Jyudas' Play By Post

[grimjim]

This will be the thread for my play by post game.

A few guidelines...

1. If you're not playing (EG if you're not Gojeta, Slythe, Fyrx or Jelathina) please don't join the story though you are free to post Out of Character or send private messages to the players kibbitzing, giving them advice, giving them props or whatever else you might wish to do.

2. Play by Post is not as 'flowing' as face to face roleplay, which has advantages and disadvantages. It means things are slower but it also gives you time to think about what you're doing. It can also cause mix ups during conversations and so on which means I'll need to interpret to an extent. Try and be as descriptive and precise about what you're doing as you can, perhaps try to anticipate ahead to save on posts. If you were questioning someone about something, for example, post all of your questions at once, don't wait to do each in seperate posts.

3. The flow will go something like this... I post, each of you posts (once! Edit if necessary!) once everyone has posted I post again, and so on. If you're going to be away, let us know and we can carry on until you get back as best we can.

4. Try not to 'force' RP. EG, if you were in a battle with some tribesman a good description would be...
"I charge into the lines of the enemy, whirling my Stavon sword around me with both hands and trying to make a break in their lines."
Or...
"I single out their leader, force my way through his guards and swing for his head."
But not...
"I cleave his head off." (Describing an outcome as though it were a certainty.)

5. When it does come to combat, and it will, try and describe your tactics in fairly general terms rather than specific moves. That'll help cut down the number of posts needed.

The next few posts will be posts for my reference. Don't worry about them for the most part :)

[grimjim]

(Notes for me)

Matisian Homeland Keyword
Native Abilities: Aesthetics, Forest Lore, Hunting, Tenacity, Noble Lore, Karavan Lore, Biotechnology, Leadership, Poison Affinity.
Native Flaws: Arrogant, Competetive, Hierarchical.
Typical Personality Traits: Proud, Romantic, Loyal, Courteous, Reverent, Independent.
Typical Relationships: To Royal Family, To Duke, To Family, To Karavan, To Tryker, To Guild.
Magic: Common/Poison.
Religion: Karavan.

Tryker Homeland Keyword
Native Abilities: Wily, Exploration, Invention, Lakeland Lore, Karavan Lore, Wind Technology, Resilience, Swimming, Energetic, Shockwave Affinity.
Native Flaws: Diminutive, Hedonistic, Chaotic.
Typical Personality Traits: Fun Loving, Irrepressible, Idealistic, Friendly, Outgoing, Individualistic, Generous, Empathic.
Typical Relationships: To Still Wyler, To The Council, To Family, To Friends, To Guild, To Karavan, To Matis, To Fyros.
Magic: Common/Shockwave.
Religion: Karavan/Neutral.

Zorai Homeland Keyword
Native Abilities: Enlightened, Mask of Kinship, Ritual, Lightning Affinity, Jungle Lore, Goo Lore, Teaching, Meditation.
Native Flaws: Feared, Insular.
Typical Personality Traits: Zealous, Respectful, Cautious,
Typical Relationships: To Mabreka Cho, To the Sages, To Ancestors, To Guild, To Fyros, To Kami.
Magic: Common/Lightning.
Religion Kami.

Fyros Homeland Keyword
Native Abilities: Warrior People, Desert Lore, Fire Lore, Determined, Honour Bound, Disciplined, Dragon Lore, Brave.
Native Flaws: Angry, Headstrong, Impulsive.
Typical Personality Traits: Loyal, Fierce, Honest
Typical Relationships: To Dexton, To Senate, To Guild, To Family, To Zorai, To Tryker, To Kami.
Magic: Common/Fire.
Religion: Kami/Neutral.

Karavan Religion Keyword
Abilities: Techno Lore, Karavan Lore, Jena Lore.
Virtues: Independent, Ambitious, Dutiful.
Magic: Common

Neutral Religion Keyword
Abilities: Tryton Lore.
Virtues: Diplomatic, Inquisitive, Questioning.
Magic: Common

Kami Religion Keyword
Abilities: Magic Lore, Kami Lore, Atys Lore.
Virtues: Pious, Respectful, Protective.
Magic: Common

[grimjim]

Gojeta
Profession Keyword: Mage 17
Elemental Attack 1M5, Status Attack 19, Healing 1M5.

Homeland Keyword: Tryker 17
Wily, Invention, Lakeland Lore, Wind Technology, Resilience, Swimming, Energetic, Shockwave Affinity, Karavan Lore 17, Exploration 19,

Religion Keyword: Neutral 17
Tryton Lore.

Abilities
Lakeland Foraging 17
Weapon Crafting 17

Relationships
Friendship Circle 13

Personality
Fun Loving 17
Shy 13

Flaws
Diminutive 16
Hedonistic 17
Chaotic 17
Weakness for Food 13

Equipment
Light Tryker Armour +1 Defence
2h Tryker Axe +5 Attack
Backpack of Food/Water/Dapper
Harvesting Pick +3 Harvesting
Crafting Tool +3 Crafting (Melee)
Tryker Dagger +1 Attack
Harvesting Jewels +1 Harvesting

[grimjim]

Slythe
Profession Keyword: Criminal 17
Stealth 1M2, Thieving 1M2, Criminal Lore 1M2, Knife Fighting 1M2.

Homeland Keyword: Fyros 17
Warrior People, Desert Lore, Fire Lore, Determined, Disciplined, Dragon Lore, Bravery, Fire Affinity, Honour Bound 18.

Religion Keyword: Neutral 17
Tryton Lore.

