s HT Alias/Player Character Name Type Status/Notes Sex -- ----------------------------------------------------------------- R1 John Haight...........Arawn.............Druid .Normal/Alfar Ma ?? Chris Wells...........Ben'dar...........Warrior.Normal/Human Ma ?? Tom Corckett..........Caladan...........Wizard Normal/Human Ma W2 Marcel Liberty........Chion.............Sailor..Normal/Human Ma -- Tobie Bonahoom........Fremea............Sidh....NormalFaerry Fe -- J H Hooten............Raban.............Bard....Normal/Human..Ma W4 Wout Broere...........Unali.............Ninja...Normal/Human Fe R4 Alex Koponen..........Z'leyra...........Healer..Normal/Human Fe Animals: Corona [Eagle] Z'leyra, Boyzdar [Wolf] (Strie'bog), Game Web Site - http://www.funport.com/longshot/pbem Public posts/actions to pnpgm@abroere.xs4all.nl (mailing list) Private emails (not public actions) to longshot@darktech.org Game Update #35 in sequence (file #127) ---------------------------------------------------------------- Admin notes: None. ----------------------------------------------------------------- [Recap] From Chion: [Re: Actions] Chion will catch up on Caladan's recovery with Cetric, and ensure that he thinks it is ok for him to come (otherwise he can come, just have to watch him... don't want to have to resurrect him again). He will smile kindly at all the folks of the village who, despite saving them, then living here, he really doesn't know well. He will be very mindful of the time and make sure they depart on time with a kindly, "Well, my fr iends, we must be travelling on before we get blocked. Horseback is no way to travel through the Dark Lands." (He knows this will strike some as odd since they are bringing the horses). Smiling he will head toward the circle (since its consecrated). On departing he will tell Cetric "Good spring, and I hope your village grows as large as you are wise, Teacher." After that he will straighten his outfit, re-apply his perfume, and teleport the party to the Dark Lands. GM: Ack. --------------------------- From Raban: [Re: Actions] < I seem to recall reading of Ben'Dar and language before my post, so if he asked it was before me. yup in reply to #32 file #103 on 3/21> Raban(to Chion) "All the magical methods of travel I have used are wierd at first, but they are all useful. This method is quite fast but you miss everything in between, so I do not think it is one I would use often." Raban(to Z'leyra) "What sort of fight was it? Without weapons, I should be able to defeat A'gort without hurting him seriously if we are required to fight. It could even be fun as a display match of strength and skill." [Raban tries to avoid causing problems but may have trouble not flirting if the situation warrants it] GM: Ack. Thanks on the reminder on Ben'dar. I was rushed and thought since you were talking about it in the last update and then she gave it to ben'dar it confused me for a bit. :) --------------------------- From Fremea: [Re: Actions] Fremea stays with the kids as long she can, before they get called to come eat. While she watches, she decides to see if she can pick up the game quickly and joins in, forgetting for a brief moment a lot of her pain and her quest, getting lost in the fun. Even forgetting about the party until it is time to go. She looks at her dress and realizes how dirty and dusty is has become. Since she does not have time to clean it and doesn't want to dig in her stuff to change, she decides to use a spell of hers. GM: Ack. --------------------------- From Ben'dar: [Re: Actions] Ben'Dar replies to Cetric, "No matter. You did no wrong. Thank you for the news. Perhaps one day soon I will return to my home." Ben'Dar doesn't have any other specific actions - he just chills and enjoys the company of the People. He seems uncomfortable wearing the magic necklace, but he complies with Z'leyra's instructions. He has learned to trust her, even if he doesn't fully trust magic such as that. GM: Ack. --------------------------- From Z'leyra: [Re: Actions] I think that the order of requests for learning Katai magically was Ben'dar; Fremea; Raban. If I am wrong I apologize. In any case Z'leyra will briefly loan it out once per day, showing how it is to be used and assisting with a Purification spell and speaking Katai...results are NOT guaranteed. But those it doesn't work for will get another chance when their turn comes round again. If others express interest she will include them in the rotation. Eventually we may use it for learning other languages. There are still a number of languages Z'leyra hopes to learn. GM: Ack. ----------------------------------------------------------------- [New Stuff] [Marqi 29, 1633TH. 1st Day of Adventure #4. Location: Sivas City, Marentia [Time: 4:49pm] [Back in Sivas before the party teleports Ben'dar and Z'leyra step aside away from the party. Z'leyra hands over her new necklace to Ben'dar. She explains how to use it and he invokes the magic by stating the word "Understand". The spell seems to go off. Z'leyra speaks a few words of Katai but Ben'dar frowns not understanding any of it. Z'leyra sighs figuring the spell failed or he wasn't strong enough to accept the magic. She explains maybe he can try again soon another day. She takes the necklace back and stores it for Fremea the next day.] GM: Spell worked but didn't make the Will/Empathy rolls :< ------------------- [Marqi 29, 1633TH. 1st Day of Adventure #4. Location: Ga'Fel Tribal Capital Village, Zen'da Plains, 800 miles north of Sivas City, home to Caladan. [Time: 5:02pm] [After the party teleports in Chion checks the party over for problems. The first time the party came this way so many months ago by teleport it caused the party slight confusion and disorientation. When some of the party jumped back down to the L'p'nth/Marentian border mountains to Woundenal's valley the party actually lost breath. Most suspected it was from the sheer long distance (800 plus mile) jump at once. The human body may not be designed for such jumps or whatever the spell does. Of course now there is no loss of breath. It could be that as Chion improves the spell experience he gains knowledge on how to control its ill effects. Raban hears Chion and feels no bad effects from the spell. Just the disorientation for a split second as scenery, sky and sun