius of the Numena-Device.

Reluctantly, he walks over to her stopping at a respectful 10'ft distance and hopes she's close enough for the translator to work He still keeps his words simple, "Do. You. Understand. My. Words. Now?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:17, Tue 30 Aug 2022.

The woman is not near the pillar, or at least not near enough.  She has actually refused to enter the walls of the clave, but rather convinced (bullied) the traders and caravan folk to provide her a chair off the the side.  She's near one of the walls, with her back to it.

Most people seem to be giving her a wide berth.  In addition to the food splattered on the walls around her, there is more, and what appear to be spills of water or wine drying in the dust by her feet.

To Mhari, she scowls and begins haranguing him, although he cannot understand her words.  She points at the surrounding forest, at her clothes, at your clothes, at the caravan around you, at the remains of an attempted meal.  Eventually, her near shrieking seems to end and she pointedly stares at Mhari.

Mhari has just about lost his patience for this woman's Bull-headed stubborness and rolls his eyes in exasperation! He looks at all the food and drink she has been VERY unappreciative of and shakes his head in disgust regarding her with a scolding disappointed expression,.  EVEN if the food and Drink were not palatable to her she could have been at least gracious and mature enough NOT to throw a tantrum throwing the offered food a drink like some petulant misbehaving CHILD!

He will try ~ One. Last. Time.

He points to his lips, then he steps just close enough that she can tell when he points at her lips he is specifically points at her lips and not her in general.  Then he will point at the translation tower emphatically.  Then keep his eyes on her he will stride purposely over to the tower calling out to keep her attention as he reaches the tower he will slap it open palmed and point to his lips again while looking at her.  Then Gesture for her to come closer!

If she refuses he tosses his hands up in disgust and IGNORES HER from then on!
This message was last edited by the player at 23:54, Mon 05 Sept 2022.

Alberic is entirely focussed on the portal they have just discovered. Puffing furiously on his pipe - a stream of purple smoke billowing behind him - he gives the strange lady a cheery wave and a tip of his hat as he passes, striding lopsidedly into the clave.

Mhari is trying to be persuasive and charming...

Action -
Convince 'Foreign Woman to be Cooperative' Diff 5 {TN15}
Positive and Pleasant Social Interaction - Trained {Trying to get the Foreign Woman to get within Range of the Translator Tower} [-1Diff] Diff 4 {TN12}
Extra Effort/2: Intellect cost: 3 [-2 Diff] Diff 2 {TN6}

21:52, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 3 using 1d20.  Positive and Pleasant Social Interaction - Trained w/Extra Effort 2 [Diff 5/ 2 {Tn6}]. – 3 'Fail'

Went for broke - Worthless! I tried 'Shrug'

The woman curses(?) in frustration and sits back down on her chair, staring daggers at the dirt in front of her.

One of the seskiis of the shepherd family trots by and she recoils in fear until it moves on.  As it goes, she speaks to it sternly and makes shooing motions.  A little cloud of dust and dry leaves rises, briefly chasing the oblivious animal before settling again to the forest floor.

Mhari will ask one of the townsfolk how close does one need to get to the translator tower for it to actually begin translating?

Then he makes a decision... an irreverent one.

He yells at the woman ~ "HEY!!!", to get her attention and slaps the translation tower with his open palm.  Then points to his lips!

And then he strides over to her his hair slightly rising from the static build up of his rising anger.  His eyes burning with emotion and he jaw set in determination.

When he reaches her he bodily picks her up.. aware she will fight back and wary of her Telekintic attacks he only needs to heft her weight... then he will invoke his lightning - Fleet of Foot and zip her over next to the translation tower and drop her!

Then he will step back and castigate her ~ "See here you Annoying, Bullheaded, Stubborn, UNGRATEFUL BITCH! No one here is trying to or going to HURT YOU! We're Trying to HELP but you continue to be uncoorperative and CHILDISH! This tower translates languages which is what we've been trying to get you to use!"

He points up into the sky at the soaring Z'Dakk far above, "Z'Dakk can speak to minds and if you touch him he could translate your thoughts so we could understand each other, but his direct telepathy is on touch only!  But again you were unwilling to be cooperative!"


"NO, We do not know how you got here. NO. We do not know how to send you back ~ THAT is what this village is for to investigate the cave that keep bringing people here from ...elsewhere!"

He points to the path leading back to the cave, "If you don't want our hospitality or company you can go BACK into the damned cave and ROT but you will more likely be eaten by the beasts that lair there!"

"The food and drink the village offered may not be palatable to you but your ungracious TANTRUMS have the Rest of the village of the mind to let you to STARVE if you keep being a pain in the ASS!"

"But I don't let people suffer if I can do something about it but YOU have exhausted my patience!!!"

{She may attack Mhari.. he will defend himself to avoid getting stabbed but he WILL take her to the translation tower!}
This message was last edited by the player at 16:08, Wed 07 Sept 2022.

"Well....that was a little condescending and a quite a bit of sexist," Buojrez says to no one in particular as she passes by. She has decided to seek out the healer, feeling the need for an herbal remedy.

"And yet, not at all surprising."

Mhari turns his body arcing with electrical sparks his temper flaring, "Oh that's Rich coming from YOU Boujrez! You never lifted a finger to even TRY to help this lost woman, so don't play that Sophists Feminist Bullshit card on me ~ like you suddenly 'care'! You Don't give a DAMN about Anyone but YOURSELF.. So kindly ~ FUCK OFF!"

The arcing lightning around him is palpable the air smelling strongly of ozone...

{OOC: To note.. I'm not angry here just role-playing Mhari's growing impatience and his temper.. sometimes it gets the best of him. lols!}
This message was last edited by the player at 02:51, Thu 08 Sept 2022.

Alberic remains blithely unaware of Mhari's growing rage, as he makes his way into his workshop and begins composing a message to the Aeon Priests back in Yenth:

Discovered new portal in Gorge. Strongly resembles the one in Yenth. Possibly leads to New Yenth? Could be source of mysterious visitors? Currently inactive. Any advice on how to open the portal and whether we should much appreciated. Will await your views before attempting anything further with it.

He makes his way back out and attaches it to one of the bugs to send to Yenth. He gives Mhari a cheery wave on the way past, completely oblivious to the latter's building rage. "Any progress?"

In reply to Alberic (msg # 142):

Mhari arcing lightning notes Alberic... his cheery disposition... and takes a deep breath muttering, 'A kind word, turns away wrath'... visibly his tries to gain control of his power... the living lightning... shaking his head.

Sparking his anger so close to use of his power has always had similar effect upon him emotionally... the 'bottled lightning "Wants" to be free'... Mhari realizes this... and has fought it all his life.  It is a constant struggle.

He focuses on calming himself... loosing his temper is something he always tries to avoid it gives the lightning excuse to lash out and hurt indiscriminately. He remembers ~ 'Alberic is a friend he is Not the cause of his anger... there is no need to be angry... calm down.'

The arcing electricity lessens and the sparks become less violent and he releases the deep breath he was holding ... and he forces a smile he is not as yet feeling replying, "...I'm uncertain 'Friend' Alberic... I'm not sure the Tower can even translate to her our language."

"The matter is frustrating.  SHE is frustrating... I want her to be safe but lack of the ability to communicate has been quite a barrier!  I know there are dangers in this area that she will be completely unfamiliar with likely...as well as threats Even WE as natives don't understand... like the Dream Thiefs!  I could abandon her to her own fate but my Honor rejects that... and has Forced me to do something TWICE that violates my personal ethics! But no one is hurt ~ yet; maybe our intentions can be made clear by the Translation Tower?"

To which Mhari regards the woman searching for some understanding in her demeanor?

By the time he turns his attention to the foreign woman speaking to Alberic has indeed calmed his sudden burst of anger and he is only sparking slightly his blue hair settling as the static charge is slowly fading...

The woman was extremely displeased by Mhari's rushing of her to the translation tower, judging by her expression and the red in her cheeks.  Oddly, the more he ranted the calmer she became.  She said nothing, even as there was a pause soon filled by Buojrez and Alberic and Mhari's attempts at self-soothing.

When he finally turned back to her, she seemed to be almost smiling.  It made her sharp slap to his face all the more jarring.  She spoke in an imperious tone, her words mostly translated by the pillar.

"You will treat me with respect, you ignorant peasant.  I am the emperor's [high consort] and will be offered the appropriate [obeisance] and obedience.  Now, provide me with a proper throne in a proper palace and bring my son to me.  Immediately.  I am a fair master, but I will tolerate no disrespect."

OOC:  If you are within 50' of the pillar, you can hear and understand her.  I'm pretty sure it has a functional radius of Short range.

Mhari turns to regard her with a look of relief and remarks, "Finally!!"

He politely steps away to give her more personal space her slap completely ignored, and bows respectfully, "Greeting's Milady, I am Mhari 'Stormbolt', Seventh Son of the Seventh Son, Glaive and Bearer of the Divine Lightning, Nobleman of the Grand City of Ghan - The City of Bridges.  I am no peasant ~ AND Yet that ALL Means absolutely nothing to you or ANYONE ELSE here!  Be reasonable, you are clearly NOT anywhere you recognize correct?  None of us recognize you or the language you are speaking!  The only reason we can communicate is this ancient strange artifact tower I have been trying to get you near so we can open a dialogue.  You are Not the first to arrive here in like manner unable to understand anyone and nothing recognized by you as familiar.  You are Not in your homeworld or even perhaps your Time anymore. All that you know is not here!

This is the 9th Era of the World Terra-Earth.  Our civilization here has risen to interstellar dominance and fallen to a Dark Age of ignorance over 8 epochs of history.  That is potentially Millions of years ~ but no one knows for certain! We have alien, extra-dimensional, temporal, and possibly even divine influences that have reshaped our world and have left fragments of wars, technology, magic and biological artifacts that we have no idea how they work or the dangers they represent.  The fall of the last 8 epochs is not recorded in anyway we have discovered ~ we are very slowly rising out of the rubble of whatever caused the last era's end this is the 9th World.  We are trying to reclaim our world and delve its now MANY mysteries!"

"The point being.. no mater Who you were or where you came from is of NO SIGNIFICANCE to ANYONE Here!  We will try to help you find your way home if we can.. or find your family.. but the prospects are Not good!  The Sooner you accept this and come down to the reality that You May NEVER return home Even if we help to our best ability... the easier adapting, to the definite threats this world offers to you, for survival you will be!"

"I'm sorry, but THAT IS your NEW REALITY!"

He grimaces, "I apologize for treating you roughly... twice!  It is against my personal ethics to lay hands upon a woman without her express permission ~ for that I am Deeply sorry.  But I cannot stress how dangerous of a predicament you are in... I did not want your life lost simply because You are lost. There are threats in our local wilderness environment Even WE do not fully understand...which is likely why you have suddenly appeared here.  We are here to investigate the sudden arrivals of foreigners from other Worlds and Times that periodically show up here."

He gives her a sad smile, "What is your name milady?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:25, Mon 12 Sept 2022.

"You speak of absurdities and impossibilities, peasant.  You may address me as Your Ladysh-"  She cuts herself off mid-sentence and looks around a moment.  "Address me as Your Highness.  Now, fetch my son.  And find someone else to serve me.  I have no desire to spend any more time in your [smelly?] company than necessary.  I need a competent woman to be my lady-in-waiting.  She will direct me to fitting accommodations and provide decent food."

The woman takes a longer scan of the buildings and walls.  She even glances at Z'dakk with seeming implacability.  "Dragons are not unknown to my people, but why one should deign to [bless?] this pathetic outpost, I shall never understand.  Perhaps it is pity.  I'm sure the court historians will be interested to hear of its wings, though.  That is unusual.  I will have to educate them when I am returned from these outer [provinces]."

