Dawn of civilization

[Aux-Ash]

The first moon since the portents in the nightsky

Children of the fox (Raz Fox)
The mist was gently moving down the slope upon which the camp had been set up, in it's own way like the honey that the bees make in their hives. Slowly, gently making it's way around the thick tents of hide and the small embars that remained of the night's fires. Quietly, the camps hunters made their ways out of their homes out into the mist, carefully trying not to wake their beloved and their young as they gathered for today's great hunt.

The site of the camp had been a good one, the woods were filled with game and more food had been picked from the ground than many other. Despite that you had been in these parts before, the pickings had never been this good. Even though your stay at this place neared it's end, much food still remained. The tribe already had enough for winter, despite it being many moons away.

Some of the hunters had made half-serious jokes about there perhaps not being any reason to leave at all, there was plenty of seed and fruit. Seemingly unending game and many rivers with plenty of fish. But the decision remained with the leader, they all knew and respected that and would follow the decision no matter what.

Problem:Will the Children of the fox break the age-old tradition, passed down from one generation to the next, and stay? Risking to find that the abundance of food was naught but a illusion. Or will the tribe once more break camp and continue along the path that the ancestors have walked since the day of First Son and First Daughter?

The people of the horse (Krrth)
The children cheered and ran as swift as only excited children can to greet the hunters coming back to the camp. Each pair of hunters carried on their shoulders a great beast on a wooden pole between them. Smiling as their children came to greet them. Blood still dripping from some of the great beasts of which the tribe had taken it's name.

As they got nearer, now having the aid of their young the remainder of their families came to greet the victors. The horses would swell the camp's store and there would be no need to hunt again for many days, even if the meat had to be hung before it could be eaten. This great bounty truly is a sign that the spirits are happy with the People. This was truly a well chosen campsite.

At the great celebration of the kill when darkness came, the shaman cut out the heart of the largest of the horses and gave it to you. As the feast left the ceremonies behind and turned into one of merrymaking and dancing he once more approached you with a suggestion: He said that while this was a good spot, he was sure there was a better one by the river two days away. One with much game, seed and limitless fish, a place he remembered from when he went through his rite of passing (how long ago was that anyway?) but had never been able to find since.

Problem:The current campsite is a good one, and will service you for at least another two moons and you know that the next one will be almost as good as this one, one which location your father taught you. But the location the shaman speak of promises great reward, if his memory still can be trusted, But is still a great risk.

Those Who Wander Beneath the Spires of the Sun (Elvenblade)
The heavens thundered in the distance as the rain was puring down, a roar of victory on the behalf of the rain as it conquered the land from the sun. The dry period had ended and the rainseason had begun. Now life would return to the forests and your people would be able to head down from the lakes high up on the slopes. Every rainseason you would repeat the same procedure, as the rains came Those Who Wander would break camp and head down into the forests. Leaving behind the lakes that sustained them during the drought. Always walking on the same paths down along the mountains.

This year however, a hunter looking for game claimed he had found another great path down alongside the slopes. One leading to new parts of the great djungles. It was a popular topic around every campfire on the evenings, what was the lands found along that path like? Was it a desolate wastelands promising naught but death? Or was the djungle down there a land of many lakes, one that could allow them to stay during the dryseason and live off the fruits instead of having to return to these lakes.

Sending scouts would be a heavy investment as they would need much food to sustain themselves for a long enough time to explore the area. It would almost be better to go with the entire tribe, but such could easily prove to be folly. Sticking to the path of the ancestors is probably the better course of action. But stil... the whole tribe is tempted.

Problem:Ignore the new path? Or explore it to see if the dreams of the tribe might come true? Or trust the gods and spirits of the djungles that they will not let Those Who Wander fall but reward their bravery with plenty?

Those who wear seashells (Omnik)
The tribe had adepted well to life along the coast, while there was nowehere near as much fruit and seed and not a goat to hunt as far as the eye could see, there was fish aplenty. There was so much fish that had the tribe been able to live off fish alone, it would not have had to move. But it could not, and so had to keep moving every other moon. Some of the fishermen said that they could see larger fish farther out at sea, but could not reach it.

Some of the braver hunters approached you the other day and suggested that they move up into the mountains again. They had been practising their skills and grown strong from the fish and thought they could defend the tribe if attacked again. Perhaps only to return for a while to hunt some real food and then return here to safety once we have enough for many moons.

One of the elders, the one versed in the ways of the spirits of the land, advises against returning. The great spirit of fury and fire had shown that he would suffer no people who could not defend themselves on his land. If the tribe were to return we would risk his fury once more, insulting him by returning.

Problem: The tribe wishes to know what to do, are we to keep moving like we've done since we came? Establishing a new path to teach to the children, like the one we used to have in the mountainhome? Or are we to try to reach those bigger fishes, perhaps by trying to bring down some of those thin trees? Or are we to brave enemy and firespirit alike and return to the ancestral home of plenty?

Kinue (Coldheart)
Rekor was getting on in his years, age beginning to make itself very well known. His thick tent and warm fire doing little to keep the cold spring air from making his bones hurt. His wife cooking with the eldest of his children, his grandchildren playing beneath the great tusk from the prey that had made him chieftain.

The world had indeed changed. The most noticeable being that there had been no more mammoth since before the birth of his second child, now a mother of two. It brought sadness to think of the absense of those magnificent beasts. Instead of the mammoth, the tribe was now following a tribe of great reindeer, not nearly as satisfying to hunt but food was food.

Another thing that had changed was those wolves following the tribe. Originally it had only been one starved wolf following the camp, only to sneak in at night to steal a discarded bone or some sinew to gnaw on. Over time it had grown increasingly bold and tried to steal a little more meat each time, but backed off when you yelled at it. At first it had been an annoyance and a pest, but over time some of the hunters had grown a little fond of it (as long as it kept away from the children) and called it their little lucky-charm.

Now there were many more of them. Not many enough to put a strain on the tribe, but enough for it to be slightly noticeable. In time the tribe might need easier prey to be able to feed themselves and the "lucky-charms".

Problem: How to deal with the situation? Cull the number of the wolves? Send hunters out to find better, easier (slower), prey? Try to make those wolves useful somehow?

Beast Men (Cruxador)
Thurgak was right, the camp had been well chosen. Over the past few moons the tribe had been able to stay without moving and had been very grateful to their leader. As the weather slowly becomes warmer it nears the time when the Beast Men would traditionally start moving further down, to replenish the stores of seed and fruit. Even though the promise of the forest lies ahead, the tribe seem hesitant to move. To find this good a spot is rare indeed.

A surprise had shown itself in the nearby river a few days ago, all of a sudden large fishes had been seen jumping upwards along the waterfalls. Making their way up towards the great lakes. Some of the children had found it very amusing to stay close to it (supervised, of course) and watch as the great fish made their way up.