position change in a blink of an eye. Otherwise no sickness or other side effect occurs for Raban. In fact his mind seems to wonder to a past event in years gone by in the hills and a cliffside...] Raban: "All the magical methods of travel I have used are weird at first, but they are all useful. This method is quite fast but you miss everything in between, so I do not think it is one I would use often." [Chion nods and smiles. Fast, heck he doubts any else in the middle world can travel the distance he can. Of course he and the party had to come this very route on horseback and that took 2 months. Why ride for 2 months when it can be done in 2 seconds?] [Cetric quietly talks to Ben'dar about his cousin's arrival. and spreading news of Ben'dar.] Ben'dar: "No matter. You did no wrong. Thank you for the news. Perhaps one day soon I will return to my home." Cetric: "Is there further news or instructions I should give if any of your clan cross the river border?" ------------------- [Time: 5:05pm] [Inside the Zen'da tribal village Caladan dashes from tipi to tipi gathering final supplies. As he does Chion stands with Cetric in a private part of the village between tipis. No one in the village except Cetric, Gib'borah, Shaman Luan Swifthand and the party present at the time knew Caladan even died at the hands of the Bova. Chion still feels slightly responsible for the death. Even though Caladan had been mortally wounded by one of the enemy shamans it was Chion's spell that causes the earth to move and make Caladan roll and stumble possibly progressing his death. The party accepted the death as a accident in the chaos of battle. Even Caladan later accepted it as such since in the fog of battle it wasn't foreseen in Chion's plans to harm anyone on his side. But deep down Chion still feels a bit responsible. It was just pure luck that Cetric is one of the few rare folks who know the resurrection spell. Probably the only one in the entire Zen'da nation that knows the spells. Priests in civilized areas might specialize in the spell but shamans tend not to. It was a risky plan to bring Caladan's body back into the village without the villagers knowing. Caldan shouldn't look "diminished" to the village folks as he is heir to the chief position. Of course Caladan and his father Gib'borah had their differences. This is why Caladan left the tribe and settles in Marentia. Over the winter though it seems both men have gotten over their differences and settled them. Ironically it takes death to end the long lasting argument of when he might rule. Of course in the process Durge has been ever present and resentful of Caladan's return to the plains for his own personal ambitions. Chion asks Cetric about Caladan's recovery in the last few months over the winter time. Its no secret after resurrection a body is not the same as it was previously.] Cetric: "He has been building up body mass and strength as you may have noticed. That is always important after the spirits save the body. He has spent time out on the plains working on his spirit work." [Chion nods knowing that the shaman doesn't use terms like magic but believes strongly in the divine will of various spirits including Cetric's own tonah animal the wolf. Words like spell and magic is just not used by most barbarian cultures.] "I do not know which of his abilities are better but I know they are. He is not as fast with his reflexes as he once was when he was younger. So that loss may be forever. Otherwise I see no point him not going with you." [Cetric turns to Chion and looks him in the eye] "However, if he gets sick have Z'leyra watch him. I've noticed that when one is saved by the spirits sickness can hit them hard for the first few months. Signs like coughs, nose bleeds and such are a quick warning sign." [He turns back to the village and smiles at passing villagers.] "Caladan has been restless since you left here a few weeks ago. Gib'boarah and him talked many nights and seem to have resolved things. Caladan was going to leave today or tomorrow so your visit here is a nice omen." [Cetric notices a old lady drop a basket of herbs and rushes over to help her pick them up before they blow away into the nearby fire. Collecting them took long enough to lose in a quick campfire. As Cetric trots away Chion smiles at those who he has meet and notices some he hasn't. Either visitors or new folks living here. Even though Chion has spent the winter months living here he hasn't really mingled as much as he could have. Learning from Cetric took the bulk of the days and constant practice and more practice took some of the nights. By night it was exhaustion from field work that made chatting hard due to need for sleep. For over 3 months Chion did make friends here and even some slight romantic flirtations with a couple of the younger women here but nothing too serious as Chion knew he would not be here that long. Chion just feels out of place in a strange land like this. Being a city person this simple life can be frustrating and boring. Chion was always eager to return home to the city and even eventually to the Dark Lands. Chion taps his shamanic focus, his bones for his own shamanic power. While he may never be as strong in any single shamanic spell as Z'leyra or Cetric he is still learning. He notices Corona flying overhead and wonders if his own Tonah species that selected him is nearby....] [Raban a bit awkward in the village watches the leather clad people of all ages. He notices clan and families are all working as one. He doesn't see that much in the city as most are self oriented with egos of their own. Who says civilized society is better? Then Raban notices A'gort the tall tree like man standing taller than himself across the village some 50 feet away. Both men eye each other as A'gort studies Raban and wonders if this man will try to usurp his position as likely the strongest in the village. Z'leyra explains that man was the one who fought Farseeker in unarmed combat. Farseeker won but almost died in the process as Farseeker is more skilled in weapon use than his own fists. Raban leans to Z'leyra and asks her about the battle.] Raban: "What sort of fight was it? Without weapons, I should be able to defeat A'gort without hurting him seriously if we are required to fight. It could even be