The rock of the building-sizes wagon is relaxing but for the oppressive heat, the stink of body odor, and the general despair of those poor souls you can see imprisoned near you.  Aeryn and Nantas are familiar with these behemoth wagons, used to ferry goods along the trade routes between the few remaining Martian great cities.  A handful of smaller wagons and a dozen mounted thoat steeds travel with the main vehicle, serving as guards.  There are several guards stationed upon your level and who pass frequently upon patrol.  You can only assume the lower levels are equally manned.

From the direction you travel, Aeryn and Nantas believe the destination to be the Red Martian city of Zodanga.

"Zodanga!" Nantas never saw before that famous city!

Demetrius had been slowly but surely learning how to flirt with Aeryn. Language and cultural barriers made this an interesting endeavor, but he was up for the challenge--at least in his mind!

At this exclamation from his tusked companion, though, Demetrius turns and, first, in English, says, "Bless you," in jest. He then breaks into Martian. "That word is new to me. What is Zodanga?"

"Zodanga is one of the most famous and powerful cities of Barsoom! Somebody loves it for its power and its technology, somebody hates it for its desire to command and conquer... exploiting the land and its inhabitants with no restraint.
John Carter was often involved in the wars between Helium and Zodanga... who knows which face of Zodanga we will see... although, being slaves and gladiators, we have to keep our expectations very low: Zodanga is famous for squeezing the helpless."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:14, Thu 15 Oct 2020.

Demetrius turns and eyes the place. "Sounds like Los Angeles. I hope they're ready for one Earthman to squeeze back. I don't mean to stay in chains forever." He leans back and flexes his muscles. He was still wrapping his brain around his new "superpowers" and the range of the possible. He at least had the math for dealing with gravity down, but a lot of the finer points of his new strength still needed to be worked out.

"I know not this Los Angeles," Aeryn cautions, "but Zodanga is a dangerous city of Red Men.  Once it was a protectorate of Helium but it too has splintered and been lost in the decades of decline.  The Zodangan's resentment of their conquerors swelled a declaration of war against Helium though neither has engaged in more than occasional border skirmishes for many years.  But should two ships from the opposing cities chance upon one another in the open expanse of Barsoom they will attack without hesitation."

"The Zodangans were always a fractured, contentious lot; the city always a hotbed of sedition. Crime is rampant and even the Assassin's Guild, once thought destroyed, has shown signs of resurgence. It would be no great surprise to find that slaves are common in a great many of its nobles' houses but...I would not expect they would keep Green Men even for servitude.  Zodanga historically held the most fearsome enmity to the green hordes to include the destruction of any Green Man incubators they chanced to find.  Their goal no less that the eradication of the race in its entirety."

It is clear the Helium Navy scout has no love for one of the great enemies of her homeland.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:51, Fri 16 Oct 2020.

Demetrius frowns at this revelation. "Well, that's a lot worse than Los Angeles, then. Some resemblance, but worse."

He cocks his head and smiles winningly at Aeryn. "Los Angeles is a large city on my world. It is filled with beautiful women, though none of them equal you in beauty."

"I noticed that you have no regret about killing to survive... for sure Jasoom trains its inhabitants adequately for the harsh living conditions on Barsoom... whether it is Los Angeles, or... Virginia."

Aeryn glance about the squalid conditions and then her dirty form before smirking, "Oh yes, a rival to Deja Thoris I'm sure."  As usual she takes these comments with levity.

She awaits to hear Demetrius share more of Jasoom in answer to Nantas' question...

Demetrius begins to tell the group about Los Angeles. He first describes it physically--the valley, the rolling hills surrounding, the slope down to the Pacific. He lingers on his description of the Pacific, as this gets a reaction from the dwellers of this far land. In the back of his mind, he wondered if he was ever going to see an ocean again himself--this planet sounded quite dry!

He then described life in Los Angeles, emphasizing how it was mostly peaceful but with pockets of violence here and there. "But, the cities in my home do not fight each other. We are part of one nation that takes up half of our continent. And we do not even war with our northern neighbors. It is far more peaceful>"

Nantas shakes his head, struggling to grasp the concept of having a planet with suck a big extent of surface water that the dry "continents" are just a minority of the planet surface.

"And yet you fight quite well," Aeryn nods, "Patterson claimed to be a soldier in combat somewhere on Jasoom and John Cater to have been one as well earlier in his life.  Do Jasoomian's like you train for war in readiness should it occur?"

"I am told that scientists of Helium have scopes which can view Jasoom and gaze upon the wide, blue expanses of its oceans.  Upon Barsoom we have but the underground Sea of Korus but it is closes to all now that the Black Men of Mars have returned to their raiding and pillaging.  No nation can commit to the fleet it would take to break their lines and no two nations will ally together."

Demetrius leans back and shakes his head. "No, I'm one of the few in my homeland who know how to fight. I trained under a private teacher for a long time, so I'm better than most. The average person from my home would have died in that arena."

At this mention of the Black Men of Barsoom, Demetrius leans in. "I'd wonder how you all came to be so different. Some of you are more like the men of my world than others. I have several friends at home who would enjoy studying your origins to no end. Mind you, they are among those who would not have survived the greeting we received."

"Maybe some Barsoomsan scientist would love to study your body to no end as well... this isn't necessarily good for you and I guess that there are many scientists on Zoodanga..."

Demetrius' eyes narrow. "Oh, I'll make them pay if they try to turn me into a specimen. Trust me.

"But that's my story. What about you, Nantas? What of your life?"

"Well... you are already a specimen: you are in chains and in a cage...
My story isn't very interesting: my tribe traded me to the Warhoons as a kind of tribute. My tribe is too small and weak to fight the Warhoons and we have been paying this kind of tributes for long time. If I will be able to survive and go back to my tribe, I will have a high status. If I die.... anyway my tribe lived to fight another day.
A win-win situation, someone may say..."
It is difficult to say when Green Martians are sarcastic, with all that tusks coming out of their mouths.

Demetrius' face tightens a bit at this. "Yes, a hard world, Barsoom," he says. He turns back to Aeryn, smiling. "Tell me more of yourself, Aeryn."

The red woman describes her home city of Helium and her life in the royal navy where she holds the rank of Dwar commanding a company of scouts.  You each have the sense that she is a fiercely honorable person and clearly longs to escape captivity and return home.

The conversation fades with the setting of the sun, the transition to night so swift in the lesser atmosphere of Barsoom.  The meager sleeping silks you are provided barely ward the cold as you three huddle together with the rest of the cargo while guards make their rounds.

This continues for another two days until the nighttime slumber is broken by the sounds of sudden rifle fire and horns from various parts of the caravan.  Nantas immediately recognizes a raid has begun, such caravans would be tempting targets for Green men tribes though he cannot say for certain which tribe it might be.  There is confusion and shouts from guads and  other cells, hope from prisoners but also fear.  An occasional rifle bullet ricochets or embeds itself nearby, at least one in a guard who topples from the walkway near your cell and disappears.   Your captors focus on rallying the defense, occasionally running past as the battle shifts and sallies come from different directions; for the first time since leaving the Warhoon pens you are relatively unobserved.

What will you do?

Scene:
You are locked inside your cage/cell, 4 walls of bars like an old timey jail.  The space between the bars is wide enough you can reach through but not fit your body through.   There are 2 doors each with an impressive lock (you suspect they are wary of Jasoomian strength).  You can tell the other nearby cells are not so reinforced.