One of the hunters also claimed he had seen a bear on a stone up along the river, near a waterfall, sitting ready and catching fish as they jumped up. Perhaps it's an idea worth trying, trying to catch these huge fishes and bringing them to camp. Or perhaps following the river up the mountain to find the lakes they are all headed towards. But that would mean breaking an ageold tradition.

Problem:Break the camp and head down into the lush and bountiful forests below, to enjoy the summer and fill the stores? Or stay at this site, seeing how promising it is and perhaps try to fill the stores with fish? Or follow the fish up into the mountains to see where they are going and catch them there?

Scrawnee (Bored)
The springflood had come as it always did, flooding over the riverbanks and soaking the land around it. Now that it had passes, life was already returning in the thick mud. As the Scrawnee had come to realise, every year the river flooded and every year the plants returned. More and more every year.

The past generation, a new path had been laid out. Simply following the river downstream for many moons until it reached the point where it joined the greater river. Once it did, the tribe would follow the greater river upstream for eight moons before diverging and wandering towards the sun for a moon before returning here in time for the springflood.

It was a good life, with much food but it was important to keep moving or else the animals would eat too much of the food. However, this year your wife had presented you with a interesting, albeit bold and risky idea. She has noticed that the most of the plants are growing around the tribes former campsites. Therefore she has suggested to spread some of your stored seeds in a spot near the river that you know will flood. To see if it grows there next year.

Problem:Is it too risky to experiment with hard earned food, or is the idea interesting enough to warrant it? The reward is great, but the risk of wasting food is alos great.

Faera-Ri (Greystone)
With the start of the rainseason, bluerun has finally been restored to it's full width. It's the same every year, once the dryseason nears it's end the river almost dries up completely. Only to be filled with an almost alarming rate once the rains start. On occassion the mighty river has even flooded the camp and claimed some lives of the faeries. Not this year, fortunantely.

Soon the fishes would return and all the trees would once more bear fruit for many moons and the tribe would be free to replenish it's stores until the next dryseason. Some parts of the tribe has questioned wether it should be like this though, why the tribe has to fight for their lives to get full stores and then slowly eat and drink their way through the dryseason.

Why canot the entire tribe instead find a better home, one where they need not suffer through the drought but can live in plenty but during rain and during sun. While the current home might be safe from enemies, both river and drought present their own dangers.

Problems:Heed the words of these individuals and try to find a better home? Or hit them for wasting valuable time trying to gather food for the next dryseason?

Longwalkers (Wrathoflife)
Before the tribe lies the endless sea of grass that is their home, only a few isolated groups of trees preventing the lands to be a green and yellow mirrorimage of the sky. The hunters are far ahead, hunting deer and horse to return to the camp by dusk. It's a harsh life, following the herds and the rains. Trying to stay ahead of the drought. But better than the land before this one.

Recently however, peace in the camp has been disturbed by the newcomer. A man from other lands that came many moons ago and begged to be accepted into the tribe. He was starved and wounded, claiming to have fled from raiders that killed his last tribe. Recently however, he has spoken of land further north. Near the mountains and rivers. Where fish and seed and nut can be found in abundance.

Many of the tribe seem very attracted to such a land, wanting to go there. But how would he know of such a place? Did he come from there? If so, is that were those raiders live? Or is he trying to win the tribe over so he can control it, steal the leadership from you? Is perhaps the land he speaks of naught but a dream?

How is the troublesome man to be handled? Should he be challanged to preserve your honour and leadership? Or should you move to this land of his, taking a slight risk for the promise of food?


---
ooc thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=7023773#post7023773)

[Cruxador]

Beast Men

Thurgak sat up on a great rock, overlooking the camp. It was a habit he had gotten into. It helped him think. And he needed to think. Winter was coming. The food beasts were becoming fewer and fewer. They knew winter was coming too. But on the other hand...
This had been a good spot.There had been much game. Indeed, there was still some. The lake had been full of fish, and even now, great large fish swam through a river not too far off. The boys were very excited about this. Apparently the fish were leaping up a waterfall, easily snagged from the air. Thurgak had yet to see it, but from the amounts of fish brought back, these stories must be true. With the vast amounts of food, it was possible that they could stay the winter here. The tents and furs would keep the snow off. The fire could keep some warmth around. The spot was sheltered by trees, the worst of the wind would pass them by.
But why should they stay? True, this was a good place. But the place would be here later. True, they might not find it, but then again they might. Or they might find a better place. The loss of this place would not be insurmountable.
And if they stayed, the winter would be cold. There might not be enough food; the fish had appeared suddenly, and could disappear suddenly. If they ran out of food before the winter was up, people would die. Perhaps many of them. One of the women was with child. Even if there was food enough, she might lose the baby just from the cold.
But... the fish... Surely this sudden fortune must mean something. Perhaps they should stay a while longer. The Beast Men could always leave later, as long as they were out of the mountains before the snows came. True, there would be less food in the low places then, but with the fish, they would have more than enough to compensate for that. Yes, they could stay just a little longer.

[Raz_Fox]

As the dusky sky brightened and the valiant hunters returned, bearing the carcass of a young hind as well as the smaller prey, the tribe gathered by the river. Only a fool would ignore the call of the kafili. The hunters, led by the swift-footed Hetan, brought the deer forward as the women and the youths parted before them. Reverently they laid the hind down, and traditions as old as First Son and First Daughter took control. Even the kafili bowed to them.

She pulled out a small shard of flint from her belt and knelt before the carcass, hacking out its tongue as two of the hunters tamed a fire beside her. As the fire began to devour the wood offered it, Liadan Vixen-Tooth rose and sang to Harchano, the Spirit Chieftain of the Deer, begging him not to be angry at the hunting of one of his tribe. Then, she threw the hind's tongue into the fire, offering it as a sacrifice to Harchano.

Liadan turned her gaze to the Children of the Fox, assembled before her. She stood firmly before them, strength entering her graceful movements. "My family, I have come with a warning from Raomi, the Sea's Watcher. She descended upon me while the sun was high and I slept, showing me a vision. Danger lurks along our path like a wolf waiting for its prey - but in her benevolence, Raomi spoke among the spirits of the prey and the court of the Chieftain of All Waters. This place abounding in prey and fruit, where the fish seem to leap from the sea to our spears and the river's water is cool and fresh - this is a hole where the fox's children can hide, safe until the danger departs from our path." As the sun rose, it lit her red hair into a burning halo, making her seem like a spirit in truth. She smiled benevolently at the assembled tribe, raising her hands in blessing. "Now the sun rises to watch over the land, and it is time for those who hunt to rest. Go to your beds in the knowledge that you will rest in them for a time longer, children of the fox."

[WrathOfLife]

Longwalkers; Ka'low

Thinking long and hard Ka'low knew travel of the grasslands was not without its risks. Water was always hard to find and collect, and food ran short more days than not. But raiders were new to the Longwalker way of life. The thought of an entire people out to hurt others was seem as barbaric to Ka'low.

