Ye Olde Adventure Worlde session 53

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Summary

May takes Faire and Marcus to speak to the Rucina. Induriel hosts an evening with Minye Tulca in support of the city's continued independence, where he unexpectedly encounters Ettelëa Camellia. Eyllia speaks with Big Aengus and makes a deal for her own people. Laris begins to coordinate the defense of the territory with various allies. Korivan deals with the Yalta Naru.

Session

Session date: 2020-02-09

In Game date:

May speaks to Lanwa of the Rucina

<YOAW_Narrator> May, Marcus, and Faire can make their way further north into the mountains with a guide provided by Yula, seeking out the Rucina.
* May will try not to complain too much about the walking.
* Marcus will try to help May with the terrain without seeming patronizing.
<Faire> This is bringing back a few memories.
<May> Good or bad?
<Faire> Mostly good. I've spent a lot of time in the wilderness, believe it or not.
<May> You mentioned that. There was talk of nymphs, I believe.
* May grins.
* Faire can't really blush, exactly, but is trying his best.
* Marcus smiles.
<Marcus> I'm sure your trips were very educational.
<Faire> I mean, I did learn a lot of magic...
<May> Is that what the kids are calling it these days?
* Faire trails off, pausing and looking around.
* Marcus sees the look on Faire's face and steps to the other side of May, putting himself in the direction Faire is looking.
* May cocks her head.
* NPC3 is now known as Voice
<May> Everything ok?
<Faire> Do you sense that? Something magical...
<Voice> Who are you and what are you doing here?
* Voice echoes in chorus around you, with no discernible source.
<May> I am Mamitu Lalu, of Nesu Abamatu. These are my companions, Fairë Roanne of Aethreenar and Marcus Castus Zorika of Thantopolis. We are seeking the Rucina. We wish to speak. We are here in peace.
<Voice> And what business do you have with the Rucina?
<May> We bring a warning of an mutual threat and an offer of mutual aid.
<Voice> You may make camp and wait here. The certacarin may deign to speak with you.
<May> Thank you. We will wait. But please know that time is of the essence.
<Marcus> Well, I guess we should find a good spot? I have some concerns about defensibility.
* Faire nods.
<Faire> I can try to hide us.
<Faire> Though I guess they do need to find us again.
<May> No, we want them to know we're here. Marcus, do the best you can with camp. Faire, we're going to see what we can find out about this area magically.
<YOAW_Narrator> They'll both nod.
* Marcus and your guide with start setting up camp.
<Faire> What're you thinking?
* May would like to try a scrying ritual to scan the surrounding area.
<May> We were told they respect magic. I figure it can't hurt to have a look around.
<YOAW_Narrator> (Scanning for what, and how?)
<May> (For magic and for settlements. I'm not too sure as to how but maybe some kind of astral projection?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (That works.)
<YOAW_Narrator> I forget. Is it Knowledge I usually make you roll for your magic?
<May> (Ussually for a ritual it's knowledge to find it and will to carry it out.)
<May> (If I remember correctly)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Okay, roll me Will for now)
<YOAW_Narrator> (We'll say you know a ritual)
* Faire will aid May with her ritual.
<May> !roll 8d6
<May> !roll 8d6
<Faire> (Maybe just roll some there and tell me?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Or a dice roller or whatever)
<May> (25)
<YOAW_Narrator> May and Faire sketch out a salt circle on the ground, placing censers at the proper places, lighting incense. At the proper time, from the center of the circle, May inhales the fragrant smoke and exhales her spirit. She finds her consciousness looking down at her body and Faire, carried aloft on divine wings. As she looks around, she can see the woods are alive with magic and spirits, many of them more curious than afraid.
* May will rise a bit higher and look for any large concentrations of magical energies.
<YOAW_Narrator> (Roll me Awareness)
<May> (7)
