Hazardous Company

2012-01-17T18:42:00.001+01:00

A long expected party

2011-09-23T14:45:00.005+02:00

Captain Farsig left the group behind while they were finishing their breakfast. Erleothir asked Jalfeera about Altrek and if he already returned, but she explained him that this will probably take some more time and there is no need to worry about him yet. After she finished her breakfast, Rameldin was eager to go shopping and get a nice dress for the party that evening. She asked Yesnarel, but he did not feel like spending an afternoon in the clothing shops of Kitaezi. Draug offered to join Rameldin, but she was not to eager to spend the afternoon with Draug alone. Erleothir thought it would be better to join his 2 companions into the city. Mulchanor shrugged at it, ordered another beer and he stayed at the inn with Yesnarel

Even though it was very crowded in the center of town, Rameldin quickly found a store with elegant dresses. Inside the store, Erleothir saw 2 men sitting on a stool in the corner. One looked at the floor, the other towards the ceiling and both were visibly bored. The dressing rooms at the back were occupied and Draug decided to flex in front of them. Of course the curtains were still closed, but he would be ready for the ladies. While Rameldin tried on a dress, Draug was suddenly tapped on his shoulders by one of the men. “Are you trying to seduce my wife?”, he spoke in a dark low voice. Draug looked at the man and saw he was about the same size of him. Nothing he could not handle, but Erleothir interrupted Draug before he could answer anything and guided him outside. After that, Rameldin was eager to show her new dress to Erleothir. The dress did put the accent on the right places of Rameldin and while she obviously showed the good knight her curves, Erleothir felt his knees trembling a bit. “This will be my new dress. It seems to me that you like it as well. You can look for Draug while I pay for this dress”.

Erleothir quickly went outside looking for Draug. The streets were so crowdy however that it was not easy to find him so quickly. After a while, he suddenly saw Draug amidst a group of exotic dancers who were dancing around him and filling him up with drinks. Draug looked very happy and was not eager to leave the girls. Erleothir pulled him away and while walking away, a voice was heard from behind: “What about payment?” The knights turned around. “You drank a lot little knight, so don’t think we let you leave without proper compensation.” Even though they were not as big as the men in the store, they appeared more frightening to Draug. “Well, I don’t have any money on me, but ….” SLAP, the sound of a hand on Draug’s face could be heard. “ouch, let me finish….but I’m sure Erleothir will pay for me.” Erleothir was just baffled when he heard Draug saying this. “So much for a knight’s codex”, however Rameldin was kind enough to pay the bill for Draug. Being a woman, she even managed a small discount.

The group continued walking back towards the inn, while suddenly Rameldin disappeared in the crowd. Erleothir quickly followed her and saw her going inside a post office. He followed her inside; “What are you doing here?” he asked. Rameldin just answered: “Why are you following me? You should look after Draug. Did you leave him outside?”. Erleothir felt bad about following Rameldin and went outside fast only to find Draug standing in front of a fruit stall. “Nice melons you have there, young woman!”. “I hope you’re talking about the fruit we sell!”, a dark voice was heard from the back and a big man appeared. Erleothir ran towards the stall, but when he reached Draug, he was already standing with 2 melons in his hand. “Erleothir, you know that I have no money, but can you maybe….?” Erleothir just sighed and paid the price for leaving Draug alone. The rest of the way back followed without incidents and the group arrived at the inn with plenty of time left.

Rameldin went into her room with her new dress, while Erleothir took Draug to the bar. Draug started: “Why hello dear Jalfeera, how about a …..” “NO”, interrupted Erleothir, “No alcohol for you anymore Draug.” He turned towards Jalfeera: “Can you make some special recipe to get him sober again?” After a while, Erleothir got a bottle with “Salad Bowl”. “Give that to him, that should work.” and gave a shot to Draug. He drank it up all at once and fell on the floor…unconscious.

“Let me help!”, the group suddenly heard from above the stairs. And there they saw Rameldin. She came down from her room in her new dress and attracted all eyes on her. She went to Jalfeera, asked some ingredients and brewed a potion, which she provided to Draug. Soon after that, he was on his legs, feeling splendid again. Rameldin asked: “What are you planning to do with these melons actually?” and only after that Draug realized he still had them in his hands. He gave them to Jalfeera, but she was not really impressed. Then Yesnarel came down the stairs, he was dressed in a fine cloak worthy of a prince and had a sable at his side. Rameldin tangled her arm in his and were ready to go to the central plaza to meet with Captain Farsig.

Mulchanor walked up front, followed by Rameldin and Yesnarel. Draug and Erleothir walked a bit behind them and so it looked as an official expedition of Rameldin and Yesnarel towards the central plaza. At the city gate they were stopped by a female guard. “Absolutely no weapons beyond this point!” she said while looking at Yesnarel’s sable. He answered: “I’m a prince. I do not intend to use this sable as this is just a cosmetic item to my outfit” in a high charismatic way. They were allowed to continue and soon arrived at the meeting point in town.

At the sight of Captain Farsig, Rameldin waved frantically towards him. “Juhu, Captain Farsig. Here we are. Look at my dress. Do you like it? It was a special prize, only 45 gold. Do you see the little details at chest? Do you like it?”. Captain Farsig was astonished to see the dress on Rameldin, but mostly because she clearly paid too much for this dress. “Do not get me wrong, Miss Rameldin. It looks very good on you, but I think you deserve something better.” He turned towards the group: “My dear friends, today is a day of festivities. Please, go around. Feel free to enjoy the party in town. Buy some presents from the stalls and afterwards come towards the spa. You will get a bath, massage and new clothes. I will see you at the reception tonight.” He bowed and went his own way mingling with the crowd.

After the group finished shopping and bought some nice souvenirs, they went to the spa and started relaxing. Each male adventurer was afterwards dressed in noble’s outfit in the colours of their home country. The outfit was completed with a sash and a sable. Being a dwarf, Mulchanor received a quiver with 3 throwing axes. Even though they were only cosmetic items, the dwarf saw the exquisite craftsmanship of the weapons. Rameldin got another dress and looked even more astonishing as she already did with the dress she bought earlier this morning.

At around 8 pm the group went towards the palace. Around them they saw many guests in magnificent outfits. The palace now rose up in front of them. Even though it was not very high and only had a few towers, it was still a very impressive building standing on its rock. Between the palace and the rest of the town was a cliff of around 70 meters deep and the palace was only reachable by a drawbridge. In times of war, the cliff would form a natural defense system against unwanted intruders. The adventurers arrived at the gate before the drawbridge and showed their passes allowing them to enter the palace. While walking over the bridge, they could see another little bridge on their right side below them. From that bridge, they saw the entertainers of the evening, consisting of bards, jugglers, a dancing bear and a magician. Furthermore there was a larger gate at water level where a ship might easily enter and leave the building.

The company crossed the bridge and went inside the palace. They were guided through some corridors and arrived in one of the patio of the palace. From there they entered a huge double door and into a ballroom, which was decorated for the festivities of the evening. Many guests already arrived inside and among them they also saw several palace guards. Most in white/grey outfits, but also some wearing either blue, red or green armor. On the east side of the room, you could see through the windows a very large balcony with a beautiful view of the city from above. A large table was built up in front of it with all kinds of foods and beverages. Also there was an ice sculpture representing a ship. Yesnarel checked the details of the ship and could see there were neither masts nor sails. It looked very sleek and aerodynamic. The only thing that did not quite fit was a small hut at the stern of the ship.

Captain Farsig joined the group: “Ah, I see you have made it inside and if I may say so; you look splendid tonight and perfect for the occasion. And my dear Rameldin, you look splendid in your new outfit. Please allow a dance with me later this evening.” Rameldin happily accepted the offer. Mulchanor then asked: “We were admiring the ship on the buffet. Can you tell us some more about it?” Rameldin added: “Yes, for example, what’s the name of the ship?” “It’s a prototype for the new battle ship for Kitaezi.” was the answer of Captain Farsig. “It’s details are currently very secret and only on a need-to-know-basis and you don’t need to know. In case you want more information, you should ask the Commanders. But they will talk about it during the evening, I guess” He slipped a little note to one of the servants in the room, who then knocked on the floor with a big staff. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I kindly ask for your attention. May I introduce to you … Journeyman Prince Yesnarel of Valerion accompanied by the beautiful Miss Rameldin. Also we have more visitors from abroad. Knight-Aspirant Draug Ohtar from the republic of Palmyrion, Knight-Warrior Erleothir, son of Leobard from the Sommerlund realm and Mercenary-Sergeant Mulchanor from the dwarven kingdom of Bor.” All listeners were in awe and the group greeted each of them in their own way.

Rameldin asked Yesnarel for a dance, but he was not very willing to stay with her and refused her offer, much to the confusion of some people present in the room. However Captain Farsig still had some time available and was happy to dance with her. Draug took the opportunity to flirt with the attendees and Mulchanor enjoyed the food and beer of the buffet. Then suddenly a man walked up towards Yesnarel and Erleothir and talked softly, making sure nobody else could hear it. “Good evening Prince Yesnarel. I know you’re not here only to enjoy the party” and he added a much-saying glance to him. “My name is Counselor Sitrik. I see you have been admiring the prototype of the ship at the buffet. As you know, this ship is a threat to our cause. Long have we managed to delay its accomplishment, but now they have found the last piece of the puzzle. We may not allow this ship to sail out tomorrow. You MUST make sure the prototype of the ship fails and secure the plans of the ship to the Crystal Star Guild of Toran.” Before anyone could answer, the Counselor already walked away. Yesnarel and Erleothir looked at each other with a questioning face. Rameldin, who saw this happening walked towards the two with Captain Farsig at her side. “Ah, I see you have met one of the Summerlund Ambassadors. You must excuse him, he is rather ... peculiar.” He continued: “Anyway, where is the rest of your group? I think it is time I introduce you to the Commanders and Magistrate.” Mulchanor was quickly found at the buffet, having another beer and enjoying some meat. To find Draug was more difficult, until Erleothir heard a familiar sound. SLAP, another female hand made contact with Draug’s face in a rather unfortunate way for the knight. Erleothir guided Draug to the rest of the group and with Captain Farsig they went towards the table with the officials on the west side of the room.

The first Commander sitting at the left side of the table was Commander Shanxi, the person for whom this whole event has been organized. He was sitting in front of a yellow flag with a book symbol. He looked very old and counted even more years, he appeared rather senile and some mucus dropped out of his mouth. When he was introduced to the group, Erleothir sensed there was something odd about him, but he could not tell what it was. The second Commander was Qwidas, sitting in front of a green flag with dunes and camels. He was in his 50s, had a darker skin than the rest and looked very jovial. His face was round and he was in a very good mood, especially when he saw Rameldin. The third person on the table was introduced as Commander Sintar, sitting in front of a blue flag with a ship. Draug immediately recognized the flag, as he bought a handkerchief with the same motive while he was on the market before. Sintar was in his 40s, clean shaved, perfectly dressed and acting very straight-forward. The last person on the table was magistrate Barif of Kitaezi. He looked totally transparent, a face you would easily forget and absolutely no charisma. A painful silence fell during his introduction.

After the Commanders were introduced, Rameldin took Erleothir by her side. “We must talk with them separately and see what information about the ship we can get from each other.” Erleothir nodded: “They will surely not talk as long as they are together.” After some discussion, they decided that Draug and Yesnarel would talk with Sintar. Since Draug picked a handkerchief with the same symbol as the flag of Sintar, he would maybe find a way to ease him up a bit. Rameldin would use her female talents and dance with Qwidas, hoping to get more info. And since Erleothir sensed that something’s peculiar about Shanxi, he and Mulchanor would have a chat with him. However before they had the chance return to the table, Barif stood up and asked for everybody’s attention.

“Dear ..euh… inhabitants of our .. quite nice empire of … Shadaki!” he started. It was immediately clear that he was not a great speaker. “I have some things, euh, presents I would like to show you, because today, Friday, is a special day. It’s the 13^th, hehe, let’s hope nothing bad happens, knock on wood everybody, haha.” A long silence was heard and in the background was somebody coughing. “Euhh…to continue, ahum, on the drinks-table is a statue of ice-cream, no, just ice, hehe….anyway, it represents a new prototype of an even newer ship. This is so aerodynamic and sleek as a katana. You might say, if this katana was our ship, it would be….. ah euh…a very good katana.” Commander Shanxi started talking: “Thank you for your kind words”. While he slowly stood up, the attendees were visibly glad that the Magistrate was interrupted. “Today is indeed a special day. My work has finally come to finish. This ship will represent the power and strength of Shadaki. Long did it take to accomplish my plans, but thanks to Commander Qwidas, who found the last missing piece of the puzzle and thanks to Commander Sintar overseeing the construction of the Prototype in the Shipyard. I also want to congratulate Captain Farsig, as he is chosen to steer this new prototype tomorrow. Now we will very soon be able to ….”

While Shanxi was talking, Yesnarel and Draug felt quite odd and uncomfortable, but also captivated by the words of the Commander. Erleothir suddenly sensed what he suspected earlier at the introduction of Shanxi. This Commander is not senile, he is far from it. As a matter of fact, even though his speech was of questionable ethical and political content, he seemed to be using some kind of spell to keep his audience captivated by his speech. Erleothir whispered to Yesnarel to make him aware of this, but he was too much under his spell and did not have ears for Erleothir’s words. Erleothir could not convince him, but luckily for the knight, there was no need to do that. The Commanders Qwidas and Sintar saw what was happening and interrupted Shanxi. “Thank you for your kind words, Commander Shanxi. We could not have managed without you. Please take your seat and enjoy the rest of the party”.

After the speech of Shanxi, the other two Commanders walked up front of the table and faced Shanxi. Their gestures were wild. Clearly they were not too happy with all the information that the old man provided. During this talk, Captain Farsig came back to the adventurers. “Oh Captain Farsig” Rameldin started, “I think congratulations are appropriate on your position to steer the prototype.” “Well, thank you Miss Rameldin” he answered. She then continued: “Can you show us the new ship you will be piloting? I’m eager to see the magnificent craftsmanship of Shadaki since I was a little girl. I’m sure a man in your position can make this possible.” “Sorry, but no can do”, denied Captain Farsig. “This is a state secret military project and nobody is allowed to see it yet. Anyway, I actually came to you because I wanted to bring one of you to the prisons and look for Alast. Wasn’t that the whole purpose of tonight?” Erleothir answered: “Indeed that was our original intention. Please allow me to go down with you.” and Captain Farsig and Erleothir went to the prisons. While Erleothir was gone with Captain Farsig, Yesnarel surprisingly asked Rameldin to dance. Mulchanor went back to the buffet and Draug was on his way mingling with the ladies in the room.

Downstairs at the prisons, Captain Farsig showed his bracelet to one of the guards, who provided him access subsequently. They spoke with the supervisor and asked about Alast. “Alast, you say? Hmm…young fellow, likes to backstab his food? Yes, I remember him. He has been brought to the shipyards.” Erleothir then asked if it is possible to see him. “I’m sorry, but nobody is allowed to go to the shipyards unless access has been granted by one of the commanders. But this might interest you; because of the festivities we have transferred all prisoners to the shipyards. But this fellow, Alast, has been transferred one day before the rest. I’m sorry, but that is all I can do for you.”

Erleothir was rather disappointed not to meet with Alast and not even to get more information about his whereabouts. He went heavy-headed in the palace ballroom again to meet with the rest of the group. Yesnarel just finished dancing with Rameldin and Mulchanor joined them as well, well fed and with a glass of ale in his hand. “Has anybody seen Draug?”, Captain Farsig wanted to know. Erleothir expected to hear a SLAP somewhere in the room, but to his surprise he saw Draug coming towards them with an up-pace walk. “Ah Draug, there you are again. Any luck with the ladies?” Yesnarel wanted to know. “Please, you have to help me!” Draug started rather embarrassed, “All night I was asking some women for a dance, but without much luck. Then I did find a lady and she was quite eager to join me on the dance floor. All went well and we danced the stars from heaven. Then we went to the balcony and enjoyed the view over the city. And just before we kissed, I suddenly see this huge Adam’s apple!” The rest could not help, but laughed out loud at Draug’s luck. Captain Farsig was most amused by the knight. “Is that the way of the Palmyrion?” he asked in an ironic way.

He then continued: “I’m sorry I could not be of more help to find your friend Alast. I do hope your ways will cross soon. Maybe you might have luck asking the authorisation to go to the shipyard to one of the commanders.” he nodded at the group at the other end of the room and they were still obviously having an agitated discussion. For some reason the magistrate had stood up and was joining the three commanders and it was obvious that he was as welcome as a hair on a bowl of soup. Farsig sighed at this view and turned back to the company with the look of someone who is about to ask an embarrassing and maybe not politically well-seen question. “There is one other question I would like to ask all of you. What exactly do you think of Commander……” he was suddenly interrupted by a loud GROOOWWLLLL. Everybody turned towards the entertainers section. The dancing bear broke loose and was running wildly towards the table with the officials. Yesnarel used a slow-motion spell on the bear, but it was too late. The bear was already too close to the table. Barif looked shocked, stumbled some more words: “Oh, a .. euhm … bear”. The bear jumped towards the Magistrate, grabbing his claws around him and they both fell through the window and into the 70 meter deep chasm. After that, everything went very fast. Commander Shanxi jumped up and kicked the table forward providing him with cover. Clearly he was stronger and more agile than he appeared and not at all senile as he pretended to be. Qwidas took his 2 handed axe and Sintar picked up his sword. The three commanders were standing in front of each other threatening with their weapons. At the same time, all the guards who were dressed in the colors blue, red or green in the room unsheathed their swords ready to attack.

Then, after that second of frozen terror …… Panic amongst the guests!

At the sign of the Broken Mast

2011-08-18T22:55:00.017+02:00

Evening started in Kitaesi and the sun was not up high in the sky anymore. Still the air felt heavy and it was difficult to breath in these conditions. Sweat pearls ran on the face of the group of adventurers while they made their way through the Brackwaters, the slums of Kitaesi. Toxif, the big fat guy who introduced himself as a friend of Alast, was leading the way. While on their way, the group looked around and saw the poor conditions the inhabitants had to cope with. It looked like as if a big hurricane picked up some houses, wood from the forest, stones from masonry, and some occasional people of Magnamund to dump it all here. The inhabitants did not seem to bother much however as they made the best of it. The group saw some children playing around and felt how the eyes of the inhabitants followed them from the houses’ – or wooden constructions to be honest – windows as they went on walking through the puddles.

Rameldin wanted to make sure her skirt didn’t get dirty and lifted it up a bit. Draug, who was walking behind her, made an attempt to see what she was wearing underneath. The sight must have delighted him, as the reflection of a water puddle caused a smile on Draug’s face. Rameldin – unaware of this – saw that Toxif gestured to some of the playing children, which stopped them immediately and one of them ran off. She asked Yesnarel, who also saw this happening, if Toxif could be trusted. “Maybe they are setting up a trap for us” she said worried. “Meh, don’t worry. They are only children. He probably goes to the inn to clean up the place for us.” was Yesnarel’s answer. What he did not know yet was how right he actually was about this. The group continued walking up the hill and after they reached the highest point, they could see where they were heading.

The Broken Mast: it was clear how the inn got its name. 200 meters ahead, they saw 2 houses next to one another and, in the middle, a big ship. It looked like as if that previously mentioned hurricane brought along a ship as well and planted it here. In the middle of it was the mast going up in the air for about 4 meters, where it broke and the rest fell on the house on the left, creating a little pathway. At the entrance, a woman with beautiful black hair could be seen. The little child that ran away before could now be seen again running toward her and he whispered something in her ear, before running away again into one of the houses. The girl looked at the group and walked inside. Still far away, around 150 meters, the group heard a woman shouting and then the rumble of a fight. Erleothir looked at Draug who nodded and both nicked their head towards the inn. Without saying a word, the knights picked up the pace. Then from one of the windows, a stool was thrown out, closely followed by a man who came through the wall right next to the window. Then, from the other side of the door, another man got thrown out. Draug and Erleothir now lowered their pace again, not sure what to think of it. Through the door, they saw a third man going away from the inn involuntarily. The girl walked outside, getting rid of the dust from her dress and beckoned the group towards her. Rameldin started ahead of the group stating that she would handle this and leaving no time to her team members to react.

Now only a few meters away from the inn, the group saw a shadow rising from behind the girl. Almost not able to walk through the door, a big man – he was easily 2x2 meters – came from inside the inn. Just as Erleothir was about to warn the girl from the danger, she put her hand on his cheek as for a “thank you for the job well done”. The big guy then picked up the three men lying outside and walked away with them.

“Welcome at the Broken Mast, fair travelers, the best inn you could ever imagine……..in the Brackwaters.” The girl started. “My name is Jalfeera and I’m the 2^nd in command. My boss should be coming in a few moments.”

Rameldin answered on behalf of the adventurers:

“Thank you for your kind words and the efforts you’ve already done to welcome us. My name is Rameldin and let me introduce my fellow companions.”

“Sure”, Jalfeera continued, “but let’s go inside first. Toxif, thank you for your services. You are dismissed for today.” and she gestured the group inside.

The interior was rather small. Inside the inn were 3 tables with seats for 4 persons and a bar where another 7 could take place. In the middle, you could see the mast going up in the air for a few meters, before it went further to the first floor were the rooms probably were and at the front of the ship was the statue of a naked woman, although it was on the inside and not on the outside anymore as one would expect. One of the walls now showed a gaping hole, rest of its use as an exit just a few minutes ago. A window was broken (this also appeared a few minutes ago), but for the rest the place looked very good. It was indeed one of the best inns you could ever imagine……..in the Brackwaters. The group sat at the bar and Rameldin did the introductions.

“And who is your boss and where is he?” she finally asked.

“ALTREK!,” shouted Jalfeera, answering the group and calling her boss in the same time. “His name is Altrek Nasir, just a good friend of mine. Not my boss, boyfriend or other relation”, as Rameldin already started to ask the whole family history of them. “I’m sure you are all thirsty; let me provide you with a drink until ALTREK! come down. The first one is on the house.”

They all took a beer and, to the surprise of Erleothir, it was not only less strong than the Bor beer, but also actually refreshing and cold. While Draug unsuccessfully flirted with Jalfeera, the group suddenly heard a voice from behind.

“Finally, the adventurers Alast talked about have arrived. I’m pleased to meet you” he said while looking at all of them. “My name is Altrek Nasir and I’m ….”

He stopped in the middle of his sentence when he eyed Draug. The room suddenly turned dark. It was as if the room reflected the mood of Altrek, but when the light came back again, Erleothir saw what the real cause was: the big guy who threw the 3 men out earlier had come back and was blocking the light from the entrance.

“Dahut”, Jalfeera started “repair the window and the wall behind you and please clean up the place a bit before going to bed.”

Altrek eyes did not leave the group while this happened. “Alast said that I could expect 5 persons: 2 dwarves and 3 humans. My eyes do see 5 persons indeed, but only one dwarf and four humans.”

He stepped forward towards Draug.

Yesnarel must have known what Altrek was thinking for he simply said: “He is trustworthy”.

Draug was also very surprised to hear the name Alast and it was up to Erleothir to explain at best who they were to Altrek and Draug. Rameldin did not really help when she stated that the group killed her mother and she joined them for that reason. Erleothir had a hard time explaining it all, but he answered all questions as well as possible. After Altrek was sufficiently informed about the group, he simply said: “follow me downstairs” as he walked towards the statue. He pressed on the bellybutton (a nipple would be too easy to guess) and a very narrow stairway, hardly wide enough for a person to fit, opened up in front of them.

The group followed Altrek down in the cellar of the Broken Mast. This room was at least twice as big as the inn itself and filled with crates, weapon racks full of swords and halberds, and several racks full of armors. At the back of the room was a little river and in the middle a big cannon. Erleothir inspected the crates a little closer and saw a seal, which was very familiar to him. These were crates from Shotia, or actually, these were crates that Erleothir and Alast loaded on board of a ship in Shotia. Erleothir just realized that his job in the first week of Shotia was smuggling out weapons.

“What is going on here? Speak swiftly!” Erleothir said in a harsh tone.

Altrek started to explain: “What you see here is for the upcoming change in Kitaesi. For several months we have been gathering weaponry to help us start a revolution.”

Yesnarel knew of the history of Shadaki and he explained to the group that the people of Kitaesi had been occupied for over four generations.

“That is true” Altrek continued “but we are going to take back what is rightfully ours. Most people in the city are not fond of this idea and we must be very careful with whom we speak. They are currently in a very good position which they most likely are not willing to lose. However most of the people, especially those living in the Brackwaters, do not have any privileges. Can we count on your help?”

Erleothir said: “You say that you must be very careful with whom you speak, yet you seem to trust us easily as companions from Alast and even show us your secret lair of weapons. How would you know that we won’t turn you in to the rulers of Kitaesi? Not only is Kitaesi on the threshold of a change, so is the whole of Magnamund, for good or for worse. But if you seek our help in freeing your people from the crutches of your oppressors, I feel that we must do so. However choose your comrades most carefully”.

Altrek put a smile on his face and guided the group upstairs again. “Come, my friends, you must eat and in the meantime I’ll explain our plan.”

The group sat at the table and Altrek was happy to have an audience willing to hear him out.

“You are currently located in the Broken Mast, which is – was – the second ship of Captain Farsig. He is the one who is currently celebrated as part of the festivities of Kitaesi. I’m sure he will pay us a visit tomorrow morning as this is his second home. The big fest is of course for Commander Shanxi who celebrates his 90^th anniversary serving the army.”

Rameldin was intrigued by all this, but had a simple question, which was probably on everybody’s mind: “Where is Alast?”

Altrek provided them with a letter. It read:

Hello my friends,

If you read this, it means I have been arrested. Do you remember the Blue stone that we found in Boari? Well, I have heard of another stone that commander Qwidas found in the Sadi Desert. It is yellow and it also glows. Some of the soldiers that were part of the expedition to bring it back to Kitaesi are already dead. I could be wrong, but I think it’s a piece of our puzzle. They are all very secretive about it but I am sure it will go public on Commander Shanxi’s Anniversary Party. Maybe you will be able to find out more than I could, and that Altrek does not start his revolution too early. Let’s wish us all most of luck.

Alast

PS: If you could rescue me along the way, I’ll be very grateful. Seriously!

The news of Alast being held captive shocked the group, but Altrek suggested that he was arrested on purpose.

“Alast must not be underestimated in his actions, because he must have got a good reason for all.”

To be honest, that opinion wasn’t shared by the group as they remembered him taking a shit outside of the window of the Kilitanin house in Kalte. That and also the time when he cut a finger from one of his first kills, only to put it in his backpack where it ultimately rotted away along with most of his food. Anyway, the group found out that there was another key in the city and Alast knew about it. That was what was important. But how would they get there unnoticed?

Then Altrek continued: “We are currently 'ruled' by magistrate Barif, a good-for-nothing, incapable leader. He is the last in line of his family. When he dies, the 3 commanders of the army, Shanxi, Qwidas and Sintar, will probably do anything to take his place, each with their own personal army. They will fight each other to death, not caring about any collateral damage, causing thousands to get killed in the process and the commander, who will win, will still continue to oppress us. That’s not an option. We must wait for the festivities to end so the three commanders are gone. Then we can overthrow the magistrate and I will take over his place and control the palace, before the others have time to react. Tonight I will contact the field workers from the North and ask for their support. I suggest you take a good night’s rest and speak with Captain Farsig tomorrow. He might help you get into the palace and rescue your friend.”

Yesnarel suggested wearing the sabers he saw in the cellar. That way, they would all be able to present themselves as officials from their respective countries and convince Captain Farsig to take them inside the palace. “Aah, a splendid plan, young Yesnarel. Since I expect a fight coming up, I’ll provide you each with 2 potions of Laumpsur as you will need them. Now if you excuse me, I must attend my secret meeting with the field workers from the North. Just don't do anything stupid in the meantime.”

Rameldin was very sad that she could not go to the party, because she really wanted to go out dancing. However Erleothir offered to bring the party to her since she wouldn’t be able to go. He asked Mulchanor to sing a merry song, while he invited Rameldin for a dance. The two danced through the Broken Mast and Rameldin got caught in the blue eyes of the knight. “Trust me”, he said to her in a low comfortable voice and Rameldin knees started to shiver. The knight truly was charismatic and he managed to convey his confidence and appease her fears. After the dance, he guided the young lady to her room and came back alone. The others, especially Draug, looked at him with a questioning face.

“Back so soon?” asked Draug.

Erleothir answered in a simple tone: “I just thought it would be better for her to go to bed instead of going into the city. And I still have a girl waiting for me out there.”

They quietly finished their drinks and went to bed soon after that.

13th January 5001

Rameldin was the first to be wake up the following morning and, while the rest of the group was still sleeping, she came downstairs to the main room and there found Captain Farsig. In a bold move, she took a chair and sat right next to him, starting only then with an introduction. They chatted alone for a while and the rest of the group woke up slowly. Yesnarel was deep asleep and Mulchanor didn’t manage his efforts to wake him up. He was himself pretty tired, having not slept properly. Jalfeera’s room was right next to his and she quite obviously didn’t spend the night alone. Unfortunately for Mulchanor, the bed was placed against his. The men entered the room and saw Rameldin sitting next to a man they assumed was Captain Farsig. Rameldin waved frantically to them: “Helloooooo, over here!” she shouted although the room was completely empty. She had allready been chatting with him for at least half an hour

All sat down, their back straight, eager to impress and please Captain Farsig. In all their eagerness, they managed to bring up each and every flaw or weakness of Rameldin’s explanations. When Farsig was intently intrigued in the odd group and clearly trying to understand who they were and what their obejective was, they each in turn stuttered or brought unfinished sentences, vague justifications of their presence in Kitaesi.

Rameldin smartly pointed out that Yesnarel was a prince and Draug jumped on the occasion to complete that he was his bodyguard. Never mind that Yesnarel is from from Valerion and Draug from Palmyrion. Thankfully for Erleothir, he could skip the part of Draug being a knight already when he himself was one as well. Mulchanor was a dwarf and that was enough in itself, his stature and confidence spoke for him.

In the end, Farsig could be seen smiling - or grinning - a few times and whether he just wanted to thank them for the entertaining breakfast, whether he acknowledged their worth or whether he had a calendar on his own; all what matters is that he allowed them to accompany him to the palace.

"You seem to be a bunch of entertaining fellows and I'm sure you would be a nice addition to the celebration tonight. You see, we are eager to show the world that we are far from being a bunch of uncivilized and ruthless pirates bent on.... domination of the sees. There will be plenty of officials tonight and to be honest, me bringing guests from abroad will surely interest the magistrate and the commanders. While this gives you the occasion to have a look in our Palace. I will also see what I can do to find if your friend Alast is kept there for any reason. I think this is a excellent situation were everyone can only win from each other..."

Giving them free time until noon, with the intend on meeting again at the central plaza, he stood and bid his good bye for the morning, before leaving the inn, he turned his head a little and made a sign to the barmaid, who could be seen smiling in reply.

Triumphant Arrival

2011-07-23T12:11:00.013+02:00

After Gustavius’ departure, the group settled for 10 long days of travel. Keeping them all busy wasn’t an easy task since such professional adventurers were certainly not used to staying on the side.
Erleothir however seemed to be enjoying the time alone, the calm and security of the ship, the silence… knock, knock, knock. His meditation was softly interrupted. “Who is there?”

“It’s Rameldin, may I come in?”
Erleothir reluctantly opened the door, now really wasn’t the time to discuss and he knew how talkative Rameldin could be. Not that day though, they went for a walk on the deck and noticing his darken mood, she restrained a little and tried to get him to talk about his worries. She couldn’t get him to talk much as he insisted on waiting for a group discussion he would lead before arriving to Kitaesi. He asked her to be patient and, feeling better knowing he wasn’t upset with her, Rameldin followed his advice and went looking for another friend to talk to.
Yesnarel was a bad pick being all busy at his own project: learning from Captain Padoka. The young mage did his best to get closer to the man and learn something from his experience. The only thing he got in the end was some serious daily hang-overs. He wasn’t used to such an intense level of studying.

Far from that agitation, Mulchanor spent most of his days in the forge preparing some grenades for future battles. He was humming happy dwarves tunes as doing so, his mood greatly improved since his last talk with Jack who picked up his old gun back.

Sighing at the thought that Alast was now gone, Rameldin suddenly remembered the new addition to the group: Draugh. For sure he was bored too and would appreciate some company!

She found him in his room, recovering from a strong headache, reward of his failed attempt at keeping up with the drinking crew. He seemed rather glad to have her visit and made some room for her on his bed. Seated next to one another, Rameldin started asking her many questions about all and everything and mostly about their fellow companions. There was some tension at first in the room, nothing aggressive, more like a challenging atmosphere of seduction between the two. Despite his young years Draugh was trying his best to seem older and impress the lady, while she on the contrary was doing her best to get him to relax, at ease, to speak. She clearly won the round when she offered to massage him in order to relieve him from his persistent headache.
“But tell me, what do you think of the people we travel with?”
“I don't know, since I joined your group we tortured two guys, Yesnarel electrocuted one and the other died, Gustavius put you into prison, Erleothir screamed a lot, then there is that other dwarf who's sleeping all the time and I have no clue who's steering that ship”
The massage started innocently on the shoulders and moved slowly to his temples as the conversation went on. Both were getting to know one another but the conversation came to a halt when Draugh fell sound asleep on his bench. Rameldin looked right and left and mentally shrugged her shoulders as she made herself a place at his side for a nap.

12th January 5001
The trip was rather uneventful and all were glad to meet in the kitchen one fine day in the early afternoon. This meant only one thing: Kitaesi was very close now and Erleothir was going to talk. The speech was inspirational as well as scary for the less experienced persons of the group. There would be no way back, they were in for a fight against the Dark Lords and now all knew the war would start once all the keys and safes would be found.
As the meeting was coming to an end, they heard a commotion on the deck and all followed the crew. They were surprised by the sight. A larger mountain range with gently rising slopes was facing them and more surprisingly: Padoka woke up and decided he'll take care of the maneuvres.

The Captain emerged from his cabin, stumbling as usual. Helped by Jack, he climbed to the steering wheel and intended to drive the ship. On the deck, there were gasps and Rameldin clinged to the closest stable element she could find and that turned out to be Mulchanor’s arm. He shook his arm free, without any compassion for her fear and stepped forward, to the railing. Rameldin knelt on the ground, covering her head of her hands. Though some of her companions were mildly worried about Captain Padoka’s competence in driving before 20h, the crew seemed confident. Padoka moved some of the stones and crystals on the steering board and the ship accelerated sensibly and while he was making no attempts to lift the ship the treetops of the scarce pines on the ground were coming closer and closer. Soon enough they were flying at the same height as the trees, flocks of birds flying away to the side while angrily bleeping. the yellowish stony ground burned by the sun was uncomfortably near and the horizon had vanished. And suddenly, as the mountain summit was coming always closer and closer, the ship lifted up eversoslightly, brushing the line and crossing onto water 200 meters below them. The view was breathtaking.