But a better way of life had to be found. Waiting until the hunters came back, he gathered them in a group and ask for a small number of them, 3 or 4, to head north and find this promised land of the newcomer, to learn of its dangers and then return.

After giving his orders and watching the hunters run off to find the land, Ka'low made his way to the Shamans tent. Once there Ka'low asks him to look to the future and tell Ka'low all he see's, "Will the northmen lands bring peace or destruction to our people?", After this he goes to the newcomers tent. There he sits down with the newcomer and begins to question him.

"How did you learn of this land you speak of? Is this where you came from? If so does that mean the raiders live there as well? We have welcomed you into this tribe, we hope that you in turn have welcomed the tribe into your heart, and will care for it and protect it as if you were born a Longwalker."

[Kaiser Omnik]

Those Wo Wear Seashells; Mysterious Voice

The man known only as Mysterious Voice laid on the beach alongside a beautiful brunette. He caressed her hair. Mysterious Voice was young and handsome. He could have any woman he desired. Nobody ever questioned his leadership. His voice commanded respect. To speak against Mysterious Voice was to speak against the entire tribe.

There he laid quietly with one of his favorite wives. But he was troubled. The signs were clear. Despite the obvious dangers of the Sea, Those Who Wear Seashells were destined to go across the water...

Across the water...? Even he found that ridiculous. But that's what the signs told him. To go back where their ancestor came from. To tame the waves. To forget all about the furious spirit of fire and start a new life. He had finally accepted the matter. But he couldn't let the others know he had already made a decision. So he gathered the powerful men of the tribe, warriors and elders alike, to discuss the situation. He let them express their feelings, share their frustrations, confront their arguments, until everyone had had the opportunity to talk. Then, he sat in front of the fire and meditated. He focused to get in touch with the spirit inside. The following morning, he informed everyone of his decision to reach the biggest fishes. He made sure not to insult the proud hunters, telling them how taming the Sea was their greatest challenge. But in the end, if they succeeded...they would be remembered for many generations. They would become something more than mere Men.

Now, how to turn those thin trees into something useful...

[Krrth]

The People of the Horse

Akteron thought about the old Shaman's words. His tribe had everything it needed, but something was wrong. He wasn't sure what it was, but something was bothering him.

After a long night thinking and praying to his ancestors for guidance he had a solution.

In the morning he called the best hunters and gathered them in conference with the Shaman. They listened while the Shaman related everything that he could remember about the location.

Afterwords he spoke.

I think the Spirits are speaking to us, but we aren't sure if they are friendly. Therefore I have decided what to do. You will partner with one of the young hunters and search for this place. Take what food and water you need for 8 days travel. We have enough food for now, and one third of the hunters will stay behind. Go, and if you locate something that matches Walks-with-Prides memories return to us immediately.

Watching the hunters leave, Akteron turned to the Walks-with-Pride.

If they find your location, we will move there. You have shared your wisdom with the tribe for many years, through my time, my fathers time, and his fathers time before that. I will trust that wisdom now. We will continue looking for your place. If we find it now, we will move the tribe. If we do not find it, we will keep looking.

[Elfin]

Those Who Wander

Jurrik sighed as he gazed into the vast grey skies, echoing with the Sky Father's mighty revels. The dry season had been hard, but his people had pulled through, and now at last rain had returned.

They had pulled through- but not without loss, Jurrik reminded himself with a grimace. Four spears and ten now lay without owners, thanks mostly to the mountain-demons that dwelt on high; more than half the tribe's hunters. And nearly twice that number of women and children.
Now there were rumors of a new road down the spires, leading to a part of the jungle more fertile than ever seen before. Many urged Jurrik to try that path instead of the ancient ways, saying it was a sign from the spirits, but the chief had refused adamantly.

Jurrik was sure these tales of a paradise were merely wishful thinking, search for a respite from the harsh dry days: but nonetheless there was some merit to the idea- for with so few hunters, the tribe could not possibly hope to bring down enough prey in the current territories to sustain everyone.

And yet the question remained: was this a gift from the Sky Father, help in a time of need? Or was it a trick of the Dark Spirits, an attempt to lead the tribe to its destruction? Death could lie down either path.

And then again...
To walk the new path was to walk blindly into either death or life, but down the old ways, the chance of death was uncertain, merely a guess at the prowess of the tribe's hunters. And the chance of survival far outweighed that of an unknown way; for countless ages the jungle had sustained his people, and for countless ages they had needed nothing else. Who was Jurrik to forsake the ancient ways merely because of a bad drought?

No, the tribe would follow the path they always had, the one gifted to them by Sky Father at the dawn of days. It had never led them astray.

[Coldheart]

Kinue,Rekor

It was a pity really. Back in his day, when you managed to fell one of those mammoths, the tribe hold a long feast and still had enough mest to go nearly a moon. Now the hunters nearly had to go every sunrise just to get the enough to put something in the storage. And then the fact that hunting reindeers isn´t nearly as satisfactiory as hunting the mammots was.

Rekor sighed. Sadness once again overcame him, remembering the old times. He tried to shake it away. The old witch Herkla had said something about the passing of the mammoths, but ...

Rekor get a grip of yourself, he scolded himself. Now wasn´t the time to think of the old times.Right now, the tribe is able to sustain itself, an althoguh reindeer aren´t really hard prey to hunt, they nourish the tribe. Also look on the bright side. Without mammoths, nobody will be able to repeat your claim to fame. A smile appears on his face. Only to disappear when he hears a wolf howl nearby.

Wolves, they had to to something about them. Rekor thinks about what he could do. Ignore them, no, rather sooner than later their food supplies would be devestated by them. Cull the herd, cornerd wolves can fight, so at least some would be injured from the tribe, let alone that several hunters look at them as their "lucky charms", so not an option. Finding easier prey, first find one and second he wouldn´t let some beasts govern the way his tribe lives.

So what to do. Than it struck him. Wolves are hunters, like the Linue. Maybe we could use them to help us in our hunts, they get some flesh, we more game. Of course taming these beasts would be hard work, but if it works the could really become the tribes Lucky Charms.
A Kinue always hunts alone, was an old saying, but what did the witch again say about the mammoths.

"Those who can´t change with this time of change will disappear from this world."

Yes, it was time for that to change. Rekor rises up from hi seat and leaves the tent in search of the hunters. They had things to discuss. If the wolves wanted meat, they had to earn it like any other member of the tribe.

[Greystone]

Faera-Ri

The tribe meets in a central firepit, and look to the crude hut, biggest in the village. Their wings flutter nervously as they mutter amongst themselves. Should they try to find a safer place to live? Or should they stick to the old ways. The question was on all of their minds, with very few stauch supporter or either.

The elders and the chieftan had been going at it for almost three hours, then suddenly the sounds from inside the hut stopped. There was silence for a moment, until the drums inside began to beat and a keening began. It was a sorrowful, melodic sound that moved through the body.