<YOAW_Narrator> May can get a good look at the surrounding area. Off to her northwest, she thinks she sees a glimmer of magical energy.
<YOAW_Narrator> Stronger than the background of the surrounding woods.
* May will float off in that direction, beconing Faire to follow and marveling at the forest spirits and her surroundings as she goes.
* Faire needs to stay at the circle, acting as an anchor for May's spirit.
<May> (Ahh, scratch that then)
<May> <To Faire> I think I see something to the northwest. I'm going to check it out.
* May will try to keep an eye out for any magical traps or defenses.
<Faire> <spell>Be careful.
<YOAW_Narrator> Roll me Awareness again
<May> <spell> Hey, I'm always careful.
<May> (12)
<May> <spell> except when I'm not.
<YOAW_Narrator> May can move closer to the energy source. As she gets closer, she notices there's a sort of veil over the area, a thick fog that obscures light and magic within. It forms a sort of hemisphere over the area.
* Ashnabis_Narrator (Laris@d24-55-209-79.home4.cgocable.net) has joined #gnomeland
* Laris (Laris@d24-55-209-79.home4.cgocable.net) Quit (Ping timeout: 198 seconds�)
* Ashnabis_Narrator is now known as Laris
* May will do a few circles around the dome, seeing if there's anything to see.
<YOAW_Narrator> After the third circle around, May will come upon another astral form, an elf on a shining steed, waiting in midair for her.
* Voice is now known as Elf
<Elf> Mamitu Lalu?
<May> Yes. Whom do I have the honor of addressing?
<Elf> Lanwa. I speak for my people, the Rucina.
* Elf is now known as Lanwa
* May will bow, or as much as she can in astral form.
<Lanwa> Some might consider this intrusion impolite.
<May> I'm not sure what you mean. We were told to wait at the camp and I can assure you that's exactly where I'm waiting.
* Lanwa smiles.
<Lanwa> What is it you wished to speak to us about?
<May> There is a danger rising in the south of our city. We have been told by several oracles and they all agree. This region is in danger. A house of old Turath believes itself to be the heir to the empire and feels they have the right to conquer this whole land. My companions and I have banded together our forces to oppose them. We wish to seek your aid and counsel in defeating them.
<Lanwa> That was wise of you.
<Lanwa> You say this Turathi house is a danger to us all. Why does it pose a danger to you?
<May> Because I protect my city and it is in their path. I am Turathi by birth, but the empire is dead. I feel no need to continue living in its shadow.
* Lanwa nods at that.
<Lanwa> What are *your
* plans for this land?
<May> I want what is best for my people. To me that means friendship and alliance with our neighbors. Trade and prosperity. Everyone seems to think that the only way states can exist is as subservient vassals or as enemies. I'm working towards something better than that.
* Lanwa looks skeptical, but is listening.
<Lanwa> What does that mean for my people?
<May> There is much an alliance with Nesu Abamatu can offer you. Access to trade ports and foreign goods, for one. Martial and magical aid for another. Knowledge flows through trade as well. We have access to the magical traditions of three empires and many local tribes.
<Lanwa> So I've heard. Roime had counseled against contact, but I admit I'm curious.
<Lanwa> What do you need of us?
<May> Whatever aid you can offer in the coming fight, magical or otherwise. It's a fight that will effect us all. We spoke to Roime before coming here. She stopped short of fully supporting our cause but gave us leave to seek you and her other allies out for ourselves.
* Lanwa nods.
<Lanwa> Word was sent ahead.
<Lanwa> I cannot commit my people on your word alone. I will send an emissary with you. They will judge the situation and my decision will be made then.
* May will nod.
<May> Of course. Thank you.
<May> And may I say, I love your... dome. It's very well worked.
* Lanwa smirks.
* May will point downward.
<Lanwa> Perhaps I can explain the working to you someday, if we survive.
* May smiles.
<May> I'd like that.
* May will depart then and report everything back to her companions.

