Missionary of the Moon Mother (IC Thread)

[tigerusthegreat]

The ship from Regus, capital of the Empire, was not comfortable. You stretch your legs, still stiff a few days later from the rigors of sea. The head of the Temple of New Regus, the largest port on the island, has given you orders. You are to investigate and attempt missionary work with the savages to the south. You have been given free reign how to do this, a sign of great respect.

The island is about ten miles long and another eight wide. The southern edge is mountainous, dotted with hills and caves that the savages live in. About two thirds of the island is under military control, and a band of small forts and outposts hold that line against the militant savages. They have been quiet for the last dozen years or so, since their last major uprising was crushed soundly by a few of the Archmages of Andinuth.

The savages are strange. They worship the sun as a diety, but are primarily nocturnal...indeed none have been seen outside during the day since the last major uprising. Their womenfolk are only theorized at as none have been seen. Still they are tenacious, and are not to be underestimated. Three times they have almost obliterated the attempts at colonization, and had the Archmages not been present, it would have been four times. One thing is certain, it is doubtful they will welcome you with open arms. Some have been heard to speak common, but mostly they speak their own gutteral language.

(please link your character sheet in the first post)

[Volos]

Wolfgang (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=282870), having no great love of sea travel, was overjoyed to be returned to the firm land upon his arrival to New Regus. He knew that the Blessed Moon watched over the seas and that no harm would come to him, but that was of little comfort to his stomach on the high seas. After receiving his orders and taking time to outfit himself for the journey ahead of himself, Wolfgang headed out. He had no gold for a horse or mule and even less to pay for his transport, so he did as people had done for centuries. He walked. Trusting in the empire to keep the roads safe of monsters or stray savages, he did not expect to run afoul of any sort of trouble on his way to one of the border towns on the very edge of the Empire's area of control on this savage island. While walking, he prayed to the Moon Mother for her guidance. How was he to reach these people who were already so backward and uncivilized? Even early man knew of the moon's power, and by that virtue they learned of the White Enchantress. Surely he could reach these poor people, and if he couldn't reach them with words he could show the power of his faith and the boons granted him by the Blessed Moon. If they truly believed in this heretical sun god, why are they only seen at night? It was a puzzle to him, but one he couldn't solve now so he put it to the back of his mind. Wolfgang was wearing his traveling outfit, not wishing to dirty his clerical vestments with the dust and mud of the common road or path. His armor, shield, and even a symbol around his neck proved him as a Cleric of the most Blessed Moon for better or worse.

[tigerusthegreat]

The roads are fairly crowded with the common people. Many are poor looking farmers or laborers, but they nod in respect to you, as a cleric of their god. Everything seems peaceful, until you notice ahead one such commoner yelling at an armed man in the livery of the local feudal lord. The argument seems to be coming close to blows.

[Volos]

As respect is shown to him by the common people of the road, Wolfgang in turn speaks blessings on their behalf. "May the Blessed Moon watch over you as you slumber.", "The Moon Mother smiles upon you.", and "The White Maiden knows you woes, tonight she will hear you prayer." are all commonly said to the people in an effort to raise their spirits or to strengthen their faith. The cleric would be rather happy with his work as he continued on his path. When he saw the conflict of a common man and an armed man, Wolfgang rushed forward to intervene in what was taking place. "In the name of all that is holy and blessed, stop what you are doing!" If at all possible he would attempt to place himself between the two who were about to come to blows, but if it was not possible then he would run as quickly as he could to get there faster.

[tigerusthegreat]

Your interruption stops the argument cold. The commoner won't meet your eyes, but the soldier doesn't show such respect. "This matter isn't any of your concern, priest. This fellow was about to be going." The soldier stares down the commoner, who looks up at you, then back to the guard, doing nothing.

[Volos]

"Any who are loved by the Blessed Moon are of my concern. Please, I meant no disrespect but I wish to know what has happened here." Wolfgang had his shield on his arm, but it was lowered and not presented to either defend or attack. He had no intention of fighting a solider of the empire, but he might defend the commoner if the cause was just. "What could this man have done to cause you bring arms against him?" Wolfgang attempted to assess the situation while waiting for the solider to answer him.

Sense Motive [roll0]

[tigerusthegreat]

"Please, sirrah, this man is one of the guards that is supposed to protect our farms from the savages. Two nights ago, those savages raided and burned my farm to the ground. Only by luck did I get out, and my wife and daughter were not so lucky. I have nothing left, sirrah, I want justice and compensation for my loss. The Empire promised us that it would be safe, and it is clearly not. Had I known, I would have remained on the mainland, and would still have my small grain exchange and my family would be alive."

