Early Journeys

Organiser's Comment

Session I went well despite a small technical hitch, the java-IRC-applet. Fun was had and prior tales were discussed, a promising start.

Plot Summary

Now the merry, anxious, group have assembled at the Tildruin gates. After quick greetings are exchanged Shandor, leading, thrusts open the gates and rides off, the others following quickly. They travel until the sun sets before setting up camp. One by one the group drop off to sleep.

 

Full log

Narrator : Amid the clear, blue skies and lush green forests lies the largest city on the western coastline. At the edge of this city is a band of excited, joyful people, from all races. Two elves and one Dwarf stand on a make-shift podium. These are, Shandor, Mihwen and Thor. They gaze down on the group assembled. Today was the start of a journey of a lifetime.

Narrator : The time is mid-morning, some people still look tired and weary-eyed. Against the wall are backpacks, crates of food and bottles of water, further along the wall are several mules. Several people brought stallions with them for riding, others are working their way towards the stable to pick up horses from a supportive stable-owner.

Shandor calls out to the people, 'We are all gathered for the adventure of a lifetime and there is no reason to delay it any further. Mount up and lets move out!'

Mihwen says 'finally we're going, it was about time'

Lesharn approaches the crowd.

Leokin says "Glad I could join you all"

Shandor grabs a piece of parchment blowing in the wind, in finely written letters is a message, 'I'll see you in Emerald bay, Enox Sarinox.'

Leokin says "Oh Enox won't be joining us? I was hoping to see him"

Lesharn says carefully, 'Fair tidings wayfarers'.

Shandor turns to the halfling, 'fair tidings Mr.....?'

Mokh rises to his feet sniffing in the air

Lesharn bows deeply and nearly stumbles.

Lesharn blushes, his cheeks are burning.

Lesharn stutters, 'I..I..I am Lesharn Moonweed, once known as The Poet of Evelyee. I was once ministrel at the royal courts of Torindal, but....'

Shandor smiles his half smile.

Lesharn stares into the horizon.

Lesharn sighs heavily and adds, 'that was a week ago... Now the dirt filled roads are my arenas and the field mice my audience.'

Lesharn sobs quietly.

Mokh's ears twitches at the sound of sobbing

Shandor says, 'A bard? Now our trips will be filled with music, join us!'

Leokin fidgets with his amulet...

Leokin insists" Yes Lesharn, please join us"

Shandor mounts the white stallion beside him.

Shandor looks down at the halfling, 'Lesharn, go over to the stable, he will provide you with a pony, or horse.'

Mokh raises a hand slowly, pleading for attention.

Lesharn nods carefully and proceeds towards the stables.

Leokin looks at Mokh

Mihwen mounts her black stallion..

Leokin says "What is it Troll?"

Shandor turns to the only troll, 'Yes?'

Lesharn nods at a stable hand and mounts an old mule.

Mokh says slowly in broken common, 'Shaman Ogunk said he meet me here. And we go with you.'

Mokh frowns,'But he is not here.'

Shandor extends a hand to shake with Mokh's, and even on the horse is barely the height of him

Mokh examines the hand curiously, looking for a gift

Mihwen says 'greetings Dytalorien you finally showed up'

Leokin turns to Dytalorien, "Greetings"

Dytalorien grins, "I didn't know when my presence was required, that is if it is at all."

Shandor turns to Dytalorien, 'greetings friend, a smiling face is always welcome.'

Dytalorien muses, "I hope grins will be acceptable instead. Smiles just don't suit me."

Lesharn nods discretely at Dylatorien.

Mokh grabs Shandor’s hand gently

Leokin asks the party "Are we in a serious hurry?"

Thor says, ‘What in Tarkna do you think you are doing Shindy? That's a Troll!'

Shandor says, 'Now, now Thor, we are all friends here.'

Leokin says "We only have the same purpose Shandor"

Mokh mutters decidedly, 'Ogunk must wait ahead. Me shall come with you.'

Lesharn approaches the party .

Leokin says "Don't be mistaken"

Shandor turns to Leokin, 'If the purpose is the same we have to work together, so we must all become friends.'

Mokh smiles toothily

Thor turns away from the Troll, 'Are you sure Shindy?'

Leokin slow says, "Yes friends....for now"

Lesharn s face turns white as he looks away from the troll.

Leokin asks Lesharn, "Have you bought any of your kind's delicious pastries along?"

Lesharn smiles happily and asks, 'yes, would you care to have some?'

Leokin says "Indeed I do"

Mihwen smiles 'Leokin, those aren’t good for your figure’

Lesharn rummages through his bard satchel.

Lesharn says, 'Where did they go?'

Lesharn peers at the troll.

Leokin rolls his eyes

Shandor removes the pastries from his pockets, 'Sorry, Lesharn.'

Lesharn nods at Shandor.

Shandor passes the food back to it's owner

Mokh hesitates, unwilling to take his eyes from the halfling food

Lesharn passes a raspberry pastry to Leokin.

Leokin smiles "Thank you Lesharn" and takes the raspberry

Lesharn says, 'You're welcome, have you travelled far?'

Mihwen says 'hope you people brought soap...'

Lesharn chuckles shyly at Mihwen.

Leokin sighs, "I was once again following the voice of my love "

Shandor while no-one is watching, takes a bite out of the pastery he didn't reveal.

Leokin " years have passed, and no sign of her soul....."

Shandor turns to Leokin, 'truely that is a sad tale of woe, the women I love is just over there.'

Shandor points to the elven lady, Ariea.

Mihwen looks at lady, Ariea and envy her clothes

Lesharn comforts Leokin and says, 'you have experienced much pain...'