Then came the chieftan, the great Swift-Strike. He was tall, taller than most of the Faera-Ri with tanned golden skin, amber eyes, and a shock of red hair. As the keening continued he rose his hands.

"We will find a new home"

[Aux-Ash]

Four moons since the portents in the sky

Beast men (Cruxador)
High summer was cooler up this far in the mountains than down in the valleys, far more preferable to the beast men with their thick hair on the bodies. In addition, there were far fewer insects pestering the tribe than usual. The fish had been plentyful and had allowed to tribe to stay despite that most seed had run out. It had been a very good early summer, and the tribe is very grateful for your wisdom. Many nights have your decisions to stay been celebrated.

A few days ago the tribe had started talking that it was time to start heading down the slopes, before the heavy rains that came at the end of summer turned the slopes into a thick mud that would make any descent difficult. It was more or less decided that the tribe should wait for the last few hunters that were hunting a few days away before they packed up the camp.

Then the hunters had returned with a remarkable tale. They claimed to have found great lakes up in the high passes where the fish that the tribe had been feeding on had made it's summer camp. They claimed that the lakes were filled with so much fish that you only had to reach down with your hands and you'd be able to grab a fish with each. They also claim that there is vast woods with much fruit and seed to gather.

Problem: The tale brought doubts into the hearts of your tribe. If the story is true then it will be easier to gather the winter stores for the tribe up there by the lakes. But the problem is that the tribe might not be able to get down from the mountain before the rains and if it didn't... they might be caught up here for winter. They turn to you again to decide, to stay or to travel?

Children of the fox (Raz Fox)

Over the past three moons, many new baskets had been made to store the abundance of food gathered. The camp had enjoyed a very good mood as this land was truly a blessing. The tribe had more than enough food for the winter, despite it being high summer. New tents had been made and many women were expecting children. The tribe was well on it's way to become bigger than it ever had been before.

It seemed like the tribe trusted the Kafili more than they ever had, for even if the kafili in general were wise and learned in the ways of the world they had never been blessed like this before. Yet some of the elders have spoken to you about their worries. They fear that that the young will grow too fond of this place and not want to leave when the time comes. That it is better to leave now before the tribe grows too complacent and weak.

There is no denying that this place is a wonder that still have much to give, but sooner or later it will run out like all the rest and from then on life will be hard and many will have to go back to a hard life of wandering and never find a paradise like this again.

Problem: The elders are wise, they have walked this land longer than anyone else. When they are conserned it is usually wise to heed their warnings. Yet, at times it is merely their age speaking. Old minds that are too suspicious of the harsh world to appriciate what has been given. You have no doubt that if you decide to stay, they will stick by you without (much) complaint. The tribe trusts you to decide what is best for them: to stay and enjoy this endless paradise or pack up and leave, to strengthen the tribe and perhaps return next spring?

Longwalkers(wrath of life)

The newcomer, Qualt, has served you well and answered your questions as good as he could. He confirmed that it was indeed one of the many sites of his former tribes seasonal path. They usually arrived there by late summer or early fall and spent the winter there. Close to the fish so that they would have food if the stores ran out.

One day, when the tribe had spent many moons there already, men came out of the woods wearing strange colours on their faces. They had come with spears and axes of black stone and attacked the camp before Qualt's tribe could defend themselves. They had killed all the men and children they could find, then bound all the women and brought them back into the woods.

Qualt claimed that he only survived because his yurt had collapsed over him and the men-with-painted-faces had not found him underneath. He seemed ashamed of the fact that he had been unable to crawl forth and defend his people.

He did not know if these men-with-painted-faces lived there, but he did not think so. His tribe had been spending winter there for generations but never been attacked before.

Together you're now standing on a tall hill and he points to the forests by the horizon, claiming that the place is right before them. Probably two or three days from here.

Problem: You're now at the crossroads, the tribe will not pass by any closer to that location until next summer. If you decide to go another way you will not be able to afford going back. The food of the plains is far to scarce for that. If you decide to go there, then you will most likely be trapped there when fall comes and the dry riverbeds of the plains flood. Will you go to food but risk the painted-faces, or will you leave the food behind and go to safety?

Those who wear seashells (Omnik)

Many moons have passed since the tribe started experiment on how to reach the fishes. It was quickly established that the thin trees of the shore were quite good at floating and that a person could easily cling to it. The first few experiments with fishermen swimming with a tree behind them ended in disappointment though.

As time passed however, one woman got the idea of roping a few logs together. The tribe then spent many nights (in the days they were busy gathering food) to bind several of the thin trees together into a raft. The raft proved much more succesful than the single trees. It allowed the men to rest and gather their strength and store the fish somewhere.

Over time they also learned to swim and dive and learned to gather food not only by spearing but also through gathering clam and seaurchin from the bottom of the salty sea. There is no question that the sea can bring much food given some effort, the only real limitation is the fact that they only got one raft so far.

Problem: The fishermen have one problem beside their limited amount of raft(s). It's the birds that flock around the boat you have, trying to snatch the fishes caught by the brave fishermen. The birds are getting awfully brave and even though the men on the raft keep one man on it to chase them off they still manage to snatch a few. They've turned to you, unsure on how to solve the issue.

The people of the horse (Krrth)

The first few days after the scouting party left was difficult for the tribe, the fewer hunters made it difficult to kill enough game to to keep the stores from shrinking. The mood was very poor and many saw it as folly to risk the entire tribe to find the dreams of a old man, allthough they never said so out loud.

The mood rapidly improved when the hunters returned claiming to have found the place. It seemed like all doubts in the decision was gone and the tribe happily left the current site and ventured, led by the hunters and a seemingly rejuvinated Walks-with-pride. You got the feeling that he himself was feeling younger than he had for a long time.

It took a few days to reach the location, lying next to a very wide river. On the banks of the river was a rich and verdant shrubland, looking like a small jungle compared to the lands just a day away. In the river there was plenty of fish and it seemed like this was the homeland of the spirits themselves.

Problem: As the tribe arrived a discussion erupted on where to put the camp. Some of the hunters suggested to put the camp further upriver, near some huge caverns that perhaps could be used for defense. The disadvantage being that the richest riverbanks would be half a day away and that there was less fish there.
Another group suggested to put it slightly above the widest of the riverbanks, making the food being no more than a few steps away from the camp. Naturally, the position woould be difficult to defend and the tribe would be very exposed to the elements themselves there.

Those who wander (Elvenblade)

The tribe had taken the decision to walk along the path of the ancestors with both relief and disappointment. Relying on what you knew worked was always a sound strategy and it was best to think of the future and not indulge in flimsy feelings like curiosity.

As the moons had passed on however a surprise reared it's head before the tribe. Last summer they had encountered a large swathe of the forest that had been taken by the river in a springflood. The entire area had been cleared and the tribe had used the open ground to set up it's camp.