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 146):

Mhari does not get angry, the opposite actually, his expression turning to one of pity.

"I see... so denial it is.  I'm sorry for the loss of your Son Milady... I doubt you will ever see him again.  Continue denying the reality around you if you must for your own sanity... but no one here will fetch and carry for you ~ though I will continue to bring you food at meal times.  Eventually, you will realize this is your new home until you cooperate to help US try to find out where you actually are from, maybe then you can be polite enough to answer the simple question of your name? Do try to stay within 50'ft of this tower or no one will understand your language. I am sorry."

With that Mhari turns and goes to get cleaned up for afternoon meals and rest.

He will take counsel with Alberic, "So how long do you think it will take to get an answer from the Aeon Priests in Yenth?"

And he will ask Raelle Pellegrino if she would have dinner with him to tell him of her travels and exploration expeditions.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:12, Sun 18 Sept 2022.

"Six hours at the very least. Maybe eight." Alberic replies. "It depends how quickly they compose their response. Maybe we should send her to Yenth and let them worry about her?"

In reply to Alberic (msg # 148):

Mhari glances the woman's direction and turns back to Alberic, "...I don't think her 'worshipfulness' would survive any caravan company ~ they'd surely try to kill her for 'peace of mind' and to stop her constant nagging before they got to Yenth!  I could probably get her there in two maybe three Lightning Riding 'Jumps".. but I don't think she'll let me take her anywhere anymore."

"And something occurred to me ~ she recognized Z'Dakk called him 'Dragon'. Many people refer to the Angulan Knight's mounts back in Ghan as 'dragons'.  Z'Dakk is a different bred of Xi Drake... being all blue, slightly smaller and with his two-extra demi-wings as opposed to more common Xi Drakes which are all universally cloud white with only two wings and larger.  She 'may' not be from another dimension... she could just be from some unknown kingdom out in the Beyond!"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:43, Mon 19 Sept 2022.

With a bemused look on her face Buojrez approached the woman and gave a slight bow. "Buojrez," she said with a wink. "I have a ... medical condition to attend to, but I will return later. In the meantime I advise you to ignore the peasant and try to get comfortable."

With that she made her way to the healer for help with that uncomfortable itching she was experiencing.

The woman looks at Boujrez incredulously and ... perhaps a little anxiously?  Whatever emotions break through her haughty mask are quickly quashed.  She merely sneers.

Soon, she is left alone near the center of the walled portion of the clave.  She can be seen turning, startled each time as people's conversations briefly become intelligible as they wander through the range of the translation pylon.

She looks around more slowly, trying to take in the buildings, the architecture, the trees, the birds and bugs and sounds of the forest creatures hidden beyond her sight.  She goggles in rapt fascination as a man with mechanical legs passes near the gates.  She recoils in horror from the Varjellan, moving away from them even when they were within the translation field and trying reach out politely to the newcomer.  Eventually, they grew frustrated with the woman's silence and left to pursue other tasks.

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 151):

Mhari gets cleaned up in his quarters hoping to have dinner with Raelle to hear of her many exploration expeditions... maybe to hear of strange places he's yet to see.

He will not miss how the woman is clearly begining to realize she is nowhere she has any familiarity with. It would likely be easy for some to let the frustrating woman suffer... but Mhari.. is not most people.  He cares...

So... knowing he will likely only get sneered at and potentially slapped again, he will gather the camping gear to fahsion a light lean-to and a more comfortable chair for her to sit in the shade near the translator pylon.

He will also give her a blanket saying, "...the evenings coming, and it can get kind of chilly at night."

He will trepiditiously add, "...I.. know you can tell this place is strange and unlike any place you are familiar with. Will you not tell me your name at least? I'd like to hear about your home... maybe if we know a little about where you come from we may be able to find out where that is and possibly find a way to send you home?"

Mhari is trying to be persuasive and charming...

Action -
Convince 'Foreign Woman to be Cooperative' Diff 5 {TN15}
Positive and Pleasant Social Interaction - Trained {Trying to get the Foreign Woman to get within Range of the Translator Tower} [-1Diff] Diff 4 {TN12}
Extra Effort/2: Intellect cost: 3 [-2 Diff] Diff 2 {TN6+}

05:47, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 19 using 1d20.  Positive and Pleasant Social Interaction - Trained w/extra Effort 2 [Diff 5/ 2 {Tn6+}]. – 19

{OOC: I'm assuming here a second attempt will be harder but we're about to rest for the evening and get some of our pool back so I might as well try again? Hopefully RP-wise situation has changed with her having spent a little time to think about what she is observimg to change her attitude a little? 'Shrug'}

[BANG!!!]
This message was last edited by the player at 10:13, Fri 30 Sept 2022.

The woman eyes the proffered blanket, nods her head in thanks, and pulls it around her shoulders, though the chill of night has not yet set in.

"My parents called me-" and the best you can make out is "Urr-dani".  Even with the translation pylon can't help much with a name.  "For many years now, I have been addressed as 'Your Ladyship'.  I was the high consort of the emperor of-" again the pylon stutters as you make out "Zahn Gu-oh".  It is not a name at all familiar to you.

Urr-dani continues.  "My son and I were-"  She cuts herself off here, perhaps considering her words.  There is anxiety creeping into her features as the imperiousness is slowly drained from her voice.  "We were in the summer [palace].  The emperor was tending to [matters] in the south.  I remember lights in the sky that did not seem a storm.  I woke from terrible dreams in a room of white.  I was alone."  She looks at Mhari for perhaps the longest time yet (apart from when she was screaming at him).  "What has happened to my son?  He was to rule one day, and I would stand at his side."

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 153):

Mhari's eyes soften his expression pained and full of empathy for the~ for Urr-Dani's plight...

"I.. am sorry Your Ladyship Urr-Dani.  I have traveled much and have never heard of a kingdom called Zahn Gu-oh, but please don't despair.. there is much of our world that remains unexplored and unknown.  If you can be brought here reason stands you can be sent home eventually.  I'm sorry I have little more comfort than that to give... but we have learned scholars delving into this mystery and we will all try to help you go home if we can.  The sad fact is.. we just do not know how this is happening or why, you are not the first to be snatched away from their time and place!  Your son, I can tell is very precious to you... I'm certain.. he looks for you as well!"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:08, Fri 07 Oct 2022.

She quirks her head at Mhari's words.  "What do you mean by "snatched from my time"?

She sniffs a passing breeze and her stomach growls involuntarily.  "That [stew] seems to be sufficiently prepared for my palate.  I believe I will allow you to provide a gift of hospitality to [my person], now."  The imperiousness is beginning to creep back into her voice.  The stirring air is bringing the aromas of caravan cooking into the clearing within the clave walls.  "You may explain yourself further while I dine."

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 155):

Mhari blinks... then a slight smile dawns on his lips, Thinking ~ {That was the most subtle ~ pickup line to invite me to a dinner date I have EVER heard!}

Mhari bows, and is a good boy only replying, "I would be honored ~ Your Ladyship Urr-Dani!"

Of course... as usual, a pretty face is Mhari's undoing as he completely forgot he asked Raelle Pellegrino to dinner in the heat of the moment...

He will lead the Lady to the meal gathering .. and will set up a table and pair of chairs within the 'Translator Field' for them to enjoy a dinner together.  He will collect bowls of stew and hopefully some freshly baked bread and a bottle of fruity spirits.

Over dinner her will tell her of the strange case of Mr. Dan Copper the man from out of time and how Mhari eventually learned some familiarity with his language and took him to Yenth to consult with the scholars there.  How Mr. Copper suddenly appeared here pursued by mysterious serpentine creatures that could vanish into 'holes in space' and referring to the 'White Room' Urr-Dani spoke of, insisted he was from the planet Earth, which all the scholars agreed this is Earth.  Mr. Copper's recollection of the world of his knowledge was completely unknown to any historian, but when he in random questioning about the nature of his world claimed there were 9 planets in his Earth system when all scholar's know there are only 7... an insightful astronomer commented that there was a ancient legend that once there was another planet closer to the sun that was overwhelmed by the Sun's age and growth.  That in combination with Mr. Copper's wonder at why the sun was no longer the bright Yellow he was familiar with ..along with other things he said lead the scholar's to realize he was from a distance epoch of past Earth's history... when the Sun was a smaller bright golden hue and not the orange-red of today's era, and there were more planets in the Solar system.

Mhari will point out Zalabane, and tell of how she was recently abducted by the same lizard-like creatures and taken in some fashion to a 'white Room'... just like Urr-Dani's tale!

He will conjecture, "It seems some non-human beings have some connection to the appearances and perhaps knowingly or unknowingly are manipulating whatever device or artifact that is snatching people here at random.  We have discovered tracks leading us to believe that can somehow enter some pocket realm attached to our reality and lair there. We are trying to discover a means of entry.. and have called scholars familiar with such realms and dimensional places beyond the visible world to help us locate and enter possibly.  I... do not know if your culture is familiar with such concepts but believe me They are Quite Real here in the 9th World!"

"I would very much like to learn the rudimentary basics of your language from your world ~ if you would agree to teach me, Your Ladyship Urr-Dani!"

He pauses a little shy about his next question, "Y... you don't... speak much of your Emperor. I take it yours was a Union of State not of Love? How did you come to be Empress Consort?"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:01, Thu 13 Oct 2022.

Urr-Dani accepts the food and the seat, but then becomes more cold to Mhari, especially after he sits down.  There is some internal struggle present on her face as he tells his tales, but she does not interrupt.  In fact, she doesn't speak at all.  She merely eats in a very dainty and careful fashion (after figuring out the utensils) and spends at least as much time looking at the business of the clave as she does at Mhari.  Her gaze is often drawn to the various women around the area, although her reasons for this are unclear.  Her face becomes a more-schooled mask the longer the meal drags on.

When he finally remains silent in anticipation of an answer, Urr-dani merely says, "It was my honor to bear the future emperor, for the greater glory of our [realm]."  Her response has the tone of one much-practiced and oft delivered.  She remains quiet.

Mhari Stops.  He stands and bows.

"Forgive me Your Ladyship, I seem to have given offense which was not my intention ~ I only sought to fulfill your request I explain myself.  Clearly, you have grown weary of my presence... perhaps the company of the womenfolk is more to your liking.  Good Night Lady Urr-Dani."

With that he turns and leaves he does not wait for an answer ...none is expected.  He's certain he's wasted enough time with the Ex-Empress to be.

Mhari will return to his quarters to turn in for the evening to be ready for the next days needs.

Urr-dani watches Mhari leave.  Her face betrays anxiety and more than once there is a half-hearted gesture of reaching toward him, although she stops herself each time, trying to regain her composure.  In his absence, she remains seated where she is, eyes darting from person to person.  She says nothing, and what remains of her food grows cold in the bowl she still holds in her hand.

Even as many in the caravans are beginning to retire for the night, she sits, an out of place figure in the oblique lights that cross the middle of the clave compound.

In the morning, when Mhari wakes and steps out of his cabin, he finds Urr-dani on the ground by his door, curled in a dirty blanket with leaves stuck to it.  When she notices him, she stands and bows formally.  She then gestures to the translation pylon and motions him to follow as she heads that direction.

Mhari looks at first shocked and then ... hurt or maybe more like grieved. He will first go back inside and retrieve a clean blanket to hand to her and take the dirty one from her tossing it back in his cabin to have cleaned later.  Then he will nod and follow her to the Translation tower.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:18, Mon 07 Nov 2022.

There is a message canister at the hive by morning.  It reads, "Does new portal relate to appearing strangers?  Repair if possible, but do not enter.  We will send some information to help.  Gather materials."

