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Session Two: IC Log

WillCoon[5:42:22 PM]: So...
WillCoon[5:43:26 PM]: What inspired you to volunteer for this mission, Tiger?
Dakura[5:46:56 PM]: "It... was a chance to do more for Scarlet Haven than I had been. Patrols are one thing, this..." He looked out at the Tainted Lands around them. "This is something quite different."
WillCoon[5:47:22 PM]: Indeed! I agree entirely.
WillCoon[5:47:52 PM]: This is a momentous occasion.
Moonsword[5:48:25 PM]: This is a situation that needed level heads.
WillCoon[5:48:28 PM]: I'm glad we have such a dutiful soldier with us.
Moonsword[5:48:40 PM]: And I had some useful skills to contribute.
Moonsword[5:49:03 PM]: ::shrugs:: If we need to trade for a bit of information, my smithing talents may be of some use.
WillCoon[5:49:15 PM]: Plus... I'm sure you were just a little curious?
Moonsword[5:49:30 PM]: Somewhat, yes.
Moonsword[5:49:46 PM]: It's also nice to be away from Haven for a time.
Moonsword[5:49:57 PM]: *beat* People... tend to find me somewhat odd.
Dakura[5:49:49 PM]: Errant Tiger nodded at Valeria. "Also if we end up needing to effect repairs of our own equipment."
Moonsword[5:50:22 PM]: Certainly.
Moonsword[5:50:48 PM]: ::motions to her pack:: I have some minor tools with me, although not a full forge, obviosuly.
WillCoon[5:50:56 PM]: Well.. don't wory about them.
Moonsword[5:51:09 PM]: I don't, normally.
WillCoon[5:51:31 PM]: But it's good not to have to not worry about them, right?
Dakura[5:51:33 PM]: "Of course. Still, it's better than nothing. As for being odd..." He shrugs. "Who isn't in some way?"
Moonsword[5:51:34 PM]: That does not make the absense of strange looks and frightened children any less pleasant.
WillCoon[5:52:07 PM]: True enough, Tiger.
WillCoon[5:52:21 PM]: For one thing, we're all Chosen.
Moonsword[5:52:23 PM]: ;:Valeria nods silently.::
WillCoon[5:52:35 PM]: That is certainly an oddity itself, isn't it?
Friv[8:53:51 PM]: As the group travels, they get a better look at the tainted lands around them. While the ground itself remains dirt, it is tinted faintly silver, and is mostly barren of life.
Friv[8:54:17 PM]: To the west, they can see strange trees, and the sky abruptly changes from blue to a twisted red about half a mile in either direction.
Moonsword[5:53:33 PM]: This land is barren and forsaken.
WillCoon[5:54:14 PM]: ::Skein takes in the surroundings::
Dakura[5:54:26 PM]: "What else would you expect from something only so recently covered by the Wyld? I'm just surprised it's been fairly constant so far."
Moonsword[5:54:27 PM]: *beat* Do either of you have any idea what this is?
Moonsword[5:54:36 PM]: ::gestures at the sky with the end of her staff::
Dakura[5:57:39 PM]: Tiger looked up at the sky. "I don't know. A sea of rust? Paint? Who can tell unless we were able to get up close, and that's putting aside whether we'd want to."
Moonsword[5:58:36 PM]: ::Valeria looks pensive.:: It looks more like blood to me.
Dakura[5:59:21 PM]: Sighing, Tiger shook his head. "I was trying to avoid saying things like that, actually. Bad luck."
Moonsword[5:59:45 PM]: ::Valeria glances at him.:: My apologies, then. Still...
Dakura[6:01:38 PM]: "I know. But so long as it stays there I don't really care what it is. It's what tries to come near us that we have to worry about."
Moonsword[6:01:55 PM]: True.
Moonsword[6:02:03 PM]: Perhaps we'd best keep moving, then.
Friv[9:03:24 PM]: The group continues along their path, and after about ten minutes of travel, Hailey falls back from her scouting.
ambisinister[6:03:00 PM]: ::Hailey comes trotting in at a fairly quick pace from the west of the group, her armor making her outlines blur in an irritating fashion::
WillCoon[6:03:19 PM]: Hailey, what news?
Moonsword[6:03:37 PM]: ::Valeria watches with concern, frowning.::
ambisinister[6:04:46 PM]: ::drops her pace to match the others:: A pack of... creatures. Twelve of them. They're off to the west about 30 yards or so. They're roughly parralleling our group
ambisinister[6:05:08 PM]: They have the appearance of small shrubs...with teeth.
ambisinister[6:05:23 PM]: They linger on the edge between the Tainted Land and the true Wyld
Moonsword[6:05:51 PM]: ::Valeria frowns.::
Moonsword[6:05:58 PM]: Are they coming closer?
ambisinister[6:06:05 PM]: No.
Dakura[6:06:26 PM]: The Dragon-Blooded Leiutenant frowned. "I thought it was too calm. How long have they been with us, do you know?"
ambisinister[6:07:02 PM]: I noticed them about ten, maybe fifteen minutes ago.
WillCoon[6:08:08 PM]: Seen these before?
ambisinister[6:08:09 PM]: They do not appear to be hostile, but they are aware of the groups presence. They did not notice me as far as I am aware.
WillCoon[6:08:19 PM]: They don't look very ... smart...
Moonsword[6:08:45 PM]: Neither does Sgt. Takuza in the logistics company.
Moonsword[6:09:01 PM]: He's also the most cunning supply sergeant I've ever met.
WillCoon[6:10:09 PM]: So we'll be careful.. but then again, what are the chances that /everything/ in the Wyld is out to get us?