Leokin sighs, "But I will not give up until I find her.

Shandor turns to Leokin, 'Did you ever think of using magic to find her?

Leokin nods, "I have Shandor, but it is no use"

Shandor trots his horse over to the main gates, 'Pray why, Leokin.'

Leokin continues "It does not reveal to me that she is present ....ANYWHERE"

Shandor thinks for a moment then says to Leokin, 'Could she have used planar travel?'

Leokin shakes his head "you do not understand Shandor"

Shandor says grimly, 'dead?'

Leokin "We lived a horrible tragedy years ago....I do not want to talk about it anymore"

Lesharn nods at Leokin and says, 'your face reveals that much'

Leokin sighs even more, "When I hear her voice..."

Leokin says "Her soul has been 'stolen' I believe. Her body is with my aunt Toraena but she cannot talk nor hear"

Leokin says "I think we should be leaving soon, before I hear Reinus's Call again"

Shandor says, 'Indeed we must move soon or the sun light will be wasted.'

Shandor calls out once more, 'Everyone mount up.'

Lesharn tries to find a comfortable position on the mules back.

Mokh stretches his legs, this will be a long run.

Lesharn nods at Leokin.

Lesharn says, 'I must warn you, there are those that would have me hung upon sight...'

Shandor smiles his half-smile at Lesharn, 'You are not the only one.'

Lesharn chuckles politely.

Mihwen askes 'gentle men, are we leaving today?'

Shandor smiles, 'Yes of course Mihwen.'

Shandor swings the main doors open and trots into the dirt path outside.

Mihwen takes up an apple from her saddle bag..

Shandor begins trotting along the dirt path.

Mokh begins to jog beside the road.

Leokin follows and appears to be gliding because his robes shade his feet.

Lesharn prods his mule on urging her to a faster pace.

Lesharn smiles at Mihwen and asks, 'that is a burryl apple is it not?'

Mihwen looks at Lesharn 'you want one? I’ve got plenty of them'

Lesharn says, 'Yes please, I was raised on an orchard you know?'

Mihwen slows down her horse and waits for Lesharn

Shandor says, 'I merely built and ate on and from them.'

Mihwen says 'here you go'

Lesharn raises the apple in thanks to Mihwen.

Leokin asks Lesharn "May I have another raspberry"

Lesharn chuckles at Leokin and says, 'That you shall, when we arrive at our destination. Tonight I shall make more, if you can find me a raspberry bush.'

Leokin smiles, "Thank you, raspberries are Reinus' fruit"

Mokh stops to examine a branch stretching over the road.

Lesharn says, 'actually blueberries make wonderful pastries as well, but they will mark you for the rest of the day!'

Leokin chuckles.

Shandor smiles.

Mokh finds a fat larva, and swallows it greedily.

Mokh smiles happily, displaying far to many teeth.

Leokin says "I wouldn't mind having raspberries all the way, but I don't know about the others....especially Mokh"

Lesharn covers his mouth in disgust.

Mihwen thinks for her self... we’ve got to learn someone some manners

Mokh reacts to the mentioning of his name, 'Mokh?'

Lesharn smiles at Leokin and asks, 'have you visited our halfling town of Evylee?'

Leokin turns to Lesharn "No I have not..."

Leokin says" I have only passed by Mervin Hills a few times"

Leokin says "The folks there are kind"

Shandor opens his backpack and takes out several strange looking fruits. 'Will you try some of these, the best ever I've had.'

Lesharn s eye expand widely and says, 'Shandor, I have never seen such fruit...so vibrant colours.'

Leokin looks towards Shandor.

Shandor smiles, 'Take one.'

Shandor passes the fruit to Lesharn.

Leokin seems interested.

Lesharn accepts Shandors offer with delight.

Shandor passes another one to Leokin.

Lesharn says, 'Shandor, I will keep them if you don't mind'

Mokh absently scans the undergrowth for more food.

Leokin takes it and asks shockingly, "Ho-how did you obtain these"?

Shandor says, 'They grow on only one tree in the A'lure forest.'

Lesharn leans forward in his saddle curiously and nearly looses his grip!

Lesharn blushes and says, 'clumbsyfinger, that was my nickname as a child.'

Mihwen asks Shandor 'what are the plans for today?'

Shandor turns to Mihwen, 'We travel south to Emerald Bay, no doubt when we get there we will need to rest before looking towards the gift.'

Shandor takes a bite out of the fruit. 'Each person tastes a different fruit, well the flavour anyway, it's what ever the person likes.'

Leokin places the fruit from Shandor under his sleeves.

Shandor says, 'In myth magic was used, but I'm not sure.'

Lesharn says, 'I think I will save my fruit for an occasion when I am lonely and weary'

Mihwen says 'care for another apple?'

Shandor nods at Mihwen, 'If I may?'

Lesharn says, 'hey! where did the troll go?'

Leokin seems to be pondering something.

Mihwen says 'he's back there..'

Mokh pokes his head out from the underbrush of the side of the road.

Shandor smiles, ' Lesharn, how could you not see him?'

Mihwen talks to Shandor in elven, or smell

Shandor looks at Mihwen and grins.

Mokh says curiously, 'Troll?'

Lesharn laughs heartily and adds, 'that troll is funny'

Mokh looks around shrugging.

Lesharn says, 'I think I shall call you Mokh Underbrush.'

Mokh grins in response to Lesharns laughter.

Shandor chuckles, 'Now, now Lesharn.'

Lesharn giggles to himself.

Leokin chants in a mysterious tongue "I` ler Kchi`- g`uals`ir gi ^ios"

Leokin says " I pray this journey goes well"

Mokh sniffs in the air.