Induriel's party gets crashed

<YOAW_Narrator> I believe Induriel was supposed to plan a symposium sympathetic to Nesu Abamatu's independence? ;)
<Induriel> (As opposed to being subsumed by the Green Legion, yes...)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Heh, yes)
<YOAW_Narrator> While the keep was determined to be a bad place for it, luckily Induriel does have some connections in the city. Minye Tulca would be happy to host a soiree for Induriel and whatever luminaries he hopes to invite.
<Induriel> (What luminaries *should
* I invite? Valtheriel, whom would you recommend?)
<YOAW_Narrator> She would draw up a list, but Minye herself provides a solid counterpoint to Ione Melda.
<Induriel> (Very good!)
* Marcus is now known as Minye
<Minye> I cannot say again how flattered I am to be able to provide a venue for your dinner, Ambassador.
* Minye will say to Induriel as guests begin arriving.
<Induriel> I am most grateful for it. I do hope it is not too much of an imposition.
<Minye> Of course not, perish the thought. I am happy to be of service.
* Induriel nods
<Minye> Nesu Abamatu must remain a staunch ally of the Queen, and this upstart legion is unlikely to continue that tradition.
<Induriel> (btw, I want to be sure that our program includes useful suggestions for things the Green Legion could be doing...)
<Induriel> Yes. I hope they can be steered in a more useful direction than the one they presently pursue...
<YOAW_Narrator> (How do you mean?)
<Induriel> (Basically things they could do other than subjugating Nesu Abamatu. :P )
<YOAW_Narrator> (Heh, fair enough. Thoughts?)
<Induriel> (Well, are there other areas they could be securing? Basically it's unreasonable to expect us to hand everything over to them without demonstrating that they deserve it.)
<YOAW_Narrator> (I mean, theoretically, they could be securing anywhere, but Nesu Abamatu is stable, and they think it's part of the Empire.)
<YOAW_Narrator> (They're looking for a base, same as House Lalu was.)
<Induriel> (Currently they're working for the snakemen, though?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Ostensibly, yes)
<Induriel> (But they serve a claimant to the old throne - where is that person based, then?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (With them. He's the leader of the Legion.)
<Induriel> (Ah. :/ )
<Induriel> (But their plan is to use NA as a base for re-conquering the old Empire?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Or to build a new one, yes)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Though, technically, y'all have no actual indication they're headed this way.)
<YOAW_Narrator> (You have premonitions and suspicion.)
<YOAW_Narrator> (But nothing concrete)
<Induriel> (Well, I'll play to my current audience at least, then. We can take the tack that the peaceful expansion of trade is the way to go, not military adventurism.)
<YOAW_Narrator> (*nod*)
<YOAW_Narrator> Roll me Persuasion. :)
<Induriel> (If the Green Legion comes up, we'll speak of them in friendly terms, but as allies rather than masters to be followed.)
<Induriel> (Good thing I just raised it, eh? :P )
<Induriel> !roll 4d6
* Korivan rolls for Induriel: [ 4d6 ] getting [ 1 3 4 5 ] for a total of [ 13 ].
<Induriel> (Hmmph. I bit below average...)
<YOAW_Narrator> Induriel can make the rounds, trying to soothe concerns here and raise spirits there.
<Induriel> (I'll get my more charismatic aides and supporters to do the same...)
<YOAW_Narrator> At length, he comes upon a party attendee he did not expect, and he's sure was not on the guest list.
* Faire is now known as Ettelea
<Induriel> (Dammit. :( )
<Induriel> Ah... Ettelëa.
<Ettelea> Ambassador Antalanon.
* Ettelea nods her head respectfully.
<Induriel> I see you decided to attend. How are you finding it?
<Ettelea> It is a lovely gathering, and I quite agree with the sentiment.
<Ettelea> I fully support Nesu Abamatu's continued self-governance.
<Ettelea> But I was hoping to speak with you privately, if possible.
<Induriel> Ah. Of course.
* Induriel has finished his rounds, so he has no excuse to say no. :/
<Induriel> This way, then?
* Ettelea will follow where he leads.