WillCoon[6:10:21 PM]: ::He said, knowing the answer full well::
Dakura[6:10:47 PM]: "They don't have to be smart to be dangerous... If we were back at Scarlet Haven I'd try to run them off, but we don't have the same abiltiy to fall back if we end up rousing something else instead..."
WillCoon[6:11:22 PM]: So we'll keep an eye on them.
ambisinister[6:11:53 PM]: My intent is to return and monitor the creatures from a safe distance. I just wanted you to be aware of their presence.
::Hailey inclines her head, then jogs a head of the party to update the two archers::
WillCoon[6:12:32 PM]: Thanks, Hailey. WillCoon[6:12:48 PM]: Be careful, and make sure you can regroup with us if they turn hostile.
Dakura[6:13:08 PM]: "Hold up... Take two fresh men to do the scouting and send the ones up there back. I want fresh soldiers since we now have confirmed sightings."
ambisinister[6:13:24 PM]: Understood, Sir.
ambisinister[6:14:02 PM]: ::Grabs the two archers of Tiger's choice and takes them out to perform the rotation::
Friv[9:15:47 PM]: Hailey heads off to keep an eye on the shrubs, and the formation continues to advance.
Friv[9:16:34 PM]: From a distance, you can't see much more than "there are plantish shapes, and they move sometimes". Friv[9:17:06 PM]: Hailey, watching them more closely, starts to realize that there seem to be some sort of pattern to their movements, and they are carefully walking over the patches of ground that previous shrubs covered.
FFriv[9:19:29 PM]: Over the next few hours, the trip descends into monotony; something odd, this close to the Wyld, but not bad.
Friv[9:20:16 PM]: The land, although rough, is unchanging, and this means that distance becomes hard to judge once the town fades into the distance. Aside from the mountains ahead and the creatures to the west, there are no good points of reference.
Dakura[6:25:18 PM]: Errant Tiger takes a look at the mountain ahead of them. While he doesn't know how tall it might be, he can tell roughly how fast the group is moving... Trying to work out how quick or slow the perspective size is changing, he tries to figure out how close they are to the land feature...
WillCoon[6:26:59 PM]: ::Skein picks up a handful of dirt, holds it at eye level, and compares it to the size of the mountain. He thinks for a moment before shrugging and admitting to himself that he has no idea what he's doing.::
Dakura[6:29:42 PM]: "I think we may reach that mountain within half a day's travel... Not sure, though..." He glances over to the side where the plant-creatures are in the distance. "Then again, we don't even know if it's staying in one place either..."
WillCoon[6:30:22 PM]: Well, let's hope so... I think we could take those plant things, but...
Dakura[6:31:13 PM]: "Let's not stir up trouble we don't need to. I don't want to run the risk of losing good men before we even reach Creation."
Moonsword[6:31:35 PM]: ::Valeria nods.::
WillCoon[6:33:54 PM]: ...
Friv[9:35:02 PM]: As the journey continues, the characters see more and more of the shrub-things, and although they still don't approach, they are increasingly pausing to watch the party go by.
Friv[9:35:14 PM]: In addition, every so often there is something else with them; These new beings are about seven feet tall, vaguely humanoid, covered in fern fronds and mushrooms.
Friv[9:35:36 PM]: On the flip side, the distance between the characters and the edge of the Wyld appears to be ever-so-gradually growing.
WillCoon[6:34:45 PM]: ::Skein nods at these new things::
WillCoon[6:34:54 PM]: I wonder who's responsible for these.
Moonsword[6:35:44 PM]: Given that these are Wyldfolk, I'm not sure I want to know.
WillCoon[6:36:32 PM]: It looks like we're progressing at least.
Moonsword[6:36:48 PM]: Yes.
Moonsword[6:37:10 PM]: I don't like that fact that we're attracting an audience, though.
Friv[9:38:18 PM]: In addition, the sky has changed from dark red to a purplish hue, and the Wyld border doesn't appear to be a straight line anymore; it wavers back and forth by up to ten yards, and the strange trees you noticed before are sometimes crossing over where you think the border is.
WillCoon[6:37:29 PM]: ::Skein raises his eyebrows, smiling::
WillCoon[6:37:35 PM]: Well, can you blame them?
Friv[9:38:41 PM]: It looks like the firm divide between the Wyld and Creation is gradually fading into its more usual transition the further you get from town.
Dakura[6:38:00 PM]: "We may be in some new Fae's region, as they aren't what Kizen usually has working under him..."
Moonsword[6:39:38 PM]: Would that they are more hospitable, as well.
Dakura[6:40:25 PM]: "Or at least content to only watch from the border."
Friv[9:41:36 PM]: The sun is starting to set over the western woods now, and the mountain is far, far closer. If you push on, you should reach its base within the next two hours - but it will be dark.
Moonsword[6:40:49 PM]: Yes.
Friv[9:42:02 PM]: The mountain itself certainly seems normal enough, and the borders of the Wyld continue to fade out as they approach it.
ambisinister[6:41:52 PM]: ::As the sun begins to lower, Hailey once again comes trotting out of the landscape::
Dakura[6:42:49 PM]: "Anything to report?" Tiger asks as Hailey comes up to where they are.
ambisinister[6:43:27 PM]: Some larger tree like creatures have appeared. It would seem they are...herding the smaller ones. Still no hostile movements on their parts
Moonsword[6:43:44 PM]: Are they coming closer, Hailey?
ambisinister[6:43:53 PM]: I thought I'd return and see what the situation was, as it is beginning to get dark.
ambisinister[6:44:25 PM]: They meander. I have not observed a definate shift in their location related to us
Moonsword[6:44:44 PM]: ::Valeria raises a hand.::
Moonsword[6:44:58 PM]: I'd feel safer if we put a bit more distance between us and them.
ambisinister[6:45:18 PM]: Are we making camp?
