s HT Alias/Player Character Name Type Status/Notes Sex -- ----------------------------------------------------------------- R1 John Haight...........Arawn.............Druid .Normal/Alfar Ma ?? Chris Wells...........Ben'dar...........Warrior.Normal/Human Ma ?? Tom Corckett..........Caladan...........Wizard Normal/Human Ma W2 Marcel Liberty........Chion.............Sailor..Normal/Human Ma -- Tobie Bonahoom........Fremea............Sidh....NormalFaerry Fe -- J H Hooten............Raban.Usherwood...Bard....Normal/Human..Ma W4 Wout Broere...........Unali.............Ninja...Normal/Human Fe R4 Alex Koponen..........Z'leyra...........Healer..Normal/Human Fe Animals: Corona [Eagle] Z'leyra, Boyzdar [Wolf] (Strie'bog), Game Web Site - http://www.funport.com/longshot/pbem Public posts/actions to pnpgm@abroere.xs4all.nl (mailing list) Private emails (not public actions) to longshot@darktech.org Game Update #36 in sequence (file #138) ---------------------------------------------------------------- Admin notes: None. ----------------------------------------------------------------- [Recap] From Arawn: [Re: Actions] I hadn't heard back from Chion in regards to what he'd be looking for in regards to trade for the language of Katai. Arawn would like to trade evenly if possible, a mundane tongue for another mundane tongue. He knows Helva, Elf Sidh, Faerry Sidh, Vassa, and Zenda as well as the Horse Tongue and a specific Bird Tongue. If Chion is looking for Supernatural Tongues, what languages is he looking for and what languages does he have to trade? Arawn will mention Sidh, Elder, Cernunnos, Kototh, Tonah, and Neutral. Or is Chion looking for something else in trade ideally? GM: Ack. Who knows. -------------------------------------- From Chion: [Re: Actions] Chion (having smiled at the comment about not being able to steal here) smiles again and asks in a polite tone, "May I please know now whom is to be the bride and groom tomorrow?" He also smiled at having the option of not going to the wedding, but figures he probably should attend. GM: Ack. -------------------------------------- From Ben'dar: [Re: Actions] For an instant, Ben'Dar seems to consider answering Cetric's question. Perhaps Ben'Dar will finally confront his past? But no, then the walls come back up. Ben'Dar merely shrugs indifference to Cetric's question about further news or instructions to his kin. ***** Later in the strange Katai citadel, Ben'Dar scowls fiercely to hide his discomfort at the strange surroundings. In response to Zhou, he says briefly in Marentian, "Yes, from Zen'Da. I am Ben'Dar, warrior of the Fel'oros people." At the remark on his clothing, Ben'Dar's scowl melts away and he smiles widely. "But of course! I have brought pretty clothing especially for the occasion." He seems to be enjoying some private joke. GM: Ack. -------------------------------------- From Fremea: [Re: Actions] Fremea will answer: "Fremea, Donara, I do not know my family. Hmm, now that is an interesting quesion, I don't have an answer for it at this time." All the while she has a small smirk on her face, as if something is very funny to her. ------------------------------------------------------------- When they ask if her to possible assist on something later, she will answer: "It would be interesting to see what another set of humans would need a Fae for. I would be interested in hearing about this assistance you could use. Sure, let me know when." She keeps her attention on them as they do their checks and questions, just observing all the while. GM: Ack. -------------------------------------- From Raban: [Re: Actions] Raban: "I am Raban Usherwood, son of the renown Dancer Areta Usherwood. I am from Xian, though I rarely stayed there. Perhaps you know it better as part of Donara. I am an acolyte Bard of Miryan of the Court of Cernunnos and I would be happy to help entertain. There may be some small problems as I have not yet learned your language or culture so I may need to restrict myself to playing instruments or dancing. But I can assure you I am a master of both and will need little practice to perform properly. I have been given other titles but most should not be said in polite company." GM: Ack. -------------------------------------- From Z'leyra: [Re: Actions] To the questions Z'leyra responds "My name is Z'leyra. I am a very experienced shaman, wizard, magician, enchanter and healer. For determining status, respect for my magical abilities should grant me respect equal to that of high nobility. My mother Z'nayha, was a respected Kameri shaman. My siblings still live in the Kameran. My father Tiren, was a Ticasi scholar who was a member of the Counsel of Scholars. After his death I left my studying at The Great Library in Ticasi and have sought to help those I favor as I travel. I currently have an abode in Sivas, Marentia. This is my eagle companion Corona." Z'leyra steps forward saying "I offer my assistance both as a healer and as a percussionist. If skilled or magical healing of the musicians will assist in making the celebrations better then please lead me to them. I indulge