FrivYeti/DragonsS3IC

Back to the chronicle

---

CHATLOG - SESSION 3 - IC COMMENTS ONLY

Friv[8:28:26 PM]: Anyway, IC. When last we left our soldiers, they were camped out in the shadow of a mountain, with the Wyld on two sides.
Friv[8:30:24 PM]: The night passes uneventfully, without even the chirp of crickets or birdsong to disturb the silence.
Friv[8:32:20 PM]: Presumably, Sesus Skein is safely inside his salt circle, although some of the men might find it disturbing that he requires a salt circle to sleep in...
ambisinister[5:31:30 PM]: ::Hailey busies herself making coffee or tea for her waking companions::
Moonsword[5:31:47 PM]: ::Valeria is already awake::
Friv[8:33:59 PM]: As morning dawns, the sun shining surprisingly bright and clear, you see that the borders of the Wyld land have changed; now, great bramble hedges mark the exact spot at which the Wyld ceases to exist.
Friv[8:34:07 PM]: You aren't quite sure which side of the border they're on.
Moonsword[5:33:04 PM]: ::Valeria, being raised by Haven's premier sorcerer, knows better than to disturb a circle without understanding what would happen.::
Friv[8:34:29 PM]: Aside from that, however, everything is as you left it the night before.
ambisinister[5:33:21 PM]: Morning Val. Something warm?
Moonsword[5:33:54 PM]: ::Valeria frowns thoughtfully and then nods.:: "Yes," she answers in her soft voice.
Dakura[5:34:06 PM]: Errant Tiger is awake (having been unable to return to sleep), and currently talking quietly with one of the mortal soldiers who is doubling as a scribe to begin a rough map from Scarlet Haven outward, hopefully towards Creation proper.
willcoon[5:34:17 PM]: ::Skein wakes from an unrestful sleep, breaks his circle, and gathers such salt as he can reuse.::
ambisinister[5:34:43 PM]: :: Hailey smiles and passes over a mug of ((insert val's preference that Haily would know from their friendship))::
willcoon[5:35:00 PM]: Good morning everyone. How do things look by the light of day?
Mambisinister[5:35:21 PM]: The night passed uneventfully.
Moonsword[5:35:22 PM]: Valeria sips her coffee and frowns at Skein.
Moonsword[5:35:57 PM]: "Companion," she starts once he is close enough to clearely understand her whispered voice, "why do you sleep within such a ward?"
willcoon[5:36:58 PM]: Valeria, I do this for all of our safety.
willcoon[5:37:35 PM]: I have ... not been the same since my Second Breath.
ambisinister[5:38:00 PM]: ::Hailey move to the edge of the camp and sits down. Amaranth trots over and Hailey leans against her warm fur::
willcoon[5:38:02 PM]: I sleep fitfully. Thanks to the ward, that is all.
Moonsword[5:41:04 PM]: Valeria looks at him searchingly and steps close, perhaps closer than Skein might prefer.
Moonsword[5:42:23 PM]: Looking up to meet his eyes, her voice is even softer than usual. "Why, Sable Dragon, do you have many problems with the dead?"
willcoon[5:42:24 PM]: :: Skein blinks uncomforably, moreso at the scrutiny than at the proximity ::
ambisinister[5:42:48 PM]: ::Hailey enjoys another brief moment of rest against her companion and then stands, slowly stretching. She picks up another mug and moves across the camp to Tiger:: Good morning, Sir. Coffee?
willcoon[5:44:25 PM]: Skein lowers his eyes, and his voice. "Not with the dead, Valeria. The circle is for me, for my spirit."
willcoon[5:44:42 PM]: "With the circle in place, it torments only me."
Moonsword[5:45:28 PM]: Valeria cocks her head slightly, considering the answer. "Your spirit hungers? It seeks release?" she asks, confused.
Dakura[5:45:31 PM]: "Thank you" Tiger says, absently taking the mug. He confers for a few moments more with the mortal soldier he had been talking with, and then lets the man head back to his other duties. "Any thoughts on what we're likely to find at the mountain, Brightdawn?"
ambisinister[5:46:39 PM]: Not really, even the Wyld has receded from the area, it's still Blighted land and the nature of the Blighting will remain unknown to us until we get there.
ambisinister[5:47:09 PM]: With any luck there we will continue to avoid mutated predators.
willcoon[5:47:28 PM]: "Indeed. I pray that it does not find it. It is my lower soul alone, my po, and it terrifies me."
willcoon[5:47:44 PM]: "You understand that this is a somewhat delicate matter...?"
willcoon[5:48:27 PM]: "Please, it is not a pleasant thing for the worst of one's soul to be extruded and scrutinized."
Moonsword[5:48:39 PM]: Valeria frowns thoughtfully. "Of course. Be wary, though, Sable Dragon."
ambisinister[5:48:56 PM]: ::Haily pauses and appears lost in though for, as if contemplating something that just occured to her. After a moment she whistles softly, calling Amaranth over.::
Dakura[5:49:11 PM]: "True... But I doubt it will be completely devoid of habitation. A significant-looking place like that..." He shook his head. "I can't imagine that there not be _something_ there."