Abilities
Elemental Attack 17, Status Attack 17, Healing 17

Relationships
Family 13

Personality
Humorous 13
Loyal 17
Fierce 17

Flaws
Bad Reputation 13
Hatred of Police 13
Disdain for the Rich 13
Angry 17
Headstrong 17
Impulsive 17

Equipment
Dagger +1 Attack
Tryker 1h sword +3 attack
Cosh +1 Attack
Shield +1 Defence
Set of lockpicks +5 Lockpicking
12" crowbar +3
Dapper

[grimjim]

Fyrx
Profession Keyword: Warrior 17
1h Sword 20, 2h Sword 1M2

Homeland Keyword: Fyros 17
Warrior People, Desert Lore, Fire Lore, Determined, Honour Bound, Disciplined, Dragon Lore, Brave, Fire Affinity.

Religion Keyword: Kami 17
Magic Lore, Kami Lore, Atys Lore

Abilities
Elemental Attack 17, Status Attack 17, Healing 20
Pyr Lore 17
Criminal Lore 13
Fast Talk 13
Quick Feet 13
Hunt Timari 17
Hunt Ocyx 17

Relationships
Hazy Memories of Mother 13

Personality
Witty 13

Flaws
Skinny 13
Angry 17
Headstrong 17
Impulsive 17

[grimjim]

Jelathina
Profession Keyword: Forager 17
Foraging 19, Prospecting 19, Exploration 1M1.

Homeland Keyword: Matis 17
Aesthetics, Forest Lore, Tenacity, Noble Lore, Karavan Lore, Biotechnology, Leadership, Poison Affinity, Hunting 19.

Religion Keyword: Kami 17
Magic Lore, Kami Lore, Atys Lore.

Abilities
Survival 15
2h Sword 15
Nomad Lore 15
Elemental Attack 17, Status Attack 17, Healing 17
Exploration 19

Relationships
Marriage Vorico 13
Kami 13
Family 13

Personality
Devoted 13
Restless 13

Flaws
Arrogant 17
Competitive 17
Hierarchical 17

[grimjim]

Don'y worry about all these numbers, they're just for my reference. Could you check your religion though and make sure I got it right?

Also tell me what equipment (armour, weapons and things that don't exist in game that you might carry) you typically carry.

[herc2004]

First if i make a mistake in english forgive me (not my native language so...)

My in game personal fame with karavan is +1 and -1 with kami if that what you mean.
I'm neutral throu those only from missions.

Tryker light armor
2h tryker axe

A back bag with:
Food :)
Water
Money

On my belt(if this is the correct word):
My pick(for harvesting)
My melee tool(for crafting)

One tryker dagger in my left boot :)

The jewels i'm wearing for harvesting

If i have forgot something tell me to add it. :)

[akm72]

Slythe;

In addition to standard clothes or armour;

Dagger
Tryker 1h sword
backup cosh hidden under vest.
Shield (usually only if expecting trouble)
Set of lockpicks
12" crowbar carried in boot
Some Dappers

Religion;

Neutral (they're all as bad as each other, including those Tryton people)

[vinnyq]

(Back from trip)

I am Kami sided, religiously. No unique personal items.

[grimjim]

(Back from trip)

I am Kami sided, religiously. No unique personal items.

Just need to hear from Jelathina then.

[katriell]

Also tell me what equipment (armour, weapons and things that don't exist in game that you might carry) you typically carry.
*shrug* Generally Jelathnia just carries teleport tickets, sometimes materials, and always her Dragonblade (living Matis sword) and amps...nothing out of the ordinary...

[grimjim]

*And let's start*

Each of you, in your own way, brushed past in the street, found slipped under the door of your apartment, somewhere, somehow has recieved a note.

Bound and tied with twine the inscription is written in sap upon a broad black leaf, taken from somewhere in the prime roots. The writing is white, slightly glowing and almost seems to lift from the page a little.

It reads...

Our friend,

You are one of the disposessed, the individual, the underneath of Atysian society. You have been watched, far from home, hiding from the guard or simply trying to live.

There can be more to your life than this and there can be profit as well. Dappers come to those willing to go after them and the coming conflicts can present opportunity as well as problems. Opportunity that can serve you, or the faction you pin your loyalty to, should you wish.

We have such an opportunity for you, should you wish to grasp it. You will be compensated well for your assistance and you may even find out things of further use to you.

If you are interested, or curious, meet our man at the upper floor of The Tranquil Tryker, tomorrow night. He will indentify himself by his tuquoise armour.

The Circle

In with the rolled and tied leaf is a small puch, containing a 1,000 dapper orb. Perhaps a downpayment?

[akm72]

Slythe: I am curious, but suspicious. However, as I will need a new source of funds soon, I can't afford to pass up the opportunity. When the times comes I'll head over to the Thesos bar for the meeting.
While at the bar I will try to find a seat which puts my back to the wall, and allows me to keep an eye on the path to the door. I don't want to be caught by surprise, or blocked in, if this turns out to be a trap.

EDIT: I was assuming that "The Circle" was a secret organisation that no one I know would've heard of, in fact this might not be the case. Before going to the meeting and if I havn't heard of them myself, I check with a few of my friends and familiy to see if they know anything about them.

[herc2004]

Well i'm quite curious also so i'll go and wait for the person.
I'll need the money also since i'm gathering money to open a resturant in Fairhaven.:)

I'll go wait in Thesos bar drinking some nice coctails while i wait.
I dont throw the letter i just roll it back again and put it in my bag with the money.