in the hobbies of singing, dancing and playing percussion...but for such an assemblage I would be hesitant to be more than a backup percussionist." Z'leyra whispers back to Caladan "To do such magic is truly impressive...even to those highly skilled at magic. The amount of magic that must be manipulated to do that permanently for such an area is more than some wizards will cast in their lifetimes - and that was likely cast within a few days." GM: Ack. -------------------------------------- From Arawn: [Re: Actions] Arawn had spent his life in court, albeit one rife with immortal affairs, and he knew enough to understand that protocol was a varied thing. Still, he knew enough to understand that, most of the time, there were certain actions and behaviours worth applying in an unknown situation. Keeping to this he calmly replied back in a modest tone in regards to Zhou's questions. "Thank you, it is my honor to be here," he nodded, lowering his head courteously. "I am Arawn, son of Morrigan and Payan of the Courts of the Sidh and True Sidh in the higher realms and their voice and hand among the druids of their faith." As they journey along Arawn makes a mental note of any significant things, starting with using Memorization on the rune-covered wall. As Zhou leads them around he asks, "The wall in the room where we entered, it bears many interesting marks, some of which I recognize while there are others I do not. If I may inquire, what meaning do they hold?" Later on, before they exit the building, Arawn asks, "You mentioned that other elves had been here before but rarely stayed due to conflicts. I am unsure as to the nature of the conflict but is this anything that I may need to concern myself with?" -------------------------------------------------------- When they finally arrive outside and Zhou asks if there are any further questions Arawn makes a general inquiry, stating what he has already learned, and attempt to gain a further understanding of their customs in an effort to further learn their etiquette. At the very least he asks Zhou for any physical acts (bowing, hand gestures, etc.) that are deemed rude or, on the other end, signs of respect as well as how to properly address someone. Afterwards he will take a map and guide book and take a guided tour around the town and Citadel before exploring it on his own. He will keep an eye out for anything of interest and magics being used in the area. He will fully explore all 4 wards as well as the Citadel if time permits. In regards to the wedding and dance, Arawn will attend these if it comes up in the next post. He will dance and participate accordingly. During this time, if Chion has not yet allowed him access to learning the language (as I haven't gotten a response yet) Arawn will ask Zhou for permission to learn the tongue through magic. if this is allowed then Arawn will cast Tongues to learn the language permanently. During this time Arawn will have his face unwrapped. Despite his concerns in regards to his mysterious appearance in the middle-world he thinks that, if anywhere in the realm of mortals, he may be safe from prying eyes here. Indeed, he may have an opportunity for insight into this here, where supposedly the greatest living mortal mage is said to exist. GM: Ack. -------------------------------------- From Fremea: [Re: Actions] Fremea will explore (using her abilities as such) and find interesting places for the hour to the party. Fremea will attend the party, though mostly to see what it is like. She will observe as it seems she will be the only Fae there. When she hears of the wedding and who it is that is getting married, she snickers that people get married so young and wonders why it was arranged. Course, it is not like she really understands any of it herself. "I will be glad to attend. I hope it will be entertaining." [Deleted Quote] GM: Ack. -------------------------------------- From Chion: [Re: Actions] In response to Chion's question about who is being [Deleted quote] Chion tries to recover his slight smile prior to the finish of the translation. When it is complete, he will say "Oh. Ok. That makes sense." And won't pay much attention to his companions who are no doubt cooing, wooing, and generally snickering by now. Serena. He looks down at his ring. Lady Serena. Looking back to Zhou he starts a hearty laugh. Then when he is done he will tell his friends, "Some traps cannot be avoided and must be braved instead." Smiling. GM: Ack. -------------------------------------- From Raban: [Re: Actions] [Raban will inquire as to where he can find the other entertainers so he can practice the local music and prepared pieces. Once there he will quickly learn what is needed even without a common language, though it would be simpler with one.] GM: Ack. -------------------------------------- From Unali: [Re: Emailed actions snippet] To Z'leyra in Marentian: "Z'leyra, we should find time and sit together. Even though you have mastered the skill to speak my language, you do it no justice. Theirs is the song of the butterfly if the eastern wind blows. No amount of