Moonsword[6:45:23 PM]: These are beings of the Wyld. The mountain seems to be at least somewhat a part of a Creation.
Moonsword[6:45:52 PM]: At the same time, I don't think it wise to march through the night, particularly with an enemy at our backs.
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ambisinister[6:47:03 PM]: What do you think, Tiger?
Dakura[6:47:56 PM]: "As would I... and I don't feel like stumbling into the Wyld in the dark... We make for the base of the mountain. We'll camp there." He turns to Hailey. "You and the scouts pull back to half your current distance. If you feel the need to get even closer to us, or even jsut rejoin, do so."
Dakura[6:49:03 PM]: "If worse comes to worse we'll set up before we reach the mountain itself."
Moonsword[6:49:27 PM]: ::Valeria nods.::
WillCoon[6:49:53 PM]: Would you like me to come ahead with you just in case we run into anything particularly dire?
ambisinister[6:50:55 PM]: It might not be a bad idea
ambisinister[6:52:31 PM]: Come here for a moment, Skein.
Dakura[6:52:33 PM]: Tiger waves Skein forward with Hailey. "Do so, then. How are the others up there faring?"
WillCoon[6:52:44 PM]: Yes?
ambisinister[6:52:52 PM]: Fine.
ambisinister[6:56:08 PM]: ::Hailey reaches out and touches his shoulder lightly. Skein can feel his connection to the essence of the Earth WillCoon[6:57:08 PM]: Thank you.
ambisinister[6:57:35 PM]: Do you wish to swap scouts again, Tiger?
Dakura[6:58:50 PM]: "If the ones up there are still good, then no. If they get tired before we reach the mountain, then have them head back."
ambisinister[6:59:47 PM]: Can do. Let's go, Skein.
ambisinister[7:00:18 PM]: ::Hailey starts off at a quick pace, but obviously slows her self to match Skein::
WillCoon[7:00:21 PM]: ::to the rest of the group:: We'll meet up with you soon!
Moonsword[7:00:49 PM]: ::Valeria nods.::
WillCoon[7:01:22 PM]: ::Skein goes along after her, watching both sides of their trail through the tainted lands::
Friv[10:02:44 PM]: As the night sets, the group continues pressing onwards.
Friv[10:03:19 PM]: The setting sun seems to be a signal for the plant-creatures as well. As the sun dips below the horizon, all of the shrubs, acting in concert, turn and shuffle back across the border into the Wyld.
Friv[10:03:25 PM]: Only the larger creatures are still watching the group.
ambisinister[7:02:43 PM]: ::heads in the direction of Tiger's troops to check up on them::
Friv[10:03:45 PM]: Soon, however, it is too dark too see those creatures either.
Moonsword[7:03:07 PM]: ::Valeria watches them go.::
WillCoon[7:03:12 PM]: Well, that's promising at least..
Moonsword[7:03:32 PM]: The fact that we can't see anything out there?
Friv[10:06:17 PM]: The stars are coming out, although you notice that over the Wyld, they are spinning and changing through a kaledioscope of colours.
Friv[10:06:31 PM]: Above you, they remain stable and solid.
Moonsword[7:06:17 PM]: ::Valeria points at the stars overhead.::
Moonsword[7:07:43 PM]: ::Valeria is using her staff to trace a few of the unfamiliar constellations.::
Moonsword[7:09:28 PM]: ::Valeria points at the three Maidens in sequence.::
Moonsword[7:09:39 PM]: Isn't it beautiful?
Friv[10:12:33 PM]: It is currently nearly a new moon, so there is little light being cast over the landscape.
Friv[10:12:47 PM]: Still, the bulk of the mountain remains visible, blotting out stars.
Dakura[7:12:13 PM]: Errant Tiger looks up at where she's pointing. "I suppose so. Never gave them much thought. Too busy worrying what was down here with us."
WillCoon[7:13:39 PM]: ::Skein comes into view, coming back too soon::
WillCoon[7:14:17 PM]: Tiger, Valeria - Hailey has noticed something troubling.
Moonsword[7:14:45 PM]: ::Valeria snaps back to her surroundings.::
Moonsword[7:14:49 PM]: What?
Dakura[7:14:56 PM]: Tiger whips his head toward Skein. "'Troubling' how?"
WillCoon[7:15:20 PM]: There's a group of those... tree things... following us.
WillCoon[7:15:23 PM]: Gathering in numbers.
WillCoon[7:15:32 PM]: Perhaps nine of them now.
WillCoon[7:15:43 PM]: They're not closing in, but they're keeping watch on us.
WillCoon[7:16:17 PM]: I just came back to warn you, so keep an eye out.
Moonsword[7:16:33 PM]: ::Nods.::
Dakura[7:16:40 PM]: "Damn..."
Moonsword[7:16:59 PM]: ::Spins her staff into a ready position.::
Moonsword[7:17:02 PM]: So what now?
WillCoon[7:17:24 PM]: L:looks to tiger::
Moonsword[7:17:28 PM]: Do you think we should turn and try to disperse them before we make camp?
WillCoon[7:17:34 PM]: If you're planning to attack, I'd like ot call Hailey back...
Moonsword[7:17:49 PM]: Or hope they're just watching travellers through their territory?
Dakura[7:18:37 PM]: "I don't like that they're increasing in numbers as we get closer to the mountain... They might just be curious, but the Wyld rarely lets such things happen by coincidence..."