Urr-dani bows briefly and shallowly to Mhari, but bows nonetheless.  "Since before I was the consort of the emperor, I have dined with no man who was not a [severed one(?)]."  She pauses and tries to formulate her sentences carefully.

"I do not know where I am.  I do not know how to return to my home.  I do not believe that the stories you told last night were true.  I consider them tales to amuse and distract me.  That was the kind act of a host.  But I cannot assert that I ... know more of this place than you."

She stares at the forest canopy, at breaks showing blue skies.  "The moon here seems smaller.  The sun seems larger.  People seem mostly the same, but some are quite ... strange."  She eyes the Varjellan as they speak to a trader with a cybernetic arm.

Turning back to Mhari, she says, "You were brusque and rude and presumptuous with my person.  You were also the kindest of any who spoke to me, and you asked for nothing in return."  Again, she bows briefly.  "Thank you."

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 163):

Mhari listens respectfully, this being the most the Lady has said to him at once Ever.  Emotions battle across his expression but none of them anger... mostly regret and embarrassment.

When she is done speaking, firstly Mhari bows imitating her manner... but intentionally deeper then her bow by far.

"I Am sorry for my breach of decorum of dining in your culture. I believe I know the term you are referring to is Eunuch in our language, I'm unfamiliar of such a practice is still done but I would not be surprised. I am no Eunuch."

"I Am sorry in my ignorance I did not ask your socializing taboos.  First, You are married, have declared yourself wife to another man ~ My Honor would NEVER allow me to attempt breach the sanctity of that vow to make any attempt upon your emotions or person. Second you are alone, lost, and fearful of this strange new world you find yourself in ~ My Honor demands that to even attempt such seduction would be ignoble and taking advantage of a woman in distress... I will Never do that.  I ask your forbearance with the language barrier that has not made this clear."

"Out of respect for your husband the Emperor, when I bring you meals from now on.. I shall not also eat in your presence.  This politeness I can afford you."

"I know my tales seem the stuff of fantasy, but I do not lie. My honor finds speaking falsehood beneath my dignity.  What I told you IS the strange and deadly truth of our reality that all those here face everyday.  I understand that is a lot to take in it will take time."

Mhari nods, "That I understand!  When I took Mr Copper to Parth to have him speak with our sages and scholars of learning I asked the same thing ~ If Mr. Cooper claims to be from Earth how could his sun be smaller than ours when the sun never changes it is always the same in all the years of my life's observance?  It was explained to me that the sun is a star like all the others in the sky and that the sun ages and as it ages it grows larger, but the amount of time it takes for it age to visibly show is ages and ages and ages of vast amounts of time to do so.  In fact I was told our sun is so immensely old that it should have grown to a size to have swallowed our world ages ago ~ but for the fact that some past society of our world knew science beyond our wildest dreams and artificially stopped the sun's expansion with their science!  The idea boggles my mind, how would one control the aging of a star??? I was incredulous but the sages insisted that our very world and Moon have also been reshaped by such science to be as it is even now even though we as a culture have long forgotten how such marvels were achieved! It IS a known fact that there are many beings that now walk the earth who are immortal and do not age from the effects of lost sciences or technology... why not a star as well? But I do understand your wonder at the sights and tales I told.  The were not to entertain, they were as true as I could recall from all I have experienced."

Mhari's expression turns deeply shameful and contrite and he bows again, "I am sorry for my brusque, rude and presumptuousness with your person, I was deeply fearful for your safety. You resisted all attempts to communicate so I could not explain how terribly Dangerous the location we were exploring was.  My 'dragon' can speak to your mind outside of language. He could have translated our understanding with each other but his abilities only work on touch.  And he was quite affronted at my request to use his tail tip in such fashion... it was only a measure of our friendship he even agreed to make the attempt.  When you met us we were ALL armed and armored.. the threat was VERY real of deadly creatures stalking that area.  The others wanted to just ignore or abandon you to your fate with how uncooperative you seemed.  But I knew you were just scared and alone and did not know if we could be trusted... I tried to show that by giving you my blade but I feared if we left you alone we would return to find your corpse, another  victim of the dangerous beasts found in the ravine.  I HAD to get you to safety... to preserve your life Even if you would be furious with me later!"

"Again, I am sorry, my honor does not allow me to touch a woman against her will... but my Honor also does not allow me to let the innocent die needlessly."

Mhari's voice grows somber, "...I ...I killed a woman once and not a day passes that I do not bitterly and deeply regret that deed..."
He lowers his voice so only Urr-Dani can hear his words, "I've made a personal vow... to never harm a woman as long as I draw breath. It is a shame I shall bear until I die... none know of this vow ~ I trust this will stay between us."

He does not meet her eyes as painful memories flash through his mind... and he sighs in regrets unspoken but finishes, "I have dedicated my life to protecting life if at all possible.  It was not an easy choice to make.  I am sorry my honor alone motivated me to do what I did to save your life and protect your safety."
This message was last edited by the player at 11:15, Wed 16 Nov 2022.

It is at this point that Alberic hobbles over, whistling cheerfully and carrying the letter from the message canister. A stream of peach coloured smoke streams from his pipe as he approaches.

"Morning, folks!" He declares, apparently oblivious to the seriousness of the conversation. He tips his hat politely to the mysterious lady (OOC: I don't think Alberic has heard her name yet?). He waves the message from the cannistes towards Mhari. "Word from Yenth! We're to try and repair that portal. They're sending instructions. Looks like we'll be heading back into the Gorge!"

And with that, he heads off to find Zalbane, Nalla and Buojrez to tell them the good news (at least, good news from Alberic's perspective) - and begin rounding up materials.

He also takes the liberty of sending a reply to Yenth, as follows:

"Fairly confident that portal is linked to strangers - have yet to see direct evidence, but strong Numenera activity in that area before both recent arrivals. Will attempt repairs as soon as you send instructions."

Urr-dani nods to Mhari and listens.  Her expressions are unreadable at times.  "You speak of much I do not understand.  If this [village] is indicative of ... the place I find myself, then my education in the palaces has been ... inadequate.  I understand the whims of royalty, the process of power, the strategies of ambition.  I am unfamiliar with your creatures-  She cuts herself off as Alberic interrupts them.  She has no response to his words besides a shocked expression.

After he leaves, she continues, "I am unfamiliar with your armoring practices, surely.  And your livestock, too, are strange.  One of the children is leading a yol to be milked.  Odd mounts and pack animals are seen beyond the gates as the caravan prepares to depart.  "They seem vaguely like tales I have heard of travels to the west of my kingdom, but nothing I have seen depicted or in person."

"I must begin to learn your way of speaking.  I do not understand what magic this post contains, but I think it unlikely that you shall let me carry it away, even if I could."

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 166):

Mhari listens accepting her slow but inevitable realization that she is not in lands familiar with her but is pleased finally some progress in what he would like from her is achieved and changes the subject to that.

He nods, "Yes, we should make every effort to help you to understand our local language, but in exchange.. I would like as much equal instruction in Your native language as well!"

Urr-dani nods.  "I will teach what I can, for speaking.  I had the finest elocution tutors in the empire.  I was never taught to read and write, though.  They said I would never need it."


Late in the day, a messenger bug arrives notifying Alberic that some information will be arriving within a week.  Transcription requires time.



OOC: Thanks for your patience.  Life's be a lot, lately.  I hope you are all well.

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 168):

Mhari grimaces slightly but nods,"... well I will NOT further the conceit to decide for you what YOU do or don't need to know; as usually those who spout such filth only seek to keep people ignorant and under Their control! If you have an interest, I will instruct you in reading and writing our language... for such is the key to expanding one's knowledge and understanding by reading books of the world around and allowing one the ability to voice and communicate their own thoughts immortalized in writing. As far I have experienced ~ learning is NEVER useless or Not Needed! It is only tyrants and fanatical demagogues who are unbenefited and threatened by an educated and literate people!"


OOC: No biggie fella! End of year holiday time is rough on gaming schedules!
This message was last edited by the player at 15:34, Fri 09 Dec 2022.

Urr-dani is agreeable to Mhari's proposed exchange of education.

"I think perhaps I am in a land of dragons, unknown in the history of my empire.  I will learn what I can, although I would prefer to return home, if possible.  I would bring greater wisdom to the empire, if it is possible.  This will ... please the emporer."  There is an odd hesitation in her voice, but she explains no further.

"Did I hear the one in the strange armor speak of portal?  Might this be the passage back to my home?"

Mhari smiles, "Worry not... I'm completely unconcerned if whatever you learn of our land and language might inspire your 'Emperor' to make designs on conquest of our lands.  Believe me ~ many have tried they have all been destroyed.. not necessarily by our mighty nations but simply by the unpredictability of the weirdness of the dangers that stalk all the lands with mysteries and phenomenon barely understood but Frighteningly perilous to the unfamiliar!  I serve the Order of Truth who only seek to understand and catalogue all these mysteries and phenomenon that wander our lands and uncover our lost world history. We care not who calls himself Lord, King, Emperor or even God.  We have seen them all and they too pass in time. Politics is not what concerns us.. plenty of lords and nobles fighting over the ruins of our world to go around.. one more will make little difference in the long run."

Pointing at Alberic, "haha.. that is not armor Alberic is wearing its his body.  There is a horrific fantastic peril that roams our lands ... we call it the Iron Wind.  It is some left over from a bygone past Era that changes at random the terrain and the life therein at a whim when it blows across the realms.  It is pure chaos Few are those exposed to it that survive... Alberic was... 'lucky' when he was caught in its grip... he lived and was not mortally maimed by its touch.  The Iron Wind has wiped out entire communities and reshaped whole acres into nightmarish hellscapes of vibrant color and poisonous environs. No one can ever know its location or coming save strangely moving Red and Orange clouds near the ground moving by no wind save those the Iron Wind creates!"

He nods, "Yes Alberic did speak of a portal ~ which once we understand it might be able to send you home ~ but there are no guarantees."

Mhari smiles again, "Let's begin your and My instruction in Languages, shall we?"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:24, Tue 20 Dec 2022.

Realising that he is the subject of conversation, Alberic wanders over. "The Iron Wind, eh?" He pushes his hat back to  reveal the mangled side of his face, a mass of scar tissue, with the odd electrode poking out, as if someone had stirred them into his flesh. His left eye an orb of seemingly sightless blue crystal. He also rather proudly rolls up his sleeve to reveal his withered left arm, a mass of buttons, screens, capacitors and diodes poking out from its otherwise skeletal form. "Yes, I had quite the run in with the Iron Wind. A fascinating experience. Only surivor, I'm afraid. It did for everyone else in my party. 'Alberic the Half Consumed' they call me these days." He gives a laugh, as if this were the height of wit.

When no one else joins in he, catches Mhari's eye, and rather huirriedly gives a cough and adds: "Yes. Er, the portal. We'll take a look, see if we can get it working, then maybe see if it will get you home. Er, you're not from New Yenth are you?"

Seeing that this is not going to be a scintillating conversation on the technical ins and outs of the Iron Wind or the portal after all, Alberic at last drifts off to focus on more technical work, and leaves Mhari and Urr-danni in peace.

Urr-dani seems startled and confused by Mhari's report and takes an anxious step back from Alberic, although she does meet his gaze without flinching.  In response to his question, she only shakes her head.  Once the Wright has again hobbled off, Urr-dani speaks again to Mhari.

"You speak of strange places and magical changes to the very ground you walk on.  Your set of beliefs seems ... disorderly and inefficient.  Perhaps the instability of your lands has contributed to the misconceptions you labor under.  I think the gods have brought me to you so that the wisdom of order may be carried to you on my lips."  She seems satisfied that this is an acceptable "destiny".