translation can catch the meaning of that phrase unless the language is understood." To Zhou in Katai "I am Unali. It is Katai that I was born in and where is was trained as a warrior of the shades." GM: Ack. ----------------------------------------------------------------- [New Stuff] [Marqi 29, 1633TH. 1st Day of Adventure #4. Location: High Elder's Domain, Dark Lands, North-East corner of continent, center of Dark Lands.] [Time: 5:35pm] [In the Teleport/Reception Room underground. Zhou asks for name and titles of each person for record keeping. Ben'dar replies to the question of introduction.] Ben'dar: "Yes, from Zen'Da. I am Ben'Dar, warrior of the Fel'oros people." Zhou: "A proud and fierce people of great warrior stock. Of course rumors about your shamans are just that rumors. So I can't attest to their magical prowess. I don't recall the tribe you speak of but know the Zen'da. In fact at the reception tonight if I see Novassa I will introduce you to him. I believe he is from that area of the plains." [Kee leans in and whispers something to Zhou but Zhou just shoos him away with a hand.] [Zhou asks Ben'dar about proper clothing "just in case".] Ben'dar: "But of course! I have brought pretty clothing especially for the occasion." [Ben'dar smiles back at Zhou. Zhou begins to speak twice but nothing leaves his parted lips as he tries to be diplomatic it seems. He moves on to the next person. [Eventually Zhou ends up at Fremea and she gives her full introduction.] Fremea: "Fremea, Donara, I do not know my family. Hmm, now that is an interesting question, I don't have an answer for it at this time." [As Fremea replies she has a smirk on her face as if she is enjoying a private joke. Humans must love these noble titles. Sidh folk have some titles but not as much as humans do. What a waste of time she figures.] Zhou: "Donara? A very far place indeed! A noble land I hear of some of the best nobles in that region." [Zhou gets Raban's full introduction.] Raban: "I am Raban Usherwood, son of the renown Dancer Areta Usherwood. I am from Xian, though I rarely stayed there. Perhaps you know it better as part of Donara. I am an acolyte Bard of Miryan of the Court of Cernunnos and I would be happy to help entertain. There may be some small problems as I have not yet learned your language or culture so I may need to restrict myself to playing instruments or dancing. But I can assure you I am a master of both and will need little practice to perform properly. I have been given other titles but most should not be said in polite company." Zhou: "Acolyte Raban welcome. Yes. It is short notice but we could use help with entertainment. We'll direct you on that later. I am sorry I do not know of this dance group you speak of in Donara. But I'm sure they are quite capable." [Raban gives a slight bow as Kee makes some notes on his parchment and whispers to Zhou. Raban notice both stare at his face for a second more than normal. Raban sniffs to himself. Capable! The dance group was popular and great not capable traveling nomads on drugs! Raban already detects a slight snobbish nature of the Katai people.] [Zhou and Kee get to Z'leyra and she replies.] Z'leyra: "My name is Z'leyra. I am a very experienced shaman, wizard, magician, enchanter and healer. For determining status, respect for my magical abilities should grant me respect equal to that of high nobility. My mother Z'nayha, was a respected Kameri shaman. My siblings still live in the Kameran. My father Tiren, was a Ticasi scholar who was a member of the Counsel of Scholars. After his death I left my studying at The Great Library in Ticasi and have sought to help those I favor as I travel. I currently have an abode in Sivas, Marentia. This is my eagle companion Corona." [Zhou listens to Kee's translation and his eyes dart back from Kee to Z'leyra fiercely. Z'leyra detects a slight frown at one point but has no idea on which part of the translation it is. Did she say something wrong? Zhou gives a slight bow but a quick one.] Zhou: "Many job positions you hold. Interesting." [Z'leyra notes a slight bit of sarcasm from the word interesting.] "Here in the Dark Lands we specialize. You will find no one with multiple goals. We've learned such people tend to phase out and go into a dead end soon. For purposes of introduction do you wish to be called by your many positions or as a wizard?" [Z'leyra considers the words and stands a bit more erect. She feels the eyes of others. Her full introduction has revealed some things even the other long term friends might not know of her. Even Fremea seems to soak in the information with hungry eyes as if information is the true source of life. Like Raban's interaction Z'leyra detects a bit of snobbish air of Zhou but not so much of Kee but he is likely not even a noble but a petty free citizen. Zhou continues.] Zhou: "As to your nobility if you hold no title in the many lands you speak of the status here remains that of a non-titled citizen. These are not the customs I make but customs our people have made for centuries. I am curious though how a people of...worldly..." [Its