This is meant to be a top-down view, each square is a cell, you're in the X and the D's are cell doors.

____________________
                     > the outer balcony
+----+-D--+-----+
|    | X  |     |   > more cells in this direction
+----+-D--+-----+
                    > walkway between row of cells
+----+-D--+-----+
|    |    |     |   > more cells
+----+-D--+-----+
                    > walkway between row of cells
+----+-D--+-----+
|    |    |     |
+----+-D--+-----+
                    > walkway between row of cells
+----+-D--+-----+
|    |    |     |
+----+-D--+-----+
____________________ > opposite balcony



You have only meager sleeping silks, a bucket (for....you know...needs), the harnesses you each wear and your determination.

If you think of anything else it might be reasonable for slaves to have feel free to ask.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:35, Thu 29 Oct 2020.

"Let's lay low to avoid random bullets and be ready to take any opportunity..."

Demetrius is not nearly so passive. He moves away from the door and starts jiggling the bars back and forth, twisting them, to see where he could start loosening a couple of them closer to the bottom...

Demetrius finds the cage to be strong, extra reinforcements are clearly evident that are missing from the adjoining cells (to your right one holds a pair of Thark slaves and to your left a red man).

Strong but not necessarily impossible.

Aeryn taps Demetrius as a pair of slavers run by the outer balcony, moving to repel a new thrust of the raiders.  They do not appear to glance your way and you are able to continue.

To try to break out with raw force will be a Dire[D4] Might + Cunning test (please indicate which cell wall you make the attempt at)

Should you move instead to attempt to pick or break the lock it will be a Daunting[D3] Cunning + Reason test (please indicate which cell door you make this attempt at)

Spending Momentum (does anyone have any?), adding Threat or spending your Luck can all be used to add dice or pre-roll a 1 for success.

Max of 3d20 can be added for roll.

Additionally others can assist if you can justify how they could contribute to the action.  This allows them to roll a single d20 and compare to their own attributes.  This does not count toward the 3d20 max additional dice for test.

Be bold and inventive.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:36, Wed 04 Nov 2020.

Although doubtful that the prison can be sprung open and hopeful that a better opportunity will present itself soon, Nantas helps the Jasoomian in his attempts.

Demetrius tests the bars and finds them sound. Given time, he might have loosened them with time. This was not the time for this, however. He instead found a splinter from one of them and tore it off, marveling at the native strength of his hands here. He then moved to the lock and began quickly to try to jimmy it. He slips his hand in and, feeling it quickly, twists it ably. Lucky angle--the lock pops open with a snap.

He grins broadly and opens the door. "Quickly, everyone--out. Nantas, take point."

Burn one point of Luck to get a natural 1 for 2 successes. Then rolled well with Cunning + Reason and got 2 successes, for a net of 4 successes. I bank one Momentum!

19:12, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 8,14 using 1d20,1d20 with rolls of 8,14.  Picking lock: Cunning + Reason, 15/7.

Aeryn smiles to Demetrius and Nantas, "Well done!  But we are unarmed.  Let us search for a store on this level where the guards keep supplies."

Another raider's round strikes the ceiling of your cell.  The attackers must be close as their shots seem to come at a steeper angle.

"And hope the raiders prefer to kill slavers more than slaves, possessing eyes keen enough to tell the difference."

She is ready to follow Nantas' lead from the cell
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:46, Sat 07 Nov 2020.

Nantes is a bit surprised by Aeryn's comment, then he realises that he's a Green Martian and noticing the difference between him and the slavers is easy, while it may be more complicate for his companions. Anyway, fighting with a rifle against an unarmed opponent would be very dishonourable.
"For me, the best weapon is the sword!" he walks out of the cage, looking at suitable places where the guards may keep weapons.
"Maybe we should release some other prisoners, just to avoid being singled out by the guards, if they turn around..."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:31, Thu 05 Nov 2020.

Demetrius nods and examines the other cages to see who else is their fellow prisoner...

"We cannot tarry long," Aeryn warns, eyes alert for guards shifting positions once more, "Our captors focus on the raiders but if they come upon us they will not spend more time than it takes a bullet or blade to deal with upstart prisoners."

As Nantas suggests, Demetrius considers the prisoners nearby.  Most have simply dropped to their bellies, keeping low lest a chance bullet strike.  The pair of Tharks in the cell to your right appear unconcerned.  One happens to catch your movements from the corner of her eye and pats her cellmate with a lower arm and points quietly.  The red man in the cell to your left looks much more concerned.  He is backed into a corner, as far from the outer balcony an he can get, with his sleeping silks covering him.  As yet he is unaware of your presence.

These cells do not share the extra reinforcements of your own, neither for the bars nor the locks.  Demetrius "lockpick" however was ruined in springing your cell door, something stronger than wood would be ideal.

There is a large, crashing sound from the distance and cries both of cheer and despair that ring through the dark.  If you had to guess you surmise one of the vehicles accompanying the massive wagon has been destroyed by the raiders.

Clarify something for me:  Which cell door did you open?  The one opening to the outer balcony or the one opening to the inner walkway between rows of cells?  See msg 18 above for top down view

Reduce difficulty to open other cells by 1: Daunting(D3) Might + Cunning to break them with raw force or Challenging(D2) Cunning + Reason to pick simple locks without proper tools.  If you wish to hurry these actions add 1D.

Again, to assist justify HOW you will assist and roll 1d20 and compare to above to see if you contribute a Success or not.

Feel free to direct NPCs as you see fit, including Aeryn.

Demetrius turns to Nantas and Aeryn quickly. "Which ones do we free?" he asks succinctly.

"Let's release the Green Men. The Green Men are better on the open desert and, if we leave this transport here, we'll be on the open desert: Zoodanga is still far..."

Demetrius does not hesitate. He moves to the spot by the tharks' bars and says, "If you want to be free, push. Nantas, help me pull." Then, with a mighty tug, he pulls....

And whiffs. Burn my momentum for only 1 success and a Complication. Yippee.

18:23, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 15,20,16 using 1d20,1d20,1d20 with rolls of 15,20,16.  Might + Cunning w/1 Momentum: 15/7.

Nantes swiftly helps with all the strength of his four arms.

[OOC: 21:25, Today: Nantas rolled 5 using 2d20 with rolls of 3,2.  Cunning 9; Might 6.
four successes 8)   ]

One of the Tharks slaps the other to move and quickly four more hands grab the same bars Nantas or Demetrius hold.  Together they strain and slowly you feel the metal give.  With a final, screeching sound the bars part far enough for the Tharks to squeeze their massive frames out of the cell and into the walkway.  But the noise is enough that other prisoners in the nearby cells take notice.  Desperate faces push to the bars, red and green hands reach through and pleas for help begin to rise, swelling in volume.  The red fellow you considered earlier is especially vocal in his pleading.

"Look there! Those crates!" Aeryn points down the walkway towards the front of the wagon where stacks of crates tied.  Nantas recognizes the symbol for weapons stamped upon several.

At nearly the same time you hear a shout.  Though the rows of cells you see one of the slavers staring in shock at your group from the far balcony.  Were it not for the several walls of bars that he would need shoot through you would surely already be under fire.  Instead he attempts to draw the attention of the others of his ilk who are currently aiming their weapons at the raiders below.


The Tharks failed their assist rolls but Nantas added 2 successes to meet the needed 3!  You have 2 allies but you are discovered!

