[pnpgm] Game Update #37 - File #143 - Chion meets old friend
Scott Adams
longshot at darktech.org
Sat Apr 12 09:13:04 CEST 2008
s
HT Alias/Player Character Name Type Status/Notes Sex
-- -----------------------------------------------------------------
R1 John Haight...........Arawn.............Druid .Normal/Alfar Ma
?? Chris Wells...........Ben'dar...........Warrior.Normal/Human Ma
?? Tom Corckett..........Caladan...........Wizard Normal/Human Ma
W2 Marcel Liberty........Chion.............Sailor..Normal/Human Ma
-- Tobie Bonahoom........Fremea............Sidh....NormalFaerry Fe
-- J H Hooten............Raban.Usherwood...Bard....Normal/Human..Ma
W4 Wout Broere...........Unali.............Ninja...Normal/Human Fe
R4 Alex Koponen..........Z'leyra...........Healer..Normal/Human Fe
Animals: Corona [Eagle] Z'leyra, Boyzdar [Wolf] (Strie'bog),
Game Web Site - http://www.funport.com/longshot/pbem
Public posts/actions to pnpgm at abroere.xs4all.nl (mailing list)
Private emails (not public actions) to longshot at darktech.org
Game Update #37 in sequence (file #143)
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Admin notes: None.
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[Recap]
From Ben'dar: [Re: Actions]
Ben'Dar waits until the two have finished speaking with the
party. He has nothing more to say to them, and finds their
subtle speech and their condescending appraisal of him and
his friends to be irritating.
Once the introductions are done and the two pretty little
fellows leave, Ben'Dar asks Caladan to "unmagic" Tef'wo. He
spends time walking the horse around to stretch his muscles.
He grooms the big animal and feeds him.
After he has finished that important matter, Ben'Dar hurriedly
changes into his pretty clothes. He moves awkwardly out to
the field where the dance/feast will be, trying to imitate
the mannerisms of silly nobles he has seen in the cities of
Marentia. He is obviously not enjoying the charade. He will
stay close to the others who remain at the feast. Ben'Dar has
never been one to skip out on a rowdy outdoor feast!
Ben'Dar leaves his spear, pike, and bow with Tef'wo and the
other horses. He carries only his boot-dagger and his scimitar
in their sheaths.
GM: Ack.
-------------------------------------
From Chion: [Re: Actions]
Arwan and language; Chion wished to re-learn Evlish and will
trade Katai for it. He also wished to learn any supernatural
language in exchange for his known one, but had trouble
breaching that topic with the Alfar (not knowing if he knew
any). Overall, he let it go because he knew he needed to
conserve mana.
After all is said an done, Chion will think for a bit on these
words. Has Lady Serene learned about the Egg Drop? Why the
interest in him? And did she grow up some since he has been
away. Most definately. But what does it mean, "is expecting",
and why was it left out of the message. Well, this certainly
will be interesting. 8 AM. Man. Hardly enough time to have a
proper party with this band of friends. Chion will ask if
there is any place he can go for his last night as a single
man, or if there is some need for him to be somewhere. If he
can, he will try to find someone local who he once knew and
try to find out about Lady Serene. Preferably someone not to
subserviant as to not speak their mind. Perhaps Red. No, he
wouldn't be anything other than diplomatic. Maybe Zhuo-Chan
or Yu-Hsaing? One of them might be infromative.
GM: Ack.
-------------------------------------
From Z'leyra: [Re: Actions]
To Unali, Z'leyra replies "I would be happy to sit with you.
Indeed, while I have used magic to learn the words and grammar
of your language I have not had the opportunity to listen how
the words are used in practice. Hopefully I shall learn. As
to whether Zhou's attitude comes from my being a woman, a
shaman, dressed for battle or insufficiently humble I cannot
know. Perhaps with practice I shall learn to ruffle feathers
less. I don't try to antagonize people."
She whispers "A wise man once said that specialization is for
insects...that humans should learn an adequate array of skills
to get by as well as to emphasize their strengths."
Aloud "But first, shall we go and see that the musicians are
as healthy as they might be...wouldn't want the celebrations
flawed by inadequate musicianship due to sickness, now would
we?"
After seeing (and perhaps healing) the musicians Z'leyra
will mingle and sit with Unali unless her assistance is needed.
She will tell the musicians that she is available if needed
for percussion, but that she is not familiar with the local
music, songs and dances.
GM: Ack.
-------------------------------------
From Arawn: [Re: Actions]
In regards to trading languages with Chion Arawn will accept
the trade of Elf Sidh for Katai. If Chion decides he wants
to try for Supernatural Languages and can think of how he
wants to broach the topic just let me know and we'll go
from there.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Arawn maintained his composure as Zhou and Kee reacted to his
introduction. As they make their offers and speculations Arawn
smiles modestly as he replied to their various questions.
Arawn: "Thank you but please I ask for no special treatment but
I am honored for the consideration."
Arawn was aware of Chion's reaction and wondered what it
was that made him grin. He did not wish to upstage the wizard
on his return trip home but felt good that Chion could find
some humor in the situation. Still, he was curious but he kept
his thoughts to himself and maintained his focus on Zhou and
Kee as they continued.
Arawn: "No, I do not believe I am in need of anything at the
moment but thank you for offering. As for the manor, I do not
wish to impose or be an inconvenience but if the High Elder
decides that he would wish my presence at his manor then I
humbly accept."
Arawn waited until Zhou and Kee were not looking to steal a
glance to the party. He did not mean to be treated exclusively
in regards to the others but he knew that asking for permission
for them to stay at the manor would be in poor taste under the
current situation. It would put pressure on Zhou to ask while
the others were around. Perhaps later on, if he met with the
High Elder, he may be able to procure them a place at the manor.