This time however, the area was covered in young trees, barely the size of a child, and many shrubs and plants. All of which either carried seeds or fruits that the tribe had in it's stores. Particulary the area you distinctly remembered to have designated for waste was covered in plantlife.

This truly was a blessing, but a nagging part of in the back of your mind kept telling you that your own tribe might have caused this. It is after all not any platns, but primarily those which carry food. In addition... some of these plants grow on the mountainsides and not in the jungle.

Problem: This summer the path of the ancestors is supposed continue on passed the cragged rock, but last year it kept going along the river. You clearly remember another area along the river that had been cleared by the river like this one had been where the tribe aslo had made camp. Is it worth to travel along the river instead to see if it too is covered with foodplants or should the tribe stick to tradition.

Kinue (Coldheart)

At first the hunters had thought you were joking about the wolves, but it did not take long to convince them that you weren't. Progress had been slow however, and some of the hunters had recieved some nasty bites from the wolves. Eventually however, some of the wolves had begun to follow the hunters out on the hunts.

The wolves proved to be effective killers and very skilled at bringing down reindeer that they even brought back to camp themselves. Of course, they didn't share it with you but kept it to themselves. Feeding it to their pups and to each others. But at least they fed themselves and didn't put pressure on the tribe's hunters anymore.

Herkla did mention something interesting the other day though, she claimed that the wolves reminded her somewhat of the parents of the tribe. How they kept their young close and far away from the humans (like how the tribe kept the children away from the wolves) and how they trained them once they grew old enough. An idea then struck you... perhaps a wolfpup was easier to train than one of those fully grown ones.

Problem: Try to snatch some of the pups to see if they're easier to train to be useful to the tribe? The disadvantage of the idea is that the wolves aren't too fond of people stealing their young. Trickery would most likely be needed. Then again, maybe it's just not worth it. There was definantely a risk the wolves could decide to turn on on the tribe if it was attempted.

Faera-Ri (greystone)

The Faera-Ri had been building the stores for many moons with excited antacipation, while there was much worry about the uncertain future there was also much hope. Many moons they spent on making sure they'd have enough supplies for the journey.

At the same time, the tribe also wondered where the chieftain swift-strike would lead them. Would they go upriver? The streams always carried strange and unfamilar leaves and twigs with it. Perhaps there was a verdant forest further upstream. Or should they go downstream? Perhaps the river ran to a great lake that would stay wet even in the dryseason.

Perhaps they would leave the river behind alltogether, to go to the lands from where the sun rose. Surely there ought to be great lands close to the warm sun. Or should they go to where the sun set? Where the coolness of evenings would ensure that not all water dried up?

Problem:In which direction will the Faera-Ri find their future and fortune? Or have the chieftain changed his mind and decided to stay after all?

[Elfin]

Those Who Wander

Jurrik was flooded with relief.
Though he had pondered this new find for a long while as the tribe explored the riverside, there was now no question in his mind, especially after consulting the oracle bones.

The old chieftan now knew that he had made the right choice in taking the old ways - for this lush new place, risen from the wastelands, could be only one thing. A gift from Sky Father, a reward for ignoring the lures of the dark spirits. Yes...the Sun-Wanderers would stay here and revel in its plenty for as long as they could.

Jurrik gazed fondly upon the people of his tribe, then drew a great breath and called them near to reveal his decision.

[WrathOfLife]

Longwalkers; Ka'low

Ka'low's decision was an easy one. The longwalkers would keep to the plains, the risk of the face panted people was too great. However, it did serve to highlight how easily an enemy could destroy everything they love.

Ka'low addressed his people, explaining the dangers of the new land. However he then goes on to add:

"Should we encounter these raiders as we are now, we wouldn't stand a chance. We must change ourselves if we are to survive such dangers. From now on, every man, woman and child, regardless of there craft will train with a weapon for at least half of the morning, weapons must be kept well tended and ready to use at a moments notice. We must be ready."

[Krrth]

People of the Horse.

Chief Akteron considered both arguments for where to camp. After a night of thought, he gave his decision.


We will make for the caves. They will provide shelter from the weather and protection from animals. We are strong, we will survive a little hardship.

Once the decision was made, Akteron made a few more plans. Each week the hunters would travel to the richest riverbanks for half a day, then set camp.. They would stay there hunting and fishing for two days smoking and curing the meat.. On the fourth day they would break camp and bring the food back to the tribe.

They would spend the other three days patrolling and resting. A rotating system of three groups was set up so that there was a patrol out at all times, some hunters at home for defense at all times, and a group hunting at all times.

[Raz_Fox]

The ashes glowed with a faint orange light, sparks flying up as Liadan stoked the tiny fire. Its heat didn't fill the large tent, and yet the Kafili wore only a wolf's pelt draped about her shoulders and a flap of rabbit's fur covering her pride. She looked up from the fire at the two elders before her with a coy smile. "May no ill spirit follow your feet, honored ones." "And shame to us if we have offended the spirits against you." Rasar bowed his head as he finished the greeting, a gesture of respect and submission to the tribe's leader. Balanis did not, but instead held out a small basket filled to the brim with fish caught from the river. Liadan accepted the basket, placing it by her feet after lifting the lid and admiring the bountiful catch.

"So, wise fathers, I understand that you have spoken with Hetan and Quick-Winged Larali over our rest in this place of safety. I understand your desire to continue, to stretch out our legs again and not allow our muscles to wither in safety. And yet." Liadan raised up the basket of fish again, letting the elders see it. "If I was to eat three of the fish given to me, and then dug up a hole and buried it, would this not be an offense on you? The spirits have blessed us greatly, and to leave now and abandon the gifts given to us would be a great offense on them. I have spoken with Vakano and Baelilano in my dreams, my days spent in sleep touched by fair Silanomi. I believe from their murmuring and restless sighs that this is not merely a hole to hide from danger but a warren for the Children of the Fox."

Balanis nodded, a sour expression on his face, but Liadan held out her palm in a gesture of warning. "And yet. The young kits that wish to become men - they must be toughened on the trail. The restless hunters that wait here - they must be allowed to run on the old paths. I would be honored if you led them south when the leaves begin to fall, eldest of those who hunt. They will learn the secrets of men among men while the snow falls, to return to this warren when the grass triumphs over snow once more." The two elders looked at each other, then into the now inscrutable face of the Kafili. "...A wise decision, Kafili. But it is not tradition to do so." Liadan simply said, "Every tradition must start somewhere."

[Greystone]

Faera-Ri

Swift Strike had been thinking about the very problem all his people were worried about. He mulled it over, looking at the leaves, tasting them. They were strange, but not THAT strange.

Then one day he found a strange purple fruit, floating down the river. He picked it up, and tasted it. It filled his mouth with a juicy tang that he had never experienced before. Soon enough, he had called his people to him.