Moonsword[5:49:44 PM]: She catches your eye, her irises now stark, cold black jade. "If it is released, I will not hesitate to lay it low."
willcoon[5:49:48 PM]: Skein shakes his head, smiles sadly. "I have no other choice."
ambisinister[5:49:55 PM]: Ami, I want you to make a quick circuit of the camp and see if any of those tree creatures are nearby. Be careful.
ambisinister[5:50:21 PM]: ::Amaranth smiles a wolfish smile and then lopes off quietly into the surrounding area::
Moonsword[5:50:23 PM]: "This is not a threat. Merely a warning. Be wary and I will aid you as I can."
willcoon[5:50:42 PM]: He looks up at this, and there is a glimmer of something in his eyes, like a movement beneath dark waters. "I could ask for no less. Thank you."
Moonsword[5:50:52 PM]: She sighs and shakes her head, looking at something that isn't there. "I have my own curses, be they less burdensome than yours."
ambisinister[5:50:59 PM]: We have seen stranger things in our lives. With any luck it will not be the home to a Fae noble.
Moonsword[5:52:01 PM]: "Your secrets are yours alone. Save dire peril, so they will remain," Valeria assures him softly, placing her hand on his shoulder.
Moonsword[5:52:16 PM]: "On this, you have my word."
willcoon[5:52:54 PM]: Skein hesitates before placing his hand on Valeria's. "Thank you."
Dakura[5:53:17 PM]: "That I would doubt... or at least that it is currently home to one," Tiger replied. "Here within the corridor, where the Wyld is weak? I doubt one would find it comfortable enough to stay in."
willcoon[5:53:33 PM]: He blinks and glances suddenly towards the other Blooded.
ambisinister[5:55:26 PM]: Speculation aside, there is, of course, only one way to find out. ::she smiles slightly and looks over at the mountain::
Dakura[5:55:27 PM]: Errant Tiger frowned, taking a swallow of the coffee. "Point taken..."
willcoon[5:55:54 PM]: Skein, appearing somwhat uncomfortable, replies "I hope for a chance to repay your kindness."
willcoon[5:56:38 PM]: He casts about, and gestures towards the others.
Moonsword[5:56:48 PM]: Valeria looks at him as if she can't really understand his discomfort. "I suggest you come and get some coffee, Sable Dragon. Today will be a long march and we'll all need to be awake. We are too close to the Wyld as it is..." she trails off.
Dakura[5:57:00 PM]: "We'll find out soon enough, then, considering how we could have gotten there in the night had we continued onward rather than camping."
ambisinister[5:57:23 PM]: ::Amaranth trots back into the camp and sits at Hailey's feet. After a lazy moment spent stretching, she begins grumbling and barking in a quiet stream of sound. Hailey looks and listen intently::
ambisinister[5:58:27 PM]: Amaranth was unable to locate any of the creatures from yesterday nearby. Although the swath of Blight beside us is hedged in by dense plant growth that Amaranth was unable to see, smell, or hear through.
willcoon[5:58:46 PM]: "Perhaps I should. We might speak later...? Except that for now -" his voice drops "- I imagine there is insufficient dissent for us to be getting anywhere. We should return to the others."
Moonsword[5:59:29 PM]: She glances at him, confused. "Dissent...?"
willcoon[6:00:50 PM]: He smiles. "Perhaps you're right, I'll temper my opinion when I offer it to our leader."
Dakura[6:01:23 PM]: "Wonderful..." He shook his head. "While Nizeni said that she would not take action against us at the present..." He trailed off for a moment.
willcoon[6:02:03 PM]: Skein raises an eyebrow at the hedges.
willcoon[6:02:38 PM]: "It's awfully... /convenient,/ isn't it?" he says to no one in particular while getting his coffee.
Moonsword[6:03:12 PM]: "The Fey?" Valeria asks, spitting the last word.
ambisinister[6:03:17 PM]: Unless you have some means of flight, the best we can do is move quickly and alertly. At least with such a well defined corridor it will be difficult for anything to sneak up on us...that is unless it can pass through the brush unhindered
Dakura[6:04:04 PM]: Tiger sighed, and gulped down the rest of the coffee. "Considering the nature of the local fae, I would not doubt that at least some of them could."
willcoon[6:05:51 PM]: Skein takes a swig of coffee and spins back towards the group, regaining his full composure midspin.
ambisinister[6:05:58 PM]: ::Hailey finishes her coffee as well, then collects Tiger's mug:: We'd best be moving, I think. No sense in dawdling. willcoon[6:06:36 PM]: "Excellent! What's our plan, then? We march until we hit something?"
ambisinister[6:07:47 PM]: Or until something hits us. :: Her face is deadpan::
willcoon[6:08:32 PM]: "... True enough, but we can hope for the former, can't we?"