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 173):

Mhari smiles, "You must come from a pretty nice realm then cause our lands are haunted by horrors and wonders ~ technological, dimensional, divine and just flat out Unknown that can maim and distort or kill uncontrolled by the hand of man.  Bygone RELICS of ages past that once intellects greater than we have now ~ human, alien, extra-dimensional perhaps even divine created for unknown purposes, but with the progress of time and circumstance were abandoned, forgotten, or just flat out lost in the annals of time and age ~ litter our lands. Many such relics are Perilous to the unsuspecting."

"And we who now try to live in this world must eek out our own understanding to survive.  You may not believe me... but THIS IS our harsh and unpredictable reality!  I will do ALL I can to protect and guide you through some measure of acclimation here... but know ~ this realm is dangerous to any unwilling to view it with an open mind.  Many things here are not as innocuous as they may seem!"
This message was last edited by the player at 01:47, Sat 24 Dec 2022.

Urr-dani takes in what Mhari has said and nods at times.  "The [gods] have touched my land as well, though perhaps in fewer ways than you have known.  We may know the same beings by different names.  The records of my people go back many hundreds of years, and such wisdom was known to the court of the emperor.  I will keep my mind open to the learning of your people, but some of what you say ..."

She purses her lips and narrows her eyes, not so much at Mhari, but at the ideas she is wrestling with.  "You speak of events that make so no sense to me.  I hope that learning your language will help me to understand the events you describe, even if I conclude that your interpretations are incorrect."  Urr-dani seems satisfied with her social parrying.

Mhari smiles, "That is a Fair and Honest point of view and all that I am asking for ~ Your Ladyship Urr-Dani."

"I'm sure there is indeed MUCH we both can learn from each other in dialogue.  My Order of Truth, will be pleased to learn of your homeland's wonders and people!"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:46, Fri 30 Dec 2022.

OOC: We shall fast forward a week or so ...

The trade caravan is long since gone, satisfied that they had made good deals and the trip was worth it.  Even the hoof prints of their animals have been washed away by a recent, welcome rain.  The nearby creek, the one that feeds water to the nascent clave, is running higher and stronger, though not so swift as to pose a danger at the crossing, at least to those who are cautious.

Mhari has continued his lessons with Urr-dani.  By the pylon, she speaks of her homeland.  What she describes is a place unfamiliar to annals of the Steadfast, though it may exist elsewhere in the Ninth World.  Her land, though, sounds primitive, with virtually no technology to aid them.  Yet it sounds a much safer place, too, with no jiraskars or other massive predators stalking the humans.  None of the creatures she has direct experience with are familiar to Mhari or anyone else in the clave. Oddly, she speaks of spirits and gods that sound quite like manifestations of datasphere.

Beyond the perimeter of the translation field, she works to learn Truth while imparting her language to those who would learn.  She seems to be picking up the Truth well, but her tongue is ... much more difficult for Mhari to grasp, especially since she can provide no written version to refer to.  Urr-dani does make a few crude (?) figures that she remembers from her time in the palace.  None are familiar and their value in learning the language is dubious at best.  In her spare time, she has been practicing with her telekinetic abilities, which she refused to describe as anything but "magic".  She has come to accept this as some sort of blessing from her gods, though to what purpose remains a mystery.

Alberic has time to putter and tinker in the workshop, reviewing their stocks of parts and tools.  Buojrez, Raelle, and the others assist him in minor maintenance and building tasks, and helping the few newcomers settle in.  The Varjellan botanist needs help focusing their attention on getting their cabin set up and organized, as they are often distracted by the flora of the vicinity.  At least the miners, the brothers, are willing to help with this.  They've also done a bit of work to create a safer path to the bottom of the gorge, ladder steps and pipes anchored into the stone for handholds.  They've done a bit of preliminary testing of the stone to see how easy it will yield and what it might be used for.

Nine days after the caravan departed, a smaller train of wagons from Yenth arrives.  The drivers are merely delivering supplies, but a few new recruits sent by Prelate Mez have come to stay. They are bearing the (sadly incomplete and sometimes contradictory) information available on the portal to New Yenth in town, as well as a crate of iotum intended to help repair the portal that the team has found in the tunnel at the end of the gorge.

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 177):

Mhari will approach Urr-Dani's language by associating the written part with letters and phonetics of Truth to 'write' her words as they would be pronounces and spelled in Truth {like taking Japanese and spelling it in English rather than the Japanese pictographic letters}.  It will be slow going but that is how he will approach learning her words and conjugation of Urr-Dani's language.

Mhari WILL ask to practice his power with Urr-Dani when she practices with her Telekinesis... simple small uses of discrete lightning power. Big destructive uses of the Holy Lighting are easy.. but controlled small precise use is something even the 'The Seventh Son of the Seventh Son' needs practice with as well...!  Mhari also shares Urr-Dani's belief that his powers are also something of a Divine Gift.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:31, Tue 03 Jan 2023.

Disembarking from the Yenth caaravan Rob looks around at the new clave, "Well, Loreth, what do you make of this place?"
This message was last edited by the player at 09:19, Fri 06 Jan 2023.

He looks about the small clave taking in what sights there were.  Noticing a few people wandering about the streets as he unloads his bag from the caravan before replying to Rob, "it does appear to be functioning well enough given the information provided on when it was established.  Hopefully our services are beneficial."

Considering the other potential directions they could have gone both.  Such was the give and take, but he was not one to deny there was always some unforeseen lost opportunities along with the ones that will be gained.

Alberic makes a beeline for the caravan as soon as it arrives, heading across the Clave far faster than his uneven gait should allow. His eyes positively light up at the sight of more Iotum, and he rapidly begins supervising its unloading.

Seeing some new faces among the caravan's members, he raises his hat to Loreth and Rob. This is intended as a friendly gesture, but has the unfortunate effect of unveiling the ravaged side of Alberic's face, which is a mess of scar tissue and some protruding wires, his left eye a lump of crystal. "Welcome, welcome!" He offers his right hand, cheerfully. "I don't think I've seen you on this run before. New to the Clave? Did they, er, send you with any information about the portal?"

He seems to have no concept that anyone might not know what he was talking about, as if this 'portal' was the most obvious topic of conversation.

[OOC: Alberic doesn't have great social skills, I'm afraid, but he's an outgoing and cheery fellow!

In other news, he has used the time to create a Temperamental Summoning Alarm Module using his Always Tinkering ability (rolled 88 on the random Cypher list).]

"Well, what a nice greeting! Thanks. I'm Rob. He's Loreth," replies Roberta with a dip of her head. "No, not been here before, and, again, not so much. I think the portal is something that we're expected o investigate some time or other."

"Pleasure to meet you.  Quite sure our contracts have us staying for some time to assist with things here so you'll be seeing us around."

He showed no sign of being taken aback by the sight of the man's mangled face as he reached into one of the duster's pockets and pulled out the pamphlet, "honestly other than the pay sounding good and what they provided us in this here pamphlet there isn't any news we were sent with."

Seeing Alberic talking to the newcomers from the Yenth caravan, Mhari makes his way over...

A youthful young warrior approaches he bears several weapons openly though none are drawn or in hands... he does not walk with the swagger of a young touch his hand never resting on the pommel of his blades his steps and gait sure with the demeanor of a seasoned Glaive.  He is armored in medium chain hauberk armor but his clothing beneath is richly made indicating an origin of some wealth not to mention the ornate bejeweled Azure Steel Rapier at his side!  He moves as if the armor were not even there so light his step.  He is tall at least 6'ft with strange softly blue tinged hair in a long 5'ft length locke at his back.  His eyebrows and eyelashes share the same hue of hair.  His expression is open and friendly, his cheerful smile touching his ice blue eyes.

"Greetings Travelers welcome to 'Gateton' Clave... at least, that's what I've decided to call it with all the weirdness and portals opening and closing about! I am Mhari of Ghan, sometimes called 'Stormbolt' of Ghan an... acolyte of the Order of Truth and the Aeon Clergy.  I see you've meet my dear associate Alberic, do you have lodging assigned to you yet or are you just passing through?  We have been hoping to receive some intel-instructions potentially new recruits from Prelate Mez in Yenth, do you know of any such messengers?"

Not sure if anyone is familiar with Ghan but it is a coastal city of shipping merchant princes, no 'true' nobility of title, but rich traders and merchants who specialize in sea commerce with large ships and sea-going vessels.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:03, Tue 10 Jan 2023.

"Hello Mhari. I'm Rob. He's Loreth," replies Robertaagain with a dip of her head. "No lodgings assigned as yet, so far as I know anyway. And, no, not planning to 'just pass through'. Intel-instructions? Well, if that's us, perhaps it's encoded somehow."

Alberic offers a lop-sided grin. "I am indeed Alberic. Some call me Alberic the Half-Consumed - little run in with the Iron Wind." He lifts his left sleeve, to reveal an arm that is mostly metal, with diodes and wires protruding - but also, rather unpleasantly, still has patches of skin and what look like exposed tendons stitching them together. "I guess I got lucky, only half-consumed, eh?" He laughs, seeming to find it far funnier than it actually is, not least to Mhari who has now heard this quip half a dozen times.

"Anyway, I'm one of the local Wrights, looking after the infrastructure here." He adds, having calmed his laughter. "Tell you what - let's get this Iotum offloaded, and then we can bring you up to speed. There's an exciting new portal we've discovered down in the gorge, and it might be the source of various new arrivals. Can't wait to see if we can get it working..."

"Oh my! How aweful. Does it hurt?" asks Rob eyeing the proffered arm and wrinkling her nose. She makes a polite "Ha!" at the hat-wielding Wright's joke and then listens.

"Up to speed would be appreciated. And the portal sounds super-interesting; it't why we're here, really. But hearing about the various new arrivals would be good!"

"Nice to meet you as well, Mhari.  Guess that depends on the type of new arrivals," he chimes in behind Rob, "portals and new arrivals are not always a good thing to mix together."

"Luckily I have not had a run in with the Wind.  Knowing myself in my earlier years I am certain I would have probably died," Loreth chuckles as he sets his gear out of the way before going over to the cart to start with the unloading process.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:51, Wed 11 Jan 2023.

The wagons contain materials for constructing two more cabins, ones that could house 4 people each if they were living dormitory style.  Mustane, the resident carpenter, takes over the unloading duties of the lumber and other materials, barking orders at the flustered Varjellan botanist and his own kids.  He describes the plans as "adaptable", and will meet with the clave leadership later in the afternoon to discuss siting and other details.

Alberic finds nine different pieces of iotum, all carefully stored.  The information provided on the gate is more about functionality and controls than repairs, although there are a few schematics of internal mechanisms with descriptions of what they do while the portal is activated.  Prelate Mez has added a notation that the Order has declined to disassemble the portal to New Yenth while it is still functioning, so there are significant gaps in the knowledge of how it would be repaired.  She's hoping that the efforts of the clave can shed new light on this through their own work.

Alberic carefully supervises the offloading of the Iotum, and inspects the plans with great interest, puffing away at his pipe, sending out clouds of lilac scented smoke. At last, he is satisfied, and rounds up the others to discuss matters in the communal area.

He fixes cups of tea for everyone, and then gets down to business. "As I understand it - and to be honest, I ended here through an unconventional route involving an accidental trip from Jargolamis and a pocket dimension, so I've just ended up mucking in - this whole Clave is intended to investigate a spate of appearances that have taken place in this area." He pauses dramatically as if this were some great reveal, puffs out a cloud of green, lime-scented smoke then goes on. "In the time we've been here, we've had three unexplained arrivals. The first was a gentleman called "D'Bee", who appeared down in the gorge. He was then pursued by a group of snake people, who seemed determined to capture him. We've moved him on to Yenth for the Order to look into. Our final arrival was Ur-Danni, who also appeard down in the gorge and is still here at the moment. Down in the gorge we found a portal similar to the one in Yenth, but not apparently functional."