(Sorry -_- told you i'm stupid, adding also that i'm not good on this but i try. I'll try not to do a mistake again :()

[grimjim]

Well i'm quite curious also so i'll go and wait for the person.
I'll need the money also since i'm gathering money to open a resturant in Fairhaven.:)

I'll go wait in the Fairhavens main bar drinking some nice coctails while i wait.
I dont throw the letter i just roll it back again and put it in my bag with the money.

OOC: NB - The Tranquil Tryker is, apparently, the best translation we can make for the bar in Thesos, not Fairhaven :)

[vinnyq]

Fyrx: I took the bag of dappers and the note and head for the TT, *after* first taking a nice bath in the waterfall. I sit at the Bar and try to get some info from the barman (discretely), especially about a man in tuquois armor and The Circle.

[katriell]

Jelathnia had barely noticed the note under the door of her apartment. She had been hurrying to store some junk that had collected in her bag over the past few days.

Once she was able to get a look at the note, she was dubious at first, skimming through the first two paragraphs until she came to the part about opportunity. Opportunity that can serve you, or the faction you pin your loyalty to, should you wish. Those words piqued her curiosity, as well as the part about finding out "things of further use" to her.

If you are interested, or curious, meet our man at the upper floor of The Tranquil Tryker, tomorrow night. As Jel finished reading the note, she supposed she fit into the latter category. She was curious, and even if it turned out to be nothing, or something she didn't want to involve herself in, the firewine would be worth the trip.

* * *

So here she was, walking into the Thesos bar. There were a few other people, but no one in turquoise armor as of yet. She took a seat on the upper floor and waited...

[grimjim]

The bar is mostly empty, a few old foragers sharing a pint or two of Oflovak's Special Brew and tutting at the antics of the younger harvesters along the edge of the Oasis.

"Them young fools'll dig down to the Prime Roots if they keep diggin' there so damned hard."

None of them seem inclined to spend their evenings digging like mad these days, they'd rather spend the cool desert nights with a drink in a nice warm bar.

Slythe sat with his back to the wall, a good view of the door to watch anyone else entering. He was the first there of the group and had time to think and enjoy a drink while he waited for the man in the turquoise armour to arrive.

He'd asked a few people about The Circle but had gotten only vague whispers. Something about a cross-racial, cross faction group of homin, quite secret but, as with all secret societies and the like, supposed to be ever present. Almost a bogeyman word, a tale to tell to children, but one that criminal parents - those in the underground - teach to their delinquent children.

Gojeta enters not long after, looking a little nervous and flustered since he really wants the money. Head filled with the thoughts of opening his glorious restaraunt as he settles his nerves with a few sap/fruit juice and Stinga Rum cocktails at the bar, the barman giving him funny looks every time he asks for one of the fruity concoctions. Soon the sweetened, and quickly drunk, alcohol eases his nerves, but also makes him a little unsteady on his feet.

Fyrx made his appearance not long after that, hair still wet from the waterfall where he has washed himself clean of the dust of the desert. Fortunately a hunting party had been by not long ago and his ablutions had not been interrupted by young Varinx looking for a fishy meal from the spill of the waterfall. Water dripped from him as he walked up to the bar, right alongside Gojeta, claiming a drink and whispering to the barman discretely, though Gojeta could strain to hear the words.

The barman didn't know anything much about a man in turquoise armour.

"Hardly anyone wears that stuff out here mister, the foraging grounds are fairly rich and people can afford better and need better, what with the critters around here."

As to The Circle.

"Bah, just a myth isn't it? Something the ragamuffins and thieves like to tell each other. That there's some Atys-spanning organisation of criminals who've actually done WELL for themselves and don't just end up thrown to the Kitin, locked in the cells or pressed into guard duty. All a load of wishful thinking bodocs if you ask me."

Jelathina was the last to arrive, less motivated by pure profit than the others and, perhaps, a little nervous - even than Gojeta. Still, there was a chance whatever this was about could be turned to good purpose or help her with her own aims. However it turned out a glass of firewine was welcome and taken with her to the upper floor to await the man in turquoise.

It was clear to these homin that they were different than most of the crowd here. Aside from the nights when The Samsara and friends descended on the Thesos bar it was almost always left to the locals and more adventurous homin stood out like sore thumbs.

Finally though, a man in turquoise armour, a patchwork set showing the crafting designs of many different races, entered. A woven Zorai forager's hat shielded his face, broad-brimmed, the straw of it battered and full of holes. His pack was slung across his shoulder and a pitted and worn sword hung at his belt. He didn't even give any of them a glimpse, just taking a cup of water and moving upstairs to take a seat, muttering on his way up the stairs, barely heard above the crackle of the lamps and the words of the old timers...

"It's me you're lookin' for."

He took his seat and waited for them to join him and ask their questions.

[akm72]

Slythe: I wait a short while before joining him. I want to see if he has anyone following him, and I don't want to seem too eager for whatever he's going to offer.

I want to know what he's proposing, what the risks are, and what the reward is. I try to keep my questions pretty neutral and keep my cards close to my chest; I don't want to seem too keen, nor too unwilling - but I'm not going to agree to anything until I've heard the whole plan.

[vinnyq]

Fyrx: I followeed the man upstair and take a seat, arm folded. I gave the man a curious smile (eye brow raised, wut this about then? kind of smile).

[herc2004]

I also go upstairs and sit in the seat that its across him so i can see him crear and watch his moves.
I will ask what he is proposing and what are the risk as Slythe will.
I also want to learn some more info about the Circle and what we have to gain from all these.