20:23, Today: Aeryn Arj rolled 10 using 2d20 with rolls of 8,2.  Find weapons D2 difficulty, Daring + Reason 14/6.
- 3 successes, bank 1 Momentum

As they are on the far side of this level, should you or the slavers wish to fire upon each other it will be a D3 difficulty (trying to shoot though 3 cells worth of metal bars).

This message was last edited by the GM at 02:36, Fri 13 Nov 2020.

Nantes knows that getting the weapons is a risk, as honour rules on Barsoom require the two sides of a duel to fight on equal terms, so if they get a rifle, the Red Men will be free to attack with a rifle... but Nantas doesn't trust much Red Martians' honour and he feels his hands want to wield some blades once again, so he shoots to the weapons, hopefully followed by the Tharks.
As he runs, he turns back to the two companions that shared his same cell: "Release as many prisoners as possible! We'll try and hold the guards."

Demetrius shrugs and moves to the red fellow and says, "Back away. You better be ready to fight."

He begins pulling...

First try is a fail.
16:59, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 16,9 using 1d20,1d20 with rolls of 16,9.  Might + Cunning 15/7.

Demetrius is stymied in his initial attempt to stretch the bars enough to allow the red man to squeeze through.  The fellow is of little help and possibly berates the Earthman as he works; it's difficult for Demetrius to be certain as the Barsoomian language is still very new and the red man communicating so rapidly and animated.

Nanta, the Tharks and Aeryn rush for the crates and the towering Martians waste little time in sending two crashing to the deck, spilling their contents.  The first contains numerous blades while the second a cache of pistols.  Wasting little time the Tharks and Aeryn grab one of each.

Meanwhile the alert slaver moves to his nearby comrades and apprises them of the danger to their rear.  With angry cries a group of five rush towards to front of the ship, intending to round the corner and confront those looting the crates of weapons, while another group of five rush towards the rear and will likely circle round from behind, perhaps coming down the very walkway where Demetrius yet remains.  Undoubtedly they intend to catch the group in a crossfire.

Zones: Fore (Nantas, Aeryn, Tharks), Walkway 1, Walkway 2, Walkway 3 (Demetrius), Outer Port (Salver Groups 1 & 2), Outer Starboard, Aft  - Basically this level is a big rectangle with 3 walkways going through it between the rows of cells.

In same zone you are considered Near - Characters can shoot at, speak with, and generally interact with anyone Near.  You can easily move to Immediate and engage in melee.  Normal distance for pistols.
In adjacent zones you are considered Away - Normal distance for rifles.  Increased difficulty for Pistols.
2 Zones distance is Far - Increased difficulty for rifles.
To move from one walkway to another you must 1st move to either Fore or Aft

The space is not tidy.  There are various crates, items, etc about so it is always assumed characters have cover or otherwise are not at a disadvantage during combat.

You always get a Conflict, Move (1 zone), Spoken, & Free actions on your turn.  You may forego your Conflict action for another Move (move additional zone).

Slaver Group 1 appears headed towards Fore to engage you in Close or Immediate attacks.

Slaver Group 2 appears headed towards Aft and then presumably will either come down one of the walkways or go around to Outer Starboard.

You may declare you actions 1st and either wait for your opponents where you are or move to meet them.

This message was last edited by the GM at 01:16, Tue 24 Nov 2020.

Nantas picks up two sabres and challenges his enemies to fight him in a melee. He doesn't like using any other weapon apart than swords.

Demetrius gives the red man in the cage a baleful luck and dives for the cover of the weapons crates. He tries to get under cover while grabbing at the first thing that looks like a gun that he can find.

Demetrius rolls beside Aeryn as one group of slavers reach the front of the wagon where Nantas stands proud and motions for them to meet him, blade to blade.  The scoundrels barely hesitate as they fire upon the noble Green Man and his companions.

5 attackers, 2 will target Nantas and the rest will role 1d4 for Demetrius, Aeryn, Thark1 & Thark2

18:38, Today: Jeddak rolled 18 using 2d20 with rolls of 4,14.  Slaver4 vs Demetrius...only Nantas gets 2 attackers :).
- Demetrius defend vs 2 successes

18:37, Today: Jeddak rolled 2 using 1d4 with rolls of 2.  Slaver5 target.

18:37, Today: Jeddak rolled 26 using 2d20 with rolls of 11,15.  Slaver4 vs Aeryn.
- miss

18:36, Today: Jeddak rolled 2 using 1d4 with rolls of 2.  Slaver4 target.

18:36, Today: Jeddak rolled 11 using 2d20 with rolls of 5,6.  Slaver3 vs Thark1.
- Thark1 will defend vs 2 successes

18:36, Today: Jeddak rolled 3 using 1d4 with rolls of 3.  Slaver3 target.

18:36, Today: Jeddak rolled 20 using 2d20 with rolls of 3,17.  Slaver2 vs Nantas 9/4.
- Nantas defend vs 1 success

18:36, Today: Jeddak rolled 31 using 2d20 with rolls of 20,11.  Slaver1 vs Nantas 9/4.
- Complication!

18:43, Today: Jeddak rolled 34 using 2d20 with rolls of 16,18.  Thark1 defend 9/4.
- 0 successes

18:46, Today: Jeddak rolled 3 using 2d6 with rolls of 1,2.  Pistol dmg to Thark1.
- Thark1 takes 2 stress


One of the Tharks is too bold, failing to duck in time, and bloodied from a radium round. Aeryn ducks as the crate beside her splinters from the projectiles.  One of the slavers points his weapon at Nantas and hears nothing but an empty clicking.  Cursing he pulls a magazine from his belt and reloads the weapon having spent all of his ammo firing upon the raiders below.

Defend vs pistol-fire using Daring + Empathy...or whatever attribute you can justify.

Then post your actions for this turn!

[OOC: 11:03, Today: Nantas rolled 29 using 2d20 with rolls of 17,12.  Daring 9 Empathy 3.
Pretty poor roll, but I think I got the one success that I needed, right?
My hope is that my highly honourable behaviour will impress adequately the two Tharks into becoming my followers.]

Correct you negate the single success.  Declare your actions!

Note your opponents are in the same zone as you (range is Close) so you can easily move into Immediate range if you wish to engage them in melee
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:16, Thu 03 Dec 2020.

Demetrius sees the slaver leveling his gun in his direction and makes a very quick calculation, rolling right. His guess is right: the shot flies to his left, tearing up the platform below him. Demetrius grits his teeth, thinking--he is at a disadvantage in a firefight. He grabs a sword from a nearby bin and crouches, springing upward. On earth, this jump would have gotten him about four feet of elevation; in this case, he leapt above the foes and landed behind one of them. His blade slices, cutting across the fellow's mid-section...

Defense is a solid 3 successes. Bank one Momentum. On his turn, grab a sword and move to engage the slavers; hits with another 4 successes (!). Will spend some Momentum on extra damage depending on how well the defender does.

22:09, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 1,3,1,4 using 1d6,1d6,1d6,1d6 with rolls of 1,3,1,4.  Damage!
22:08, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 4,8,5 using 1d20,1d20,1d20 with rolls of 4,8,5.  Attacking slaver, 13/6 + Thinks Fast bonus.
8:15, Yesterday: Demetrius Esper rolled 13,4 using 1d20,1d20 with rolls of 13,4.  Defending: Daring + Reason (ThinksFast) 14/7.

The Slavers are so amazed at the Earthman's ability to leap they momentarily hesitate....and Demetrius skewers one of them.  The Redman is dead before his body hits the floor.