They had just strifed the top of what was a gigantic cliff over the west side of the Bay of Kitaesi, and were now facing almost the entirety of the bay. To their right, towards the south the ground was getting more and more accidented and the cliffs on either side of the bay were more hanging over the water with strange formations of spikes looking like claws emerging from the ground. Behind the horizon to the south they knew the bay opened into the ocean. in front of them they could see the equally shaped cliffs forming the eastern wall of the bay in the warm afternoon sun. As they looked down upon the deep blue water they soon noticed a large warship going full sails toward the city of Kitaesi, their final destination for this journey.

Kitaesi was in the most northern part of the bay. One of the biggest city of the Shadakine Empire. Thousands of houses and buildings behind heavy fortifications, all in a Moorish style, some buildings towering a bit higher than others but never more than five floors, but the most fascinating thing in the city was a large sugar loaf on top of which a large palace of white an red stones laid. as thy looked closer at this strange mountain in the middle of the sea of buildings they noticed that it had been modified slightly to make the palace an untakable fortress. it seemed that the engineers had managed to divert th river flowing through the city to flow through the sugar loaf itself after carving a canyon on one side of that massive rock, surely a herculean work at the time. much less breathtaking was a diffuse mass of wrecks and shady buildings on the eastern side of the city, just outside the city walls. Their view continued northwards and they could see some huts and farms on the fertile ground in front of the north walls of the city and stretching into the heartland. to their surprise they also noticed a large amount of tents and camps in that same area. and far away at the northern horizon, more little sugar loafs and the beginning of some cloud draped dense sub-tropical forest. But their gaze was suddenly interrupted.

A canon shot could be heard from the battleship: was it going to attack the city? Another canon shot, this time coming from the harbor was heard in the distance. Yesnarel smiled softly and shared his knowledge with the group.
“This, my friends, is a greeting. The city welcomes the mariners back home and from what we can hear, they are going to be some celebration for them too. They certainly have won a nice battle or have been away for a while”.

The “Repulse” docked a few minutes before the "Dragonfly" and Mulchanor played the game of the hero, saluting the crowds and cheering back at them. Then, as Yesnarel has correctly guessed, the whole city was in a tumult of a giant festivity. flags were hanging from the windows, ropes were tied above the streets between the canyons of the building to which lambions and more decorations hung. the strets were full of people dressed in colourfull clothes enjoying a good time, eating and buying little things at market stalls everywhere. At every corner musicians and show people, dancing, and juggling. In the meantime, excited at the idea of partying and socializing, Rameldin ran down to her room to get ready.

So, the "Repulse" would be the boat of a national hero, Captain Farsig. He probably would know many thing and many important people. He might be able to help in their search for Karnelian. Who knew?

Once ready she came back on the deck to find the crew overly happy, the Captain had decided to give them shore vacation so that they would enjoy the festivities too. The "Dragonfly" still couldn’t be left alone and so a few unlucky ones would stay onboard to keep an eye on the ship and everyone’s belonging. The group happily touched ground and started toward the city. A few meters away, they were stopped by shadaki guards:
“No weapons are allowed in the city walls for the time of the festivities. Please make sure you do not carry any or you will be prosecuted.” The scimitars at their belt were rather convincing but the company still tried to negotiate their way in. Mulchanor insisted, evoking the gun as the extension of a dwarf hand, to no avail. The guards didn’t bulge. Yesnarel and Erleothir walked back to the ship to drop their stuff while Mulchanor kept arguing. The alternative would be to put all weapons in a trunk that would be locked and stored in the town’s castle. As the discussion went on, Rameldin turned discreetly to the mage “I have a few things hidden in my dress, do you think they will control?” Yesnarel looked at her with surprise “it’s not worth the risk Rameldin” and he more or less dragged her back to the ship. When all thought Mulchanor and the guards had reached an agreement, he put an end to the negotiation on the reason that he wouldn’t be to accompany his gun. It was then his turn to go back to the ship to drop his rifle, he paid two of the guards to stay and keep an eye on his beloved gun and the "Dragonfly".

Before finally leaving the landing area Erleothir asked one last question to the guards: “Do you know an inn where they serve good Vasagonian beer?”
The guards shrugged and advised him to follow the crowd toward the central plaza but that finding a place to stay would be difficult with the unusual amount of visitors.
“Ok, then, shall we?” Rameldin was eager to enter the crowd and reach the heart of the party. She wanted to meet Captain Farsig, she was dressed to catch his attention, she was determined to mingle with the rich and powerful.

The group was advancing relatively fast in the crowd - almost like beeing pushed forward - and they failed to hear someone running after them, calling Erleothir’s name. Mulchanor was wondering aloud how a single man could earn such a big party. Draugh was walking proudly in his armour, catching woman eyes and suddenly catching the eye of a short, fat and sweaty man. It was enough to startle him and that’s all what the man needed to finally catch up with them.
“Good evening to you dear Sirs and Mademoiselle” he bowed a little “My name is Toxif and I come to you sent by a common friend, Alast. He has arranged for you to stay in an inn on the eastern side of the city, in the … slums. It’s the Broken Mast Inn”
“So, the place is a dump..." commented Mulchanor.
“No we prefer to call it "easily accessible for adventurers on a low low budget.". In fact, it is the best inn you could hope for ... in the "Brackwaters" that is."

Rameldin pouted “But I want to meet Captain Farsig ! I want to dance and I don’t want to ruin my dress in the dirt”.

Erleothir ignored her and asked about Alast “how is he doing? Is he waiting for us there?”

Toxif elusively answered “He’s… in a safe place. The boss at the Broken Mast Inn will be able to tell you more”.

After exchanging another glance, they decided to follow him and off they went, crossing the streets toward the East gate, leaving the celebration behind them and facing the slums.

Many departures

2011-07-21T22:19:00.006+02:00

Finally sitting down Rameldin was still talking when Gustavius ordered some food and beer. Another blue triangle had been found and, this time, this small victory wasn't achieved in blood. Soon the conversation turned to be a discussion as Gustavius escalated his terms and sarcasms toward a young insolent Rameldin. Diplomacy is not a dwarf art, neither comprehension. Soon Erleothir was trying to diffuse the situation under the amused look of Draugohtar and Yesnarel.
Rameldin high voice turned to catch the attention of the surrounding dwaves while she talked out loud about those "blue triangle" turing Gustavius face even redder than usual and more annoyed than it is his habit. Her loud intervention was actually a blessing as she grabbed both triangle right under Gustavius beard and played with them. Amazingly the triangles glowed and were now one. Gustavius took it again under the amazed look of all when the discussion went higher than expected.
Strong word too harsh to describe here were thrown from both side, quoting either the ineptitude to help from one or the mule character of the other. Eleothir tried to calm both and stood as the new found leader he is. He decided for the greater good to bring her in her room till she could calm down. When he returned he was for sure not in her grace any more. Sometimes being a leader is making the wrong deeds for the greater good. Gustavius felt now at ease to impress and teach the hazardous company about the true meaning of all of this scavenger hunt.
Seven keys exist and each can open a safe. So far they opened two and found two triangle. Which now, due to Rameldin, are only a square. Powerful enemies are looking for the remaining triangle, five still seems to be unaccounted for and the Hazardous allies are away or dead. Gustavius tried to explain the urgency and utmost secrecy of the situation, which Rameldin didn't seem to care about. The newcomers in the company listened carefully and despite the gravity of the situation they were ready to go with the flow, even if a sudden painful death was to be expected at the hands of one of the many invisible enemies. Once all were set Gustavius was sent to Rameldin's room to solve their little differences before departing for Kitaesi, as Erleothir had been informed to go by some mysterious way.

When everything seemed to be finally leading him to a deserved rest, Erleothir was surprised to hear once again the strident Rameldin's voice claiming she was innocent and won't leave the Inn. All our heroes came out at the same moment, finding Rameldin escorted by guards and Gustavius talking to them.
-Why are you taking her, shouted Erleothir.
- She is not welcomed here in Bor as per Master Gustavius informed us
- What is on your mind Gustavius? Didn't I ask you to settle your differences previously???
- Erleothir, I cannot trust a female that doesn't share a bunk during a night. If we are a company and she behaves like this here can you imagine how she is going to be as soon as we encounter real problems?
- I am not a female, I have a name!
- Silence! Come with us to the guarrison!
When Rameldin was too much of an annoyance for all, Draugohtar slapped her not once but twice till she calmed down. Enough to be dragged to the prison. Meanwhile Erleothir and Gustavius discussed on how to take her out of prison and the dwarf decided, in a rare moment of kindness, to go and fetch her. A weird story about sharing the bed and the female appellation made another crisis between those two, but this time Erleothir will teach them how to behave or, at least, he though so. Once at the prison they learned that she will need to leave Bor as she turned to be persona non grata in the Kingdom. She will be on shackles till she board the Dragonfly. Gustavius tried to take her on his shoulder till then but she refused.
- Well, as you can see Erleothir she thinks of herself again prefering to delay us in our quest instead of making our life mo...
- Enough of this you too! Rameldin, we need to leave, please do accept to be carried away and we'll leave Boradon to Kitaesi, I will explain everything later.
- I don't like him, he doesn't respect me, he is not...
- STOP IT FOR ISHIR SAKE!
I do not like what you did to me too Erleothir, said Rameldin but carry me, at least you are not like the dwa...
Why do I joined this company again, silently though Erleothir while taking her over his shoulders. Quickly boarding and saying goodbye to Boradon, Mulchanor had been informed previously and was already sleeping, completely unaware of the new turns and company members from the last days. After a couple of days in the air, toward Kitaesi another skyship boarded them for their surprise but only Gustavius recognized the vessel.
- It can't be! Tolbiac? What is he doing here?
A brief encounter with this adventurer dressed in a leather armour was enough for Gustavius to abandon his friends, providing Erleothir with the blue square informing them of the necessity of his leave for the greater good. There was something more important than the crucial quest they were just in.
- So all that we talked yesterday was for nothing? Say Erleothir?
- I'm glad he leaves, I don't like him! Smiled Rameldin.
Mulchanor and Yesnarel were not there to see him leaving and Draugohtar nodded to him respectfully as Gustavius left, he too, knew the meaning of duty.

Gus gone, Erleothir was now the only one from the original team. Lightning and Griselda dead, Mulchanor, Yesnarel and Draugohtar were new found additions to the team. Kitaesi was now a vast openness of opportunities with no clues of were to go.

Whispering secrets

2011-06-20T19:12:00.014+02:00

29th December 5000

The morning started early for the group. Yesnarel got up first and went looking for his friends, hoping to have company for breakfast. Walking past Rameldin's door, he merely shrugged, letting her locked inside, he was in no hurry to see her. So, he woke the knight up instead and seeing that Erleothir was already getting ready, he invited himself in his room, to discuss some issues in private. The moment didn't last long however, a knock at the door interrupted them. It was Draug, their new acquaintance. He was oblivious to the silence his presence created and started talking, asking about the rest of the group. The two friends quickly realized this could be put to their advantage : he could be sent to "free" Rameldin and explain the night before.

What the men didn't know, was that Rameldin hadn't been waiting for them to get up. She had heard Yesnarel when he knocked on her door previously and had unceremoniously asked him to leave her alone. After that, she quickly got dressed and walked to the door, planning on opening it discreetly to sneak out. She was surprised to find the door locked. Looking around, she quickly found the key at her feet and resumed her exit, this time clearly upset at her fellow companions. Not bothering to check on them, she went downstairs and sat at an empty table, facing the stairs to be sure not to miss them. At that point, it was reasonable to doubt of their willingness to keep her in the group.

The knocks on her door were left unanswered and Draug quickly got back to the guys who were surprised to find the young woman already seated and widely waving to them: correction, to Erleothir. Yesnarel only got a dark glare that mysteriously and quickly soften until Rameldin was almost purring. Her interest however was all over the new comer, that young knight, in full armour showing a great load of confidence. She pressed him with questions, disgusted if not jealous, Erleothir left them and walked to the buffet, followed by Yesnarel. When they came back, Rameldin naturally help herself with their food and went on talking and talking.

Gustavius, finally arriving to the inn after trying his best to clean his place and make an inventory of missing items. Upon seeing the scene, he couldn't help but smile, and share the pain of the two older. He joined the group and ordered some beer which Erleothir promptly refused. Now wasn't the time to play anymore, they had a little expedition to prepare.

Rameldin, who wasn't aware of their new business, immediately found a dozen questions to ask the dwarf, while on their way to the administrative quarter. She managed to be so annoying that Erleothir, following his instinct of sacrifice ( or call it sense of duty ), offered to take her for a walk in the shopping area. Gustavius wasn't really keen on splitting the group but the girl was insisting and, after making sure the two would stay in the shopping area so that a courier could find them if needed, the group left them turn toward the stores.

It was easy and quick for Gustavius to find the proper office where to request access to the old mine. Finding a map proved to be a little more difficult; they were sent to another office in order to talk to an old sage who used to play in the now abandoned area when he was a child. The whole group was surprised by his age and his long white beard. Hadn't he been so short, he could have been really impressive. They exchanged a few words and gathered precious information about the mine and its design, and the potential foes that could be found. They almost got in troubles when, bidding their farewell, Rameldin added a "Grand-Pa". She didn't mean to disrespect him, it was more a way for her to express the feeling of confidence and wisdom he conveyed. Rameldin still had to learn a lot about dwarves and their lifestyle.

The group didn't waste any more time and started in direction of the old mine. At the entrance they were given as many torches as they wanted, being a girl, Rameldin could only carry two and gave the rest to the guys. After another little discussion between the members : how long would the exploration last ? In which order should they walk ? Is the mine really safe ? What are they looking for exactly ? Did they all need to go ?
More sighs and finally they were in, Draugh broke an old wooden fence that was blocking their path and they crossed in a cloud of spiderwebs.

The passage was surprisingly high and of decent width, they could at least walk at ease. However, walking at ease and progressing are clearly two different things for the company. At the first crossroad, about two minutes away from the entrance, the conversation started again : the path was opening on the right, should they go together and check this unmarked track or should they stick to the main road as described on the map ? But if they were looking for something, shouldn't they explore what is not written ? Since the rest had been explored already ....
The conversation was animated but in the end useless. They all followed the unmarked track which lead them to a dead end. Coming back on the main road, they also reached a dead end. Gustavius' face showed his puzzlement.

" there must be something we missed ... a door, a path ... " he mumbled holding his torch along the wall checking the wall for imperfections or a hint of some sort. The other imitated him, Draugh was pounding on the stone, testing their echo, Rameldin was caressing the stone, feeling for a niche, Yesnarel was sensing whatever he could find, oh, a soft wind coming from the right ! All their efforts combined and it's the newcomer who opened a secret door. All turned to the new entrance, Draugh was obviously pretty proud of his discovery. But of course, before they set foot on the new path, they had to discuss a little bit more. This time the concern was about getting lost, they wanted to make sure they would find their way back since the map was now rendered useless.
Rameldin had an idea but not many people ready to listen her out. Erleothir came to her rescue.

" you have tissue we could use to mark our way ?"

Rameldin produced a long piece of cloth, uncut and started cutting ribbons with the help of the knight. The idea was to tie those ribbons to the wall asperities so as to remember where they came from. However, they realized that the mine was a one way road anyway and that the tissue carefully selected in Shotia in hope to make a nice dress had been cut for nothing. They all engaged in the entrance and set to explore the lower levels.

They arrived in a circular room which had three rooms on the side, each room holding an anvil and a hammer. No exit. It looked like they would have to solve a little puzzle to move further. That one was easy : nodding in understanding, Gustavius, Erleothir and the yound Draugh Othar each entered a chamber. On the count of three given by Yesnarel, they hit the anvil and following a loud “clang” the walls started to tremble, Rameldin came closer to Yesnarel and they retreated in the entrance door. The floor disappeared gradually and they could now see stairs of stone, leading to some underground level. Once all movement was finished, they made their way down. Rather confident.

In the second level, a second quiz awaited them. Erleothir was amazingly fast at resolving it…only to find another puzzle. That one was about triangles and more triangles… in the end, Gustavius managed to satisfy whoever placed the puzzles there and the room configuration changed again. Another circle appeared and a ladder on its side was leading the way always a little deeper in the mine. How would they come out?

In that level, on a sort of altar were several statues and some raw material. The adventurers were not used to so much thinking, and, let’s face it, not all of them had the patience required in those situations. In the small room, chaos started, all were thinking aloud, none were afraid to touch the items, experimenting several solutions. It’s Yesnarel and Erleothir who finally solved the riddle. Rameldin had long give up and all noticed that she was the kind of person to get bored pretty quickly.

Now that the final test had been passed with success, the room morphed for a last time: the ground opened and on a half height pillar sat a blue triangle. All reacted to the view, Draugh and Rameldin might have been the most curious: they had never seen such a thing before.
Fearless, as usual, the company didn’t waste time deciding what to do, of course they would collect the item and climb back up, mission completed. They should have learned by now that things rarely were that easy. So, when Leo grabbed the triangle from its resting place, problem started. Namely, the ceiling started to fall down on them. Seeing the speed at which it was falling they had little time to think: Erleothir could only take one other person under his shield, Yesnarel wasn’t sure his magic could built a shield strong and big enough for the rest of them. What should they do then? When panic was about to win them over, luck (or was it destiny?) took the form of a little block on the wall and saved them. The ceiling stopped for a few extra seconds, just long enough for them to jump under cover of the previous platform. Once the ceiling was completely down and turned into a floor, they walked out of their cover and Gustavius reversed the mechanism of the ancient trap, thus transporting the complete company on the highest floor again like on a lift platform and back to fresh air, exhausted.

On their way back to the city the youngest were excited by the discovery, Gustavius, showing little emotions was at best satisfied. The knight looked worried and the mage impatient to study the artifact for the moment in possession of the dwarf.

They pushed the door of the inn open, now was time to rest.

Of knights, robbers and pain

2011-06-20T19:11:00.010+02:00

28th December 5000

When he looked towards his shop, Gustavius did not linger long and immediately ran into his shop, quickly followed by the rest of the company. From the strict and straight-forward lines and corners, which one would normally find in dwarven architecture was nothing to be recognized. The shop was simply a mess of relics upon relics, covered with trinkets, broken statues and an occasional mechanic device that could now be found everywhere on the floor. Gustavius ran to the back of his shop where the rest of the company could not see him anymore, but soon they would know exactly where he was. “NOOOOOO, NOT MY …..”, he said before he suddenly stopped as if he realized that he was not the only person in the shop. Yesnarel offered his help, but Gustavius just grumbled and mumbled something about “thieving bandit” and what would happen if he got his hands on him.

In the meantime, Erleothir and Rameldin were looking around the place to see if there was something interesting. Rameldin stumbled on some relics and tried to hold her balance by grabbing a table cloak which was not intended to hold the weight of even a young light girl. She fell on the floor and was now covered with the table cloak and everything that was on that table. Erleothir just looked outside the window and it was clear that something on the street caught his attention. “I will go outside towards that inn on the other side.”, he said and Rameldin mumbled from underneath the blanket that she would join him. Erleothir sighed, but he helped her up and accepted to join him.

Outside the shop, the two were greeted by a dwarf who walked steadily towards them. “Greetings, you must be the friends of Gustavius Anvilsong. My name is Valberin, an old friend of Gustavius and his friends are my friends.”. Before Erleothir or Rameldin could say anything, the dwarf took their arms and pulled them back into the shop again. “Come with me, my friends, because I have information for Gustavius of which I’m sure you will all be very interested.”.
Back inside, Valberin told the group that he has waited for them to arrive and that he knows where the robbers currently. “Well, don’t just shimmy around there and tell me what you know”, said Gustavius. “The bandits, who did this to your place, have been arrested and are now held being captive in the prison of the garnison.”. “Aha! So there were more than just 1 robber, I understand.”. Valberin continued: “The garnison has been waiting for you to arrive, because they were sure that you would be interested in why they came into their shop. As per Dwarven law, you will have the right to interrogate them.”.

Gustavius was pleased to hear that the robbers were caught, but he was also sure that he needed to get back to strength after this long journey, not to forget the shock to find his house burgled. He decided to go for a meal first in the inn on the other side of the street. While passing the street, Erleothir made a good look to the sign outside of the tavern. Even though he is not skilled in the dwarven language and its runes, he was still pleased to recognize 2 rifles crossing each other, fired shortly before as smoke was still coming out of it.

Inside they sat down and Gustavius showed himself a worthy host by ordering drinks and food for everybody. Even though Rameldin has worked in a tavern and one would expect that she is used to some alcohol, the strong Bor beer made her feel light-headed and she moved closer towards the knight. “Oh, master knight, you look so strong in your armour. Do you think you also have what it takes to make a young girl happy?”. Erleothir quickly grabbed his drink and did not feel well about this. Not sure what to do, he gulped down his glass, which was not such a good idea as his head was going woozy and it decided to drop down on the table. Yesnarel, who has seen this all happening, laughed loudly and Rameldin, who was rather disappointed by the knight’s endurance, started to draw her attention to the mage. However after another sip of her beer, Rameldin was not able to react to anything anymore and was now lying with her head on the table as well, right next to Erleothir. Gustavius and Yesnarel finished their dinner, making sure not to spill anything on the 2 and after a well-deserved supper, they brought Rameldin to her room and locked the door just to make sure she would not start to seduce a dwarf from the inn. Gustavius asked for the “foreigner-special” and sipped something in Erleothir’s mouth. Directly after that, Erleothir sprung awake, shaked his head, looked around and let out a gigantic burp so loud the tables in the room shivered. “HUZZAHH”, the crowd of dwarves cheered and they raised their ale in the air.

“Feeling better again?”, Gustavius asked Erleothir and helped him up his feet. “We must go to the prison now and see why these bandits came into my house.”. After a short walk towards the legislative area, they arrived at the prison of the Garnison of Boradon. They were greeted by Kilring, the boss of the Garnison and he announced that he has heard of Gustavius’ return and expected his arrival at the prison. He also informed them there is another person of the “big folks” who has been asking to visit the prisoners. The group was quite astonished to hear that they were not the only people interested to see them and followed Kilring inside.

“I demand to see the prisoners”, they heard a man’s voice from afar. With swift steps, the group went towards the shouts and there they saw a tall man, wearing fully armour and he was also not to stingy about weapons either. “Who are you?”, asked Gustavius. The stranger answered: “My country has ordered me to investigate the robbery on the shop of one Gustavius Anvilsong. I demand to see the prisoners in order to get more information out of them. Ah, but where are my manners? Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Ohtar, Draug Ohtar, I’m a knight of the republic of Palmyrion”. Erleothir was astonished to find another knight in these areas, and one from Palmyrion even. Palmyrion is much like Sommerlund. It is a defiant nation with the strength to resist the dangers of the Darklands and the will to fight for what is right in the world. Self-sufficient and powerful, Palmyrion is a model nation and an inspiration to its neighbours. “Well, it happens to be that I am one Gustavius Anvilsong”, Gus answered back. “If you are willing to help us with your investigation, I can allow you towards the prisoners, as per dwarven law.”.

Draug was willing to join the group and they continued towards the prison cells. They were welcomed by a dwarf with a big smile and red clothes. It appeared to them that he chose to wear red colors, because one would not be able to see blood stains on them. They entered the prison cell and immediately they saw a person hanging on the wall. His hands were above his head, manacled on a chain which was pinned in the wall and his feet a bit up in the air. He was blindfolded, so he could not see his own looks, but he must have felt his enormous amount of bruises and cuts, as it was clear that the dwarf was not so keen on robbers in his jurisdiction. In the middle of the room was a table covered in blood or rust (it was not so clear to tell anymore) and on this table was instruments that were made for 1 purpose only: to make people talk. “The other robber is on the other side of this room.”, and he showed them the way to the passage leading to the other room. “Have fun, my lads.”, he grinned.

Draug immediately stepped towards the robber and punched him in the stomach: “What were you doing in that shop?”, he shouted. Erleothir asked him to stop punching him as this is not the way a knight finds out the truth. “Truth?”, said Draug, “I’m here to seek answers and to commit justice.”. Gustavius answered: “Well, no answers are given when they’re dead, so take it easy on them…….at first”. The robber then started talking: “If you want answers, I’m not the one who will give them to you. Yes, I’ve robbed your store for good money. Do you want to know why? Well, guess what, you will never find out from me…..”. Draug quickly took the blindfold and gagged the robber with it. Erleothir stood at the back and asked what he was doing. “Ah, haven’t you learned anything in Sommerlund about questioning a prisoner? I’m gagging him, so he can’t bite his tongue and commit suicide. We’re not getting answers from him yet, but I’m not willing that he departs from us so soon.”. He then took his knife and cut the pinky finger of the robber, quickly following by heating up the wound, so it did not bleed anymore. The robber shouted in pain, but also made a noise as if he was laughing behind his gag. Erleothir was visibly shocked, but also astonished by the ways of the Palmyrion knight. “Let’s go to the other robber”, Draug continued; “maybe he is more willing to talk or he can be easier convinced.” and the group went towards the other room

All in all, it looked the same, another prisoner hanging on the wall in the air and a table with instruments just in front of him. However the expression of this robber was different. He looked…..scared, not knowing what would happen to him. Draug and Gus did not lose much time and started the same strategy on this fellow. “Please”, the robber said, “please don’t hurt me. I did not want to rob your store, but I had to. I was in need of money. That’s all I can say”. Gustavius said: “You better start talking, because if your friend next-door is more willing to speak, there is no use for us to you anymore.”. To make sure that the robber understood what Gustavius was talking about, he also cut the finger of this robber and put a hot iron on its stomp end. The robber screamed in pain and underneath the blindfold, a tear strokes his cheek.

The group went back to the first robber again. It was now clear that he was the leader of the two and hopefully he could provide them with more information. Even if he did hear the screams of his fellow robber, he showed no notice that he was concerned about what was going to happen. Before Draug or Gustavius could take over, Yesnarel did a step forward and said: “Let me have a go, I may have a way to make him talk” and while he said those words, his hand went to the crotch of the robber. Even in his wildest imaginations, the robber would not think of what was coming next. Suddenly a bolt of lightning struck out of the hand of Yesnarel. When the rest of the group saw this, they automatically put their hands on their own crotches as if they felt the pain as well. The eyes of the robbers opened so wildly that the rest feared his eyeballs would fall out. After a few seconds, which seemed like minutes, the room was filled with the smell of burnt flesh. “Now ask your questions.”, Yesnarel said in a rather common voice and he ungagged the robber. The robber just provided the group with an – almost toothless – smile and then suddenly started choking. Before anybody could react, the robber found a way to bite his tongue and died a rather painful death. “Well, I guess we won’t get answers from him anymore,”, Draug replied, “so let’s pay another visit to the other fellow. Oh right, and Yesnarel: nice way to provide justice.”.

When the group entered the other room again, the other robber looked even more feared than before. He must have seen the enormous light flash that could be seen in all the prison cells. The screaming of his former colleague was still loud enough for the other prisoners to know what was going on, even though he was gagged. “So,”, Gustavius continued, “are you now more willing to talk?”. “Please don’t hurt me, I’ve told you all that I know!”, he cried. Draug simply said: “Well, that’s not enough for us at the moment.” and with a knife he cut another finger of him. “Ok, ok. I can’t tell you who ordered us to rob the store, but I can tell you where you will find the device that you are currently looking for. You will find your key in the undergrounds.”. SNAP, another finger flew in the air, followed by a loud scream. Draug replied: “Why don’t you want to say who you are working for? And can your description be even more vague?!? What do you mean with the undergrounds? Speak swiftly.”. The robber continued: “Please don’t hurt me, I’ve told you all I know. I could not see his face, nor did I hear a name. And I’ve only heard of the other two talking about the undergrounds and that the key is there. We only robbed your store, because we heard that you had a map of the place. Please, it’s all I know, I swear!”

Erleothir, who was still standing near the door when he saw all this happen, looked rather disturbed by this sight, but also intrigued by the ways of the Palmyrion knight. Then all of a sudden, Draug turned around to Erleothir: “Well master Knight”, he said, “I think we have heard all the information we will ever receive out of him.” He looked at Erleothir with a little smile: “Why don’t you finish him off?”. Erleothir was baffled: “What?!? Do you want ME to kill him?”. “But of course not. I only want you to speak justice of him”, was the answer he received.
Erleothir took out his dagger, which was covered with a polished red ruby and walked towards the robber. He held the dagger on his throat and closed his eyes shortly. Then all of a sudden, he took away the knife and said to Draug: “I cannot kill a man who is already dead. After all it is clear that he was not the brain behind his mission, but a poor old sod who knew the wrong people.”

The 3 adventurers had found more than they imagined, but less than they had wished for. They were not too happy with the amount of information they received from the robbers, but on the other hand, they found a fellow companion. Draug followed the group outside and he was soon invited to join them towards the inn. “Let’s see how Rameldin is doing, and let’s not forget that we still have to pick up Mulchanor if we are about to go in the undergrounds.”, said Yesnarel.
Now it was Draug’s turn to be intrigued: “Rameldin, you say? Who is she? And who is this Mulchanor fellow? And what is with the keys that the robber was talking about?”. Gustavius simply replied: “All in good times. It’s been a long day. Let’s first have a drink first and we’ll discuss the more important things later.”

The group entered the “smoking rifles” inn and Gustavius ordered Bor beer again for the group. Erleothir quickly interrupted and said that he would like to try a nice glass of Vassagonian Beer. The waitress looked at the knight with an understanding smile and soon after, everybody had their drinks in front of them. Erleothir slipped something in his pocket, but the rest did not notice, for the music was loud and the atmosphere was merry. The group held their glasses in the air and Gustavius proposed a toast. “To Draug Ohtar, knight of the Republic of Palmyrion, a man who knows how to make people talk”. “Hear hear”, he replied. “To many new introductions.”. They all drank their Bor beer (except Erleothir who had a Vassagonian one) and only seconds later, a loud bump was heard. On the table they saw Erleothir’s head with closed eyes and a merry smile on his face.

Suddenly, words !

2011-06-09T13:29:00.003+02:00

even wondered how often some words appear in our story. here a small cloud

and now.. without our names

Coming back to my kin, a dwarf story

2011-05-24T09:15:00.012+02:00

21st December 5000

After an undermined time underground the notion of time elapsed for our heroes, they couldn't tell how long the thieves made them turn around in order for them to never find the entrance again. Unfortunately for both the guild members couldn't imagine they were lost after the first turn in the sewers. They managed to get out in the middle of town, knowing for sure this was not the only exit or entrance, depending on the need. A simple hour took them to the Sommerlund Ambassy, where they received their hardly won paid.
As they were now together and bounded by the one day group pass Ricaro gave them, Rameldin was eager to go around on her own, reminding the group of how well they were without her. As a cherry over a cake, she pressured everyone to pay her due as she wanted to be sure she'll get Alast money. Gustavius requested a receipt, quite insistent over this matter. Dwarves will always be dwarves.

All were glad to have left the sewers, their pouches still heavy even after paying the first part of the repairs for the "Green Rat Inn" to Rameldin and quite content of themselves they headed towards "The Bluebeard Inn" on recommendation of the two dwarves. The evening passed by in a joyful athmosphere as all were enjoying the food and drinks and for a moment all the darkness of this world were far from them. As Gustavius was paying for the dinner a small discussion arose in the background about where to sleep, the inn having only dwarven beds and they decided to simply head back to the "Dragonfly" and spend the night there.

The night passed by uneventful and the next day around noon, Captain Padoka set course for Bor, the trip would last only six days. A welcome break for all.

But not all was well, there seemed to be some tension lingering between Erleothir, Gustavius and Mulchanor. Nothing hostile but it was clear that some slight incertitude was rising. Erleothir caught Mulchanor and Gustavius having some discreet discussion and neither the frown he received from Mulchanor nor the dark glare Gustavius threw at both of them was reassuring.
"Gustavius, I know you have the feeling you have lost your time, but... I know we will find someone who can help us in Bor..." seeing no acknowledgment on Gustavius' part he continued "Listen, I am also more than disappointed and you know that I intended to save Mellini in Shotia, now she has been carried away and..."
"A waste of time !" Interrupted Gustavius "I had told you we should have headed to Shotia first, but you were the one to decide otherwise." Gustavius stopped, quickly thinking if he should continue blaming Erleothir, it itched him to, but he decided otherwise "well, we all do bad decisions from time to time..." a short silence followed.
"We will need your help in Boradon. You know the place, you live there, can we... can I count on you ?" asked Erleothir in a friendly tone
Gustavius sighed "yes... yes I'll help you out as much as I can in Boradon"
"and then ?"
"then what ?"
Erleothir sighed and started closing the door "is there anything I should know about ..." but the rest of the discussion was muffled.

The next day Mulchanor surprised Gustavius in the forge
"you closed the door to the forge, that's unusual of you..."
"yeah, we ran out of grenades... and for some rather obvious reasons, I don't want the girl to see me crafting explosives."

Rameldin, the girl, was on the upper deck. Erleothir had thought that it might be a good idea to train her a bit in sword fighting. He was training her with wooden swords and was showing Rameldin how to hold it correctly as well as the basic parrying moves. this lasted on for several days and the rest of the company sometimes gathered on the deck with their tankards in hand to watch. At some point he thought it might be a good idea to start a small duel to test her abilities. On his first attack he swiped her wooden sword out of her hand.
"But I wasn't ready !" complained Rameldin as the wooden sword slid across the deck.
"it's not like the thugs will be waiting for you to be ready" replied Erleothir
all eyes were locked on her as she bowed to lift the sword from the ground, Erleothir could not help to notice.
"also your dress isn't exactly appropriate for such training" he muttered for himself.
After countless other tries and a rather large number of wooden swords stroke overboard Erleothir started showing some signs of fatigue.
"you're so strong Erleothir, can't I just rely on the fact that you will protect me?" fluttered Rameldin with her most charming smile while coming close to him. Erleothir's attempt at keeping a stern expression at her failed miserably while the sound of his companions respectively chuckling and choking on their beer could be heard on the background.
"hey, strong guy!" said Yesnarel while putting a hand on his shoulder, "we should have a quick look at the ... thing... we recovered." he turned to Rameldin "so that your new 'pupil' can take a break." and they headed down, leaving the young woman contemplating the landscape...

Unfortunately their investigations proved to be in vain. The stone they had recovered from the underwater temple was now lying there in their hands but its secrets could not be discovered.
"It's a very ancient artifact, from the Shianti. that is no doubt. also the design of the temple were we recovered it does not leave any doubt about it. but now... hmm the surface is absolutely even, nothing there...." started Yesnarel
"were they actually worshipping a stone?" wondered Gustavius
"hmm well it was indeed glowing... why is the glow gone?" continued Erleothir.
"maybe it only glows when immersed" hazarded Yesnarel

a few minutes later all were standing around a bucket filled with water.

staring at the stone bathing in it.