Moonsword[7:18:49 PM]: ((Just throwing out options here.))
ambisinister[7:19:08 PM]: ::There is the sound of someone intentionally snapping twigs and scuffing their feet as Hailey returns to the party::
Moonsword[7:19:50 PM]: ::Spins on her heel in the direction of the sound, staff in hand.::
WillCoon[7:19:52 PM]: Hailey - are they moving?
ambisinister[7:20:06 PM]: I was on my way back to keep a closer eye on the creatures. Still just following us.
Dakura[7:20:10 PM]: Tiger nearly pulls out his powerbow at the sound, but relaxes when he sees that it's only the remaining Dragon-blood.
Moonsword[7:20:41 PM]: Following... or stalking?
Moonsword[7:21:22 PM]: Are their numbers still increasing, Hailey?
ambisinister[7:21:43 PM]: ::adopts a thinking posture:: I do not think trees have stalks...::beat:: I jest. It is hard to say.
ambisinister[7:22:04 PM]: There are now about eleven of them, and it is obvious they are aware of our location.
ambisinister[7:22:25 PM]: They have remained at about 500 yards since night fell.
Moonsword[7:22:41 PM]: They're getting closer and more numerous, then.
WillCoon[7:22:46 PM]: Hm.
Moonsword[7:22:57 PM]: Tiger, I must admit that I don't like the idea of a mob gathering at our heels.
WillCoon[7:23:07 PM]: Perhaps it would be best to demonstrate that we know they are there?
Moonsword[7:23:33 PM]: How, then?
ambisinister[7:23:42 PM]: Mayhap we should just stop and see if they continue to move or stop as well. It is a traditional and simple tactic, but effective.
Moonsword[7:23:43 PM]: A warning shot from Tiger's bow, maybe?
Moonsword[7:24:57 PM]: ::Nods.::
Dakura[7:25:43 PM]: Errant Tiger rubs his chin as he considers. "Have the scouts fall back to us. One way or another we stay here, mountain be damned. We set up camp. They come any closer, we deal with them as necessary."
ambisinister[7:26:04 PM]: I don't know how I feel about shooting arrows at them. It seems like a poor way begin communication.
ambisinister[7:26:23 PM]: I will retrieve the scouts.
Moonsword[7:26:35 PM]: I'll accompany you.
ambisinister[7:26:35 PM]: ::moves off into the dark at a quick run::
Moonsword[7:26:54 PM]: ::Follows, matching her stride for stride.::
Dakura[7:28:34 PM]: The Wood-Aspect turns to his soldiers. "Alright, time to set up for the night. I want an extra guard on watch each shift, and Dragons help you if I find you're not sleeping with your sword in hand!"
Friv[10:30:32 PM]: The soldiers salute, and start setting up tents and preparing to camp for the night.
YWillCoon[7:29:56 PM]: ::Skein stares out into the night, watching for any sign of the treedars::
Friv[10:31:01 PM]: Hailey and Valeria soon return with the advance scouts, and join the preparations.
ambisinister[7:33:18 PM]: ::Hailey goes to the edge of the camp and removes her helmet. She lets loose a sharp whistle, calling Amarranth back to the camp::
Moonsword[7:33:42 PM]: ::Valeria stops at the edge of the camp, peering into the darkness from on top of a convenient boulder, watching for the unknown creatures as she holds her staff, looking for any motion.::
Dakura[7:34:18 PM]: "I want at least one of us on each shift. Any preferences?"
Moonsword[7:34:43 PM]: ::Calls absently over her shoulder.::
Moonsword[7:34:47 PM]: I'll take first watch.
WillCoon[7:35:06 PM]: I can take second.
ambisinister[7:35:16 PM]: I can go for some time without sleep. I will take all of the watches in addition to whomever else volunteers.
Moonsword[7:35:43 PM]: Hailey, I don't think that you should tire youself out that way.
ambisinister[7:36:10 PM]: The essence of the Earth will sustain me.
Moonsword[7:36:14 PM]: ::Genuine concern on her face.::
Moonsword[7:37:10 PM]: ::Nods reluctantly.::
ambisinister[7:37:28 PM]: ::tucks her helm against her hip:: I do know the need for rest, Valeria. But these are special circumstances.
Dakura[7:37:46 PM]: "I'll take the third and fourth shifts. No one goes out past the light of the campfires without two others with them." He heads over to his own tent to get ready to have a quick meal and light sleep.
ambisinister[7:37:48 PM]: As far as I know, I'm the only one of us who can see in the dark, and that will be a great boon in this situation.
ambisinister[7:38:45 PM]: ::a small smile forms on her face when Amarranth comes padding out from the darkness and butts playfully against her legs::
Friv[10:41:54 PM]: The night passes uneventfully, at first. However, as Skein and Hailey stand watch...
ambisinister[7:41:05 PM]: ::Hailey reaches down and ruffles her ears:: How was your march, Ammy? ((pronounced ah-mee, for those who care)) Find anything interesting?
Friv[10:43:57 PM]: As the second watch progresses, Hailey notices movement among the treemen. Once there were fifteen, no more arrived, and they had stopped moving. Now, two of them appear to be approaching, without trying to be particularly subtle.
ambisinister[7:43:23 PM]: ::Hailey maintains her watch with her buckler on her arm and a few javelins jabbed point first into the earth within easy reach::
ambisinister[7:44:12 PM]: ::Hailey gently nudges Skein:: Two have broken off from the group
WillCoon[7:44:27 PM]: ::Skein nods
WillCoon[7:44:40 PM]: then stands forward, his hand near his sword::
WillCoon[7:45:01 PM]: They may wish to communicate... or they may just be unsubtle.
ambisinister[7:46:03 PM]: While we should rouse the others, I don't know if our moving back into the camp will threaten them
ambisinister[7:46:25 PM]: I'm not the best at reading people, nevermind trees.