* Induriel leads her to a part of the inner courtyard where they will not be overheard.
<Induriel> So, we should be able to speak here without interference, I think.
* Ettelea nods.
<Ettelea> I apologize for attending; I know you do not want me here.
* Induriel waves his hand in a gently dismissive gesture
<Induriel> Not at all.
<Ettelea> But I felt this was more surreptitious than meeting you at the keep, and I would like this meeting to go largely unremarked.
<Induriel> Officially I could not invite you; but I think this is a cause we can all support.
<Ettelea> I came as a guest of Tyur Ango, who thinks I'm here to court his trade contacts.
* Induriel makes a mental note of that name. :(
<Ettelea> But I wanted to talk to you about my sister.
<Ettelea> And the Queen's cousin.
* Induriel frowns
<Induriel> Ah.
<Ettelea> Yes.
<Induriel> How is Lócë?
<Ettelea> Well, though not precisely happy at the moment.
<Induriel> I see.
<Ettelea> I have no authority to send her home, but I've enlisted our companions in keeping her confined to our lodging at the moment while I decide what to do.
* Induriel nods
<Ettelea> Lord Eren is on his way back to Aethrennar for the moment, I believe?
<Induriel> Well. That is a question...
<Induriel> Yes.
* Ettelea sighs.
<Ettelea> Is there any chance he's planning to stay there?
* Induriel stifles a sigh of his own.
<Induriel> I do not believe so. His plan was to return there for a while, then return in time.
<Induriel> He did not mention all his motives, it seems. :/
* Ettelea nods.
<Induriel> I think you may have more insight into this situation than I do... what is there between them?
<Ettelea> I wish I could say it was merely infatuation, but Ettelea seems set on pursuing...whatever this is.
<Ettelea> (loce. rather)
* Ettelea sighs again.
<Ettelea> You and I both know Eren Brescia's reputation.
* Induriel coughs quietly
<Ettelea> This is beyond foolish.
<Induriel> I fear so. But in truth, Lord Eren did not mention this to me at all.
<Induriel> I do not know what his true intentions are.
<Ettelea> Nothing? Nothing to your cousins? I know they're close.
<Ettelea> I know you're loathe to share information, but we're in much the same predicament here.
<Induriel> My cousin and my nephew. Not that I know of; but then, I haven't broached the subject with them.
* Ettelea nods.
<Induriel> Lord Eren may have been keeping this entirely to himself. If so, I'm not sure what that portends.
<Ettelea> I'm going to write home and do my best to have Loce recalled, but she seems loathe to consider her duty thus far...
<Induriel> What does Lócë expect of him, if I may ask? Has he made promises to her?
<Ettelea> She won't say.
<Ettelea> But I suspect she believes they will build a life here, somehow.
* Induriel raises an eyebrow at that
<Induriel> I... well. That seems unlikely to me.
<Induriel> I am sorry; I do not wish to see your sister suffer personal pain.
<Ettelea> Nor I for Lord Eren.
<Induriel> I can only tell you that Lord Eren has not raised the issue with me. I don't think he even knows that I know, yet.
* Ettelea nods.
<Ettelea> Very well.
<Ettelea> I just wanted to broach the subject to you.
* Induriel nods and sighs
<Ettelea> In this particular instance, I suppose we are allies.
<Induriel> We should at least keep the lines of communication open.
* Ettelea nods.
<Induriel> If Lord Eren does mention this to me when he returns, I may get a better idea of his intentions.
* Ettelea nods.
<Ettelea> I will inform you if I learn anything else.
<Induriel> Thank you, Ettelëa. I hope we can resolve this situation without too much heartbreak for your sister.
* Ettelea smiles weakly.
<Induriel> Who knows? Perhaps Lord Eren truly is smitten. Lócë certainly has many fine personal qualities.
<Induriel> If so, that will represent an entirely different sort of headache for us...
<Induriel> But we shall see, all in good time.
* Ettelea nods and will take her leave.
<YOAW_Narrator> Induriel will notice that she excuses herself from the party shortly thereafter.
* Minye is now known as Aengus
* Induriel will continue to chat with various attendees, and makes a point of finding Tyur Ango so he'll know him by sight in the future.