20:00, Today: Jeddak rolled 29 using 2d20 with rolls of 15,14.  Slaver 4 Defend vs Demetrius 9/4-.
- 0 successes, Demetrius hits and generates 2 Momentum

These slavers are mere Minions - you may spend Momentum to Dispatch a Minion (See Reference thread MOMENTUM SPEND)
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:06, Sun 06 Dec 2020.

Nantes is still loyal to his sword and charges towards his enemies, while (hopefully) his new allies will provide some cover with their ranged weapons.

You can easily reach the slavers near you this turn.  You may still make an attack.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:04, Sun 06 Dec 2020.

Nantes attacks the closest slaver with the two blades he just picked up.

[OOC: 18:39, Today: Nantas rolled 19 using 2d20 with rolls of 11,8.  Cunning 9 Daring 9.
Three successes, right?]

[EDIT: OOC: I'm adding here the damage rolls:
18:40, Today: Nantas rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3.  damage roll 2.
18:40, Today: Nantas rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1.  damage roll 1.]

Exactly

19:40, Today: Jeddak rolled 17 using 2d20 with rolls of 8,9.  Saver1 Defend vs Nantas 9/4-.
- actually got 2 successes, you still hit, dead minion

The fellow's eyes widen as Nantas charges the group, he barely brings his blade up in time to catch the first of the duelist's sword points....but the second easily slips past his guard and cuts him down.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:41, Tue 08 Dec 2020.

Aeryn fires from her position behind a crate

19:49, Today: Aeryn Arj rolled 33 using 3d20 with rolls of 12,20,1.  Shoot Slaver, Talent with blade or bullet 14/6-.
- hmmm 3 successes and a Complication

19:50, Today: Jeddak rolled 17 using 2d20 with rolls of 5,12.  Slaver Defend vs Aeryn 9/4-
- 1 success

2 successes total, Aeryn banks 1 Momentum

The round takes the man in the shoulder as he peeks out to fire, spinning him round and dropping him over the outer railing....followed by a surprised shout from the lower deck.

Meanwhile the newly freed Green Men also return fire against the 1st group of slavers.

19:52, Today: Jeddak rolled 15 using 2d20 with rolls of 11,4.  Thark 1 shoot Slaver, 9/4-.
- 2 successes

19:53, Today: Jeddak rolled 24 using 2d20 with rolls of 16,8.  Slaver Defends vs Thark 1, 9/4-.
- 1 success, dead minion

19:54, Today: Jeddak rolled 5 using 2d20 with rolls of 1,4.  Thark 2 shoot Slaver 9/4-.
- 4 successes!

19:54, Today: Jeddak rolled 26 using 2d20 with rolls of 16,10.  Slaver Defend vs Thark 2 9/4-.
- 0 successes, VERY dead minion


The pair of Tharks give proof to the legendary accuracy of the Green men, the second actually shooting his target squarely between the eyes.

Demetrius, your call if you want to use any of your Momentum to automatically kill the last of the slavers in this group or attack him normally next round....after he attacks 1st that is
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:26, Mon 07 Dec 2020.

NOTE: Demetrius still can decide whether to spend a Momentum and kill last Slaver in group 1 or if he is still alive and allowed to attack.  If so I'll roll for him before your actions.

The second group of slavers advance from Aft down Walkway 3 where they take up position with rifles and open fire on Aeryn and the Tharks.

21:53, Today: Jeddak rolled 15 using 2d20 with rolls of 5,10.  Slaver6 vs Aeryn 9/4
- 1 success

21:53, Today: Jeddak rolled 6 using 2d20 with rolls of 5,1.  Slaver7 vs Aeryn, 9/4-.
- 3 successes

21:54, Today: Jeddak rolled 14 using 2d20 with rolls of 11,3.  Slaver 8 vs Thark 1
- 1 success

21:55, Today: Jeddak rolled 10 using 2d20 with rolls of 4,6.  Slaver 9 vs Thark 1.
- 3 successes

21:55, Today: Jeddak rolled 26 using 2d20 with rolls of 6,20.  Slaver 10 vs Thark 2.
- 1 success and a Complication

21:57, Today: Aeryn Arj rolled 7 using 2d20 with rolls of 2,5.  Aeryn Defend vs Slaver 6 1 success 14/6-.
- 4 successes, Aeryn negates the single success and banks 3 Momentum (total 4)

21:59, Today: Aeryn Arj rolled 48 using 4d20 with rolls of 6,13,12,17.  Aeryn Defend vs Slaver 7 3 successes, use 2 Momentum Create Opportunity 14/6-.
- 4 successes, Aeryn banks 1 Momentum (total 3)

22:00, Today: Jeddak rolled 13 using 2d20 with rolls of 6,7.  Thark 1 vs Slaver 8 1 success, 9/4-.
- 2 successes, negates Slaver 8 attack

22:01, Today: Jeddak rolled 39 using 2d20 with rolls of 20,19.  Thark 1 vs Slaver 9 3 successes, 9/4-.
- 0 successes and a Complication, ouch

22:05, Today: Jeddak rolled 8 using 4d6 with rolls of 1,1,4,2.  Damage vs Thark 1.
- Thark 1 takes 3 damage

22:02, Today: Jeddak rolled 9 using 2d20 with rolls of 4,5.  Thark 2 vs Slaver 10 1 success, 9/4-.
- 3 successes, negates Slaver 10 attack

Radium rounds explode around Aeryn and the Tharks, the crates of weapons disintegrating under the barrage of rifle fire.  This causes one of the crates to topple upon on of the Tharks, trapping him momentarily.  But not all of the rounds are accurate as one explodes in the lock of one of the cells along the hallway, popping the cell door open.

Meanwhile Demetrius and Nantas hear shouts from below and the sound of booted feet ascending metal stairs.  Suddenly the pair recognize that a corner stairwell lies nearby in the Fore of the wagon....just as another group of Slavers ascend to see why those above still fire but clearly not at the raiders below!  With a shout the lot falls upon the Jasoomian and Green Man with their blades...

22:13, Today: Jeddak rolled 30 using 2d20 with rolls of 15,15.  Slaver 11 vs Demetrius.
- miss!  Demetrius you may still defend if you wish to try to generate Momentum

22:13, Today: Jeddak rolled 17 using 2d20 with rolls of 4,13.  Slaver 12 vs Demetrius.
- 1 success (they all attack 9/4-), Demetrius defend

22:14, Today: Jeddak rolled 31 using 2d20 with rolls of 12,19.  Slaver 13 vs Nantas 9/4-.
- miss! Nantas you may still defend if you wish to try to generate Momentum

22:15, Today: Jeddak rolled 28 using 2d20 with rolls of 12,16.  Slaver 14 vs Nantas 9/4-.
- miss!  Nantas same here

22:16, Today: Jeddak rolled 2 using 1d2 with rolls of 2.  1 - Demetrius 2 - Nantas for Slaver 15.
- Nantas it is

22:17, Today: Jeddak rolled 14 using 2d20 with rolls of 10,4.  Slaver 15 vs Nantas 9/4-
- 1 success, Nantas defend

By and large the lot is disorganized, their attack uncoordinated.

Geeez you two are lucky, Aeryn and the Tharks are getting hammered while you just feel the breeze from your opponent's whiffs.  Roll to defend vs these piddly little attacks.  Remember you can only bank as much Momentum as your lowest Attribute.