[grimjim]

(Going ahead anyway, not fair on everyone to keep waiting for one person)

Slythe watches as the others follow the man more directly. There doesn't seem to be anyone else following him and these others must be something to do with whatever he has planned. After a time Slythe follows after the others, with them but back a little, not as close to this man as the others, holding back a little, waiting to hear what he has to say.

Gojeta and Fyrx sit across from him at his table as he sips his water, taking a far closer interest and seemingly not worried to be associated with this person if anyone should see them. Jelathina hangs back even more than Fyrx, almost as though eavesdropping rather than taking part in the negotiations.

"What are you prop..." Gojeta and Slythe looked at each other as they both spoke the same words and then again as they both completed their sentence "...proposing."

The man finishes his water in slow sips, making you all wait before he answers.

"A couple of nights ago a fire fell from the sky in the Matis borderland and, so we hear, crashed to Atys violently. Previously the Karavan has taken great interest in such sites, as have the Kami, protecting and repairing the wound in the world. This time however, neither seem to have taken an immediate interest in it, perhaps caught up in their own conflict. This presents an... opportunity."

He brushes a little dust from his shoulders and levels his eyes at each of you in turn, startlingly green but heavily creased at the corners from exposure.

"That's where you come in."

"What are the risks?" Asked Slythe, taking a step closer. "And the rewards."

The man leans back into his chair and looks each of you over once more.

"The risks? Well, the Kami and Karavan may not be as neutral and uninterested as they appear at present, they might simply be being slow. It is also rumoured that Sirgio, the great Matis bandit, operates near the area the fireball fell. It is also an area known for its dangerous beasts where one does not tread lightly or without friends. A dangerous combination but not one too difficult for a group such as yours I am sure."

He pauses, smiling as he attempts his flattery.

"As to the rewards... a million dappers, even if there's nothing at all there. More if what is there is of any real value. If you'd prefer payment in goods or service that can be arranged, provided you're not too greedy."

He waits to let that sink in and then answers Gojeta's question about The Circle.

"We're the ones paying your wages, that's all you really need to know. We're in every land and every people and there are more of us than you might suppose. Now, do you need to know anything else?"

[herc2004]

What willl we have to do if Karvan and Kami get there while we are in the place you said?(leave the place, try to get the fire, ....)
Exept the money or goods as a reward will we get any equipment with us before we leave?
Will any other member from the circle will join us to this attemp?(helping us, spying us....)
How will we contact you when we need something or when we want to tell you news about this?

[akm72]

Slythe:
"Why don't you send your own people? I'm guessing we're pretty expendable to you... deniable as well. Now that's not necessarily a problem, but I like to know where I stand."

"Not that I'd never cross you, but what guarentee do you have that we wont keep whatever's there, and report back that we found nothing?"

[vinnyq]

*waits for the man to answer the questions from the other 2 that's with me*

*tries to get da man to give us 2 mil, or if not, a free mektoub mount*

[grimjim]

(Jelathina still seems to be on walkabout so as long as three people post I'll reply to keep it going)

He listens to each of your questions and answers them, turning his sun-baked face to each of you as he addresses you.

"If the Kami or Karavan are then when you arrive? Well, we'd want you to still try and get it if you could... but I don't expect you to throw your lives away for Dapper."

He sips a little more water as he listens further.

"We'll supply you with a wagon and a couple of Mektoubs, but you'll have to make your way there overland. The teleporters won't take a Mek or a wagon anyway, but if you 'port there you might alert the higher powers. We don't want that."

He smiles a little at the question as to whether any more will come.

"We prefer to stay secret, which is why we're acting through you. If you need to contact me, you can just think to me with your nanoseed." He taps his forehead with a finger. "My name is Dylan, think of me now and we'll be able to talk later. Be careful though, the higher powers might be able to hear even our thoughts."

(OOC: That's me rationalising the region chats and friends lists)

"Why don't we send our own people? Well young fella', you guess correctly. You're relatively expendable and we don't want to expose more of our organisation to risk than we have to. You're not expendable to yourselves though, any risks you take are your own. Trying to keep something from us would be one of those risks, and you never know who is one of us."

At the demand and wheedling for more money he shakes his head and laughs.

"That is EACH already you know, maybe you can persuade the others to give you a cut eh? As to a mount, the two pulling the wagon are also trained as mounts, you can saddle one and keep it afterwards. They always breed more."

[akm72]

Slythe: (to Fyrx) "A million dappers isn't too bad for a retrieval, with a bonus if whatever it is turns out to be valuable."

(to Dylan) "I'm willing to go down there and see what we can find, but no reward is worth dying for, so don't expect me to risk my neck."

[herc2004]

I'm in this so i'll might risk but not if i see that my life is in danger.
I hope everything will go good and i'm trying to learn the other ones that we will travel together.
Where are they from how they are called(since we first meet here ,correct me if i'm wrong)

[vinnyq]

*agrees to the business*

*thinks to himself that he probably would have a chance to bolt at the first sign of trickeries*

*says to the man he wants a little more initial down payment, maybe another 250k from the 1mil we would get later*

[grimjim]

He listens to Slythe and nods his head.

"I wouldn't expect you to put yourself too much at risk but I'll disagree with you a little. Some things are worth dying for. The fighting to hold off the Kitin so families and children could escape... that was worth dying for."

He listens to the others and then continues...