WillCoon[7:47:02 PM]: If they make any overtly hostile moves, I can try to hold them off while you rouse the others.
ambisinister[7:47:38 PM]: Can you get a feel for their intent?
ambisinister[7:48:33 PM]: ::Hailey slips her hatchets into her hands::
WillCoon[7:49:27 PM]: ::Skein watches the two treemen
WillCoon[7:49:37 PM]: sniffing the air for pollens or sap
WillCoon[7:49:44 PM]: watching their strange limbs
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WillCoon[7:49:53 PM]: and trying to convince himself he'll be able to interpret it all into
WillCoon[7:50:00 PM]: some analysis of their intent::
Moonsword[7:51:34 PM]: ::Valeria snores softly for a moment and shifts in her sleep.::
ambisinister[7:51:48 PM]: ::Hailey slides closer to Skein, letting their arms brush against one another, she concentrates for a moment and Skein once again feels a strong conncection to the Earth:: ((reactivating AEES for both Hailey and Skein for 4m))
WillCoon[7:53:20 PM]: "Hailey. It looks likethey're holding themselves back from attacking for some reason..." Skein whispers.
ambisinister[7:53:43 PM]: As in they want to attack us but are restraining themselves for some reason?
WillCoon[7:54:21 PM]: "That's the way it seems." He shrugs, keeping a close watch on them.
WillCoon[7:54:42 PM]: Before they get too close,
ambisinister[7:55:05 PM]: ::Hailey reaches over and nudges Amarranth awake:: Ammy, go wake up Tiger.
WillCoon[7:55:45 PM]: Skein steps slightly forward, drawing his sword very carefully and as unthreateningly as possible.
WillCoon[7:56:21 PM]: He watches the treemen very closely as they approach,
WillCoon[7:56:30 PM]: and lays down his sword on the ground.
WillCoon[7:56:41 PM]: He watches them for a reaction.
ambisinister[7:57:00 PM]: ::The dog like creature rises and stretches, yawning. She then licks her chops and trots back into the camp towards Tiger's tent::
Friv[10:58:12 PM]: The treemen pause when Skein does this. For a moment, they look at Skein, and then at each other.
ambisinister[7:57:47 PM]: ::Hailey watches the Treemen watching Skein watching them::
ambisinister[7:58:55 PM]: ::Amarranth paws at the flap and makes quiet vocalizations::
Friv[11:00:07 PM]: After a few more confused seconds, the treeman on the left finally thinks to take his own club and place it on the ground. The treeman on the right stubbornly holds onto his, although he reaches up and backwards and attaches it to his back somehow.
Friv[11:00:36 PM]: The leftmost treeman speaks, his voice a gravelly rumble. "Who is your Shaper?"
Moonsword[8:00:13 PM]: ::Snores again.::
ambisinister[8:00:19 PM]: ::Hailey slips her hatchets back into their clips, but stays within reach of the javelins::
WillCoon[8:00:28 PM]: Skein smiles when they put down their weapons, then glances at Hailey when they speak.
ambisinister[8:00:52 PM]: ::shrugs:: I'm a scout, not a negotiator
WillCoon[8:01:07 PM]: "My name is Skein, and I will speak for our group."
ambisinister[8:01:19 PM]: ::Ammy paws more vigrously and makes some louder noises::
Friv[11:02:14 PM]: The treeman frowns again. "Our Lady wishes parlay with your Shaper."
Friv[11:02:24 PM]: "Are you the Shaper?"
Dakura[8:02:09 PM]: Errant Tiger wakes up quickly at the noise, and looks to the tent flap. He gets out of his sleeping bag and opens it. ambisinister[8:02:36 PM]: ::Ammy wags her tail and gestures with her muzzle in the direction of Hailey and Skein::
WillCoon[8:03:06 PM]: "If you wish to parlay, I am our mouth."
WillCoon[8:03:23 PM]: "Shaping may be discussed later."
Dakura[8:03:49 PM]: "I should have figured something would happen... I'm going..." He heads back in to grab his armor and weapons and heads towards where the dog indicates as he straps them on.
ambisinister[8:04:48 PM]: ::Ammy wags again and trots over to where Valeria is sleeping. She sniffs for a moment then licks her cheek a few times::
WillCoon[8:04:57 PM]: "We would gladly parlay with your honorable Lady."
Friv[11:05:57 PM]: The treeman considers this for a moment, and then looks to the second one. The second shrugs, and the first nods.
Moonsword[8:05:18 PM]: ::Valeria shifts and then blinks.::
Moonsword[8:05:24 PM]: Whuh..? Ammy?
Moonsword[8:05:32 PM]: ::Realizes it's still dark.::
Moonsword[8:05:43 PM]: Something's happening, isn't it?
ambisinister[8:05:48 PM]: ::Amarranth grins as only a dog can and nudges at Valeria's hand for scratching::
Friv[11:06:52 PM]: The second treeman walks backwards, towards the others. Now, Skein can see a massive form coming forwards out of the shadows.
Dakura[8:06:07 PM]: "What's going on here?" asks Errant Tiger as he approaches Skein and Hailey. He frowns as he spots the treemen.
Moonsword[8:06:41 PM]: ::Shrugs into her buff jacket and whips the staff into position before jogging over to the others.::
WillCoon[8:06:44 PM]: "They are bringing their 'Lady.' She wishes to meet with us. She wants to meet our 'Shaper.'"
Moonsword[8:06:50 PM]: What's happening?
Friv[11:07:41 PM]: Close up, it appears to be a willow tree, dark red in colour, with half of its drooping fronds coiling underneath it to create a canopy, and the other half being used as legs. It is about eight and a half feet tall, and is waddling forwards almost silently.
ambisinister[8:06:56 PM]: It would appear that a large octopus like willow tree is coming over to chat with us
Moonsword[8:07:09 PM]: Shaper? What Shaper?