Nantas - one of the guards has blown open one of the prisoner cells.  What kind of Barsoomian does it contain?  Red, Green, Yellow, Black or White?

Finally, once you've each rolled your defenses feel free to take your next turn.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:30, Mon 07 Dec 2020.

[OOC: 12:56, Today: Nantas rolled 26 using 2d20 with rolls of 19,7.  Daring 9 Empathy 3.
Two successes?]

Nantas avoids the attack, but realises that there are just too many slavers, all behaving in dishonourable ways. This could be a good opportunity to die honourably, wielding blades in his hands, but better trying to get alive, first.
Nantas helps the his recent allies out of their trap, congratulates the Thark that had a great shot and tells them: "There are too many enemies! We need to release as many slaves as we can, while keeping the slavers at bay with your great rifles!"
Nantas identifies the closest prisoners that may become new allies and help everybody getting out of this mess alive. If they are close enough, Nantas will try releasing them.

You're being attacked by the slavers wielding swords who just ran up the stairs from the level below you.  The ones with rifle are focused on Aeryn and the Tharks.

Defend vs Melee with Daring + Passion
Defend vs Ranged with Daring + Reason

Your rolls of 19,7 vs your Daring (9) + Reason (4) = 13/4- result in 1 success, you counter the last Slaver's attack and untouched by the 3rd group of Slavers.

Did you want to roll to Defend vs the two Slavers that attacked but got 0 successes?  It's just an opportunity for you to generate Momentum at the risk of possibly rolling a Complication.

Finally my last question to you:  Nantas - one of the guards has blown open one of the prisoner cells.  What kind of Barsoomian does it contain?  Red, Green, Yellow, Black or White?
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:08, Mon 07 Dec 2020.

In reply to Nantas (msg # 45):

[OOC: sorry, I didn't understand that I was in a melee - in that case, the characteristics should be Daring 9 and Cunning 9, right?
I'm OK with defending against that two slavers that you mention.

Difficult to say what martian will exit that cell... we are in a Red Martian transport, so I wouldn't imagine that they keep a Red Martian in a cell just like a monster. White Martians are very rare away from their settlements... It could be  Yellow Martian or a Black Martian, but perhaps the one that is treated more like an area beast than a person is a big, Green Martian.]

No.  As listed under References thread:

CONFLICT ACTIONS
	ATTACKING	DEFENDING
Melee-based	Cunning + Daring	Daring + Passion
Shooting	Cunning + Reason	Daring + Empathy
Insults	Cunning + Passion or Might	Daring + Passion or Might

You're Defending against the Slaver's attack, so Daring + Passion.

As for the Martain in the cell, I'm just giving you the opportunity to help with introduction of a new character.  Slaver rolled a complication so seemed like a good opportunity for someone interesting to be in the cell.  Your choice what race they are. 
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:02, Mon 07 Dec 2020.

[OOC: then it may be a (rare) White Martian Lotharian that is using his powers of casting illusions to convince his slavers to release him...]

Demetrius ducks and weaves amidst these foes, a blur of movement...

Defend against TN 0, three successes. Pour all those Momentum into the next Defense roll, which nets a pathetic 2 successes and a complication!

Waiting to see what my complication is before taking my actions. Thinks Fast applies to the minion group that attacked me.

10:13, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 20,13,18,16,7 using 1d20,1d20,1d20,1d20,1d20 with rolls of 20,13,18,16,7.  Defending w/Momentum from prior success.
10:12, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 4,14 using 1d20,1d20 with rolls of 4,14.  Defense vs. 0 successes Daring + Reason (ThinksFast) 14/7.

The Jasoomian manages to parry the thrusts of his opponents with a single sweep of his blade....but there is a resounding THUD as his sword point buries itself in the wood of the wagon.  It feels solid and will require all your strength to free it making your next attacks difficult

Increase difficulty of attacks this round by 1 (D2 instead of D1)
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:05, Thu 10 Dec 2020.

Demetrius plants his feet and yanks the blade free; he allows the momentum to carry the blade through. This momentum drives his blade in a wide arc and cuts a bloody path through the nearby slavers!!

Spend 2 Momentum and add 1 die from Thinks Fast on His Feet; against TN of 13/6, I get 5 successes! Should be a net 3 Momentum. Damage is 2 with 2 Injuries (effects); I'll spend up to 3 Momentum to kill additional minions. Let me know if I have any Momentum left after that.

10:41, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 6,3,4,5 using 1d6,1d6,1d6,1d6 with rolls of 6,3,4,5.  Damage.
10:40, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 12,12,16 using 1d20,1d20,1d20 with rolls of 12,12,16.  Momentum and Thinks on Feet dice.
10:40, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 14 using 2d20 with rolls of 8,6.  Attack (D2): +2 Momentum +1.

[OOC: OK, let's go for this]

Cool, roll Daring + Passion twice and count your successes.

Once that's done, barring any Complications we need to discuss, you can go ahead and make your attack for this turn as well
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:18, Mon 14 Dec 2020.

In reply to Nantas (msg # 50):

[OOC: 20:50, Today: Nantas rolled 33 using 2d20 with rolls of 16,17.  Daring 9; Passion 4 first time. -> 0 successes
20:50, Today: Nantas rolled 28 using 2d20 with rolls of 16,12.  Daring 9; Passion 4 second time. -> 1 success]

[OOC: here is my attack for this turn:
20:52, Today: Nantas rolled 4 using 2d20 with rolls of 3,1.  Cunning 9; Daring 9.
4 successes?]

Okay 1 success will score a hit.  Swords do 2d6 damage; as long as you do at least 1 point you'll kill minion.

What do you want to do with the 3 extra successes?  For 1 Momentum you can kill an additional minion.

Actually, Demetrius is taking out 4 minions so maybe you just want to bank this in your pool?
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:42, Thu 17 Dec 2020.

[OOC: 22:10, Today: Nantas rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1.  sword 2 damage.
22:10, Today: Nantas rolled 2 using 1d6 with rolls of 2.  sword 1 damage.
Both swords cause damage, but I believe this is agains a single opponent (minion), correct?
Then, using the other three successes, can I hit and dispatch another opponent (minion)?]

There's nothing special about having 2 weapons in hand.  No extra attacks, no extra die unless you have a talent for that situation.

Sword does 2d6 dmg, you rolled 1 & 2 which each count as 1 pt of dmg.  2 points total = dead minion.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:28, Fri 18 Dec 2020.

While Demetrius and Nantas make short work of the groups of slavers nearby, Aeryn and the Tharks return fire against those with rifles in the cell walkway.

08:38, Today: Aeryn Arj rolled 31 using 2d20 with rolls of 20,11.  Attack Slaver with Pistol, +1D for Range, 14/4
- miss and a Complication


08:39, Today: Jeddak rolled 18 using 2d20 with rolls of 16,2.  Thark 1 shoot Slaver, +1D for Range, 9/4-.
- 2 successes

08:49, Today: Jeddak rolled 18 using 2d20 with rolls of 8,10.  Slaver Defend vs Thark 1 9/4.
- 1 success, attack will miss

08:40, Today: Jeddak rolled 20 using 2d20 with rolls of 15,5.  Thark 2 shoot Slaver, +1D for Range,  9/4-.
- miss

The trio return fire as best they are able while under a barrage from the slavers.  The distance makes it difficult and though they return fire with gusto their opponents remain untouched.

But the explosive rounds of the Barsoomian rifles are wrecking havoc upon the simple cover afforded Aeryn and the Tharks.  The crate Aeryn crouches behind suddenly explodes, sending the scout sliding across the wooden deck of the wagon and momentarily exposed.