Dakura[6:09:42 PM]: "Hope may not be quite enough." Errant Tiger headed back towards his tent. "I want everyone ready to move out within a quarter hour!" he shouted to the troops as he walked.
willcoon[6:10:15 PM]: He looks around at the others, then goes to get his things together.
Moonsword[6:11:00 PM]: Valeria shifts her staff into her hands, looking at the others.
Moonsword[6:11:08 PM]: "Shall we be off, then?"
willcoon[6:11:45 PM]: "Yes, let's."
ambisinister[6:11:56 PM]: ::Hailey locks her helm into place and looks at the others:: No time like the present.
ambisinister[6:13:13 PM]: ::She turns with a grace at odds with her heavy armor and begins to trot ahead of the group, Amaranth keeping pace::
Friv[9:11:23 PM]: The soldiers quickly pack up the camp, eager to continue moving, and the group resumes travelling. Within two hours of marching through this uncomfortably desolate wasteland, you reach the edge of the mountains. The hedge has petered out, but the Wyld seems to be gradually petering out as well; the trees may have blue pines and glowing pinecones, but they look like trees, and the sky is normal. The corridor itself is picking up traces of greenery; patches of grass and even the occasional bush now dot it. ambisinister[6:16:10 PM]: ::Hailey rejoins the others:: Well, now that we're here, do we atempt to attain the sumit or try and skirt around?
ambisinister[6:20:48 PM]: In my professional opinion I think we should stay in the scar until we reach creation.
Dakura[6:21:25 PM]: Tiger looked off into the distance, where the edge of the mountain pushed into the Wyld. "I'd prefer to avoid heading into the Wyld as long as we can. If need be, we will, but if we can avoid it..."
ambisinister[6:23:49 PM]: After basic training, the hike up the shoulder should be insignificant
willcoon[6:25:27 PM]: Skein looks up, and at his companions with their fancy-schmancy climbing experience, then shrugs, and follows them up the mountain.
ambisinister[6:28:19 PM]: ::She studies the terrain ahead:: The corridor is clear, and the sight lines are all direct. If it's all right with you, Sir, I'd like to move ahead of the group and get to the summit of the scar to see what lies on the other side of the moutnain.
ambisinister[6:28:32 PM]: You should be able to see me the whole time.
Dakura[6:28:53 PM]: "We go over," Tiger finally decided. "It will slow us down, but so would going around the base of the mountain. We go up until we can go around without hitting Wyld."
willcoon[6:30:14 PM]: Skein smiles at Tiger's decisive proclamation, and follows along the corridor.
Dakura[6:31:21 PM]: "I don't want anyone going near any caves or holes, should there be any. We can investigate if there appears to be a reason, but no one will go in alone in such a case."
ambisinister[6:32:24 PM]: ::looks at Tiger, her body language expectant::
ambisinister[6:34:06 PM]: ::Hailey kneels and scoops up a handful of earth and focuses on it a for a brief moment before setting off:: Friv[9:42:57 PM]: As the group starts upwards, the mountain becomes increasingly green, with pine trees starting to appear amongst the grass and rocks.
Friv[9:43:14 PM]: In addition, faint mountains can now be seen in the distance, to the west and east. You're almost certain they weren't there before.
Moonsword[6:42:21 PM]: Valeria frowns, looking around.
Moonsword[6:42:37 PM]: "Is this..." she starts, shaking her head, "is this Creation?"
ambisinister[6:47:54 PM]: ::Hailey vanishes over the shoulder of the mountain for a moment, then reappears, waving::
willcoon[6:48:06 PM]: Skein is taking in the view as he climbs, somewhat quieted by the sight.
Moonsword[6:48:22 PM]: Valeria jogs up to her.
Dakura[6:48:25 PM]: Errant Tiger looks behind them, back down the way they had come from. Was the whole view like this now, or just what was before them?
Friv[9:50:19 PM]: Directly behind, you can still see the Blighted corridor stretched backwards. However, you can see faint mountains far to the southwest and southeast.
willcoon[6:50:04 PM]: Skein increases his pace to reach the crest, eager to see the other side.
Dakura[6:51:18 PM]: Shaking his head, wondering if Creation was really only this close to Scarlet Haven, Tiger had one of the higher-ranked mortals take command while he sped up to see what the other Dragon-Blooded were looking at.
Friv[9:54:18 PM]: As the Dynasts speed ahead, they reach the summit where Hailey is standing. They can see mountains on all sides; it looks like there are dozens of passes in every direction, and there is no sign of the Wyld at all. Behind you, the corridor still stretches, you assume, but it isn't distinguishable from the surrounding area.
ambisinister[6:54:19 PM]: We're here everyone. This is Creation.