fun as a display match of strength and skill." [Z'leyra quickly explains the battle more of a Zen'da wrestling match with slight grappling and fist fight action. Raban quickly figures out if he could go up against the tall man but then the women seem to flock to the handsome Bard and giggle. They ask Raban questions but Raban has no clue what they are saying but a man of his experience knows what they are asking. A true man is aware of the language of love. Raban is confident and used to it. But Z'leyra steps away as the women seem to ignore her. Raban finds the women quite attractive as well since most are dressed in tight tan or brown leathers but some are barely dressed even in this cool weather. If only he had time to really use his skills and education to the fullest...] [Fremea pays little attention to the adults of the village as they go about their business. As soon as the kids slowly come over and play their stick game she smiles and studies the game. The kids ranging in age from likely 3 to 13 run around in chaotic circles using a simple single foot long stick that is very thin. It seems its both a game of reflex and accuracy. As one kid balances the stick on his palm and runs with it not dropping it he tries to reach another kid then grip the stick and tap the other kid in only certain spots like the upper arm or leg but no where else. A game of dexterity and accuracy likely training the kids in some future combat even though girls are playing the game as well. She notices if the stick is dropped that kid loses and must quit until one remains. When one game ends she decides to give it a shot. The kids at first seem hesitant not knowing each other's language. But Caladan assures them she means no harm, he hopes. Fremea is able to carry the stick for almost 4 minutes and tag 3 other kids. But after that it drops and she must stand to the side. An interesting game but sadly not a simple kid's game but one trained likely to kill. She sighs even as kids they learn life is hard. Ever since her own betrayal and pain of past kid encounters she knows kids seem to help her continue and not give up hope.] [As Fremea stands to the side watching the last 2 boys and 1 girl play she finds her dress dirty and dusty. She decides to use a transmutation spell to "clean" and make it more sturdy for the time being here. She casts a quick spell and changes the dress. The kids so happy and distracted don't even notice. She wonders how they would react to her showing her wings. But best not to scare them.] [Arawn finds the study in culture interesting. His third culture since arriving on this strange land called the Middle World. As an experiment he keeps his face wrap on but no one seems to stare or notice. The Vassa knew him as Elf already and in Marentia virtually every citizen noticed it. But here no one seems to care. Maybe being nomads these folks are used to the dust and wind and use their own form of face wrap? Of course he knows in the Dark Lands it might be dangerous to avoid eye and face contact. Wizards are those who study human nature. It is difficult to do so without seeing the full face. That could lead to problems and risks. Arawn makes mental notes of the Zen'da people. All seem normal folks and hard workers like Ben'dar. He doesn't see what Ben'dar talks about their horse and combat prowess but he trusts Ben'dar's opinion on this matter. Up in his own homeland Arawn has heard of folks like these who depend on the winds and spirits they don't even see. He has even heard that some gods use a form of arcane communication through smoke filled or drug induced visions. He wonders if these people use such arcane forms of communications. As Arawn stands to the side he wonders why no one seems to notice him. Surely they don't get many guests but they seem used to outsiders. He wonders if the party's previous visits here have tainted their world view...] [Ben'dar stands to the side at first as he recovers from his talk with Cetric about his cousin. His emotions are torn apart as he feels a need to stay here, return to his ranch, return to his own family west of here and yet go with Chion on a new adventure. Regret and indecision can be the worst things for a warrior. He tries to put them away and forces a smile to his face and joins 3 warriors near the fire. He remembers the three and tries to catch up on past events. The warriors notice a slight smell of beer on Ben'dar's breath and tease him about drinking so early. But come just a couple hours from now these same warriors will likely be drinking. The warriors bring up a quick summary of the last few winter months. The Bova tribes have seemed to move slightly away from the Ga'fel borders for fear of revenge while few dare cross the border now. Relations with the Ser'manda seem tighter while word is that the far western edge tribes are in a uproar about some horse thieves from the forest on that end of the plains...] [Unali stands to the side with arms folded in her normal wait and see stance. She sighs and watches the village. Little seems to have changed in the status of women. They still seem to do all the work, gather the food and do all the village chores while the men stand around and do nothing and talk. News of her friend Mullah might change that but she knows it could take years if ever. She watches Arawn watch the village. Standing with his face wrap on. She wonders if Arawn is some assassin always wanting to hide his face from public view. Even Unali has been known to wear a wrap at night in her black clothing for combat purposes. Its a natural thing for skilled fighters in stealth. But she knows in Katai no one wears wraps not even females. Arawn will have a difficult time getting away with it if they travel to Katai proper. Not even female nobles wear such things. Some long lost Emperor decree doesn't allow it as a general rule. Fear of assassins and traitors comes with those who wish to hide their face...] [Z'leyra tries to figure out what went wrong with Ben'dar using the necklace but finds no flaw in her design of the necklace or the spells. She becomes distracted when she watches Fremea in the distance playing with the kids. For the first time in months she sees Fremea laugh and smile. All the time in her manor she hasn't ever seen her smile this much. Z'leyra likes