Aeryn will be D0 to hit next Turn
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:51, Tue 22 Dec 2020.

Strewn about in the Fore of the wagon lie the bodies of your opponents while behind you Aeryn and the Tharks are in dire straits from the rifle-fire from the Slavers in Walkway 3.  Unfortunately before you can consider your next action the roar of the rifles sounds again

08:59, Today: Jeddak rolled 27 using 2d20 with rolls of 12,15.  Slaver6 vs Aeryn 9/4-.
- miss

08:59, Today: Jeddak rolled 17 using 2d20 with rolls of 2,15.  Slaver7 vs Aeryn 9/4-.
- 2 successes

09:04, Today: Jeddak rolled 33 using 3d20 with rolls of 8,16,9.  Aeryn Defend vs Slaver 7 2 success, +1 Momentum, 14/6-.
- negates extra successes but not initial D0 action, hit

09:05, Today: Jeddak rolled 6 using 2d6 with rolls of 4,2.  Slaver 7 dmg vs Aeryn.
- Aeryn takes 1 Injury


09:00, Today: Jeddak rolled 21 using 2d20 with rolls of 6,15.  Slaver 8 vs Thark 1.
- 1 success

09:08, Today: Jeddak rolled 24 using 2d20 with rolls of 8,16.  Thark 1 defend vs Slaver 8 1 success, 9/4-.
- 1 success, negated Slaver 8's success, miss


09:00, Today: Jeddak rolled 25 using 2d20 with rolls of 18,7.  Slaver 9 vs Thark 1.
- 1 success

09:09, Today: Jeddak rolled 13 using 2d20 with rolls of 9,4.  Thark 1 defend vs Slaver 9 1 success, 9/4-.
- 3 successes, negates Slaver 9s success, miss


09:00, Today: Jeddak rolled 17 using 2d20 with rolls of 11,6.  Slaver 10 vs Thark 2.
- 1 success

09:10, Today: Jeddak rolled 15 using 2d20 with rolls of 7,8.  Thark 2 defend vs Slaver 10 1 success, 9/4-.
- 2 Successes, negates Slaver 10's success, miss

Exposed Aeryn can only roll along the deck, presenting as small a target as possible.  Rounds explode around her and she feels a sting of pain along her side but there is no time to pause and examine it now.


Lose one point of saved Momentum from previous Turn.

You are still in the Fore of the wagon with Aeryn and the Tharks.  The Slavers with rifles are in Walkway 3 between cells (an adjacent zone).  You could reach them by charging up Walkway 3 using normal Movement or you could go around the Outer Walkway to Aft and then come at them from behind. You can only move 2 zones using a Movement and Conflict Action, to move an extra zone would require spending Momentum.

Declare your actions!

Are there more slavers at melee range?

Only the ones left broken and dying at your feet.

So no.

:)
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:41, Tue 22 Dec 2020.

Nantas looks around for other prisoners that can be helped to escape. If none is visible, he will lead the escape from the transport as well as he can.

Demetrius eyes the rifle-toting enemies atop the walkway. He begins running, zigging back and forth and then leaps, flipping over the railing and leading with his sword. He begins hacking madly, causing blood to fly liberally!!

As Demetrius drives his blade through his target it embeds itself in a support post; the crack of the steel resounds as his Jasoomian strength presses too hard and the blade snaps!

Okay, assuming it's just movement to get up onto the walkway while risking being shot, attack 13/6 difficulty 2. Got 4 successes for 4 damage, 2 wounds (from effects) and a Complication! If those net bonus 2 gain me extra Momentum, I spend them to kill minions.

14:55, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 2,20,3 using 1d20,1d20,1d20 with rolls of 2,20,3.  Attack: Difficulty 2, 1 Momentum.

4 Successes, so a Hit + 2 Momentum

Also you've lost your blade but there is a radium rifle at your feet now that its owner is skewered
This message was last edited by the player at 02:34, Sat 02 Jan 2021.

As Demetrius zigs and zags down Walkway 3 to engage the riflemen in melee, Aeryn and the Tharks return fire to cover his charge!

20:03, Today: Jeddak rolled 5 using 2d6 with rolls of 1,4.  Thark 2 dmg Slaver with Pistol.
- 1 dmg, dead minion

20:03, Today: Jeddak rolled 13 using 2d20 with rolls of 8,5.  Thark 2 shoot Slaver 9/4-.
- 2 successes, hit

20:02, Today: Jeddak rolled 10 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,4.  Thark 1 dmg Slaver with Pistol.
- 1 dmg + effect (1 Fear), dead minion

19:59, Today: Jeddak rolled 13 using 2d20 with rolls of 4,9.  Thark 1 shoot Slaver, +1D for Range, 9/4-.
- 2 successes, hit

19:59, Today: Aeryn Arj rolled 24 using 2d20 with rolls of 8,16.  With Blade or Bullet, use Daring, 14/6-.
- miss, needed 2 successes due to range

Aeryn returns fire over her shoulder as she seeks cover, her shots wild and without effect.  The pair of Tharks, however exhibit a deadly aim as the pair each drop one of the riflemen.

Between the 2 the Tharks have killed and the 1 that Demetrius has definitely taken out that's at least 3 of the 5 riflemnen dead.

Demetrius, if you use those 2 Momentum to kill extra minions you can eliminate the slavers entirely.

As the Jasoomian charges the walkway with his companions' radium rounds whistling by in support, a huddled figure low-crawls from the cell sprung open by the slaver's wayward fire.  The man appears similar to Demetrius but is completely bald and dresses in a simple harness.  When he manages to reach the Aft and round the corner of the walkway, he springs to his feet and starts to sprint, only to run into the immense form of Nantas.  Knocked on his backside the man stares up at the Green Man wide-eyed before cupping his hands and beseeching, "Mercy!  I am Ducet Cog and I am you servant if you will but free me from these unjust bonds!"

Nantes simply nods: "Let's release as many slaves as we can." and he moves to open the closest cage with slaves in it.

Demetrius looks down at the pile of corpses at his feet and snorts. "This is getting to be a habit," he comments. "If I ever make it back to New York, gotta remember not to get into a bar fight." He picks up the rifle and swings around, looking for any enemies to shoot while his companions free slaves.

Pleased with himself and his companion's fighting prowess, Demetrius is shocked when a ripple flows along the floor of the wagon.  There is a sudden tilt and a resounding sound of grinding, it is nearly impossible not to be thrown from your feet.  Ducet Cog slides along the floor in surprise, away from Nantas, before impacting a crate and yelping in surprise and pain.

The murmur and groans of injury and fear rise around you from those still caged.  Slowly you recognize that the sounds of combat around the wagon have also grown lower though an occasional radium round rings out.  Picking yourselves up and surveying from the height of the 3rd story you recognize that the caravan is destroyed and a swarm of green bodies now covers the smaller vehicles.  So too a wave rushes into the lowest level of the wagon, undoubtable they will work their way up to you in good time.

Friend or another foe you cannot say.  But what will you do in the moments before you find out?

We are out of combat/Turns.

Describe how you will meet these Green Men or any actions or words you have with your companions

Nantes looks at the metal of these Green Men, to understand if they are from friendly tribes or not.

Demetrius leaps through the air and lands next to Nantas, his rifle at the ready. "Oi--are these friends or foes, Nantas?"