Moonsword[6:54:44 PM]: "But..." Valeria whispers softly, "where are we?"
ambisinister[6:54:51 PM]: ::Hailey looks up from some charts and inks that she spread out on the ground at her feet. It looks like she has been recently working on them::
willcoon[6:55:08 PM]: Skein just looks around for a time. He clears his throat. "Does this look like anything on the maps?"
ambisinister[6:55:38 PM]: It's hard to say. Once night falls I may be able to take a better stab at our rough location once i have the stars to reference.
ambisinister[6:57:19 PM]: ::She finishes marking the chart, makes some notes in a ledger, and then begins to pack things up while the ink dries.:: Though I can't say for sure where we are, I know i'll be able to find the correct route back to Scarlet Haven from here.
Dakura[6:57:37 PM]: "Any ideas, in that case? There can't be mountain ranges like this in too many places."
ambisinister[7:01:13 PM]: ::loosens a map case from her pack and pulls out the copy of the map she recieved from Haven::
ambisinister[7:02:24 PM]: ::Hailey studies the map, then looks around, then studies the map some more::
ambisinister[7:09:49 PM]: My best guess, at this moment is that we're somewhere around here...::indicates a point on the map:: Which means the closest friendly territory is...
Moonsword[7:10:23 PM]: Valeria looks down at the map.
Moonsword[7:10:40 PM]: "I wonder why we emerged so far from the Wyld..." she muses.
ambisinister[7:11:22 PM]: This town here...Palliton. Let's hope the borders have not changed to drastically since this map was drafted.
willcoon[7:12:28 PM]: "Excellent. How long do you think before it will come within sight?"
ambisinister[7:12:29 PM]: With any luck they will be able to direct us to a current satrapy capitol.
ambisinister[7:13:27 PM]: According to the map, it's about 75 miles, give or take through hilly terrain. A day's travel for the group to put it in sight, two days to reach it.
Friv[10:14:48 PM]: The soldiers have rejoined the group now, and are staring about in wonder.
ambisinister[7:13:48 PM]: I can easily make it to the town in a day.
Moonsword[7:14:25 PM]: Valeria looks over at Hailey. "Old friend, I think it wiser to stick together at this moment."
willcoon[7:14:31 PM]: "I think it would be best to stay together for when we make first contact."
ambisinister[7:15:06 PM]: As eager as I am to explore, I think you may be right.
Dakura[7:15:26 PM]: "We stay together, at least for the moment," Tiger agreed with Valeria and Skein. "Just because this is Creation is no reason not to be cautious."
Moonsword[7:16:03 PM]: "As I recall, Creation itself held dangerous enemies. The Anathema were spawned here," Valeria notes softly.
ambisinister[7:16:45 PM]: ::looks down at the map and ftuzes around with an architects compass. It would appear she is plotting routes::
ambisinister[7:18:13 PM]: :: she spends some time calculating, oblivious to the others::
willcoon[7:18:47 PM]: Skein looks between the mountain range and the calculations with interest, trying not to get in the way.
ambisinister[7:20:36 PM]: Sir? If I could get you to look at the map. It seems like the quickest route will be to go along this ridge here. Assuming the terrain isn't terribly different, the ridge should help to shelter us from the environment. In addition we should be able to find some fresh water here, here, and here....
ambisinister[7:21:33 PM]: I can't speak for game or local plants and the like, but it will be easy enough figure out once we begin to travel.
ambisinister[7:23:41 PM]: Valeria, are there any conclusions you can make about the more...spiritual aspects of this route?
Dakura[7:23:45 PM]: Tiger looked at the map over Hailey's shoulder. "Yes... Well, as far as I'm aware the landscape doesn't change much in Creation, so that path should still be viable..."
Moonsword[7:25:21 PM]: Valeria shakes her head, distracted by a sudden minor headache but unwilling to voice her irritation.
Dakura[7:28:35 PM]: "We'll have to make do with what we may encounter, then." He turns to the soldiers. "Enough gawking. We can relax our guard somewhat, but once we begin moving again stay alert." He turned to Hailey. "Once you're ready to start blazing the trail...?"
ambisinister[7:30:36 PM]: I'm always ready sir. ::she offers a lazy salute and begins to pack up her things quickly and efficiently::
Dakura[7:36:43 PM]: Errant Tiger, less tense now that they seemed to really be in Creation proper, was able to pay more attention to the surroundings themselves, rather than looking for anything concealed within. With the plant and wildlife being stable in shape and nature, it was easier to determine what was what, barring any ignorance from lack of exposure.
Friv[10:41:38 PM]: The company continues its advance, following Hailey's map of the ridgeline. However, after about two hours, Hailey - still scouting ahead - notices plumes of smoke about five miles south. They don't look large enough to be trouble, but could definately be chimneys. ambisinister[7:42:03 PM]: ::Hailey trots back to the party.::Have the rest of you noticed the smoke?