Look Grahm, she was listening!

* Aengus will take Eyllia, Meghan, and Lysa deeper into the swamp. You get the sense that he's taking you on a bit of a circuitous route, though he'll chat amiably the whole while.
* Eyllia is happy to chat as well
* Eyllia uses the opportunity to learn more about the Curadh and thier history
<YOAW_Narrator> Eventually, they bring you to a camp on a small promontory overlooking a bend in one of the many streams and rivers of the area. Alligators, many of them quite large, sun themselves on the strip of riverside, with a few floating serenely in the water nearby. Aengus jumps out among them to pull the boat up onto the shore.
<YOAW_Narrator> (The Curadh are an old, old verbeeg tribe. According to them, they settled here after a battle between the gods, when the Mire became their patron.)
<Aengus> Right then, watch yer step. They won't bite, less we tell them to.
<Eyllia> That's good. Had some bad relations with a much bigger one.
* Aengus frowns at that, but leads the way.
* Eyllia will hop out, but will still be weary of the beasts
<YOAW_Narrator> There's a rough stone path hewn or worn into the side of the rocky hill. Aengus leads you up it, calling out to various Curadh he sees on the way.
<Aengus> Oy, you lot, run and tell my father he has guests.
<YOAW_Narrator> A couple of Curadh children run off up the hill towards a large tent.
* Ettelea is now known as Big_Aengus
* Big_Aengus will step out to greet you about the time you reach the large tent.
<Big_Aengus> Aengus, what're you doing bringing Imperials here?
<Big_Aengus> We'll have to kill 'em all now.
* Big_Aengus is perhaps a bit shorter than his son, still roughly eight and a half feet tall. He's older, but still quite sturdy-looking.
<Aengus> No, Da, they're guests for true. They've come to talk to yeh.
<Big_Aengus> All right, all right.
<Big_Aengus> Well, talk.
<Eyllia> (just trying to gauge how this guy is... he's coming across hostile, but is it an act?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Roll Awareness)
<Eyllia> (empathy?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Yeah)
<Eyllia> !roll 5d6
* Korivan rolls for Eyllia: [ 5d6 ] getting [ 4 1 1 5 5 ] for a total of [ 16 ].
<Eyllia> (15+6 is 21)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Yeah, he's just blustering)
<Eyllia> Neither myself or my companions are Imperials, as you see to call everyone, so there is no need to kill anyone right now... although I don't deny there are Imperials out there.
<Eyllia> It's the threat of Imperials that brought me to you.
* Big_Aengus shoots you a skeptical look.
<Eyllia> I'm here because Roime gave my friend Māmītu Lalû permission to seek the aid of those in Amanya Hatal to fight a rising threat.
<Big_Aengus> We're not Amanya Hatal.
<Eyllia> Are you not some of the largest and strongest warriors in this land?
* Big_Aengus can't help but grin.
<Big_Aengus> That we are, lass, but you corrected me in calling you an Imperial. We're not Amanya Hatal. We're the Curadh.
<Eyllia> Fair enough. I'm sure the Curadh and Amanya Hatal enjoy some relations. We're seeking allies, not to anger one side by favouring the other. The Bael Turath threat is real.
<Big_Aengus> And what does Nesu Abamatu want from us?
* Eyllia gives a slight smile
<Eyllia> partners in the fight that is coming.
<Aengus> Looking for partners, eh?
<Eyllia> You are strong, who wouldnt want you to help in the fight?
* Aengus winks at Meghan.
<Big_Aengus> Flattery isn't the way here, little one, though I appreciate the effort.
* Big_Aengus sighs.
<Big_Aengus> Come in and tell me more about this threat.
* Big_Aengus turns and goes into his tent, holding the flap open.
* Eyllia will accept the invitation
<Big_Aengus> What exactly are we talking about here?
* Big_Aengus will settle on a bearskin on the floor.
* Eyllia will explain as best she knows.
<Eyllia> (just so I dont have to type out all the details, which I may not get exactly correct)
* Big_Aengus huffs out a breath.
<Big_Aengus> That's...a lot to deal with.
<Big_Aengus> What does it mean if we help?
<Big_Aengus> In the long run.
<Big_Aengus> I don't want to help you now and end up like Iaga next year or the year after.
<Eyllia> Turning on you afteward would be a good way to ensure that Nēšu Abamātu dies shortly thereafter, as nobody would stand with them again
<Eyllia> so if its securty you are looking for, I think that is handled... but what is it you want?
* Induriel is now known as Veznara
* Korivan is now known as Daifan
<Big_Aengus> Steel.
<Big_Aengus> Plain and simple.
<Eyllia> even to an ally, steel isn't free. What would you give for it?
<Big_Aengus> Hides. Lumber. Your city consumes a lot.
<Eyllia> Nēšu Abamātu isn't my city. My people are allied to them, as they are in our best interest, and seeing Nēšu Abamātu fall is not.
<Big_Aengus> So you can't promise me anything?
<Eyllia> One of the assests my people do have is steel.
<Big_Aengus> Oh ho?
* Eyllia smiles
* Eyllia will hand him her blade still in the sheath.
* Big_Aengus takes it and pulls it out to look at it.
<Eyllia> It may not measure up to the size you're used to, but if you have an eye, you'll know the quality
<Big_Aengus> I'm a big enough man to admit I have only so much experience, but this looks like a fine piece of work to me. It'd make a fine eating knife for my daughter.
* Big_Aengus grins as he says this.
* Big_Aengus puts the sword back in the sheath and hands it back.
* Eyllia takes it
<Big_Aengus> Who are your people, then?
<Eyllia> We are the Genasi, far from our exiled home of Ahkas.
<Big_Aengus> Wanderers, then. You're planning on making this your home?
<Eyllia> We have found islands off the coast where we hope to end our wandering... time will tell if it will work. Regardless, we are a resilient people.
* Big_Aengus nods.
<Big_Aengus> I can respect that.
<Eyllia> And I know that we would use the lumber that you can provide.
<Big_Aengus> Stay as my guests this evening. We'll talk over this more, but I think we can reach an agreement.
<Eyllia> I'd be glad to
* Big_Aengus smiles and nods and calls for someone to bring them something to drink.