"There'll be no advance payment, the value of the mektoubs and the cart can be considered a downpayment if you like, the combined value of those isn't too far off what you're being paid anyway. If things get... problematic, you can always turn yourselves a nice sum by selling those off, can't you? Speaking of which..."

He reaches into the folds of his clothing and takes out a carved-bark marker.

"Give the stableboy this, he's looking after the mektoubs and the cart for me. Show him this, he'll give them to you. I'll be here awaiting your return in a couple of days."

[akm72]

Slythe: Takes the bark marker from Dylan. Looks at the others to see if they're ready. If so, we take our leave and head to the stables.

[herc2004]

I get a last coktail.
I drink it fast and follows Slythe.

[vinnyq]

*eyeballed my fellow travelers*

*also follows them*

[grimjim]

Outside it it is well into the evening now, the planet's light coming down in deep purple, the firefly lights burning, the distant howl of Varinx on the prowl and the rumbling snore of Arana all intermingled with the churning of the waterfall and the flow of the river.

The stablehand takes the chit and leads you around to the back of the stables where the cart is waiting. It is a sturdy looking thing made of strong, fire hardened Fyrosian wood but with a leaf suspension straight out of Tryker. A strange mix of materials and technologies these days, though perhaps not longer ago.

Two fine Mektoubs are attached to the wagon, each with saddlebags filled with feed, leaving you all the room in the cart. Without a word the stableboy hands you the reins and moves back into the shelter of his building.

[vinnyq]

*introduces myself to the other 3*

*ask if any of them knows how to drive a cart*

[akm72]

Slythe (to Fyrx): "Nope, but we can ride in the cart while you lead the Mek's on foot."

(In fact Slythe knows perfectly well how do it, even though he's a city lad like Fyrx. He learnt to drive a cart while helping his brothers move merchandise across the desert)

EDIT:
<deleted>

[grimjim]

*introduces myself to the other 3*

*ask if any of them knows how to drive a cart*

OOC: RPing tip :)

When you say 'introduces self to others' you're probably better off speaking in character to help express yourself and lend imagry to the scene.

EG: "I suppose we should get to know each other a little since we'll be working togther, my name is <blah>. I don't suppose any of you know how to drive a cart?"

And so on.

[vinnyq]

ooc: heh, I was too lazy, I thought you was gonna write my witty reply for me!

pooooo

(actually, I just wasnt sure how to go about it, since your instruction was to keep it short and general to give you more freedom to describe the scene etc. So basically we can flesh out our own dialogues, but not actions?)

edit to ask (ooc): are those mektoubs mountable?

[herc2004]

"I'm Gojeta nice to meet you not much to twell about me, only that i'm a lonely person :)"

"I dont know how to use a cart but we sould learn to make our trip easier."

[vinnyq]

"alright alright, I'll drive the cart."

*climbs into driver seat*

"Name is Fyrx btw. Hope you guys have an empty stomach, I can't remember the last time I handled one of these."

*eyed the mektoubs warily*

[grimjim]

OOC: Yes, the Mek's are mountable, but currently hitched to the cart and they have no saddles. So it'd be an interesting experience.

Introductions made you mount the cart and Fyrx takes the reins. Animal handling is a pretty basic skill across the Homin lands, particularly with trained Mektoubs.

Still, the Mektoubs don't seem to take to Fyrx's inexpert handling, bucking their head, swaying their trunks and swerving unpredictably, having to be hauled back onto the course you set for them.

Thus far though, you're just out of the stables, you need to decide on your route, it is a fair way across hostile territory to get where you need to go.

[akm72]

Slythe (to Fyrx): "Take the road for the Matis border" (points the way).
(to everyone): "Keep an eye out for any trouble, and keep your weapons close."

If Fyrx is having trouble controlling the cart, I have a little fun at his expense: "You sure you can handle those Meks? Maybe Yubo's would be more your size".
"I've seen drunken Trykers walk straighter than this!"

[vinnyq]

To Slythe: "Watsa matter Slythe, can't handle a little motion sickness? Steel yer tummies for a bit while more, I think I am getting the hang of this! "

*attempts to steer the mektoubs toward the Matis Border (via the Portal SE of Thesos?)*

*Yee hah!*

[herc2004]

*Gogo Fyrx*
I'm making my self ready for any upcoming battles.
Put the daggers in my boot and hide it.
*I'll heal you in any case and use my axe only in emergency*
*I'm a better healer than fighting with an axe but if its needed i'll use it.*

[grimjim]

Weapons stashed, armour strapped and the shaking cart barely wrestled under control you come around the lake and down the trail between the hills to head towards Matis, passing the old graveyard and shrine that marks the edge of the settlement's territory. Beyond here, is true desert and wilderness.

As you depart the town you begin to roll through herds of Timari, grazing the desert scrub and stripping bark from the meagre trees, their thin bodies and plaintive sounding cries bringing to mind starving, thirsty homin, lost in the desert and wasting away.

You have to pause the cart while a small herd crosses your path, huddled together against predators. A few bleats of distress can be heard from the other herds around so there must be predators around somewhere.

Its Gojeta that spots it in the end, a Kincher, stalking the very herd you are waiting to cross. If it gets much closer it may catch your scent in its spicules, and hunter-kitin loathe homin on principle...

[akm72]

Slythe: I point out the Kincher (just in case the others havn't spotted it), and suggest to Fyrx that he steers the cart away from it. I also ready my sword and shield and prepare to jump down and fight if it spots us.

[herc2004]

Gojeta whispers: I saw the kincher.
I get in alert and and be ready to use electicity and heal my companions.