how she takes to kids. It reminds her of Xian's closeness to kids with his work at the local orphanage near his home. Z'leyra can't figure out though how a hard nosed beaten down Faerry who should hate all humans for her treatment can mellow out from a simple kid's game...] ------------------- [Time: 5:18pm] [Cetric gathers the party toward the center of the village and offers hot warm bread, tea, ale and fruit. He knows the party is in a hurry so a big feast is not in order. Though the village is preparing for the night's dinner. As the party eats or drinks or has nothing Caladan comes and brings the party up to date.] Caladan: "After we stopped the Bova it seems they decided without their L'p'nth backers from that Ezam guy their plans of conquest of the plains was over. Their morale broken we spent the winter ensuring all those strange mind controlling blue bugs were either destroyed or reburied well below ground. Because of the attacks and our battle with the Bova relations with the Ser'manda have seemed to improve even though we attacked one of their patrol groups controlled by the blue bugs in a wild mind fever. I am glad you guys have come I was worried about my forest home near Maren. So we are heading to Chion's home to the far north east area? Sounds like fun and dangerous. A normal day's work it seems for us..." [As the party talks and mingles the wind dies down and the female end their chores for night's dinner. Durge refuses to eat the snacks with the party and stays in his tipi sulking. Caladan asks questions about folks not in the party like Xian, Farseeker, Trembyl and Kasha. Soon time flies by quickly...] ------------------- [Time: 5:28pm] [Chion knows that the party may only have half an hour left before the teleport block goes up or worse another party comes in using the teleport pad when the party does. This is why they organize hour periods open for certain groups or individuals to come in. Of course coming in early shows eagerness something that the High Elder might see as pure ambition. While coming late might show rudeness. So Chion believes this time is good enough to show a level of neutral state to the exalted High Elder. Chion claps his hands and tries to gather the party together.] Chion: "Well, my friends, we must be travelling on before we get blocked. Horseback is no way to travel through the Dark Lands." [Chion smiles wondering if his highest spell casting could likely break the teleport block. A worthy challenge but a dangerous one as death or diversion to the teleport might not be worth the risk just to test the theory but not worth the risk to the others.] [Cetric and some of the village follow the party back to the Teleport circle. Chion speaks to Cetric.] Chion: "Good spring, and I hope your village grows as large as you are wise, Teacher." Cetric: "Good journey to you." [Caladan trots up with his horse in tow. Chion forgets Caladan has his own horse. But then Caladan notices the party has no horses as well.] Caladan: "No horses?" [Chion explains they have been transmuted. Chion pulls out the Wand of Change and transmutates Caladan's horse at the amazement of the villagers. Cetric just watches but says nothing. He figures it to be a shape change which he himself can easily do rather than a transmutation. Caladan picks up the "rock" of his horse and joins the party behind Chion. Standing next to Fremea, Caladan's firesnake slithers around Caladan's shoulders and hisses a bit at Fremea. The Firesnake makes no move against her but she steps a foot away to make sure. ] Caladan: "He is harmless. His bite is worse than his hiss. Just don't grab his tail without him seeing it." [Fremea stares at the pink red firesnake and wonders of all things why did he have a pet of a snake...] [Chion nods to the party to see if they are ready. He then straightens his clothing and suggests the party do the same as next stop will be the Dark Lands 1,200 odd miles away from here. Chion then casts the final teleport of the day he hopes. In a blue haze the party disappears.] ------------------- [Time: 5:32pm] [The party sees the blue haze fade and instead of light from the overhead sun they emerge into darkness. After a second the eyes adjust to reveal a room and not the outside. The party looks around to get their bearings while Chion in point position looks onward to two figures standing a good 20 feet away. Both are dressed in golden military style uniforms with a blue patch above the heart with symbols at this distance unreadable. Both are holding tall poleaxes and looks to be wearing chainmail and a dagger at each hip. Both are shorter around 5 foot 5 and 5 foot 7. The taller man nods and then turns around. He reaches up to a lever on the wall and pulls it down. Static seems to be heard as if crackle from lightning. Ben'dar, Unali, Raban, Z'leyra flinch by sheer reflex hoping this isn't some form of trap. Chion remains confident as he figures the device to be the Teleport Block going up so no one can teleport into their bodies. The man turns and nods again at Chion and then flashes a hand he says in Katai "Wait." He then rushes up down a small hallway that goes on about 10 feet and turns into another room. As he does the party looks around in their new surroundings. Chion's control of ill effects must be getting better as no one feels sick or dizzy or maybe its this room. Some who look to the back notice flat white walls except for a circular hole about 4 feet up and 3 feet wide. There are runes on the circular object. To the sides are white walls with brown ornate magical symbols and runes of what could be multiple religions or cultures or orientations. The floor is a simple gray stone. The ceiling is a light white flat with nothing on it but it stands 7 feet high. To the front is a painting of a man in gray robes but only Chion knows it to be the High Elder at this point. On the other wall by the standing guard is a painting of what maybe 2 wizards casting magic on each other in a duel or in helping each other. Its hard to tell. Chion doesn't need to turn around to know the circular thing is there. He recalls the first 3 times he has been here. This is his 4th time in this room ever. But rumors abound as to what the purpose of the object is. Some say behind it lies poison gas, fire, monsters, intense magic