Laris Loves Logistics

<YOAW_Narrator> Okay, so, some ooc discussion ic decisions real quick.
<YOAW_Narrator> Who's heading out to the mountains to try to secure the passes?
<Laris> I was going to ask Kraaz and company to go to the one we wanted to block. I think he can handle making a rockfall.
<Laris> Me and Rufus and Varinia, I think was the plan, to go to the one we're going to fortify, to check things out and start making preparations there.
<YOAW_Narrator> Okie doke. What troops, if any, did you want to take with you?
<Laris> and perhaps Gladius, since he offered to help with felling trees and such.
<YOAW_Narrator> *nod*
<Laris> Rufus's undead for sure, we need the grunt labour.
<Laris> and Laris's personal archers, for defense.
<Laris> that's my thought anyway. if Varinia or Rufus wants to tell me I'm wrong, they can ;)
<YOAW_Narrator> Just to clarify (not trying to be fiddly) you have three units worth of undead. Are you bringing them all?
<YOAW_Narrator> Less supplies needed, at least.
<Laris> oh, no, I don't want to bring all of them currently. I want to leave some for defense back home, in case we're sneak attacked or something.
<YOAW_Narrator> *nod*
<Laris> I think they're green, regular, and veteran undead? I'll leave the green and the veteran and take the regular.
<YOAW_Narrator> Sounds good.
<Laris> and presumably leaving Kadanu in charge at home, I think was what we discussed last time?
<YOAW_Narrator> I believe so, yes.
<Laris> *nod*
<YOAW_Narrator> You might want to deploy the Lalu support unit to either of the two places.
<YOAW_Narrator> They're good for digging in, or collapsing a place, I guess. ;)
<Laris> that's a good point. I'll send them with Kraaz.
<Laris> just in case :)
<YOAW_Narrator> He'll grumble about taking 'walkers' with him, but mostly good-naturedly.
<YOAW_Narrator> He knows they know what they're doing.
<Laris> blocking the pass thoroughly is more important than holding this one, I think. if we hold this one but they get through the other side, our efforts are useless.
<YOAW_Narrator> *nod*
<YOAW_Narrator> You, Rufus, and Severina can move out shortly with your accompanying troops. It's slower going than before, but you're obviously travelling in much greater strength.
<Laris> and since NA has the other Lalu troops to defend them, I can spare some of my undead to hang out at the Kai do Arat fort, I think.
<YOAW_Narrator> *nod*
* Aengus is now known as Rufus_Metillius
<Laris> (the veterans - leave the least good ones at home where they have other backup)
* Big_Aengus is now known as Severina
<YOAW_Narrator> (Makes sense)
<Rufus_Metillius> If it weren't always so godsdamned hot here, it'd almost be like our first campaign.
* Laris nods
<Rufus_Metillius> Wooded mountains, locals lurking in every ravine to murder us in our sleep. ;)
<Laris> Fond memories.
* Severina laughs.
* Laris says dryly.
<Severina> It's nice to be doing something.
<Severina> Don't get me wrong, I prefer a solid wall between me and the enemy, but I don't like this waiting.
<Laris> There might still be more waiting once we get there. But we'll keep busy putting up defenses.
<Severina> That's bone-work, but we'll do what's necessary.
* Laris nods
<Rufus_Metillius> Bone-work has kept you alive plenty of times, Vari, show some respect.
<Severina> You know I love you, Magus.
* Rufus_Metillius chuckles.
<Rufus_Metillius> You think we'll get a repeat of last time? Someone trying to block our path?
<Laris> We'll have to see, but it didn't sound too likely from what Gladius said. The locals may be occupied with the Legion and not too focused on us right now.
<Rufus_Metillius> Good news for us.
<Laris> Hopefully.
<YOAW_Narrator> You can find your way to the pass Gladius indicated. It does indeed look like it will suit your purposes nicely, funneling anyone into a choke point.
<Severina> Not the best place for a camp, but we'll make due.
<Laris> We'll manage.
* Laris will pick a spot for our initial camp, surveying the area
<YOAW_Narrator> Roll me Warfare, please. :)
<Laris> (any bonus dice apply?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Tactics, I think)
<Laris> !roll 8d6
* Daifan rolls for Laris: [ 8d6 ] getting [ 6 3 1 1 2 5 4 5 ] for a total of [ 27 ].
<Laris> (drop the 2 ones, so 25)
<YOAW_Narrator> Laris surveys the terrain and designates a spot which will give your troops a commanding view of the narrow valley and an easily defensible approach.
<YOAW_Narrator> The two subcommanders set about directing their troops. Rufus's undead, for the moment, will begin preparing trenches and levelling ground, while Severina's troops being setting up tents and spreading out to secure the area.
<Laris> (what time of day is it when we get to this point, btw? hopefully we have a few hours to work on this before dark)
<YOAW_Narrator> Gladius soars overhead, heading south to scout.
<YOAW_Narrator> (Yeah, we'll say it's just after midday, though nighttime isn't really a problem for any of your troops.)
<Laris> (fair)
* Severina will report back to Laris after a few hours scouting.
<Severina> Well, the locals certainly know we're here.
<Laris> oh?
<Severina> Spotted a couple of them coming up to look at the camp.
<Severina> They weren't trying to stay too hidden, but they weren't announcing their presence, either. I don't think they know we spotted them, though.
* Laris nods
<Laris> Not acting aggressive, then?
<Severina> Not as yet, sir.
<Severina> What's our policy here?
<Laris> I don't think they are threats, at present. We can make it known that we would talk with them, if they approach. If we want to try and peel them off from potentially allying with the Legion, this is our opportunity to do so. Only in the event that they attack, return fire.
<Laris> It might be that they'd be inclined to want to be on the other side of the wall we're about to build.
* Severina nods and will go relay those orders to her troops.
* Lanwa is now known as Gladius
* Gladius will arrive back at camp about the time Laris is sitting down to dinner (such as it is).