"We go Upriver"

[Kaiser Omnik]

Those Wo Wear Seashells; Mysterious Voice

Mysterious Voice was slightly annoyed. How dare those pathetic birds compete with his people? A people blessed by the Heavens! And soon to master the Sea...

First, he told the men to fish at night, when the birds are less active. Second, he sent hunters to search the cliffs for the birds' nests. If necessary, they would control their population.

[Aux-Ash]

Seventh moon since the portents

Those who wander(Elvenblade)

Four moons had been spent here and there was no question about it, the tribe could live for a long time here. Food seemed endless and every man and woman of the tribe seemed satisfied. There was fish in the river, fruit on trees as far as the gatherers could walk. The soil bore much seed and grass and there was no end to the prey the hunters brought in.

The decision to stay as long as the land could feed tham had led to the tribe not moving at all since then. It was not like tradition, usually the camp had to be moved every moon. This land seemed endless in comparison. Yet, worries were nagging the elders and you. You know that in a few moons the dryseason will come.

The jungles will go dry and the lakes of water run out. The land will die, only to be reborn with the rain coming at it's end. Traditionally, those who wander have always sought refuge on the cooler slopes, by the lakes up there. This year however, you've found this great gift from the skyfather. With so much food it would be a shame to leave it untouched, by collecting it all would be impossible. Also, one of the young men has presented a interesting idea: he has speculated that since water sink into the ground there ought to be quite a lot of it down there, deep in the cool mud. Perhaps he could recieve some help in trying to dig it up?

The problem: Naturally, this too is regarding to stay or not. Will the tribe feel the coming drought by returning to the mountains? Or will the tribe risk staying? Perhaps the river won't dry completely, noone in the tribe knows for sure it will. Perhaps there are other ways to ensure a steady supply of water in the coming months?

Longwalkers(Wrathoflife)

The tribe spent the last few moons with a training session every morning, as a result the supplies have dwindled little. Mostly because there isn't as much time to gather food if some is spent practising. But it should not be a worry, there is still plenty of food and unless some sudden change in luck the trtibe will not starve.

The tribe have gotten increasingly skilled with weapons however, the men have become very skilled with their spears, and rather well built as well. The ones skilled with bow have grown more accurate and their shoulders seem to grow broader with every passing moon. Those who haven't had the physique needed for bowmanship first pracrised with stones, but then a rather clever young woman figured out that she could throw further using a small piece of skin as a tool. Since then the smaller tribesmen and women have used these slings to send small rocks flying with a startling force and accurancy.

This morning, you recieved word from one of the scouts that a tribe had been spotted a day away. Qualt had been with them and he confirmed that it was the wicked painted faces that had destroyed his former tribe.
Immidiatly the tribe started to discuss what to do with this, some claiming that the painted faces should be attacked before they would attack the longwalkers. Others claiming that it is too risky, and that the tribe should leave the tribe of ancestors.

The problem: The painted faces are close but the tribe is well equipped and strong. With the right tactic the raiders could probably be crushed and their supplies and prisoners liberated. On the other hand, they might have more experience and will severly damage the tribe. Perhaps even win.
Perhaps trying to negotiate with them is another possibility? A friendly word can go a long way after all.
Regardless of choice, the tribe will need guidance. If you go to war, what will you tell your tribe? If you negotiate, what will be negotiated for? If you leave, which way will you go?

People of the horse(krrth)

You walk through your new home, looking at how the tribe has accomodated themselves inside the caverns. Outside, the smaller children play in the mud of the riverbank, making crude structures and figures that dry and harden in the sun, while their parents hunt, fish and gather the food to be eaten in the coming moons. Some cutting down a tree on the slope to fill the supply of wood to burn at the evenings.

The only real problem for the tribe is the moist caverns that provide excellent shelter. It's a bit difficult to store the food due to the moisture, it rots a lot quicker when it becomes wet. It has not been an issue to the tribe yet, but they are a bit unsure on how to solve this.

The regular baskets are a bit to airy, allowing the moisture to reach the food. They could be stored outside, but that would allow animals to more easily try to steal food from them.

Problem: The tribe turns to you to try to find a way to solve this problem with the food. Looking for suggestions on how to make sure the food don't go bad from the moisture in the caverns.

Children of the fox(Raz Fox)

The land is slowly growing colder and colder and the good weather is slowly turning into rain. There is no doubt that autumn has come, but with autumn many trees and shrubs reveal the bounty they have been preparing all summer. Berries and fruits in abundance. The tribe will no doubt be able to spend the winter here.

The oldest of the hunters have done as you said, and is now prearing the young hunters-to-be to travel south for winter. They have hunted many beasts and given half to the winter supplies of the tribe and half they've kept for their own supplies.

One morning, merely a day before their departure, the elder hunter drags one of the young men chosen before you into your tent. The young boy, who cannot be much older than ten or so summers, bleeds from his nose and cries as the older gruff, frowning man drags him by his hair and throws him in front of you.

The elder then recounts furiously how the boy continously sneaks away from his hunters into the woods. Alone. How he steals from the tribe supplies and brings it with him. He has already punished the boy a few time, as is proper, but the boy refuses to listen to reason and now he wants to hear what you think should be done with the boy.

You managed to calm the elder hunter down a little and he agreed to allow you to talk to the boy alone. Once he had stepped out the boy began to tell you, between sobs, how he has tried to befriend some swine in the forest with the use of the small foodstuffs he's taken. Mostly old fruits and berries that make people funny when eaten. He thinks that if he's given more time instead of going south he could bring the swine closer to the tribe so they can help them all.

The problem: What is to be done with the boy? Should he be punished and forced to join the hunters, if no other reason but to set an example? Or perhaps should he be given the chance to allow him to prove he can control the swine? But then you'll have to figure out a way to convince the elder hunter, the man takes great pride in what he does and could be very insulted if you just take one of his boys from him.

Faera-Ri(Greystone)

You've brought your people upriver for many moons, travelling slowly as your supplies dwindle. A few days ago you found a place you think you can establish a proper camp on. About time too, it is only proper that the tribe resume gathering of food. The dryseason is not far away now.

The river is much, much wider here. In fact, the hunters claim that just half a days walk upriver lie a great lake fed by a waterfall. Supposedly at least twice the size of the largest open space they've ever seen.

Today one of the hunters are approaching you with an idea. He wants to take a few of the men and try to capture some of the birds living closeby and bring them here. To keep them around, alive, as a source of food in case the spirits would curse the tribe with poor luck in hunting.

The problem: The problem is that this venture could potentially take precious time away from gathering supplies and building proper shelter for the dry season. Having them spend their time fishing and building would possibly be a much better choice. However, the idea does have merit. It'd be food that doesn't go bad. Though it would need to be fed.

Those who wear seashells (Omnik)
The fishing is going much worse at night than at day. The fish is much harder to locate and it is difficult for the fishermen to find their way back to the shore. As it is now, the hunters rely on the fires in the camp to guide themselves back.