"nope.... still not glowing"

"maybe it's not the element that makes it glow. maybe it's about the location where it is ?"
"we could try with another element ? fire for example?"
"NO FIRE! ... you know.. let's just lock it up again for today, maybe we'll find something more helpful in Bor..."

*
* *

The "Firefly" was now whirring between snow capped mountains but the weather was clear. They had reached their destination. Jack turned over to Gustavius and Mulchanor asking if they knew a good parking spot by the city. Both just stared blankly back at Jack. Before leaving Boradon they had never seen any skyship not to mention traveling aboard one. Gustavius was feeling uncomfortable that they had crossed the border and how the Bor military would react upon seeing a skyship trespass over their country. His fears soon turned out to be unfounded.

Padoka and Jack had found a suitable place to park the skyship, above a collapsed mine entrance, close to the south gate of the city. Some patrol arrived very quickly and Gustavius was the first to head down the ladder and speak with them.

"I am really sorry if we trespassed in some area we should not be..." he started apologising. but the guards just turned it down.
"no need to worry... as long as the ship stays were it is everything is fine. what's your business?"
"coming back from a trip, I'm heading back home..." he produced his id out of one of his pockets "and I have some friends I wanted to show the place."
"humans?"
"yes, three humans and a fellow dwarf.... they are all trustworthy."
"fine fine, that will be enough, you can enter the city..." the guard waved Gustavius away and was about to continue his patrol or head back to whatever task he and his colleague was doing.
"but..." started Gustavius "... no need for papers for the three humans ?"
the guard turned back and sighed "no need, we have your name and address, and you arrived aboard a flying ship, if stuff goes wrong we know where to head. now if you excuse us, we have business to tend to"
"but..."
"listen, we don't have time for you, we took your id, that's all we need for now. Materials and guns have been disappearing recently, we are sure you'll understand that it keeps us a bit more busy."

Pictures of sealed crates stored at Rakuniki's shop, then being carried across Shotia and loaded aboard a ship at night flashed through Gustavius' paranoid mind.

"oh my... that's err... terrible. what ... fellow dwarf would do that ?" he muttered... but the guards were already gone.

The company crossed the immense south gate of Boradon and started walking down a corridor of impressive dimensions. Soon enough the corridor stopped abruptly and opened on a cavern of gigantic dimension.

"behold Boradon!" under the stalactites hanging some hundred meters over it, the circular city could be seen lying before them, like a large circular amphitheater in which center the palace of king whathisname was standing. the city was divided in 3 different terraces down towards the palace. shafts of light were falling from the surface and reflecting by large mirrors atop towers.
Rameldin could not hold her curiosity and started bombarding Gustavius with questions while the rest of the group seemed also quite eager to listen.
"so where are we heading?"
"to my place."
"oh great ! where do you live?"
"the second terrace"
"will we stay at your place?"
"no, it's too small, but there's a tavern just on the other side of the street"
"oh... will we meet your wife?"
"i'm not married"
"you have any pets?"
"er.... what ?"

and on and on. soon enough they turned into the Frothing road and reached the Hrimrath plaza just at the the promenade over the innermost circle of the city. and there they were. at the end of the street a sign was hanging "Gustavius Anvilsong's Antiques and Rarities Emporium" written in fine dwarven runes. And another sign hastily written and hanging below just stating "and repairs". but the door was barricaded.
"that's not how I left the place...." muttered Gustavius
"looks like there was a break in at your store...." started Erleothir.
But Gustavius was already rushing the door of his house.

28th December 5000

XP!:
Alast: 500xp for global session (yes he is making Xp on his private adventure and yes, he managed to survive alone),
Gustavius: 350xp for global session, 300xp for the receipt request, 300xp for trio discussion, 200 xp for getting them passing over Dwarf police control,
Rameldin: 300xp for global session, 200xp for training, 200xp for the idea of checking the keys, 150xp for fishing info,
Yesnarel: 300xp for global session, 300 xp for the key discoveries,
Erleothir: 350xp for global session, 300xp for trio discussion, 200xp for training Rameldin,
Mulchanor: 200xp for global session, 300xp for trio discussion,

In the sewers of Shotia …

2011-05-14T10:39:00.012+02:00

15 th December 5000

In the sewers of Shotia …

A week has passed in the city of Shotia and now it is time for our heroes to enter the sewers of Shotia to clean the place up a bit, that is….from creatures and evil beings. It was early morning, fog was dense and Ionevan, the guild leader, escorted the company to the entrance of the sewers. “I have here a small leather bag. When you have reached the end of the sewers, I want you to give this to Ricaro.” Erleothir took the bag and carefully opened it to see what was inside. Rameldin quickly tried to catch a glimpse of the contents, but our knight was fast enough to make sure that he was the only person that could see it.

“I have some instructions for you all”, continued Ionevan. The sewers are filled with rats and so called Lapillibores. They both attack in groups and the problem is that they are very hard to hit. They are small, but very agile and they have a nasty bite. Lapillibores don’t attack unless you disturb their nests. Alast quickly asked then: “So how do these nests look like?”. “Well, that’s your main concern this week. Lapillibore nests are easy to stumble into, because the insects are the colour of stone and they rest with their grey shells covering the entrance.” Our company was quite dazed when they heard these words. How would they ever see a grey nest in a grey environment?

But they had no time to think about that. Ionevan was not yet done with his instructions and so he continued. “I have here a map for you. After a day’s march, this will lead you to your first resting point. A second map awaits you there, which will lead you to the next resting point, and so on and so on, until you reach the backdoor entrance of the lair of Ricaro. I want you to leave the old map behind, while you take the new map. We might need these again for new adventurers. On each resting point, you will food and torches for the next day. Is this clear to all of you?”. Everybody nodded and our heroes were ready to go.

Ionevan opened the entrance to the sewers and since Rameldin would not join them inside, she hugged everybody goodbye and told them to be careful. Everybody descended inside and looked into a tunnel system where they knew that they would never find a way out without a map. The tunnel consisted of 2 pavements which are 2 meters wide with a little “river” between them, that was 3 meters wide. The dwarves felt rather well inside compared to the others, as they were the only ones who were able to stand straight. Since the tunnel system was only 1,75 meters high, all the others had to bend a little. As the entrance door slowly closed, they heard one last instruction from Ionevan. “Whatever happens, never…I repeat…NEVER come back up using this entrance. You will be killed at first sight!” Then the entrance closed and they looked into a dim-lighted tunnel system.

5 minutes have passed. The atmosphere was grim and only 1 torch at a time could be lit so they would not wander in the dark at a later time. They discussed who would go walking up front and after some time, it was decided that Erleothir would go first, followed by Gus, Alast, Mulchanor and finally Yesnarel. But it did not take long before they heard movement from the side. Before they even had time to react, Alast was already bitten by several Lapillibores. Erleothir, who was up front had no chance to get past the others so there was nothing for him to do than do check for more incoming vermins from the front and pray to Ishir that the rest could handle it. Gus, Yesnarel and Mulchanor were doing all they can to attack them and keep them away from them. However they did not see 1 Lapillibore who was now underneath Alast who was already lying on the floor. Alast was critically wounded and lost his consciousness. Yesnarel provided Alast with some potions of Laumspur and then went back into the fight. However due to Gustavius' enthusiasm to kill evil beings, he was pushed away by the dwarf and fell into the river. was now very busy drowning and being taken away by the streamlet. Erleothir quickly grabbed Yesnarel, but Yesnarel’s coat slipped through his fingers. Since all the Lapillibores were now dead, Gustavius - aware that it was because of him that Yesnarel fell down - quickly turned around and ran after Yesnarel. In a short moment where Yesnarel’s head came above “water” again, Gustavius shouted to keep his staff up. Yesnarel did and Gustavius took that chance to grab the staff and pulled him out of the river.

After everybody gathered around again after this chaos, they were wondering on how to continue. They were in just 1 fight, 2 of them nearly lost their lives, all their potions of Laumspur have been used, 10 minutes have passed in the sewers and they had to stay here for another week! They looked back at the entrance again, but then the warning of Ionevan echoed in their heads. “Whatever happens, never…I repeat…NEVER come back up using this entrance. You will be killed at first sight!”. Well then, as there is nothing else they could do, they decided that they might as well continue forward then. Luckily the rest of the day passed by without further interventions and they arrived at the first resting point.

Carefully following the instructions from Ionevan, they left the old map behind, took the new map for the day together with food and torches and continued their way. After some hours, the road is blocked by some stones. Yesnarel carefully went forward to have a good look at them and – using his keen eye – he saw 10 Lapillibores. Unlike his usual behavior in killing all evil beings, Mulchanor preferred to go around them. However the rest of the group did not see a way to get to the other side without casualties, they decided to attack instead. “This time we will be prepared”, said Erleothir and they quickly made a battle plan. Alast threw in a poison bomb to divide the animals. 6 were heading away and 4 came towards Erleothir, who stood ready with sword and shield. Mulchanor, Yesnarel and Gustavius were a little further behind. Mulchanor used his rifle to wound 1 beast and Yesnarel quickly finished it. Erleothir was swinging his sword and shield, but the animals were too agile for the knight. Alast took out his weapons and stabbed 1 Lapillibore to the ground. “Hey, did you see that? I just backstabbed him.” and he laughed. From the back, Gustavius killed another one with his rifle and Mulchanor finished the 4^th and last creature with 1 shot. Suddenly they saw the other 6 Lapillibores using the ceiling to head to the other side of the river and running back towards the company. Mulchanor shouted to follow him quickly and he ran off. The rest of the group realized that they would never be faster than these creatures and decided to fight them off first. In the meantime they hoped that Mulchanor would still wait at the next crossroad since he has the map of the day. Gustavius used one of his self-created flash-bangs to blind and daze the attackers. With the attackers being less agile, Erleothir used this opportunity to swing his sword and kill the first one, immediately followed by a shield bash on a second vermin which is squashed underneath its weight. Alast stabbed 1 Lapillibore to the ground. “Hey, did you see that? I just…”. “Yeah, we know!”, the rest shouted. Gustavius had his gun ready for another shot and killed one, immediately followed by Yesnarel who struck another one. Erleothir used his sword and wanted to stab the last Lapillibore to the ground, but missed and – even worse – his sword was stuck into the ground. The Lapillibore used this opportunity to attack Erleothir, but the effects of the flashbang were too heavy on the little vermin and instead of Erleothir’s neck, it jumped right into the sword, decapitating itself in the process. Erleothir mentioned: “This will still count as my kill” and the morale of the company rose again. At the next crossroad, they saw Mulchanor waiting for them. “Thanks for your help”, said Erleothir in a sarcastic tone. “Don’t expect me to help you next time.”, Gustavius informed him. Clearly they were not happy with Mulchanor’s decision that day and so ended another day for the company. Day three in the sewers went very smooth. Nothing happened and the company got used to the stinking smell of the tunnel system.

After another night of rest, the company continued their way towards Ricaro. But suddenly they were stopped by some unusual sightings from afar. Red eyes, 15 pair of them. “Rats!”, shouted Erleothir and only seconds later he was covered with all of them. Yesnarel reacted fast and used an arc storm to kill 4 of them. Alast threw a rope at Erleothir and shouted he should jump down into the river. Due to Erleothir’s quick movements, 6 rats fell off and got squashed underneath his feet. The rest of the company took the rope on the other end and prepared for Erleothir to jump into the stinking river. He prepared to jump down, but then slipped on a loose stone, making him fall on the floor and then slided into the river. Luckily he killed another 2 rats in the process. Mulchanor and Yesnarel then pulled the rope to help Erleothir on the boardwalk again, but in their enthusiasm they pulled so hard that Erleothir bumped his head against the wall (killing another 2 rats in the process). The last rat was so shocked at the sight of this that it died of a heart attack. The rest of the day passed by without anything worth mentioning, except that Erleothir now smelled really bad and the rest took some more distance to him.

The night was calm and Gustavius took the chance to start repairing the shield of Erleothir. The next morning they continued their way again towards Ricaro. Apart from the first 10 minutes, the trip towards him went rather smooth. After a while they hear some squeaking from behind and they looked again in the red eyes of a group of rats. Since Gus was now at the back, he did some quick thinking and created a fire using his torch. That killed 2 rats, but now the other rats all jumped onto Gustavius and started attacking him. Erleothir who was standing at the other side of the group started running towards Gustavius. “Brace yourself!”, he shouted. Gustavius looked towards Erleothir, asking himself what he was about to do. He saw Erleothir coming closer and closer and faster and faster. Realizing Erleothir’s plan, he raised his hands towards Erleothir, waving as much as possible and shouted: “No, Nooooooo”, but Erleothir just kept coming and bumped into Gustavius at full speed. 7 rats between Erleothir and Gustavius were squashed and they both fell on the floor. Gustavius looked at Erleothir in a grim and very surprised way, but then said: “Quick thinking. Thanks!”. 6 rats were still around the 2 heroes. They looked at each other as Gustavius mentioned: “Hey, since we are on the floor anyway, let’s roll them over” and so they started rolling over the rats. However in the meantime, Yesnarel also started killing rats by trampling on them. This caused the three to bump into each other and Yesnarel was now also a part of the trampling squad. “Very unconventional, but still effective against rats.”, they thought and continued their way again towards the next resting point.

After a night of rest followed by a calm day, they finally arrived at a wooden door, which was closed. Erleothir knocked and out came a hand, accompanied by a voice: “I believe you have something for me?”. Erleothir handed over the little leather bag and the door was about to close again. Gustavius however planted his foot in the doorway, but after a little struggle, he had to give up and pull his foot back. A few minutes passed by where nothing happened. Erleothir knocked on the door, still nothing. Then an hour passed by….and another hour. “Well, that’s just great. We are here in the sewers standing in front of a closed door, which we cannot enter. Even if we survive the way back, we are not allowed to get back to the surface.” Then suddenly they heard a voice from the other side: “Are you willing to behave now?” Erleothir quickly responded that all would go according to the will of the Thieves Guild and they entered into the lair of Ricaro, the new leader of the Thieves guild. Ricaro welcomed the heroes of the sewers and they were allowed to take a much deserved bath. He informed them that Rameldin will be joining them later for dinner.

Rameldin was very happy that the company returned safe. At least she was sure now that she would get her monthly payment from them to rebuild the “Green Rat”. After a while, the hazardous company ate and drink well, Ricaro stood up and took the opportunity to speak to our heroes. “Excuse me, my dear friends that I had to let you come through the sewers, but we were at war here and I had to make to an agreement with Karnelian. He said that I should keep Erleothir’s troublemakers busy for a week and that is what I did by sending you through the sewers. My deepest apologies, but I had to do this to avert a war. Now I have some entertainment ready for all of you.” They all wanted to stand up, but Ricaro immediately added: “…except for you, Erleothir. I would like to speak with you in private.”

The rest of the group left the room and enjoyed some entertainment. 2 hours passed by until they were called back into the room again. There they saw Erleothir sitting alone at the table. His face was pale and he looked distressed. Rameldin walked fast towards him and put her arms around him. “Are you okay, my strong knight?”, she asked, but Erleothir could say nothing and just mumbled something unhearable to the others. When everybody returned, Erleothir stood up and provided Ricaro with a red flag. “Wise choice, my friend”, responded Ricaro and he provided Erleothir with a letter, which he opened and read immediately. Erleothir asked some more time alone with Ricaro and after another hour, only Alast was allowed to enter the room. Another hour passed by until the rest of the Hazardous Company was called in again. When everybody seated again, Alast took the word: “You have to excuse me, my friends, but I am called away on a mission of high importance. I will be leaving your company for now. I cannot provide you with more details, but I will join you once I finish this journey. Ricaro will make sure that I can contact you.” As if that was not surprising enough, Ricaro then asked if the company is ready to head to Boradon now. Boradon, the capital of Bor, the home of the dwarves. Gustavius answered grimly: “So you are trying to tell me that I’ve made this long trip from my home country to Sommerlund, through the icy wastes of Kalte, via the Kai Monastery to the Boari Jungle, finally making my way to Shotia, where I planned to go and this only to hear that my journey now continues to Boradon again!?!” Erleothir responded fast: “Don’t worry master dwarf. We still have some errands here, which we are going to finish first. I suggest we first take a good night rest. I know for my part that I need it.” Erleothir then left without saying anything else, leaving the company dazed at the table. It was clear to the rest that he was feeling really bad. Will Erleothir be able to recover from this?

21 th December 5000

XP:

Erleothir: 500xp for general play, 1000 xp for the blog, 1250 xp for the killing, 500 xp for the out of gaming session,

Rameldin: 500xp for general play, 200 xp for the out of gaming session,

Alast: 300xp for general play, 1250 xp for the killing, 500 xp for the out of gaming session,

Yesnarel: 400xp for general play, 1250 xp for the killing, 500 xp for the out of gaming session,

Gustavius: 300xp for general play, 1250 xp for the killing, 500 xp for the out of gaming session,

Mulchanor: 150xp for general play, 1250 xp for the killing,

The arrival in Shotia

2011-04-15T14:39:00.024+02:00

28th November 5000

Soon the still nameless skyship was hovering southwards above the Boari Delta, beams of the setting sun where reflecting over the muddy water while the usual dark grey afternoon rain clouds were amassing over the jungle. The company looked one more time at the picture of the water shining like molten copper, the green hell northwards and the heavy storm clouds hanging over it. occasional flashes of the brewing storm were visible in the mass but luckily for them the way southwards seemed free of any turbulence.

After crossing the Tentarias the path of the ship led them to the west of the Syien Range, they flew over fertile landscapes and over Lake Lucien and Fohatina.

the trip went on uneventful, all members busy sorting out their equipment, thoughts and plans for the future, one day they crossed a large areas of hills between two mountain range and crossed the border of Chai. A flight over the Husang forest and a straight of the Mythan Sea soon had them arriving over Mythan Territory and Shotia's towers appeared in sight.

8th December 5000

The skyship got into a parking position over a plazza of gigantic proportion just outside the walls of the city. on the ground the company could see hundreds of caravan moving to and fro, all with one common goal. passing the large gate into the city. a few other skyships were also quietly hovering above the place. As soon as their maneuver was completed Captain Padoka climbed down to the ground and headed to the quartermaster's office. Time passed by and around half an hour later he was again on deck of the Skyship briefing the Company:

"Here are the red badges, put them on and always carry them around, these are your permits to stay in the city. they are valid for three days. I am sure that you will want to stay longer there, that means you'll want to have a white badge. these ones allow you to stay seven days in the city. But under no circumstance ask for one directly. You will get one automatically with a work-permit should you manage to find some work here."

He looked at them sternly and went on.

"This is a civilized place, the guards here don't like jokes. You may - and should - carry some weapon but don't make use of it, you will be severely punished."
The company nodded in agreement, but they weren't actually listening to him, the sight of the grey and white city with it's blue shimmering roofs was calling for them. Padoka sighed and looked down at the company like they were a bunch of pre-school children. "I will do some errands of my own, I don't want you to stir trouble, understood ?" Nodding. he stared at the dwarves. " no drunken gunfights" then he stared at Alast "no prostitution" he moved on to stare at Erleothir "no .... whatever"

To ease the tension Jack joined in the discussion: "and before you leave... any idea of you finally found a name for our flying home?" A few proposals were made and finally all agreed on "The Dragonfly" in remembrance of the necklace Erleothir lost in the underwater temple of the Boari.

"One more thing" added Padoka while leaning over the reeling as the adventurers were climbing down "Absolutely, positively no burning down any building around here...."

And there they were, passing through the gigantic east gate of the capital of Mythan. The city was large and pompous, it's port was protect by a natural coral reef to the west and to the south the large military complex hat a good overview over the bay and the strait to the north. To the east the great plazza was bordered by large mountains and cliffs. the city itself was fairly organized, there were a large crafting district and to the south a merchant district, both enclosing the city center with its temples and administrative buildings as well as the embassies.

The two dwarves were obviously completely overwhelmed by the size of the city and its inhabitants. They soon lost each others in the crowd of the crafting district. While Gustavius headed for the Bor Embassy in hope to change some money Mulchanor looked for a nice store where he hoped to work find a job and eventually the so dearly required white pass. he soon found a suitable store and started chatting with Rakuniki, the master and owner of the shop. Rakuniki was not too impressed with Mulchanor's equipment and the state of his weapons but as chance had it he needed a runner. someone to carry some materials around in town for him. Someone discreet and unsuspicious, someone not from here, someone none would recognize or remember. the crates were to be kept as closed shut as the mouth of the transporter itself. not a problem for Mulchanor, he quickly agreed and not only managed to get the white pass but also a free stay at a nearby inn for the week.

Rakuniki sent him immediately to his first errand: "go grab me some beer!"

meanwhile Gus faced the obtuseness of his kinsmen at the gate of his embassy and suddenly came to the embarrassed idea that he had no clue what he was doing there in the first place. probably the weather, time difference or culture shock. he decided to head back to the crafters area and as chance had it, he landed right in Rakuniki's store. after some embarrassed presentation he asked if there might be job for him in the store. Rakuniki shrugged "if you had arrived one hour earlier you would have gotten one. but now i'm afraid i can't do much for you..." Gus had no clue what Rakuniki was talking about nor was he aware That Mulchanor had been faster than him. "well maybe i can show you the superiority of my crafted wares" he added while showing his double barreled pistol.

That had immediate effect. Rakuniki's eyes lightened up. "ooh shiny ! ahem .. I mean.. not bad." soon a deal was closed, Gustavius would craft anther of those guns for Rakuniki and help him in the forge. as a return he would get free materials allowing to craft himself some additional gadgets during the week.

As Mulchanor came back from his errand with a miniature Keg he was surprised to see Gustavius working for the same dwarf as himself but both pretended not to know each other. Rakuniki then decided to put Mulchanor also to work at the forge, "no worries.. i'll find someone else for those errands, you might be more valuable helping this fellow craft my... i mean "some" new weapons."

Both went on happily working, the day and their arrival in Shotia was until now running absolutely perfectly, jobs, ale, a nice inn nearby. for a moment all troubles seemed washed away and it was soon time to head to the meeting with their friends at the guild house of the crystal star.

While it was clear to all that the dwarves would wander in the craftsmen area, it was a safe bet to say that Rameldin would go on a shopping spree after staying so long isolated in the Boari Jungle. What surprised everyone though, was to hear Yesnarel exclaim "Rameldin ! I'll go with you, I also need some ... stuff. " And Alast to complete " I'll join". That was a pretty unlikely group and Rameldin was obviously not so satisfied with that development. It didn't take her long to upset and send Alast in the opposite direction. She tried hard to get rid of Yesnarel too but he was persistent and the wide streets, though busy, were not crowded enough for her to lose him. But why would she do that ? As they were strolling down the street, entering each and every store on the way, they casually talked, getting to know one another. Yesnarel wasn't too keen on talking about the company "mission" and being somehow new himself, he couldn't precisely explain what brought them all together. He was also curious to understand some of Rameldin comments regarding the group dynamic...

After a full morning shopping for ink, tissues and other toiletry items ( oh the importance of choosing the right perfumed soap !) , it's a smiling Rameldin, carrying a full brand new basket and a slightly tired Yesnarel who made their way to the center part of Shotia. There, Rameldin insisted on visiting the temple where her cousin was living. They asked their way to the guard at the entrance of the administrative district and started north as indicated. Quickly, Rameldin brought back the topic of splitting... and again Yesnarel was insisting on escorting her to the door of the temple, knowing full well he wouldn't be allowed to enter. Evoking the shotian architecture and the palaces south of the district was to no avail.

Caught in their animated but polite conversation, Rameldin bumped in Alan, a friend of hers.

"Rameldin ! What are you doing here ? You know walking like that on your own is not safe... "

" Alan ! what a happy coincidence ! I haven't seen you in so long ! I was shopping with another friend, Yesnarel, and was now on my way to my cousin at the temple. "

" Let me then accompany you, we can catch up on the way. "

All at her happiness, Rameldin waved Yesnarel good bye and grabbed Alan's arm. Both started in direction of the temple. Yesnarel had had barely enough time to salute before being left alone. He slowly resumed his walk, following them from afar... until someone bumped into him at a crossroad. He quickly checked his pockets : nothing stolen. But when he looked up again, there was no sign of either Rameldin or her friend. Sighing, he looked around and decided to keep the afternoon for himself. There would be explanations at diner.

Alast proved his hideous nature and looked for shady places. Hence the city was strictly kept in order by the guards, he finally ended up hanging around in the harbor area. He came back with new clothes. Nobody knows where he got them from. Last but not least Erleothir spent a day on his own. Later that day the company gathered at the crystal star embassy. They were led to a big table. Unfortunately it was without name tags. So they had a childish discussion about who was to sit next to whom. Finally Ionevan entered the dinner room. He had not only warm words of welcome on his lips but also a valuable present for each one of his guests. Then he quickly came to the point: " We found a way how you can meet the leader of the thieves guild. " Everybody was hanging on his lips now. "Of course he is hiding in a secret place. You cannot simply meet him. We arranged a meeting in two weeks ... down in the sewers." Not a pleasant place for a meeting, the company wanted to get down all the same. Ionevan continued to explain the details. Everybody was to find work for 1 Week. Afterwards they would be hired by the city council for another week to clean the canals. "Cleaning means killing" said Ionevan with a little grin in his face. After a week down in the sewers without daylight the company would meet the leader of the thieves guild. The salary would be 600 GM. "When will the city council pay us for the work ?" asked a voice from the back. "After doing your job" replied Ionevan. "The city council has saved some money by paying afterwards." and again he had this little grin in his face. So everybody continued doing his own stuff for a week. Alast and Erleothir found work on a boat. And now the company is having the last meal before entering the canals, awaiting unknown beasts and evil danger.

XP:
Yesnarel: 500xp global playing, 200 xp Blog, Choosing a name for the skyship 150 xp, 200xp to shop and annoy Rameldin, 200xp for playing out of the box,
Alast: 500xp global playing, Choosing a name for the skyship 150 xp, 75 xp to be annoying with Rameldin, 200 xp for special duties,
Erleothir: 500xp global playing, Choosing a name for the skyship 200 xp, 200 xp for playing it hard,
Rameldin: 500xp global playing, 200 xp Blog, Choosing a name for the skyship 150 xp, 200 xp for the shopping and getting rid of annoyances, 100xp for a quiet week,
Mulchanor: 500xp global playing, Choosing a name for the skyship 150 xp, 200 xp for dealing well with Rakuniki, 50 xp for fainting not knowing each others,
Gustavius: 500xp global playing, 200 xp Blog, Choosing a name for the skyship 150 xp, 200 xp for dealing well with the Embassy, 50 xp for fainting not knowing each others, 150 xp for twisting fate even more,

Asking for justice

2011-03-21T22:34:00.014+01:00

28th November 5000

From the deck where he was on guard, Jack saw a little group approach the ship. He quickly counted 7 guards, 5 prisoners and 2 persons opening the way. He cursed in his beard. It didn't take him long to understand what was going on. Besides the Green Rat, there wasn't anything on this side of the shore... and no one important enough to be escorted. Someone would however consider himself important enough to need a personal guard.... As they came closer, his eyes inadvertently met those of the leader. He cursed louder. There was nowhere to hide now. Leaving his position, he ran to the cabin : "Captain ! Captain ! Someone is here to see you !"

Enuri, to whom Rameldin was walking close, chatting, stopped before getting under the aircraft. Lifting his eyes to the ship, he called : "Padoka ! my old friend ! Won't you come and salute me ? Don't be shy and come here. We have things to discuss".

Meanwhile, Jack had managed to find the Captain and drag him out of his studies. He leaned over the railing and forcing a smile acknowledged Enuri. "Enuri ! What are you doing here ?"

The prisoners didn't miss the accusatory look, of course it was their fault that Enuri came to learn of his presence. Sighing, Padoka gestured for the crew to unfold the rope ladder and letting them climb. Rameldin was first, followed by Enuri and Takira. The prisoners followed under the solid watch of their guards. On the deck, the mood was dark, except for Enuri who clearly had the upper hand. Soon everybody was made aware of some sort of business left unfinished between the inn owner and the Captain.

There were talks of debts, of responsibility, of guilt even, accusations, explanations and then a mention of trial. Unfortunately, all those talks were done without the prisoners. Every time one of them tried to say something, Takira, Captain of the guard, would toward him and hit with either the butt of her gun, a good kick or a strong push. Gustavius soon ended up on the floor, biting dust, refusing to listen to Mulchanor or Erleothir advices to shut up. Yesnarel and even Alast tried to intercede at get through to Enuri, to no avail. The pouting - whining of Rameldin, to whom her father couldn't refuse anything, wasn't helping them at help. She knew when to cry to catch his attention.

In the end, seeing the conversation wasn't going anywhere, it was suggested to go on trial. The company was actually at first enthusiastic: being innocent, they would for sure win. They quickly discovered the trap though. Being in Valerion, they would have to be judged according to its law and by its judge. They were however just out of the Boari jungle, far from any Valeran institution. They would have to travel to its capital city, Kelis, and would thus waste a precious time on their way to Shotia. In all that, none of the companions had forgotten their original mission.

Rameldin on the other hand was over excited and kept trying to push her dad in that direction to the point that Enuri was seriously considering this option. Since he hadn't been there in a while, he could make use of the trip for some shopping. Erleothir then spontaneously suggested to ask Halukel to be the judge: he was a Father of the Truth after all, wasn't he ? Both parties looked pleased with the idea except Rameldin who was now pouting.

Having found the judge, it was easier to select the attorneys. For some mysterious reasons, Enuri trusted Padoka with this role and the young Yesnarel was chosen to represent his companions on the idea that his knowledge of court and diplomacy would be a bonus. Each group took a while to discuss their strategy. From the side, one could see that Padoka wasn't discussing much but agreeing a lot. What kind of history did the Captain and the inn owner had ? No time to wonder about that. The audience - taking place in the kitche, was about to start.

Halukel was obviously taking the situation very seriously. He opened the trial with a long and inspired speech.

Padoka opened the session by telling his version of the fact as seen by Enuri. Yesnarel countered with a few selected questions about the inn security and focusing on how a bomb could be introduced in the main room. There were talks about a certain "Mister K." : regular visitor and guest. his quire was also mentioned, a good lad from Summerlund. Conclusion : Mister K was beyond suspicion.

Rameldin came to testify after her father. She got all emotional clearly trying to get the heart of the judge, repeating over and over again that her mother was dead and that they killed her. Between sobs, she also talked about the fight and how killing the pirate was a diversion, so that the bag could be left behind and the poor Xcéphia would die. To her, it was clearly all planned, it had been a trap. She couldn't figure the motive but she was convinced that those foreigners came in looking for a fight. Once more, Yesnarel tried his bast to weaken the accusation and was actually doing a pretty good job.

During the break, Padoka and Enuri worked on negotiation. They started the session with their offer : they would die if they were proven guilty, but they could pay for the inn damages all at once ( 30 000 gold coins, how hard could it be ? ) or pay 1000 Gold a month with only a 20% penalty for unpaid months. They didn't even consider those options, Erleothir even laughed out loud at something so "ridiculous". That was before Alast was called to testify ... before he confirmed that yes Mulchanor and Gustavius had been seen carrying and even crafting bombs... yes, they laughed before, when they thought they were winning.

Seeing how Halukel was changing his mind and not willing to lose the money ( who would pay if they received the death sentence ? ). Halukel would be satisfied and Enuri would have to use his savings to rebuilt the inn which had already burnt too many times and was getting really expensive.

Using a second break, Enuri widened his offers, hoping that this time they wouldn't be too foolish to refuse. The session reopened and Padoka started right away :

" Let's say you are innocent ... then Karnelian would be the culprit. And to prove that, we will have to find him first. So, here is the deal. You'll pay 200 gold coins a month until the debt is paid or you bring Karnelian back. If you manage that, then I'll repay you 25% of the sum received. Of course, just like before, if you miss a payment, you'll have a 20% penalty the following month. How does that sound ? "

Yesnarel knew this was the last offer and before anyone could ruin it, he motioned for everyone to shut up. He then thanked Enuri for the offer and asked for a few minutes with his friends to take their decision. He of course returned with a positive answer and details were quickly discussed : Rameldin would travel with them and would make sure the money would be paid on time and properly delivered.

Though they did manage to avoid death, there was little celebration that night. Indeed, Rameldin wasn't exactly who they would pick as "adventure partner number 1". To sum it up : they had lost a warrior and were now gaining a spoiled whining brat... But who could tell what talents she had in store for them ?

Welcome to the Green Rat !

2011-03-05T14:47:00.037+01:00

28th November 5000

After the guards at the entrance had vanished behind a side door with their equipment, the group stepped to the next one and discovered a huge room on the other side. Two long tables were using most of the place and it seemed that a hundred pirates, buccaneers and sea adventurers were sitting on either sides, happily drinking, playing and cheering at one another. The wooden paneled room was lacking windows and was enlightened by some large iron braziers. At the other end of the room, a large balcony could be seen and a few dwarven guards were keeping an eye on the festivities from there. On the left, there was a large curtain behind which the waitresses disappeared and reappeared, carrying frothy pints and large trays of food.

As the company was sitting at the end of one of the tables, Gustavius decided to take a quick peek behind the curtains and, as he stepped further, he discovered a second smaller and more comfortable room. There were a few tables and a large bar to his left, its shelves were displaying all kinds of liquors and glasses. At the opposite corner, one could see a staircase leading up to the balcony which was in fact running all along the wall. Access to the stairs was guarded by a bored dwarf.

Gustavius turned to one of the barmaid and started a little conversation while asking for a local drink. The waitress, Rameldin, informed him of the inn qualities and charms, of its guest rooms. When he mentioned that they were waiting for a friend, she replied that no, unfortunately, she could not remember having seen a Sommerlander lately. However pleasant the conversation was, she had business to attend to and she interrupted the conversation before the dwarf could ask all his questions.

In the meantime, the group had met the other waitress, Malatania, and ordered some beer and roasted meat. They were discussing about the options the Green Rat offered. There were two empty rooms left and as it seemed that Eolfrid had not shown up yet, they decided to rent a room so as to leave only one available. They were hoping this would force Eolfrid to take this one when he arrives. Seeing how little privacy the main room offered, he surely would then meet Karnelian there. Moreover, booking a room would grant the company access to the first floor. The rules were clear however : a room is for 3 persons only and no one climbs the stairs without proving he carries the key.

Meanwhile, curious of the people and their games, Erleothir observed the pirates and asked the waitress to explain the rules, Mulchanor was also intending to learn more and asked her about the visitors and usual guests of the Green Rat. Xcephia couldn't stay forever though, she had other tables to wait and was getting uncomfortable having to answer all those questions. One of the dwarves came to their table soon after she left. From the red band on her right arm, Erleothir assumed she was one of the captains. She nicely though clearly told them to stop harassing people, workers and guests alike. They quietly agreed even if this reaction somehow surprised them. While they were chatting and working on something vaguely similar to a plan of action, an old mage entered the inn. It would not have been of real interest if he had not loudly called : "Yesnarel ! my old friend! What a pleasant surprise to see you here!" and without further introduction, he seated himself right next to the group.