He glances around. "With our new instructions and Iotum, I propose that we make another venture into the Gorge, and have a look at repairing the portal we found."

"What are your thought on what lays beyond?" asks Rob.

"Seems like a reasonable plan of action.  Maybe we can sort out what is happening down there and at least make the Order more inclined to continue my contract.  I doubt they requested my assistance based on my handsome looks considering I am not apart of it myself," a look of amusement as he continued "that said, do we have any sort of defenses or weapons we can setup a more secure perimeter around there to make sure if something unexpected and unfriendly arrives we are prepared?"

He drinks down the tea while discussing things further, "just as a bit of an aside I have a feeling I am likely going to be supplementing the provided Iotum or they are planning to slow those shipments down so if we find anything worth salvaging I can assist on that end.
 You know how those government types are with little to no warning about important changes such as that."

Mhari smiles greeting warmly both 'Rob' {who he bows politely to} and Loreth.  "Welcome both of you... we could use all the help we can muster."

He follows Alberic and accepts the tea and listens as Alberic explains the current situation and past experiences.

Waiting until he is done he adds, "The man who appeared and was being chased by the snake people his name was Dan Cooper, and as he explained himself we determined he was from some previous era of Earth's existence a distant past no one remembers.  I spent time with him and learned his English language spoken and written.  I am currently trying to do the same with Urr-Dani ~ learn her native language kind of difficult cause she is not literate in her native tongue.  She claims to be Empress Consort of some unknown kingdom I nor anyone else present has ever heard of. I am uncertain if she is from the past or possible some alternate reality."

"The Snakemen that pursued Mr. Dan Cooper were not seemingly interested in killing as they were capturing. But both Dan Cooper and her Ladyship Urr-Dani both described arriving in a 'white room' that they fled from... though I'm uncertain about Urr-Dani's testimony she is... very guarded about what she will describe or detail even about her home.  We have found a 'doorway' we cannot pass as there 'seems' to be some form of invisible barrier restricting any entry.  But we also have found an ancient doorway that the runes upon its frame seem to be control similar to the New Yenth gateway to the alternate dimension in Yenth."

"These places are in a series of caves in the ravine/gorge but the room with the force field barrier is in a nearby place of ruins where we tracked the snakemmen... and seem to have been inhabited by unknown people.  What is the connection the tracks I found seem to lead to a point in the ruins in place and abruptly cease... mid-track as though the quarry entered a sudden whole in space leaving abruptly ceasing tracks.  It is my conjecture that these snake men may inhabit some form of extradimensional abode we cannot see but they can exit and enter."

"The doorway in the ravine/gorge may be unrelated... we just don't know.  but there have been no more appearance of the snakemen since the appearance of Mr Dan Cooper."

Addressing Loreth, "Sadly no.  This was not supposed to be 'contested' land so there are only a few glaive here with only their personal weapons.. Buojrez, a mercenary and I sent by the Order in Yenth... we ARE the Clave's Defense!"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:43, Mon 16 Jan 2023.

"New Yenth. Perhaps." Alberic speculates. "But given that none of our arrivals seem to have heard of it, it's either a very different part, or somewhere else completely. Of course, we couldn't rule out the possibility of their being several gates in the complex, leading to different places."




"A mechanised turret. That's about it. We could certainly do with better defences. We've only been attacked the once since we set up here, but even so... once we start poking around with those portals I expect more trouble." Alberic nods appreciatively at Loreth's offer of salvage. "The more Iotum, the better, I'd say. I'm good at assembling, but getting it out of the old machines is not my forte. If we could recover some from the machines in the gorge, it would be a huge boon."



Alberic's pipe nearly drops from his pipe. "By the Truth! You're right! I'd never thought of that! Do you think they were the hostiles that spider fellow warned us of in the ruins? If they're extra dimensional that might explain their interest in the visitors. Do you think they are a cause of the arrivals - or a symptom? I mean, if there were other portals in the area... maybe they are behind one of them?"

This has clearly piqued his interest, and he muses, thoughtfully, furiously puffing on his pipe to produce a cloud of white smoke that tastes of sugar. He is mentally trying to fit the various pieces together, but there are too many blanks...

Urr-dani approaches the conversation at a distance and tries to listen, although she can only understand perhaps one word in twenty, as the party is not holding their discussions within easy reach of the translation pylon.

The caravan workers do their best to unload their various cargos, including some foodstuffs and building materials not easily prepared from the forest.  Mustane is already collecting lumber for future works, after the storage sheds were nearly picked clean by the trade caravan merchants.

"So the itinery's build some quarters, get food, explore a ravine and some caves? That sound about right?" asks Rob.

She then adds, "Who's that?" pointing with her head at Urr-dani.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:37, Tue 24 Jan 2023.

In reply to Roberta Shadowprancer (msg # 196):

Mhari notes Urr-Dani approach an listen with some frustration...

Replying to Roberta, "Ah... come with me and I shall explain."

Mhari leads everyone outside to the plaza to within range of the translation tower so Urr-Dani can understand out of politeness.

He continues, "..This is her Ladyship Urr-Dani.  She is the latest 'visitor' snatched to our space/time ~ like Dan Cooper but they are Not from the same place!  I'm not actually convinced its the portal we found that we conjecture leads to New Yenth that is causing people to be brought here at all! The portal to New Yenth is a single location... but the people being brought here are from vastly different places and even perhaps times!"

"Urr-Dani does not speak the language of New Yenth and has no knowledge of our Yenth or believe in other dimensional realms.  She is ... shy and As yet has been rather coy on the details of her world!  I Still cannot get her to tell me the name of her homeland!  She is evasive with statements like it doe snot matter here or its of no importance ~ even when I try to explain if we want to find her way back home we kinda need to know a bit about it if we are to locate it IF its in our world at all!"

He chuckles lightly, "...but she is making an effort to learn our 'Truth' tongues as I am trying to learn her language... perhaps in time she will trust me enough to reveal more details about her home nation."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:26, Tue 24 Jan 2023.

"Thanks, Mhari," answers Rob. "I get that with Urr-Dani. Does she expect to be treated like royalty? That would be a problem for me. We're short enough on people-power hear without having to do bowing and scraping as well. Politeness is no problem, obviously.

"Maybe we should get on and build the sleeping quarters before they're actually needed?" She breaks off to smile and nod to Urr-Dani.

"Oh, yes." Alberic looks a little deflated."Sleeping quarters would make sense. Then maybe have a look at that new portal, eh? If we have time?"

"Good call, though I am sure you have spent much time in less cozy places to sleep as I have," he chimed in to Rob's comment, "just let us know what is needed to get that done."

His hand resting on the handle of his whip with fingers lightly tapping against it.  He was on board with talk of the portal to getting to it, but sometimes the more practical thing has to come first.

Urr-dani scowls at Mhari.  Her words are translated by the pylon, so she is understandable to all within range, but even the impressive technology it employs has difficulties with some words.  "I have told you on many occasions that the name of my land and my language is [Hen], lord Mhari.  You keep asking if I am from ... a place where [poultry] are found?  I do not understand this, if it is a joke.  I was [queen] consort to the emperor of the ..." at this point the pylon gives up completely for a moment, as a susurrating slur that might have an "e" sound at the end escapes Urr-dani's lips. "...[royal family]," she continues.

There is a brief look on her face, her eyes just slightly wider.  "Was before I was ... brought to this strange land."  She turns to face the newcomers and makes a slight bow in their direction.  "Are you travelers of the dark ways, too?  I have no memory of how I reached the bright room in the cave by this tiny village ... in the depths of this strange forest.  Certainly the mushrooms here are far larger than any we had known at the palace."  Loreth and Rob get the distinct impression that Urr-dani is inspecting them and assessing them, though there is little change in her expression or posture.

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 201):

Mhari chuckles and his tone is chiding, "Oh ho... No you have not your Ladyship! THIS is the Very first time you have EVER mentioned the name of your homeland or the name of your language! I have been taking VERY careful notes of any detail you have let slip of your land of Origin!  And please stop calling my 'Lord'.. I am lord of nothing and no one.  We don't have nobility in my homeland of Ghan and like it just fine that way!"

He get a baffled look on his face, "...a place of poultry are found?  'Kingdom' is what I've been asking.. does that sound like a different word in your language...?"

Then he looks at the clearly frustrated Translation tower at her stream of what he can only assume are cultural slurrs... maybe profanity?

To which he laughs in mock affront at the usually Very Prim and proper Ladyship swearing like a Ghan Sailor Merchantman, "Such profane language!! Even the Translator tower is perplexed!  Someday I'll hope I'll know your language well enough to know what those 'spicy' words mean!"

It is clear he is teasing her at HER expense and finding the whole thing terribly amusing.

Answering Roberta,"I have informed Urr-Dani that we don't have a Noble class in these lands and no one is going to fetch and carry for her... though that 'seems' to be a task relegated to me... of late {chuckle}! But I call her Ladyship out of politeness to her previous status. I can do so little to make her comfortable here its a cheap price to please her a little and make her stay a little more to her liking."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:33, Thu 26 Jan 2023.

Rob nods to Mhari, "Thanks. Please check that what I say sounds right to her." She turns to Urr-dani, "In this land we do not usually use titles. In your land, of couse, I would. No offence is intended nor should any slight be inferred. Please, call me: 'Rob'. What would you wish me to call you?"

Looking at Alberic, Rob says, "That makes sense. let's start to get that organised then: tents then the wall and ditch extension.."

"I am called Urr-dani," she answers, at least, that's the best you can make out from her accent, and she seems to answer to it.  She takes note of the efforts to set up the tents and indicates a desire for her own, though she's outside the range of the translation pylon.  Up until now, she's been sleeping on a mat in a corner of the meeting hall.  There is enough material to create this, although it isn't clear it's a step up in accommodations.  Soon, everyone has sufficient sleeping quarters, and Mustane is plotting with the miners the best way to construct more permanent housing, along with palisade walls to protect it.

Rob pitches in and does her best to improve the infrastructure of their camp.

Alberic works cheerfully in setting up the tents, clearly at home when making and assembling things. The work done, he leaves Mustane to figure out the details of the new area and his talk turns again to the new portal. "That will keep us going for now... perhaps we should think about our next step. What say you, Mhari? Should we venture outside this day, or wait til morning?"

He glances up at the sun, to see how much daylight remains to them.

Mustane appreciates Rob's input into the planning of the wall expansion.  The new area will triple the size of the clave that is protected and is accounting for the likely need for future expansions.  Gates will open south, toward Yenth, and west, toward the barn and corrals.  However, it will take at least a week to dig the necessary foundation trenches, cut the trees, and make other efforts to construct the palisade.  Mustane and the brothers will be busy, and that's before the homes within the new walls are even started.

After the planning discussions are complete, over a meal, there are still about six hours of daylight left.  That's more than sufficient time to reach the cave on the ledge (where Urr-dani arrived) or delve deeper into the chasm to better assess the route to the non-functioning (?) portal (?).

"So, which do we want to explore today? The cave on the ledge? Or probe the chasm or the other portal?" calls out Rob, keen to be doing something, regardless of exactly waht.

"I think the other portal is our top priority." Alberic enthuses, clearly relishing the prospect of doing anything that gets him closer to studying it in more detail. "We might not get there today, but securing the path would make our lives a lot easier..."