The food supplies have not dwindled however, the smaller amount of fish is being compensated with eggs and the flesh of the thief-birds (which doesn't taste very good... but food is food). But most of these birds nest in very inaccesible and sharp rocks, some far out at sea. It would seem they will remain a menace.

Meanwhile, the rafts are getting bigger and sturdier. The first ones did not last very long, falling apart after a few days. These new ones, cut out from the trunks using the sharp stones found farther up the coast, are much more stable and bigger. Allowing for much bigger hauls of fish. But fishing is still very hard work, most fishermen are exhausted when they come back to land. It's only thanks to the merciful spirits that the sea have not claimed any of them yet.

Last night, a group of twenty came walking along the shore. Approaching the tribe. They claim to have seen the fires from the camp and rafts at night and have come to investigate. Upon arriving they were in awe of the tribes mastery over the sea. They are inquiring if you would allow them to join the tribe and teach them how to swim and fish. In return they offer to lead your hunters to a hidden valley nearby, with countless of mountaingoats

The problem: Adding another twenty to the tribe will put a strain on the supplies until they've learned enough to help provide food. In addition, the tribe's wise man has told you in secret that he doesn't trust their leader. There's somethingabout his eyes... so very ambitious.
But if they do remain loyal and learn how to carry their own weight, then they could be a very useful addition and the mountaingoats could bring a much needed variety in food to the tribe, as well as the wool. But travelling far to hunt goats have risks of it's own of course.

[Elfin]

Those Who Wander

So many choices...so many changes. It was as if Jurrik's world was collapsing around him. Nigh on thirty rains had Jurrik ruled his tribe, but now he felt as a child blown about in the winds of fate.
A reward like this bountiful land could not forever last; surely the best choice was to resume the old ways. Hard times had been overcome, and now it was time to move on.
And yet...something nagged at the old chief's mind. Suppose the glory of the place-beside-the-river did last. Suppose it was an omen.
Suppose the tribe's wandering was at an end.

No. Jurrik had risked much already. He could not place the tribe's survival on the line with such a foolish bet.

Long the chieftan thought, as the sun sank and stars rose above him.
The gatherers returned, bearing fresh finds.
The women lulled their children asleep.
The elders wove their prophecies and cast the spirit bones.
The moon climbed the sky and shone with icy radiance.

Bathed in the moon's silvery glow, Jurrik felt as if he sat in the world when it was newly made, and about him spirits walked upon the earth.

And at last, he reached a decision.

The women and children, accompanied by half of the tribe's hunters, would climb the mountainside and bask in the cool slopes while below the dry season withered plants and rivers. But the men of the tribe would stay at the bountiful field and build more permanent dwellings; this way when the wet season returned the rest of the tribe could return here without having to spend time erecting a camp. The men could also gather extra stores from below even as the land died.

There was enough food for both groups; that would not be a problem - as for water, the men could try this idea of digging a pit.
And Jurrik had another idea. They could fill empty gourd and melon shells with water and store it - this way they'd have water even when the river was low!

It was a strange plan, making a permanent camp...but perhaps it could work.

[WrathOfLife]

Longwalkers; Ka'low

Moving quietly with the hunters Ka'low looks out at the evil painted faced tribe, there people had brought violence to the plains, and it will be with violence that there presence is removed.

Moving back to the tribe with the hunters, Ka'low addresses his people."Before us are the tribe of painted faces. The bringers of pain and suffering to our lands. We have a duty to all life to remove these most hated of people. Tonight we shall strike and live in fear no longer.

We shall wait till the moon is high, then our archers shall we remove any sentries. Should the alarm be raised, our spearmen will wait in ambush for the painted faces, who will surely try to charge our bowmen like a wild boar, and like the boar, they shall become stuck on the spears. Should we manage to maintain stealth, the spears shall advance, covered by the bowmen and slingers. Move softly as if hunting the deer, go into each dwelling, and kill any who hold weapons. Capture and bind the rest, for they shall be made slaves like they did to Qualt's people. Let them toil in the earth and burden themselves carrying water, under the watchful eyes of the Longwalkers. For we will not slaughter them, like they would us. We are better than them, we know the value of life." With that Ka'low looks about his people, hoping he had made the right choice.

Late in the night, Ka'low crouched with the spearmen, his own spear in hand. A lone bird whistle signaled the start of the attack, and the twang of bow string could be faintly heard. Moving in a low crouch the Longwalkers, walked to war.

OOC: Battle tactices are thus:
Attacking at midnight or close to,

Slingers (My name for the sling users, for lack of a better) and spearmen are to wait hidden in front of the archers.

Order being Archers, Slingers, Spearmen, some 100 ft, enemy camp.

Archers are to remove sentries and any awake members of the tribe.
IF alarm is raised, Slingers and Spearmen wait in ambush, while Archers continue to fire, once the enemy is close enough the Slingers are to let lose a volley, then the Spearmen will engage in close quarter fighting.

If stealth is maintained, Spearmen advance with Slingers to go dwelling to dwelling slaughtering any would be fighters in there sleep, and binding (including gagging) any others.

[Krrth]

Akteron, People of the Horse.


Again Akteron watched what his people were doing and pondering the problem. Noticing that the structures the children made out of mud seemed to harden and become somewhat sturdy, he ordered two projects. One project took the baskets that were being used to store food and spread mud around the outside to fill in the cracks. Hopefully doing so would keep the air from entering and thus the food would keep longer.

The second project was slightly more ambitious. He had the children with the most skill make containers completely out of mud. He offered extra food to the child, male or female, that could make the sturdiest container.

[Raz_Fox]

Liadan sat before the embers, pondering, as Ciala rubbed at his red eyes. The young boy's cheeks were dry now, and he waited in agonizing suspense for the wise kafili to pass judgment on him.

Finally, she spoke. "Child, you should have come and told me of this immediately, that I might have warned you. Washilo, Chief of the Pigs, is a jealous spirit. If you brought his people into our home, he might have spoken with Dailano Who Lives In Sky to bring his roaring and fury down on our heads, or convinced Shieashilami to ruin the berries in our huts." She reached out, caught the boy's chin in her firm grip, made him look into her eyes. "I will have to appease him now, to make sure that he has not already grown angry because of your actions. I may have to spend an entire day awake, praying to him and the Chieftain of All Forests, offering up a sacrifice to appease them." She sighed, closing her eyes for a moment, before looking at Ciala again with disappointment in her face. "You will go with the hunters when the moon rises again. If I hear but a single word against you from Balanis when you have returned, I will call you up before the entire tribe, that they may hear your shame. And if you ever meddle in the ways of the spirits in such a way again, I will not protect you from their wrath. Now go."

[Aux-Ash]

Those who wander

Digging the pit was hard work for all involved, particulary in the heat that the dryseason brought with it's arrival. Many of the men complained loudly about aching backs, blistered hands and how they missed the women during the long days spent moving dirt.