--------------------------------------------------------------
As they continued on their brief tour Arawn took in everything
Zhou had to say, pondering them for a moment before filing them
away for later thought. As Zhou went over the issue with past
Elves Arawn replied,
"Thank you for the insight. I do not think that situation will
be a problem with me. I have always held different views from
most of my kin and always look for an opportunity to learn,
grow, and understand others. I can only hope others will share
or respect my beliefs."
------------------------------------------------------------
When it is discovered that Chion is the one to be wed Arawn
cannot help but be aware of Chion's reaction. Apparently it is
as much a surprise to him as it is to the others. While the
others do their best to avoid laughing aloud or outright teasing
the wizard Arawn's face remains relaxed. He was aware of the
political nature of arranged marriages but was never a fan of
them. The Sidh are an impulsive people, ruled by their passions
and lusts, and though Arawn shared this quality in many ways
he was also very different from his brethren. He did not
believe in marriage but was nevertheless a hopeless romantic.
To him love was the greatest of all things but until he found
one to give his heart to he held no desire to be with a partner.
All he wished was to be free, even in love, and to him marriage
was an abhorant thing, sad in the invisible chains which bound
people together and robbed them of their freedom, whether that
freedom was given away willingly or not.
Whatever he felt he did not choose to impose it upon others.
Let them decide and learn themselves, free to make their
decisions. But in Chion's case the marriage seemed to fit into
Arawn's thinking as it appeared to be an upleasant surprise
for the eastern wizard.
------------------------------------------------------------
During the tour Arawn will take some time to keep an eye out
for a library or any other place where he can begin studies
on the information found on the scroll discovered in witches
cabin as well as look for house symbols in an effort to
identify the symbol at the bottom of the parchment. With
events going on tonight he will likely not have time for a
real search but will make a note to himself to go there when
time permits if such a place is found or inquire as to whether
there is such a place nearby. (The parchement is update 65 in
adventure 3)
GM: Ack. Good introspection comments. Wow. Thanks for the
reminder on where the symbol is. :)
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[New Stuff]
[Marqi 29, 1633TH. 1st Day of Adventure #4.
Location: High Elder's Domain, Dark Lands, North-East
corner of continent, center of Dark Lands.]
[Time: 5:40pm]
[Minutes before in the Reception Room during basic
introductions...]
[Arawn listens to Zhou's offer to stay in the manor house.]
Arawn: "Thank you but please I ask for no special treatment
but I am honored for the consideration."
[Zhou nods and asks if Arawn needs anything.]
Arawn: "No, I do not believe I am in need of anything at the
moment but thank you for offering. As for the manor, I do not
wish to impose or be an inconvenience but if the High Elder
decides that he would wish my presence at his manor then I
humbly accept."
Zhou: "He would be most displeased if you didn't stay the
night there. So yes I would presume to wish you there.
We will make arrangements."
[Arawn nods back and glances at the party testing their
reaction. This human custom of hospitality would do the
party no good to refuse an offer like this. It would bring
dishonor to Zhou and the High Elder. Arawn wonders though
if Zhou is reacting on Arawn's status igorning the fact
he is an Elf or acting on both. Likely just his status
based on Zhou's reaction to the others.]
[Zhou mentions about past Elves visiting the Lands. Arawn
replies back from their information.]
Arawn: "Thank you for the insight. I do not think that situation
will be a problem with me. I have always held different views
from most of my kin and always look for an opportunity to
learn, grow, and understand others. I can only hope others
will share or respect my beliefs."
Zhou: "I'm sure some will but others may not. I wish you
luck in your future interactions with them."
-----------------
[Time: 5:50pm]
[Z'leyra hears Unali's words on the Katai language and while
the spell Tongues is a special spell that allows one to
gain advantage in communication it does not give the subtle
cues and non-verbal things a language includes. Those
can only be taught by people. So while folks cheat to
gain the speaking language by Tongues one must know they
risk not knowing all the cues and implied communication a
language bears. Upon returning to Marentia in fact Z'leyra
learned that Jordi's diplomacy with all the Climan
prisoners, diplomats in their own right, got upset with
the diplomacy. Not from the words ppoken but by the missing
bits of integral communications between people who know
and respect one another to learn the language. Jordi had
mentioned to Balrog that he lost 2 diplomats due to this
and they left in a bitter sweet retreat from Marentia.]
[Z'leyra leans near Unali and whispers.]
Z'leyra: "I would be happy to sit with you. Indeed, while I have
used magic to learn the words and grammar of your language I
have not had the opportunity to listen how the words are used
in practice. Hopefully I shall learn. As to whether Zhou's
attitude comes from my being a woman, a shaman, dressed for
battle or insufficiently humble I cannot know. Perhaps with
practice I shall learn to ruffle feathers less. I don't try
to antagonize people. A wise man once said that specialization
is for insects...that humans should learn an adequate array
of skills to get by as well as to emphasize their strengths."
[Z'leyra then speaks louder not caring who hears her.]
Z'leyra: "But first, shall we go and see that the musicians are
as healthy as they might be...wouldn't want the celebrations
flawed by inadequate musicianship due to sickness, now would
we?"
[Kee happens to hear and speaks up.]
Kee: "The musicians are fine. The sick ones are not in this
area. You'd have to travel many miles away. If you
wish to we can arrange some food but you might miss your
audience with the High Elder tomorrow."
[As Zhou finishes his verbal tour of the Citadel the party
isn't sure why he doesn't just walk you around the place.
But it is fairly large. The open field south of the party
continues to increase in organized chaos. Tables are setup
for food. A small wooden stage is constructed with great
speed as if they've done it many times before. The bulk
of the people are citizens of the village it seems all
who have their own tasks and duties. They seem quite
happy and content a clear sign there are no slaves in this
domain. Around the perimeter of the large field simple
brass poles are setup into what looks like pre-used
holes in the ground. A group sets the poles as another
comes by with bags to hang chinese like hanging orbs,
one each, on the pole. The orbs seem to be in a organized
color for aesthetics - reds, greens, blues, yellows, oranges,
whites and purples. One person taps something against the
orbs and they brighten up quickly. Its clear they are
magical light orbs and not flame. Now with the sun low
in the sky but not quite down they aren't bright but as
the night gets darker they seem to brighten and light
up 60% of the field just from the perimeter. The other 40%
or so other light poles are setup inside the field at
strategic locations. East of the field large covered wagons
settle which will be used for supplies of food, drink and
other things used in the dance.]