[vinnyq]

"uh what? You want me to steer!?!?"

*attempts to steer a clear path around the kincher, hopping it won't notice*

"Careful now, Bob and Bob..." (for this is what I have named the mektoubs)

[akm72]

Slythe: "I have a bad feeling about this..."

[grimjim]

It was Gojeta who saw it, no-one else, and he makes sure the others know of it, pointing it out.

Everyone grows tense as Fyrx tries valiantly to force the recalcitrant Mektoub to take a path further from the Kincher and steer you around. They must be upwind for it or the scent would make them obey.

They prove stubborn however and no amount of rein-pulling, hauling and cursing seems to do the trick, the cart turning and rolling then turning back again. The kincher turns from its Timari prey and rears up, giving an ominous rattle and hiss before lowering its head and charging...

(OOC: For a battle round, propose in fairly broad terms your tactics for that round).

[akm72]

Slythe: I jump out and step between the Kincher and the cart. I take a defensive stance, and try to use my shield to hold off its attacks. If I see any opening's I'll hit it with my sword. I'm hoping that Dylan selected his team well, as I'm relying on them to back me up here, and to be honest I'd prefer it if someone else was taking the hard blows :/

[vinnyq]

"oh my!"

Fyrx: after reining in the Bobs and quickly let go of the reins, jumped off the cart and equipping the amp while in motion, running a few feet behind Slythe, getting ready to heal.

(I shall be healing until I see the situation of the battle more clearly).

[herc2004]

Jumping of the cart wearing my amps.
Since Fyrx will heal i'll do elemental.
I think electicity will do.
If Fyrx change to melee i'll swith to heal.

[grimjim]

Slythe leaps from the wagon and runs over the sand to engage the Kincher before it can reach the wagon, soon it looms over him, rearing up, lightning clashing against its chitin as Gojeta hurls bolt after bolt of power against its flesh.

Slythe ducks under, using his shield for cover and slashing with his sword, trying to keep it engaged, to keep himself covered as he cuts and thrusts, blue energy suffusing him, easing the aches from his bones as Fyrx sends his own castings over the battle.

Gojeta's bolts flash purple spots before Slythe's eyes, crackling over the creature's chitin, blackening surfaces and conducting through its flesh but it doesn't seem slowed down even for a moment, its shadow across him in an instant, mandibles clacking. It shoves its head down hard, biting at Slythe's upraised shield arm. The shield is turned aside, Slythe thrown backwards onto his arse on the sand, blood seeping from the torn leather of his sleeve even as he drags himself up again to face the Kincher once more, thrusting up with his sword as the overconfident kitin charges to follow where he was thrown.

The blade twists, catching in chitin, the thundering movement of the Kincher dragging him on as it turns towards the homin that is peppering its hide with electrical blasts, hissing, Slythe dragged along underneath it...

(Next actions)


*******************************
Gojeta - Electrical attack (Normal engagement)
Slythe - Defensive (Cautious engagement)
Fyrx - Healing (Normal engagement)
*******************************
Purely for my reference
Kincher
Bite 18, Fearless 5M, Large 5M, Run Fast 5M, Spot Prey 15, Strong 5M, Electrical Blast 2M
Chitin +3, Mandibles +2
Combat Pool: 15+2+3+3+3+2 = 28 (8M)
Attack: 8M

Gojeta
Combat Pool: 29 (9M)
Attack: 9M

Fyrx
Combat Pool: 26 (6M)
Attack: Healing (+3 Augment)

Slythe
Combat Pool: 26/20
Attack: Sword (6M)
***************

[akm72]

Slythe: Swearing loudly, I grab at the underside of the Kincher with my shield hand (dropping my shield if necessary). Then I try to free the sword, and thrust it into any weak points between the plates of chitin.

EDIT: If freeing the sword is too difficult, I grab my dagger and use that instead.

[herc2004]

I cast a spell of electricity in the place where Slythe hits the kincher so i can pass my spell to the wound if there'll be one.
I just hope this work so we can wound the kincher big time and make it easier to kill it.

[akm72]

I cast a spell of electricity in the place where Slythe hits the kincher so i can pass my spell to the wound if there'll be one.
I just hope this work so we can wound the kincher big time and make it easier to kill it.

That could go horribly wrong :D Make sure you aim high!!!!

[grimjim]

(Just waiting on Vinny :) )

[vinnyq]

ack sorry! Work is swamping me.

Just assumed I am going to keep on healing, and maybe buffing if necessary, until either it's dead or we are.

Or unless Slythe is being crude, if he is I'll just let him die!

[grimjim]

Holding on for dear life Slythe is dragged along under the Kincher, bumping and grinding over the sand and dirty, half buried and dried up roots snagging at his armour. He grips his sword and yanks it out, stabbing it back into the body of the Kincher as it charges along and drawing ichorous blood from it.

The kincher rears and rattles its mandibles as healing energy soothes Slythe's cuts and bruises, as electrical energy arcs from glove to blade, channeled down the amber inlay and deep into the beasts body making it whirl and hiss from from its spicules, nearly throwing Slythe off. Then it charges hard towards the wagon, smashing with its legs, trying to overturn it, to reach past it and get at the Mektoub beyond...

It smashes into the cart, the Mektoub rearing up and charging in a panic, drawing hte cart behind them, the Kincher stumbling, bleeding more heavily, overexerting itself in its anger and hatred Slythe's sword digging deeper into its flesh.