<Laris> (mm, hardtack and dried meat or something ;)
* Gladius approaches the command tent hurriedly.
<Gladius> Legatus, there is a situation that requires your attention.
<Laris> What is it?
* Laris asks, getting up
<Gladius> A group of orcs, to the south. 98, by my count. They're on the move in this direction, struggling over the mountains, perhaps a day out at their rate. But they are being pursued by legionnaires.
* Laris nods
<Gladius> The appear to be largely children and elders, with a few warriors.
<Gladius> They*
<Laris> Varinia, can you cover their approach?
<Laris> Move out along the treeline, perhaps, and aid them in their approach if they are under threat.
<Severina> Staying under cover?
<Laris> Yes. I want to keep our numbers and troop composition hidden as much as we can, at least - the element of surprise is valuable.
* Severina nods.
<Laris> We'll prepare to defend from here as much as possible in the time we have.
<Severina> We can move out shortly.
<Severina> Lord Gladius, how many Legion troops.
<Gladius> Thirty, mounted and armored.
* Severina frowns.
<Severina> We could buy more time if I sent a smaller force ahead, if Lord Gladius will consent to provide transport.
* Severina looks to Laris and Gladius.
* Gladius nods.
<Laris> If you're willing, yes.
<Severina> We'll move out now.
* Severina steps out of the tent and starts shouting orders.
* Severina and her troops can leave in minutes.
* Rufus_Metillius sighs.
<Rufus_Metillius> What was it she said about hating waiting?
* Laris gives a faint smile.
<Laris> I didn't hope to grant her wish quite this soon.
* Rufus_Metillius nods.
<Laris> Let's get what defenses we can in place.
<Laris> Even if it means just dropping a few boulders down, or piling up some logs, it's better than nothing.
* Rufus_Metillius sighs again and stands.
* Rufus_Metillius walks out and begins directing his troops.
* Laris will assist how he can (command some of the troops or whatever might be useful)
* Gladius will return a few hours later, around midnight.
* Laris will approach him to get a report
<Gladius> Your forward group is in place, and Centurion Severina should make contact with the orcs soon.
<Gladius> For the moment, I can aid in preparing defenses.
<Laris> Thank you.
<Gladius> I do not wish to provoke the Legion just yet, nor alert them to my presence.
* Laris nods
<Laris> I feel I should ask, at this juncture - would you consider defending this position as part of your general willingness to defend our city?
* Gladius nods.
<Laris> Or are you limiting your involvement to transport and supplies?
<Gladius> I hope it won't come to that.
* Laris nods
<Laris> I hope so too, but it's good to know.
<Gladius> But I am willing to consider aiding your troops part of a defensive operation.
<YOAW_Narrator> It's a long night, though Rufus, being a soldier, manages to get some sleep.
<YOAW_Narrator> Sometime after noon the next day, your scouts will spot the orc group moving towards your position.
* Laris makes sure he has some chance to rest, yes. silly vryloka you need sleep ;p
<Laris> (do they seem to be moving in a rush, like a panic, or more deliberately?)
* Daifan is now known as Korivan
<YOAW_Narrator> More deliberately, at this point.
<Laris> (ok)
<Rufus_Metillius> Well, let's hope that bodes well.
* Laris nods
* Laris will wait for them to draw into sight, then
<YOAW_Narrator> As they get closer, you can spot Severina with them at the front of their group. Several of your scouts are assisting children or elderly members of the group.
* Laris is relieved a bit to see that - if they have time to help children and elders, they aren't busy fending off an attack right now.
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* Severina will bring them up to the camp. She stops and salutes Laris.
<Laris> Salve, Centurion. What did you encounter?
<Severina> Thirty mounted troops, as Lord Gladius reported, sir.
* Laris nods
<Severina> Formerly mounted, I should say, sir.
<Laris> oh?
* Rufus_Metillius grins.
* Severina smiles slightly.
<Severina> My lads took their horses out from under them.
<Laris> Very good.
<Severina> Apparently they argued for a bit and then gave it up as lost.
* Laris nods
<Laris> That's good - but they'll return I'm sure.
<Severina> Legatus Corvis, may I present Sajun of the Guragath.
* Gladius is now known as Sajun
* Sajun nods her head respectfully.
<Laris> Welcome, Sajun of the Guragath.
<Sajun> Many thanks.
<Laris> I can see your people have been traveling hard - let us see if we can find you some food and a place to rest, if you wish.
<Sajun> We are most grateful.
<Laris> If you want to continue your journey, we won't stop you, but so long as you are on this side of the pass, we will do what we can to keep you safe.
<Sajun> Sevrin says you fight Turathi.
<Laris> We defend our people. If they attack us, we will fight back.
* Sajun nods.
<Sajun> They are many.
<Laris> Yes. We are few, but in this place, even a few can hold back many.
* Sajun nods, looking around.
<Laris> We hear that others of your folk have been captured by the Turathi legion?
<Sajun> Not many Guragath free, but we fight with you.
* Sajun nods.
<Sajun> Many of the valley folk.
<Laris> If we can help them free, will they fight with us?
* Sajun nods.
<Laris> We will do what we can, then.
<Laris> For now, you are safe here.
* Sajun nods wearily.
* Laris will make sure she and her people get some food and drink, then, out of whatever supplies we have.
<Rufus_Metillius> Should we send some troops to escort them down into the valley? Maybe let the Ankai know they're coming?
<Laris> Yes, that would be prudent.
<Laris> If they want to go, that is.
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* Rufus_Metillius nods.
<Rufus_Metillius> We'll sort it out.
<Laris> I have the feeling there will be more of them, or their fellows, if this is the situation here.
* Rufus_Metillius nods.
<Laris> The Ankai should know to expect them - and not attack.
<Rufus_Metillius> I'll make sure we have troops who've worked with them before in the escort.
<Laris> Good.