[Chion continues to recover from the shock of his future
marriage. He stares at the High Elder's manor and wonders
if he'll come out of his hiding place and explain why
he trapped him. What of the Egg Drop? That mysterious object
led him thousands of miles on the object to Clima to then
join this wayward band of adventurers. All that time he
never really learned the purpose of the Egg Drop other than
a Katai heirloom of great value. Correl did warn there
would be tests. Maybe the whole mission was a test from
the Elder to see if Chion could do it. Who knows maybe
even he set the Egg Drop adrift of its home. Chion leans
on his staff as he considers all this.]
[Ben'dar waits for Zhou to finish his tour. Every minute
he gets more irritated at the Katai for his treatment
of his friends. In his homeland the man would be on
his back laid out already. This "civilized" land seems
to fight with words like cowards than with fists. A
definite weak people. Ben'dar asks about Tef'wo.]
Zhou: "Yes. The Wand of Change please?" [He holds out a
hand to Chion. Chion hands it over but almost tempted
to use the wand on the man and turn him into a frog.
Might look better.]
[Zhou asks for the stones to be put on the ground. First
is Tef'wo's stone. Zhou stands over and places his thumb
on a red rune and hid middle finger on a green gem on the
wand. He then taps the stone with the tip of the wand
twice and steps back. Five seconds later, enough time
it seems to step back and away, the stone transmutes back
into Tef'wo and saddle gear. The Horse neighs and looks
around in confusion. Ben'dar comes over and calms him.
He walks the horse off a bit and with help from Z'leyra
places the mysterious jeweled collar around his neck.]
[Zhou then one by one transmutes back the other horses and the
party's gear. The party is unsure if Zhou is a wizard
since the item may be used by non-magic users if they
know how. The party is curious if everyone in this domain
knows magic or just the top of society. Likely the cream
and select few in order to control the masses. Otherwise
if all knew magic it would be a constant battle for power
by ambitious wizards.]
[Zhou pockets the Wand of Change in his belt and approaches
Chion for any questions. Chion asks about where he might
go to spend his last night as a bachelor with his friends.
Suddenly a small red bird flies to the ground next to
Zhou. Zhou looks over and raises a arm and the bird flies
to him. Zhou then finds a small note on the bird's leg
and takes it. The bird flies east and Chion watches it.
As Zhou reads Chion sees the bird fly toward the manor
house. Zhou shows the note to Kee and both look at
each other and nod. They seem to shift feet and talk
quietly in whispers. Then Zhou steps forward.]
Zhou: "Your last night? Yes. Well..." [Suddenly the stern
face of Zhou transforms into a grin and he laughs. Then
Kee bursts out into laughter as they look at Chion.]
[Now Chion seems worried but more anger that they would laugh
at him and his last few hours as a free man. When tears
seem to form on the cheek of Zhou, Chion almost turns to
leave when Zhou places a hand on him to stop him. Zhou
then pulls back out of respect.]
Zhou: "Sorry! Your not getting married! It was a joke
he setup." [He nods to the manor house.] "He couldn't
resist the fun of the event. Lady Serene is expecting
you that is true. She wishes to see how you've grown.
But she is not to be your bride unless of course you
wish to ask her? No. The marriage is between your
master Correl and his soon to be bride Lady Zhing Yew.
Even now Correl is still in the forest foraging even
before the wedding. You know him can't get him away
from the forest when he is enthralled by new plants.
This time though we have people with him. By now they
should be dragging him back for the dance tonight.
The High Elder just wanted to see your reaction and
it was priceless!"
[Chion feels instant relief as the tension seems to fade.
A vicious smirk comes to his face. A trick? Chion
must think this isn't just the High Elder's idea but
his old master Correl himself who had a hand in it.
He was always a stern master more thinking than doing.
The pranks both did on each other like the time Correl
was first giving the basic instruction on teleport he
caused Chion to teleport into the women's bath house
in the village. As a teenager Chion didn't mind but the
angry female mob almost did him in. Of course Chion got
him back by help of another herbalist in replacing some
herb with a flower that caused purple pimples all over
Correl's face. Chion considers the marriage. Correl
was married once before but his wife died from disease
the healers couldn't cure. Chion vaguely recalls that
wife growing up. Now a widow for a decade it seems he
has found someone else. Good for him. Bad for his future
apprentices. This explains why the High Elder wanted him
to appear. Correl's finest student wouldn't show respect
by not coming even if he was 2,000 miles away. But why
bring his friends? The high Elder must still have plans
for the group.]
[Zhou smiles knowing that the last 15 minutes or so has been
tense and a shock to Chion. Zhou and Kee smiles as the
party snickers and gives slight laughs behind Chion. Chion
ignores them knowing that he'll be the butt of many future
jokes.]
Zhou: "Now that your burden is over you are free to roam the
citadel. It IS planned that Correl appear at the dance
and I'm sure he'll be glad to see you there."
[After Kee translates what has been said into Marentian
the others giggle slightly at the prank.]
[Arawn is intrigued by this custom called a prank. It
seems exclusively the haven of humans. Though Faerry
are known to be tricksters humans seem to do pranks on
a level of an art form. Elves are too stern to learn
such methods of humor. Another weird human custom to
file away in his mental cage.]
[Caladan snickers openly, while stroking the firesnake.]
Caladan: "Too bad you could've made a whole new life in
family vacations across the world!"
[Raban hears the prank and finds it in bad taste but then
again his traveling group did pranks all the time. You
couldn't go a day without some prank being done. It
was just part of the process to relieve stress.]