Yesnarel enthusiastically welcomed his fellow companion too "Oh my ! Father XYZ, it's so nice to see you again!" .

While Mulchanor and Gustavius stared at each other in a most absent-minded way, still unsure about asking Yesnarel more about the newcomer, Erleothir chocked on his beer after getting a better look at the face of the old mage. He lowered his voice to a conspiratorial whisper and turned to his two dwarven companions "Do not worry about him my friends, it's just..."

"ALAST!!" shouted a voice next to them. They had no time to jump of surprise that Xcephia, the second waitress, went on : "I hope for you that you're here to pay your debts" . Alast, because it was indeed him, tried briefly to keep his identity secret but he quickly had to admit the truth and the whole table could listen to their argument. Turned out Alast hadn't payed for her services the last time he stopped at the inn and she was determined to get her money. Seeing it was taking too long for him to unlace his purse, she motioned for the guards to come closer.

The groups sighed as the argument escalated and Mulchanor decided it was the perfect time to pay a visit to Sareftin. He walked to the bar, followed by Yesnarel who wanted to proceed with the room arrangement. Yesnarel talked to Rameldin and payed to get the room 10, last in the hall, on the left. Mulchanor, carrying his raccoon, addressed the older woman and gave it to her as he promised Jack. He engaged in a short conversation and the company, gathering clues, understood that the inn was a family run business. Enuri was the father and owner of the Green Rat that he ran together with his wife, Sareftin and Rameldin, their daughter. The family didn't look that perfect though in regard of the letter Sareftin discreetly handed back to Mulchanor, asking him to give it to Jack. All the dwarves around were hired security, they couldn't possibly keep it under control without them.

Yesnarel and Mulchanor were now slowly coming back to the table where the conversation between Malatania and Alast wasn't over. It was getting boring for the outsiders and as they were looking around, Gus and Leo happened to see the barmaid spill a drink on a hooded guest. It looked suspicious to them, as if she had done it on purpose. They looked at one another, wondering but before they could discuss it, to their surprise, they saw Eolfrid stepping in the main room. Coming from behind the curtains, and seating right in front of the hooded man.

" How did he manage to arrive before us ?! " Their strategy would had to be rethought ... Nothing was going according to plan.

By then, Malatania was done with her scene and a grim Alast, still disguised, was now silent, he had lost and ended up paying the full 150 Gold pieces she asked him for. And he knew he would give even more as it was now Sareftin's turn to present her bill. Clearly, he should have sticked to his idea of staying on the ship.

His companions attention was entirely on Eolfrid and the mysterious man he was talking to. The conversation couldn't be overheard because of the noise in the room. They all focused very hard all the same to decipher as much as they could from the positions, the moves, the general expression. If Eolfrid's face was open, the hooded guy couldn't be seen at all. It was clear to all that they were in disagreement and suddenly, the hooded man slapped Eolfrid who remained collected. The company was now certain it was Karnelian. They all were equally puzzled. And Malatania coming back to Leo, holding out a message from Eolfrid wasn't bringing any answer.

Eolfrid was now standing, followed by Karnelian. The conversation was over, they were about to leave and the little group would lose them. It was time to act, to do something : but what ? As usual, the company suffered of its lack of cohesion. No one could decide and so Gustavius played it all on a hunch.

He stood up and loudly proclaimed : "Ladies and Gentlemen ! We have a hero here !" while pointing at Eolfrid. Seeing no reaction whether from the guests in the tavern nor from Eolfrid who continued walking towards the second room he went on acting drunk and proclaiming "One of the greatest heroes of the Tantarias, the scourge of the pirates !" Unfortunatley no-one reacted. Except for Karnelian and a pirate accolyte who headed straight for Erleothir asking who the leader in the group was. Erleothir, probably still under the shock of Gustavius completely unprepared intervention simply pointed at him "he is."

While realising at the same moment it was a mistake, both Mulchanor and himself stood up and quickly followed Karnelian, right in time to see him facing down Gustavius, plunging a knife in the back of his own accolyte and yelling for murder before anyone could react.

This time the people in the room reacted. A group of pirates jumped at Mulchanor and immobilized him on the ground, Gustavius was suddenly dragged away in the small room behind the bar by some of the guards. It was in fact a small prison. Soon enough he was in the company of a slightly beaten up Mulchanor. And then, only seconds later, by Erleothir as well.

Karnelian had fled to the top floor and they had lost all traces of Eolfrid.

At the table, in the main hall, Alast and Yesnarel were perfectly fine though and making the best efforts not to get caught into anything. They went on drinking and eating casually.
Normality was quickly coming back...

Until one of the waitresses, Xcephia, noticed that there was a big package at the place where Karnelian and Eolfrid where sitting a few moments ago. As she called for a dwarf to help her carry the bag away, it exploded in a large ball of fire and heat.

The shockwave was so strong that the complete building shook. In their prison cell, the 3 friends could feel the rumble. The guards left the prison to see what had happened. Immediatly Mulchanor picked the lock of their cell, before leaving, the dwarves quickly looted the chests near the bunkbeds, while Erleothir stood watch at the door. Their devised plan to disguise themselves as dwarven guard escorting the prisoner out failed since no uniform could be found in the chests. But, to their joy they discovered 2 pistols and 10 shots.

In the meantime the guards had started the evacuation of the building, the flames were spreading, devouring the wooden furnitures and panels, thick black smoke was slowly starting to accumulate.

Still doing their best to look inconspicious Alast and Yesnarel were calmly finishing their dishes and tankards while the place burned around them.
"shouldn't we do something?" asked Yesnarel
"nah, I really don't want trouble here" replied Alast with indifference.

Knowing that her mother, Sareftin, was upstairs in the guestrooms and the whole building was about to collapse, Rameldin ran upstairs, taking with her the guard who was still standing watch at the stairs. Erleothir, Gustavius and Mulchanor choose that moment to get out of their prison. They crossed the room and rushed up the stairs as well.

They crossed the threshold and found Rameldin crying over her mother. Sareftin was dead. Through sobs, Rameldin lifted her head and soon spotted the companions : "the prisoners and murderers are fleeing ! stop them!"

During the ongoing evacuation some foolhardy pirates suddenly jumped over the counter to the armory and started pillaging the place. Yesnarel immediately reacted outraged and was encouraging Alast to do something. That's when a guard shot a fleeing pirate, whose arms were fully loaded with loot. Logically, and for their own interest, they decided to follow the orders of the guards overseeing the evacuation and quickly stopping the robberies. The dwarven guards did not only evacuated the guests but also took care of the equipments and weapons, putting those on two different piles in front of the the building. Soon everyone was outside the inn, the Green Rat was now completely ablaze.

The situation inside had not improved for our three heroes, they were encircled by flames. As they were slowly advancing on the balcony, Erleothir managed to throw the first guard over the railing. The two other guards who were rushing for them did not made it as a burning beam collapsed over them. Rameldin had disappeared. Erleothir broke open the door of the room he last saw Karnelian going in, but they were far too late. The room was empty, so was the open chest at the end of the bed. Suddenly a loud noise was to be heard, the stairs just had collapsed leaving them only one possible way out. One after the other they jumped out of the window. First Erleothir quickly followed by Mulchanor.

After Gustavius jumped off the window, at the precise moment it collapsed, they all stood in an alley. On their right, the inn was still burning, unrecognizable. On their left, two other buildings were in flames. A man was standing in the middle of it, and the young barmaid was at his side. She was completely panicked and ran to the guards as soon as she spotted the three survivors. Her yells were clear, to her they were the culprits and she was urging the men to arrest them, repeating how dangerous they were. There was nothing Erleothir or the dwarves could say to calm her down or plead their case. The man was all about the girl, he was his dad apparently,the owner of the Inn then : Enuri. That was just great.

All three mentioned the hooded man, Karnelian. All the man was listening to was what her daughter was saying : his wife was dead in a fire started by those men and their companions after a fight with a pirate they ended up killing. That they broke free from the cell they had been placed into. That they had been trying to escape. There was nothing to shut her up. Their only break was when a little furry thing brought her something. She kissed the animal and seemed somehow relieved.

As the men were pleading their case, they got punched KO by the guards : too much insolence or disrespect. Listing the security weaknesses, asking for their money back, talking about Huldrak made no difference. Erleothir finally said the name "Halukel" and with that caught Enuri's attention.

"Halukel ? but he lives in the fort in the forest. You want me to believe he is here ?"

Forgetting all caution, Leo went on and mistakenly added " yes he is here, we all came with the airship, driven by Captain Padoka "

The moment the name was out he realized that was too much. Enuri's eyes shone of interest. " Padoka is here ? Ohh, what a pleasant surprise... we'll make a lot of money then ... Take me to him, and no trap. " Following the instructions, they all walked back to the ship... The meeting would sure be entertaining.

Day and night: there is no rest for heroes !

2011-02-01T20:33:00.026+01:00

26th November 5000

Alast was the first to move, he came closer to the anapheg and Griselda's body and bowed in a solemn farewell. Yesnarel decided to stay aside but remained silent all the same. Mulchanor wasn't so quiet. He was taken by disbelief and kept saying : "She's dead. Dead. Gone. She is ... dead. No, she is dead." Erleothir joined Alast in his prayers and knelt beside him, facing the corpse. There wasn't much left. Only her right side was recognizable, still though, far from complete. If he was also affected by this loss, Gustavius showed nothing of it. He was much more interested in the camp and, followed by Alast, he started searching the giaks and their tents. Mulchanor sort of woke up from his shock and jumped on the anapheg at the knight's surprise . He ferouciously started digging in its jaws, using his claws, seemingly trying to get some of its teeth. Not daring to interfere, the company left him to his bloody task and went on with the problem at hands. Yesnarel picked up some of the heldeghast's ashes and Alast helped Erleothir to dig a grave for their companion. Mulchanor and Gustavius watched from afar. The first only reacted when his friends approached her. "Don't touch her ! I'll carry her".

He jumped down from the anapheg and walked to the Telchos' side. He stood there at lost for a while : where could he start ? How would he carry this bloody mess ? Realizing he needed help, the knight walked forward and grabbed the leg. Mulchanor followed his lead and took the arm. They did their best to carry the body with respect and laid her in her grave. Mulchanor, this time driven by anger, kicked in the dirt, sending it flying and falling over her.

After a touching speech from their mage, speech concluded by an unfortunate "May you rest in pieces" - the emotion surely - the company decided of the best course of action to set.
If Mulchanor was determined to go south, Erleothir had no idea. They were indeed left in a bad position. On the tree to which the boat was left attached, there was now only a little note for the knight. Nothing really precised but an interesting name "the Green Rat" caught everyone's attention. According to Eolfrid, that was where Karnelian would be hidding.
But to get there, they would first have to cross the river, to come back to the ship. The discussion was again animated to say the least. Luckily for them, there was no beast or enemies around. It didn't stop Erleothir to check around and he suddenly hushed them all. " Get down !"
Even that was difficult for them to respect. Alast ducked as instructed but asked loudly, "What's wrong ?". Still angry, Mulchanor persisted : "And I say we walk south untill we find a bridge or the Green Rat . What do you want to wait here for ? The bridge to appear here overnight ?"

The danger of whatever Erleothir had seen or sensed was gone. Gustavius then decided to use his gun to signal their position to the crew of the Nameless ship. If the light of the shot might have been missed, the sound of both the bullet and the exploding gun was sure to catch someone's attention. " Damn it !" The dwarf still checked the result and thought he heard something, a voice ... All looked around, was there someone coming ? Mulchanor was still at a loss and lifted his eyes to the sky, looking for a Kraan maybe...

The sound was heard again, a voice. Gustavius decided to call in Drodarin. If the newcomers were indeed rescue, they would know what to reply : " A ... ei... re !" To the general surprise of the group, it's Alast who understood that yes, it was Jack and a few crew members on a raft, slowly reaching them.

Their friend welcomed them on board. He was clearly impresses and disgusted by their appearance and smell. Little did he know that Alast was carrying the anapheg's head in a backpack... He hadn't seen everything yet . After checking the speed of the boat, Yesnarel decided to undress and jump in the water to wash. None of his companions followed. Seated at the front, Mulchanor was mumbling : " Nice speech, we'll miss you and blablabla, valourous warrior. All hypocrites, they don't even see that she is missing." He turned to Jack. "Where is the kitchen ?" Jack placed an arm on his shoulder with sympathy. "I don't know what happened there but it clearly wasn't pretty . The kitchen is on the ship, we're almost there ... "

Once aboard, Mulchanor didn't waste time and went straight to the kitchen. Jack signaled to the crew to let him be and then turned to the company. Leo started immediatly asking their friend about the inn. All were of course curious to learn more about what would more likely than not, be their next step. The Green Rat was four day away by boat, two only with the airship. That was already good news : Eolfrid might be ahead, it wouldn't take them long to catch up with him. Beside that, Jack didn't have much to say but he was surprised that Alast had never heard of this rather famous and respected inn just a few miles away north of the Shadaki border.

Though all were impatient to now report to Alukel and finally rest, none was enthusiastic to the point of actually go and get him out of the cabin where he was again "studying". A dwarf called him nonetheless and the little group, Leo, Alast, Gus and Yesnarel was soon facing the priest. He was having obvious difficulties to stand and probably even more to understand, which was lucky since the tale of the fight was rather confused.

The instruction had been clear : they had to go after "the Telchos" and "the Bear", kill them and bring their head. Then, why were they carrying an anapheg's stinky, bloody and scary head along with a vial of ashes ?
Yesnarel proceeded to tell about the heldeghast using Griseto's already dead body. Proudly exhibiting the anapheg's head, Alast stayed short of words when asked about Griselda. Nobody noticed Mulchanor coming back on deck. He listened to them for a while, muttering "fools" but he reacted immediately to his companions cowardise. "She's dead. She died in the fight against the Hedelgast. Why don't you just say the truth ? She is dead".

Alast tried to appease the suffering dwarf but his friendly hand on his shoulder was brutally shaken off. And with that, Alast couldn't hold it anymore. He had been trying all day long to understand Mulchanor's shifts of mood. He had been patient and he couldn't stand it anymore. Of course Mulchanor was the most affected of them but it didn't give him any rights and his moods would have to be contained. Alast tried to punch the dwarf but missed. Leo and Gus quickly intervene to separate them : it really wasn't good to publicly appear so disorganized.

In the conversation, Alukel had unvoluntarily given away some elements about a temple nearby. Gus and the mage certainly didn't fail to notice it.
So, while Mulchanor went back to his room escorted by Leo to whom he wanted to talk in private, Yesnarel decided to press on the subject. The Captain and the priest were already back in their cabin so he knocked on their door and entered politely. Padoka had already fallen back asleep and Alukel was happily drinking from a bottle of some hard liquor sitting on the desk. Taking the bottle away and pushing it aside, the mage took on his serious face and started : "Well, well, well my friend ... ".
The young mage had definitely grown up at court. He seemed perfectly at ease and not so much impressed by his elder. Using the bottle to make pressure on the priest, he asked question after question, rewarding him with a drink for the details and hidding the precious liquid when getting unsatisfactory answers. All the while remaining polite and pleasant, never rising his voice and always thinking quickly.
After a half hour, he met his companions on the deck, they were waiting for him to give a full report. Obviously proud of himself, he sent Leo back to the rooms, to get Mulchanor, saying he would explain once all gathered in the kitchen. Alast asked for a few minutes to wash before hand as the anapheg's smell was getting more disturbing by the minute. Yesnarel simply replied, grinning " I do not think that bathing will be an issue ".
The kitchen was an odd place to meet, heart of the ship, it was rarely deserted and they couldn't expect much privacy . It was decided that Gus would ask Jack to empty the place for them, too bad that he actually forgot. All were already caught in the tale of Yesnarel and failed to notice when their friend sat at the end of the table, listening attentively too.
"... so, there is a temple, under the water, just a few minutes away from here. One first has to dive to reach it and then, there is no possibility to breath. The place has been left mostly untouched... There is however a secret way to visit the place ... and it's right... here " His friends moved closer as he produced something out of his pockets. " Roots ?" they asked. Yesnarel's grin was now even wider. " Yes, roots. Chewing those roots will enable anyone to remain for up to two hours under water, without breathing".
The knight was a little dubious and eyed the roots suspiciously. Gus and Alast were much more enthusiastic and almost ready to go. Mulchanor stopped them with his comments. " And why should we care about a temple in the first place ? Don't you want to get to Karnelian ? Find Eolfrid ? "
" But we only need two days to get to the Green Rat, Eolfrid will take double that time ! We can take a few hours and check this temple... " started Gustavius.
" What for ? Leo, don't you want to go to the Green Rat too ? Isn't it what we agreed to ?"
" Well, true, but Gustavius is right too, we have time to do both ... "
" Plus," intervened Jack, " you have to wait for Padoka and he won't give you the go before daylight. "
" You're all disgusting. I'm telling you, I'm not going there. And we'd better leave first thing in the morning tomorrow... " With those final words, Mulchanor stood and left for his room. His mood didn't discourage the others, they were excited at the prospect of a new adventure.

Shortly after the sun rose above the thick jungle foliage, a small group was gathering on the bank of the river. Alast, Erleothir, Gustavius and Yesnarel together with 2 dwarves started rowing towards the center of the mighty stream. They had traded their armors for light clothing and left all their equipment behind. Soon enough, the boat stopped near a small turbulence in the streams.

Our four heroes disappeared beneath the waves while the dwarves waited, rowing in circles... Time passed by, uneventful. Slowly, the clear water grew dirty, the turbulence grew bigger and all of a sudden a large fountain of water erupted. Then it was calm again and shortly after that, the four adventurers reappeared, unharmed. While Erleothir seemed unhappy but determined, Gustavius had a bright grin on his face.

As all of them boarded the skyship again, a short discussion between Yesnarel and his companions could be overheard. "So, why do you think god's creation was incomplete ?" - "hmppf, no idea, honestly I don't think this is important now" said Gus with a shrug "but I'm curious, do you have a second riddle ready ?"

As they disappeared in some corridor of the their flying home, Captain Padoka was slowly awaking from his ethylic dreams. Only two hours had passed since they left and soon the skyship would follow the river southwards.

The following morning, Mulchanor's mood hadn't improved much. Gustavius went to him and explained that he discussed his gun issue with Jack. Apparently, he still wasn't out of his deal but could "pay" for his weapon by bringing a raccoon to "Sareftin", a woman he would find at the Green Rat.

After a day and a few hours flying, the inn was in sight and another surprise awaited the group. Padoka came out of the cabin and left them very strict instructions " Do not mention that I'm here. Do not even mention that you know me. Do not ever mention the name Padoka to Enuri. Is that clear ? " All nodded their understanding.
Alast added more timidly " Well, if possible, I'd like to stay on the ship while you visit the place... I don't really want to go there... And don't mention my name either. Not to Enuri, not to anyone. Just pretend you do not know me. Ok ? "

No one asked why, they more or less shuddered and excitedly looked as the ground came closer. Mulchanor was the first to climb down the ladder, leading the group. There was energy in his steps and a smile on his face. The inn was big and clearly richer than the one they stayed at in Ljuk. They entered the yard and saluted the guards. They then came in the cloakroom and left their weapons, armours and other potentially dangerous items in exchange of a blue token. Mulchanor's special gauntlet went unnoticed though...

Field of Silence

2011-01-08T23:33:00.094+01:00

26th November 5000
Positioned near the entrance of the camp Yesnarel climbed into a tree observing the surroundings while securing the exit at the same time. Ahead he could clearly see Gustavius hiding on his left behind high bushes. Lurking near a group of five tired giaks. A few meters ahead at the center of the camp, Griselda faced Griseto while Erleothir seemed to measure Eolfrid with his look. On their left was another group of camping giaks, five of them to be exact. Completely unaware of an already aiming Mulchanor. Waiting for the signal. At the right side of this little gathering, Alast was playing with his sword behind a tree. Counting the giaks in front of him. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Perfectly doable for his skills.
Tension aroused as time flew without signal nor agreement. At last, something happened. Movement between the Telchos. Griseto was stopped by Griselda but she counter attack her sending her flipping on the floor. She turned to Eolfrid and coldly she ordered:

- Find Karnelian inform him of the situation!

Eolfrid doubted for a second and before moving looked at Erleothir and just said:

-Save her!

Following Griseto order Eolfrid ran straight into the forest not giving any attention to Erleothir requests for stopping. His questions won't be answered today. Mulchanor gave away his position when he fired at him, cutting down a frail tree ahead of Eolfrid. Both Erleothir and Alast ran after him trying to catch the fugitive. The giaks in front of Mulchanor ran toward him as Griseto ordered them, now aware of the menace he represented.
Eolfrid and Alast were too fast for Eleothir and he could only turn back to finish a fight he haven't started yet. Mulchanor shot ahead killing three giaks with his first blast. Gustavius thrown a grenade to the running giak group but one of them jumped on the device in an heroic move more due to reflexes than to a sense of duty. All the others were now lying on the dirt due to the shockwave. Coming back as fast as possible Erleothir found a chaotic battlefield where sides where mixing at the favour of the moment. Gustavius was overwhelmed by the remaining four giaks. Yesnarel was not here, dead or up a tree. Griselda was trying to convince her fellow Telchos to help them to add her strength to her group against the coming Anapheg. It came running from behind Mulchanors position, he trampled Mulchanor while he avoided by seconds its charge. Facing the two remaining giaks, he attacked them while Mulchanor shot him, aiming at his head. The shot was not enough to rip his hard skin. Even if it hurted it. Alast was still running behind Eolfrid went he tried to trick him sending a stone to his right side, hoping he will curve toward the battlefield. But Eolfrid was appointed to a mission and didn't flinch. Meanwhile Griseto was repeatedely hitting Griselda with her spear, deaf to all plea. Again and again Griselda tried to get Griseto back on track. Even the Telchos salute was ignored. Running back to help his friends Alast fought a giak coming at him, looking with a grim eye to the others four right behind it. When Griseldas little patience ran out, she counter attacked with less efficiency. Griselda failed to pinch Griseto with her dart, which ended in the muddy soil, but Griseto was still attacking her merciless of their sisterhood. It was enough for Erleothir to interviene and send Griseto to the field of dreams, letting her unconscious and alive above the humid soil. Putting his never used gun under it's chin, Alast shot, right after the giak turned his head away. Taking quicky his sword, Alast tried to decapitate it with the same sucess as his gunshot. Trying to get behind him, he fainted a strike and back stabbed the giak. With the giaks dangerously near, Gustavius tried to shoot one of them at point blank range, but misses at first. He took him down making him roll in front of him, just in time to shoot him with another pistol. Mulchanor was shooting at the Anapheg in a desperate attempt to flee from the huge beast after ripping part of his head with a gunshot. It was not enough for taking down such animal and it's counter attack sent Mulchanor to the ground with his shoulder dislocated, at the Anapheg's mercy. The dwarfs heavy body fell on an ants nest, killing some in the process. Gustavius kicked a giak who bit him. His fail allowed another one to grab him by behind. Yesnarel climbed down the tree, aiming to rescue Gustavius. Three giaks were going to attack Alast, but Eleothir attracted their attention from Alast and they were now chasing him. Alast was saved, now his duty sent him to the pirate proximity. Griselda, trowing Baknar oil toward some nearby bushes attracted the Anapheg away from Mulchanor, saving his live. Gustavius was still surrounded and managed to avoid being killed by his frontal agressor while Yesnarel tried to poison the giak nearby with a dart. A branch stopped him from striking. Quickly the Sommerlunding used a Thunderstone to blind the giaks in front of him but forgot to close his eyes at the same time. It resulted in a pantomimic of attacks from both sides till the effects dissipated. But after slashing air and dusk giaks and Sommerlunding were apt to cross sword properly. Mulchanor was going to be killed by the remaining two giaks but they saved his life instead. Disrupted in his weak mind the Anapheg forgot Mulchanor for an instant, letting him escape behind a tree. No such luck for the giaks. Trying to relocate his shoulder he fainted with the pain. Yesnarel finally got his arm out of the branches and hit the Giak right on his rear end, killing him. Fast as thunder the cunning dwarf used a tree in front of him as a spring to jump back to the giak holding him. Bones broke. He was dead. Facing the giaks Erleothir used his broadsword mastery and used for the first time his shield to kill. Rapidly , twisted bodies were lying behind the Knight whom was already getting his shield mechanism ready for one more round. Running toward the two Telchos fighting the knight swiftly dispatched a giak whom dare to cross his path using his shield on Griseto whom hit the ground again. Griselda went to give Laumpsur to her Mulchanor rapidly going back to take care of their biggest problem. The anapheg took benefit of the situation by attacking the defenseless Grisoto. A successfull bite in the side made her go down. After the defasting bite, the corpse of Grisoto started to sissle and desolve. No more of her was to be seen, only a blueish corpse irradiating darkness. When the blue corpse stood up, Alast attacked it immediately, not trusting such change. He felt pain when striking it and ran for cover.
The Anapheg attacked both Erleothir and the Telchos. She took the blow and fought back while Erleothir felt unconscious on the floor. Climbing down the tree he yelled:

- An Helghast! Don't attack him on close range! Kill him from afar!

Enough information for the recovered Mulchanor whom shot him but from as far as he should be. The Helghast ripped an hellish sound from what looked like a mouth. Alast felt unconscious near him. Yesnarel courageously approached Erleothir to cure him with more Laumpsur. But no reaction were to be seen, cautiously he took his dagger and pinched the knights back end under his armour. Recovering from his wounds he stood facing now the Anapheg. No time to rejoice as Griselda fought the beast bravely when it caught her in it's jaw. Snatching part of her body apart. Leaving her lifeless on the dirt. It was time for revenge. Erleothir rage unleashed more by desperation than courage, blinding him into a duel of fates with the beast. Yesnarel ran back for cover, letting the knight still with time to reset his shield mechanism on a ready position. Alast, taking advantage of the confusion, cured Mulchanor with laumpsur. Trading sword slashes for deadly bites and shield bashes against claw cuts the forest stopped to breath. Yesnarel freed an energy bolt whom hit the Anapheg, without any apparent effect, but reduced the Helghast to ashes. Avoiding the Anaphegs bite, Erleothir countered by bashing his shield and letting his mechanical saw to run on it's mouth it made the beast felt on one knee, also wounded by Mulchanor shot in his back. Again and again blows were exchanged relentlessly from both parts. With a hard strike from his axe Gustavius send the last giak to the hell pit where it belong. Alast dwas reanimated by Mulchanor. Shots were heard, hitting strongly the trees. Where strength and accuracy failed, tenacity won. The lonely dwarf was now fighting to avenge Griselda. Gustavius tried to finally get a piece of the monster but a misdirected slowing spell from Yesnarel slowed down the dwarf, he barely could move, but kept trying to reach the beast, step by step, shot by shot. Erleothir screamed as the saw velocity was none and continued to release his broadsword on the beast. It started to exhale, gesticulating in a more erratic way, but still deadly way. Another shot hit the beast. The Sommerlunding found his strength where only pain was left and attacked him one more time, hacking, slashing his shield saw was losing power but hurting deep his enemy. The Knight suffered another cut from the terror of the jungle, but he held his ground. One more shot, one more wound. The beast twitched. Removing his shield Eleothir spiked the beast one more time, right in the anaphegs face, whom felt onto her other knee, evading this blow. Falling shortly after forward. decapitated by Erleothir whom second try stroked efficiently. The horrible smell covered the battlefield. Griselda mutilated body was lying near the beast. The forests silence was oppressing. She was dead.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Griselda: Nothing. You're dead my dear. We'll miss you. And we hope your character name will be on your t-shirt next session =) (And Griselda with a †)
Erleothir: 100 xp for the global session, 100 xp for reading the story epically, 500xp for the killing of the critters, 50xp for being the first to provide text for the blog, back boning it, 100xp for fighting like they were no tomorrow, 50xp for using wisely the shield saw (even if you got hit by it),
Mulchanor: 80xp for the global session, 500xp for the killing of the critters, 100 xp for the balls of steel continuously shooting at the beast, 50xp for the lucky shot (3 in a row), 50xp for trying to relocate his shoulder several times, 1xp for killing ants by dozens (43 ants to be precise),
Alast: 75xp for the global session, 500xp for the killing of the critters, 50xp for the stone idea, 50xp for the quick and efficient fight with the last giak
Gustavius: 75 xp for the global session, 500xp for the killing of the critters, 50xp for the grenade move, 100xp for the nice combat with the giaks, 50xp for the WWF move
Yesnarel: 95 xp for the global session, 500xp for the killing of the critters, 50xp for the correct timing of actions, 50xp for the Heldeghast tips while saving Erleothir life, 100xp for the correct use of magic (I still can hear the "Go Mage go!"),
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Head hunters

2010-12-18T23:59:00.064+01:00

25th November 5000
Not having much more to do, the company went back to its quarters. Still unsure about which side the dwarves could be with, Griselda and Mulchanor raised some questions about the safety of the boat. But some quick exchange of words with Jack left them aware of the impossibility of going further that night. They needed information but the informants were... studying. Alukel was actually studying really hard as they could hear. The captain was already finished with his own studies or, at least, was keeping it for himself. As expected the room arrangement was kept unchanged and none argued any more this day.

Another day was rising up, the night had been calm and nothing came from the other side of the river. Whatever was there, it has not come to meet them. Nor to fight them. A late breakfast left our heroes full and rested, ready for another day of search. Many questions were still unanswered and they still needed to know more about this Alukel. Why was he alive? How did he escaped? Gathering on the deck, the company decided to intervene and first ask Jack about this Alukel and how he came on boat. As per usual, Griselda started to train at the boat's bow while the rest of them went directly to Jack, who was supervising the daily routines of a second in command.

After their talk, Mulchanor took Griselda apart, she would have to be careful not to be assimilated to the "bad Telchos running wild". After his first warning, Griselda decided to follow the group and show her good will. She was thus walking alongside her companions, a big fake smile on her face. All in her appearance was showing challenge, her arms were still most of the time crossed, her back hold straight and her steps confident. Climbing the stairs, the group gathered around Jack and tried to get the confirmation of Alukel's good will and usefulness. Not much was said that they didn't previously know . Alukel was a Father of the Truth, a priest of one fanatical group. Fanatical and susceptible. The only accepted Valerion religion was to be respected and not challenged.
He came running toward the boat and informed captain Padoka of the enemies running after him and lurking in the dark. The captain dispatched Jack and some cannons to take care of the issue. They managed to kill them, attacking both sides at once. An easy killing. But a Telchos and a Knight escaped with a few remaining giaks. They took a boat and crossed the river. Returning to the safety of the airship, the captain was already studying with Alukel, and no more action were taken that day.
Not satisfied by this explanation, Erleothir took Jack apart, in hope to get more information as he provided little. He didn't manage to learn much, just enough to confirm that the captain's studies were more of an alcohol problem than science. Jack couldn't betray his captain, but a couple of winks confirmed Erleothir suspicions. As far as Alukel allegiance was concerned, it was all for the Father of the Truth. But one thing was certain, he was an enemy of the Dark Lords. Erleothir didn't add anything else when reporting to his companions after their private meeting. There was little to work on but, with Jack's blessing, they were allowed to wake up the two "scholars" in a couple of hours.

As the company entered the cabin, they were confronted with the putrid stench of alcohol, a smell so strong it would have put an Anapheg out of balance. The two mages had “studied”...
“- We said we don't want to be disturbed. Said Alukel has he woke up.
- Yes, that's what we have been told but we are in great need to talk to you. Replied Erleothir
- You don't need to yell. Erleothir wasn't yelling, the after effect of the alcohol on the mage weren't funny to watch.
- We wanted to know in detail what happened to you and how or why you came here. Explained Erleothir, talking as silently has he could.
-You! The dwarf! And he pointed to Gustavius. Bring me something to eat.”

Gustavius wasn't sure if he was mistaking him for a crew member or if he was just a racist, but one thing was certain, he was talking to him and so he left the room, shaking his head. Alukel didn't wait for his return and started his story:
- The fort's fall was caused by a simultaneous attack from the inside and the outside. A Telchos and a Knight have been allowed to enter the fort as guests. No one in the fort expected them to start breaking havoc in the fortification. They were allied to a herd of Giaks, hidden and waiting outside.

What followed was a bit harder for him to explain. He was still trying to understand it as he talked. But what would have been the talk of a drunken man for some, made sense to the team.

- The knight, when the havoc started, he disappeared and was replaced by a bear.”

With this they knew who the knight was, there was but only one person in the whole Magnamund who could be both a bear and a knight. Many holy men fell that day. When the massacre ended, they took Alukel and asked him what he knew of the artefacts. The answer was simple: nothing. He was then dragged into the forest by the invaders. But luck, or God, was on his side. As Jack explained earlier, the crew of the nameless ship had defeated all the Giaks with an ambush. The bear and the Telchos escaped and Alukel was brought to the nameless ship.
At that moment, the door opened on Gustavius, back with sandwiches. He surely took his time. Alukel continued talking as if he had not noticed the dwarf.
-Your next task will be to bring back the head of this fallen knight and of this Telchos. And beware of your one Telchos, she can't be trusted.

When Alukel mentioned his doubts regarding her allegiance, Griselda immediately saw red and gripped her weapon. If it wasn’t pointing at the priest yet, she was definitely ready to strike anytime. Her knuckles were turning white.
- What do you mean “there is a Telchos with the enemy, I see a Telchos here… and there aren’t that many Telchos out of their desert” ? Are you saying I’m a traitor and an enemy ?

Alukel was surprised by her reaction and, afraid, he loudly called the guards to arrest her. Mulchanor immediately stepped in to appease them.

- Wowowo. No fighting here. Alukel, she doesn’t mean no arm, Griselda please, calm down. Give me your weapon.

Throwing a dark glare to Alukel, Griselda handed her spear to Mulchanor and crossed her arms, the fake smile came back on her face.

- I am no traitor and you don’t know nothing about this Telchos, I will not let her die on sight, you’ll have to show me proofs first.

- I know you don’t know her as we do, no one knows her as I do and I can tell you that she can be trusted. I trust her and I give you my word, as a dwarf, that Griselda is no threat for us. I vouch for her and you, as dwarves, should respect and listen to that. Added Mulchanor, talking to the dwarves still aiming at Griselda. They slowly put their guns away and didn’t oppose the group leaving the room. As soon as they were out of the cabin, Mulchanor handed the spear to Griselda just as she was reaching out for it.

She was still upset, and so was Leo who wasn’t satisfied with the solution of killing both the Telchos and his fellow knight. Erleothir was shocked, how could kill his old friend? Would Griselda be able to kill someone from her country? While the madman was still rambling about Godly vengeance, Gustavius took one of the sandwiches with a face of perplexity towards the will of God.