Nantes, by the way, checks out the metal of his new allies, to understand which tribe they are from as well. Maybe the Green Men out there are the same tribe.

You easily recognize that the pair of Green Men you freed and who fought with you against the slavers are both Tharks.

Likewise you also know that the raiders who have disabled the caravan are also Tharks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:48, Wed 13 Jan 2021.

With moments now to recover you find that the injuries of your companions and new acquaintances are minor.  The pair of Tharks introduce themselves as Losa Dhamit and her companion Tal Ptomj, both are in a jovial mood after a rousing battle and the view of the continued slaughter being waged by their clan against their captors.  Nantas is certain the Green Men would enjoy slaughter of any opponent, not just those that had wronged them, but whether he shares this knowledge with the newcomer Demetrius or not is his own choice.

Ducet Cog is caught between the relief of freedom of his cell and the fear of having fallen into something much worse.  "What will the savage Green Men do with us?  Stories are ripe with the cruelty of their treatment to slaves and enemies.  With the slavers there was at least hope that I might be sold to a decent house.  But what hope have we now in the hands of the Tharks?"

Several prisoners in nearby cells appear to have come to a similar conclusion and their own moans and wails rise.  Neither Losa nor Tal assuage Ducet's fears.

Aeryn slides close and cautions, "It was fortunate that you chose to free the Tharks and that they yet live.  Losa and Tal will be in your debt and you might use that to gain our freedom."

The sounds of radium rounds and steel on steel draws closer as it also becomes fewer, confirmation that few slavers remain alive.  Soon this level of the wagon is awash with giant greenmen, many a frenzy with bloodlust, others raising happy cries to find Losa and Tal alive.  As Aeryn predicted, Losa and Tal forbid any harm to you from their tribesmen and describe your skills in swordsmanship in defeating any slaves who dared challenge you.

The Tharks warriors appear unmoved but do not threaten you further.  Instead they begin ransacking the wagon, taking slaves for themselves and leaving some still locked in their cells if they are unwanted.

"We should go," Aeryn suggests.

"Yes! Yes!" Ducet Cog agrees, "The sooner the better."  You notice he has not left Nantas' shadow since he picked himself up from the upheaval of the wagon's halt.  Apparently he had determined the safest location for the moment was with the giant green man that had freed him.

But to go implies a direction.  You are in the middle of the wasteland and all but Demetrius who is still new to Barsoom can affirm that it is days or weeks to trek to another city.  Yet you do have grateful allies so your options are not as dire as they might otherwise be.

What will you do?

Nantes warmly salutes the two Green Martians that fought besides him, then he tries remembering what other relevant places may me nearby and in the meanwhile says: "Do you still want to see how Zodanga looks like you you change your mind?"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:50, Wed 13 Jan 2021.

The red woman nods, "Zodanga seems the likely destination where Patterson was taken."

Ducet Cog raises no objection, whether because he favors Zodanga or simply desires any location not heavily populated with murderous Tharks is unclear.

Nantes tries collecting as much food and water he can from the caravan of his original captors, without taking too many risks, and leads in the direction of Zodanga, or anyway in the direction that the caravan was going.

Demtrius nods. "To Zodanga we go. Come, Nantas, I'll help carry some things."

He helps Nantas find water, in particular, and carries as much as he can find in two minutes or less, and then begins moving with the others toward the city.

You set about gathering items for your journey across the ancient sea bed of Barsoom.  Tharks are busy ransacking the caravan, some eye you with suspicion as word is slow to spread of your deeds for the tribe, but their primary focus is on slaves (and killing Warhoon, ah if only there were any here!) and there is ample provisions and equipment for the taking.

Soon you each have satchels of supplies. There are also ample swords, pistols and rifles available from dead slavers which you may choose.

Losa waves to you just as you make ready to leave the ruins of the caravan.

Please make an D1 Empathy + Passion roll

If there is anything in particular you would like name it an roll Reason + (Might or Passion), I'll decide difficulty base on item
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:29, Wed 20 Jan 2021.

[OOC: 20:38, Today: Nantas rolled 10 using 2d20 with rolls of 9,1.  Empathy 3; Passion 4.]

Nantes already picked up two swords during his escape, so he just hangs on to them.
Is there anything that looks like binoculars? they may be useful in the desert. Nantes by far prefers his swords, but he will pick up a good rifle and some ammo as well, if he can find one, as it can be useful for hunting in the desert on the way to Zodanga.

[OOC: 20:41, Today: Nantas rolled 14 using 2d20 with rolls of 9,5.  Reason 4; Might 6.]
This message was last edited by the player at 20:42, Wed 20 Jan 2021.

Demetrius takes a rifle, two swords, at least 10 shots o ammunition, at least a day's food and then loads himself up with as much water as he can carry.

19:28, Today: Demetrius Esper rolled 7,9 using 1d20,1d20 with rolls of 7,9.  Empathy+Passion 8/4.

Waving you over Losa acknowledges, "As you mean to take your leave of us know that Tal and I are in your debt.  Our Teedwar commanding the attack did state that the rifles of the upper decks held our attack at bay initially but when the guns suddenly went silent they were able to mount a fierce assault that disabled the main wagon."

Holding her hands in a manner similar to a shrug she adds, "We believe your defeat of the riflemen may have played a role in today's victory, though none can say for certain.  Still I would aid you in your journey if I may."

"See there, the pair of thoats still attached to the disabled guard wagon," Losa points to a destroyed cart which had been pulled by a pair of large, eight-legged beasts.  The creatures snorted and shook but could not free themselves from the wagon which lay on its side after suffering major damage, "The thoats of the Red Man are smaller than ours and ill favored for riding by our people though they can often be used for baggage.  Tal has claimed this pair and we offer them to you in repayment for freeing us.  It is not uncommon for slavers to being to execute their captives if it appears they will be captured.  Were it not for you we might lay dead in our cell even though our tribesmen did finally take the caravan."

As a green man Nantas is familiar with riding wild thoats which his people dominate with violence and cruelty, impressing their will upon the creatures with regular beatings.  These though are noticeably smaller than ones he is used to but not so much that he cannot ride them.  They seem less cantankerous than wild thoats yet would clearly injury or kill anyone who cannot master them.  Nantas knows he will have no trouble riding one.

The rest of your group, however, has no experience riding these beasts.  Still, they will make the trek to Zodanga much easier and faster if someone can master riding them.

If you accept the thoats each can carry 2 riders.   If Nantas rides one, who will ride with him?  Who will attempt to master the 2nd thoat?

To get the beast under control and accept its rider will require a Passion + (Empathy or Might) depending whether you will use kindness or brutality to dominate the thoat.

Nantas can assist in this test - roll 1d20

Nantas - field glasses are available but rare and highly sought after, unfortunately you do not find any during your search
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:22, Thu 21 Jan 2021.

Demetrius bows. "I am happy to accept your gift. May we fight together against a common foe again someday," he offers.

He turns to his companions. "So, anyone here good at coaxing beasts? I can beat one of these as needed, but I've never been a world-class rider."

Will ride the beast if nobody here has a higher Passion score.

"Definitely not I", Ducet Cog cringes, eying the creatures with distrust.

Aeryn tilts her head as she regards the beasts, "I'm more comfortable in a flyer than a saddle," she admits, "but I'd rather learn to ride than walk the rest of the way to Zodanga."

Change of plans, this will be an extended test!  Because I want to try this out and seems dramatic when I picture it.

The rider will need to accumulate 6 Successes to fully master the art of controlling the thoat.