but it seems the bulk of the rumors is a simple water pipe that can flood this room in seconds to drown any enemy who might teleport in. The first time he and his master Correl was here Chion had asked about the runes and object but Correl didn't even know exact details of them. At that time he, Correl and another wizard teleporting out into the forest on a training exercise with another apprentice. The second and third times it was only Chion and Correl here to train Chion in the magic of teleport to detect the teleport block (which he couldn't till his 3rd visit) and to train in a safe area teleporting back and forth. Chion smiles to himself knowing that the sheer power of this group could likely even survive those rumors of water and even poison gas. Chion smiles knowing that once he was leery teleporting just 3 miles away into the forest and back here alone now he can do 400x that distance with ease. A timid boy becomes a confident master of the spell just like Correl had hoped one day.] [Arawn reads the walls trying to figure out the runes but its awash of so many variations in runic lore that it could take a magical key to figure it out or long study. He does seem to pinpoint some major cosmological runes that tell of costellations and supernatural forces in the sky. Something his own family knew and likely gave to the humans eons ago. But what their meanings and use are is unclear to Arawn.] [Ben'dar looks at the short guards and knows he could take the both drunk and one hand tied. These Katai people must be all short and weak. But then again they must rely on magic for their might. When the guard pulls the lever Ben'dar tenses knowing that it could be a trap. But nothing happens and Chion seems to remain confident. Ben'dar reads the walls but only figures it to be some form of graffiti left by kids. Not even one naked female in the lot, useless waste of "art".] [Though Chion shows confidence to the party and the guards inside his heart begins to pound. Why is he called back here? He left because it became dangerous for him and those he was with. As other apprentices grew in power so did he and that meant challenges. He was sent on a mission to Clima and came back from that only to leave again after the Elder gave him the staff he now holds in his right hand. He wonders how Correll is doing and where he might be, why he isn't here now. Chion shifts from foot to foot waiting for the guard to return as some slight nervous tension grows inside him.] [Fremea looks the room over as well studying the runes. She opens her senses to detect magic and is quickly drenched in awareness. As she does it seems the walls themeelves glow in various colors. The roof seems to glow in a aura of magic and the rear circular thing glows in a aura of red hues. Fremea soon realizes this place could overwhelm her senses if she keeps them open. The room is clearly full of magic and could take some time to figure out and separate each part of it.] [Raban looks around in confusion at the entire site. He wonders why he even signed up for this gig. But something tells him he'll be having some fun soon. He heard the foreign eastern girls all like massages. A slight smile comes to his face as he waits and thinks.] [Unali releases her fingers from her dagger hilts when the guard leaves the room. He didn't show any sign of hostile nature on his face but that lever was pulled awfully fast. She wonders how these Katai "rebels" will react to her being a true Katai. Will they treat her differently from Chion or see her as an oppressor? Hopefully they won't care.] [Z'leyra also studies the runes but detects maybe 1 or 2 runes from thousands. The ones she does may be from a form of Dvalinn. But their meaning is lost to her.] [After a few seconds the guard comes back into the hall and 2 men exit where he was, likely a room. They walk toward the Citadel Reception Room's main room with the guard following behind them. Both men are short around 5'10 and 5'8'. All are black hair and have the eyes of the oriental folks seen at the docks. Their skin vary in shades of gold, tan and browns. One man is carrying something but both are dressed in flowing tan and gold silks of high status. They quickly get to the room and the guard retakes his position at the wall. The other 2 men walk toward Chion and stop about 5 feet from him. The shorter one puts a writing parchment and tablet holder of some kind in his hands so he can write and take notes maybe. The other man is wearing two rings on his hands of bright red and blue gems. He also has a gold chain around his neck ending in a green gem. Both men look well off in money matters.] [The short man flips a paper and reads something from it and looks up. He nods and then whispers to the other man but low enough Chion can't make out. The tall man speaks in Katai.] Man: "I am Zhou Kimet, the Lord's personal secretary and keeper of the Domain Records." [The short man then speaks and amazingly speaks in Marentian. Everyone understands it and he repeats the other man's words and then adds his own.] Man 2: "I am Kee Ortan. I speak Marentian and our records show that is the common language here. I know some of you may understand Katai. I will translate his words in Marentian for complete understanding. I am his personal aide and may be directed to be your guide for the time being." [With a grunt Zhou continues. While he speaks in Katai those like Chion and Unali who understand it perfectly hear it in Katai and later in the Marentian translation.] GM: Will only show Zhou's dialogue as translations for ease of duplication. Zhou: "Chion Blades welcome home! Your return is both a gift and a blessing to the Lord's soul. It is good to see you keep the Gnarish Staff." [He does a curt nod as well as Kee. Zhou then moves over to Chion's right and looks over the person up and down.] [Arawn lowers his face wrap slightly at the sight of the approaching man. He stands tall when both men move over in front of him. Suddenly Zhou pulls out a talisman from deep within his robes and puts it raised in front of him. Arawn tenses and glances to Chion but Chion just remains emotionless.] Kee: "We must perform scans of each person before we allow you to enter the Citadel grounds. This process will be quick and not harmful. These scans are required by