Moonsword[7:42:27 PM]: Valeria nods, her face serious and intent.
willcoon[7:43:09 PM]: Yes, have you found the source?
ambisinister[7:43:12 PM]: It looks like it could be chimney or camp fires...but we shoudl still be six or seven hours from being able to even see Palliton.
ambisinister[7:44:09 PM]: I can head in for a closer look, if the rest of you would like.
Dakura[7:44:11 PM]: "It is possible that we were closer than we thought... or that another town was founded since our map was made."
willcoon[7:44:12 PM]: Skein looks to the others. "If it is a camp, perhaps we should increase our pace?"
Moonsword[7:44:22 PM]: "Perimiter scouts? Raiders? An invasion force?" Valeria opines, watching teh smoke.
Dakura[7:45:36 PM]: "You and Skein go ahead to the smoke. Stay cautious, but if it seems peaceful try to see what you can find out. We'll follow along and wait a distance from the source for a few hours."
willcoon[7:46:41 PM]: Skein looks at Tiger somewhat curiously, then nods. "Certainly. I'll be glad to!"
ambisinister[7:47:16 PM]: Skein, I will accompany you in case there is trouble, but as I have a relatively hostile appearance, I will remain unseen and let you do the talking if such a thing is neccessary.
willcoon[7:49:29 PM]: "Thank you, Hailey. Let's move out then, I'm eager to make contact with the people of Creation..."
ambisinister[7:49:55 PM]: ::Hailey leaves her pack and other cumbersome gear behind, then moves to shadow Skein::
ambisinister[7:50:37 PM]: ::As she departs she signals with her hand and Amaranth stops in her tracks, pouts and then sulks over to Val for some attention::
willcoon[7:52:18 PM]: "So what do you think, Hailey? How do you think the Realm has changed over all this time?::
ambisinister[7:52:36 PM]: ::As Hailey moves her armor blurs into broken, sliding patterns of light and dark, making her outline fuzzy at just a few paces away::
ambisinister[7:53:29 PM]: I am hoping that it is the same Realm that Mr. Ujiro loved and served.
ambisinister[7:54:08 PM]: If such a place could produce someone like him, then I would very much like to see it as he did.
ambisinister[7:54:26 PM]: I am prepared to be disappointed.
willcoon[7:56:10 PM]: "Don't speak too soon! However, it is said that conflict begets strength... we shall see what we shall see..."
willcoon[7:57:15 PM]: "Surely you won't be staying too far back, will you? You must be eager to meet the people of this land."
ambisinister[7:58:22 PM]: ::There is a reluctance to her voice:: Eager...perhaps. For prudence sake, I shall remain obscure for this meeting. There will be time enough once we know what is going on.
Dakura[7:59:17 PM]: As Hailey and Skein go on ahead, Errant Tiger begins leading his soldiers in the same direction, though at a less hurried pace. He keeps an eye on the trails of smoke reaching up into the sky, determining what would be a safe but close distance for them to pause at.
Friv[11:01:03 PM]: The smoke trails are close to an hour's hike for Skein, although Hailey could have covered it in half that time. By the time they approach the smoke trail, they are passing from the mountains to the north into the hilly regions southwards, with scattered fir and birch trees everywhere. As they approach the smoke trails, they find that someone has cleared the forest around the area, leaving farmland not unlike that at Scarlet Haven, if simpler and less well-maintained. A few minutes away, they can see wooden cottages and a gravel path. There are people tilling the fields, but not very many.
Moonsword[8:00:44 PM]: Valeria moves forward a dozen yards before the column but then stops advancing, looking around and ready to intercept anything that moves towards the group.
ambisinister[8:01:48 PM]: ::As Hailey moves she focuses on her anima, feeling the currents of the air, letting them buoy her steps and guide her body. Focusing she finds places of absence int the air, and uses this knowledge to help project and aura of obscurity::
Friv[11:03:13 PM]: The villagers look poor, and are clearly northern locals; their pale skin and hair in shades of blonde and brown marks them as natives. They are still working, but are also gradually turning to watch Skein, looking to see if he is continuing past or pausing.
willcoon[8:03:49 PM]: Skein moves towards the farmers slowly and calmly, a faint mist surrounding him as he approaches. The light catching the water droplets makes him glisten and shimmer.
willcoon[8:04:58 PM]: "Greetings. I am Sesus Skein, ESable Dragon of Sesus Ujiro's Legion."
willcoon[8:06:22 PM]: "I have traveled far. Tell me, where is the satrap of this region?"
Friv[11:07:47 PM]: The farmers have stopped working and watch Sesus approach. After he speaks, one of them speaks in return. "Shamas? Yurez Tal kalazkin. Shomas vennar?"
willcoon[8:09:51 PM]: Skein smiles dismissively. "No matter. Show me to a Dragon-Blood." He gestures around, pouring essence into the air around him in as egregious a manner as possible.