Friv[11:08:23 PM]: The sound of birdsong comes from inside the willow. After a moment, you realize that it is laughter.
WillCoon[8:07:56 PM]: Skein whispers, while keeping his eyes on the Tree. "They may believe we are a Fae's retinue."
ambisinister[8:07:59 PM]: ::Ammaranth pouts when no scratching is forthcoming and lopes back over to the group to observe the situation::
Friv[11:09:19 PM]: The willow droops, lowering towards the ground. A slim, green hand sweeps aside the canopy, and the woman that was inside steps out, looking over the group. She laughs again, song echoing across the valley. "Oh, my poor dear warriors. What will I do with them?"
Moonsword[8:08:39 PM]: They might but I think the tree-lady has figured it out.
YMoonsword[8:09:07 PM]: ::Blinks.::
Friv[11:10:04 PM]: The woman is about six feet tall, with green skin that is patterned with leaves and ivy. Her clothing appears to be made entirely of grass and ferns, and melds into her skin in places.
Friv[11:10:18 PM]: Her eyes are a brilliant hazel, and her hair is the same shade of red as the willow tree.
Moonsword[8:09:26 PM]: Allow us to pass freely as we have brought no harm to your people or your land?
ambisinister[8:09:41 PM]: ::Hailey crouches down beside Ammaranth, paying extra attention to her companion::
WillCoon[8:09:51 PM]: "Greetings. How may we address your honored self, fair lady of this moving forest?"
Friv[11:10:47 PM]: The woman laughs again, reaching out and running a finger down the side of the treeman. "Oh, not you. Them." She shakes her head. "Warriors are loyal, but frightfully dull."
Dakura[8:09:56 PM]: Errant Tiger runs a hand through his hair and his frown deepens. "Well I doubt that impression will last long," he murmers back. He steps forward in front of Hailey and Skein, facing the woman. At Valerie's words his hand shoots out, cutting her off.
Friv[11:11:36 PM]: The lady pauses, waiting to see which of the Dragon-Bloods will take the lead.
WillCoon[8:13:43 PM]: Skein's smile is strained, but he steps beside Tiger, and looks quizzically at the Lady.
WillCoon[8:14:24 PM]: "May I introduce Errant Tiger."
Dakura[8:14:51 PM]: Seeing that the other Dragon-bloods are stepping back, the Wood-Aspect steps forward. His weapons are sheathed and stored, but he stands at attention as he looks at the Fae in front of them.
Friv[11:15:55 PM]: The lady inclines her head to Tiger and smiles again, letting him speak first.
Dakura[8:16:34 PM]: "As he says, I am Lieutenant Errant Tiger, leader of this group." He bows once. "Might I inquire as to your own name, and your reasons for wishing to speak with us?"
Friv[11:18:39 PM]: The lady's smile widens. "I am called Nezini, the Unblooded." She tilts her head, and looks over the group. "In truth, I did not find what I expected."
Friv[11:19:21 PM]: "My Warriors informed me that a group was moving southwards through the Scar. They implied that it was a new war party of Kizen's; I came to see if he had finally noticed me."
Friv[11:19:43 PM]: "Now, however, I am far more interested. From whence did you fly, earthbound ones?"
ambisinister[8:19:16 PM]: ::Hailey files away that they were traveling south::
Moonsword[8:19:55 PM]: ::Valeria's eyes narrow at the new bit of information... and she makes a mental notet to break out the long underwear.::
Dakura[8:21:15 PM]: "We come from northward, along the... 'Scar', as you call it, Nezini the Unblooded. We have no affiliation with Kizen Thrice-Masked, though he is in control of the lands that surround our point of origin."
Friv[11:23:36 PM]: "Hm." Nezini considers this for a moment. "So, he has been hiding mortals all this time. Amusing. No wonder his domain was hit so hard."
Moonsword[8:23:17 PM]: ::Valeria's eyes light up in curiosity but she manages to restrain herself from blurting out a question.::
Friv[11:24:36 PM]: "So, if you are no minions of his, what does bring you here?"
Friv[11:25:16 PM]: She settles back with another arch smile. The way that she is looking you over is uncomfortably remeniscent of someone studying wares in a shop.
Dakura[8:27:28 PM]: "We were sent to discover where the Scar leads to, and if we can use it as a passage back to Creation. We do not know what caused it, but it has had an effect on some of our number at the time it formed." He quirked an eyebrow. "I take it that it that the event had more of an effect than just forming this region?"
Moonsword[8:27:39 PM]: ::As her acquisatorial gaze sweeps over Valeria, the Ivory Dragon's grip becomes tighter. It's clear she doesn't like Nezini's manner.::
Friv[11:29:42 PM]: The lady laughs again, with the sound of nightengales and crows mixed together.
Friv[11:29:52 PM]: "Oh, you don't know? That is just so... precious."
Friv[11:30:14 PM]: Her laughter cuts off as abruptly as it started, and her expression turns dark.
Friv[11:30:29 PM]: "Oh, yes, little soldiers. Our World is broken forever."
ambisinister[8:29:45 PM]: ::Hailey stares intently at her feet for a moment::
Friv[11:30:55 PM]: Her expression turns impish, then, all traces of her momentary anger vanishing. "I can't wait until my siblings arrive."
WillCoon[8:30:45 PM]: Skein looks significantly at Tiger.
Moonsword[8:31:08 PM]: ::Valeria's grip on her staff shifts slightly, getting ready to stunt an attack at Nezini.::
Friv[11:32:21 PM]: And then she sighs, and reverts to the mild interest she was showing to begin with, and tilts her head the opposite way. "But none of my family affairs are of interest to you, are they? You wish to pass further into Creation?"