clear he tries to mouth barbaric but stops to reflect a more diplomatic word] "as yours would be in Ticasi such a noble site of learning? Your father must've had great influence and honorable position." [Memories of Z'leyra's father and the last few years of his life come back. A flush of anger seems to ride up Z'leyra's spine at the nature of this man to almost indirectly directly insult her. Z'leyra could probably squish the little man with a well placed spell but as the anger gets to her neck it seems to fade before it explodes. As she considers her reply she continues her pre-planned speech.] Z'leyra: "I offer my assistance both as a healer and as a percussionist. If skilled or magical healing of the musicians will assist in making the celebrations better then please lead me to them. I indulge in the hobbies of singing, dancing and playing percussion...but for such an assemblage I would be hesitant to be more than a backup percussionist." [Zhou straightens his nice yellow silk shirt and pretends to wipe dust away. He looks up and nods curtly.] Zhou: "Yes. Well the High Elder has his own Healer here in the Citadel for the nobles. The village has a few for the other people. I'm sure you could talk to them. I'm sure your quite capable." [With a quick side step he moves onto to the next person. Raban growls under his breath. Did that little weirdo with the funny eyes just insult Z'leyra? It takes all he can to go berserk but he rather not create a diplomatic incident here for now.] [As Zhou walks away Kee leans into Z'leyra and whispers in Marentian.] Kee: "Excuse him. He has a thing against Shamans. I think it has some incident in his past with a Ipanza shaman or something. But--" [Zhou clears his throat for Kee to follow and Kee breaks off the conversation and trots off to join Zhou.] [Arawn hears the previous introductions and makes note of some tidbits of Z'leyra's past. Unlike the others here he has experience in courtly affairs. He knows that a word off even a tone of the voice could mean the difference between irking a royal, in his case a god, or staying in favor. Even the order of the words could ruin a introduction. He organizes his thoughts as Zhou gets to him.] Arawn: "Thank you, it is my honor to be here," [he nodded, lowering his head courteously.] "I am Arawn, son of Morrigan and Payan of the Courts of the Sidh and True Sidh in the higher realms and their voice and hand among the druids of their faith." [Zhou listens as Kee translates. Kee suddenly stops making notes and glances up. Both seem to stare then recover their posture and stand fully up. Arawn watches their body language for clues. How would they react to a non human here with a title like demi-god?] Zhou: "I know of your parents? This is indeed a great honor!" [Zhou and Kee whisper quietly and seem to argue over some details.] "Excuse me. I am not sure of the protocol of someone of your status here. I will have to consult others. But if I suspect the custom you may be introduced first to the High Elder and Court." [Arawn glances to Chion who seems to give one of his wicked smirks. How can he be introduced before Chion a native of these lands? He wouldn't want to take that spotlight away but Chion seem to enjoy this particular thing for some odd reason.] Kee: "Are there any special things you will need while here at your stay? I am sure the High Elder will request you to stay in the manor tonight and not the inn. I will make the arrangements if its all right with you." [Arawn smiles in return. He considers the situation and is starting to like this place. In Marentia he was almost treated as a thief, of course he wore his face mask everywhere. But here he gets upgraded to the best quarters? Now this is how to treat the son of a god! But Arawn eyes the others and wonders what they will think?] [Zhou gets Unali's introduction.] Unali: "I am Unali. It is Katai that I was born in and where I was trained as a warrior of the shades." Zhou: "A Katai proper native? I hope you do not believe those foul rumors of this land. I hope you decide on your own our true nature. One day Katai will welcome us back or they will soon die from overpopulation and corruption." [He raises a quick hand.] "This is not meant as offense. I'm sure you've seen this yourself. Katai is a great land of great people. But its nobles are biased to only themselves. They seek power and wealth not knowledge like us here. We only seek to harness magic for the good of man not kneel to the priests and the gods." [He glances at Arawn.] "This is not to say we don't have folks who are religious here. Its just we feel the gods aren't the only ones that should harness the full potential of magic. We feel man is destined to use magic by the gift of the gods." [He turns back to Unali.] "You are welcome here. We welcome all Katai natives here who have an open mind to the people here. Unlike in Katai where a wizard would be killed for using magic to save a dying person." [He pauses for a second or two.] "A warrior of the shades. Katai is great for many things but warriors of your kind are the best