Mokh turns south frowning.

Mihwen says 'Mokh could you run ahead and scout the train?'

Mokh nods absently.

Leokin says "I think he smells Ogunk"

Mokh says,'Wind calls'

Mokh says happily, 'Ogunk must be near.'

Lesharn says, 'that troll is indeed the strangest creature I have ever seen'

Shandor turns to the new dwarf, 'Kamrock old friend! You managed to catch up?'

Mokh waves hastily and picks up the pace

Kamrock smiles gently.

Lesharn nods slowly at the newcomer.

Leokin says "We lost one, and now we gain one"

Mokh yells, 'Mokh shall find you again. Mokh great tracker. Mokh bring Ogunk!'

Mihwen 'hail master Kamrock'

Leokin says "Greetings Kamrock"

Shandor says, 'I swore you would be too old to catch up. I suppose your stallion accounts for most of that.'

Kamrock says 'I am old maybe, but that doesn't mean I can't hike the distance' and laughs

Mihwen says' you made it after all'

Mokh disappears in to the forest

Lesharn says, 'greetings dwarf, I have heard much about you.'

Mihwen says 'Kamrock this is Lesharn, Lesharn this is Kamrock'

Kamrock says 'Welcome to our merry band

Leokin says, "He even brought along raspberries! That should help us "

Lesharn says, 'I don't know if my mule can keep the pace'

Shandor whispers an incantation. Lesharn's mule picks up speed.

Shandor smiles, 'That should keep it going until Emerald Bay

Leokin asks "Does the mule have a name?"

Lesharn pats his mule and says fondly, 'yes her name is Appleseed, for he loves them above all'

Mihwen says 'Lesharn was once ministrel at the royal courts of Torindal

Lesharn turns away and says, 'yes, but that was a couple of weeks ago...'

Leokin asks Lesharn "Do you think you could play for us a song now?"

Kamrock says 'Ahh, songs, I know a few forging anthems but nothing very musical

Lesharn says, 'were it that I could, but my voice is not yet strong enough. However I have something else that might amuse you.'

Lesharn rummages through his bard satchel.

Shandor smiles, 'Pray tell.'

Leokin eyebrows rises.

Lesharn produces a set of juggling balls and sends them flying into the air!

Leokin peers up.

Kamrock chuckles gently

Kamrock says 'All this is good, but I am in much need of a drink'

Lesharn makes a quick motion with his hand and all of a sudden the juggling balls are multiplied.

Shandor glances up.

Kamrock reaches for a large skin hanging from his horse.

Lesharn catches one ball behind his neck!

Leokin chuckles.

Lesharn catches one ball behind his left ear!

Lesharn catches one ball behind his right ear!

Lesharn catches one ball in his mouth!

Mihwen is impressed

Leokin says "Oh ho ha ho....oh Lesharn. Indeed you have amused me"

Shandor quickly removes a leather-skin pouch filled with Elven fruit juice, he takes a gulp and nearly spits it out in surprise at Lesharn

Kamrock looks at Lesharn, obviously very impressed

Lesharn raises his hands in a victorious motion.

Mihwen says 'I’ll cook you something special for dinner tonight Lesharn..'

Kamrock drinks an amber liquid from his skin

Lesharn smiles happily, 'thank you. You are much to kind.'

Kamrock says 'Apples?'

Leokin laughs.

Lesharn beams a grin at Mihwen.

Mihwen smiles, not really, but do you care for one?'

Kamrock says 'Nope, don't like them much, I'm a Hog man myself,' he pulls a large leg from his pockets

Leokin asks "How long until we reach Emerald Bay?"

Shandor says, 'at least one days travel.'

Kamrock says 'A days walk? What if we rode?

Shandor smiles, 'Travel, friend, travel, your hearing must be failing. If we ride it will take at least one day and night, with minimal rest.'

Lesharn says, 'Mihwen, tell me, what is the most praised ballad in A'lure these days.'

Mihwen says 'must be the one about Ce'lorians lost love'

Lesharn says, 'oh! you must sing it for me sometime.'

Leokin stops.."Lost...love"

Mihwen looks at Leokin 'sorry my friend, didnt want to hurt your feelings'

Leokin smiles "It is alright Mihwen. I know you meant no harm"

Lesharn says, 'this gift we search for, is it found in Emerald Bay or is that but a stop on our journey?'

Kamrock says 'Ahh, I think you may be needing a little help, I have enough of it.'

Shandor says, 'It is found around the town, but I advise we rest in town.'

Shandor continues, 'I have heard tales of a band of...less than pleasant people roaming round the outskirts.'

Kamrock mounts his steed and searches among his packs, he returns with a bundle of metallic objects and ten skins.

Shandor this map is old but according to it, it is a few miles south of the newest section of town.

Lesharn says with a worried expression, 'Shandor, whatever is what you did to my mule Appleseed, does it have any side-effects?'

Shandor thinks for a moment, 'Not that I'm...' Shandor seems distracted, 'I'm aware off.'

Shandor looks slightly weak and weary.

Lesharn says, 'sing I cannot, but play I can!'

Lesharn gets a wooden lyre from his bard satchel.

Lesharn grabs a wooden lyre and begins playing softly.

Leokin casts a spell on Shandor, "Are you feeling better now'?

Shandor looks in a trace amount of pain, 'Leokin, I feel...'

Shandor falls of his horse and onto the dirt road.

Leokin is shocked.

Kamrock dismounts and pours the amber liquid over the Elves lips.

Mihwen holds her horse...

Shandor coughs and chokes awake, 'Thank you, old friend.'

Kamrock says 'Here finish the skin, you'll be needing it.'