-----------------
[Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm]
[Zhou and Kee reminds the party they are free to roam around.
Food and lodging can be found at the tavern at the west end
of the citadel. As the party splits up some take horses
to the stables while others go on exploration runs. For
those leaving the citadel Kee gives them a pass word for
special guests just for tonight so they can enter back into the
citadel grounds. Zhou gives one final warning.]
Zhou: "That tower over there behind the High Elder's manor
is his personal tower. No one goes there or around it.
Consider 50 feet around and above it to be off limits.
Anyone near it are subject to possible defensive magic
and the guard tower nearby."
[Ben'dar checks his gear on Tef'wo and is directed to the stables
at east side of the citadel grounds. There a boy around 15
helps to remove gear, feed and water Tef'wo quality oats and
hay that looks to be enhanced for quality. The groom boy
doesn't understand Ben'dar but knows he wishes to groom Tef'wo.
So he gives him a fine brush made of the softest hair Ben'dar
has ever felt or seen. For twenty odd minutes Tef'wo is
treated like a royal horse. Ben'dar whispers to Tef'wo what
has gone on and the prank. Tef'wo breathes softly and seems
to understand the Zen'da warrior. Ben'dar explores the stables
and notices many stalls of nice riding horses but doesn't seem
to be any war mounts like he has seen in Marentia. These Katai
people are indeed weak it seems. But the quality of riding horses
are superior likely all noble mounts. He notices one that
is white with tan spots that seems to be of high value. If
only he could sell these horses he could pay for his ranch
expenses for a few weeks. The boy prevents Ben'dar from
entering the stalls and getting to the equipment lockers
so that makes Ben'dar happy to know gear will be safe.
At about 6:20 Ben'dar lightens Tef'wo's saddle load and
mounts up. He exits the stable area and begins to explore
the citadel grounds itself.
Ben'dar and Tef'wo ride around the well maintained grass
grounds of the citadel. Zhou mentioned the only place not to
go was the Wizard's Tower, so Ben'dar takes advantage of this.
Ben'dar stops near the shops of the Armorer, Blacksmith and
Bowyer watching master and apprentice working hard. Though
at sunset the Armorer and Blacksmith shops shut down likely
to keep things quiet. Ben'dar notices the bakery shop is in
full chaos as it prepares baked goods in multitudes with
looks like 12 chefs and a half dozen apprentices inside and
outside open cooking areas. Several apprentices offer
samples to Ben'dar and he is happy to take the warm fresh
bread. The Butcher shop is also busy with 3 Butcher masters
and what looks like 3 apprentices working hard to put fresh
meat on wagons to send to the field for the party. Ben'dar
is amazed to find no smell of dead or rotting animals and
figures the shop must have some magic to prevent such or
some magical disposal process? Ben'dar spends a minute or
two watching the weaponsmith shop work until it closes up
early due to noise as well. Ben'dar makes a note of where
the tavern is for later then travels to the main gate.
On the way he stops at one of the tables preparing drinks
and gets a mug of beer. At the main gate he studies the
map of the village briefly and finds its now about 6:30
soon the dance will start so little time to explore.
Ben'dar exits the citadel satisfied that the citadel could
likely hold off a force of Zen'da warriors. Of course
Zen'da do not have the money, resources or time to waste
in building such a fortified walled fortress. To the
Zen'da such a structure is cowardly since all feel fighting
in the open and direct way is the most honorable way to fight.
Ben'dar finds the lake district to be the most interesting
and rides around the north end of it. As he does he notices
a couple of families eating in picnic style and lovers
eating in quiet seclusion at the lake edge. But time flies
and Ben'dar finds its getting late. By the time Ben'dar
returns its near 7pm. As Ben'dar rides past the field many
are already there and starting to mingle. Ben'dar rides
to the tavern where Kee said his gear would be in a room.
There he changes into his nicer clothing. On the way down
Ben'dar grabs a nice beer at the bar and tries their
strange looking nuts that are good.
By the time Ben'dar arrives at the field letting a boy
lead Tef'wo back to the stables its near 7:15pm. Armed
with only a scimitar and boot dagger Ben'dar walks onto the
now noisy field. By now the twilight light of the fading
sun and the magical orb lights shine in a color mixture.
Ben'dar plays with his collar for a few seconds not so
comfortable with the new clothes. Ben'dar finds the
tables where Caladan, Chion, Unali and Z'leyra are.
They notice the clothes and the girls smile. But
Chion gives his usual smirk of acknowledgement. Caladan
gives a slight laugh at seeing Ben'dar in the nice silk
clothing. He raises a mug of beer and Ben'dar notices
the firesnake is gone.]
Caladan: "Looks like your ready to join the cream of society!
If only Farseeker and Xian could see you!" [He laughs
a bit then drinks.] "Be careful you might slide off Tef'wo
with all those silks!" [He winks.]
[For the next 30 minutes Ben'dar sits at the table and eats
and drinks from the many tables of food. He notices there
are fish, shrimp and more exotic things from the nearby
sea that Ben'dar has never seen before. There are also
many meats from boar, deer to what may be cattle steaks
even. The fruits are less numerous but there are some
and plentiful herbs and vegetables. Ben'dar enjoys the
free drinks of beer, ale and wines of all quality types.
Ben'dar at his table with Caladan notices the nobles
dancing all about or mingling and talking. He finds the
awkward dance too strict to movements not the fun fire
dances of his people. Its as if these people can't
show their emotions without breaking something. Ben'dar
tries to look for any pretty females but all seem to be
attached sadly to men already. Ben'dar starts to feel
a bit bored when he notices Kee coming with another man.]
[Ben'dar sees the man 6'10 rather tall among the Katai
who are lucky to get 6 foot. The man is also rather large
at 240 odd pounds with rippling muscles that form around
his leather tunic. The man looks to be young around 20
or 21. He is wearing Scalemail, silver armbands with
sparkling jewels and otherwise barbarian looking clothing.