-But wouldn't it be better to bring them, ask them why they attack and then kill them? Asked Alast, while trying to control the tone of his voice. He knew that he wasn't in the best position to grow the Holyman.

-No, you will kill them has I command.

It was then that Alast gave up on calming Alukel. His face had taken about the same expression has Gustavius, who was still eating the sandwich. When Alukel asked for it, Gustavius went for another one, slightly embarrassed.

-So, Gustavius? How do you fell about killing two person in the name of a god? Whispered Alast.

Gustavius shrugged, and removed some crumbs out of his beard with an impassible expression.

After little discussion, Gustavius, exceeded by Griselda’s impatience, decided to go back to Alukel with Yesnarel, to plead for further assistance. Mulchanor joined them and took the place of their Ambassador. However, he couldn't convince Alukel of providing him with a working gun for taking off the crusade. His only shot left was with Jack, a fellow dwarf, a companion, brother of arms to whom he still owed a couple of raccoons and who was frankly not interested in providing more guns to an unlucky Mulchanor. Some mariners even commented he was cursed by the gods due to his relationship with the Telchos wench.

- How can I fight properly without a gun? He started. - Use an axe my friend. - Jack! You are one of my countrymen, can't you see I need another weapon? - That, I can see. What I can't see is why I should help you again with this matter. - It's also in your interest that we came here remember that... - I am here under the orders of Captain Padoka, we came here to take you, nothing else, nothing more. - From warrior to warrior, can't you help me? Would you leave a fellow adventurer die weaponless against his enemies? - You have your axe, don't you? - I can bring much more raccoons you know... - I only need one more. - How can I get it, if I am not armed? - That's your problem. You have to pay your debts, you know? - Do not doubt Mulchanor del Shai on this matter master dwarf. I pay my due and will keep my word. You'll have your last raccoon. - Enough said Master Mulchanor. I cannot afford to gamble weapons. Bring me something to trade with, and... He paused, smiled and before Jack could say anything Mulchanor voice went colder: - Do not even mention that Master Jack. I have understood, I see your point. But do... Gustavius interrupted him, holding his fellow dwarf by his shoulder. - Leave this to me Mulchanor. I think I can make a deal. Trust me. - All right, I am out of arguments anyway, I see he won't budge. Stubborn Dwarf... Seeing that they would get any gun, and feeling bored of the discussion, Gustavius, immediately followed by Alast, leaved the room. It was the Erleothir , Griselda and Mulchanor who gave up on the discussion. Yesnarel was now alone, and Erleothir flustered behind the door “good luck”.

Gustavius was still casually chatting with Jack, holding him by the shoulder

-"Now, I don't exactly know what you want these raccoons for but... you know, the jungle is a dangerous place"
-"indeed"
Gustavius threw his head back for a moment and went on
-"I am glad you agree with me. I see we both share the same opinion, walking around in that jungle without weapons would be foolish" As Jack acknowledged he went on "so, by lending a gun to our good friend Mulchanor over there..." he underlined his words by gesticulating towards the toothless dwarf who waved back shortly and went on detailling Griselda's body "... you would raise his chance of survival and as a consequence your chance of getting your, errmmm.. 'wares' quicker and safer." Gustavius could feel Jack's stubbornnes slowly cracking and continued "as you can see, lending him a gun is in our common interest... so, what do you say?"

Jack scratched his beard pensively while a smug grin was slowly appearing on Gustavius' face "hehe got him..."
- "well, actuallyyyyyy...... NO." was Jack's reply after a short moment. /i"damn this.. it can not be true" sighed Gustavius for himself. "what am I doing here ? it's not my problem if Mulchanor gets killed down there, but as i just said it is in our all interest for him to survive. and this can only be assured with the best equipment. but why does it have to be my problem ?" he snarled slightly for himself, about to give up. Letting his eyes wander upon the deck he noticed a few dwarves playing a card game for money while another nearby was reconstructing his own rifle and suddenly an idea struck him.
- "Jack, I just have a brilliant proposal..."
- "I've heard enough brilliant things from that priest for the next two years" mumbled Jack while pointing at the reeking captain's cabin "now, impress me...."
Gustavius chuckled
- "oh, you'll love this, trust me ! and the best is: noone of us is loosing" and with those word he dragged Jack out of reach of curious ears

From the distance, Mulchanor could see his two fellows discussing in a very agitated manner, Gustavius gesticulating wildly and Jack nodding in approbation while throwing quick glances on deck around him. Soon it was clear that they had started haggling, both posing, acting offended and performing the usual acting of dwarves finally agreeing on a business. He could simply hear a loud "15%, deal !", see a piece of paper beeing exchanged and a vigorous handshake.

With a self-satisified smile Gustavius walked back to Mulchanor
-"you can rejoice mate, I got you a gun... you can rent it for hundred gold. I do know that you have no money so I'll be advancing you this sum. You'll simply have to work it off by crafting for me"
Mulchanor's face brightened with a wide smile but before he could express his thanks Gustavius went on...
-"of course you'll have to provide your own materials, but do not worry. I will not rip you off, your debt is exactly hundred gold pieces, not more, not less. Unless, of course, you destroy the gun... then you'll have to pay off the full price of this rifle to me. This would be around four hundred gold in that case."
the bright smile on Mulchanor's face faded away
- "four hundred ?!" he exclaimed
- "you know just like me that such an advanced weapon costs that much, I merely rounded it up to twenty gold 'transaction costs'. Now, don't look that way. You wanted a rifle so badly, now you have to take the responsability for it..."

less than an hour later the whole group was about to leave the skyship again, their plan was simple: crossing the river, finding the tracks of the fugitives, hunt them down and then improvise a lot...
Erleothir tunred around
-"Jack, we'll have to cross the Boari. I expect you have a small embarcation aboard, could you please provide it to us ?"
-"oh naturally, replied the first mate, we will provide you one for..." he intercepted a slight cough coming from Gustavius "... for free of course."

After our company lowered the boat, they crossed the river. To make sure that nobody would be able to escape, they hid their own boat and pushed the one of their enemies into the water, never to be seen again.
Tracks were soon found and Alast decided to climb into a tree from where he would have a clear view of their surroundings. He discovered a little filet of smoke in the distance, to his eye not more than the smoke of a pipe, but he managed to tell it was about 1 hour walk away.
After a walk through the thick branches of the jungle, the company got close to what was in fact a camp and Griselda scouted to see what the company could expect. She saw a little campfire with a Telchos Warrior and a Knight sitting nearby. Close to them, was a small tent and then, there were 3 groups of 5 Giaks each. After the rest was informed of her observations, they had to make a plan, to decide how they were going to proceed. Several tactics were discussed and rejected again, but in the end, they came out with the following – and rather daring – plan.

Griselda and Erleothir would walk into the camp, to approach the duet. Griselda would put a poisonous dart into the Telchos' neck, upon she would fall unconscious. Erleothir would use this moment of distraction to hit his fellow knight Eolfrid at the back of his head, hopefully rendering him unconscious as well. They would then drag them away from the Giaks. Meanwhile, the rest of the company would surround the camp and fight the Giaks after both the Telchos and Knight would be taken care of. Desperate times call for desperate measures.

That was the plan. Just to make sure, Yesnarel gave Erleothir a thunderstone: “Use this as a signal if things go wrong and we need to attack the camp sooner”. On those words, the rest of the group departed silently and started surrounding the camp. After Erleothir and Griselda waited long enough for them to take position, they finally dared entering the enemy camp. As they were walking towards the campfire, they saw how demoralized the Giaks and their company were. All staring into the light provided by the little campfire, they were clearly wounded and battered from a previous fight. Griselda and Erleothir grinned discreetly to each other, thinking that it would be much easier than expected.
From the bushes, the others looked at their brave comrades, but from the distance, they couldn't hear the discussion. It was only clear to them that Griselda knew the other Telchos Warrior and Erleothir sat directly next to a knight from which they could only think that it was Eolfrid.
They were waiting to see Griselda poison her friend, but a such thing wasn't happening. Then, suddenly, a disgusting scent filled the air. Erleothir knew what was coming towards them as he was smart enough to gain some information in the Kai Monastery about the Boari Jungle. Eolfrid shouted: “he is coming!” The Telchos Warrior shouted some orders in the Giak language and immediately the Giaks forgot about their pains and stood ready to defend themselves. Yesnarel understood what was said, but he was standing too far away to inform the others. Now Erleothir and Griselda were standing alone in the camp, all their enemies were prepared for battle, but they did not attack the two.
“What is going on?” asked Griselda to Erleothir, but his eyes were filled with fear of what was to come. “Come on, get a hold of yourself and you'd better do it quickly!”. Erleothir just pointed his finger towards the jungle. No creature could be seen yet, but thick branches started to snap as it came closer and closer.
Erleothir wasn’t able to say much anymore. Finally he managed to say one single word.
“Anapheg”

XP!
Yesnarel: Global playing 100xp,100xp for the plan to attack the giak camp, 100xp for being the ambassador of the team with Alukel,
Mulchanor: Global playing 100xp, 50xp for defending Griselda, 100xp for trying to get himself a gun while broke, 100xp for the plan to attack the giak camp,
Gustavius: Global playing 100xp,100xp for the plan to attack the giak camp, 100xp for dealing a gun for Mulchanor, 50xp for making a sandwich for Alukel, 50xp for eating it,
Alast: 50xp pour memorables moments adds,Global playing 90xp, 100xp for spotting and climbing when needed, 100xp for the plan to attack the giak camp, 100xp for trying to calm Alukel,
Griselda: Global playing 90xp,100xp for the plan to attack the giak camp, 100xp for the bold move to get into the camp, 150xp for blog entry and correction
Erleothir: Global playing 90xp,100xp for the plan to attack the giak camp, 50xp for the private chat with Jack, 100xp for the bold move to get into the camp, 300xp for blog entry

better late than never

2010-12-05T00:25:00.016+01:00

22d of November 5000

Still half deaf after the detonation of Gustavius's gun Alast climbed down from the now dead body of the tiger. A discussion aroused as the battle plan were followed on a very personal note by each of them. Team work still had to be improved. Taking off the tiger from above Erleothir Mulchanor look puzzled to Alast still convinced that his backstabbing prowess was a good idea. Cleaning his swords they both tried to find something useful to betaken for the animal carcass. Once again Griselda went forward and start to walk toward the jungle.

Griselda called the others to follow "Come on! We don't have all day! We need to move." But the others were more interested in what to do with the tiger. "Can we use his teeth for some weapon smiled Alast to Gustavius?" After a trenendious usage of his brainpower he(?) replied: "We need to get rid of the body, it may attract animals. Bigger ones." In the end, the hazardous company decided to trust the expertise of the Telco and not to lose time with the dead tiger.

With a loud "splash" Erleothir and Mulchanor trown the tiger into the river. Rapidly dissapearing in a now red water. Mumbling and complaining they followed the Telchos which didn't let them get to close from them.

The company quickly resumed walking along the river. If the way was almost clear of branches and tree roots, it slowly started to get rather swampy. Still leading the group Griselda at first didn't notice her companions struggling to keep their footing and raising their knees every step a little higher. The dwarves started walking closer to the trees, Alast and Yesnarel followed their examples. So did the knight. When Griselda looked over her shoulder to check on the progress she realized she was the onyl one still easily walking in the mud. Not to waste time and take useless risks, Alast suggested climbing on a tree to check the path ahead. With his pirates skills, it was done in a no time and he proudly came back down with information.

The swamp area was stretching to the North and they would need to walk around it, going more West. Things are never easy and before the company could breath a "ok, then, let's go" they heard the dreaded "but" word. There was indeed a little problem : a column of smoke was coming from the same direction. No it didn't look like another attack ( what could be attacked in the area anyway ? As far as they knew the fort was the only sign of civilisation kilometers around ).

As usual, a animated conversation started. As usual, no leader could give a clear answer but they managed to agree on sending Griselda and Alast to scout. The company would follow them a few hundreds meters away. About 200 hundreds meters away from the source, it became clear that they shouldn't move any step closer. It was a giak camp.

Griselda motioned for Alast to go back to the group and asked him to get them to be quiet and ready to battle if it came to the worst. Left alone, she carefully crawled closer, trying to count the giaks, look at their equipment or any other element that could be proved useful.

She came back to the group, surprised to see them walking in the camp direction, contrary to the instructions left. She shut them up and lead them away, briefly explaining to Erleothir and Mulchanor the reason of this change. No one questioned her as it was clear they were not standing a chance in front of 20 giaks knowing their way around.

The walk from the camp to the ruins was about two hour long. The view was a sad one. Nothing, absolutly nothing remained from the fort, it was burnt to the ground and the soil was littered with bodies, human and giak. That was a least a little confort, they didn't go down without a good fight, taking some enemies with them.

Griselda discovered bear tracks and that led to the discussion wether to clean the Giak camp first or to follow the bear. Obviously the bear was more interesting. But having lots of Giaks running around would have imposed the danger of the Giaks falling in the back of the company. So the decision was made to clean the camp first and have the advantage of supprise on their side.

The company headed for the Giaks. But the sun was already setting and they would arrive tired and at night. The attack on the Giaks was postponed to the next day. 1 hour walking distance away from Giak camp the group prepared for the night stay.

Griseldas sharp eyes spottet a racoon. She tried to capture it alive, but the racoon hat not in mind to be captured. Eye in eye with the Telco the racoons skills outranged hers and the racoon ran away. Almost. It was Yesnarels Quarterstaff that stopped the racoon by a quick punch on the racoons head, knocking out the poor racoon. The racoon was tied legs up to Griseldas stick. Finaly after this dangerous battle the company found some sleep.

Griselda and Mulchanor had the 1st watch. A monkey misused Griseldas leg like a tree to water it with pee. Griselda pushed rudely the animal away with her spear. Lucky Monkey, he was not bitten in the ear. Other monkeys around startet to make noise. It seemed like the whole forest is awakening. More and more mokeys came and the group was alredy frightened of beeing overrun by the monkeys. The noise of the monkeys was topped by a gorillas roar. Even the strongest knights stayed silent in this situation - a wise chocie. Gustavius threw a fruit to lead the mokeys away from the group and fortunately the monkeys passed by without attacking the group.

The next morning, the Telco made up to scout the Giak camp, but when she came back, she only had to report that the Giaks were gone.

Adventure expirienced, the Hazardous Company expected it could be an ambush. The group fell back while Griselda(?) checked the surroundings for signs of an ambush, but it was all clear. Then the group inspected the camp, finding bear tracks again. Yesnarel climbed quickly a tree. He saw a column of smoke, this time nearer to the skyship than the former Giak camp.

After a short break, the group followed the bear tracks wich led them closer to their airvessel. The next Place were the Giaks camped was not far away. Again, Griselda and Alast scouted and again, she send Alast away.

"Lots of dead Giak bodies" reported Griselda thistime. They were killed by guns. Everybody joined at the former battlefield. Only dead Giaks were all around, but no corpeses of the attackers were to be seen. The way the dead bodies were lying around and the way of the bullets in the bodies prooved that the giaks were killed in an ambush by fire from two sides.

A discussion arose wether the attackers were the dwarves were "our" dwarves from the skyrider our if there is another group of dwraves around. The absence of dead attackers, which you could expect by such a large group of Giaks, proved that the ambush was done from a safe distance - like fireing from the skyship down on the Giaks. But on the other hand, the company had found evidence that the ambush was done by attacking the Giaks from two sides. Who were the Dwraves on the other side? But what sould other dwarves do right here? Many questions, no answers. At least no answers so far.

From the battlefield new tracks led away. A couple of Giaks had escaped, but the more interesting were the tracks of 2 Humans and a bear. Our troop followed the tracks for a while, but suddenly they stumbled upon a big surprise when they saw that the tracks split up. The giaks, the bear and 1 human went to the left towards the forest. The other human track went towards the skyship. “Well, that’s just great”, Alast thought. “So we either follow a little army or 1 man who is maybe powerful enough to make us bleed with a snap of his fingers.”.

In order to get a clear overview, the still pretty inexperienced Yesnarel decided to climb upon a tree. Without much trouble, he managed to get to a branch from where he could easily see his surroundings. From here he was able to see the unnamed skyship, but his attention was caught by something else. At the riverbank on the other side of the river, close to the skyship, he saw a little boat; small enough not to catch too much attention, but big enough for a little company. Yesnarel jumped down the tree carefully and informed our heroes of his discoveries.

Nobody knew exactly what this would mean. Who was on the ship? Why is it so close to the skyship, but on the other riverbank? And more important, where are they now? Soon it was decided that our heroes would go to the skyship and see if the dwarves have noticed anything unusual. “But what if the dwarves double-crossed us?”, asked Griselda. Gustavius and Mulchanor were somewhat were hurt in their proud and answered quickly that these dwarves would never dare to do that to them. However still not sure what role the dwarves played here in the Jungle, the team decided to split up. Griselda, eager to stand in the front line, went first followed by Erleothir and Mulchanor. The rest decided to wait near the trees, much to Gustavius’ dismay, because of his earlier experience.

Griselda arrived first at the boat and Jack recognized her soon after and dropped a ladder for her to climb up. When she arrived on top of the boat, she could not recognize any danger and gestured to Mulchanor and Erleothir to follow her example. The three did take a good look and even though Captain Padoka was not to be seen, he was still to be heard. In fact he was singing so loud it was clear that the atmosphere on board of the nameless ship was very good and no danger would come from them.

The ones waiting in the forest quickly joined them on board. Jack instructed them to follow him towards the captain’s office. When they arrived at the door, Captain Padoka opened the door wildly with a glass in his hand where some ale used to be in it. What happened with the ale was quite clear when the captain already prepared for another drinking song. However he was interrupted by a hand on his shoulder: “whozze friends you haved there on your shippeth?”. “Oh no, another drunk man we have to babysit.”, thought Gustavius, but before he was even able to express his thoughts, Yesnarel stepped forward and said: “Aaahhh, so nice to see a friendly face in these regions. Tell us your name, Father of the Truth and tell us your story on how you came on board”.

The rest of the company was just speechless. It appears that Yesnarel again knows with whom they had to deal with. A Father of the Truth, one of the rulers of the Theocracy of Valerion, a strongly religious nation with leanings toward fanaticism. “Ah, finally I meet the guys with the keys and safes and stuff.”, followed by a big burp was not quite the answer they expected. “How did you manage to get here unharmed?” asked Erleothir. “Ah yes, a very interesting story!”, he answered. “Provide me with a drink and I’ll tell you.”, followed by a big *clunk*.

Father of the Truth or not, he was not very susceptible to ale. He was lying on deck of the nameless skyship. Our heroes decided to have a good night sleep and try to get more information the next day. How little did they know that there was a grave danger coming towards the ship.

Way of the Telchos

2010-11-26T14:19:00.018+01:00

A few days had passed since the attack and everyone was recovering slowly. Erleothir had had a small discussion with the two dwarves and was now sharing his room with Gustavius while Griselda was now with Mulchanor. It was his idea and while Mulchanor seemed not overly angry about it, Gustavius simply shrugged. "As long as no one disturbs me too much, everything is just fine..."

"just fine" were not actually the words running in his mind when thinking about the last fight. one morning he summoned all the crew on the deck of the ship "gentlemen. and lady. we need to learn to coordinate a little bit more when facing enemies..." he asked one of the dwarves to bring a few of the figurines he saw them using during some boardgame he had watched them playing and started elaborating a standard battle plan for the attacks. Bored and confident in her skills, Griselda stayed aside, barely listening. There was some discussion about the role of each team member in a fight and everyone reluctantly agreed that the plan was not bad though still not perfect. Everyone wanted to play a role more important than the one destiny had given them. But there was still room for improvisation...

"how many days till we reach our destination?"

"around five or six."

"do you happen to have a forge?"

Together with Alast, Yesnarel and Erleothir, Gustavius had managed to make a deal with the dwarves. He would be able top use the forge and their resources to craft two new special weapons in exchange for the blueprints and two additional crafted items.

On the flying ship, our company had plenty of time to think about their situation, whether it was their general quest, their own personal one, or simply their general personal situation.

And one of them seemed pretty unaware of his difficulties. To any one standing on the side, it was obvious that Mulchanor got it worse than any other. Or is it only because his secrets were known ?

Everybody knew he was a pennyless dwarf who was even dispossessed from his most valuable good: his gun. Instead of the powerful dwarven gun of Bor, he was discreetly carrying a pistol and would more surely show his axe than this ersatz of a gun. Touched in his pride, he negotiated with the crew to get a new gun, which would probably prove to be useful in the coming days, once they would be walking around in the wild. The captain agreed to provide him a gun. Minding a few conditions ... Mulchanor would only own the gun after bringing him a few items. Nothing big, a few raccoons being probably the most difficult to get. The third "issue" would be Griselda. (Though that person probably wouldn't see how this could be a problem ). To his fellow dwarves, Mulchanor was a victim, they knew the reputation of the Telchos' tribe and the newly acquired scar at his ear certainly confirmed their possessiveness. What puzzled them however was the apparent satisfaction Mulchanor was showing. Judging by his smiling face, the relation didn't seem to be the curse the rumors would have it to be. They would have looked at Griselda's face to read her expression but there wasn't much clues to be found. She was confident and the romance hadn't softened her expression in the least. But she definitely was high on energy, and so was he.

even his bitten-off ear did not clouded his mood. Upon asking what happened the company received the explanation from Griselda herself. "It's the way we mark our men. we always leave something visible. So everyone - and especially themselves - knows who they belong to"

After several uneventful days, the ship finally arrived. From high above the trees, the river could be seen. Padoka called his guests on the deck to show them his discovery. The adventurers took turn to look at the river using a long view. Griselda used her good sight to check for a landing spot. Slightly north of their position, a column of dark smoke was tainting the blue sky. Padoka informed them that it probably was the fort burning. The company decided to land as soon as possible and as close as possible in order to assist the survivors of the arson (or was it an attack ?). There was a little clearing a few miles away, depending on the jungle fauna and flora it would take them between 3 and 5 days to reach what would then be ruins.

It was around 8 in the evening when they finally touched the ground. Enthusiastic, the company was ready to disembark and start the trek. Griselda reminded them of the time and offered to go for a reconnaissance round : they needed to know how thick and dense the foliage would be, how big and dangerous the local fauna was, how clear and deep the water was, at Mulchanor's request, she added "raccoon check" to her list. She took Alast's rope to prepare traps they would be able to collect in the morning.

Curious and willing to check the trees and see if they could possibly be used for ambush, Alast decided to accompany her. Erleothir was added to the group and the three of them left the ship to go for a walk. Alast seemed satisfied by the location, the tall and rich trees would be easy to climb and would offer plenty of ways to hide and jump to surprise the enemy.

As for Griselda, her talent didn't disappoint the knight who was impressed by the way she could look at a plant and decide if it was edible or not, to look at the water and measure its depth and potential dangers. She even spotted raccoons steps and set two traps after cutting Alast's ropes in two. A frown appeared on her face however and she studied slightly longer than previously some traces apparently left by nothing less than a tiger.

Deciding she had all the information they needed : walking by the river was relatively safe and the flora shouldn't bother them so much there, they would be able to find food if needed, fresh water in abundance. All in all, they should be able to reach the ruins in a day. Seeing as the captain promised to wait for a week, there was nothing to worry about.

That was what they all thought when they eagerly left the aircraft after breakfast the following morning, each carrying their ration. The atmosphere was good and one could have thought they were leaving for a picnic. That was until Mulchanor spotted one of the precious raccoons. Griselda immediately switched to hunting mode and left the group walk further, thinking she would catch up with them after capturing the raccoon. It proved to be more difficult than expected though and she came empty handed, shooting a dark glare at Alast, who asked innocently, knowing full well the answer : " so, how did it go ?"

But before he could get any response to his insolent question a low growl was heard... and before anyone could react, a large tiger was already on them. Most specifically, on Erleothir. The large beast knocked him down on the floor. Mulchanor grinned and pulled out his rented rifle with a wide and impressive movement, aimed, shot and... cursed as the weapon exploded in a large smoke of cloud. The tiger was unimpressed and tried to reach for Erleothir hidden below his shield and, as Alast jumped on the back of the beast trying to find a weak point to stab, Gustavius sighed, pulled his newly crafted hand gun out, calmly walked to the mass of bodies and unloaded the gun in the right ear of the beast.

As Erleothir was removing chunks of tiger brain from his face, Griselda turned to him, shrugging:

"so... welcome to the jungle."

The nameless ship

2010-10-24T13:30:00.031+02:00

10 of November 5000

On the highest platform of the higest tower of the Kai Monastery gathered, after a rich first meal, our heroes. They were blessed by Courageous Blade and Sharpen Fox but before leaving Huldrak requested their individual attention for a last counsel.
One by one the old Huldrak talked to them with very different reaction from each of the elements of the Hazardous Company. When all where up a dwarf took up the rope ladder, waving a last time to the Kais. He turned to our heroes and smiling he said:
- Hello all! My name is Jack, I...
All laughed openly except Yesnarel.
- What is so funny about my name my lords?
- Hem hem, nothing really said Erleothir, you just remind us someone...
- ... named also Jack that we met in another Ship... added Gustavius
- ...who died horribly...
- ...No he did not...
Before they started to get into a difficult terrain the Dwarf interrupted them all:
- Well, dead or alive I am the Jack of this ship, let me lead you all to our captain, the captain Padoka.
- Look! I can see my horse from here yelled Erleothir.
An illusion probably, as the Knight was already too high to be able to see anything tinier than a manor from where he stood. After this they were taken to a relatively still young strong man, harboring the blue tunique of the Order of the Crystal Star Brotherhood. Yesnarel couldn't hide his pride as being one of the same kind of the ruler of this ship.
- Good day young fellows! My name is Padoka, I'll be your captain for this journey. Welcome to my ship it will be your house for some days, be free to roam from your cabins to the deck. The rest is ours to see.
All acknowledged the captain, Gustavius and Erleothir asked almost a the same time for the ship's name but they received a peculiar answer.
- Well hum, the ship has no name for now
- What? This will bring bad luck, it can be! Aren't your mariners superstitious?
- Do not worry, we all do have studies here, we are not... well... supertitious.
Alast though for himself he should check the mariners for more information as he wasn't feeling very well regarding this issue.
The knight and the cunning dwarf were bombarding Padoka with questions regarding his own experience and time on duty when the answer hit them back harder than they expected.
- Well actually this is my first ship, and my first trip. But fear not! I have studied enough and I am able to guide you. By the way, I was expecting you to help me with the name of the ship. You see, I believe that the correct name can be decided after we have proven our valor with this trip. It only has been two weeks since we have been deployed on this vessel...
- Two weeks? Well that's not much... suspired Gustavius
- I am proud to be on your ship Captain Padoka, my name is Yesnarel, please tell me in which school have you learn your arts.
- Which school? Well in the Major Han, in... Dessi. And you?
- Well errr in the Ruanon one, of course.
- Of course, a nice one also.
- My Captain, my name is Mulchanor, I am sure you can use one more dwarf in your crew during this travel, may I be from some sort of assistance today?
- Great, we just need someone in the kitchen! JAAAAAAAAACKKKK! Bring this guest to the kitchen. He volonteered to help us there.

A big smile covered his face while he lead Mulchanor to his new found work. When he came back, captain Padoka was already explaining them how the Crystals was there to guide them. He quickly sent them away to their cabins to rest. Jack lead them to the cabin, making a point on not going till the end of the corridor as it was an area for the crew members only. They could go freely on deck and to their cabins. Not really happy about it the rooms where now shared the following way:
Griselda will be on top of the double deck bed, while Erleothir would be under. Mulchanor and Gustavius will be sharing the middle room and Alast was left with Yesnarel which was carefully hiding his purse. While all were preparing they beds, Gustavius went out from the bed and reached the forbidden corridor. He turned to the only left open way and found another dwarf with two pistols over his belly, pointing a third one to his face.
- Good night lad, this is not an open part of the ship. My name is Gaki, which is yours?
- I Didn't mess trespassing and my name is Gustavius, I am, you know, looking for some beer. Do you...
Before he could finish Gaki was already turning his back to him saying:
- Wait here.

He came back with two pints of beer taking Gustavius to the deck where he sat under the stars letting Gaki's tongue smooth enough to let out words that should have been kept for himself. Gustavius discovered that the captain had still to prove to his crew he was an able one. The dwarf could not say much about the Boari Jungle apart from "stay clear from the Anapheg" In between some broken sounds, that Gaki referred to be songs from the captain's working, started to wake up the rest of the company. In their rooms they stayed quiet even when Griselda wanted to check what going on. It wasn't an attack from hell hounds but a vain attempt from Padoka to sing. After some time the songs stopped with a last loud fall.
- It only could be Padoka said Gustavius.
Gaki answered vaguely:
- He works till late and it always end up like that, I'll verify if the ship is going right and be right back.
- Wait, you can control such a ship, just like this ?
- No, don't be fool young one, I need a box to reach the controls.
With the beer finished and the sensation of having ended the arguments to discuss Gustavius thanked his host and went back to his cabin. He knew that Mulchanor was already sleeping as only a dwarf could snore like he did. On the other rooms silence was already set.

As the day rose our heroes didn't bother to wake up. The patiently waited for Jack to come over and lead them to the kitchen, where they would have a decent breakfast. When entering the little space they had, Gustavius nodded to Gaki and Jack thanked Mulchanor for the potatoes peeling he did last day. As Jack asked him if he was interested to peel more potatoes for the day, Mulchanor offered Gustavius services instead, as a fellow dwarf. Cornered, he could only acknowledge and get ready for an hard day of labor. Conversation was going well till the company tried to get information from the crew. None of them were really up to give information to foreigner as Alast could sense deep in his hurted pride.
- If you want answers you have to be worth of them. Be a man. Have a beer of our home brew.
- I don't drink he replied.
- Stupid and coward. Great one... grumbled to himself the dwarf.
- But I do drink happily shouted Gustavius.
- And me! Almost immediately retorked Mulchanor.
- All right I'll have one too sighted the knight.
- I can have one too, said Yesnarel
- Give me one said Griselda.

Smiling, the dwarves served a round of pints and waited for the result. Slowly results came to the surface. Erleothir barely hold his alcohol but kept still. Mulchanor and Gustavius couldn't be affected due to their own dwarven constitution an no one was ever interested in them. Griselda rapidly went down the path of drunkenness behind more friendly that she ever was before. Yesnarel tried to keep up, drank in one sip and felt on his back almost immediately.
Laugh could be now heard in the all ship.
Erleothir tried to calm them but he was too affected to really lecture someone. At some point the dwarves were still not talkative enough or just teasing their new guests. All the sudden Erleothir was taking Yesnarel to his cabin while Alast was cursing against those damn drunks. Griselda was not able to get walking on her feet and she asked Mulchanor to help her walking. They wanted to go up deck while it wasn't their decision to take. Gaki found help to contain them in another killing round of beer. Gustavius took his beer and went up. Erleothir asked one more question but got rapidly got an unwanted answer:
- Only real man can make questions here, kids and wusses stay below.

Erleothir took his beer and drank straight down his beer. The dwarf was now impressed and started to talk:

- Now fellow Knight, what were you asking?

- I honestly don't remember.

More laugh came toward to company, it was more than enough for Griselda to grab another beer and finish the job she just started, soon she was completely loose over Mulchanor. Mulchanor didn't let this chance pass by and took her to her cabin to consume her inner fire. Erleothir sighted but was unable to act differently than letting the storm pass by. Nobody can be between the pray and the hunter. Mulchanor, soon enough will discover he was the pray. Alast was just pushed away while the strange couple rushed into her room, moaning like animals. Alast stood in his room, having an acoustic image of what was going on the other side of the quarters. Yesnarel was still unconscious.

Several minutes after Gustavius and Erleothir were wandering on deck when Gustavius saw two fellow dwarves on top of the ship scrutining the horizon. In matters of seconds one came down and back with a metal long tube which he used to look in. Apparently his eyes could go further and he spotted something. Both heroes came near and tried to get more information.
- Kraans! Kraans ahead.
The captain was coming out of his working office at the moment quite in bad shape.
- Don't talk so loud... I worked hard yesterday... Get the guns we'll take care of them
Slowly he went on the back platform, taking position, waiting for them to move. The dwarf counted them nervously.
- One, two, three Kraans. Each with two heavy armoured men.
Form ranks form ranks around me sailors! Shouted Jack.
Gustavius stayed on prow, ready to take care of those three beast. The fifteen dwarves crew members were now packing, side by side, at starboard ready for a typical dwarven tactic. Such fire power can take care of most of the creatures of Magnamund. Alast set himself on position and occupied the ship port beam willing to take care by himself of this side.

Mulchanor and Griselda were still in the middle of their final moment of passion but it was time for a fight. Erleothir knew their valor in combat and ran into the room.

- HOOO sorry! A fight is coming we need you both! Mulchanor we need to go!

-She felt asleep! I'll come as soon as possible, let me wake her up!

He shaked her hard with no response but when hope failed she opened her eyes, looked at him and puked over his armor. She felt over the bed, naked but free of dizziness.
- Great... He said leaving over her a clean blanket.
In the other room Erleothir tried his luck harder and harder, hitting Yesnarel whom reacted fast and ran for the deck where he managed to clean his body from the Bor poison. Sometimes a good slap can make miracles. Still frail a quick look around and Erleothir keeping him up to speed he was now ready. Mulchanor climbed the mast to find a good shoting position with his tiny pistol, he knew the beasts were deadly. He would need another of his bull eye shot today.

The kraans were now taking positions, one was going straight to the vessel's prow while the other set course to intercept both flanks. Drakkarims they were, massives and ready to die for their masters. Only the complaints about captain Padoka were now disturbing the wind in this anguished wait.
Yesnarel broke the silence and start to perform a spell toward the kraan coming in front of the ship, unfortunately he couldn't finish his ritual properly and nothing was to be seen.
- FIRE! Echoed the voice of Jack. Under a cloud of smoke ans deafening sound the final cry of a Kraan flooded the air. Almost immediately broke by the terror screams of the two surviving Drakkarims falling into the void.
- Reload fast! The dwarf second in command urged his courageous companions.
One arrow cut the air fast toward Yesnarel. He stopped for a split of second only to hear the final breath of a dwarf, hit on his back while reloading. That's was close he though. One another arrow tried to hit the captain Padoka and missed his chest for a few centimeters, ripping his left arm tunique, and simultaneously, his arm.
-POW! A single shot from Mulchanor was now lost. Immediately after another shot was to be heard. the bullet hitting the shoulder of the Kraan rider facing him. Gustavius grin slowly disappeared from his face as he noticed the rider slowly retaking control from his beast.