Shandor stands up shakily, ' Leokin, perhaps it was the combination of our spells, do not worry, I am okay.'

Leokin eyes looks at nowhere in particular

Mihwen speaks with Shandor in elven, you shouldn’t be drinking as you're leading

Kamrock says 'Ahh the liquid isn't as you think, a beer. It tastes and looks like one though, it is a potion'

Lesharn says, 'This melody is a journey song, to ease the burden of heavy feet and the hearts of sad men.'

Leokin says "Please forgive me Shandor..."

Shandor shakes his hands, 'No need Leokin, really.'

Lesharn hums the melody to himself.

Shandor says, 'let us listen to Lesharn's melody and continue on our way.'

Leokin sighs "I am a priest and my job is to help others....yet..." sighs.

Lesharn inquires, 'a priest? what deity do you serve?'

Shandor smiles at Leokin, 'It has happened before, do not worry.'

Leokin answers "I do not serve any.....I was raised by my aunt Toraena"

Kamrock says 'Shandor, I shall lead us up to the bay, but when we get there, you will have to take charge again.'

Leokin continues "It was she who taught me the magic"

Shandor turns to Kamrock, 'Very well.'

Leokin says "You could say I am a self-proclaimed priest"

Lesharn says, 'Leokin, your aunt must be a powerful woman.'

Kamrock mounts his horse and canters to the front of the group.

Shandor falls back a few places.

Leokin smiles "She is indeed....but I cannot tell you anything about her, sorry"

Kamrock says 'Thor, would you watch Shandor, at least until we reach Emerald Bay'

Thor nods

Kamrock says 'What rangers do we have here?'

Lesharn chuckles and says, 'I understand Leokin, but one day I will inquire further. I sense a story buried here...'

Mihwen looks around.. any ranger?

Leokin turns away "Everyone has a story"

Lesharn says, 'that’s true, and yet not all stories have found their melody.'

Shandor tries to encourage, 'Yours may be more interesting than most.'

Kamrock says 'But many are too long ter tell

Leokin sighs "But I'm sure others' stories are much more beautiful than mine"

Kamrock says 'Do not bank on that,' and let's out a long whistle.

Lesharn says, 'beauty lies often in that which is shunned'

Leokin says "I nearing my seventies, quite old for us humans"

Shandor looks at Leokin, 'I can't imagine what it is like to just live a hundred years, it must be awful.'

Kamrock says 'I am nearing my two hundred and twenties, extremely old for a Dwarf

Leokin smiles at Kamrock

Shandor states, 'I am nearing my one hundredth birthday.'

Leokin turns to Shandor "You've read my mind Shandor, I was about to ask you that"

Lesharn says, 'Shandor, how do elves celebrate their becoming?'

Kamrock says, 'I shall scout out the area, just up ahead.'

Kamrock rears his horse and gallops off ahead of the group.

Shandor smiles. 'A great parade is held, and you should know Elves excel at celebration.'

Dytalorien appears out of nowhere...

Lesharn nods at Shandor.

Leokin jumps

Dytalorien grins, "Somebody say 'Ranger'?"

Mihwen says 'Dytalorien finally'

Shandor calmly says to Dytalorien, 'I was wondering when you would appear.'

Lesharn raises an eyebrow at Dylatorien.

Dytalorien grins, "Eh..I was following something rather interesting, and forgot the times."

Shandor says, 'Pray tell what it was?'

Dytalorien smiles, "Your curiosity was always fully active, Shandor. A griffon...of the most magnificent silver plumage ..had a hard time keeping up with him."

Dytalorien pants to demonstrate.

Lesharn stops playing and stashes away his wooden lyre.

Mihwen asks Shandor, ‘are there any villages on the way?’

Shandor smiles in memory, 'I have not seen a griffon in several years.'

Dytalorien agrees, "Aye, a rare sight..."

Lesharn says, 'you all seem to have so exciting lives!'

Mihwen say ‘not me..’

Shandor says to Mihwen, 'I'm afraid the only village I know of on this route was destroyed in a battle.'

Leokin says "What aabout you Lesharn?"

Leokin says "You haven't told us much about yourself."

Kamrock returns wheeling around the group and joining at the head.

Mihwen says ' I brought to little tea with me..'

Lesharn says silently, 'I was once known as the Poet of Evylee, but my life has seen little of dragons and brilliant swords...'

Leokin smiles "I'm sure your life is just as exciting, considering your occupation"

Dytalorien chuckles, "As long as it's not ale..."

Lesharn gets a wine flagon from his satchel.

Lesharn gulps a mouth full of wine.

Leokin takes the mysterious elven fruit and bites into it.

Mihwen looks at Leokin, 'how exciting can it be buying and selling herbs and spices'

Leokin whispers to himself "and I live"

Shandor looks at Mihwen, 'depends on the traders.'

Dytalorien grins at Mihwen, "If they're poisonous and can kill on contact..very.."

Lesharn says, 'Leokin, my magic lies not in my life, but rather in my songs. They are the eye openers to the past and worlds untold.'

Dytalorien coughs, "they can...rather."

Leokin smiles "I see...

Leokin says "I hope to see some more of your specialties Lesharn on this journey"

Lesharn nods and says, 'I will do my best, but I feel as a misfit among heroes of steel and glory.'

Shandor smiles, 'Without you, how could hero's be remembered.'

Leokin chuckles "I am no different from you"

Dytalorien chortles, "Heroes of steel and glory..only if you'd wish them to be. Sung in different ways..they could be decrepit liars and cheaters."

Shandor winks at Lesharn, 'Or thieves.'

Leokin says "Heroes, what are they anyway?"