trained. Those who are skilled in stealth and intrigue are the true security to the Katai power base. I do hope you are not here to use your skills against us?" [Unali sighs inwardly. A word too much can create paranoia even in a clerk. Now she wonders if she'll be watched where ever she goes. She considers how to appease Zhou.] [Ben'dar shifts from foot to foot eager to leave this cramped place. Most Zen'da say their name and that's it. All this stupid introduction and protocol stuff is a waste of time. By the time you say who you are here they could be killed in battle! Bleh. So boring.] [Caladan shifts the firesnake on his shoulder which hisses every few minutes at Corona who stares at it. Caladan wonders who could win in a battle. Corona has those neat magical eyes but both can fly. The firesnake has a painful bite that could stun corona.] [Chion listens to all the introductions and sees how Zhou reacts. Last time he saw Zhou he was a simple house servant in the manor. Now he seems raised in position but doesn't seem to hold a noble title. Most civil style workers here rare hold titles. Kee he has never seen before until now. Chion wonders why he has been called here but is unsure to ask at this point. Time will settle that question. As Zhou starts to lead the party outside Chion wonders who or what he'll see in the next few hours. Old Friends? Old enemies? Old Masters? How much has this place changed since his last stay here.] ----------------------- [Time: 5:40pm] [As Zhou leads the party outside Arawn makes mental notes of the symbols and the citadel layout. He has seen a god live in a shack confident that his power is supreme. no need to have these primitive walls for so called security. Of course his parents live in a lavish castle. Arawn asks about the place.] Arawn: "The wall in the room where we entered, it bears many interesting marks, some of which I recognize while there are others I do not. If I may inquire, what meaning do they hold?" [With a simple wave of a hand Zhou replies.] Zhou: "Even I do not know all the meanings. You must understand the Dark Lands is a collective of similar minds and goals. We all respect magic and use it rather than let others use our magic for their purposes. That room is a symbol of such cooperation. It tells of all the groups here, their orientations, their goals, their dreams and their fears. Some I understand are simple symbols. Some are runes of protection and power. Some are just so arcane I don't know. Only the High Elder may know that. When a person obtains a high title and is granted his Domain he is allowed to add to the collection of symbols in his own right. But at this time with all the domains and all the land taken up new symbols will be a long time and coming. Of course the Expansionist wish to grow. But I will not bore you with those details." [Arawn listens intently and learns some interesting things. a collective of nobles who all use magic agree to live here in peace though their orientations conflict. A most weird paradox of human behavior. Then he learns of the Expanists? A group that likely wants change in the status quo. All society seems to have such groups.] Arawn: "You mentioned that other elves had been here before but rarely stayed due to conflicts. I am unsure as to the nature of the conflict but is this anything that I may need to concern myself with?" Zhou: "I only recall the citadel records. All personal aides have to read them. The problem with most Elves was that they could not understand how a chaos oriented wizard who worshiped death gods could eat across the table from a wizard of life. This conflict breaks most people's mind and they can't handle it or if they do they stand in one domain and never travel out. Most Elves who have been here stay only a few weeks at most." [He stops in mid-stride.] "I do recall a Elf...can't recall his name some 50 years ago or so. Way before my time. Seems he was challenged by a chaos wizard. the Elf killed him in magical duel and was granted the wizard's domain as is the law of the land. The Elf refused fearing the land cursed. He fled at the heels of many who chased him to the very borders. But by his nature he was able to elude pursuit in the great forests. As to your concern you are ..what do they call it? Allfae? No. I'm sorry is that Alfar? Once word spreads of this you likely won't even be bothered. But there might be some foolish kid who knows not of the ways of the gods. But I'm sure your skilled enough to handle such challenges?" ----------------------- [Time: 5:43pm] [Outside as Zhou gives the tour from the one spot they remain in with a quick overview of the citadel, Caladan whispers to Z'leyra about the magics. the amount of magic, wards and teleport block if they exist are impressive to Caladan even after seeing what Woundenal can do with his home. Z'leyra whispers back.] Z'leyra: "To do such magic is truly impressive...even to those highly skilled at magic. The amount of magic that must be manipulated to do that permanently for such an area is more than some wizards will cast in their lifetimes - and that was