Korivan you're really not the best at this 'diplomacy' stuff

* Korivan will maybe try and send a spirit messenger rather than just, say showing up in her house unnanounced and hoping for the best ;p
<YOAW_Narrator> Sure, roll me Will. :)
<Korivan> (is this rituals or invoking?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Rituals)
* Korivan rolls [ 7d6 ] getting [ 6 3 1 5 2 1 5 ] for a total of [ 23 ]
<Korivan> (21)
<YOAW_Narrator> Korivan can dispatch an elemental spirit to inform Istima of his coming, as the ancestors thought it was beneath them.
<YOAW_Narrator> (Cue short joke about gnomes.)
<Korivan> (heee)
<Korivan> (but a local spirit was definitely the way to go, anyway)
<YOAW_Narrator> Yula will arrange for one of the Amanya Hatal to take Korivan to the Nalta Yaru, though they'll actually be met not too far into their lands by a familiar gnome appearing from nowhere in front of them.
* Rufus_Metillius is now known as Istima
<Istima> Gaath Hrieffen.
<Korivan> Quetar Istima
<Korivan> Greetings @_@
<Istima> Greetings to you, and welcome.
<Istima> You're more polite than I am.
* Istima says cheerfully.
<Korivan> I come... openly.
<Korivan> to speak of peace, as you did.
<Istima> That is good to hear.
<Istima> You spoke to Roime.
* Korivan nods
<Korivan> Yes.
<Korivan> What do you know of that?
<Istima> Mostly just that it occurred.
<Istima> And that Yula thinks we must unite.
<Istima> She came to seek my council after her mother wouldn't listen.
* Korivan nods
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<Korivan> yes...
<Istima> You come bearing much the same message?
<Korivan> she came to the city, to speak of her vision
* Istima nods.
<Korivan> And yes.
<Korivan> If peace and security is what you seek for your people.... thn we must ally against these new Imperials.
* Korivan frowns
<Korivan> the omens are.... unfavourable, otherwise.
<Korivan> @_@
* Istima nods.
<Istima> It's not just the Nalta Yaru you want, though.
<Istima> Our allies. Their allies.
<Istima> The valley must go to war.
<Korivan> yes.
* Istima sighs.
<Istima> Many will die.
* Webchat652 (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
* Webchat652 is now known as Istima_
<Istima_> (Had to switch comps for a sec)
<Korivan> The war will come, regardless. Many will die... either way.
<Korivan> That... is not the choice.
<Istima_> This will please your god?
<Korivan> Yes.
* Istima_ sighs.
<Istima_> And when the dust settles?
<Istima_> When the last soldier spills their blood, when the last hand still?
<Korivan> There are always... more soldiers. But here - the City desires peace, and We will look elsewhere for Bane's glory.
<Korivan> He has shown me... another purpose @_@
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<Istima> Another purpose?\
<Korivan> To unite his chosen @_@
<Istima>
<Goblin> The goblinoids?
<Istima> All of them?
<Korivan> In time @_@
<Istima> That's quite the goal.
<Istima> And what will you do, united?
* Korivan looks down at her
<Korivan> Serve @_@.
<Korivan> But that will come... in time.
* Istima frowns.
<Korivan> We will build a place of our own... and prosper there
<Istima> There. Not here.
* Korivan says, looking off into the distance at an imaginary city
* Korivan nods
<Korivan> In the north @_@
<Korivan> I have seen it.
<Istima> All right.
<Istima> I will bow to the inevitable.
<Istima> But not to you, or to Nesu Abamatu.
* Korivan nods
<Korivan> that is not what is....sought.
<Istima> Where must our warriors go? The city?
<Korivan> (good question - unless I have any insight elsewise, presumably yes?)
* Korivan considers
<YOAW_Narrator> (Yeah, I would think so, for now.)
<Korivan> Yes.
<Korivan> for now. Though the threat comes....from the south
* Istima nods.
<Istima> So Yula said.
<Istima> What convinced you?
* Istima says curiously.
<Korivan> She convinced Sirru May. We are allies. And there have been... other visions.
<Korivan> We met with some of this... legion.
<Korivan> and heard their talk of... empire.
* Korivan makes a face
* Istima nods.
<Istima> All right.
<Istima> I'll inform my people.
* Korivan nods
<Istima> Please follow me, Gaath Hrieffen, and accept my people's hospitality.
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<Korivan> That would be welcome @_@
* Korivan will go with her then, to tiny land where everythig is small and super magical ;)
* Istima nods and will lead Korivan to her people's camp. Korivan is fairly certain the pathway twisted and turned in ways it shouldn't, couldn't really, but they arrive nonetheless.
<Istima> (Hee)