Leokin says "What makes a Hero a hero?"

Shandor says, 'A hero is only your view; a father of three children can be a hero.'

Mihwen says, as my father said, hero always dies first'

Dytalorien replies to Leokin, "Aye, perception is the key to all."

Leokin ponders, "To me, a father or three children is just a father with three cildren"

Dytalorien adds, "But to the three children..he may be a hero of greatness."

Lesharn says, 'that is true, a bard in Evylee once said, 'give me a bum, and a lyre. give me three days and I will make him a hero, such as the world has never seen.''

Lesharn says, 'and guess what?'

Lesharn says, 'he was right! The tales of Vylcint Sunblossom are a classic!'

Nezai gallops up on a large white horse, his white robes flowing around him.

Leokin nods at Dytalorienn

Shandor adds, 'And to care for and love them.'

Shandor says to the familiar face, 'Hail Nezai.'

Kamrock says, 'Ahh, You made it my priest,'

Leokin says "Nezai, I believe we have not met"

Dytalorien adds, "Then again...if that is said...then we're all heroes.. kind of defeats the purpose..does it not?"

Nezai says, 'It was hard work keeping up with you.'

Dytalorien waves to Nezai

Lesharn says, 'Dylatorien, your mouth is a hostel of wisdom.'

Leokin laughs" yes, yes, we are heroes, if not we will be heroes"

Nezai says, 'I am Nezai, the Elven priest and potionist, friend of Kamrock.'

Dytalorien bows, "Why, I appreciate that."

Shandor says, 'Indeed, Dytalorien, you are forever wise.'

Lesharn tips his straw hat towards Nezai.

Dytalorien bows a little deeper.

Leokin smiles "I am a priest as well"

Mihwen says, 'its not for the fame we do this...'

Lesharn says, 'Nezai? that name sounds familiar...'

Nezai says, 'Ahh, who do you follow?'

Shandor adds, 'Yes, it is so the father and three children will have a world to grow up in.'

Nezai says, 'I know only basic healing magic’s, but my strengths are my potions.'

Leokin ignoring that question takes out several beans from his sleeves and gives some to Nezai.

Lesharn says, 'in the end I wish to make you all as famous as Vylcint Sunblossom!'

Lesharn blushes.

Leokin says "Those will help our friends. I something should happen to me, you can still help"

Nezai looks at the beans curiously.

Lesharn says, 'oh potions? do you cultivate your herbs yourself?'

Leokin tells Nezai "But use them wisely, their effects are of the user's wants"

Dytalorien grins, "I'd rather not, since I've never heard of Vylcint Sunblossom..."

Lesharn blurts, 'but he is the dream of all halfling children!'

Shandor laughs with Dytalorien.

Lesharn says, 'such a bum as the world has never seen before!'

Shandor bursts out laughing.

Leokin only smiles.

Nezai tells Leokin, 'Ahh, I have something of a similar power,' hands the beans back, 'I do brew my own herbs and flowers, as they are in short supply here.'

Dytalorien chuckles.

Leokin reluctantly takes the beans back, "If you do run out, do ask"

Lesharn gets a pouch of seed from his satchel.

Nezai says, 'I shall, but rather work to my own skills than others.'

Lesharn gives Appleseed a mouthful.

Lesharn says, 'Nezai, I see. Do you mostly use roots or petals?'

Dytalorien muses at how he can keep up with all these fine steeds on foot...

Nezai says, 'Neither, I use the Stigma and Stamen of the flowers,'

Mihwen rides up behind Lesharn and listen to the discussion

Leokin seems interested.

Nezai says, 'They prove a more powerful tool, the petals are not enough for the best potions.'

Lesharn says, 'interesting...do you prepare them as decocts?'

Shandor perks his ears up to listen closer.

Leokin says "The best potions are not made with herbs"

Nezai says, 'I mustn't go too far into detail on brewing, You shall put me out of business.'

Dytalorien ponders, "Exactly how many flowers would you have to collect to get enough for one potion?"

Lesharn says, 'sorry for prying, ... you see..I was raised on an orchard. I know little about flowers, but have a certain skill with trees.'

Dytalorien sighs, "And I was starting to learn something."

Nezai says, 'Very many, around one hundred will produce a Quart of the best you can get,'

Lesharn raises an eyebrow and says, 'Nezai, you are indeed a remarkable priest.'

Mihwen wonder is anyone knew the time.. i cant see the sun..

Dytalorien eyes grow wide, "I knew patience was a virtue...but you must be bulging with it to have time to collect some many flowers.."

Leokin says "We should discuss are knowledge of potions sometimes"

Dytalorien coughs, "so many...rather."

Lesharn nods in agreement.

Shandor looks up at the firmament, 'It is getting late, perhaps we should set up camp for the night?'

Nezai says, 'Remarkable, but I have no real skills in most magic’s, I am very weak away from my pots.'

Kamrock says, 'I think that would be best

Leokin says "It's your passion that will make it strongest"

Leokin nods

Lesharn says, 'I see. do you follow a particular goddess?'

Leokin asks Kamrock "Did you find anything?"

Nezai says, 'I do, the Lady of the Moon, Garanakarae, the lady of the night.'

Leokin says "You have been gone for an awfully long time"

Shandor stops his horse and takes out rolls of material from a pack strapped onto the horse.

Kamrock says, 'I have been here, watching, the roads seem strangely quiet.'

Shandor begins unrolling them, revealing several tents.

Lesharn says, 'Lady of the Moon? We must speak more about this later.'

Kamrock halts and throws a few items to the ground, please arm youselves,'

Shandor looks up at Kamrock.