At his hip a sheathed scimitar is seen. Ben'dar frowns
that if this man can get away with barbarian like clothing
why can't he? The man comes up to the table holding a
small mug of ale.]
Kee: "Ben'dar this is Novasa Sha'han of the Sarghut people
and Shadow Master."
[Kee translates what must be Ben'dar's name and title.
Novasa seems to frown. But Ben'dar knows why the Zen'da
and Sarghut aren't exactly friends. Both people fight
for many centuries. The Sarghut are a fierce fighting
force that has caused the Zen'da trouble for a long time.
Novasa seems to just stare at Ben'dar and the girls back
and forth. Kee translates Novasa's words into Marentian.]
Novasa: "You travel far from your homeland to visit us here.
I've noticed your horse. It is a quality mount and you
should be happy to have him. Of course true power comes
from other areas not just the blade and fast horse.
I hope your stay is good here. Maybe we can ride
together and have some fun." [He gives a wicked smirk that
seems to cause a shiver down Ben'dar's spine.]
[Novasa leans into Kee and whispers. Unali is closest so
happens to hear bits of it.]
Novasa: "...these people ...fight a cow..."
------
[Arawn breaks off from the group on his horse and heads to
where Zhou said there were maps, the main gate. There
four fully armed and armored guards stand by the large
pulled up portcullis. There indeed Arawn finds a painted
map on the right side of the gate showing the layout of
the citadel and town in explicit detail. One of the
guards learns he wishes to have a guided tour and signals
to a boy pruning nearby bushes. The boy dusts off and
approaches. All of about 14 he seems to know the place
well and the guard directs him to give Arawn a tour.
Obviously this guard knows little of Arawn's status.
Arawn could fetch Zhou and get a more dignified guide but
there might be merit in this boy over an adult who may
wish to hide or disclose things the lad may not. One
of the guards loans the boy a horse and he mounts up.
Arawn studies the map a bit more and notices there are
three village districts to the north where the bulk of
the population lives. A well designed mini-city it
seems or a well balanced one. The lad gives his name as
Gajinn and mentions the tour can begin at the High Elder's
manor. Arawn still studying the map notices that the
large square image of the manor on the map glows brightly.
Interesting to Arawn, he tries "tavern" and it highlight's
the tavern's location on the west side of the citadel and
map. Magical verbal command to locate a object. Very
nice for visitors. Arawn decides to ask for library but
nothing on the entire map highlights. Arawn mounts up
and begins his quickly guided tour of the citadel.
Gajinn shows him the various places and shops. Since
its after 6pm it seems most are closing up or working
hard for the field party. Arawn finds the locations
interesting but not overly fascinating. When the
boy shows him the temple, Arawn asks about the gods
worshiped.]
Gajinn: "Those things are beyond me. But I do know its
not dedicated to just one god, sir. This is used for
smaller weddings or rituals by the nobles. Each
person is allowed their own worship in their homes."
[Religious tolerance is likely done here but Arawn figures
in other domains its oriented to one person's belief's
or orientations. The tour ends as quickly as it starts
within only about 15 minutes it seems. Nothing is
really learned from Zhou's verbal tour. But from 6:15
to around 6:30 Arawn decides to tour the citadel on his
own. Aside from the Wizard's Tower there is no overt
restrictions it seems. Though Arawn notices that while
3 guards are in each sentry tower at least one constantly
watches the citadel grounds. Arawn would like to
get near the tower but knows its 50 feet restriction
is hard for reading. Of course he could read at about
70 feet but getting that close would definitely catch
the eye of guards and get back to the High Elder. It
would be unwise to offend him this early. Instead
Arawn scans the inside with his quick riding tour alone.
He notices the bright mana spots are the walls, manor,
entry gate and temple. The other shops and buildings
seem to have little or no magic readings. Arawn is
almost mentally blinded by the aura the wizard's tower
gives off. There must be hundreds of spells or objects
inside of great power. Arawn has not seen a brighter
spot in the middle world. Getting close to the walls
the wall itself has constant auras of blue and red
mana sensations likely offensive and defensive spells.
For the first time in 20 minutes Arawn tries to concentrate
on one of the walls to detect the spells and read it.
But the blue aura seems to grow more intense as he doe
and seems to diffuse the reading. Arawn confused has
never seen such a thing before except once. Growing up
his father traveled near a forest with a cottage where
a small goddess stayed. Her magical wards were numerous
and his father told him about them. But on detection
nothing could be read. Arawn's father explained she
had some strange material that blocked readings and in
some cases gave false readings. It makes sense if the
High Elder wishes to remain protected from other wizards
why not use the best natural or non-natural materials
for his walls and likely the manor itself. A clever way
for a powerful magician to balance possible threats against
him. Arawn could break through maybe the anti-spell,
anti-detect, anti-reading energy but it might drain him
down to nothing or kill him in the process. When Arawn
recalls story of Elf forests there are major wards there
from powerful ancient elves. So magic on this scale isn't
unheard of in his world.]
[Arawn notices Kee getting on a horse near the entry
gate and asks him to give him a tour of the town and
area. Kee explains he has a quick errand but he can
do so soon after. Kee and Arawn leave the citadel and
enter a well kept dirt path west then turning north
into the village itself. After entering the village
streets Kee passes a warehouse and then stops at a
shop. He dismounts and enters. Arawn only may known the
language but doesn't know how to read it. So he doesn't
know what shop it is. But from the look of the window
it seems to be a jewelry shop. Kee returns and begins
to show Arawn around. First the west and some of the
north district is looked at. Over the time Kee explains
some details of the shops and gives a brief overview.]
Kee: "The west district tends to be more affluent citizens
or masters. Though each district is designed identical
in nature all have the same style of house and street
layout. No one here has more influence of wealth or
power over the other. The north district has a lot of
the farmers for the farms up north. They are the ones
that tend to supply all of us with food. The East
district tends to have the large family groups and
apprentices. The taverns are surely filled up or
will be soon with visitors likely almost doubling our
size due to the amount of visitors."