D1 test, Momentum generated can either be banked or used to count toward the success threshold.

If no successes are rolled, the thoat gets an attack on its rider.

If a Complication is rolled the rider may be partially dislodged or otherwise have an increased difficulty, maybe the beast charges through the crowds or something.

Aeryn can use Passion + Empathy, 11-/5-
Thoat will resist will Passion + Cunning, 9-/4-

Do you want her to try or will Demetrius give it a go?

Either way it should be interesting :)
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:42, Fri 22 Jan 2021.

Nantas gives thanks for the gifts and the treatment just briefly bowing his head and smiling, then he gets on with the thoats and climbs on top of the closest one, trying to impose his will on the beast.

[OOC: 22:05, Today: Nantas rolled 19 using 2d20 with rolls of 18,1.  Passion 4; Might 6.]

Demetrius defers to the lovely Aeryn.

My total is a whopping 8/4, so definitely letting Aeryn give it a whirl. If I can assist somehow, though, I will.

Nantas mounts his chosen thaot with no trouble, only a pair of kicks and the beast is his to command.  Slashing the straps which tether it to the wagon he moves to the side to provide the next of his companions room to claim the remainder.

When Demetrius defers the thoat to her, a hint of a smile tugs at Aeryn's cheek but she says nothing.  She finds handfuls of the yellow moss-like vegetation growing abundantly nearby and approaches her chosen mount.  Nantas is suspect of the scout's tactic but the creature appears to calm slightly and takes large mouthfuls of the familiar foodstuff.

Climbing atop the beast, Aeryn seats herself as best she can.  She sits a moment, mentally communicating with the thoat; imparting her will to it.  Then drawing her blade, she favors her companions with a nervous smile and frees the beast as Nantas had.

16:17, Today: Aeryn Arj rolled 14 using 2d20 with rolls of 5,9.  Control thoat, Passion + Empathy, 11-/5-.
- 3 successes

16:17, Today: Jeddak rolled 23 using 2d20 with rolls of 7,16.  Thoat will resist will Passion + Cunning, 9-/4-.
- 1 success

Aeryn manages 2 successes which she'll apply towards gaining complete control of the thoat

Control progress - 2/6

The creature recognizes it is free.  It starts forward with a jerk which Aeryn is not prepared for but quickly recovers from as she begins to learn the way the creature moves.  She makes soft, cooing sounds in addition to the mental commands and pats the creature.  The thoat slows, looks to both sides, seeming unsure.

You hear mummers are realize nearby green men are pausing in their tasks to ransack the caravan.  Several point and appear to be making wagers, some laugh at the red woman's unsteady control.

Nantas if you wish to aid Aeryn it will be 1d20 against your Passion + Empathy since that's the approach Aeryn went with to control the thoat.

Regardless, what is everyone doing?

Nantes is curious to see how Aeryn manages the situation by herself. It is difficult to say if he's smiling or not, with that big tusks protruding from his mouth.

[OOC: better not... Passion and Empathy for sure are not my forte :)   ]

Totally your call.  Failing to get a success would not cause any problem....I'm not 100% sure rolling a Complication would either but it might be fun :)

[OOC: I changed my mind as I (wrongly) remembered that a failure would be an issue for the people you were trying to help, but I understand from your message that this is not the case.

Anyway
23:00, Today: Nantas rolled 17 using 1d20 with rolls of 17.  Passion 4, Empathy 3.
in this case it doesn't make any difference...]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:02, Tue 26 Jan 2021.

The red woman spends the next 10 Xat's (approximately 20 Earth minutes) getting the feel for her mount as Nantas supervises.  Once she has gained some confidence it is time to increase the pace.  Concentrating she attempts a trot around some wreckage and back again.

21:01, Today: Aeryn Arj rolled 36 using 2d20 with rolls of 17,19.  Control thoat, Passion + Empathy, 11-/5-.
- no successes, uh oh

21:02, Today: Jeddak rolled 6 using 2d20 with rolls of 5,1.  Thoat will resist will Passion + Cunning, 9-/4-.
- 3 successes, thoat will add 2 Doom

GM will spend 2 Threat to add a Complication!


Since Aeryn had no successes so the thoat gets an attack.  It will use Cunning + Passion as it demonstrates it's will is strong and will not be tamed.

21:16, Today: Jeddak rolled 22 using 2d20 with rolls of 10,12.  Thoat attack with Cunning + Passion, 9/4-.
- no successes

Aeryn resists with Darring + Passion, she is unafraid of the wild ride and the power of the beast
21:18, Today: Aeryn Arj rolled 15 using 2d20 with rolls of 12,3.  Resists with Darring + Passion, 13/5-.
- 3 successes, she'll add to her Momentum pool


With a loud bray the thoat's trot becomes and uncontrolled gallop!  Aeryn hangs on as her mount charges forward as the cries of angry Tharks rise around her along with a chorus of heartless laughs.  The scout grins widely as she mentally struggles to regain control of her thoat.

Aeryn will need 2 successes for her next test due to the Complication.

The situation threatens to become serious.  The savage green men might laugh if one of their own were trampled by an uncontrolled thoat.....OR they might become enraged that a red martian ran their brethren down?  Who can say?

Nantas perhaps you can assist and help Aeryn regain control?

Aeryn Momentum: 3
Threat Pool: 0

Nantes laughs louder than anybody else around, showing off his growing status, then he shrugs and gallops to the rescue of the damsel in distress.

[OOC: 19:05, Today: Nantas rolled 3 using 1d20 with rolls of 3.  Passion 4, Empathy 3. a good roll!]

As Tharks move quickly aside of the charing thaot Aeryn lays forward and rubs the beast above its eyes and ears.  Mentally she remains calm and wills the creature to slow.

Use 2 Momentum for Create Opportunity, add 2 d20 to roll

19:34, Today: Jeddak rolled 19 using 2d20 with rolls of 5,14.  Passion + Empathy, 11-/5-
19:34, Today: Jeddak rolled 8 using 2d20 with rolls of 2,6.  er forgot the other 2d20, Passion + Empathy, 11-/5-.
- total of 5 successes on a D2 test

19:35, Today: Jeddak rolled 22 using 2d20 with rolls of 20,2.  Thoat will resist will Passion + Cunning, 9-/4-
- thoat gets 2 successes and a Complication, it REALLY likes the gentleness of the red woman and it's mental resistance slips, it will be a D2 difficulty to resist on next test

Aeryn ends up with 3 extra success + Nantas' assistance adds 2 more for a total of 5.  Well above what is needed.  She'll apply Nantas' 2 and 2 of her own to reach full control and bank the extra Momentum.

Control progress - 6 / 6
Aeryn Momentum: 2
Doom Pool: 0

The thoat dramatically slows and finally halts.  The red woman stays where she is, coaxing and coddling the beast as she continues to establish her rapport.  The Tharks pick up their hastily dropped loot and continue about their business, a few voice their displeasure that none were maimed by the creature.

Soon the scout rises to a sitting position.  Without a word the thoat pivots and trots back to the starting location.  Over the next few xat's Aeryn directs the beast back and forth but it quickly becomes evident that the animal is hers to command.

Returning to Demetrius and Dulcet Cog Aeryn smiles from atop the thoat and asks, "Which of you will ride behind me?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:51, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

Demetrius smiles and bows slightly. "It would be my honor, lady. Allow me." He offers his hand to help her stride her beast.

"Come on! No time to rest, let's go!"