The drakkarims were setting themselves ready to board. Yesnarel tried to hit one Drakkar with a projectile but failed. Too short. Arrows from the archers whistled in the air, failing to reach target but still greeting Erleothir neck with a new scar. Drunk and hurt he jumped toward his enemies.
The strongest Drakkarim shouted something and no one were able to understand him besides Yesnarel. He turned pale and warned Erleothir
- NO no no nonnnonoo! Stay here he wants to kill me!
Half way now, the knight ran back to his position setting his heavy shield to protect both magicians. The front kraan attacked Gustavius but bit in the railings of the deck, Gustavius smiled at so much luck and prepared to deal him a final blow, when the Drakkarim captain slashed him making him fall back. It wasn't finished and the second drakkarim pinned him down with his spear. Now stuck on deck, with a spear in his chest Gustavius started to pray at his forgotten gods.

Padoka tried another spell but burped and emitted more strange sounds with his body in the middle of it. Unfortunately it will be too late for another saving spell. Yesnarel now set a second projectile to one of the drakkars coming from the right. This one fell, dead. Alast was growing impatiently as nothing was at his grasp for the moment.
- FIRE AT WILL! Shouted jack.
Gustavius eyes were now wide open. He muttered for himself:
- I'm glad I'm laying now. And smiled.
A fortress of steel hit both drakkarims and the kraan. Both humanoids came down glared by such attack. Alast was caught by surprise by the great Kraan. Mulchanor shot the archer and wounded him, destroying by the same ocassion his bow. Wounded he felt over board. Alast was now in the mouth of the Kraan whom tried to crunch him like a rabbit. He felt the pressure but was not afraid. One drakkar ran toward the mages but Erleothir was there to defend both. The fought briefly without more results than another injury for Erleothir. Padoka stood and gaped:
- Enough. And shot the drakkar in the face. Mixing burning metal and flesh wound. A pistol can be handy sometimes. Alast took his rapiere and plundered it the beast eye. She let him fall. Alast smiled and then realized that maybe he wasn't on the ship. But the hard board hurted him happily reminding him he was safe but hurt. Still pinned on the ground, with two dead bodies lying over him Gustavius caught a glimpse of the last Kraan reducing the ship's bow in pieces. with a swipe of his axe along the ground level he sent the Kraan back to earth cutting his beak. Painlessly Gustavius broke the spear and set himself up. the battle was over.

The next morning Erleothir explained lightly what happened to Griselda, whom had forgotten the whole episode after the second beer. Alast was obviously evesdropping and, this time, was caught in the act when Griselda opened the door. She trown him a dark glare at which Alast responded with:

- Did you sleep well princess?
- Keep your dreams to yourself.
- Quite frankly, I don't care about what you did Yesterday.

The telchos could see Alast hidden grin. Annoyed she tried to punch him, but the after effect of the alcohol and the natural skills of the pirate made her miss her punch. The Pirate had a brighter smile. She threw another punch... Which he also avoided. The Telchos tried her luck until she struk the face of her targed. However the absence of pain and the efforts of the Telchos, Left the pirate smiling even wierr. The Expression of the pirate was more a victorious one than Griselda cursing in her own mind the most terrible pain to Alast and Mulchanor.

During three more days and nights a storm waved the ship. None could go on deck beside the crew. The Captain Padoka never left his post during the days, nor his cabin during the nights.
Our company recovered from their wounds or from their alcohol abuses. This first unwanted encounter didn't bring them more then scars and the certainty of the right path had been taken. The enemies corpses didn't provide much information for them nor valuables items. Gaki suggested to resell them and provide some money to the fallen comrade family. Locked between wooden walls, going from room to kitchen and kitchen to room, not much happened during these days. A few pints were shared between the dwarves, some daring crew members tried to offer one to Griselda while grinning. She always refused with a disdain look from above. This only made the dwarves light hearted and even betting on each attempt to make her drink. So far none could find a way to make her drink.

Alast was now seen as an equal to their eyes. He couldn't stand a beer but he killed a Kraan with a single blow of his missing rapiere. He had proven his valor in combat. Erleothir almost didn't fight but drink enought still standing to reach such a reconnaissance and, as his armour proved, he was a knight of the Sommerlund. He had nothing to prove at the moment. Mulchanor was seen as a true hero by his fellow dwarves, except Gustavius whom female scoreboard didn't impressed him. More he had to think after this near death experience. He had encountered deadly strong enemies and almost died. His life he owned it now to the fourteen mariner's wall of bullets. Fortunately he was a strong lad and recovering fast. Yesnarel spend the time repeating the same riddle...

"Where once stood the mighty prayers of the olds,
A forest grew as the water serpented around.
Where the Gods creation is incomplete,
One creature of the wind will open the door."

As it was now normal for the company, once the night felt on the ship the working time of the captain started. First chanting popular songs and then a loud noise of a fallen trunk. Then silence.

At dawn of the fourth day, the mighty Sun took over the horizon. It was now a bright day that Ishir was offering them. After a frugal breakfast without beer, even for the dwarves, the company now fully awake and keen for a little exercise went up to deck. The first contact with the light was blinding and it took them some minutes to get use to this new found clarity. A new day was now greeting them. Still, nine they will have to wait to reach the Boari Jungle, unsure of what could be found left once they'll arrive, the company inspired the fresh air of a brand new day on the ship with no name.

15 of November 5000

Hard choices

2010-10-11T13:27:00.059+02:00

8th of November 5000

Still lifting up from the bow the all gratified the Grand Kai master, they thrown undecided looks to each others, leaving to Gustavius the first words to be sailed to the sea of uncertainty.
- grand Master, we sadly acknowledge that Dark Raven stayed behind to save our lives. He, with Lightning, destroyed the bridge to the fortress. Leaving our way free... except for a keen drakkarim whom assaulted us before we could leave. He took the life of Lightning whom we couldn't bury properly.
- May Ishir protect his soul in those dark Lands, solemnly spoke Sharpen Fox.
Silence was broken but an heavy mantle covered now this gathering. The tale continued with sadness in their eyes and hearts. Griselda looked away each time Lightning name was pronounced, feeling deeper than she wanted his departure. The company updated Sharpen Fox about their perilous travel back to the monastery, the Kai Grand Master listened to all of them, trying to get more information than the one given. Soon, our heroes noted that he knew more than he was expressing at the moment. But before he could be questioned back, a smooth knock on the door awoke them to the entrance of a young man in a blue long tunique covered of stars. He looked apprenhensive to come further as any bringer of bad news. Timidely he entered while Sharpen Fox hailed him to come forward.
- Yesnarel, what a surprise, what is your purpose on your journey here?
-Masters, and guests, I come today to bring you a message from my father the king.
- A message? And he is using his own son, the Prince of one Eldenora nation? Give me the letter and join us, just let me finish here with my guests.
- What? Said a shocked Gustavius? Shouldn't we wait or talk in private? This is a matter of utmost importance we never know who...
- Do not worry Master dwarf. Yesnarel is the son of a trustful ally of the Kai. Do not fear is silence nor his speech.
More murmurs and uncertainties ran in the rank of our heroes, but as guests, not to say debtful companions, they continued to set Sharpen Fox and Courageous Blade more involved of what happened so far. Since Marghal they had unveiled a conspiracy, or an important trail to a powerful artefact which could change the equilibrium that the Dark Lords seek to break for so long.
- But Huldrak, do you know him? Can we trust him? Said first Griselda
- This time, it was Courageous Blade whom talked first. Huldrak is more than a friend and an ally, his wisdom his cherished by us and all the fighters alleged to good and justice.
Sharpen Fox didn't wait their answers, or better said, their questions, to inform them of what he was here doing.
Right now he is in the Library, studying the scroll Dark Raven brought us back.
- What, he is here? retorked Gustavius.
- Can we see him advanced Erleothir.
- Yes, in time. for now I can't say much more, as we also have our duties to fulfil. I'll leave you with the most of what we know:
we discovered that the Dark Lords are seeking keys and safes, seven of each which would lead them to treasure we don't know. But if they are looking for them, we must find them before them. It must be important, if not dangerous enough. When you killed the Nadziranim he apparently had finish to translate and encode a message about those keys. We managed to translate to some parts and almost have discovered two possible keys or safe locations. At least it is what I want to confirm with our emissaries.
Yesnarel grew, patiently impatient. And Sharpen Fox understood he woud read the message at once. Without pausing he read it, and his face turned sadder and darker as he reached the end of it.
- Do you know what your father wrote young Mage.
- I do not know Master Kai, my father sent me here with money and the mission to deliver this letter to you, and you only.
- Sad news they bring me, our Kai emissary was killed at your father own court, in his presence!
- I can just provide you my personal apologies Master Kai, I will do whatever is at my reach and beyond to try to cover the loss of your fellow Kai...
The company couldn't believe what they heard, a Kai Lord assassinated at a King's court!
- And you will, Yesnarel. You will. Your father gave us your service for a year, as a token of forgiveness for what happened. I will conference with my conselours and pray for the soul of one of us whom reached Ishir...
Do not fear, I won't punish you. But you'll travel with them now. And will help them as you were helping me, paying back the blood debt that your father couldn't avoid. I will send him a letter back and will debate about what he wrote and confirm to us in here. Much information is now unveiled to our eyes, and I must decide which will be our next move. We will be needing your help also adventurers, turned him to the Hazardous Company
A defiant Griselda remarked loudly in those empty halls:
- And what about my quest, will you help me?
- In time temerous Telchos, in time... It is not by chance nor by doom that our path crossed... There is more to say later. News from Shotia are confirmed and from Boari also... Join us at the library later this afternoon. Feast and recover behind our walls, till it is time for you to go after the adventure you called apon yourselves. Huldrak will be there also. We need to know why an emissary of the Kai was killed by a conselour of your father the King Yesnarel. And why he didn't want to have us informed about Shotia. We'll see you later this afternoon, be ready to go at any time!
No time was left for them to answer back, they were once again alone, with a new mage.
- Yesnarel is your name, mine is Gustavius of Bor
- And I am Mulchanor smiled the teethless dwarf.
- I am happy to join your group...
A strange game of questioning went over the poor young mage, whom was properly introduced to Griselda and the others. No much they said, but they learned that he was a noble, son of a King, from the war thorn country of Eldenora. He told them about own a conselour of his father killed a Kai and then died during his... questioning. He was mad, losing all his sense. He didn't know what was written, He respected his father will and traveled till he reached the monastery.
They left to the market square where they could get finally what they needed. Once again, they splitted, guided by their own desires...

*
* *

Now with a few hours ahead, the dwarves, the Mage and the Knight felt like children in a playground. Weapons and shops all over, fair prices, the guarantee of good weaponry in one of the bastion of what is still good in Magnamund, fair ladies to the eyes, good real meals and beds... And all was here for them to take, or at least to buy, if possible. If not, Gustavius already had some ideas in the back of his mind which travelled with him so far. After going for a first reconnaissance tour to find the best of what this monastery has to offer, they finally got their shopping plan ready when one Weaponry forge was selected for his prices, discretion and quality. Probably not in that particular order, but your three fighters were too much excited to be able to find new killing devices that even time seemed to have stopped.
-I want a Rifle, shouted Mulchanor
- Do you have spare parts looking like this, gesticulated Gustavius
- A great Shied, a Sommerlund great Shield do you have one? Hoped Erleothir.
-haaaaa.... sighted Aron the Forge Master, adventurers...
-One at the time please, no rifles here, pistols at best Master Dwarf. For you, which material are those, gesticulated him back, and for you young Knight which colours or coat of arms needs to be shown on your shield?
Once again, they talked as one man and demanded as the war drums were echoing in the valley.
Once more the Forge Master answered them all at the same time, checking their purses with a worry look. The knight was already checking his gold while putting down his spoils of war and used weapons trying the new ones fighting imaginary enemies. Easily slain as he could see. Gustavius requested to rent his forge and tools for a while. While speaking with Erleothir he could send gestural messages to Gustavius whom accepted the prices knowing he should pay much more. Buts as Erleothir, he knew that the Kais won't allow wrong doers in their walls, so he acted both out of charity and greed, helping them to by the most expensive, but still fair priced, items in his store. Gustavius was bound to come back later on to finish his enhanced Erleothir's shield . Mulchanor, was less proud than usual, knowing than cunning and smiles will pay more than shouting and intimidation today. Not even enough money to by a pistol. Nor goods to trade...
- Master Aron?
- Yes Master dwarf? What can I do for you today?
- Well, as you know, I am looking for a Bor's rifle...
- That I don't have
- And that I cannot pay...
- Which I already know
- But I am a poor unarmed dwarf in need of a boum weapon...
- Which I can get
- For a reasonable price...
- Which would be all your gold
- But I'll still need something to shoot with...
- That's why I gave you away fifteen bullets and enough powder to shot with
- Euh...
- You are welcome Master Dwarf, today is my lucky day too, next time you come by bring me good deals, and we'll consider each other even.
With that he gave to Mulchanor a tiny but Effective short range pistol to the dwarf. Seems to already had some use, but he can trust a shopper whom Forge from the Monastery. Silently he left, before the luck could turn away from Aron or him.

*
* *

Standing around in the large courtyard of the Kai Monastery, Alast caught glimpse of a training circle were Kai disciples were fighting each other under the guidance of an older Master. With a smug grin on his face he approached the training grounds and hailed the sword master: "Maybe the younglings would like to face a different opponent ? I would also gladly learn a few tricks from you during a small friendly competition... what do you say?"

The sword master detailed Alast from head to feet "this could be amusing..." he nodded at one of the disciples while the class was was forming a circle around both combatants. Their lethal weapons were put aside and while Alast received a wooden sword, his young kai opponent grabbed a wooden axe. Remembering his good manners Alast offered a quick sword salute to his adversary. But before the young Kai could even react Alast had allready disarmed him in a quick strike to the wrist. The young Kai looked in shock and dismay over to the sword master while Alast sighed: "I want opponents, not victims..."

The swordmaster could hardly contain his rage and ordered his disciples to form a larger circle around himself and Alast. For a moment both faced each other like petrified. Alast tried to deliver a quick swipe from the right towards the liver of the Swordmaster but this one parried without effort. Alast stork a second time. but this time he feinted an attack from the right while quickly stepping on the foot of the Kail ord thus imobilising his movements a bit. His natural instinct for gold helped him to snatch the Kai Lord's purse with his leftt hand while parrying a blow that never came to his right. The Kai Lord's purse in his left hand and his sword in the right hand he stepped back and waited for the Kai to attack him. But this one did not moved. slightly annoyed by the chance of his opponent and the lost of his purse he simply posed and waited for Alast to make a false move. Slightly nervous Alast taunted him with a move of his sword from his wrist. the Kai Lord still did not reacted. Alast held the Kai Lord's purse high in the air to make sure all disciples might see it. "want it back? what are you waiting for? attack me !" A small crowd had now gathered around the circle of training and all were curious about who would have the final word. With a scream the Sword master made a forward roll and stroke Alast in the leg just as this one evaded to the right. Both stood up again but Alast was quicker. As the Kai Lord was about to deliver a straight forward strike to his chest, Alast grabbed the Kai Lords left arm in a lock - a small movement from his side would be enough to break the Kai Lord's arm at the elbow - while he was quickly aiming the sword at the throat of his opponent with the right hand. Murmurs of surprise where to be heard around the circle and both opponents quickly let each other go. The unthinkable had happened, their Sword Master had been vanquished. Alast tried to stay humble. "it was a nice fight master. I know I used many 'dirty' tricks to win. hence my hope that you might teach me a more regular method of fighting?" The Kai Lord sharply replied "a nice fight indeed. but there is nothing I could teach you, I am afraid." After a few polite words Alsat was about to go when the Sword master interrupted him: "Actually, I would really like to have my purse back now..." and to this word all disciples grabbed their training swords as one and grinned at Alast.

*
* *

Once again on her own, Griselda looked for a way to turn this despicable wait for movement as a way to learn more about the flora in Magnamund. heading now toward the Herbalist working on his field.
- Good morning Master Kai.
- Good morning, Telchos said without looking the Kai Lord.
- I wish to learn more about the plants here, maybe you can teach me?
- Why wish you to learn the science of plants?
- It may help me in my quest, I gather knowledge about the plants of Magnamund to be able to use it when needed.
- Very well, good luck in your studies.
- Are you going to teach me something?
- Are you an apprentice or a Kai I don't know yet?
- No I am a Telchos, as you can see.
- So I fear that I cannot. I am here to teach Kais. Join us and I'll teach you.
- I have other plans... Can't you teach me some tricks or show me how to do some potions?
He looked now, stopping to work saying:
- I am afraid not.
Griselda, more angry than comprehensive childishly responded:
-May I look at least? Will my staring bother you?
-No, Telchos, you won't bother me, you can watch and learn.
So, she looked, and learned nothing.

*
* *

A librarian led them along a corridor past a few alcoves where disciples were studiously taking copies of the older and more fragile books. the book shelves were encasing them until they emerged in a reading area flooded by yellow sunlight falling from the high windows. a few tables were put together and the kai lords were discussing, shaking their heads and pointing at different areas on a large - and now corrected - map of Magnamund spread before them. as one of the kai lord moved to the side the company recognized Huldrak sitting on a chair, absorbed by an old parchment. The company hailed him, obviously very happy to finally see an old friend, their only constant in a world slowly but noticeably slipping into chaos.

- "My friends, I am sorry to hear the loss of Lightning, Sharpen Fox already informed me. Nevertheless I am glad to see you alive and in one piece" he smiled.

after a exchange of politeness they quickly related their stories again to Huldrak.

- How is the situation now in Ljuk asked Erleothir
- you will be glad to hear that there is no war. The trade and negotiations with the Barbarians are running again but the entente is, all in all, pretty.... cold.
- at least our trip there was not a complete disaster acknowledged Gustavius
- far from it, it is just too sad That Dark Raven could not find you earlier, Toran had even dispatched a skyship to help him finding you. but since you got kidnapped he had to continue on horse. Flying into the darklands aboard a skyship isn't exactly discreet..

all interrupted Huldrak "a skyship?! they do really exist ? I thought it was the stuff of legend." he nodded impatiently "yes, yes, all at a time for now we have some information for you." he took a deep breath and started explaining the result of his own research.

- "after you crossed the plans of the Nadziranim back in Kalte we could manage to gather a parchment and some notes from his belongings. The agents of darkness are not sleeping and it seems their search has led them to two new place of interest for them. we dare not to say what they expect to find there. be it Key or Chest..." he abruptly stopped and looked at Erleothir "you did not say anything, did you?"
- "not a word" replied the knight proudly
- "and your own keys?"
- "retrieved. actually, Gustavius and myself discovered something interesting."
Huldrak raised an eyebrow
- "As you know," started Gustavius "the drakkarims had us in captivity for more than a week. During those days they had plenty of time to search though our confiscated belongings, find our two keys and sent it to their masters. then probably killing us. Not only did they not killed us, but they also did not discovered the keys. This led us to the following conclusion: they think the keys are just 'normal keys' and not random objects..."
Erleothir continued
- "this would imply that at some point in history the craftsman who made the keys suddenly had to recreate them and transform the original keys into completely innocent-looking items"
- "and this brought me to an idea" finished Gustavius "we can simply continue leading the dark lords on a false trail by forging six wrong keys and hide them at the place were where we will find the real keys... this can buy us some time..."
Erleothir turned around to Gustavius "six keys ? you mean seven, right ?" for a short moments doubts crossed the dwarf's face but the knight already had interpreted it and was chuckling "oh, actually you are right. six keys are great! they'll keep searching for the seventh for a very long time." Gustavius smiled briefly and looked at Huldrak and the Kai Lords acknowledging in the background.
- "Interesting idea, the measures will be taken" nodded Huldrak, he went on "The parchment I am working on was found in the belongings of the Nadziranim, it is coded and I have difficulties translating it."
- "may I have a copy of it" asked Yesnarel
- "if you think you have better chance.. I will have a copy done for you." replied Huldrak amused "still, we were able to get the confirmation about two potential locations. we are not sure if keys or chests were found... first in the jungle of Boari: there is a report that some agents of darkness were spotted there along with a Telchos warrior." all eyes turned to Griselda "and this warrior seems to have a bear as a companion." all frowned, Erleothir the first.
- "what did the Liganim said on the ship back then "another one?"" quoted Gustavius. But Griselda was quick to put him back in place.
- "Am I counting all dwarves involved in this story until now?"
Huldrak coughed and continued
- "Our agents also informed us that the City of Shotia might also hold something of value for us. The leader of the thieves guild has been assassinated and it would seem the guild has split in two parts fighting each other. We now suppose they also possess an item" Gustavius sighed upon hearing this information but Huldrak was going on "A dark lord has been seen there probably trying to finish a deal with the guild. He is in company of a girl..." he stopped for a short moment consulting his notes "ah yes, here is it, we even have her name: Mellini." in the background Erleothir had turned pale.

- "We will offer you the service of the Skyship that was planned to catch you up three weeks ago." Sharpen Fox started, he pinpointed a few areas on the map "As you can see the Boari jungle is not just to the west of Dessi, a trip there would take twelve days." he went around the table "here is the city of Shotia, Capital of Mythan, 24 days of travel..." while tapping at one a peninsula on the most southern reaches of Magnamund "it's up to you to decide were you want to head. time is of the essence."

*
* *

The skyship would start in a few hours and the group went to the refectory, looking forward to a good meal and discussing their options.

- "I... have something to tell you" said Erleothir after a heavy gulp. He reached for his necklace "Mellini. I know that girl. she was the one to give me the necklace"
All turned around to him making it clear that now was the time to lay down the cards. and so he started relating his story:

*
* *

In the village were I lived I had a good friend, Eolfrid was his name. we were exactly the same age. except that he was one day older than myself as he liked to remind me all the time. It was a good friendship... We were both designated to be knights of sommerlund. and he started one day earlier than myself. all things went well. until she arrived. Mellini. It was obvious that both of us fell for her. we decided it to settle it down in a classic way. the first to fall on the ground would loose and leave the girl to the winner. Eolfrid won. he could not resist reminding me that it was due to that one extra day of training. But we respected our agreements and stayed good friends. Monthes then years passed by. One day I was travelling in the forrest still in training at the royal stables, I can not exactly remember what I was doing there. But I will never forget what happened on that afternoon. I heard screams coming from a clearing, when I headed there I could see Mellini lying on the ground. On the other side of the clearing was a large bear. It was clear to me that I had to interven else the bear would surely have killed her. I fought the beast and finally drove it off as I managed to slash his face. Mellini... gave me the necklace as token of gratitude... we decided to go back to town seperately to avoid any gossip if people might see us coming out of the forrest together. I let her go first. When I arrived in town lateron - here he stopped recalling the events - she did not came back to the town. no one had seen her. and the next morning at the casern Eolfrid was also nowhere to be seen. I asked around but noone knew where both of them were. it was just as if they had completely disappeared from the surface of the earth. I came then to Huldrak seeking for help. He was the one to reveal me that Eolfrid was capable of changing into a bear... That's all I dare to say for now.

*
* *

Gustavius was the first to break the silence.
- "Well, then we need head down Shotia, strike at the thief's guild while they are weak fighting each other. Saving your girl on the way is just the icing on the cake"
- "what is it with you and the thief's guild ?" wondered Erleothir
- "not much" replied Gustavius defensively "it's just a logical way of thinking, it's obvious to me they have an item and at least further information about it." he played a bit with the octagonal box and added after a brief pause "and besides you get to save the damsel in distress."
- "I disagree" interrupted Griselda "we should head for Boari and find that Telchos. Your girlfriend is safe."
Gustavius glanced at her quickly "Safe ?! since when is 'being-kidnapped-by-a-darklord' safe? and how come you suddenly feel concerned about Telchos you did not wanted to hear me talk about five minutes ago?"
- "Your girlfriend is safe, Erleothir, the dark lords must think she knows something about the keys and will not dare to harm her. She is a prisoner, yes, but not in immediate danger. besides she probably knows nothing and the dark lords are losing their time."
- "Time !" retorted Gustavius "It's 24 days to Shotia and by then the thieves guild may already be restructured."
- "and ?"
- "and what ? the girl will be dead. Shotia is the most obvious road to choose, look: we have two confirmed tracks. the name of the girl and the thieves guild. what do we have in Boari ? nothing. Just a random telchos with an unusual pet"
- "I really don't see in what the thieves guild is a hint in our quest. And it's not just a a random telchos. I'm sure of it."

The tone of both Griselda and Gustavius had clearly risen and what has started as a calm discussion was about to erupt into an open dispute. Between them, Erleothir sank his face between his palms while the rest of the group carefully stepped aside and started admiring the environment around them with forced intensity. Obviously they did not wished to be dragged in the discussion. Only the young prince tried half-heartedly to settle down the argument.

It was Griselda to turn around to Erleothir - "I need to talk to you. alone." Silence fell over the table. Erleothir looked at his friends and nodded. All went out. Gustavius the last snarling "it's not over" and spilling half of his tankard while grabbing it along on the way out.

once outside he turned over to Alast. "kid, make yourself useful and try to listen to the door."
- "and what will you do ?" inquired Alast nervously
- " finish my drink..."

After a few minutes Erleothir appeared again in the door frame asking them to come back at the table. Daring stare crossed the company while Yesnarel -still trying to defuse the situation- was looking for setting up a leader for the group. He pointed Erleothir whom wasn't so keen in becoming one. Lost were they trying to figure out what to do and how to decide. Alast set himself aside claiming he was not here to think and rule. Mulchanor was talking to himself looking at his new tiny pistol as he may get it grow talking about his own lack of luck since he joined this Company. Obviously, he was out of the decision process. Ít left the Company on a point of view stand off with only four voters for an obvious vote to be cast.
- We should vote, anonymously. and decide where we go first. said Griselda with a smile.
- Look, she speaks now, Claimed Gustavius, still crossing his arms.
- I agree, said Erleothir, we will act as a group and make the choice definitive.
Yesnarel nodded and grabbed paper that Griselda took unceremoniously from his hands
- Here, she said, write down were you want to go, Shotia or the Boari Jungle. We can't stay here two days to decide!
- Erleothir took his piece of paper and wrote on it quickly. Griselda tried successfully to do the same while Yesnarel wrote, in a beautiful handwriting, his decision. Gustavius was lurking around, trying to know more about an outcome that he feared to be already set.
Griselda started to count:
- 1, 2, 3 for Boari. And one for Shotia. We go to the Jungle, do not fear Erleothir, your friend is safe, we'll deal with the bear and the other of my kin first.
- Let me see those papers grumbled Gustavius.
He counted, not one, nor two but three times the tiny pieces of papers. All the time with the same result. All his complaints were shutted before being pronounced...
- So fine! We'll go to the Boari Jungle and let the girl kidnapped. So much of a choice, but Alas! It is the one I'll follow.

The evening ended and unlike the meal they just had finished, the bill the cook handed over to them was way to salty. They realized, only too late, that they could have shared the Kai's supper as the guests they were.

*
* *

Still moved about their own motivation the group was creating his first inner alliances and allegiances. The unpredictable result won't be seen before they face their firsts dilemma. Soon, they'll board a Skyship. Mythical or legends it was for them, but in two days it will be a reality which will transport them to more dangers than solutions. One last day at the Monastery will bring them the peace and quiet needed before entering the never sleeping Jungle of Boari, holder of a piece of the puzzle they undisclosed with Marghal's death.

New adventure starts the 10th

On being late

2010-10-11T09:06:00.003+02:00

Sorry for the late entries on the Blog, we've been overwhelm by madness and failing organization at work, which lead to blog fail =(

But we are back on track and we will bring 2 more entries ASAP!
Cheers!

Safe and sound

2010-09-27T10:01:00.019+02:00

The company was in a sorry state and it quickly became clear to the Kai lord that healing the fellows would take quite while. It was hard to find who needed help the most. Erleothir with his now dented armour, limping and showing bruises all over the less protected body parts? Griselda, still bleeding abundantly from the various deep cuts inflicted on her during the battles and one arm hanging almost motionless ? Alast playing down his injuries despite a serious need of first aid ? or Gustavius shaking from exhaustion and having slight traces of burn on his hands and on his face ?

The Kai Lord's companions had continued their way westwards. Courageous Blade, so was the name of their saviour, informed them that their meeting was by far not as fortuitous as it seemed. He and his team were sent to search for Dark Raven, the masters had had a premonition and a felling of loss concerning his person.

And that's when Mulchanor started talking.
- What's he saying ? asked Alast to Gutavius
- I have no idea...
- you mean it's not drodarin ? wondered Erleothir
- not even drunk drodarin.
- is there any other way to speak it ?
- hmm your friend seems to be speaking in fever. Said Courageous Blade finally.

Griselda kneeled over Mulchanor's fever shaken body and rapidly found the bite wound of a snake. Poisonous, obviously. All turned to the Kai asking him what could be done to help him; gathering herbs, laumspur, whatever... Courageous Blade shook his head slowly. "There is no possibility for me to get a cure. The only way would be using the blood of Griselda since it holds a resistance to natural poisons." All turned to her. Would she help Mulchanor immediately or would the grudge against him still be too strong ? After a short moment of silence she nodded, probably innerly ranting that she could not have Mulchanor begging her for help. The Kai lord stopped her mid-movement as she was about to cut herself in the palm. "There is no need to open further wounds" he said, while drawing some blood out of her injured leg. She rolled her eyes in a typically annoyed fashion but said nothing. He proceeded to pour the blood into Mulchanor's mouth. Even if Mulchanor did not wake up, it was obvious that this improvised cure was working. His fever sank and his hallucinated speeches stopped.

Luckily for all of them the night passed without further incidents. Under the guidance of Courageous Blade, they finally reached the mountains. A steep road upwards was now their path and soon they had to line up along a narrow trail on the edge of a precipice. The road was difficult but luckily they were not being followed. It seemed that the Kai Lords had continued westwards and were protecting their back. even from dozens of miles away.

The night passed, Courageous Blade pushed back Griselda's attempt at discussing what seemed to be some personal matter. Either he did not want to speak with her or he simply had no clue what she was asking him about. In the background, Erleothir and Gustavius stared at each other, suddenly remembering that they also needed to discuss some urgent matters regarding the keys.
The second day was soon over, the road now easier and the pass not too far away. When looking back in the deserted plains to the West, the companions saw some clouds of dust far away. "No need to worry too much" said Courageous Blade "They are heading for us but still one or two days away. If we march on, everything will be fine." As most were asleep that night, Erleothir and Gustavius shared the first watch. "Gustavius ! we have much to discuss since the imprisonment. Could you maybe enlighten me about one or two details concerning the keys?" those were the last words spoken by a tired Erleothir that Alast could hear before falling asleep.

All woke up early the next day, not much was said. Even if it was the third day travelling towards the monastery under unfailable guidance, the dangers were far from being over. Their rations were all gone. The horses were triping on almost every stone. And the dust cloud to the west was still visible, nearer than the day before. They had now reached the pass and the cold air woke Mulchanor.

- Beer ! was his first word
- not now. sighed Erleothir
- what happened ?
- short version: you got bitten by a snake, went unconscious for the last 3 days and Griselda saved your li...
- where's my gun ? Interrupted the dwarf
- Oh you should have seen it ! it blew up in Gustavius' fa.... started Alast laughing
- gone. quickly interrupted Gustavius
- and my backpack ?
- gone
- and the powder ?
- gone
- and what about my belt with the fire pots ?
- gone
- my munitions ?
- gone
- wait, don't tell me that..
- IT'S ALL GONE ! and after a pause he added: "also you are missing two teeth".

Luckily, before Gustavius had to explain the unlucky loss of Mulchanor's equipment and before the situation escalated, another Kai lord appeared from under the cover of some trees a few hundred meters to the east, he was accompanied by fresh horses. The road was narrow and Courageous Blade made sign to the company that it was time to switch horses. One by one they saddled down and walked along the edge towards the trees. The new kai lord continued westwards taking their old mounts away. Only Erleothir seemed not willing to leave his horse, thus leading to some confusion.

- what's he doing ?
- if I did not know better, I'd say he's trying to annoy Courageous Blade.
and exactly at that moment the Kai Lord started to gesture rudely (according to Kai lord standards ) towards Erleothir.
- see, it works....

The rest of day went without much to tell. Around the evening, they decided to put up a small camp. They were too tired to build up tents and simply unrolled some bedrolls. Their stomachs were rumbling and Griselda decided to see if she could hunt anything edible. She was followed by Gustavius. A hissing discussion arose in the bushes as Griselda tried to make it clear to the loud dwarf that he should go hunt elsewhere. Not even half an hour had passed when Courageous Blade suddenly jumped to his feet.

"Ambush!" he yelled. But before he could do anything half a dozen of bandits had already encircled the camp and were going for Erleothir. Griselda and Gustavius also heard the scream and rushed back to the camp. Luckily for Erleothir, he was so tired when he went to sleep that he was still wearing most of his armor. Even though fighting out of a sleeping bag wasn't anything he had ever done before, he managed to block the oncoming blows by quickly grabbing his shield. Alast was well awake and was already jumping on one of the bandits while Courageous blade struggled to get two opponents off him. Gustavius and Griselda were now almost there.
One coming from the south, the other from the east. Gustavius kneeled down, aimed and shot. The bullet missed its target by a few inches and ended in a tree. Griselda was luckier, or so it seemed, using her bow, she fired an arrow: it hit the bandit in the chest and a cry of surprise was heard. The bandit looked down at the arrow in his chest with slight unease but a smug grin crossed his face as he broke the arrow apart. It had indeed struck his armour, but not perforated it.
With a quick shield bash followed by a straight strike, Erleothir managed to get rid of one of the attackers. In the background, Courageous blade produced a handgun out of his tunic and quickly unloaded it at point blank in the face of another bandit. Alast's opponent jumped at him, but he evaded, completely unimpressed. The bandit hit the ground and rolled back into a standing position, right in time to notice his sword stuck in the ground. With a grin, Alast pulled it out and stroke the bandit down. As Griselda ran towards the camp, she saw that Courageous blade and Erleothir had managed to dispatch two more bandits in a flawless manoeuver. The remaining bandit looked at his dead companions before deciding to run away, unfortunately for him, not fast enough.

Courageous Blade quickly snapped: "There may be more coming, let's get away from here as fast as possible"

Fleeing from the ambush, they resumed riding and kept on the rythm, making fewer pauses now that they were closer to the Monastery. Three full days and three full nights they pressured their horses to hold till the end. They met neither foes nor friends and reached the tall wooden gates of the Monastery. Already spotted many miles ago, silently escorted by Kai Lords on their way, they entered the building under the amused eyes of Courageous Blade. Fatigue took over amazement and they were quickly sent to their quarters while the horses were taken care of. For his part, Courageous Blade left them in the sleeping quarters to rest for the night.

- I'll be asking for you tomorrow morning, be ready to meet our Leader, I am sure he'll have fresh information for you. Good night!

The company noticed with pleasure that they each had their own room. A fine and much appreciated luxury after those last weeks of privations. A good bath was more than enough to let them sleep without worries of safety. Only their own demons tortured them that night.