Friv[11:13:12 PM]: Most of the farmers cry out in surprise and immediately prostrate themselves, while one near the back goes racing off towards the town, presumably to summon someone in authority.
willcoon[8:12:54 PM]: "Splendid."
willcoon[8:13:43 PM]: Skein follows Jed at a stately pace, hoping silently that someone knows Realm in these parts...
ambisinister[8:14:18 PM]: ::Haiely settles in to observe from the edge of the village::
Friv[11:16:09 PM]: Skein sees which building Farmed Jed runs into and heads towards it, arriving just as its inhabitant exits in some haste.
Friv[11:17:07 PM]: He is a middle-aged man, quickly belting on a ceremonial robe of some sort, stitched with five colours of thread - white, red, blue, green, and black. His hat, tall and square, doesn't quite fit him, and when he sees Skein and quickly bows, it very nearly falls from his head. Only a quick grab saves it from landing in the dirt
Friv[11:17:41 PM]: In accented High Realm, he addresses Skein, his eyes fixed firmly on the ground. "M-most humble greetings from this servant, O Exalted One."
willcoon[8:17:33 PM]: He looks down at the villager, smiling. "Please, Rise. Are you the representative of this village, then?"
Friv[11:19:22 PM]: The man straightens, keeping his eyes fixed down. "Yes, Banner Of Heaven. I am this village's Interpreter."
willcoon[8:20:02 PM]: Skein is enjoying this. "Excellent. I am Sesus Skein, Envoy of the Scarlet Haven."
Friv[11:22:11 PM]: This catches the Interpreter's attention, and he looks up enough to watch Skein's chest. "Ah... I am sorry, Most Exalted One. I do not know that place."
willcoon[8:22:07 PM]: "I am here on a matter of great importance. Do you have a current map of the Satrapy? Where might I find the overseer of this region?"
Friv[11:24:12 PM]: The Interpreter starts looking nervous. "Satrapy? I do not know the word. Is it the daimyo that you are seeking?"
willcoon[8:25:43 PM]: Skein's eyes narrow at this. "Yes, I believe it is. Come, tell me of this region. I am unfamiliar with these lands."
Friv[11:27:48 PM]: "Ah... of course, Exalted One." The interpreter gestures towards his house. "Would the lord care to partake of this humble servant's hospitality? It is unlikely what one such as yourself is useful, but it may serve."
willcoon[8:27:46 PM]: "Certainly. Lead on. Only allow me a moment."
ambisinister[8:28:03 PM]: ::Hailley considers for a moment, then steps out from concealment, silent as a specter. She heads towards Skein, moving with what she hopes is a predatory aloofness::
willcoon[8:28:19 PM]: Skein turns back towards where Hailey is waiting.
Friv[11:29:48 PM]: Hailey's appearance causes nearby farmers to jump in startlement, and back away from her precipitously.
ambisinister[8:29:05 PM]: ::She directs her armor to shift in a disconcerting fashion::
willcoon[8:29:42 PM]: Skein nods at her appearance, then turns to enter the house.
ambisinister[8:29:45 PM]: Shall I get the others, Envoy?
willcoon[8:30:23 PM]: "I think perhaps we should return with some token of this land.
willcoon[8:30:50 PM]: Come, enter with me. Perhaps this man has a useful map, or might direct us to the... Daimyo of this region."
ambisinister[8:31:48 PM]: ::Hailey nods and falls into step behind Skein::
Friv[11:33:32 PM]: The interpreter hurries into the cottage ahead of Skein. It is clean, but very simple. A few wooden chairs and a small set of shelves make up one room, while the second contains a pantry and small iron stove. In the back, you see a small bedroom, with a bed and a desk, and possibly a closet; it's hard to tell from this angle.
Friv[11:34:51 PM]: The Interpreter hurries to the kitchenette, bowing again. "Would the Envoy or his companion like tea? Or fruit?"
willcoon[8:34:14 PM]: Skein turns to Hailey, amused.
ambisinister[8:34:34 PM]: ::Hailey says nothing, allowing her armor to match texture and hue with the wall behind her::
willcoon[8:34:41 PM]: "We shall have tea, Interpreter.
willcoon[8:35:46 PM]: Also, I would see your maps, such as you have."
Friv[11:37:24 PM]: The interpreter nods, and brings out a pair of china cups, and draws a kettle from a shelf, filling it with water from a bucket next to the counter. Muttering a few words under his breath, he holds his hands to the kettle; in a matter of moments, it is whistling merrily, and he pours into the cups. "Of course, Exalted One, but I fear our maps are rude and local."
Friv[11:37:35 PM]: "You could likely find much better in Mela's Bounty."
willcoon[8:37:44 PM]: "I am certain they will serve us well. Perhaps you could indicate the location of the Daimyo?"
Friv[11:39:29 PM]: The Interpreter nods, bringing the tea into the main room and placing it on the table in front of Skein and Hailey. "Of course, Exalted One. It would be my honour."
willcoon[8:38:57 PM]: Skein takes his cup, contemplates it for a moment, and inhales the scent of the boiling leaves.
willcoon[8:39:18 PM]: He takes a sip.