*******************************
Gojeta - Electrical boost to Slythe's Attack (+3 augment)
Slythe - Sword strike at weak points (Determined Attack)
Fyrx - Healing (+3 augment)
*******************************
Purely for my reference
Kincher
Bite 18, Fearless 5M, Large 5M, Run Fast 5M, Spot Prey 15, Strong 5M, Electrical Blast 2M
Chitin +3, Mandibles +2
Combat Pool: 15+2+3+3+3+2 = 8 (8M)
Attack: 8M

Gojeta
Combat Pool: 29 (9M)
Attack: 9M

Fyrx
Combat Pool: 26 (6M)
Attack: Healing (+3 Augment)

Slythe
Combat Pool: 26/20
Attack: Sword (8M)

Wagon
Combat Pool 21 (1M toughness)
***************

[akm72]

Slythe: Ok, more of the same for me then. I pull my sword out and hack at the Kinchers vulnerables again :)

[herc2004]

I'll try to hit the head with shockwave so i might make it feel dizzy and "stun" it for a sec to give the chance to Slythe hit it freely and clearly.

[vinnyq]

I heal the BOBS!!!! (mektoubs), and try to drag them away from the kincher.

[grimjim]

The Kincher throws itself forward, splintering a couple of planks from the back of the cart as it lifts up over it, toweing over the Bobs and Fyrx as he tries to help them.

As it rears up to strike a shockwave blast smashes into the side of its head, staggering it for a moment. Beneath it Slythe seizes his opportunity, cleaving his blade between plates of chitin and levering it, cutting and severing deep inside the creature's belly. With a hiss and a deep rattle it rears back and then falls, toppling to its side, carrying Slythe with it, its legs curling up around him like a cage in its death throes, finally laying still...

*******************************
Gojeta - Shockwave to attempt stun to help Slythe (+3 Augment)
Slythe - Sword strike at weak points (Determined Attack) 8M
Fyrx - Healing Bobs (+3 augment)
Cart - 4M - Fleeing
*******************************
Purely for my reference
Kincher
Bite 18, Fearless 5M, Large 5M, Run Fast 5M, Spot Prey 15, Strong 5M, Electrical Blast 2M
Chitin +3, Mandibles +2
Combat Pool: 15+2+3+3+3+2 = 8 (8M)
Attack: 8M

Gojeta
Combat Pool: 29 (9M)
Attack: 10M

Fyrx
Combat Pool: 26 (6M)
Attack: Healing (+3 Augment)

Slythe
Combat Pool: 26/20
Attack: Sword (8M)

Wagon
Combat Pool 21 (1M toughness)
***************

[akm72]

Slythe: "Damn Kitin!"
I try to pull myself out from the Kinchers legs. If that doesn't work I free my sword and start cutting the legs off, until I can. Of course, with a bit of luck the others will give me a hand :)
When I get free I gather up anything I dropped, before helping the others get the Bobs ready to move again.

[herc2004]

Changing to healing and heal Fyrx and then back to elemental casting a spell of electricity the kinchers wounds to make it suffer more.
After that if i see that the kincher is ready to fall i get my axe and try to kit the leg that Slythe will try to cut to give a small boost to the cut and rip it off :)

Get back out of there if i can and help Slythe get out out from there also.

[vinnyq]

*heals everybody up, calms the bobs, demanding people to sap me and get on with it*

Oh, and can we loot? :D

[grimjim]

Between you you hack Slythe free of the defeated Kitin and cut up its body, scooping goo into pouches, prising off sections of armour and cutting off and scraping clean the odd other bit and piece of it, leaving what remains to the scavengers.

That done, you're ready to press on...

[vinnyq]

*presses on*

well, after I wait for the rest to get on.

[akm72]

Slythe: "Yep, let's go."

[herc2004]

*Ready to go*

[grimjim]

The wagon, now rolling a little bit 'wonky', creaks and rattles its way across the desert, skirting the herds and avoiding any further Kitin trouble. Healing magic deals with the wounds to your bodies, but not to your egos and - in the hot sun - the harvested kitin parts begin to stink a little as they rattle around in the back of the wagon.

Soon though, the portal comes into sight, carved into the side of the great wood-wall that surrounds the land, a swirling vortex of energy through the raised wood and into the borders of the Matis lands...

[akm72]

Slythe: I suggest to the others that we rest for a few minutes, then lead the bobs through the portal on foot.

[vinnyq]

Slythe: I suggest to the others that we rest for a few minutes, then lead the bobs through the portal on foot.

Alright, but don't rest too close to me. I am smelly.

*rest then proceed through portal leading the wagon on foot*

[herc2004]

Gojeta : *I agree*

[grimjim]

(Sorry for the delay)

You take a short break, sheltering from the desert in the tunnel that leads to the portal. Its swimming, watery light shines down the tunnel, illuminating things a little, but not especially well.

The bobs snort and roots at the sand and scrub with their trunks, gathering a meagre meal while you also rest.

After a time you hear footsteps on the sand and, coming in the entrance to the tunnel comes a tall homin in a buo fibre cloak, walking along, leaning on a staff of motega wood. He stops, not far away and looks at you all from beneath his hood.

[akm72]

Slythe: I look at the newcomer suspiciously, hand near my sword in case he turns out to be trouble. If none of the others say anything, I say to him; "Greetings, stranger. On your way to Yrkanis?"

[herc2004]

*Wont speak*
Gets to stand by possition for elemental or heal.

[vinnyq]

*greets the man*

Howdy Homin! Wotcha?

[vinnyq]

are we still delivering this here wagon?