likely cast within a few days." Caladan: "For sure. Of course power is all show if one wants. We all put on armors both real and fake to impress others. If there is indeed one ward there might be others. But who says that sheer word of mouth makes the amount grow day by day? To defend this place must take great magic. However look at the place its warm here. Yet in the distance I could swear I see faint white of snow on trees. Its as if this place a ward to keep it warm here all the time. How could one do such without great power? The High Elder must be divine or have strong supernatural allies. Of course maybe it took several lifetimes of his servants doing magic to create all this. Who knows." [Z'leyra knows spells she uses to stop or prevent time and aging could be of use to a powerful magic. Maybe the high Elder uses something like that?] [After the verbal tour Zhou asks if there are questions. Arawn asks about general customs.] Zhou: "It is always best to use one hand while talking. Since most high power magic uses both hands it could be a possible threat. If you have to use both hands do them low below the belt line. This is a show of submission. Most noble customs are here. Always bow to those above your station low. A simple bow to anyone is acceptable. Never leave a room when someone is still speaking even in haste or anger. That is a direct rude sign and will likely result in a challenge. As to how to address you should always use the title supplied if they give it or others give it. If you do not know their name or title a general Sir or Lady may be acceptable to some but not all. It is important to address title by nobility, wizardry specailty, religious and finally scholarly levels in that order." [As Zhou gives custom notes to Arawn, Unali gets close to Z'leyra and speaks in Marentian out of earshot of Kee who knows Marentian.] Unali: "Z'leyra, we should find time and sit together. Even though you have mastered the skill to speak my language, you do it no justice. Theirs is the song of the butterfly if the eastern wind blows. No amount of translation can catch the meaning of that phrase unless the language is understood." [Chion smiles at the though of stealing and the low rate of crime. A skilled thief or wizard might be able to get away with it. But of course Chion has been gone for many years. Aside from that quick teleport here where he got the staff he hasn't "lived" here in many years. Has it been 4 or 5? Time flies. In that time the High Elder could've installed even more harsh wards. Not even Zhou probably is aware of all the magic in this citadel. A person might be able to steal here but would he survive the attempt long enough to enjoy the spoils? Chion recalls a great thief who was from Lemasa, or so the legend says, who tried to steal the High Elder's private collection of Triad Orchids. The Orchids said to be magical and of great value were planted in the open to the side of the manor to be seen by all. The thief under cover of darkness was able to steal all 3 orchids and even escape the walls of the citadel. But after only 2 miles of travel he was tracked down by servants of the High Elder. These servants who rumors dictate to be supernatural creatures quickly dealt with the thief in the most bizare and wicked ways. Legend has it they changed the man into a flower but with normal human eyeballs. For years birds, bees and creatures would use the thief-flower. It is even said many decades later you might find that thief-flower in the forest pleading and terrified. Always to be preserved from death but giving back to the forest. Always eager Chion tried to find the thief-flower by the old records but never found him even with Correll's great forestry skills. Most chalk it up to pure myth to improve the power of the High Elder. Who really knows?] [Chion breaks from his reverie and looks to Zhou for answers.] Chion: "May I please know now whom is to be the bride and groom tomorrow?" [Chion waits for the answer and smiles knowing that he has the option to attend the wedding or not. He notices Zhou and Kee seem to hesitate in their thoughts.] [Zhou explains about Lady Serena. Chion's flushes for the first time in a long time. Serena the cute green eyed gal with pigtails who liked frogs? Not her? No way! He goes through his options. He could run through the walls then teleport half a continent away. He could get married and settle down here to a gal he doesn't know. He could find a dupe to marry her off. Chion looks to Ben'dar. No. Chion looks to Caladan. That might work!] [As Chion considers his options Fremea hears about the awkward news. Arranged marriages are common in human society especially ones with a noble structure. Even in Donara they exist. Some marry into money, family power or to arrange some treaty like the person is collateral. A very stupid situation to marry someone you may never love or know for years. Fremea studies Chion's face and realizes he is not expecting this. The confidence she has seen in Chion for weeks fades away as doubt seems to get in him. Then she notices others seem to snicker