protocol. Refusal to do so will require your exit from the Citadel into the village and thus no audience with the High Elder. This is first and foremost a security issue for us as enemies are numerous and second as a information source. Will you comply?" [He says that to Arawn but then looks around the room to see if anyone refuses. Everyone knows the consequences and to risk no audience with the High Elder could risk a bad thing on Chion and all are here to help him. Chion seems confident and may even have been subject to such scans before.] GM: Will assume all agree. If you do not say so and the section below will have to be changed. I could wait and ask now but it would take another update. :) I'm sure the paranoid folks like Z'leyra and Arawn might be concerned I figure you guys know it is needed. Both men move onto each person. You can reply if you wish but will assume they wait for reply before they move onto the next person for purposes of this update. [Zhou raises the talisman and Arawn feels nothing as the multitude of Detection and other spells seem to flow over him. Zhou seems to read various glowing gems all arranged in what looks to be chaotic order on the talisman. He then whispers to Kee to take notes.] Zhou: "You are Elf, an Alfar from the looks of your height. This is quite an honor. We have had no Elves in this area for twenty years. They seem to move on due to conflicts. What is your name and do you have any titles of nobility? What parentage do you come from?" [Arawn frowns slightly even with his ears covered they can seem to detect him to be an Elf. But surely a land full of wizards could come up with a simple detect spell. Now he figures there is little use for a face wrap here as rumors might fly of his presence. Especially with those guards at the wall listening.] [Both men wait for Arawn to reply and then move on to Ben'dar. Zhou scowls slightly during his scan. He whispers to Kee in Katai but Ben'dar doesn't understand. Kee doesn't translate but Chion hears "...magical belt, armor.." among the words.] Zhou: "You are of the Plains possibly? What is your name and do you hold titles in your family." [Kee tries to translate the words with some tact.] "I am afraid you will need to get better clothing for the audience with the Lord. If this is not possible we can arrange something." [Ben'dar wishes to slap the man across the room but he doesn't know Ben'dar has better clothing in his bags.] [Zhou then moves onto Caladan. The Firesnake hisses at the raised Talisman but just sits on Caladan's shoulder.] Caladan: "I am Caladan Sundancer, son of Ga'Fel Ga'sha Gib'borah, wizard of fire and the elements." [He gives a slight bow as best he can with a snake on his shoulders.] [Both men whisper for a few seconds.] Zhou: "Ga'sha is Regis?" Caladan: "Zen'da. Means tribal chief." Zhou: "Sorry. Your firesnake is welcome here. Many of our wizards have had some in the past. But he may have to be held during the Audience and wedding if you attend." Caladan: "Of course." [Both then move to Fremea. Though her wings are covered up and her long hair covers her hair well to the outside world she is a human. Scans done they bow.] Zhou: "Faerry! I've never seen such. Excuse me from staring. Let me see.." [He changes into the Faerry tongue as best he can.] "Welcome to the Dark Lair Fae." [Fremea smiles at the word lair mistranslated, clearly Zhou doesn't know her language so well. He then goes back into Katai to be translated by Kee.] "We have not seen one of your kind in over 200 years here if I recall. This is quite an honor. We could..." [he whispers to Kee a second and both nod. He turns back to Fremea.] "Use your talents later on if your willing." [Fremea has no idea what he means but maybe he knows the Faerry have some innate sensing ability and that is what he means?] [The two men move onto Raban and scan him.] Zhou: "You are who? Those clothes seem to indicate some bardic training is that correct? If so if you are a musician we could use you at the wedding." [Then they move onto Unali.] Zhou: "Your dagger is magical. While many have such here of course it won't be allowed in the Elder's Manor. You are of the Lands?" [He must refer to her face that has some features of Katai.] [Both then move to Z'leyra.] Zhou: "Your bird will be allowed to fly soon. Please keep it at bay till then. You are shaman and appears from the scans of your many magical items a wizard?" [After a response is given he then returns to Chion and scans him. Protocol must demand that the main guest of honor or leader be scanned last?] Chion: "Those bones on your hip are for what purpose?" [If a response is given or not both steps back and addresses the party as a whole.] GM: Among the above they ask "Who are you. Where are you from? Do you have titles of nobility or other titles? What is your basic occupation?" But I didn't do it above for duplication. So assume this is asked of each person aside from Chion which they seem to know already. You see how Caladan responds. Their scans seem to detect magic items as well but your unsure if they detect purpose. Zhou: "Again welcome to the Dark Lands. We must cover some rules of protocol for those not used to our culture. First the High Elder is ruler of all Domains in the Lands. he does not rule as your monarch does but instead rules through power and charisma. The domains are so different from each other that he is the link that keeps the Lands all together. Below him are a set of Nobles of the highest level to land holders. Below them the peasantry may be made up of slaves or free men. Here in the Elder's Domain the peasants are all free. He does not use any slave labor force. In this Domain it is a place of neutral orientation in that wizards of different orientations should not conflict openly unless they are prepared to deal with a Wizard Challenge. These duels are rare in this Domain but common outside. While the High Elder only dolls out the Domains to certain nobles only through Challenges does a new wizard get land here. At this time all Domains are ruled by one person. The primary Domain Holders are 17 oriented to the Chaos gods, 1 Elder, 7 Balance and 4 oriented to the Law gods. Yes. We have a good mix of orientations here. Outside in most cultures this open nature of obvious conflict would not work. but