One by one they woke up, reinvigorated by a real night of sleep. They were summoned in the Kai Chapel before breakfast to meet up with Sharpen Fox and teamed up at the entrance of the dormitories.
Spontaneously. they gathered near the entrance, losing a time they seemed to have forgotten, admiring the stone work, tapestry and the few Kai decorating weapons on the walls. Reality came in the hand of a younger Kai lord, leading them to the center of the chapel. It was a beautiful fall morning, fresh but not cold, sunny but not too bright. Many Kais were training or hurrying to their own tasks, a few shops could be seen, but none were open yet. Local folks lived their lives slowly under the safe protection of the Kais. No one would ever dare to attack them here. Doors seems to be left open, cunningly thought Alast. Quickly reminded of his newly acquired common sense, Alast stepped past the great wooden doors to enter the solemn soil. Silence was broken by murmurs coming from the main altar. Two Kais were talking silently with heavy swift gestures. They stopped as soon as they felt attention upon them. The young Kai came near both, bowing respectfully. He left right after having introduced our heroes. Soon after, almost at the same time as Courageous Blade arrived, the other Kai, mysterious and tall, talked:

- I don't know who is happier to see you, the proud father or the Master Kai who sent you on a mission, smiled the unknown Kai.
- Probably both father, smiled back Courageous Blade. Master Sharpen Fox, those are the men Huldrak asked to recover from the enemy.
- Well, welcome in the Monastery young fellows. Seven persons I was excepting to see. Only five came. I can't feel Dark Raven any more, even if my heart tells me he is alive. And your companion, the Dessi voyager? Speak! Don't make me wait for news I suspect.

After the Nazi ones here comes the...

2010-09-08T11:58:00.001+02:00

Nunchucks!

Black riders

2010-09-04T19:43:00.023+02:00

3rd November 5000

At dawn the company rode away from the dogs, presenting an unusual sight for those who could have seen them: three horses taking five adventurers on their back. They formed a strange group led by a Telchos and closed by a dwarf riding like a man.
The sound of some insects awaking with the sun was abruptly stopped by a:
- WHOOOOOO.....
- Hiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
- Tsssssssssssss!

This last one was almost inaudible by the already far away companions.
Griselda sixth sense made her turn her horse around. “Gustavius, jump ! I’m going to get Mulchanor’s horse back”
Gustavius came down the horse with as much trouble he had to climb and found Mulchanor unconscious on the hard stone. He had lost his two front teeth, rewarding him with a new smile which he surely won't use when he sees his backpack lying on the desert’s ground, all its content broken, scattered and lost for future archaeologists to find. As if to make the situation worse, Gustavius found a smashed keg nearby. All the powder was lost. Not as easy to retrieve as the bullets the desert took from him. Gustavius breathed of relief when he found Mulchanor's gun miraculously intact. At least I have good news for him he thought. I'll keep it charged in case those dogs get on us. And extra shoot will be welcome.
Without time to look for neither the bullets nor the teeth, they went on riding again, fleeing possible enemies chasing them. Erleothir horse listened to his master and led them to a path it seemed to recognize. After some hours they decided they were in a safe enough place in the middle of nowhere, where the mountains could be seen closer, and they could take a nap. A night riding without stop had broken them, except Griselda who was in her element, not even presuming of her newly acquired temporary leadership. They all relied on her to find civilization again.
- Do we have food? Inquired a very talkative Griselda.
- Not so much I'm afraid... Said Erleothir.
- Is Mulchanor still in coma? Asked Gustavius
- Seems to be. Said Alast
- I'll go hunting said Griselda
- I'll go with you answered Alast.
Too happy to have a break both Knight and the dwarves stayed building a resemblance of a camp. Erleothir and Gustavius were almost finished while Mulchanor was still breathing loudly, not giving any hope of helping them. Griselda came back with an undisclosed broken and bloody animal. As they couldn’t use fire, for fear to be detected by their enemies, only the Telchos dared eating the raw meat. The rest of the group dined with roots Alast hunted down.
Griselda couldn't help to smile at him, the fierce root slayer.
When the sun was at its highest, they knew it was time to go, they would not allow their captors to get on them. Surely they won't stop so easily.
Erleothir managed to sense problem coming and searched for possible elements ahead. He found a strange cloud coming at them, against the wind. Griselda hawk eyes recognized men at arms. Silently they turn their horses toward a more southern position. They escaped and managed to spend a quiet night. Mulchanor was still not showing any sign of life.
Another day riding left them bored but aware, those incidents since they were saved by Dark Raven left marks on their bodies remembering them that the desert is treacherous and full of surprises. After those warning they weren't surprised to discover not one, but two clouds of smoke coming at them: one from the North, another from the South.
- Damn, what should we do now? We can't go back! Said Erleothir
- How many are they? Asked Gustavius
Promptly Griselda shouted, as if she wanted to wake Mulchanor up.
- Nine come from the North, black riders, I can't see weapons nor face... Fifteen from the South. Let's build a fake camp here and we'll try to go by the middle!
This time they didn't lose any arguing and cooperated as one body. Leaving a fire and some things behind they pushed the poor horses harder. After twenty minutes they all, in vain, searched for signals that their plan worked.
- It didn't work! We have to face them one group after the other if we want to survive. Let's take the nine riders first! Commanded Erleothir.
Choosing the lesser of the two bad, they charged at their enemy. Griselda received a bow and arrows from Gustavius and happily got it ready, she couldn’t wait to be in range to shot the arrows and get rid of those bandits. The quicker they'll get there more time they'll have to get to a defensive position against the bigger group. Mulchanor wasn't waking, five hundred meters till the clash. Let’s hope the aren't carrying long range weapons. Four hundred meters… Four against nine: what are the odds in their favour? Three hundred meters. A quick look back, the second group hadn't realized they were engaged in a collision course with the first one. There is no chance they are not together. The more time they'll lose, the more time we can get ready, if we manage to stay alive. Two hundred meters, soon we'll see if they have ranged weapons. One hundred meters, nothing, they have none. They want to be sure they can have us, those are no mere bandits.
- Stop the horse! I need to get down and find a good shooting position! shouted Gustavius
- All right! Said Alast, I'll get their attention, watch my back Master dwarf!
Riding again, lighter this time, Alast planned on using his pirate skills hoping for some bull eyes accurate gun shots in between.
Griselda broke on her left, taking two black riders following her and a still knocked out Mulchanor. Two to one was not bad. Erleothir aimed for the center, he would be the Spear Head. Three riders were expecting the clash. Alast was not so lucky however and was being targeted by four of them.
From afar Gustavius was already aiming to a rider, his first shot misfire and ended up dying on sand. Meanwhile the missed enemy, helped with three more foes, was surrounding Alast. Erleothir was already battling on two fronts, letting his horse smashing one enemy while his sword swung for a deadly blow which finished its short life on a diminished shield. Griselda soon gave up the idea of using the bow in fight. The first two arrows missed and she was now too close to make a relevant use of the weapon, she thus switched to her spear. However, hindered by the bow on her back, she failed to avoid an enemy blade which deeply slashed into her right arm. Getting overrun, she used her Telchos skills against her opponent and efficiently incapacitated him, for the moment. Her efforts were turned into nothing. She simply wasn’t as agile with her left arm and a dagger than with her right hand holding a spear. It started as bad as it would end for her.
Alast tried to fight back as much as he could, avoiding as many coups as possible, bleeding from all sides but fighting like a lion, a whirlwind on his horse. He missed some cuts but each hitting blow was a prelude to sudden death. Another shot was fired. Mulchanor's gun hit one more time, but not its target: it exploded right on Gustavius face, bruising him, almost broking his nose. The gun's cannon flew right over his surprised face.
- Arggggggggg! Not now! Cursed Gustavius, sweeping the powder left over his face. Grumbling and throwing Mulchanor's useless weapon, he grabbed his own gun, hoping for better luck.
Erleothir’s horse was hurting the enemy, but no sound was heard. In between hacks and slashes, one of the attackers fell dead, pouring blood over his running horse. Griselda's arm was showing her bones, as the last cut was deep and accurate. Luckily no major artery was cut. Enraged and mad about her lack of efficiency she used one deadly technique to save herself. But once more, the wind was the only one hurt. A grin could be seen under the enemies’ hoods for they knew she was getting tired. One short slash was avoided by her dexterity, but she couldn't avoid the deeper cut in her left leg which almost cut her knee off. Painfully she stood on her horse fighting for her life. As the opponent was still bent on her, trying to get his sword off the flesh, she slashed his neck with her dagger and jumped off her horse to finish him off, forgetting the fight was far from over.
Alast, was managing to deal with his four adversaries, using his horse as a cover, making the enemy wait for his turn before giving him the "coup de grace". But he fought more for his life than for money. Relentlessly he turned around offering both his back and weapons alternatively to his enemies. One, then a second fell motionless on the already hot sand.
-Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! Griselda stung her last enemy down. Unconsciously she fought protecting Mulchanor body. Another shot was heard. Alast wouldn’t have to turn any more, only one was left. Erleothir finished his enemies off and then went to the rescue of the wounded Telchos. He gave her a Laumpsur potion that she sipped avidly. Soon, the last black rider turned into desert food, as Alast and Gustavius unceremoniously finished him.
No time to feel relieve though, they looked back and already could see new enemies, a fresh troop, coming at them. Fifteen more enemies. Riding fast. They would be there in less than fifteen minutes.
No time was left to waste.
- We need to flee now! Screamed Erleothir.
Alast was the fastest to get ready, helping Gustavius to get on his horse, Mulchanor still layed unconscious on Griselda’s horse, covered in blood from the riders and Griselda, badly hurt after her fight. The potion did help and restore some of her endurance, but she was still wounded and diminished by the merciless riders strikes. Riding away from the fresh troops arriving, the tired horses and wounded heroes couldn't match the riders fresh mounts and hardiness. They would now be on them at any minute. The first scouts were already on their flanks, pressing them into a thinner and easier to control group. If this end up in a fight, it would be a very short one. Four more riders were on their tail, almost able to catch them. The company’s mounts were quickly tiring. Two more bandits were closing, soon after, it was ten herding them. Eleven, the horses were slowing down, giving up after those hard days, fourteen riders, hope started to fade in their hearts, fifteen. Time was up. Surrounded, the light of steel blades reflects met their looks. When all seemed to be lost, two straight bolts marked the beginning of the last journey for two of the mysterious stalkers. This unexpected bolt of hope reanimated their will to survive. Whoever was in front of them, it was a better option than now.
The unknown pursuers closed onto them, trying to grab them, Mulchanor almost fell once more, but Griselda pressed her body against him and the horse, getting the dwarf far from the enemies grasp. She stroke one rider on her left, shattering her spear in his horse flank. More arrows fell. Horses and men fell together, several of them won't stand anymore. Alast slashed one enemy, leaving his horse with with a dead weight on till he felt, leaving the animal free in the wild. Five new riders came fast toward them, getting the black riders attention. Encouraged by those bold moves, Gustavius tried to strike one Rider on his left, but he forgot he was shorter than his grands Companions. He managed to stay on the horse grabbing a stone on the floor to imediately throw it to the rider at his right.
- CATCH! The dwarf said.
The rider left in sword rolling in the sand, grasping the stone efficiently. The incoming new friends were clad in green, the colour of hope. The combat was from there fast and almost simple. Those were not mere soldiers. Without any words they gave the deads’ horses to our heroes. Those green riders surely won the company gratitude today. No words were spoken till they all reached the cover of the mountains. Right under the now clear moon, around a fire underneath the cover of a distorted rock, four riders left their company. One stayed behind, saluting his leaving friends with a revered short bow.
Sitting nearby the fire, the all waited, questions burning their lips, but they got one before they were allowed to ask their own.
- So my friends, let me see your injuries, I think I can help.

Köln RPC : journey to the heart of RPG

2010-09-04T18:17:00.001+02:00

Köln RPC : journey to the heart of RPG

It all started on a Friday... or was it Friday ? Anyway, a few days before our GM's birthday. We were all brainstorming to find THE present when a clue came unexpectedly in the form of a little voice " He would be soooo happy to go to the convention and meet Joe Dever !!! "

We looked at one another: hum indeed, good idea, why not ? And a smile came to our faces... But, he shouldn't go there alone, right ? And therefore it was decided that on April, 18th - 20th the GM would meet his co-God accompanied by Gustavius and Griselda (to the dismayof Erleothir who was to spend the week-end with his parents … ).

On the very day of the trip, as the day went by, the motivation grew steadily to reach a maximum at Feierabend. Köln, here we come !

The trip was uneventful : rowing when overtaking cars, taking the wrong turn while following GPS instruction, randomly coming across the " hotel Moutons ", taking another wrong turn, thanks again to the GPS and finally turning three times around the block – crossing the RPC parking lot at the occasion – before finally, at 22h00, checking in the hotel, yeah !

Tired, we still took time to map the road for the coming days (where are the most interesting stands ? What are the lectures we want to attend ? Which workshop would it be fun to take part in? ). After finishing our drinks, feeling ready, we decided to call it a night.

The following day, we met in the hotel lobby for breakfast – on the way, we met other guests whom we suspected to be attending the convention too... or why would they be wearing their armour otherwise ? Some of us might have felt a little out of place amongst all those "profis", especially wearing casual clothes.

On that bright, bright sunshiny day, we left on foot to the RPC enjoying every sign bringing us closer ( 500 m ! 300 m ! 150m ! Parking on the left ! 75m ! ). On the stairs to the main entrance, Storm troopers served as welcome committee. We proudly pulled out our tickets and smiled our best smile to the opening host and hostess. We were there.

Orks, wizzards, fairies, random magical characters, aliens, … the RPC call had been answered by all fans, no matter their universe and it was a surprizing sight.
The crowd was mixed: all ages, both sexes were represented in almost equal share. The plan established the day before was quickly dismissed as we entered the hall 1 mainly dedicated to computer games and an incredibly vast weapons, accessories and armors store.
In this crowd, the Square-Enix stand was rather disappointing... so small and without any news, not even any reviews of their previous hits. They only offered a short demo of FFXIV where the only "enemy" one could kill was a herd of sheep .. epic !

Of course, we couldn't resist the temptation to try some of the weapons and gears everytime we happened to walk by the store, obviously by chance, nothing intentional.

The morning was already gone and Griselda was craving for a cup of coffee. We thus moved to the cafeteria strategically placed between the two halls.
After a little break in the good company of previously encountered aliens and Alan Ripley, we took a deep breath and confidently entered the second hall. Only to stop five meters further, to dive in the boxes full of figurines to paint.

We indeed came with a shopping list containing : a GM figurine, a D100, maps and possible rule books. The first stand looked promising and we felt sure we would find everything we needed and even more.

However, there was a catch... " I need a real d100 " exclaimed the GM, but all what the stands had to offer were ersatz, that is to say, the combination of 2d10. But who said we can be that easily defeated? After hearing the same answer 5 times, we kept on asking untill... a polish stand ! The largest dice selling stand of the place, a gamer's paradise, there dices for all styles, all forms, all sizes... even cheatting dices ! and some strange tokens " what are those tokens for ? " " well, there are tokens ?! " " oh! "

It didn't deter the GM who asked

" Do you have a d100 ? " and the salesman replied in the most natural way " of course "

And here came the dreaded question " which color ? Blue, white, black or red ? "

" Blue ! Black ! " were heard at the same time, leaving Gustavius speechless and the salesman laughing. The GM took the last word and got it black.

It was now time to move to the end of the room and pay a visit to Joe, who undoubtebly had been waiting for us all day.

Once in front of him, we went shy and didn't really dare press forward. But the GM took his books out and lined up to get them signed. We immediatly followed and ordered tshirts for every one, and then also a map of the Magnamund, and also a poster, or maybe two, and the four little ones too. Oh Christian do you have that book ? It was only the three of us, but it was enough to send the assistant in a little panic "what size for the t-shirts ? I hope we have enough … "

We left him to check and followed Joe to the main poster for a photoshoot session with him. First individually, for our two cameras, then group pictures (in double of course ). Amazing Joe, still smiling through the coming cramps.

We left him return to his other fans, after a handshake and last few words of thanks and congratulation for his work. We stayed longer with two young guys helping out : the translator of Lone Wolf series in German and Moritz, a gamer.
Not forgetting any of the purchased items, we moved on to the yard.

The yard was kind of a let down: a training fighting area, several medieval / leather shops, a roasting piglet and the usual restoration stands. However, in that slightly uninteresting part, there was one very fascinating point : why is there a journalist interviewing an owl and its owner ? the question is still unanswered today …

We came back inside, saluting Joe from afar, and then finished the visit of the hall with a quick stop to the anime area ( quite empty ). New shopping session, further researches, more wandering, oh look ! star wars is talking to star trek !!

Though tempted, we decided not to take part in the on-going table games... too technical, not enough time and honestly, we were starting to be tired and needed to rest.

We made a brief halt at the hotel to drop our stuff and left again, heading west, toward the city.

To get a detailled touristic description of Köln please do not hesitate to ask somebody else or check their website.

We discovered Köln through necessity : where can we sit for an apéritif and where can we then go to dine ? Or do we really want to dine ? We crossed the famed "locks bridge" next to the philharmonic and facing the train station, behind the dom: you can't miss it.
We entered in the dom just long enough to decide not to visit it and then, we followed a street which lead us through the old city and then to the new one and back. Time was passing by and we were getting really thirsty. Necessity calling, we stop at an italian restaurant, planning on only drinking an aperitif there... but we ended up staying for diner as the menu was really inviting. We definitely made the right choice, it was excellent.

We almost stayed there for the night but, our energy levels being back to full, we felt the RPC call again. We weren't sure something was going on there, they might not been expecting us, but we still went, following our instinct.
The main hall was empty, there wasn't the smallest sound and we sent Gustavius to scout. When he came back, escorted, we thought it was over... but no, a party was indeed taking place in the yard. Very quiet and intimate, mainly for the RPC workers. To reach it, we walked through deserted halls and silently laughed at the security guards fighting with fake spears, bows and axes...
We sat at a table, enjoyed a few beers in the warm evening, listened to the live medieval performance while chatting.

The cold brought us back to the hotel for a last drink.

We set off late the next morning. No we didn’t oversleep, we simply took time to enjoy the hotel’s breakfast buffet (oh those mini portions!) and to look around – namely, stare at the other guests. There were also a few minutes used to adjust Gus’ clothing because yes, he dared enter the lobby with an old polo shirt instead of proudly wearing his Lone Wolf T-Shirt as convened. Immediately spotted by Griselda (yes indeed those t-shirt have the power to put the Gamer in their character) she instructed him to go back to his room and change before coming further. Ah the face of the other guests when then saw us three so properly dressed! We didn’t look amateur anymore.
Once in the Messe, after a quiet and short walk under a warming sun, we crossed the first hall which had lost some of its interest. The second hall was still the heart of the convention. Anxious to know if Joe Dever made it to the top and received a RPC Award for his amazing work, we came to his stand and we think there was a hint of fear in his eyes (there was for sure fear in his assistant’s eyes ^^). All smiles we congratulated him, chatted a little and set for a new picture session. Such nice pictures that they have been posted on his facebook page with the title “true fans” – yes, we ARE proud of that too.
We finished our little round, looked for further maps, accessories, figurines, books and what else, happily waved good-bye to Joe from across the stands and left generally satisfied by our visit.
Once at the hotel, checking out was quick and we soon found ourselves on the road back home. A trip long but animated by our conversations…
The convention will have a 2011 edition: who’s in?

I Don't Want Directions

2010-08-23T09:51:00.001+02:00

does it ring a bell to anyone ?

Out in the Wild

2010-08-09T23:15:00.016+02:00

Slowly, waking up from the dead, Griselda, confused and changed, looked sadly to Lightning. Deep in her stone heart she knew her brief friend made the ultimate sacrifice for her. Kneeling nearby the corpse, Alast spoke reverence and honorable words to the Mage. With his sacrifice, the pirate buried the grudge between them. He now saw him as a fallen comrade. Silently Erleothir prayed for his immortal soul to return to the Gods...

Discussion arose as the Sun came higher in the grey sky. Mulchanor was taking the armor off the drakkarim pieces. Right after securing a couple of horses.
- Help me out! He screamed to Gustavius
- You too! He said turning back to Alast
Erleothir and Griselda were going out for the rest of the beasts. It was mostly the Telchos whom managed to get them ready while the Knight was looking for a proper burial, but time was not enough. Already sounds could be heard, unnatural one. Luckily for them, no Kraan was in the fortress, little sister of what will one day be the mighty Argazad.
- What are we going to do with the corpse? We need to burn him! Nervously shouted Griselda.
Erleothir was thinking of a proper way to leave Lightning remains untouched from the enemies hands and he tried to light up Lightning a last time. After several failed attempt Griselda blanket covering their fallen friend start to burn. First fragile flames danced over him but shortly after all the blanket was burning. They left him this way, innocently waiting for this to burn him completely. They couldn't imagine the surprise of the drakkarim encountering a dismembered naked fallen comrade nearby a dead magician partially skin burned in the middle of a battlefield with dead horses and four more strangely dead comrades. They left the magician body untouched fearing a curse.
For days, wild animals and insects feasted on them. Still nowadays, the drakkarims avoid this part of the hills. Cautious about the deadly vengeance of the wild dead Mage.

All set for departure, human voices could be heard nearby, time was pressing by!
After some attempts all were on their own horses. Instinctively, Erleothir was driven to a battle horse he knew was bound to him. A Nameless horse was now his lesser worry so he rode fast opening the way toward liberty with Griselda, now in her element.
- Follow me, we have to go n...
He could finish his phrase as an arrow deepen in the Gustavius's horse neck. So much work he had to finally seat on the animal, surprised by the weight of such short fellow. Desperately the Dwarf was trying to get from under the horse when two heavy armored drakkarim rode fiercely willing to finish the job they started.
Driven by instinct our heroes formed battle like never before. The true warriors blood sang higher than fear. The first drakkarim was shot by a accurate Mulchanor mixing the metal of the drakkar armor plate in his bleeding flesh. He grinned, left his spear felt on the floor but stood stoically on his mount. Coming alongside him a second drakkar waved now his sword arrogantly toward the Sommerlund Knight, resolute himself to kill his country arch enemy. Closing to each others an head shot killed the horse of the wounded drakkar. Both cavalier and beast bite the dust. Close enough to Alast for him to backstab him to death. Clashing shield and swords both fighters first round left them unarmed. They rode mechanically facing each other in a more impetuous confrontation. Meanwhile, Griselda was set to kill another rider coming from another direction and didn't failed to kill his horse. Enraged by being thrown by a woman, he cursed her in a blind rage which expired guturraly impaled in Griselda single spear blow. Miraculously, another rider killed himself, and his horse while riding down the hill. A poetic justice which warned them that soon they would be overrun. Erleothir finished his enemy merciless as he would have expected to be treated by his now dead enemy.

- Come on let's go! Shouted again Griselda. But in the heat of the battle only four horses were to be found alive. Riding for their lives they followed the sun set, knowing their enemies wouldn't feel so much at ease facing the burning star. Alast allowed Gustavius to ride with him, letting his horse carrying an heavier burden than the others. Time passed by, bored but bewared of possible troubles their continued they way toward what they think would save them, or, at least, take them far away from their captors. The day went on without any interesting point to be noticed when bad luck hit them as fast as an unwelcome relative knocks on your door. Alast horse felt, breaking one of his four legs. Both Alast and Gustavius rolled over the dust, avoiding stones and insects more by chance than reflexes. Some bruises were made but nothing that could disable them for long. The horse, on the contrary, was sadly hurt beyond any chance of recovery. If only Dark Raven was there! He may have saved him with his Medical Science! Kai Lord can operate real miracles.
- We need to put the animal out of misery, we have to kill him. Said Mulchanor.
- Then we can eat it.
A silent laugh transformed this odd moment into a torpor, torpor which was broke by a gunshot, tolling also time for diner. A few hours later the drakkarims chasing them found the carcass of an half eaten horse. Desert predator fed and fought on the rests. After the mage slaughter they encountered a couple of dead akatzs. The battle for the left overs was fierce. One drakkar cursed the luck of the escaped prisoners as he was fond of his war beasts. Kneeling on the wet blooded sand, lifting the body of his precious Following their trails the akatzs searched for them. Hoping for more easy food.

The company was now missing two horses and both Eleothir and Alast as well As Griselda and Gustavius were sharing a mount. The situation was dire, while they wanted to leave this land as quick as possible, they could not afford to fatigue their horses too much. Soon night fell and the small group hastily build camp. They quickly dismissed the idea to make a fire fearing to attract enemy scouts or worse predators. While they where building up the tents, Mulchanor turned Over to Gustavius.
- "Hey, Psst, Gus ! look what I got here!" He said with a grin while pulling out a bootle of whine from his bag. A bright smile enlightend Gustavius' face
- "uuuh where did you got that one ?" - "With compliments form the drakkarim patrol" grinned Mulchanor. from around the corner of a tent a tall figured appeared
- "what are you up to you two ?!" it was Griselda
- "nothing" replied Gustavius a little bit too promptly while Mulchanor was hastily hiding the bottle behind his back.
- "we were ermm.. discussing who would take the guarding shifts" Erleothir came by and the shifts were quickly set down. While Erleothir and Griselda would share the first shift Mulchanor and Gustavius wanted to wait up for everyone to be quietly asleep to have a drink during their own shift and eventually wake up Alast afterwards.

The first shift went without any particular events, Griselda sighed at her white hairs and decided that a new haircut might help her maintaining a proud face. Even without saying a word it was clear she was still seething about the recent events. she rapidly dropped a word to Erleothir about the two dwarves and a bottle and went on with her business. Erleothir just shrugged and stared at the moonless and starless sky.
- "so that's why they call it darkland..." Time passed by and no sooner had they laid down to sleep after waking up Mulchanor and Gustavius that the sound of a bottle being uncorked was to be heard. Both dwarves drank the whole night while chatting and remembering all the events of the last month while outrageously exaggerating their deeds. It was only as the sun set that they notice that they had forgotten to Wake up Alast and that it was in fact time to continue their perilous trail towards the east.

They had not travelled for long when Griselda suddenly stopped. Being in a harsh desertic environment was almost like being home and all her senses were alert.
- "there is something to the north of us"
- "what do you see ?"
- "I don't *see* it but I *feel* it and it might be heading to us" The group quickly agreed that whatever was coming from the north it was better not be near it. unable to decided if that presence knew they were here they decided to continue east wards while taking a slow detour to the south and paying attention not to leave too much trace behind them. After a few hours Griselda confirmed that the danger of being discovered seemed to be over. They were gaining kilometres and the mountain range to the east, natural barrier between the Darklands and Sommerlund, was growing with every hour. It was unclear when they would finally reach Civilisation and their concerns to keep their mounts alive, riding as fast as possible and still having enough food where growing just as fast. With the help of Griselda the group managed to find some water from the rare plants in the landscape and had a frugal meal composed of insects and some of their rations. Soon their shadows where stretching far too long and it became clear that they had to rest for the night. With a slight sigh of relief they noticed that the brightest stars where visible again in the nightsky. A clear sign that they were slowly escaping the clutches of the dark realms. But the company could not count on lady luck to watch over them all the time. Their second guard was not even over when spectral howling sounded over the desolate plains. "I don't know what it is but I don't want to be nearby when it reaches our camp. we should leave immediately." It became clear To Griselda that wild dogs and even worse, Doomwolves, that had been tracking them since they had killed the horse had finally closed the gap and where rushing for them. Fighting a pack of dogs and wolf in the darkness would not be so easy and escape was their only chance. If only the animals would not be so fast... or had a diversion. She remembered the strong smelling baknar oil and quickly grabbed on of the kegs in her bag pack while the rest of the fellowship was hastily packing and reading the horses. She threw the keg towards the sounds of the dogs, and Mulchanor Imitated her move. As the two kegs broke and the oil splashed around, the dogs suddenly changed course. It was just enough time for everyone to ride off into the foredawn.

Pics 31st of July 2010 Gustavius Manor

2010-08-03T09:47:00.006+02:00

Enjoying Malaysian Curry

yes, it's a Hawaii shirt...

At the Planetarium

In front of the projector

Discussing the new skills and rules

Frozen

2010-07-31T17:42:00.005+02:00

31th October 5000

The five survivors couldn't believe Lightning was dead. Silence overtook their will. He was dead to them, returning to another plane of life.

Level 5 recommendations and congrats! You made it so far!

2010-07-03T13:03:00.005+02:00

- At level 5 you are all expected to know your character and what he can do. So, brush up your knowledge ! Same for Xp standings and names of NPCs... and follow the story line =)
- Know how the phases are run: combats are by turns, role play in live action.
- Tell me if something is not clear enough and what I can improve to put you more "in game".
- Too much out of game situations and bad behaviour in game (or really stupid actions: if you have a good intelligence don't do stupid things) will lead to negative Xp.

Level 5 is also when things get tougher, harder and more serious for the players. So a little bit of preparation from your side is also needed: background story, bestiary learning etc... Know the differences between basic enemies : giaks, drakkarim, liganim, nadziranim, raccoons, cener druids and many more! Basically you get more into it =) To understand it all in an efficient way, I would say that the best strategy is to read the Lone Wolf books. After that you'll be able to recognize most of the Magnamund and its inhabitants, so take a leap in!

Questions? Remarks? Please do!

For a greater Good

2010-07-03T12:10:00.030+02:00

Turak looked at them and said: - We need to know where the Brumalmarc is first. But having you fully armored here may not be the best way to enter. I have a plan, let's pretend you are our prisoners, I go ahead and find where he is, once I know where he is, I'll keep a watch on the door with Dark Raven. You'll have them to finish the Nadziranim off. What do you think? One by one they nodded agreeing with the plan, but they all wanted to know what will happen to their weapons. Quickly they hide what could be possible to hide, giving the other, too bulky weapons, to the suddenly heavy loaded barbarians while faking being tied up. Turak stopped at a door along the corridor. "wait here, I have to find out where the Brumalmarc was last seen" with those word he stepped through the door. Loud talking, cheers and laughs were to be heard and he quickly reappeared in the corridor. "Fine, I know where he is, just follow me" After a few meters the corridor had a T-shaped junction. to their left at the end of the tunnel was a large wooden door to be seen. "there he is," started Turak "I'll get in, inform the Brumalmarc and will come back to introduce you" "what about our weapons?" interrupted Erleothir"I will put them against the wall to the right of the door, and you wait for my signal to come in." As Turak entered the room, everyone prepared mentally for the fight to come, and how to walk nonchalantly with large weapons hidden behind the back or in a leg of their trousers. A noise inside the room was to be heard, like something catching fire followed by a loud thump. All looked at each other anxiously. "errm.. I am not entirely sure this is the signal Turak was supposed to give us, but... we should definetly get in there!" With a rush, they kicked the large door open and rushed inside the room, it was Ikaya's large library, bookshelves were along the walls, in one corner of the room was a small table to be seen, support for small objects they could not recognize, somewhere to the left against the wall, was a small pillar. the middle of the room itself was rather empty except for the smoldering body of Turak. And of course at the end of the room was a large wooden table, a tall figure behind it was just starting an incantation. While Mulchanor was struggling to pull his rifle out of his trousers, Erleothir rushed forward, shield up, to the Nadziranim - because, yes, it was him, in the shape of Barbarian leader - with only one thought in his mind: interrupting the incantation. But the evil wizard was faster, he pulled out his sword which suddenly ignited in blueish and crackling energy. Griselda jumped to the side, where their leftover weapons were stacked and skillfully threw Gustavius his rifle, before running to the small table on the far corner of the room. Things happend quickly then. Alast ran to the pillar to the left while pulling out his dagger, Erleothir with a strong movement, turned the heavy table over and buried the nadziranim under it. in the same moment Alast was artistically running up the pillar to have a better vantage point and threw his dagger towards the enemy. But then something odd happened. The small glowing crystal standing on the top of the pillar nobody had fully noticed, fell down and broke upon hitting the ground liberating arcs of crackling energy between its shards and the figure of the Barbarian under the table. Griselda had her dagger in her hand and was about to jump at the shape when one of those bolts struck her, leaving her falling unconscious on top of the turned over table. Mulchanor aimed at the mass of unconscious bodies and shot. The bullet clearly hit, unleashed a fountain of blood and sent an ear flying through the room. Unfortunately it was Griselda's blood and ear being sprayed around.

"oops" he muttered.

But none of them had time to react horrified. there were the crystal fell was now a tall dark figure grinning maliciously at them. The man in the dark clothes opened his arm and it seemed an electrical storm was unleashing from his fingers, hitting everyone in the room. Alast grabbed his spare dagger and plunged it into the throat of the man, quickly joined by Erleothir who bashed the apparition between his shield and the pillar behind him. Before he could grab the sword that lightning had teleported to him, Gustavius had finished him off with a well placed shot. On the turned over table Griselda was slightly regaining conciousness, seeing the other body below her in a mist of blood she quickly grabbed her dagger and slashed through his throat before slipping into grateful unconsciousness

- that could have gone better... what just happened and where did that second evil wizard came from ?

but Dark Raven was rushing in the room, obviously extremely tormented and quickly grabbed some potions and poured them into the mouths of Griselda and the bleeding body below the table. slowly some barbarians entered the room. Dark Raven turned to the company, "you almost killed the Brumalmarc! now it will take all my skills save all of us." In hushed tones Dark Raven started talking to one of the more impressive Barbarians while the company had to endure some extremly tense stares. four barbarians carried the bodies of Griselda and of the figure crushed below the table. Mulchanor tried half hearted to reach the body of the dark wizard next to the pillar but the barbarians stopped him.

- well errm, we're really sorry, we... did not knew exactly what we were doing...

- that my friends seems to be your trademark, well anyway, the harm is done but I managed to convince them not to kill you. for now.

- hey, where are they bringing Griselda ? asked lightning

- to the infirmary, with the brumalmarc, i still need to discuss the matter with the chiefs, you will be escorted to the barracks.

- I want to go with Griselda. continued Lightning

- no, you don't understand, you *will* go with the others to the barracks. I do the talking here.

but Lightning was not listening and made his way following the people to the infirmary, two barbarians gently went into his way and showed him the way back but Lightning would not follow the advice. he was quickly joined by a seriously annoyed Gustavius "won't you listen to what the Kai said ? she will be fine and we're in a bad position, so stop your little games now" Lightning looked down at the dwarf, "pah, like I will listen to you", more barbarians had gathered in the corridor trying to block the way to lightning without wanting to resort to violence before Dark Raven had finished counselling with their lieutenants. But it was Gustavius who finally lost patience and grabbed the Wizard with a resigned sigh. The barbarians promptly formed a circle around them hoping to see some combat and already betting and who would win. But unlike their initial thought Gustavius did not wanted to start a fight, he was just gaining time for the barbarians to carry both bodies away from sight to the infirmary. After making sure that Lightning could not follow them he just let the wizard go with a snarl "pretentious buffoon..."