Or are we just going to drop the thing and go off to the old land for some PvP'ing?

HAHAHHAHAHAHHAHAHa!

*runs off*

(wait, I meant the poster vinnyq runs off. Not the character Fyrx. He's still guarding the Boobs and the wagon).

[grimjim]

(wait, I meant the poster vinnyq runs off. Not the character Fyrx. He's still guarding the Boobs and the wagon).

OOC: Guarding the boobs? Freudian slip methinks...
This will continue, just my mood has been soured a bit.

[vinnyq]

ooc: awww cheers up, don't be so grim..

oh nm.

hehe

Oh an yeah ... freudian slit, defintely.

[grimjim]

OOC: I always thought a freudian slip was a german nightdress...

[vinnyq]

tickle your bum with a feather?

[grimjim]

tickle your bum with a feather?

In a bit of a better mood, will try to get this going again soon.

[grimjim]

*Restart*

The man's eyes gleam under the hood, taking in your paranoid and somewhat defensive stances, his pale hand gripping his motega staff a little tighter.

"What has become of Atys when an old man cannot travel freely and ask a few simple questions of his fellow travellers without being suspected of ill deeds? You fellows should be ashamed of yourselves!"

He tuts and moves forward a little, tapping at the kincher-scratched wagon with his staff.

"Eh? What's this? Taking an empty wagon to trade in Matis? I doubt you'll find the nobles quite THAT credulous my friends."

[akm72]

Slythe (to old man); "Heh, it's what we're bringing back that's going to make us a profit. With a bit of luck anyway. What about yourself, you don't seem to be carrying anything worth trading?"

[grimjim]

"Who me? I carry something far more precious. Knowledge and information. Well, I'll wish you good luck in your travels but I think I'll rest my bones here a while. Such a group as yourselves is sure to attract attention and I may be able to make my way more securely after you have gone."

And with that he leans against the wall of the tunnel to the portal, hands crossed over his staff, head down, as he waits.

[vinnyq]

To Slythe:

errr ... I am confused. That guy was using some big words. Did he just insulted us? See where he's going and what kind of information does he have, will ya? (I am shy).

[herc2004]

Yes Slythe plz talk :)
I'm shy also.

[akm72]

Slythe (to old man); "Knowledge and infomation? What sort of knowledge and infomation would you be selling?"

[grimjim]

Slythe (to old man); "Knowledge and infomation? What sort of knowledge and infomation would you be selling?"

"Oh, you'd be surprised what an old wanderer can pick up with the right questions. For instance, I know that you are heading into Matisian territory with your wagon to pick something up now. Interesting indeed!" He chuckles and taps the dirt with his staff.

[vinnyq]

"Oh, you'd be surprised what an old wanderer can pick up with the right questions. For instance, I know that you are heading into Matisian territory with your wagon to pick something up now. Interesting indeed!" He chuckles and taps the dirt with his staff.

*drops the shy-pretense*

Fyrx: (To old man): "Say old timer, what do you know about this 'thing' that we're suppose to be picking up?"

[grimjim]

*drops the shy-pretense*

Fyrx: (To old man): "Say old timer, what do you know about this 'thing' that we're suppose to be picking up?"

"Oh very little, but now I know it is a 'thing' and from the way you say it, that must mean it is something interesting and unusual. Curiouser and curiouser!"

[vinnyq]

Fyrx: Ok, now you know too much. Mebbe I'll just kill you.

;)

*pauses*

Are you hungry or thirsty? I might have a bottle of fire-wine here somewhere in my sack.

[grimjim]

Fyrx: Ok, now you know too much. Mebbe I'll just kill you.

;)

*pauses*

Are you hungry or thirsty? I might have a bottle of fire-wine here somewhere in my sack.

"From threats to an offer of drink? Thank you, but I'll decline, and if I know too much, it is because you say too much. I am happy to rest here, carry on your way."

[vinnyq]

(To old man) "Ah well, your lost".

(To the gang), "Let's move on, I am itching to cross over to Matis."

[akm72]

Slythe (to Fyrx): "You didn't have to tell him that!"

Slythe (to old man): "As we've already told you, we're going to pick up a thing. To be honest we're not quite sure what it's going to look like, but we know it's to be found near Sirgio's territory. Now, can you tell us anything useful about Sirgio or the land between here and there? And no games old man, we don't have the time or the patience for them!"

[grimjim]

Slythe (to Fyrx): "You didn't have to tell him that!"

Slythe (to old man): "As we've already told you, we're going to pick up a thing. To be honest we're not quite sure what it's going to look like, but we know it's to be found near Sirgio's territory. Now, can you tell us anything useful about Sirgio or the land between here and there? And no games old man, we don't have the time or the patience for them!"

"About Sirgio? He is a powerful bandit lord that you truly do not wish to mess with. I intend to avoid him as much as I can for fear of my life. If you bear to the right as you come into Matis, and return the same way, then you should - hopefully, avoid him. As to the land, it is filled with dangerous beasts, most especially Cuttler, so I'd arm yourselves accordingly."

[akm72]

Slythe: "We've rested enough. Fyrx, lead the bobs through after me. Farewell old man."

When the others are ready, I step through the portal.

[vinnyq]

Right you are then.

*leads bobs to portal to cross over*

*didn't work the first time and passed right through it, so me and the bobs circled back*

*didn't work again, so we turn to pass it again*

*and again*

ooo! rainbow!

[vinnyq]

(ooc: oh crap, laaag! laaag! server went down! When do you guys think he'll be back online?)