But as the pit grew deeper, the soil grew moister and the mens spirits slowly lifted. Not only was the air cooler in the shade of the pit, but so was the the very dirt they dug in. It did not take long before many of them men would volountarily seek themselves into the pit as the day reached it's hottest point.

As the diggin went on, the men who were resting from the heavy work would help emptying gourds and shells, leaving them to dry in the sun for a while before filling them with water. They did not make particulary good containers but it was better than nothing.

Eventually, after several moons hard labour the men finally reached a water level in the pit. Despite that the river had almost completely dried up by then the water in the well was cool and waistdeep and perfectly drinkable. Much celebration followed on that evening.

Those who wander beneath the sun has established a well

Problem: One of the men approached you during the celebration and said he wanted to talk to you about the well. He was one of the older men remaining and says that in his years he has seen how still water go foul if people spend too much time near it.
He suggests that you order the tribe to establish a wooden "roof" over the well with a small hole in it and that the tribe fetches water by lowering the shells into it rather than go down to it.
This would make collecting water from the well much more troublesome and many of the men would be annoyed they can't sit in the pit and cool themselves off. If he is right however, it could save many lives since foul water is very deadly.

Longwalkers

The attack took the painted faces completely by surprise, their sentries could barely cry out in warning before they were killed by spear, arrow or stone. Many drowzy hunters looked out of their tents only to find a enraged longwalker standing next to them, brutally killing them in the next second.

As the fight dragged on some of the painted faces managed to get a hold of the situation and rally behind their chieftain in trying to drive off the invaders. Fighting bravely and with much experience, many fell before the last group of painted faces who resisted. They fought fiercly to the dawn but eventually they were all killed by the longwalkers.

As the sun rose, the extent of the fighting became clear. The brown soil was dark red from all the blood and there lay bodies everywhere. The air was filled with the screams of the wounded and the dying, and the howls of sorrow from those that had survived.

All in all, two dozen longwalkers had died or would die due to the attack. But over four dozen painted faces were dead. But most of the painted faces had surrendered, over twice the number of dead on both sides had been taken as slaves. And another three dozen slaves had been freed from the painted faces. In one night, the amount of people under Ka'lows power had almost
doubled.

The remaining painted faces were quickly subdued and forced to gather food for the longwalkers. They were not allowed near any weapons, restricted to gather root, seed and berry. At first the mood among the longwalkers were merry, they had proven themselves to be strong and now they did not have to work as hard anymore. But soon tempers began to flare, disagreements were quickly resolved with bout of violence and the mood of the camp was deteriorating.

The longwalkers have adopted slavery

Problem: One of the most prominent issues seems to be regarding ownership over the captured painted faces. In one case in particular, two of the stronger spearmen both became interested in the same woman. Over the course of the past week they have argued loudly several times and this morning a fight started between them.

You managed to separate them without any spilling of blood, but it is clear: The tribe needs a system regarding the slaves, one that determines ownership and states what is accepted behavior regarding them and what is not. The tribe now look to how you solve will solve this issue they have never seen before.

People of the horse

The covering the baskets with mud had varying results, in some cases it was met with some success. But in most of the cases the mud itself proved to be too wet and most of these baskets were ruined.

The other project however, was turning out quite interesting. Motivated by the promise of additional food the children worked hard to create a acceptable container. At first it did not go to well, and many of the younger children soon lost interest and returned to just playing. Among the older ones however, some began to experiment with different shapes and different ways to dry the mud. Soon they began to try drying their creations next to the fire instead of in the sun, with much success.

In the three moons since various forms of clay creations have been created, mostly bowls and figurines but also some simple pots. These creation have helped a little with the moisture. Protecting the food a little bit longer. Their creations are still a bit too simple to be fully practical but you suspect that their creators will need lots more experience.

The people of the horse have begun developing pottery

Problem: One of your young creators have come before you with a proposal. He think that he could make better pots if he had access to a hotter fire, but the tribe cannot make fire burn hotter. But he speculates that if you could trap the heat from a fire like a tent does with the warmth from a person. The problem is that neither wood, skin or clay can handle such high temperatures but that the tribe would need to use rocks.

The amount of rocks needed would require many days of extremely heavy labour and that most of the hunters help him with that instead of hunt. He thinks it will greatly benefit the forming of the clay, but the question is if it is worth it.

Children of the fox

Autumn has come and gone. The hunters are long gone, including the boy Ciala who after meeting you made no further trouble. It is a bit lonely without them and there is no question that their families miss the lot of them. As the temperature began to drop it became clear that the tents was not made for this weather and since then the tribe have worked hard to reinforce them with thicker walls. Using skin, mud and furs to keep the warmth in. Overall the entrances to every tent is now smaller and the insides warmer.

The stores are well filled though and you are quite certain that they will easily last through the winter. The tribe might run out of meat before the hunters return, but not for any longer period of time. You have made sure many times that all the berries and fruits are kept safely inside the tents and that the sturdier seeds are kept easily available in big bags but protected from snow and rain.

One night as the tribe was about to head for bed a phenomenon appeared in the night sky. What seemed like a great river of colours passed in the sky, illuminating the entire landscape. Casting eerie shadows between the trees. The tribe was worried and looked to you and the elders for a explanation, but a feeling told you that it was completely harmless.

Problem:
A day after that, a young girl came walking with her arms full of thick warm wool which she gave to her mother. The young girl cannot have been much older than four or five summers and when questioned she says that her brother gave it to her.

The boy appeared later carrying even more wool which he also handed over to her mother. At the time you were a bit busy and could not question him, but had planned it for the next day. But as the sun rose next morning you saw how the boy sneaked off into the dark.

You followed the boy (who, incidentally, is Ciala's younger brother) and eventually you reached a glade with a huge herd of wild sheep. You then saw the child gently walk into the huge flock and then as the beasts woke up and became worried at his presence he managed to calm them with little more than a touch. After which he proceeded to cut wool from the sheep with a sharp stone knife, just a little at a time. Not robbing any sheep of much wool.

Eventually he gathered the small bundles in his arms and began walking home. The he encountered you and now he stands before you, his arms filled with wool,staring at you with wide eyes frozen in what seems to be terror.

[Krrth]

People of the Horse

Akteron looked at the youth. The promise of being able to create sturdy containers for food, and possible water, weighted on his mind. It was a risk for the tribe, for any who helped could injure themselves severely. Finally Akteron came to a decision and spoke.

You need the hunters help in order to build this new thing?

Very well. The hunters will help you. If you succeed, you will be rewarded. If you fail, you will be required to help the other hunters with their hunts until their time has been paid back.

Turning to the rest of the tribe, he spoke again.

Help him as you can. The women and children will provide food for the workers. Extra food will be provided to anyone who can come up with an easier way to move the rocks.