"So are we all ok with trying to secure that route?" prompts Rob

"Anything to make things easier in the long run is fine in my book.  Daylight is preferrable so depart in the morning?"

"There's about six hours of daylight left. Why would we waste it?" asks Rob. "If you want to stay here then fine, but I'm off to have a look to see what there is to see. Anyone coming along?"

Mhari nods, "Nope no time like the present.  I'm with Alberic on the matter.. let's get a good look at that portal as we have instructions fresh in mind!  The sooner we make the way more secure the route to get there.. the sooner we can find out if it actually IS the cause of all these hapless travelers ~ hopefully before more are snatched here.. or worse.. the Wrong Kind of traveler is a let lose as a New Menace to deal with!!!"
This message was last edited by the player at 06:16, Thu 16 Feb 2023.

"Let's get some some and maybesome water and then let's be on our way," proposes Rob.

Unless anyone stops her, she does exactly that and heads out in the direction indicated.

Alberic hurriedly gathers up his things, and heads off after Rob. As the group walks he muses enthusiastically to them: "You know, I was looking back through some of the plans I have for new devices, and several could really come in handy. I've got one for a repair unit - it might be able to do something with the portal? And another for an Infiltrator - it's a little flying device that can map areas we haven't been to yet. If we've got the parts, I could have a go at making them when we get back..."

The newcomers follow along with the previous leaders of the clave.  They pass between the jutting spires of rock by the head of the crevasse and down along the ledge.  It makes a slow ramp down below the edge of the forest above, eventually leveling out about fifteen feet below the north edge , twenty-five feet below the south edge, opposite.  The chain anchored along the walkway provides a steady handhold, as bits of rubble still slide out from underfoot at times.

Where the gorge widens enough to freely admit a human at the bottom, they head down, although the path onward toward the nearer cave is noted.  The chain handrail continues that way, as well.  Below, the party moves down a makeshift ladder of bars anchored into the rock face.  Small flying creatures chitter and swoop above.  Many niches and other protected crannies were visible before they descended.

The grotto floor is soft with decaying leaves and branches.  And the occasional corpse.  No efforts have been made to do any further excavations down here since retrieving the odd crystals from the hands of the dead that were easily spotted.  Father along, the crevasse opens wider, eventually reaching about thirty feet across.  The ledge at the mouth of the cave, twenty feet above, is noted as it is passed.

In the distance, the walls of the gorge are seen to close in and eventually come together above.  Darkness is beyond.

Rob looks around and then at her companions to see if they have anything to say. Otherwise she moves forwards, content with her own company.

Mhari pauses to light a torch and mount it in the shield sconce in his plastic shield drawing Stormheart in hand as he proceeds inside taking point if allowed...

"Just a moment... I'll check to see if anything is active..." Alberic pauses for a moment, and checks a small screen embedded in the twisted flesh of his left arm.

[Sense "Magic" - detect whether the Numenera are active nearby].

As they walked he was taking in mental notes of any notable landmarks or points of interest to get the lay of the land.  As they approached the area of the cavern and seeing the dead bodies about a hand mindlessly went to rest on the whip, "looks quite inviting."


He wasn't overly concerned as he waited for Alberic to complete what he was doing given the general area should be secure enough, but just in the off chance something wasn't he would be ready.

Alberic senses nothing nearby active.  There may be pieces in the floor of the crevasse that no longer function.  No kind of large-scale excavation has been done here.

The entrance to the tunnel is equally unremarkable, although the air inside seems colder than Alberic and Mhari remember.

With her eyes adjusted to the dark Rob looks ahead to see what perhaps the others cannot. If nothing obviously requires attention she methodically scans back and forther in case there are anything she might be able to salvage (Numenara-wise).

======
OOC: 18:03, Today: Roberta Shadowprancer rolled 7 using 1d20.  Perception (Specialised); Eyes Adjusted.
so I think that's a result of 13 and takes illumination as if in bright light
This message was last edited by the player at 17:05, Wed 29 Mar 2023.

"I don't remember it being this cold last time we were down here." Alberic notes, as Rob scans the darkness. "What's changed? Time of day? Something else?"
This message was last edited by the player at 07:25, Thu 30 Mar 2023.

Rob's keen eye has picked out a bit of dirt which is actually a crust on a metal object beneath.  Chipping away, the salvage operation takes a couple minutes, but she's eventually able to liberate a cypher, a couple parts, and a few shins.

It is not immediately clear (at least to Alberic) why the temperature is so different.  Did Buojrez mention something about that earlier?

"That's dinner tomorrow paid for," mutter Rob to herself. She turns the ptrts over, obviously unsure just now what they're from. She tucks the bits away and continues, jogging along to catch up with the others.

Alberic stops suddenly as if a thought has occured to him.

"You remember, er, when Buojrez warned us about spores on the way back... she mentioned fighting a monster..." He muses, largely to Mhari, as the only other member from that particular expedition. "And, ah, didn't she describe it as a 'freezing tentacle monster'? Er, did she mention whether she had killed it or just driven it off...?"
This message was last edited by the player at 06:56, Tue 04 Apr 2023.

In reply to Alberic (msg # 226):

Mhari pondered Alberic recollections...

"I'm not sure... Buojrez did not speak to me much and seemed to have some personal grudge against me... she did not share info with me."

Rob shrugs, not really recalling much, if anything, about monstrousities around the area.

"Hmm." Alberic thinks, then remove his pipe, carefully stashing it in a pocket, where a small column of blue smoke continues to vent for several seconds, before finally stopping. "I say we should be ready for a confrontation. I suspect we are not the only people - and I use the term loosely - who are interested in the portal."

He presses some of the buttons on his left arm, and several of the more exposed sections of circuitry on his electromechanical body shift behind armoured plates, and several sections of his scarred skin fold over unpleasantly to reveal metal ribbing. Alberic winces, but at last nods, and grasps his large clock hand staff between both hands. "To the portal, then."


OOC: Quick Armouring: +2 Armour for 1 hour. Costs 4 Intellect (With 3 Edge = 1 Intellect cost), requires 2 Io, but they are not consumed.

Farther down the passage, the stone hallway curves gently, obscuring the last of the direct light from outside.  The path becomes darker and grows colder as the team progresses deeper.  The way is only about 5 or 6 feet across.

OOC: Please make a roll for a task to notice things.  Difficulty 4

Alberic is clearly on edge with the prospect of frosty tentacle monsters. He glances this way and that, his left eye - the blue orb - pulsing with light. He has rolled back the sleeve of his coat so he can keep several blinking LEDS embedded in his left arm in view while he holds his staff ready. There is a faint smell of warm solder.

07:45, Today: Alberic rolled 7 using 1d20.  Notice Roll, 2 Levels of Effort (5 Intellect - 3 Edge = 2 Intellect).

Glad I put those two Intellect points in!

Rob looks around, seeing into the darkness as if it were daylight.

OOC: 12:11, Today: Roberta Shadowprancer rolled 4 using 1d20.  Perception (Specialised); Eyes Adjusted.

Mhari will again take point his glowglobe mounted on the inside of his Transparent Plastic shield, Stormheart gripped in his left hand the keen edge of the gleaming azure steel rapier catching the light and scattering blue distortions of light about the tunnel as the party proceeds warily down the tunnel of the cavern system.

The glaive is alert looking for anything that could potentially be a threat...

08:05, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 7 using 1d20.  Perception - 2Lvls Extra Effort [5 Int, Edge '-2'; Cost 3 Int]. – 7
This message was last edited by the player at 12:09, Thu 20 Apr 2023.

All of you notice that the tunnel is continuing to get colder as you make your way deeper into the stone.  The path is gravel-strewn in a couple places, which marks a change from when you were here last.  The reason is unclear, until writhing shapes begin to descend from the ceiling of the tunnel where they had been camouflaged.  There is one ahead and one behind, with the trio in the middle.

OOC: please make initiative rolls, difficulty 4

00:04, Today: Roberta Shadowprancer rolled 16 using 1d20.  Initiative difficulty 4 (reduced to 3 by Speed Edge 3), so need a 9.

15:06, Today: Alberic rolled 10 using 1d20.  Initiative - Difficulty 4. No modifiers.

Now I wish I'd put some Effort in! xD

10:55, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 15 using 1d20.  Initiative - Difficulty 4 [Extra Effort/1 3 Spd, '-2'Edge = Cost 1]. – 15

Cost: 1 spd

With deceptively casual speed Rob turns within the cover provided by a deeper shadow.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:47, Sat 06 May 2023.

After Rob stealthily passes by in the tunnel, a pair of pale, tentacle-faced quadrupeds drop out of concavities in the ceiling.  Alberic and Mhari are trapped between them.  They exude a brutal chill, sapping energy from the pair.  However the glaive and delve are quick to respond.

OOC: Alberic and Mhari attack at difficulty 4, defend at difficulty 5, due to the chill. You also each take 1 point of ambient damage from the cold. You are both in immediate range of each other and the beastie nearest you.

Rob, at short range, can attack at difficulty 3, with one asset for flanking it.

Turn order is:

Mhari and Rob
Beasties
Alberic

Mhari is displeased with the sudden ambush and likes NOT the tactical disposition of things... he decided to change it .. immediately. Letting the Mass-Blaster Slugspitter drop on its sling and turns to grab Alberic and bodily hefts him onto his shoulder with only a brief ,"...Sorry.. not healthy for us right here, Right Now!!!"

As his body trails lightning, his motions almost faster then the eye can follow ~ his touch is electric as Mhari ~ Bolt Rides with Alberic vanishing in a flash of lightning down the passageway to reappear both solid again down the hallway some 20'ft beyond Rob's position!

Mhari places Alberic behind him as he again hefts his Mass-Blaster Slugspitter... but he can't fire just yet recovering from his Bolt Rider journey!

Action: Bolt Rider - 1 Action [4 Int, Edge {-2}; Total: 2 Int]

Question: Does Armor apply vs the cold damage?
This message was last edited by the player at 12:16, Fri 12 May 2023.

Spinning rapidly round Rob swings her crossbow to centre on the weird creature and lets fly a bolt.

OOC: 16:15, Today: Roberta Shadowprancer rolled 16 using 1d20.  Broadsword rapid attack Difficulty 3, 1 asset (flanking), Speed attack, Edge 3
Edited to crossbow.
Rob's heavy medium weapon normally does 4 damage
This message was last edited by the player at 23:53, Thu 25 May 2023.

OOC: Mhari, no, Armor does not apply to the cold damage (unless you have Armor specifically against cold damage).

Rob, I'm going to assume you rushed at the nearest one to get within melee range.  That's fine.  Please take one point of cold damage.  Also, make a Speed Defense roll, difficulty 5.

The tunnel illuminates with the flash of Mhari's bolt as he and Alberic streak past Rob, who is firing the other way  at the frigid, tentacled beast.  Her bolt gouges a shallow chip in the creature, who seems to be made of ... whatever it is (some sort of whitish, bluish stony substance)... all the way through. The creature shakes off the bolt as it advances.

The creature turns to lunge at Rob, while its twin closes the gap (that once held Mhari and Alberic).  Both creatures now stand between the trio and the way out.

OOC: Alberic, you're up.  You and Mhari are currently in short range of both.  Rob is in immediate range of one and will be in immediate range of both by next round at the current rate.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:09, Fri 26 May 2023.

"What-?" Alberic has only a moment before being whisked away by Mhari. Finding himself standing some distance from where he was he nevertheless eyeballs the nearest creature and twisting a small dial in his left arm, he fires a beam of concentrated light at the nearest creature.

20:46, Today: Alberic rolled 14 using 1d20.  Trigger Iotum Ray - 3 Damage. Speed: 1 Level of Effort (Cost 3)

I think that's a hit?