Lesharn hickups.

Leokin says "yes, I too would like to learn more of the Lady of the Moon"

Dytalorien hand suddenly grasps a previously unseen long curved saber.

Mihwen pulls a knife from nowhere

Leokin says "I need only my amulet and my spells"

Shandor unsheathes Basserix, it lets out a quiet, soothing sound.

Nezai says, 'My Lady, she is well known in Iestrad and the AngleRian kingdom.'

Lesharn says, 'I cannot defend myself, neither would I dare sleep with a weapon in my hand.'

Mihwen rides up to Lesharn

Dytalorien grins at Lesharn, "Why? 'fraid you'd poke yourself in your sleep?"

Lesharn beams a smile at Mihwen.

Leokin takes off his amulet and gives it to Lesharn

Mihwen says I’ll protect you my little friend..

Kamrock says, 'Ahh, please yerselves, I have forged you a fresh knife, Mihwen, should you need her.'

Leokin says "Wear this, it is from my aunt, and will protect you"

Shandor looks at Kamrock, 'why do we arm ourselves now? does danger approach?'

Mihwen says throw it here

Lesharn hangs the amulet around his neck.

Leokin sees the amulet glow blue.

Lesharn says, 'I am weary of powers I know little about, but I suppose this amulet cannot harm me tonight...'

Leokin smiles "That is a good sign"

Kamrock says, 'I have been listening recently to the birds calls, My brother calls, he must be ahead of us.'

Lesharn exclaims 'oooo!'

Kamrock says, 'He only calls when it important to be ready at all times,'

Dytalorien taps his head with the flat of his blade.

Shandor says wearily, 'If evil wishes to strike it should do so soon or I will fall asleep where I stand.'

Kamrock dismounts and pulls his axe from his belt.

Leokin says "Do not be overwhelmed Lesharn, although it does feel strange"

Dytalorien grins, "Maybe that's it's design..."

Lesharn glances at Leokin and nods wearily.

Lesharn gets a handful of halfling pastries from his satchel.

Lesharn says, 'anyone`'

Dytalorien furrows his brows, "Exactly where is the danger...I’ve seen nought sign of hair or limb."

Mihwen 's knives disappear in one little almost unseen move

Leokin says "I would like some"

Lesharn passes the halfling pastries around.

Leokin thanks Lesharn.

Shandor quickly sets up his tent. 'No food for me thank you.'

Lesharn says, 'we must find raspberry bushes soon or I will be all out.'

Kamrock says, 'I can not tell, I was hoping you'd understand the sounds of a Dwarven Ranger,'

Dytalorien waves off the pastries with a wave of his saber.

Lesharn sniffs sadly and puts away the leftover pastries.

Shandor says, 'I advise everyone gets some rest, I fear the spells may have taken more out of me that expected. It has been years since I've needed one.'

Dytalorien chuckles, "I'm not a dwarf and therefore not familiar with their sounds..."

Mihwen says, dont worry you can have them for dessert

Mihwen ask 'anyone wants some dinner?'

Kamrock says, 'I am not familiar with the languages of Rangers, he is clearly no bird though.' and listens tothe darkness.

Lesharn raises his hand.

Shandor shakes his head before sitting down just in front of the tent.

Leokin shakes his head "The pastries were enough for me"

Lesharn withdraws a bird-flute.

Lesharn says, 'perhaps this would help?'

Nezai says, 'Weary, Shandor?

Shandor says, 'I apologize, talk and be merry, but I must rest soon, spells are but a temporary cure.'

Dytalorien makes a vague, subtle movement of his hand..and a silver flute appears.

Lesharn blinks in disbelief.

Nezai says, 'I apologize, I fuelled my self on my potions to get here, I shall need to join you soon,'

Mihwen 'what about some roasted ham and some cheese Lesharn?'

Lesharn says, 'this is indeed a splendid journey. I have not seen this much magic in my entire life.'

Dytalorien returns his sabre to it's hidden position.

Lesharn licks his mouth and nods at Mihwen.

Kamrock says, 'Magic is but an illusion, all too often.'

Dytalorien grins, "If one cannot tell the difference, what does it matter?"

Kamrock says, 'Ok, then all should check their armours and weapons, I have extras if needed.'

Lesharn says, 'Kamrock, I am not a man of arms, but perhaps something to replace this straw hat?'

Dytalorien twirls his silver flute 'fore placing it before his mouth and playing a beautiful dulcet melody.

Kamrock throws a light helmet to Lesharn

Leokin looks out at the amber sky

Lesharn weighs the helmet in his hand.

Leokin sorrow covers his face.

Lesharn closes his eyes and dons the helmet.

Lesharn says, 'Thank you Kamrock. It does feel a bit strange, but perhaps it will save my life.'

Mihwen asks 'can anyone set up a fire?'

Dytalorien grins at Lesharn, "You look like a halfling with a pot on his head."

Kamrock says, 'I have yet to meet a dart that can pierce one of my helms.'

Lesharn chuckles politely at Dylatorien.

Dytalorien replies, "Aye I will."

Dytalorien scans the area and gathers the necessities for a fire.

Dytalorien places some rocks in a circle.

Lesharn says, 'I know how to throw darts. I have heard that they can be used as weapons... but I have yet met someone to teach me.'

Leokin sprinkles some dust in the circle

Mihwen ask ‘who wants some rosehip tea?’

Dytalorien places wood and tinder within the stone circle.

Leokin says "This will produce an awful scent. Pray that we are not disturbed tonight"

Lesharn exclaims, 'Mihwen, you are a wandering kitchen!'

Nezai utters a few words and the moon appears from behind a cloud.