Friv[11:32:36 PM]: She shrugs. "For now, I have no objection. In the long run... well, we shall see."
ambisinister[8:32:01 PM]: ::Hailey remains apparently impassive behind the mask of her armor::
Moonsword[8:32:23 PM]: ::Valeria relaxes slightly. Very slightly. About a micron.::
Dakura[8:33:50 PM]: He bows again. "Thank you for not barring our way for the moment. Might I ask if your kin are likely to extend the same leniency?"
Friv[11:35:17 PM]: For some reason, Nezini finds that comment hilarious. For a few moments, she can't do anything except laugh.
Friv[11:36:01 PM]: Finally, she manages to gasp out, "When they finally arrive, they will be far too furious for any leniancy." She continues to giggle, bringing herself under control. "I can't wait to see how they react to being Bound."
Friv[11:36:30 PM]: "But never fear, you have time yet."
Dakura[8:37:42 PM]: Errant Tiger frowns at Skein as the other man speaks up.
Friv[11:38:59 PM]: The lady steps backwards, as the willow reaches out to pick her up and carefully set her back inside. "Well, enjoy your journey to Creation." She pauses briefly. "If I might ask, how long have you been in Kizen's domain?"
Dakura[8:40:06 PM]: "Some time. We are not exactly sure how much, due to the nature of the Wyld. We have rough ideas of it being a number of decades or more."
WillCoon[8:40:07 PM]: Skein smiles sweetly and defers to Tiger.
Friv[11:42:37 PM]: The lady nods thoughtfully. "Oh, Kizen, you and your toys." She shakes her head, lowering her voice conspiratorially. "I've never quite understood the fascination. Quite frankly, I'm just as happy to be rid of you. Ironic, I suppose, under the current conditions, but there you have it. Still, I may keep a leaf opened and watching for your return."
Friv[11:43:04 PM]: With a dainty wave, the curtain of willow closes around her.
WillCoon[8:43:26 PM]: Skein glances around at the others, who also presumably have very little idea what's going on.
Friv[11:44:23 PM]: And the whole affair starts perambulating backwards, with the treemen following, still watching you suspiciously.
Dakura[8:43:51 PM]: Tiger bows again as she disappears into the tree's branches. He then turns back to the other dragon-bloods and waves them back towards the camp.
Moonsword[8:44:21 PM]: ::Valeria's returning the favor as far as watchful suspicion goes.::
ambisinister[8:44:43 PM]: ::Hailey looks down to Ammy and asks in a quiet voice:: Well Ammy? What do you think, was she being honest with us?
Moonsword[8:45:19 PM]: ::Valeria watches until they're a goodly distance away before jogging to catch up to the others.::
ambisinister[8:46:35 PM]: ::Hailey listens intently to the sounds and body language of her companion:: Can't say I'm all that surprised, it's in their nature to bet that way, right?
Moonsword[8:47:39 PM]: ::Valeria glances over at Hailey when she catches up.::
WillCoon[8:47:48 PM]: Skein raises an eyebrow at this dialogue, then looks up at the moon to gauge how much night remains.
Dakura[8:47:49 PM]: "We leave at first light. I want us gone from here as soon as possible. She said we have time, but Dragons know how much or if she even told the truth. I do not want to be here when a bunch of angry Fae come." He waved down two soldiers that were on watch that shift, and whispered some orders to them.
ambisinister[8:47:50 PM]: Well, things could have gone worse. ::She reaches down and ruffles Ammy's ears:: Let's go join the others.
Moonsword[8:48:05 PM]: Agreed.
Moonsword[8:48:21 PM]: ::Reaches down to rub the dog's ears when the pair comes over.::
Dakura[8:48:36 PM]: "As for you..." He turns to Skein after speaking with the soldiers, an angry look on his face.
ambisinister[8:48:37 PM]: ::Approaches Tiger:: She was keeping something important from us, but nothing she said was an outright lie.
WillCoon[8:49:26 PM]: "Yes, Tiger?" replies Skein pleasantly.
Moonsword[8:49:26 PM]: ::Discreetly edges away from the male Dragon-Blooded before the ass-chewing can begin in earnest.::
Dakura[8:52:47 PM]: "I don't care if you are our effective diplomat. You do _not_ just speak out like that unless I have said you can. Especially when we're dealing with a Fae Lord! We have no idea what she's after, and I will not have her gaining more of an interest in us than she already has just because you want to try your hand at being charming! Especially if I'm already speaking."
Dakura[8:54:29 PM]: "You'll get your chance, but right then was not it."
aWillCoon[8:54:33 PM]: "Tiger. We will not survive out here if you insist on undermining me to feed your own sense of self-importance. I am the diplomat, I started the negotiations, and I presented myself as the one speaking for our group. You were asleep. You /cannot/ berate me for unprofessionalism unless you hold yourself to the same standards."
WillCoon[8:55:55 PM]: "I will not question you on the battlefield,
WillCoon[8:56:09 PM]: and I expect the same consideration in return."
Dakura[8:57:14 PM]: "This is a military operation, Skein. Not a diplomatic one. While you can put yourself forward as spokesman, that ends once I arrive or am somehow incapacitated."
Dakura[8:59:00 PM]: "If I need you to do the talking, I'll say so."
WillCoon[11:58:05 PM]: "Are you really going to insist on treating anyone we encounter as an enemy combatant?"
WillCoon[11:58:42 PM]: "That's not how these things work, Tiger. You cannot /begin/ with hostilities. You /begin/ with negotiations."