OOC: When Rob was cited as flanking at short range I thought that meant already in melee. If its some steps away then can she (with editing) use her ranged weapon instead?

Mhari whips up his Mass-Blaster Slug-spitter to his shoulder and shouts, "Rob! Down!"

He pauses to let Rob react then unloads with a spray of Gravity impelled projectiles at both of the Stoney creatures... the sound of the weapon little more than that of grass rustling on the wind ~

'thwip-thwip-thwip-thwip-thwip~'

...the soft sound is in Distinct contrast to the loud impacts of the thousandfold multiplied mass of the metal slugs that sound like the crash of boulders!

'Bo-Bo-Bo-Bo-BOOM!!!'

11:40, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 5 using 1d20.  Trained Medium Ranged - Mass Blaster 'Spray' - 9 Dam, Speed 1lvl of Effort (Cost 3, Edge -2): 1spd. – 5

Being the first time Mhari has ever fired the weapon especially a spray of projectiles.. he somewhat over compensates for the burst... as the weapon has little to no recoil...
This message was last edited by the player at 15:46, Thu 25 May 2023.

Alberic's beam does, in fact, strike the nearest creature, but the energy seems to be absorbed or dissipated by its think hide (or just thick ... matter? substance?).

Mhari's shots tear into the nearest creature, breaking off substantial chunks which scatter on the ground, inert.


OOC:  Ok, here are the relative positions.  The creatures are closing and will be within melee range of Rob by their turn.

<-- exit beastie beastie ... Rob Mhari Alberic ---> broken portal

Rob's turn, and then the creatures' turn.  Then Alberic.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:18, Wed 31 May 2023.

Rob moves away towards the broken portal.

Rob has room to rush past Mhari and Alberic if she chooses.  The creatures will try to close one the closest human (Mhari or Rob), although only one can maneuver close enough to attack, reaching out with their frigid tentacles.  The party can see ice crystallizing on the surfaces of the passageway as the beasts saunter toward them.

OOC: Mhari or Rob, whoever is exposed, please take 1 point of ambient cold damage and make a Speed defense roll, difficulty 5.

Mhari will perform a slow covering fire withdraw... not to place any of the others at risk but merely to get back out of immediate melee reach of the tentacle creatures ~ just out of the touch of their cold aura. He continues spraying now a close range Burst of Gravitically accelerated projectiles at both beasts with no need to worry over hitting allies... he stands his ground!

08:28, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 5 using 1d20.  Speed Defense Test [Skilled at Defense-Trained] - 2 Levels Effort {Cost 5, Edge 2, Total: 3 Speed}. – 5
Diff: 5 {Tn 15}, Skilled at Defense-Trained {-1Diff}, -2Lvl Effort {-2Diff} - Diff: 2 {Tn6}

08:39, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 15 using 1d20.  Trained Ranged Weapon - Mass Blaster 'Spray' - 9 Dam, Speed 1lvl of Effort (Cost 3, Edge -2): 1spd. – 15
Diff: 3 {Tn 9}, Trained 'Medium' Ranged Weapon {-1Diff}, -1Lvl Effort {-1Diff} - Diff: 1 {Tn3}

Mhari steels himself as the cold and tentacles close in around him only gritting his teeth in determination wordlessly spraying down both creatures with the soft whispers of the Mass blaster's - pulverizing projectile barrage!

'thwip-thwip-thwip-thwip-thwip~'

'Ba-Ba-Ba-Ba-BANG!!!'

Mhari flexes his will as the creatures close in his eyes flaring with an electric incandescent glow as the holy lightning begins to arc around his body his hair writhing in the electric fury while encasing him in its crackling embrace the electric armor creating a glowing nimbus of ravening destructive lightning for anything that dare touch him!

Invoke Electric Armor {Enabler-Not an Action} [4 Int, Edge: -2, Cost: 2 Int]
- +1 to Armor. While electrified, you have an additional +2 to Armor versus electrical damage specifically, and you inflict 2 points of damage on any creature that touches you or attacks you with a melee weapon

Cost: 4 Spd, 2 Int, 1 Cold Damage
- Current Armor: Medium 2pts {+1 Electric Armor}, total: 3 {6 vs Electricity}
This message was last edited by the player at 04:07, Tue 20 June 2023.

Rob tries to shhot the cold creature and misses.

Mhari's blast at the one nearest him (along with the shocking of his armor as it wraps around him) obliterates the creature, sending flying chucks of freezing ... body mass careening down the passageway.  Some of the ricochets deflect Rob's shot and the other freezing beast continues its advance.  Even in death, though, the bitter cold tentacles wrench at Mhari's arm.

OOC: I think Alberic still needs to go from earlier, so let's have him act next.  You can take two actions, Alberic.

Mhari, please take 1 Might damage (that's after your armor is taken into account).
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:44, Tue 20 June 2023.

Alberic twists a dial on his arm and fires off another couple of shots - this time, the laser beam is more intense, and there is the smell of hot solder and sizzling flesh from his arm as he fires...

Sorry - I didn't realise I'd missed a turn! Anyway, if I'm allowed two actions it's two more shots.

08:43, Today: Alberic rolled 9 using 1d20.  Speed Attack - trigger iotum ray. 1 Level of Effort added to damage.

08:43, Today: Alberic rolled 12 using 1d20.  Speed Attack - trigger iotum ray. 1 Level of Effort added to damage.

That costs Alberic 6 Speed. The second one is a hit, I think? Standard damage for the Iotum Ray is 3, so we'll see if the added effort helps to do any more damage than the lost shot.

ROb wastes another crossbow bolt.

======
OOC: 21:24, Sat 10 June: Roberta Shadowprancer rolled 1 using 1d20.  crossbow v cold creature.

Alberic's blasts strike true, gouging black scars in the "hide" of the creature.  As Rob tries to follow with her own volley, the string on her crossbow breaks and the bolt clatters to the cave floor.  The creature, limping a bit, continues its chilly advance.

Still holding at rear guard, the creatures tentacles continue to try wrapping around Mhari.  The depth of the cold of the creature, even without touching it, is like nothing Mhari has ever experienced.

OOC: Mhari, take one point of cold damage.  Please make a defense roll, difficulty 5.

Mhari is displeased that he finds himself the Only combatant threatened and unsupported ... he should have known better than to trust those around him to help in battle much.  So he needed to change the narrative... he back peddles from the tentacled beast letting the Mass-Blaster drop on its sling as he uses his speed and grace to avoid the certain doom getting entangled by the creature certain is!

He will take his efforts to avoid being grabbed first and then draw blue-steel rapier Stormheart and ready his transparent shield focusing on maintaining his footing to begin melee combat...

10:31, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 14 using 1d20.  Speed Defense Test [Skilled at Defense-Trained] - 2 Levels Effort {Cost 5, Edge 2, Total: 3 Speed}. – 14
Diff: 5 {Tn 15}, Skilled at Defense-Trained {-1Diff}, -2Lvl Effort {-2Diff} - Diff: 2 {Tn6}

His scowl deepens as he readies himself to wade into melee ready for battle.. no longer concerned with his companions.. if he gets grabbed he seriously doubts they will be able to save him... that would be a stupid death... he will not go down that way!

If anything the electrified aura of lightning armoring him intensifies as Mhari grits his teeth building his anger.. and fueling his holy lightning ~ A Lghtning Warrior about to be unleashed!

Actions:
Mhari takes no offensive combat actions this turn he is taking action to changing weapons.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:41, Wed 05 July 2023.

The creature's swipe succeeds only in striking the walls of the passage, leaving frost blossoming on the stone.  It continues advancing toward the trio.  Deep gouges in the mass of the creature's body remain from the attacks it has sustained so far.

OOC: Alberic and Rob up now, in any order.

In reply to Immortal Eye (msg # 256):

"I think this hurting me more than it's hurting... it..." Alberic grunt, as the smell of hot solder and burning flesh come from his left arm. With a grimace, he lifts back part of the machinery, allowing a tendril of hot smoke to escape, and blowing into the gap to cool it.

17:42, Today: Alberic rolled 5 using 1d6.  Recovery roll. Recover 5 Points of Speed. That's my 1 action recover roll used!

Rob attaches the Disrupting Module cypher to her sword and moves back a bit from the cold zone.

======
OOC: Is it a full round action to activate a cypher like this?
This message was last edited by the player at 23:41, Sun 09 July 2023.

Mahri being the easiest prey, the remaining creature will press its attack on the valiant Glaive.

OOC: Mhari, please take 1 point of cold damage and make a Speed defense roll difficulty 5.

To clarify, if you all have not yet deduced, all tasks of those within immediate range of the creature are one step more difficult due to the extreme cold in its vicinity.

{OOC: Grr.. this Defense Roll was a miss roll.. I was still typing.. but I'll keep the roll ~ in fairness}

Mhari was back in his element now ~ melee cmbat.. with his shield at the ready it made defending against the beast that much easier.  He always prefered melee over ranged combat... took more courage to face a foe and look them in the eyes.  Always had seemed more 'honorable' to him.

Now his speed and training took over as he rather easily batted the attacks aside with his Transparent PlasShield and moved with a sudden flash of action and speed of lightning that was almost hard to follow with the eye!

09:28, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 6 using 1d20.  Diff: 5, Skilled Defense-Trained {-1Diff}, -2Lvl Effort {-2Diff}, Shield-Asset {-1Diff} - Diff: 1 {Tn3} [Cost 5, Edge 2, Total: 3 Speed]. – 6

Mhari moved or more like he flowed in motion stepping to the side of the hallway then moving so quickly it was almost missed that he.. not so much ran as sprang to the opposite side of the hallway and briefly ran on the wall to move around behind the creature keeping its attention away from the others...

- Obstacle Running (3 Spd): Dur: 1 min, Ignore obstacles that slow movement,
normal speed through {rubble, fences, tables, etc} [including: sliding on a railing, brief run along wall {ENABLER}
[Cost: 3, Edge -2 'Not a roll '; Total: 1Spd]

Now, once again a short distance behind the creature.. he dashed forward faster then the eye could follow to lunge at the creature the only clue that he'd moved being the flashing Stormheart ~ Blue Steel Rapier trailing arcing lightning to indicate he'd re-engaged aggressively and suddenly with the creature ~ Stabbing Deep with the glowing lightning arcing weapon in a calculated gamble to finish the creature with one perfect telling stroke!!!

- Aggression (2 Might) (asset to melee attacks, hindrance to Speed defense, duration of combat or your choice to end it)
- Lunge (2 Might) (You to extend yourself for a powerful stab or smash. Attack is hindered. On hit inflict 4 additional damage. (ACTION)
- Shock (1 Int) - your hands crackle with electricity. Alternatively, if you wield a weapon, for ten minutes it crackles with electricity and inflicts 1 additional point of damage per attack,  Action for touch (ENABLER for weapon)
Extra Effort/2 '5 Might', -1 Edge
[Cost: 9 Might 'Edge -1', 1 Int 'Edge -2'; Total: 8 Might, 0 Int]

Action:
Lunge Attack with Stormheart-Blue Steel Rapier (ACTION)
09:57, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 11 using 1d20.  Lunge Attack with Stormheart-Blue Steel Rapier - Diff 1 {Tn 3}. – 11
Diff: 5 {Tn 15}, Light Bladed Weapons-Trained {-1Diff}, Light bladed Weapon {-1Diff}, Aggression-Asset {-1Diff}, Extra-Effort/2 'Might' [5 Might, -1Edge 'roll'] {-2Diff}; Lunge-Attack hindered {+1Diff/ Spd Defense-While Aggressive} - Diff 1 {TN 3}

Stormheart Damage: Rapier-Light Weapon Dam 2, Combat Prowess +1 Dam, Shock +1 Dam, Lunge +4 Dam; Total: 8 Damage

Total cost: 8 Might, 1 Spd, 0 Int; Cold Dam 1 Might
This message was last edited by the player at 21:10, Thu 20 July 2023.