Erleothir, Alast, Mulchanor, Lightning and Gustavius finally followed some barbarians to the sleeping quarter and barely noticed the fact that they were now held prisoner there... After a while Gustavius and Mulchanor went for the door asking for something to eat, and most importantly something to drink. Erleothir was the first to break the silence by openly asking the question most of them where rummaging about "Did you understood what exactly went wrong in there?" - "Not sure" started Mulchanor, "we went in, the Brumalmarc started attacking us obviously he was the Nadziranim in disguise, but then a second figure appeared and attacked us too" - Alast acknowledged "yes, that was when that shiny crystal fell from the pillar and then there was this strange bolt..." - "didn't Dark Raven said that the Brumalmarc was held prisoner in a crystal ?" wondered Gustavius upon hearing the word crystal, but then he continued "but that does not make sense, the crystal prison should be bigger and taller than a human..." Their thoughts were interrupted by the barbarians delivering a large plate of salted meat and to the joy of the dwarves, two barrels of ale.

They were finishing their fifth pint when the door opened again and Griselda, a bandage around her head entered the room. Erleothir stood up galantly but she just stared furiously at both dwarves, Gustavius shrugged and pointed at his companion. "his fault... how is the Brumalmarc ?" Now it was to Erleothir's turn to stare at the dwarf with the typical "you-never-know-when-to-shut-up-and-what-did-you-just-asked-to-her??" look. "well obviously I am ... fine" interrupted Griselda and helped herself to some food while sitting away from all of them. She started munching throwing dark stares form time to time around her.

"soo, The Brumalmarc which we thought was the Nadziranim was in fact the Brumalmarc all along ? that does not make sense..." burbled Gustavius in his pint. "I still think the bolts emmenating from that crystal have something to do with this..." Continued Erleothir. "well isn't that obvious ?" said an annoyed voice, all turned around, it was Griselda speaking, "the small crystal was the prison. how would you possibly hide a man sized translucent crystal with the Brumalmarc inside from the eyes of his people ?" the penny dropped for all of them. It made sense. the spirit of the nadziranim was inhabiting the Brumalmarc, when the crystal was destroyed the magic was dissipated and the spirits were switched back in that strange energy bolt they had seen.

The door opened and Dark Raven entered the room. He was visibly exhausted. "I have explained them the situation and tried to make clear that you meant no harm... We may go now, in fact we should go immediately before they change their mind" Mulchanor looked up from his eighth pint, "so, ermmm you think we could ask for an appropriate reward ?" The Kai Lord gasped "getting alive out of here is the reward, master dwarf!" Gustavius took a last gulp from his tankard "and, what about Aliki ?" Again the Kai Lord looked in horror "never, ever mention his name again, for your and his safety"

The barbarians had given them a third sleigh and their old guides, Rajah and Hassam where waiting for them at the main gates of Ikaya, the trip back to Ljuk went without event and They entered the city at night. The war had been averted but they were not returning heroes, They boarded the Valtariol enshrouded in mist as if to hide the shameful success. A tired captain franklin greeted them, obviously Ljuk had been through some rough time as well. As they made themselves comfortable in their old cabin the ship was unceremoniously leaving the port.

And then it happened on the third night on the ship. A presence in their cabin woke Erleothir up. It was a grayish figure, pointy ears, prominent chin and lower teeth. He screamed "ALAARM". But only for mitigated success, while his fellows were now fully awake the room was swarming with giaks. the fight was lost even before it could start, four figures were holding each of the unfortunte companions while a fifth one was administering them some greenish potion. and then it was all darkness.

The unpleasant thought that things were going extremely wrong slowly grappled itself very tightly into Alasts mind. Followed by a painful awakening on a stony ground. A ray of pale light emanating from a crenel 20 feet above him was barely enough to discern his environment but still enough for his pirate sense to recognize that he and his friends were sharing the same prison room. They were all slowly emerging from a dreamless and numb sleep.
"And when you think things can't possibly go worse..." muttered Erleothir "We should see it from the positive side, we're not dead" slowly interrupted Gustavius while checking himself for missing body parts. They were all bruised, battered and contused, and even missing an ear didn't stopped Griselda to move to the heavy metal door and start banging at it. without any further effect than hurting her fists....
Mulchanor glanced slowly around him, scratching his beard "Gustavius is right... why are we still alive?"

the noise of a heavy padlock being opened interrupted them and the cell door opened to let place to three tall drakkarim wearing black, spiky armours. they looked at their prisoners with satisfied superiority. The tallest one pointed at Erleothir and the two other immediately seized him. resistance was quickly retaliated by a hearty punch of gauntlet in the liver. Under the eyes of his friends a blood-spitting Erleothir was dragged to some unpleasant fate.

"oh, right... that's why..." dropped Mulchanor. "wasn't he the one saying it could not get worse ?" muttered Gustavius. He was quickly retorted by his companions "maybe you would want to achieve something useful in the meantime?!!"

"protect your flanks - they will try to aim for the weak spots in the armour - make sure that you can raise your shield above shoulder level - stay in motion to evade the incoming blows" all good and fine advices in theory. but what when you have no shield, and no armour. and you happen to be tied to a torture rack. and that drakkarim has decided to unload all his aggressivity on you ? ERleothir felt the incoming blows accompanied by the usual threatenings and from time to time a lucid question "state your name?" - "what do you know about the keys?" - "where are the keys?" - "who has the keys?" but he held tight on the last bit of soul under the relentless pain. "i don't know what you're talking about - and even if i would not tell you..." - "pah- somehow i was hoping you would resist, sommerlund" spitted the gaoler. At a snap of his fingers one of his assistant brought him a red glowing iron. "last chance..." he said, but immediatly applicated the glowing metal on Erleothirs neck. with a smell of buned meat and a loud scream erleothir sank into unconciousness. "Well, that changed a bit from the monotony around here... Tomorrow we'll play with another"

unbeknowst to these gruesome events Gustavius had inspected the room and explained his gfriends that escape was simply impossible. Half heartedly Alast proposed to attack the drakkarim next time they would enter the cell: "they are three, we are five..." but Mulchanor just answered "and they have full body armour and weapons. what do you want to do ? strangle them with your pyjama ?" It was dark by now and there was no more source of light in their prison, all laid down on the cold ground trying to get some rest. hours passed by. Mulchanor suddenly awoke, something had changed. a thin but slowly growing ray of light cut into the darkness, he frowned and quickly put his hand on griselda mouth lying next to him. both were now holding their breath while staring at the door as it opened millimeter for millimeter. and slowly a green travelling cloak appeared. Dark Raven was there ! he had somehow found them and was about to rescue them. quickly and silently all were awoken, in low whispers the Company explained Dark Raven that Erleothir was missing, still beeing chained in some torture room. But this seemed like an easy task now, Dark Raven quickly escorted them to a room adjacent to their cell, With joy they recognised their backpacks and weapons, all had been thoruroughly inspected by the Drakkarim but everything was still intact. "quickly, take your belongings, and wait for me here, I'll be back with Erleothir in a few moments". True to his words he reappeared soon enough, he led them carefully through a twisted maze of corridors. stopping from time to time and rushing forward to make sure the path was clear. or if not, to remove any nuisance in a swift and silent way. the company followed in awe while stepping over a few dead bodies. They soon arrived at what seemed to be the main door of this fortress. To say that the door was large would be an understatement. it was several floors high, large enough for more than six men to walk through and over a meter thick. it was flanked by two towers. and it was naturally closed. All followed Dark raven to one of the towers and started climnbing the stairs. He soon produced a rope out of his backpack and tied it to an opening of the tower. "this is our only way out, we'll have to rappel down the other side of the tower" The view form the tower was desolate, a barren and burned land, a mountainous landscape of brown stonework. Just in front of the main gate the heroes noticed a long wooden bridge crossing a deep crevasse running along the fortifications. But their contemplation was soon interrupted by the sound of bells beeing ranged. "They have found that you have escaped, quick, go down, you'll have to cross the bridge, I have hidden some fresh steed there. whatever happens, ride to the east, across the peaks, continue always to the east until you reach Sommerlund and the Kai Monastery..."

one by one they descended the large tower and rushed over the bridge, arrows whizzling past them. Dark Raven and Lightning were still at the wrong end of the bridge when the large gate slowly opened, The fortress was discharging masses of giaks and Drakkarims. "lightning, we have to gain some times for our friends, help me hold the bridge!"

Out of time for saving themselves, Dark Raven and Ligthning held the doors as much as they could. The Kai was in total battle frenzy making each second deadlier than the last for the giaks. The Mage used all his magic to take down sniper archers and treacherous enemies but Dark Raven knew it was a lost battle. He spoke in Lightning mind ordering him to get back and destroy the bridge. With no more option than using most of his skills, Lightning got away and casted a Fire elemental. The fire destroyed quickly the bridge threatening it to collapse while Dark Raven was disappearing under a mass of enemies...

Now running for his life under the increasing number of arrows Lightning was avoiding them as he was getting far enough from the danger when one hit his leg. He felt as the bridge did. With a last effort he grasped the cliff with one hand. He hardly made it and came behind the hill just in time to see a Drakkarim getting too close from Griselda. He didn't find the strenght to save her in time, his voice covering Griselda last breath, stabbed in her heart.
Neither the Drakkarim as he was decapitated by Erleothir while the dwarves cut his arms down with their hand axes. Alast finished the overkill by a back stabbing dagger.

Irreal was the moment when nothing else matters. All gathered around their fallen camrade. Slowly, Lightning layed down Griselda chanting a magical spalm. His life left his body with blue tones on his skin. Griselda took some colors while she ressucitated. Lightning was gone. For ever.

YOUR help is needed !

2010-06-12T18:03:00.006+02:00

Hello dear Readers,

after much consideration from your devoted blog writers about what has been achieved until now, we would greatly appreciate your help.

Much - not to say all - of what is written here is based on the inner knowledge of our adventurous company. In other words, it is not entirely clear to us if the adventure itself is comprehensible and traceable for an external reader.

That is why we call on your constructive criticism in way to improve the reading experience and the global quality of the storytelling. By constructive criticism we mean a review more elaborated than a simple "yeah that's fun", "nah, it's boring" or your typical facebook 'I like' button.

yours,
Chris and Gus

PS: we would appreciate if non-party readers would "follow" the blog, thus allowing them to respond to our call.

New alliances

2010-06-05T11:29:00.029+02:00

Reaching the outer wall of Ikaya our heroes used this first line of defence of the fortress as a natural cover from the barbarians guards. Pressing against it to avoid the inquisitive looks and iced winds, quick decisions were taken before entering the inexpugnable fortress; murmurs took by the wind flew away from them while they got ready to take action. Storming the castle was foolish and impossible, now only luck could help them. Luck or some barbarian wisdom. The full moon would not help them taking cover, but it will light their way into known paths where no ambush could be prepared. Pressing against the two meters high wall the company saw the sleds with Hassan, Radja and Aliki taking cover and disappearing behind a nearby snow hill, a little bit off track from the path to the impressive Ikayan doors. Griselda had a quick peek over to the inner perimeter and noticed patrolling guards. The heroes remembered Aliki's words and started to look out for a mill. unfortunately none was to be seen - especially for the dwarves who were far to short to even think of trying to look beyond the 2 meters high wall or expecting to see more than some impressing stonework. All had difficulties remembering Alaki's exact words until someone remembered that the mill and the secret entrance were far to the right. As the group started to march yet another sickness attack overcame our adventurers. in order to avoid further interruptions all decided to take a quick bio break. Luckily for them Alast had the excellent idea to have everyone cover his smelly tracks. after a while the mill finally revealed to them, but they shamefully realised that the troubles to hide and quietly reach the mill were unsuccessful as some of them - unlike the dwarves - were a few heads above the top of wall.

"look" said one of the guards on duty on one of the watch posts in the citadel "there is something moving on the wall over there.. "
"naah your eyes are tricking you"
"no, i swear you, there is something moving, it's going eastwards. towards the old mill."
"i don't see anything. besides there is nothing of interest in the old mill."
"i swear you it looks like a chicken .. or the helmet of a Sommerlund knight with a feather on it..."
" i don't know what you were drinking, but i'm sure of two things: you should stop it and concentrate on looking for potential enemies, we still don't know what killed our two scouts. and besides our shift is almost over. now focus !"

as by intuition the taller heroes suddenly remembered that it would be best to duck a bit to allow the wall to *completely* cover them. after a few hundred meters walking in the snow the mill finally appeared in front of them. the first small inconvenience of their sneaky was that the mill was - naturally - on the other side of the wall, inside the defence perimeter. Being perfect gentleman all opted to let Griselda be the first to set food beyond the protecting side of their hideout. But even her survival skills could help her climbing swiftly over the obstacle nor protect her from being seen from the keen eyes of the Ikayan elite guards. Erleothir kindly lifted up Grisleda over the edge allowing her to pull the equipment of the group and unceremoniously toss them on the other side and finally helping her companions. Luckily for them clouds passed and covered the full moon allowing them to remain unseen. the entrance to the old city was now in reach, all rushed forward and Erleothir reminded them to quickly take cover behind the right wall of the old edifice. as they circled the building they soon discovered the entrance, the door was slightly ajar but only darkness resided within. Erleothir was the first to enter, followed by his friends. while Lightning and Griselda were inspecting the building from the outside.

"let's put some light into this matter" said Erleothir while lightning up a torch. Mulchanor quickly joined him. the building was effectively empty apart for the huge machinery taking the middle of the area.
"all right then, let's look for an entrance" started Gustavius. he soon found a trapdoor in one corner of the room but was too afraid to open it himself

"it may be dangerous... Alast, why don't you open it"

meanwhile outside the mill, lightning also found something interesting on the wall. he ducked to inspect more closely but rammed his head full speed in the edge of an overlooking lpiece of masonry.
"you found something" asked Griselda while lightning was painfully held his bruised in his hands.
"yeah... a stone. a stupid stone. let's head back inside."

Lightning was not the only one in pain, the rest of the groups started yet again to fight serious cramps. Mulchanor was the first to descend into the uncharted depths of the spiral stairs below the mill while Alast reminded him to stay cautious in case the steps could be frozen. once downstairs the group emerged in a dark cave. all started looking for the hidden entrance Alaki mentioned before. unfortunately the group was disorganised again and only having two torches made the search vain more tedious. once again Lightning decided egoistically to simply sit down and wait for the events to unfold around him. much to the annoyance of his fellows. "what about you make us some light, huh ? there must be a reason why you're called Lightning" started Mulchanor. once again silence was his answer while in the background Gustavius clutched his stomach again in deep and rushed for a dark corner. only moments a big sigh was to be heard. it was not exactly a sigh of relief but more the "I-was-expecting-that-one" sigh followed by a less triumphal than expected "i found the secret entrance!" Gustavius quickly tied a rope around the lever to activate the door, took a safe distance and pulled it. with the noise of stone grinding against stone the entrance to a corridor was now revealed. "well, here is it, you errm.. might want to mind your steps".
Avoiding the inopportune Gustavius stomach problems on the floor the company went one by one thought the secret passage, calmly and orderly till Alast couldn't miss the change to pay back Lightning for the disease he believed to suffer due to the magician. Sneaking without thinking he put all his weight toward to push over the stained floor. But Lightning made honour to his name turning abruptly to check on the imaginary sounds the grotto was making. Sadly for Alast an as a poetic justice, he felt over the disgusting soil. None were laughing but all smiled. Alast got a smell of his own naughtiness. All over the chest. He removed what he could with his blanket, saving at least his pride.

Entering now the corridor our heroes found a quiet place along the perfectly aligned bricks on the wall. They were in. A first door called their attention and opening it safely they could see it wasn't trapped. Once inside, Erleothir and Griselda, fearing no more trouble, almost awoke two sleeping barbarians. Going out in a rush discussion aroused and Gustavius almost awoke them shouting when he should have remembered they were still undercover. Killing or not killing them was the question to take. Once again the Knight defended an honourable solution. Griselda and Eleothir got in, choosing a known danger instead of the possibility of a worse encounter in the corridor.

The barbarians had awoke and were now in a difficult position, Quickly Erleothir shown signs of peace and managed to call them. When they entered all, it was at the end of one of the Barbarians offering them shelter even under suspicion from both sides of a trap. Mulchanor wasn't really complying, but the idea of staying outside, alone with the the rest of the barbarian army, finally broke his dwarven stubbornness. Words were now taking over the mutual doubts but it was Aliki's pendant which made them understand they could have found new allies.

The more they talked the more the suspicion of a misdeed by the Darklord was over the realm of possibilities. After a few moments of mind storming, with the help of the Barbarians, they managed to be aware of the true menace: a Nadziranim had taken the form of the Brumalmarc and was now the leader of the Ice Barbarians. That was the reason Aliki was sent away to die. Our Heroes won't probably ever imagine that the zombie giaks they crossed were part of the Nadziranim to kill him. But Ikaya is not a normal fortress, it defends its inhabitants, even away from its walls.

What could be possibly done now? They mission was to free Dark Raven and kilithanin,but, even succeeding, the Nadziranim woul try to get them with the help of an 5000 men army stong. While their new friends were liberating the Kai Lord and the merchant, our heroes decided that only a frontal attack would provide them victory, freedom and a longer life. At the same moment the Kai Lord entered and thanked them for the half rescue. He offered his eternal gratitude and promess to reward them properly at the next Fehmarn at the Monastery. But till then, they had an enemy to defeat.

The barbarians won't try to attack their leader, even knowing it was an impostor, Kilithanin was a merchant, only able to wield words and numbers, whom won't be very useful against such a powerful agent of the Dark Lords. The plan was simple; the barbarians will lead them to the hideout of the false Leader, and then they would strike him. Kilithanin will stay behind with Dark Raven while they'll defeat the hideous monster. In the cold corridor this strange company walked carefully avoiding ,others, till the stairs nearby. Once half way in the stairs the barbarian turned back to them:
- This is it. Now there is no return for all of us. We trust each others and we may stand a chance against him. We'll get you to one of his safe places. Then, it will be your chance to finish him. Or all our nation will go on open war with Ljuk. May the gods lead your weapons my friends!

Bonus Xp for this talkative session
Erleothir: 85 xp for the leading without a fight where it should have been kill and loot, 500 Xp for avoiding an onslaught in Ikaya, 50 xp for wanting to be between the mill and Ikaya, 600 xp for finding Dark Raven and Kilithanin, 400 xp for the figurine painted, 50 xp for role play in french/southern Language,

Gustavius: 80 xp for being in game most of the time, 150 xp for finding the door, 100 xp for avoiding the killing, 600 xp for finding Dark Raven and Kilithanin, 50 xp for remembering Alaki's amulet, 500 xp for the figurine painted and finding where the others could paint it for 2 euros,

Lightning: 1 xp for being played by Griselda, 100 xp for avoiding the killing, 600 xp for finding Dark Raven and Kilithanin, 500 xp for having the first painted figurine,

Griselda: 55xp for playing Lightning, 55 xp for confusing the GM playing both character without notice, 25 xp for getting away with it, 20 xp for the L sign over her head for Los.. Lightning, 100 xp for avoiding the killing, 600 xp for finding Dark Raven and Kilithanin, 500 xp for the first self made figurine,

Alast: 70 xp for being a good pirate, 50xp for the idea of covering everybody's crap, 50 xp for warning Mulchanor about some danger which I can't recall (bloody hand writing - thanks to Mulchanor I know now it was for the watch out the frozen stairs you may fall call), 100 xp for avoiding the killing, 600 xp for finding Dark Raven and Kilithanin, 400 xp for the figurine painted,

Mulchanor: 70xp for dwarving around, 100 xp for avoiding the killing, 600 xp for finding Dark Raven and Kilithanin, 400 xp for the figurine painted, 25 xp for remembering me of what I couldn't read on my notes about Alast Xp,

June the second 2010 RPG Session Gaming award goes to...

2010-06-05T11:17:00.002+02:00

Erleothir!
Once again the Knight saved the day by avoiding spilling blood unnecessarily and saving Dark Raven without any killing...

RPG Session Gaming award goes to...

2010-05-23T12:04:00.003+02:00

Lightning!
After an amazing and useful magical session he takes credits for his efforts to save the day several times !

Congratulations!

The path to Ikaya

2010-05-22T10:49:00.026+02:00

* In the picture: Mulchanor role playing Griselda as Griselda herself was role playing Lightning, missing in this session

13th October 5000, somewhere over the Vlad Glacier in Kalte

Going on. They knew they needed to go further and quicker to recover the time lost in the blizzard. the days and nights passed without any event. the company had asked their guides to make stops every 3 hours in order for themselves to have a brief moment of quiet when the sickness attacks were about to happen.

A short discussion lifted a part of the mystery around the guides, while both siblings were indeed Vassagonians, they were in exile in these countries. their family had fled from the clutches of the Zakhan to Kalte only to be almost immediately slaughtered by the ice-barbarians. in these lands death could come very swiftly and surprising as the third day showed.

the three sleds were progressing pretty fast even through the foggy weather when, out of the nowhere, two ice-barbarians appeared in the path of the sleds. unlike the company both of them had a clear idea about what would happen. while some members of the group were about to claim that they meant no harm, some arrows were already whistling towards them. Alast and Gustavius cursed as the projectiles grazed them and the complete group immediately riposted with iron and blood. the combat was swift, Lightning had managed to incapacitate one of the barbarians thus allowing Griselda a deadly strike, the second barbarian was defending himself as best as he could but was overwhelmed easily. as the group looted the bodies they discovered a macabre fund. during the combat they kept wondering how the barbarians were able to fight with spear and sword while still letting arrows rain upon them.. the answer was simple: each barbarian had a child in its backpack, armed with a bow and trained to kill whatever did not belong in those iced wastes. the bodies were quickly looted, most of the equipment was broken and useless except for a finely crafted spear, which quickly became the new property of Griselda and 2 pairs if skis.

the group decided it would be best to press on, as a searching party would probably be soon sent after those two scouts...

but their hope for a refreshing and reposing night would soon be shattered. Gustavius, Griselda and Mulchanor were taking their second watch when it became apparent that they were not alone in the area. out of the darkness a slow moving figure came moving towards the sleds and camp-fires. it was too far to clearly distinguish what it was but it seemed to be a giak. strangely enough it did not seemed to move aggressively or be rushing in frenzy into a battle. it seemed to be wounded and was clearly moaning. while Mulchanor and Gustavius were trying to figure out what the creature was and why it was moaning so strangely, Griselda quickly woke the guides up and pressed them to ready the sleds for a quick escape. three other figures appeared, following the first. limping and moaning. "who goes there ?" asked Mulchanor and gave a warning shot. As no response came, Gustavius decided to put some light into the situation and grabbed a burning piece of wood from one of the camp-fires and threw it spinning it towards the figure. Griselda was now back and urging the dwarves to get on the - now almost ready to go - sleds as 4 other of those creatures appeared, limping... the torch landed right in front of the first creature, illuminating it brightly. It was indeed a giak, but decaying and decomposing. "Zombies !!" yelled the dwarves while rushing to the sleds. "lots o'them !" - "oh, so you finally decided it's best to go" ironically stated Girselda while whipping the dogs to make them start quickly. in the commotion one of the undeads had managed to grab the first sled, while the others - a complete army as it seemed to the company - were still moving at full-zombie speed towards the now departing sleds. a gaunt hand was trying to grasp its hold on the first sled but Gustavius quickly dispatched it with a swift strike of his axe, letting out a disgusted sound.

with relief the group watched the figurines disappearing in their trails and decided to press on. questions were forming in their heads. Giaks in Kalte are uncommon. not to say rare. but undead giaks are far more disturbing. clearly there was some evil force at work thy could not apprehend yet.

but the clear sun and white blue landscape dissipated their thoughts while they were rushing continuously northwards through bizarre ice formations, the sun light was reflecting and shining through the glacier and once again they were glad to have correct equipment all along. without the goggles they would probably have gone blind form the reflections and without their warm equipment covering their skin they evaded any risk of sun burn. it was almost warm. too warm for the area even. the foreboding signs of water dropping down ice formations would have been a clear sign of impending doom for them. if they had paid attention to it. but the landscape was whizzing to fast around them. it was only a thunk but clearly cracking noise that alerted them. too late, a fissure opened in the glacier just on the left of them. Another big crack and ice debris as well as clouds of ice particles were erupting into the air just to dissipate only moments later. the fissure had now the size of a large crevasse running along the path of the sleds, and it was gaining speed on them. soon the cracking noise would not come to halt and large ice block in front and around the speeding sleds were breaking apart and disappearing into the dark depth of the growing chasm. a frenetic panic had taken control of the dogs as the glacier started breaking apart below them, the sled driver were trying to manoeuvre them as far as they could to move to the right but they had no chance. the ice was breaking way faster than they could run. "do something!" yelled Erleothir at lightning, knowing - or hoping - that the Dessi Mage would maybe be able to control the forces of nature unleashing around them...

Just in the moment Lightning was assessing the situation around him and going through any possible spells in his minds, a trembler went through all three sleds as two large slabs of ice collided next to them. the scream of Mulchanor was heard as the two dwarves suddenly lost grip and fell off on the shaking ground. Lightning concentrated on his incantation and suddenly, forming out of the clouds of melting ice appeared a water spirit shaking itself vigorously in the cold air. Now both the first and last sleds were driving a tight U shaped turn to the right, while Hassan and Radja were masterfully conducting this manoeuvre Griselda and Erleothir quickly grabbed some ropes to throw at the incoming running dwarves. next to the second sled, still thrown at full speed, the water spirit was receiving mentally his orders from lighting. "hold both pieces of the glacier together" was the oh so simple task. quickly evading the stomping feet of the slowly freezing water spirit, the two dwarves respectively threw themselves on the dancing ropes, while Mulchanor jumped, head first, toward the rope, Gustavius felt on his back, no sooner had he caught the rope that he was dragged over a small bump of snow and got catapulted in the air, only to land with the artistic grace of a sack of flour seated on the back of the first sled. Mulchanor on his side was holding tight and in an impressive movement managed to stand up, ice-skiing behind the last sled... without skis. "hey look at me !" he yelled proudly. sadly Erleothir misunderstood this for a cry of help and quickly pulled the rope towards the sled "I will save you my friend!" as a result Mulchanor face planted in the snow and got dragged for a few meters unceremoniously. In the mean time the water spirit was performing a split over the chasm, the shaking and trembling of the glacier went lower and lower and finally stopped. Our heroes had a last look on the back to the now frozen water spirit. holding both pieces of the glacier together like the statue of an ice colossus.

Great was their joy on this evening, recalling the events like school kids who just played an enormous prank and managed to run away from their master in extremis before getting caught. As they looked around them on the desert landscape a few members of the group noticed a large mountain in front of them. "This is Cloudmaker Mountain" explained one of the guides "but don't trust your eyes, the mountain isn't in front of us" - "what do you mean?" - "in these countries you have to learn not to entirely trust your eyes. they can show you wrong things. you have to *know* your environment...." these word from the guides slightly irritated Griselda. She waited for a quiet moment to turn to Erleothir. "do you think we can trust our guides?" she asked him without emphasis. "why ? yes... I mean until now everything went" he stopped recalling the events of the last days and searched for a fitting word "eeerrmm fine... I mean, it could have gone worse" - "no, i mean, what they just say about not trusting our eyes and the mountain, it's disturbing me. do you really think we can rely on them ?" - "I understand your doubts but honestly, these are the only guides we have and... " he got interrupted by Gustavius who was overhearing the conversation "they have spent basically their complete life in the hanor interrupted him "and besides, if they wanted to kill us or get us lost they could have done it already on the first day and just a few kilometres from Ljuk..." - "point taken. in fact, it's not like we have any choice."

On that night everyone slept pretty good and there was no interruption, they were just fairly impressed as pale lights appeared in the sky, seamlessly moving from reddish to green and moving between the stars like a snake ondulating in the water. "is this magic?!" - "no it's called... let me remember.." - "aurora Borealis, never thought I'd live long enough to see some" - "and let's hope long enough to tell about it"

as their trek started on the next morning they could notice that the cloud maker mountain was in fact behind them and it did not lasted too long until they left the glacier to reach a more accidented area. the ground wasn't now even and plane any more but formations of black rock could be seen here and there scattered around and rolling hills were marking the landscape. the colour was the only constant though. white , white and more white. Erleothir scouted the landscape with a keen eye trying to figure out what the best path for the sleds would be. "we need to be careful sahib, said Radja, you see those caverns far away in the mountains to the east and west ? these are home to some worms, big ones, ever hungry and looking for prey..." a discussion quickly erupted "we should go on rocky ground then and follow the top of the hills" - "we would be sitting duck then, everyone could see us" - "but then again we would be able to see our surroundings" - "going between the hills would hide us from enemy eyes" - "and we would be blind as well, and easier to catch for the worms" finally all opted to go the route on top of the hills. the complete day passed by without bigger incident. around late afternoon the mount Range was clearly recognisable in front of them and Ikaya suddenly did not seemed far at all any more. it was only at nightfall that a new discussion started. the guides warned them that they were now in great danger, Ikaya wasn't far away and lots of barbarian tribes were settling in the surrounding area, surely a fire would attract the attention of unwelcomed guests. nobody in the group was really hot on spending a night without fire and several ideas were proposed. after dismissing the igloo as too time consuming all decided to build up the tents on the sleds themselves and huggle together with each others and the dogs. But Alast remembered the baknar oil vial. now would be the perfect moment to use its cold blocking effects. he was about to open the vial when Hassan hastily stopped him movement. "don't open it. in any circumstances. this is baknar oil, worms, eat baknars..... in simple words: the smell of the baknar oil would attract the worms. they could swallow our encampment in a few gulps."

Luckily for them the night wasn't as cold as expected and all could start the next morning. they were gaining distance to Ikaya and everything was running smooth. no enemies in sight, the air was clear and crisp. Hassan turned back an announced proudly "we should arrive in Ikaya by tonight and then..." he would not be able to finish his sentence as words got stuck in his hals. missing the first sled by a few meters, a gigantic mouth full of teeth and fangs just swallowed all the dogs from the second sled as a huge worm errupted perpendicularly out of the ground. Alast had no time to react and the vehicle crashed against the partially discovered body of the upright standing worm. in a rain of snow, wooden debris, ropes and teared packages he got thrown far away to the right side. Lightning had bigger chance and the impact just made him roll to the left. Surprised horror over their face, they watched as the beast plunged towards Alast. Again Hassan showed his great conducting skills and quickly turned the dogs to the right, Erleothir, on the last sled quickly ordered to rush to Lighting at the right, in their attempt to catch him they almost drove him over, but more scared than harmed he managed to jump on the bypassing sled. Alast on his side was still alone facing the giant beast, his shadaki senses warned him accurately and he quickly jumped to the side as the beast reached for him . A gun shot cracked, it was Gustavius' rifle, but throwing pebbles would had the same results. As Alast was preparing himself for a second attack of the beast, his life almost defiled in front of his eyes, backwards. the events of the last evening. "baknar oil attract worms" was echoing through his mind. as the saliva dripping teeth were hovering dangerously 2 meters over him he grabbed for one of his fials of baknar oil. time seemed to suddenly slow down and the yelling of his friends suddenly grown silent. the bright sunlight shun through the yellowish fluid as he tossed the bottle as far away from him and the sleds as he could while making a daring escape toward his friends. the bottle shattered on hitting the ground. the sickly odour filled the air. and while the worm was still analysing this sudden appearance of baknar and rushing towards the source, our pirate was safely aboard one of the sleds driving away at full speed...

their adrenaline level slowly sinking they assessed the damage, things could have been much worse, but they could also be better, while everyone was safe, they had lost three dogs and one sled complete with provisions. now driving side by side Gustavius was starting to point out a weakness in their plan. "So Erleorhir, tell me, what do we do once we arrive in Ikaya in a few hours. do we just knock at the main gate..." - "and say 'hello we're the peace envoys from Sommerlund'" added Mulchanor - "'and we just happened to kill two of your scouts and their kids on the way here...'" finished Alast. Griselda rolled her eyes at the childish behavior of the group while Erleothir frowned. after a brief pause he shook his head and started "well, since..." - "sahib, there's someone on the road."

They stopped hastily the two last sleds preparing themselves for another battle but the man in from of them looked more like a rag. uncertain about what to do they started to conference about attacking or not while Griselda was already taking her spear in an attacking movement. The man felt in the snow. Only the wind could be heard between the two hundreds meters separating them. Slashing the dogs Hassan and Radja covered the last meters separating them till they reached him. Instinctively our heroes took defensive positions around him, Mulchanor took one of the laumpsur potion to cure the barbarian. He was hurt but alive due to them. Slowly he recovered senses and started to talk.
- Thanks... Thanks you stranger... I am Aliki counselor to the brumalmarc... or should i say ex-counselor.
- what do you mean with ex counselor, what happened to you ?
the wounded man continued,
- i've been sent away by the guards, they hunted me down and i had to flee out of the city. the brumalmarc, my old friend, isn't himself anymore. friends are turning enemies and this since the recent arrival of that new ... emissary.
- emissary ? you have seen the kai-lord ?
- Kai-lord,... the old man frowned. yes indeed but he is not the emissary. he was *with* the emissary, him and and some merchant. At first everything seemed as usual negociations, I was uncertain about one of their foreign emissaries and I talked about him to the brumalmarc before he had a private meeting with them alone. When the meeting ended the brumalmarc came back alone and told us to put them in the dungeons. I tried to interfere as this is not the way to treat emissaries... but he would listen. We came in, me and some soldiers, to find the suspecious emissary dead, Kilitanin and Dark raven unconscious. The two guards and the two other emissaries also dead. After my constant questioning about what happened and the craziness of getting our allies in prison he banished me. Some of us are against his will, but as a brumalmarc, we'll all follow him. Except now.
I won't attack him, nor our man... but I have to flee...
- Will you attack him with us? Said Mulchanor
-Never! I will never attack him. We, ice people, are barbarians for you. But we are people of peace. We just follow orders. Of o mad man. Some thing happened to him maybe you can find out...
-Yes! But how will we enter? Can we attack them said Griselda?
Alki looked at her smiling, and replied:
- Ikaya is a magical fortress with more than five thousands soldiers ready to die serving the Brumalmarc. I would use other ways if I were you...
After this, our heroes were listening to him attentively. Even without his company in this mission. But he provided them an important piece of information.
- On the right side of Ikaya there is a mill. behind it you'll find a grotto with a secret entrance to the fortress. And take this as a gift and luck-bringer. he added and pulled out an amulet out of his clothes. this should help you on your quest. Barbarians will recognize this symbol. All the company took the sleds to the fortress. After this they all silently covered the last kilometers to the fortress. Night felt upon them, behind the hill, hidden from Ikaya's eyes they waited for someone to uncover its secrets...