here we see Magic as a single force of nature to be used for the better of mankind not as a conflict among petty wizards for power. This is not to say we have our internal conflicts. All tight communities do. But you may see a Law wizard sit side by side with a Chaos wizard. Something no where else on the planet you may not see this. Chion may have already given you some rules of conduct. However, as a reminder speak only when spoken to when you are aware a person has higher status than you. It would appear all of you have higher status than the peasantry so treat them as lower than you. Never use magic unless you are prepared to justify the use. Visitors are allowed to use magic here but for security reasons in the Citadel they may be restricted or prevented. Use of some magic could be mis-understood by others as a challenge. So when you use magic use it wisely and at your own risk. All weapons are to be kept in sheaths. Pulling out a weapon shows a possible sign of offense to some nobles here and may be mis-understood as a challenge. Katai men may misread gestures and body language. Since magic is done with hand gestures its best to keep hand movement at a minimum. At the manor weapons and magic items may be confiscated or asked to be stored away. All guests will be given keys to magical lockers for your personal items. If you refuse to turn over magical items or weapons access to the Manor will be refused. Some weapons like daggers or swords may be worn outside the Manor but if you have questions on weapons ask any of the guards. The Elder has asked you to attend a special wedding tomorrow. It will be formal, but if you have no formal clothing we can be helpful to arrange clothing. The reception before and after is formal optional. There will be a private audience with the High Elder likely tomorrow depending on his schedule after the wedding. He wishes to see all of you who have come personally for some purpose. It is strongly suggested you attend that audience but the wedding is optional. We can arrange a personal tour of the citadel or village if needed just ask any servant or guard. At the Manor as I said some magical items may be needed to be stowed away. You may be required to explain some personal items or magical items. This is for security purposes only and not meant to offend. It is your option to comply or not. You are guests here after all. Unfortunately, the Manor is filling up with guests from other domains. I will have to check to see if there is room there for you to stay. If not you can stay at the Citadel Tavern and Inn for free. At the front gate of the citadel you will find maps and guide information if needed. Your horse...you did not bring horses?" Caladan: "Transmuted to these structures." Zhou: "Ahh. Your horses can be kept in the stable. They will be safe, fed and groomed for. Feel free to keep any items in the horse's stalls or stable storage. You will find there is no thievery here in this Domain. It is frankly impossible to get away with it. With the security wards and truth magic a thief can be caught way too easily. Outside the domain the village could have some need to watch your stuff but the patrols keep crime down to nothing. Outside this Domain you will need to take your chances depending on the land." [Kee leans in and whispers a reminder.] Zhou: "I am sure you are hungry. You may go to the Tavern and eat tonight on us. There is a semi-formal dance tonight in the citadel courtyard. If any of you are musicians please see me if you are willing to help. It seems some of our local entertainers have come down with a cold or been hired out for other functions in other Domains. So we are short handed. The dance will be at 7 pm. The High Elder will not be attending as he is holding another dance in the Manor for some higher nobles. The wedding will be held at the same courtyard at 8am tomorrow morning. At 10 am a reception will be held for a feast and all are welcome to attend. At noon or around there the High Elder will try to have his audience with you. Are there any questions on protocol or schedule of events?" [After a few minutes of possible responses he puts his talisman into his robes and waves the party forward.] Zhou: "Come! Let's enter into the bright sun." [The party is led down the hall with the two guards at the rear. At one point in the hall they stop and return to their places in the teleport room. After a bend in the hall the party sees steps that lead up to a door. Zhou and Kee open the doors to reveal sunlight. So the room is below ground? The party walks up the flight of steps into the bright sunlight. Warmth is the first thing folks feel and the scent of spring flowers. Chion knows it well.] Zhou: "It is like this constantly spring here. Even in the dead of winter. The High Elder's magic keeps the cold at bay." [Caladan leans into Z'leyra and whispers.] Caladan: "Not even Woundenal can't do that for his valley. Though he can hide it from normal view." Zhou: "This is the High Elder's Citadel and home. This area is made up from 5 areas. The North, West and East districts are the village of the people. This citadel is the fortress for defense but we haven't used it as such for that purpose. We are quite safe here. To the south is the Lake district. As you can see the citadel is 3,000 feet wide by 850 feet. The entire village may contain 900 citizens but at this time with visitors we might be at 1,200. At any one time the citadel might have 100 people in it. The High Elder does not need as many guards as other nobles so you may not see as many guards around but there are other reasons for that. Rule by force is no rule but by power and knowledge is another way to make the people happy. Over there at the main gate you will see a map of the districts and shop information if you are looking for something in particular. I do not know how long you will be here but feel free to shop around. You may spend time at the lake if you wish it is fairly big for small boats with a depth of 50 feet. The lake area is a good place for artists and magical training to be. If you see some magical training in progress it is strongly recommended you do not ask questions or interfere. That may offend and disrupt the training." [The party looks around. Chion hears the words about magical training. Yes