Rob swiftly moves up and tries to take a chunk out of the cold-creature.

21:44, Today: Roberta Shadowprancer rolled 4 using 1d20.  Heavy sword v cold creature dif 5-1skilled-3effort.
Dam 7 (base 6 +1 cypher)

Having let his systems cool a little, Alberic launches another shot at the final creature.

08:35, Today: Alberic rolled 17 using 1d20.  Speed Attack - trigger iotum ray. 1 Level of Effort added to damage.

Mhari is quite confident that as his rapier plunged deep into the body of the creature and electricity arced and burned from inside, the creature was doomed.  The strikes from Rob and Alberic break off pieces of the collapsing body and it falls inert.  The bone-numbing chill begins to dissipate from the tunnel, although it is still far colder than it was.

For a moment, the only sound, the only movement, is the breathing of the trio of explorers and the faint echoes of the fight diminishing into nothing.

Mhari takes a deep breath of relief... the constant presence of the cold in the fight unprotected by out of season warm clothing was indeed slowly sapping his might.  His hometown of Ghan was not familiar to such temperatures and was mostly tropical most of the year time.. cold was not unheard of but rare... save in the rainy season for a few weeks out of the year or out at sea.

Sheathing his Stormheart he leaned against the wall to catch his breath, "G-give me a moment or two... n-not use to such cold.  Thank you for your assistance!"

Taking Recovery Roll - to Might [1 Action]
18:29, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 6 using 1d6+5.  Mhari Recovery Roll [+5]. – 6

He hefted his Transparent PlasShield onto his shoulder and checked his Mass Blaster Slugspitter... and dutifully reloaded the weapon.

Artifact Depletion Check -
18:32, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 12 using 1d20.  Artifact Depletion roll [Mass Blaster Slug Spitter]. – 12 'Passed'
This message was last edited by the player at 00:09, Tue 25 July 2023.

"That was a mighty hit, Mhari," compliments Rob. "I agree; this may be a good time to take a breather."

======
OOC: Do recovery rolls have to be taken quickest first?

00:29, Today: Roberta Shadowprancer rolled 6 using 1d6+2.  Recovery roll

In reply to Roberta Shadowprancer (msg # 265):

Mhari favored Rob with a somber and self-deprecating smile, "...it was reckless, and cost more effort than was prudent.  I should have switched to melee sooner... I allowed it to sap my strength with its cold effects too long, and I had to drop it in one last blow of desperation or all my strength would have been spent. Fortunately my skill was sufficient that luck prevailed ~ this time. I'll be more wary of complacency in the future... hopefully.  But a win is a win... no one died... thank the Divine for that at least, the Seventh Son of the Seventh Son... lives another day, and so do his comrades!"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:07, Tue 25 July 2023.

Alberic breathes  a sigh of relief as the last creature goes down. "Well done, Mhari. That was a fine blow."

As they get their breath back, Alberic glances down the tunnel. "Should we press on to the portal, then? It's still quite cold... I wonder if there are more of them?"
This message was last edited by the player at 09:40, Tue 01 Aug 2023.

In reply to Alberic (msg # 267):

Mhari nods, "Yes, Let's press on... if the cold persists once we leave this immediate area.. we should light torches.  If there are more of them... I have a cypher that creates a heat weapon.. which might be more effective against them. I did not remember the cypher fast enough to use it in the last fight, but I'm ready now. But now we know they ambush from the ceiling so we should keep wary for such future tactics."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:31, Tue 01 Aug 2023.

Rob nods and, not really needing light, takes point and moves ahead almost as quietly as a whisper.

The temperature of the hallway soon returns to the "normal" cool of underground, and no further events stall their progress.  Soon, the trio is at the structure they understand to be a non-functioning gate that may lead to New Yenth.

Mhari steps aside for Alberic, "Alright, Wright... this is what we came here for.. use whatever instructions came from Yenth... see what you can do.  I'll keep watch.  Everyone Else stay at least 20'ft back from the portal when he tries to activate it."

Mhari readies his Force Field Bracelet-Cypher ready to move in to defend Alberic if something should come through the gate and be hostile.

Rob interjects, "Let me check out whether I can figure out how to help fix it."

She is skilled at tinkering with uch things; specialised in their dissassembly, and has some spare parts.

In reply to Roberta Shadowprancer (msg # 272):

Mhari bows, "Ah.. forgive me.. of course anyone who can contribute is welcome! I know I have no skill for such things.. I'm still in my studies as a AEON Priest - acolyte of the Order of Truth."

"Maybe you can tell me about that when we get back," suggests Rob as she settles down to examine the detail and condition of the gate.

In reply to Roberta Shadowprancer (msg # 274):

Mhari chuckles, "It be a rather boring conversation over dinner... most of acolyte training is reading old manuscript records of the things uncovered in expeditions and theorizing over the underlying science of the cyphers, artifacts and phenomenon observed and or recovered.  History records mostly. 'Only by understanding the nature of the past can we divine the possible course of the future'... and all that.  It's slow going as I must still keep my Glaive skills & instincts sharp ~ understanding Numenera is hard!  Nano's have an easier time with scholarly work."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:01, Fri 04 Aug 2023.

The portal/doorway itself is built into the far end of the tunnel.  It seems mostly intact, although there is enough stone and other material on it and around it that fun investigation is impossible at the moment.  It seems of a tarnished bronze color, identical to the larger portal in Yenth.  There is no obvious damage, but the installation seems inert.  Where there portal space would be, the frame is filled with a dark, solid substance.  It appears similar to smoked glass, hard and smooth.

"We'll need to clear away some of this stonework for a proper look," concludes Rob. "Need tools for that She steps back, ready to go.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:09, Mon 07 Aug 2023.

Mhari agrees, "Yeah, we need to ..carefully remove the stone and detritus from around and on the Arch to get a full documentation of its patterns and possible controls. Alberic... you brought tools for that, how can we assist to speed it up... as safely as possible?  We do know this, my holy lightning power can cause a reaction... but unpredictably.  Best I not use them until we have uncovered and documented the entire device but if need be I can recharge the device.. and I do have a collection of power-cells with a good chance of having something that will power the gate."

"I have knocked together something that might help." Alberic grins, puffing a cloud of yellow, lemon-scented smoke from his pipe. He pulls two dull metal plates from his pack."It will redirect gravity, so I hope to make a gravity tunnel that can make the rubble 'fall' away..."

With the tools and team available, it will take several hours to uncover a meaningful portion of the portal that is now encased in the stone.  The group grows to understand that it has been installed in this location, not merely entombed here by eons of sediment and pressure.

Rob keeps awareness of the time and treis to estimate whetrher the group are liekely to finish meaningful uncovering today.

Mhari will assist and closely watch, asking questions and listening to explanation over the course of the days as the portal artifact is uncovered.  Continuing his studies and hands on work in field work of artifact discovery and examination furthering his experience as an acolyte of the Aeon priests.

In the evenings, Mhari will return to the Clave and will see to Ur-Dani's needs, engaging her in her own language in hopes of polishing his proficiency with her assistance ~ perhaps eventually convincing her to trust him enough to allow him to eat dinner in her presence... keeping in mind the limits of her social customs.

Of course he will remain vigilant as a glaive to keep the work area in the Caves safe while the researchers work.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:25, Sun 13 Aug 2023.

After about a week of travels to and from the gate, along with consultations with the miner brothers, much of the frame of the gate has been excavated.  It seems that it was, as Alberic opined, not designed to be moved, but rather a fixed object, by the way it was situated in the stone.  The exact process or mechanism which seated the gate in the its present location is unknown.

The excavations reveal several panels which seem able to be removed (although returning them to pristine condition afterward may be harder.  The energy level and activity of the gate is unchanged during the process, that is to say, inert.  Nalla asks many questions and demands sketches, but does not leave her workshop.

The tramping back and forth through the tunnel/cave allows the crew to witness the degradation of the stony remains from the freezing creatures.  Hints of metal and crystal are exposed, and a few cyphers are able to be salvaged from within the shattered bits.

Mhari's efforts to engage Ur-dani make some slow progress.  She is becoming less imperious as she acclimates to the clave.  Her efforts to practice her telekinesis are halting, at best.  And she only cut herself with a flying axe once so far.  She still refuses to engage with anyone poorly dressed or dirty, although her standards are looser with children, whose child-like behavior seems almost strange to her.

At the clave, slow progress is made in the construction efforts.

OOC: you may each roll a d701 to determine the cypher you find.

Mhari will watch the investigation and excavation of the portal machinery particularly the panels that can be removed but will counsel nothing be removed or opened until detailed sketches and drawings of the entire machine are made and sent to both Nalla and the Aeon Priesthood in Yenth and new directives or analysis is communicated.

He himself will look and 'feel' with his ability to power devices to see if there is some specific portion he can discern where recharging the device might be done, but makes NO Effort to do so... merely report his findings to the Aeon Priests in Yenth.

He does indeed examine the remains of the stony freezing creatures looking for cyphers that might be recovered.

{OOC: Looking for something that might be a Glaive Improvement.. considering that glaives are always looking for post-human upgrades to their bodies to improve combat capabilities.  In this case looking for something that is worn like an armor upgrade of some sort?}

07:19, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 430 using 7d100.  What 7d100? – 430
So potential results: 430, 340, 403, 304, 043, 034?
23:30, Today: Mhari 'Stormbolt' rolled 453 using 1d701 ((453)).
This message was last edited by the player at 03:31, Thu 17 Aug 2023.

Alberic spends the week in a state of great excitement, taking as many notes and readings as he can, furiously sketching images of the gate and offering his thoughts and observations to those around him, whether they are interested or (more often) not. He cheerfully regales Nalla with every detail he can find. He is clearly in his element here.

07:57, Today: Alberic rolled 110 using 1d701 ((110)).

With the efforts of the new clave moving away from the need of combat but turning to research... Mhari slowly falls back to his 'proclivities' and in his off time not working with the research crew or providing security for the "dig".. he turns his attention to trying to charm and romance Raelle Pellegrino over  lunch and passtime.  Seeing if she will go with him for a few aerial rides on Z'Dakk in recreation.

He makes NO such attempts on Ur'Dani, she's a married woman after all...

Alberic finds a crystalline vial with some liquid in it.  Deception filter; lvl 1d6; User cannot knowing tell a lie for one hour.

Mhari's find is more interesting, if a bit more curious as well.  It isn't armor, but would certainly prove to extend his fighting capabilities in the right circimstances. A pair of metallic headbands with strange inscriptions and small  chambers (?) are tied together with some rotting twine.  Fallback Clone; lvl 10; To activate this device, the user must place a few drops of blood, strands of hair, nail clippings, or a piece of flesh in a sealed, water-filled tank with one of the headbands and wear the other one.  The headband in the tank facilitates the rapid growth of a clone in one month.  The clone is a fully grown creature, identical in every physical way to the user.  However, it has no consciousness and remains in a comatose state in the tank.  Once the clone has matured, if at any time the user dies while wearing the headband, their consciousness is transferred into the clone, regardless of distance.  All skills, abilities, and knowledge are transferred.  The user does not need to wear the headband throughout the process (if, for example, they are worried about their cypher limit) - just at the beginning to spur the clone's growth.  However, if they die while not wearing the headband, no transfer occurs.

It's not entirely clear why these items, and the other bits of detritus discovered, were within the stony bodies of the freezing creatures.  Perhaps they were held by previous victims?