Leokin glares up at the beauty of the moon.

Dytalorien mutters a prayer, and waves his hand over the wood. A blazing fire emanates throughout holding back the tide of darkness.

Nezai lays down in the dust and prays to the moon.

Leokin watches Nezai with interest..."Do you think I could follow a god or goddess?"

Kamrock says, 'Sure, but try not to bother him while he prays,'

Dytalorien lays his back against a tree and closes his eyes listening to his surroundings.

Mihwen takes a pot from a mule, and start to boil some water

Leokin apologizes, "Oh sorry Nezai for interrupting your prayers"

Leokin says "Who is it?"

Kamrock says, 'Just my Brother,'

Leokin says "Ah and so it is him.....hello Karron"

Karron slips into the light of the fire.

Leokin says "The shadowy figure....oh...it reminds me of sad times"

Mihwen smiles, ‘the famous elven brewer’

Karron says, 'Ahh, the group, I have been watching ahead, a raiding party are looking for gold.'

Dytalorien eyes pop open in interest and listens more intently.

Karron says, 'I carry no drink on me.'

Karron says, 'May I adjust your fires?'

Dytalorien nods his assent.

Karron scans the area quickly, looking for something.

Mihwen says as long as you don’t disturb me while cooking

Leokin says "We shouldn't have to worry about visitors. The lady of the moon is protecting us, and so are my ...special powder"

Karron closes his eyes and waves a hand, the land becomes dark, and only the people around the fire illuminated.

Karron says, 'We have everything to fear, I have hidden the fire from all but us.'

Leokin says "The powder when burnt will produce a terrible odour which only the evil intents can detect"

Dytalorien moves his flute before his mouth once again plays...this time a sad solitary tune.

Leokin says "Do not worry Karron....."

Karron says, 'Evil?, and what is your definition of Evil?

Leokin replies "Evil...hmm....I've seen so much of it. "

Karron says, 'Surely we are Evil to some,'

Leokin nods.

Karron says, 'Than this odour, it affects us?

Leokin continues "We all are evil at times, if you are not evil now, it will not affect you"

Karron says, 'As I said before, define Evil.'

Leokin says "Simply put, bad intentions amongst others"

Karron says, 'Bad intentions? I am Evil then, and I have been for a long time.'

Leokin says "Once again, Evil is only a momentary thought"

Leokin says "One can not be evil all the time..."

Leokin says "If the odour has not affected you, then I am sure you do not have any bad intentions now"

Karron says, 'And you can tell how?

Leokin twitches "Unless your nose has a problem"

Leokin says "I trust Kamrock and his friends, therefore I trust you"

Karron says, 'I have an evil thought in my mind, always.'

Leokin eyes widen, "hmmmmph?"

Karron says, 'I shall tell no more, I kepp myself to myself

Leokin relaxes, "You are no harm to me...at least that';s what the powder implies"

Leokin nods "Yes, we should keep it at that"

Leokin asks "Mihwen? Mihwen?"

Karron says, 'Leokin, I am protected by my spells.'

Leokin says "As am I

Dytalorien replies, "I thinks she wandered off somewhere..."

Karron says, 'That is why your magic has no affect on me this time.'

Leokin says "For your good, I pray it doesn't"

Karron says, 'For mine? Or for yours?'

Leokin just smiles.

Karron says, 'Stay ready, we must be prepared for an attack

Leokin says "I thought Mihwen was cooking something"

Mihwen raises her head from the pot... anyone talking with me?

Karron says, 'I have eaten, the food of the raiders.'

Dytalorien muses, "I'd thought you'd cast a spell to hide us from enemies?"

Karron says, 'Only the fire,'

Karron says, 'I am no great magician, I a mere Ranger.'

Dytalorien grins, "Then perhaps I interpreted wrongly."

Leokin says "Mihwen, I have become hungry from my talk with Karron. Do you have anything left to eat"?

Kamrock snores gently.

Dytalorien waves his hand, "Aye, me too."

Mihwen smiles.. men and small boys are the same.. always hungry..

Karron slips off out of sight.

Mihwen hands out some nice cheese and a nice piece of ham.

Leokin says "He's a strange one....I fear for him"

Mihwen asks tea anyone?

Dytalorien grabs the cheese, but waves off the ham.

Leokin nods "Yes please.

Nezai raises from his prayer, 'Tea, hmm that'd be nice.'

Dytalorien ungraciously grabs the tea from Mihwen's hands.

Dytalorien gulps the hot tea, and burns his throat...

Leokin turns to Nezai, "Ah I see your are done"

Dytalorien yelps and runs about awkwardly..

Kamrock wakes in the chaos.

Leokin says "Were you able to hear my question Nezai"?

Nezai says, 'Aye, you can follow the Lady of the Moon.'

Leokin is interested, "The lady of the Moon....can you tell me more about her?"

Nezai says, 'She is a wild lady, and you must keep her happy at all times.'

Mihwen looks at the sleeping Lesharn.. poor little thing ;)

Leokin also looks at Lesharn "He also wanted to know about the Goddess, but I guess he cannot hear now "

Dytalorien chuckles, "I doubt any halfling is poor..."

Mihwen smiles..

Leokin smiles at Nezai, "I'm sure the Lady has protected you many a times"

Nezai says, 'She requires sacrifices, very substantial ones too.'

Nezai says, 'Who do you think keeps the raiders at bay?'

Dytalorien eyes widen, "Substantial? How substantial?"

Leokin says "I see..."

Nezai says, 'Mihwen, what holy foods do you have?'

Leokin chuckles.

Nezai says, 'I need Cheese and wine, she will keep us safe.'