Dakura[9:00:55 PM]: "Considering that we're still in the middle of the Wyld, and that there were armed warriors on the other side looking antsy, I'd say hostilities were about equal on both sides to begin with."
WillCoon[0:00:08 AM]: "And that is why I am the diplomat, and you are the soldier."
Dakura[9:02:18 PM]: "Fae do not do diplomacy unless they plan to trick you or stab you in the back."
ambisinister[9:05:07 PM]: "Lieutenant, if I may respectfully interject..."
WillCoon[0:04:07 AM]: "Apparently I have been lax in my lessons. Fae /never/ negotiate. Of course."
WillCoon[0:05:09 AM]: He stops, and looks over at Hailey expectantly.
Dakura[9:06:41 PM]: "Not unless they can gain something substantial they don't." He looks at Hailey, and nods briefly for her to speak.
ambisinister[9:08:47 PM]: "Skein has recieved training from the diplomatic corp. This is an area where he is skilled. You have recieved training from the Legion, combat and the command of troops are an area where you are skilled. When martial trouble arises, we would all default to your skill...could not the same be said for Skein in situations that fall within his specialty?"
WillCoon[0:08:38 AM]: Skein smiles, tilts his head to the side, and raises his eyebrows at Tiger.
ambisinister[9:10:08 PM]: "While Skein should respect the chain of command, it would be waste to not use his skills."
Dakura[9:11:24 PM]: "And I will default to him when there aren't upwards of a dozen armed Fae looking at us like we'd make nice crunching noises, and over half my men are asleep."
ambisinister[9:13:23 PM]: ::nods, and looks over at Skein:: Don't think me totally in your camp. If the Lieutenant decides that a given situation is one where it would not be best to employ your talents, then you should defer to his choice.
WillCoon[0:12:33 AM]: Tiger, these situations require my judgement. When the fae charge and attack, then you can think with your sword all you like. Until then, I need you to trust me.
WillCoon[0:14:01 AM]: "If you can promise me that, I will defer to your orders."
WillCoon[0:14:11 AM]: "You see, Tiger...
WillCoon[0:14:42 AM]: it was precisely /because/ we were surroudned by armed fey that the diplomatic solution was preferable to battle."
WillCoon[0:14:55 AM]: "Such situations require a delicate touch."
Dakura[9:16:54 PM]: "I can only say that I will let you _advise_ on situations like this at the very least. You may _not_, however, just cut in directly as you did there."
WillCoon[0:16:38 AM]: "With all due respect, Tiger, /you/ cut in when I was handling the situation. If you feel that such action is inappropriate, then you cannot exempt yourself."
Dakura[9:19:45 PM]: "I feel that as the appointed leader of this expedition, I should be present or at least properly alerted before you take hand at negotiations."
WillCoon[0:19:11 AM]: "That wasn't possible, Tiger. You were asleep, and I had to act."
WillCoon[0:19:26 AM]: "In future, if I alert you beforehand, will you be content to let me do my job?"
Dakura[9:22:30 PM]: "I would have preferred being woken by someone who can at least speak and tell me what was happening, rather than just whine loudly. If I am alerted beforehand, you may do so, but do not think either that you have full authority over such situations."
WillCoon[0:22:09 AM]: "And do you also agree that if you are unavailable I will be forced to continue without you?"
ambisinister[9:23:19 PM]: We established that it may have seemed threatening for either of us to withdraw, which is why I sent Ammaranth.
Dakura[9:25:32 PM]: "If I am unavailable, yes. Merely being asleep and still able to be woken up does not quite cover it." He turned to Hailey. "And if one of you withdrawing would have seemed threatening, what makes sending your familiar less so?"
ambisinister[9:26:28 PM]: Amarranth is far less noticeable than either of us
ambisinister[9:27:59 PM]: The tree men were still a few hundred yards off at the time
WillCoon[0:27:36 AM]: Skein nods.
ambisinister[9:28:58 PM]: And finally, Amarranth was not on watch with us, she was simply asleep nearyby
WillCoon[0:28:45 AM]: "Now, Tiger, I think we should probably get some rest. We still have a ways to go tomorrow. If you have more to ask me, further discussion will benefit from sunlight and rest. Agreed?"
Dakura[9:30:44 PM]: "Perhaps, but the fact remains that I want to know about these things _before_ blindly walking right into the middle." He closes his eyes and runs a hand over his face. "Look, I grant that you both have points, but I have to maintain my standing as leader and the rights and responsibilities therein."
ambisinister[9:30:50 PM]: I will remain on watch with Amarranth and Tiger's men. Skein, you may rest if you feel the need.
ambisinister[9:31:29 PM]: Understood, Sir.
WillCoon[0:31:54 AM]: Skein nods again.
WillCoon[0:33:09 AM]: "I'm going to catch a little rest. If the last watches require aid, feel free to wake me."
ambisinister[9:35:19 PM]: I will.
WillCoon[0:35:03 AM]: Skein smiles. "Thanks, Hailey."
Dakura[9:36:15 PM]: "Hopefully it will be quiet..." Errant Tiger shakes his head, as if hoping he hasn't just jinxed it. "It's nearly third shift, so I'll be staying up. Need to plan for when we start moving again..."
ambisinister[9:37:00 PM]: As a side note, sir, Amarranth informed me that we have a clear shot to the mountain, no Wyld or camps between us.
ambisinister[9:37:31 PM]: In fact, there was a disconcerting lack of anything at all
Dakura[9:37:34 PM]: "Good, good... though who knows what we may find there..."
Dakura[9:38:25 PM]: "I'd like to be the only pessimist here, if you don't mind."
WillCoon[0:38:09 AM]: Skein retires to his tent, and awaits the morning.
ambisinister[9:39:51 PM]: I'll let Ammy know, Sir.