and grin as if in some private joke.] Fremea: "I will be glad to attend. I hope it will be entertaining." [At that Caladan turns around so not to burst out laughing.] [Chion straightens up and grips his throat to clear it and regain his composure. So this is why the High Elder has called him here? To trap him. A clever man. He would never marry in such haste. Duty to his people seems to rule this situation. Who knows maybe she is rich and has her own domain?] Chion: "Oh. Ok. That makes sense." [He ignores the others who are in glee it seems at his expense. He gives a hearty laugh. He looks to the others.] "Some traps cannot be avoided and must be braved instead." [Smiling.] [Arawn wonders about this marriage situation. Would chion surely submit to such a thing? Humans have such odd customs. He recalls his mother trying to arrange a marriage for this one court Elf. But court intrigue made the pretty Elf leave. At the time Arawn wasn't much interested in marriage but now he'd wish to be just back home to do so.] [Ben'dar snickers at the situation. He crosses his arms in enjoyment. Not that he is being forced to marry but to see Chion become nervous and sick. To see his confidence wane. All men have that weakness and it finally hit Chion with his. Ben'dar can't wait to tell Farseeker and Xian about this! In Zen'da culture there are no pre arranged marriages. Marriages do occur young as 13 or 14 but a warrior tends to earn his wife through respect.] [Caladan snickers but doesn't smile at the news. But it fades. He knows Gib'borah has tried for years to get him married off only so he would be forced to stay at the tribe. So Caladan feels bad for Chion.] [Raban doesn't get much of the joke not knowing the party that well but seems to realize Chion is in a hard spot.] [Unali gets the joke and has a internal laugh at the situation. For all his confidence a woman can destroy it in seconds. Unali knows arranged marriages all too well. Many of her relatives had to go that route. Some hated it but others seem to tolerate it.] [Z'leyra doesn't like the trap Chion is in. She escaped life as a youth with a culture that uses arranged marriages for power not for love. But even Z'leyra seems to enjoy the fun the party is having. If she was a gambler she'd bet on how Chion would get out of this.] Zhou: "Yes. The Lady Serene is expecting you to be quite the groom. We thought you knew? The message sent to you didn't inform you of this?" [All around the citadel people are bustling back and forth in preparation for the night's dance. It seems to be a combination of dance, music, song, reception and outdoor feast. Already the open field is full of people setting up tables and stands for torches or lights. The field can fit a good thousand folks but likely will have upwards of 200 or 300 Kee says. Kee reminds the party weapons will be allowed if maintained in belts and sheaths if you wish to have them for show. Gear like backups, satchels and the like should be stowed away as some places might be a tight spot.] [Raban notices in the distance a good 100 odd feet a way a average sized man doing acrobatics quite well. He looks to be practicing in the open field. Its good to see a good acrobat again. It has been a long time since he was with his traveling group.] Actions? Comments? Next update...Friday... GM: Yep. Arawn still don't know about the trade with Chion as well. I guess he forgot? Maybe he'll see the top of the Recap section and re-read the languages and we'll figure out what trade is needed. (subtle hint!) Till then there will be a time limit on the Katai language for purposes of hearing dialogue. So hopefully it'll be soon enough. :) GM: People link on website updated. GM: Schedule - Currently - 5:45pm Tonight - Dance/Feast/Celebration/Reception - 7pm Tomorrow - Wedding 8am Tomorrow - Wedding Celebration - 10am Tomorrow - High Elder Audience - around noon GM: Sorry no update last Friday. Had a minor house disaster to deal with. So got distracted. This update believe it or not only has reaction to your posts. I need a couple more hours to deal with next period - the dance. So I'll have to put it all in the next update. You can still reply but will work on the dance stuff for next update. I'm off friday so have time to work on it. :) GM: Actions from 5:45-9pm - Time from now to around when the dance starts to end... Arawn - Guided tour of citadel and village. Arawn - stay in manor tonight? :) Ben'dar - Not posted. Will probably go to tavern for drinks unless post some other actions? Chion - Mingle with folks at Dance I assume unless states otherwise. Fremea - Explore citadel. Raban - Help to entertain and practice. Z'leyra - Unsure. Mingle I guess. So if you wish to clarify the actions till 9pm do so. After Dance update all will retire for the night. Will assume going to sleep unless you state something otherwise. After that will move on to the next day and those events. GM: If you've not looked at the citadel and domain maps you can do so on the website. The Dance will be at the field labeled P in the citadel map. It is 650 feet by 250 feet in size.