[As the night grows on the streets are lit by torches rather
than magical orbs like in the citadel. Arawn studies the
citizens go back and forth on the streets. Many are indeed
seem to be happy and content. All are cordial and friendly
to Arawn and nod but show no deference to his unwrapped
face or status as an Elf, if they even notice in the darkness.
Kee shows his house in the west district. It is like all
the same a one story 2 bedroom place. Some houses may have
3 bedrooms depending on their family size. Arawn senses
few if minimal magic in the village. Wide spans of the
village no magic is detected other than in the deep forest
beyond the village grounds. Arawn suspects that is the
general ward that keeps the domain in perpetual spring as
others may be in snow. Occasionally magic can be detected
from people as magic users or those who may have items.
But that would make sense in this domain. Arawn figures
one out of 4 may have some magic on them or about them.
Arawn asks about a library or family house names.]
Kee: "There is no library in the village. Only a few like
those in the citadel, scribes or messengers know how to
read and write. Most wizards learn how to read and
write and have their own personal library in their homes
or place of study. There is no public library as you
may know of. I am sorry you could not visit one here.
The largest in the village is the High Elder's personal
library in the manor. But only a few are allowed access
to it. As to family houses like Katai most are house
oriented in the Dark Lands. Though not as strict or
stringent as in Katai itself. There may be a dozen
Houses on each street from the ancient Houses of Katai
but whether that family actually goes by the customs and
rules of the house is up to them. Such formal structure
may not be the top priority of most here like it is
in Katai. This is why you do not see House symbols or
names on family homes."
[Saddened by the news of no library and his search for the
strange symbol Kee and Arawn head back to the citadel
as its getting late. No visit is made to the east or
lake districts as time runes out and its already 7:30 or so.]
[Once back at the citadel Kee takes Arawn's horse to the
stables as Arawn walks to the field and dusts himself off.
Arawn notices a few hundred people have already come onto
the field and are either dancing, eating or talking in
clumps around the field. Arawn also notices armed men
obviously guards outside the field perimeter. Arawn figures
them to be guards for the nobles in the village. He sees
many of them stare at particular people. Not much of
a bodyguard if they have to travel some distance to get
to their master. But that may be how they do things here.
Arawn enters the field and tries to listen and talk briefly
to those who pass by. It is obvious most here know each
other in some fashion and treat Arawn as a stranger.
Arawn notices Raban and then others sitting down at
tables. After a half hour of talking and mingling with
others Arawn finds himself at Caladan's table and ready to
eat from the feast around 8pm.]
------
[After the verbal tour Caladan rides to the tavern and heads
inside with his bags to his room. He decides on unpacking
in the single room and taking a nap. The bed is too tempting
and he hasn't been in a bed in a long time. For an hour
he naps with his firesnake. Then little after 7pm he
casts a spell on the snake to make it sleep for a good long
time. The snake is used to such spells and its almost become
immune to them. Well rested Caladan walks back to the
field and gets some food and drink. As Caladan gets another
mug of ale he sees a man light a table candle with a quick
fire spell. This sparks Caladan's interest and watches the
man for some time. Caladan doesn't see Kee or anyone who could
translate so gets back to his table. Eventually Caladan
notices Arawn coming to join him.]
------
[After the verbal tour Fremea is distracted by the mana
auras of the citadel. Especially the burning beacon of
the wizard's tower. To a mana sensing creature it must
be seen miles away in the air if such an ability existed.
The walls and manor also glow as brightly. Fremea asks
Zhou about the help they asked of her minutes before in
the reception room. She replies she could help.]
Fremea: "It would be interesting to see what another set of
humans would need a Fae for. I would be interested in
hearing about this assistance you could use. Sure, let me
know when."
Zhou: "Yes. Let's step over here."
[Both Zhou and Fremea step away from the talking party though
Zhou doesn't speak in whispers. Anyone that wants to hear
could easily hear them talk.]
Zhou: "With your ability to fly and sense magic we could
use your help around the citadel. For security purposes
we scan the grounds twice a year. But by foot and through
hand held talismans it does take a few days. But you might
be able to do it in no time. I only ask that you fly
around the perimeter outside the walls and see if you detect
anything beyond the basic wall wards. You won't be able
to detect the specific spells in the walls due to blocking
spells. But if you simply view the wall you will get a
picture of what not to expect. Sometimes a master and his
apprentice might try to have fun and test their skills
and place things or spells around the perimeter. No one
is allowed within 20 feet of the walls but I'll notify
the guards of your flying about. They won't kill you.
But when you get near the Tower fly slow and again don't
get that close. We appreciate your help. Give me a few
minutes to notify the guards."
[Zhou raises a hand and from the field a young boy comes
running and they whisper. The boy runs off to the main
gate to notify the guard towers it seems. Maybe there
is some magical device there to notify all guard towers?
Fremea decides to walk about the grounds and give the
guards time to be warned. Walking by one shop she sees
it to be a herbalist shop. The old man is still inside
grinding some powder at the main counter. Fremea enters
and explores the shop.]
[In the first table Fremea sees jars of what is obviously
basil. Another container of Qadishi root. Fremea comes
to a black flower and tries to identify it when she is
surprised by the man coming close and gesturing to Fremea.
Fremea doesn't know Katai but from the frantic nature he
seems to treat her like they do in Marentia, as a kid.
As an annoying kid who shouldn't be in an adult place.
The man shoos Fremea outside and slams the door so fast
she barely reacts. Anger boils up but fades as she seems
used to the treatment. She decides to turn back to the
shop when the man locks the door and closes the shades.
It must be closing time as Fremea notices the shop next
door also locking up.]