Friv[11:40:56 PM]: The tea both smells and tastes different than that back in Scarlet Haven; it is certainly stronger, but also has more layers of taste.
Friv[11:42:42 PM]: The Interpreter stands, having placed the tea, and speaks. "The Exalted One had questions about this area. How can this servant be of aid?"
ambisinister[8:42:20 PM]: ::Hailey ignores the tea and turns the her gaze so that the unreadable crystaline visor of her helm is focused on the Interpreter::
willcoon[8:42:51 PM]: Skein looks at his tea for a moment before responding. "I am looking for the Exalted authority of this land. You said you had a map..?"
Friv[11:45:42 PM]: "Ah, yes. Of course." Turning, the Interpreter walks to the shelves, and opens a drawer. Searching through rolled-up scrolls, he comes out with one, returning and placing it back on the table. "Here you are, your lordship. This realm is Mela's Bounty, commanded by the Daimyo Yukong.
ambisinister[8:45:04 PM]: ::Hailey looks down at the map, mentally comparing to the one she left in her pack::
Friv[11:46:19 PM]: He hazards, after a moment, another comment. "You must have travelled long not to have heard of it, my lord."
Friv[11:47:02 PM]: The map itself, unfortunately, covers only about a hundred miles to a side, but is rather more detailed than Hailey's. However, all of the notations on the map are in Snowtongue.
Friv[11:47:45 PM]: She's fairly sure that she can make out the topographical notes, as well as markings representing cities and towns. Most of the area is also contained within a large blue line that stretches around the bulk of the map, bordering a red line to the west.
Friv[11:48:10 PM]: The topography seems to suggest that she was right about where in Creation the company is.
willcoon[8:47:18 PM]: Skein smiles through the coil of steam rising from his cup. "Indeed we have. The tongue of this region is foreign to us. Would you note for us the Daimyo's location?"
willcoon[8:47:52 PM]: "Also... what manner of Daimyo is this Yukong?"
Friv[11:49:23 PM]: "Of course, Exalted one." The Interpreter takes a step forwards, pointing to a city marked near the centre of the map, on the border of a large lake. A river runs southeast from the lake. "This is Mela's Bounty, the capitol."
Friv[11:49:49 PM]: He pauses, frowning slightly. "I'm not sure I understand your question, Exalted One. He is the daimyo, one of the Princes of Earth."
willcoon[8:49:53 PM]: "I imagine you think him a fair ruler?"
Friv[11:51:53 PM]: "Of course, Exalted One, although it is not the place of any mortal, even an Interpreter, to question the ways of the Exalted." Friv[11:53:19 PM]: Meanwhile, the army continues to approach. They're probably not more than about this distance back, so they can see the clearing up ahead.
willcoon[8:52:10 PM]: Skein nods. "Naturally. Now, I have another question before I depart for the capitol."
Friv[11:53:45 PM]: The Interpreter nods again, keeping his gaze fixed down. "This servant will endeavor to aid you."
ambisinister[8:52:40 PM]: I've seen and heard all I need to, Envoy. I will be returning to the column.
willcoon[8:53:31 PM]: "Please, summon them, for we move for the capitol. I shall join you momentarily."
ambisinister[8:54:08 PM]: ::Hailey nods to Skein and then sets off for the party::
willcoon[8:54:34 PM]: "Now, Interpreter, as a point of curiosity, who shall our records say was the first to greet us in Mela's Bounty?"
Friv[11:56:19 PM]: The Interpreter colours. "This one is named Jassas Marn, great one. You honour him by asking."
ambisinister[8:55:29 PM]: ::Moving at an unrestrained speed, she quickly reaches Tiger and the others::
Moonsword[8:55:53 PM]: Valeria watches her approach with interest.
Moonsword[8:56:34 PM]: As she comes within earshot, Valeria's soft voice whispers, "What village is this?"
willcoon[8:56:37 PM]: "You have aided us immensely, Jassas Marn. My thanks to you."
Friv[11:58:11 PM]: "It was my pleasure to aid you, Exalted One." The interpreter bows low again.
Dakura[8:57:04 PM]: "I assume things went well?" Tiger asked.
ambisinister[8:57:07 PM]: ::she slows down to a walk and slips off her helmet as she closes the last couple steps. SHe runs a gauntleted hand through her hair:: Their...elder didn't say
ambisinister[8:57:29 PM]: There is a language problem, although their elder can speak the high tongue.
Moonsword[8:57:38 PM]: Valeria raises an eyebrow but waits for more information.
willcoon[8:58:23 PM]: Skein gathers the map, and returns his teacup. "Farewell, Interpreter. You have served the Dragons well. Their blessings upon you."
ambisinister[8:58:27 PM]: Long story short, what amounts to the satrapy capitol is about thirty miles to the east. We should be able to find one of the Dragon Graced there.
ambisinister[8:58:57 PM]: Skein should be back momentarily, he will better be able to speak of the people of this place that I
Friv[0:00:16 AM]: The Interpreter remains bowing until Skein leaves, with a proud smile.
willcoon[8:59:00 PM]: He turns and departs, sweeping back towards the main party.