its common for wizards to train here. It seems to be a good focus for magic. But then again the High Elder set it up that way. Here he can also pay attention and observe the wizard who does the training and their future ambitious apprentices for possible trouble areas. Even Chion was aware of likely being observed and assessed by the High Elder's eyes or his magical eyes and ears.] [All around the citadel the stone wall looks thick and about 15 feet tall. A good defendable fortress wall. There are four sentry towers standing 40 feet high in each corner for observation. To the left in the east is the three or four story manor house that has to be the High Elder's. Behind it is a even taller square tower. The tower seems to be 60 feet high and taller than the manor itself. Zhou spends a good five minutes explaining locations of shops from the blacksmith to the stables in a brief tour by hand. He points out the tavern to the party where they can eat now.] [Chion knows this place well. The only thing that seems to have changed is a new shop to the south. He looks over to the Manor. Now that he is stronger in magic he still wonders if he could ever explore that place. The rumors of rooms inside rooms and hidden areas and the manor looking bigger from the inside than outside abound. Most expect the High Elder to be in a sprawling mile long mansion but the Manor as squat as it is seems to suit him. He doesn't have to show his true wealth and power to outsiders. By being here and seeing the citadel and its magics seems to convey that bit too well.] [Corona looks eager to fly but Z'leyra stops him. Kee notices this and whistles loudly and gets the attention of the sentry tower nearby. He then makes some hand gestures quickly conveying some message to the guards. Kee waits and soon through some unseen method the guards convey the message to the other towers and guards. After two minutes while Zhou is still talking Kee gets a signal back through a flag at the tower.] [Kee leans into Z'leyra and whispers in Marentian during a pause while Zhou stops speaking.] Kee: "He is free to fly now. Birds with collars like his may scare the guards thinking its a possible wizard or other thing. They are aware of him now and won't harm or observe him. He should be safe." [All the while Arawn listens to Zhou explain the citadel grounds while in place. Why won't he walk around but that could take some time. He wonders why this powerful wizard reported by Kaylle to be the most powerful wizard on the planet needs such mundane military defense? Is he paranoid or is he weak? Even gods need none of this nonsense about guards. Sure they use supernatural forces to defend them but they don't need mundane weapons and walls to keep them safe. A new paradox of human behavior to study.] [Ben'dar is eager to check on Tef'wo. He hears the tour description but knows the duration of the spell may run out soon. He is eager to let the horses loose and free. Ben'dar has seen forts and castles in Marentia from Cholchara to Maren but this one seems to be more covertly intimidating than overtly like in Marentia. A unique style of defense to show your power without truly seeing it. But then again the Zen'da people do that in some way by showing their prowess in games.] [Caladan sees that the firesnake is eager to fly around and explore but keeps him in hand. A smile comes to his face as he watches Zhou explain the place. Just last night he was eager to travel home to Marentia knowing it could take 2 months and now he is over a thousand miles from home and the burdens of the tribe.] [Chion looks around the citadel grounds looking for anyone he might know. It has been a few years but just maybe he knows someone. He does seem to recognize a few guards and servants but the occasional person walking the grounds he doesn't recognize.] [Fremea looks back at the underground area and wonders if there are more underground areas. Why are all the other buildings up ground and this one under? Maybe that is a way to defend the teleport area from invaders? It would be easy to shut the main door to the hallway and prevent access. She looks around but knows the distance is too far to sense magical wards but her general sense tingles with magical awareness all around her that seems to imply there are many wards here.] [Zhou leads the party down a dirt well tailored path between the Armory and Blacksmith shops. He stops and gives more directions.] [Raban looks to the large open area to the south. He notices a small stage being setup and stands of torches and tables being setup. He notices some acrobatics being done on the grass and musicians tuning up their instruments. He notices one particular person doing acrobats well. When the man stands he towers over the nearby Katai people by a good foot. Raban wonders if he is non Katai?] [Unali glad to be in the cramped underground area is happy to be outside. Within minutes she analyzes the walls and towers to wonder if her skills could be used. Its always good to know if one can escape or if in some odd reason enter a place they stay in. The walls are climbable but those towers cover a lot of ground. It would be difficult but not impossible. She notices one main gate and no others. One way in and out. A well defended military position. Farseeker would love this place. The fort she stayed in with Farseeker had 3 ways in and walls that could be climbed by a kid.] [Z'leyra lets Corona fly high and rests her arm. Corona has put on some weight lately. He must be killing more rabbits behind her manor. Even though she feeds him decent food for a pet he still likes to hunt for some reason. Z'leyra looks around and wonders if the Domains have a shaman ruler? If not maybe the people have some bias toward shamans?] [Time: 5:43pm] [Sunset in 1 hour or so.] Actions? Comments? Next update...Friday... GM: Enough of a update for now. Lots of text to cover for now. GM: See website for map of the Domain at the bottom of the page. For current the party is at E9 in front of the public area (P). You may study the map and hopefully there is no mistakes. :) Info on the map is pretty much public or a given so I publish it now. If questions let me know. GM: Aside from introductions as above let me know if you want to do anything for now. The schedule has been setup as above.