[Fremea heads to the nearest wall and puts her clothing
that protects her wings in a neat pile on the ground. She
unfurls her wings and takes up and above the wall. As she
does she notices the wall is wider and looks like a walk
way for guards single file. She flies over and lands
on the other side and scans the wall. Not sure of what
spells are here she gets a general overview of what the
wall should look like. Then Fremea takes to the air and
quickly flies along the perimeter of the wall using her
ability to detect strange things. On the west and north
sides she notices the occasional citizen looking at her
in wonder but she ignores them. She also notices the
guards watching in some awe. Soon Fremea makes a full
circle of the citadel and finds nothing. She decides to
head south and explore the lake district for fun. She
loses track of time and soon the dance begins. The wards
of the forest seem to intrigue Fremea so she decides to
fly near the edge of the forest to see if there is anything
she can find out of the ordinary. For a couple miles though
she finds nothing. Ending up in the north farm land area
she decides to head back to the citadel. As she flies
she notices Corona flying nearby and both chase and play
a harmless game of tag. For the first time Corona seems
to enjoy flying with Fremea. Soon the game ends as Corona
goes to the citadel to sit on the wall and rest. ]
[Fremea decides to fly once more around the citadel. She
wants to impress the High Elder and find something to gain
his friendship. As she rounds the west and north walls
she still finds nothing out of the ordinary except the
magic that is already there. She hovers and looks at the
Wizard's tower as 2 of the guards watch her from the nearby
North-east sentry tower. She then moves on and circles around
toward the east wall. She realizes that time has flown by
and it must be near 8pm (actually about 7:55pm). She has
been flying for more than an hour. As she nears the middle
of the east wall she suddenly hears something behind her.
She looks up in time to see a form diving for her. In a flash
she sees green and red and what looks like to be a lizard
with wings? It lands on her back and claws tear at her wings
as fangs sink into her back and rip flesh doing 3 points of
damage past her elven armor. Fremea doesn't cry out but
goes spinning into the darkness...]
GM: Had to get up to around 8pm so all meet up on same timeline.
You still have your gear (bow on back) and dagger on belt.
------
[After the verbal tour Kee comes up to Raban and speaks.]
Kee: "You said you could help? Over there that man is
in charge of the entertainment. Let us go over so I
can introduce you and see what he needs help with."
[Raban grabs from his horse his pan pipe, drum and his
mandolin remains on his back. He sends the horse to
the stables for safe keeping for now. Raban and Kee
travel to the old gray haired man and Kee translates
what Raban knows and shows. The man points to the pipe
and mandolin.]
Kee: "He sees the mandolin will be of great use. The
pipe a bit later when the night grows on and folks
get a bit drunk." [He smiles.] "He says you can play
whatever you feel is right or sing. While others may
not know your language the basic use of song will
be appreciated. Let me introduce you to the others."
[Kee and the old man find the other entertainers. Two
women who play the drums in a soft tapping style. One
man who plays a silver flute. Last to be seen is
a average looking man who doesn't appear to be Katai.]
Kee: "This is Kiet he knows acrobatics well and will
demonstrate them at various times."
[Kee stands to the side in case translations are needed
for a few minutes then leaves with Arawn later.]
[Raban for the rest of the 2 hours works with the other
entertainers to trade turns in their various specialties.
Raban plays a half dozen songs with his mandolin. During
the evening he notices many cute females eye him and giggle
from afar but never approach him at the sides.]
------
[Unali mingles with the other Katai after changing at the
tavern and unpacking. As guests arrive she eats and drinks
with the other party members who are there. Then once
the music and real party begins she mingles with the other
folks. Knowing Katai itself helps to communicate. She
learns that the general makeup of the guests are about 20%
wizards and rest are free noble citizens. Most seem to
be no higher than the 2 counts she finds. Most seem to be
lower rank than Count and Baron. Most treat Unali with
welcome arms. Having been in the Marentian court to
uncover spies she has learned the art of "chit-chat"
and nameless mundane talk. Anything and everything that
breaks the ice of communication but rarely anything of
real value in conversation. It takes just 45 minutes for
her to finally learn a tidbit of what one Lady thinks of
Correl. She finds him a blowhard but knows he to be one
of the rare loyal friends. Being likely the only one of
the party to truly mingle that night she learns nothing
of value of "trouble" or danger in the area. There
are some rumors of something that may be a threat to
the domains but when Unali asks the people move on to
dance or become tight lipped. She learns it came from
the north but doesn't know the details of the rumored
threat. Most laugh off the threat as their egos get in
the way thinking the domains are invincible. Near 8pm
Unali heads to the table and sits with Ben'dar. That's
when Novasa comes over and seems to covertly insult
Ben'dar. Novasa bows to Unali and seems to look into
her eyes for a longer moment than he does Z'leyra. Z'leyra
has no clue as to why. Kee introduces her as she did.]
Kee: "This is Unali, Katai Warrior of the Shades."
[Novasa bends down and takes her hand but does not kiss it.
A custom barbarians aren't known to make unlike city
folk. He stares for a few seconds.]
Novasa: "Most pleased to meet you. Maybe we could talk
more later? Would you care to dance?"
------
[Z'leyra heads to the tavern to store her gear at the tavern.
Unsure on the safety she is shown by the tavern owner
a private locker in her room. He explains each locker is
magical and only one key exists to it. She stuffs her
satchel and greatsword inside the large locker and he hands
her the key. She locks it and freshens up a bit. She
removes her armor and adds it to the stuff. She grabs
her staff and changes into her better clothing. She
grabs her staff and heads back to the field. As guests
start to arrive she watches Raban and this other man
entertain the servants with music and acrobatics.]