Moonsword[9:00:09 PM]: "Dragon... graced...?" Valeria asks, confused.
ambisinister[9:00:54 PM]: It's another name for the Exalted I learned back at home. I think it's kind of old and didn't see a lot ofuse.
ambisinister[9:01:02 PM]: I like the sound of it though.
Moonsword[9:01:22 PM]: Valeria nods. "An interesting term, true."
willcoon[9:02:01 PM]: Skein returns triumphantly to the party, presenting the map and indicating the capitol city.
ambisinister[9:02:26 PM]: The attitude of the people towards Skein, and even myself was....very different
Dakura[9:03:05 PM]: "Howso?"
ambisinister[9:03:58 PM]: You are aware of Colonel Maddar's thoughts on how mortals and the Exalted should interact?
ambisinister[9:04:43 PM]: Like that, but even more severe. It was...like they revered...and feared us.
willcoon[9:07:03 PM]: "My companions, it appears that much has changed in our absence."
Dakura[9:07:26 PM]: "So, Skein. Hailey says that you have a bit more insight into the situation with the people than she does?" Tiger said as he looked at the map the Water-Aspect was carrying.
Moonsword[9:08:03 PM]: Valeria rolls her eyes at the very _idea_ of that sort of behavior.
willcoon[9:09:09 PM]: "I see you have told them of the Interpreter's attitude towards us?"
willcoon[9:09:17 PM]: "Quite intriguing."
willcoon[9:09:39 PM]: "However, he also mentioned something that gave me pause.
Moonsword[9:10:02 PM]: "Oh?"
willcoon[9:10:47 PM]: See, here on the map. This is the capitol city of the region, Mela's Bounty. The Interpreter indicated that the authority of the region is the Daimyo Yukong."
Dakura[9:11:13 PM]: "A 'Daimyo'?"
willcoon[9:11:27 PM]: "Apparently there has been a great shift in the political makeup of the Realm."
Moonsword[9:11:39 PM]: "Daimyo? The term is familiar, old, but familiar..." Valeria muses.
ambisinister[9:11:44 PM]: Or this region to say the least.
willcoon[9:12:03 PM]: "Daimyos were once the rulers of regions of the realm, answerable to the Shogun. Naturally, the Empress abolished the system."
willcoon[9:12:18 PM]: "This is quite an intriguing development."
Moonsword[9:12:42 PM]: "As I recall, it was the Contagion and the Fair Folk who abolished the system," Valeria comments dryle.
Moonsword[9:12:50 PM]: "The Empress processed the paperwork."
willcoon[9:13:11 PM]: "However I think it clear that we must speak with this Yukong, and learn of the events leading to this shift of power."
Dakura[9:13:15 PM]: Tiger nodded. "Somewhat worrying... What about Mela's Bounty? If it's the captital, then it would have to be either well-established and then should have been on our own map, or the country itself is young."
willcoon[9:13:35 PM]: "... well said, Valeria."
ambisinister[9:14:05 PM]: Skein let me see the map so I can compare it to ours.
willcoon[9:14:21 PM]: Skein hands her the map.
willcoon[9:14:36 PM]: "Also... we should make sure to note the interpreter in our records. His name is Jassas Marn."
ambisinister[9:15:04 PM]: ::she pulls out her own map and compares the two, trying to locate Mela's Bounty on her map first, and then filling in what details she can make out from the foreign map::
Friv[0:17:45 AM]: Most of the cities on the new map are not on Hailey's, including Mela's Bounty. However, two of the three cities noted on Hailey's map that are within the area of this one are there - Palliton and Saraver.
Friv[0:18:09 AM]: A third, however, is missing; the first map has it about 80 miles north of Palliton, while the new one just notes a forest on the spot.
ambisinister[9:17:37 PM]: Hrm..it would appear that a not insignificant amount of time has passed since the Legion entered the Wyld.
willcoon[9:17:43 PM]: "Indeed, we have no idea what may have occured in the Realm since Ujiro was forced into the Wyld. Mela's Bounty lies about thirty miles from here."
ambisinister[9:17:50 PM]: Look at all of the differences...
willcoon[9:18:29 PM]: "Hmm... quite odd. "
ambisinister[9:18:46 PM]: Well, it would seem that the best course would be to head to Mela's Bonty, it is likely there is even a crude path or trail we can travel to reach it
willcoon[9:18:52 PM]: "A forest..? I wonder..."
Dakura[9:19:01 PM]: Tiger did so, comparing the two maps. "So... it may be that time went somewhat differently in Creation than it did in Scarlet Haven..."
ambisinister[9:19:01 PM]: ::she scans the smaller map::

And so, they went to Mela's Bounty, and into the next session.