Leokin says "She has holy cheese and holy ham I believe"

Dytalorien muses, "Your not telling me the moon goddess wants cheese and wine, now are you?"

Leokin chuckles even more.

Nezai says, 'I need cheese and wine. The Lady want's more, '

Dytalorien grins, "Aye, I would hope so."

Nezai says, 'But unless you have a Troll on you...'

Mihwen dont serve any god or goddess

Leokin says "I wonder how Mokh is doing"

Mihwen says. if there were any god or goddess my mother would never been killed!

Leokin says "He was a troll that was with us earlier"

Leokin looks at Mihwen "Everyone dies Mihwen"

Nezai says, 'Is he willing to be converted to our ways?'

Dytalorien blinks at Mihwen.

Leokin says "Mokh is a strange one, I'm unsure how he would feel"

Dytalorien says to Mihwen, "All things die Mihwen, it is how we die that's important, Not when."

Leokin nods "The memories are most important"

Nezai says, 'Well, I must travel to the coast for a sacrifice.'

Mihwen yes but all things isn’t killed by bandits!

Dytalorien replies, "Perhaps, but what is past is past...learn from it...but do not dwell upon it."

Leokin continues "There's a reason for everything. I'm sure your mother died for a reason....a good reason"

Nezai mounts his horse and leaves westerly.

Mihwen says she died while fighting for me!

Leokin is worried " I hope Nezai will not have to sacrifice his life one day"

Leokin says "And so there is your answer Mihwen. If it weren't for your mother, then you' might not have been here with us this day"

Kamrock says, 'I'm sure he will,

Dytalorien says, "And I'm sure that she's happy that you remember her so well..but doubtless she's less so in that you grieve for her still.."

Mihwen mutters.. I will revenge her... and goes and sitt by a tree

Leokin sighs, "...I'm still searching the reason why Reinus' must become the way she is now"...

Dytalorien opens his mouth...but decides otherwise.

Leokin asks Dytalorien, "We still do not know each other much, where are you from?"

Dytalorien replies to Leokin, "Here and there, a wanderer has no origin nor home."

Leokin says "I've been wandering too, for a good years"

Leokin says "do you have any interesting stories to tell"

Dytalorien replies, "Aye, but perhaps at another time."

Leokin nods and smiles.

Mihwen returns much calmer.. sorry about that...

Kamrock says, 'So then, Leokin, what stories can you tell?'

Leokin surprised says "Ah Kamrock....stories...many many stories...but sadly all tragic ones"

Kamrock says, 'Really? Not a single happy story?

Leokin brightens, "Well, one....it is about an old friend....wonder how he is now"

Leokin says "Do you really want to here it? "

Kamrock says, 'Well, I have very little time left, I'd like it to be enjoyable.

Mihwen says yes pls..

Leokin smiles "It's a long story but I'll make it short..."

Mihwen sits by the fire

Leokin reminisces, "His name is Calnite....the prince of Nispraud. Nispraud as you may not know, is a kingdom ruled by humans, far, far away from here"

Leokin continues "You see, his grandfather ruled the kingdom."

Leokin says "The man became really ambitious one day, and plots to have his sons and grandsons killed"

Leokin shows some anger in his face, "That Relix....he did not want his descendants to take over his throne"

Leokin stops.

Leokin finally continues, "And so Calnite exiles himself....I first met him in the outskirts of Nispraud"

Leokin says "Learning of his tragedy, I decided to help"

Leokin smiles, "I do not want to go into deep details....since..."

Kamrock says, 'Do not go one if you don't want to...'

Leokin says "What is so memorable was that I was able to help my friend Calnite, and his grandfather understand"

Leokin nods, "The incident also reminded my of Reinus....which I do not want to talk about"

Kamrock says, 'I have a great many years of experience. One such event was a great battle.'

Leokin continues "The story also contained tragic moments....I have only told you a part of it........it is not...complete"

Leokin listens with intent.

Mihwen is going for bed, see you tomorrow morning guys

Leokin nods "Good night Mihwen, you deserve the rest"

Kamrock stands, 'Back a long time ago, back in Iestrad,' brightens with excitement, 'We were setting up the defences, we had been warned a few days earlier about a large Orcan Army advancing on us.'

Leokin listens with extreme interest.

Kamrock says, 'I was there, on the front line,' wields his axe and starts to act out fighting, 'Orcs were everywhere when we marched from the city upon them, taking out the Orcs right left and centre.' Kamrock swings his axe burying it in the ground, 'I was hewing these Orcs down, like Kobolds at a Dwarven banquet.'

Kamrock says, 'I was caught, across the belly, with an Orcan pick axe, spilling blood everywhere,' lifts his chain mail to show a scar spanning his belly, 'I survived it, but was carried from the battle field after it was all over.'

Leokin sighs, "I understand how that would feel"

Leokin says "I'm sorry, please continue"

Kamrock says, 'Much celebrating was done afterwards, and was a Hero for the night. It was an amazing feeling.'

Leokin smiles.

Kamrock says, 'It would complete my life If I was a hero again.'

Leokin says "We will be heroes when this journey ends"

Kamrock says, 'But, now I must rest, for a while, will you keep watch?'

Kamrock says, 'If you need weapons there are some here, and call if we are attacked.'

Leokin nods "I will keep watch, although there won't be anything to fear....I'm sure of that"

Kamrock crawls into a tent and settles down.

Leokin glances at all the resting bodies.

Leokin speaks to himself "I known them only for a short while, yet they seem so close to me already"

Leokin whispers "Reinus, I` ^i`os di~st rua, ^ei`k dul nni......"

Leokin's eyes slowly close.

Leokin falls asleep.