[Around 6:30 Z'leyra takes a stretch break as she hears there
is a healer's and eroticist shop nearby. She walks over
there to explore the building but finds only the healer's
is open. Inside the well kept shop she finds many healing
materials. The old man running the shop notices her and
both talk about healing materials. In this land Z'leyra
finds nothing she hasn't seen before. Though she is
impressed by a set of magical bandages that seem to double
as ointment and bandages. Something she may have to
copy later for her healer's school. The man explains he
is closing up to join the party. Both walk back to the
field and he explains he does healing only for the nobles
who visit the place. The other citizens have their own
healers in the village. Z'leyra finds this kind of
healing to be rude but doesn't say it. Her school will
help all of any status level. This guy may be the High
Elder's own personal healer. She tries to assess his
skill level and finds him to be masterful but its hard
to tell without a live patient. The man joins another
female to be his wife and they go to eat. Z'leyra then
rejoins Unali for some time.]
[From 7-8pm, Z'leyra is asked twice to dance. The first
from a young 20s something man who notices her drum and
asks if she is a shaman. The two dance for 4 songs
and chat about her mostly. She learns he is a guard
officer who has dabbled in shamanic study but has no real
skill in it other than forestry. The second another
man this one in his late 30s and losing hair notices
her staff. He asks to sit and talk about the design and
she gives some info on the staff. The man also talks
to Unali for some time and all three chit-chat but learn
only that he is a wizard scholar who practices illusions.
He notices Z'leyra's necklace and asks about it as well.
He eventually asks her to dance and they continue to
dance up to near 8pm.]
------
[Chion heads to the tavern to unpack and settle in. After
the shock of his marriage not to be he freshens up and
changes into some better clothing for the dance. He
hopes to see Correl and the big man himself tonight.
Now he knows why he was needed to be here so early for
the wedding but what of this threat to the domains?
Zhou doesn't mention it at all. Of course for security
he might not even know it or want to know it. Little
after 6pm Chion gets to the field with his sais sheathed
and staff in hand. As many setup tables, lights and
musical instruments he scans the citadel. Just as he
left it so long ago. He notices a cat roaming the
grounds and wonders if its a wizard or just a plain
cat. Growing up he found that even a rock he sat on
could be a wizard punished for some minor crime or hiding
in plain site from his apprentice. While the cats seem
to be spies for the various wizards as well as the birds.
Chion knows that some wizards and as is rumored to be the
High Elder to have supernatural forces as protection or
spies. Creatures that could be invisible could be
watching him right now. Chion sighs and knows that
the rumors are there to scare apprentices into loyal
obedience. Chion watches Raban play some practice songs
with a few others. At one point Chion notices Fremea
dot the north wall and wonders what she is doing.]
[As the party starts Chion goes to eat and drink and
Joins the table where the bulk of the party sits.
After eating he mingles with the others but finds
that he doesn't recognize most of the people. In the
years since he grew up here and left on the Egg Drop
mission many have grown up around here. He recognizes
only about 20% of the people and talks to them. They
are all happy to see him return and are curious about
his past experiences. Many ask about the strange
bones on his hip but seem to ignore the ornate staff.
Around 7:30pm it seems Corell finally makes an
appearance. Chion notices him from a distance but
Corel is swamped by others so he'll have to wait
till he is more free to talk. As chion roams over
to talk to him a few minutes later a person comes
in front of him. The short 5' 8 Katai in green silks
and brown pants has a glass of wine in his hand and
a nice gold ring on one finger. From the sneer on
his face Chion smirks back on recognizing the person
in front of him.]
Zing: "Chion blades. You have finally run on home! I knew
you would return in disgrace one day." [He takes a swig
of wine and continues.] "So you've come for your master's
wedding I see?" [He uses the word master as a slight
condescending voice.] "I hear you came with friends.
They going to help you set up your mud house in the
forest to live?" [He gets within 2 feet and stares
at Chion.] "You should leave now before you disgrace
Corel and the rest. You left once with your tail
between your legs you can leave now."
[Di Zing the twerp Chion knew from childhood. The boy would
attempt to pick a fight at every chance he could. Zing
wanted to be chosen as apprentice to the renown Wizard
Mishi who knows storm powers strongly. But Chion found
out that Zing killed a bird using some early wind spell
he was attempting. That for an apprentice is against the
rules as birds could be other wizards. The brash young
apprentice Zing tried to blame Chion for the death and
only after the Truth spells were used did it come out.
Zing failed to gain his apprenticeship. Last he heard Zing
would have to apprentice in the village herbalist shop
rather than at the feet of a wizard. Of course in that
time things could've changed and he may know magic now.
Chion smirks as the one true enemy of his childhood stands
in front of him. Evil thoughts come to mind. Teleporting
100 miles out to the sea with Zing and leaving him to drown
or simply using his sai. Zing looks over to the table where
Unali, Z'leyra and Ben'dar are sitting.]
Zing: "Your friends look like you couldn't find anyone better
to defend you. The one in the funny clothes he looks like
he is Novasa's son! The female you seem to like aren't
of quality either." [He looks back at Chion and smirks.]
"Have you accomplished anything since you left aside pick
up that nice staff?"
Actions? Comments?
Next update...Monday...
GM: Language Trade - Chion/Arawn: Chion you already have
Elf Sidh and would only gain 1% from the trade. Em/2
for starting level. So still want to learn it?
Arawn you know Katai at a professional level but not
max. So you should do fine. Will assume trade was
done at Zen'da village. Chion can read your entry
in the Recap section on your offer or let me know
if he wants to learn another language or just improve
Elf Sidh by 1%.
GM: Schedule -
Currently - 8:00pm
Currently - Dance/Feast/Celebration/Reception -
Tomorrow - Wedding 8am
Tomorrow - Wedding Celebration - 10am
Tomorrow - High Elder Audience - around noon
GM: Delays. Delays. I found the FAA shut me down.
The stupid Fantasy Adventure Alliance found that
some silly connection could burn and cause problems.
So they closed me down. Go figure. Excuses.
Oh well. I was going to do more believe it or not.
But I'm past overdue. So this will be enough for now.
We have some good spots for folks to interact. If
you wish to add to events let me know! I figure
its enough reading for now over 1,000 lines. Man
I babble don't I?
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