"As I tried to explain to this fool, we are not responsible for him settling in a dangerous area. He lives beyond the forts, beyond the area we patrol, and his presence is most likely what drove the sun worshippers to attack."

[Volos]

Wolfgang would wait until both men had spoken before responding. He had his own mission to think of, but this could be considered part of it if handled correctly. Taking only a moment to gather the courage required to speak in a confident manner, he would say, "Solider, what fort do you hail from? I would see maps of the area you claim to protect in regards to where this man's home is currently located. If it was outside of your protection, then some warning should have been given when he and his family settled here. I would speak to your Captain if you are unwilling to cooperate, and the Head of the Temple of New Regus whose orders I am currently under." He hoped that the reason within his words along with the gentle threat of reprisal from those of higher rank would convince the solider to aid him as he asked.

[tigerusthegreat]

"By all means speak to the Captain, its by his orders we no longer patrol beyond the forts. This fool was warned when we stopped patrolling that we wouldn't be in the area any more, and he decided to stay with his farm against our advice."

"Would you give up everything you had one the suspicion of a Captain that doesn't set foot outside his fortress? I appealed to the Governor to resume the patrols, but I wasn't going to loose my house and crops to looters in the meantime."

[Volos]

The cleric sighed softly, trying to keep it from both the commoner and the Solider. It seems that this situation is more complicated than I thought. Wolfgang took a few moments to think before responding, "How much time was the man given to vacate his home and to move his family elsewhere? Was there sufficient time for you to make your appeal to the Governor? And what suspicion was it that caused the Captain to stop the patrols in the first place?" Wolfgang was already thinking of other questions, but they would have to wait. Am I the only cleric nearby? If so I will offer to perform last rites for his family.

[tigerusthegreat]

"We offered them escort out, he refused. After that, he had whatever time he wished to stay or leave, it was none of our business. I also don't know my Captain's mind, if I did I suspect I'd have a higher rank by now."

"He speaks truthfully, they offered escort into safe territory, but also gave us no indication things were more hazardous, just that the patrols would be stopping. I've gotten the governor's response, I met the mail carriage on my way here, it says that the defense of the land beyond the fortifications is at the discretion of the Captain of the Defense. I am heading to the Governor himself to make him say it to my face, and know what has been done. This fool thinks it is not a good idea, and that is where you became involved."

[Volos]

This time it doesn't take Wolfgang very long to think of a response. He speaks clearly and calmly, so as to not anger either party. "If they told you the patrols were stopping and offered to lead you into safe territory, would that not cause you pause? If guards of the Empire offered to escort the family of a common man, that would be a rare and unexpected occurrence. If they denied to explain to you what was going on, then the fault may lay with them for you being unaware of the danger you were in... but you should have taken their offer if you had even the smallest suspicion that something was wrong. I am sorry for the loss of your daughter and wife; and if you would allow it... I would like to give them their last rites, if you haven't already had a cleric do so. The Moon Mother is waiting for them to be returned to her gentle embrace, and that should be our priority before discovering who is to blame for their passing." Wolfgang was genuinely contrite for this man and what happened to his family, it was the first time he had to deal with death since leaving his home temple. This moment wasn't shocking, but the emotions that came with it were very powerful. Rather than deny them, he accepted each one and used them in their full capacity without restraining them to show that he truly cared for this child of the most Blessed Moon.

[tigerusthegreat]

Your response swiftly shuts the commoner's mouth, but he agrees to lead you to the remains of his house to perform rites for his family.

[Volos]

Wolfgang is as gentle as possible with the man as they head toward his home, but concidering that the home was raided by the savages he keeps an eye out for any ambush while also trying to get an idea of how the savages attacked. A missionary would need to know what he would be defending himself against if it came to that.

[tigerusthegreat]

The savages came in the middle of the night...they aren't seen during the day. The man only saw two shadowy figures, but there could have been more. His house was ablaze before he became fully awake, and the savages ran away without bothering to raid or pillage anything of value from the farm, they just were intent on burning it.

After a fairly long walk, you pass the fortresses guarding the road. The road ends a short distance later, and you continue on a path that is just beginning to be worn into the grass. You don't see any other people, but wildlife is in abundance. Soon you arrive at a burned out husk of a house. Neat rows of crops are still growing alongside it, except where they have been scorched by the flames. There are two graves behind the house with simple wooden markers bearing the names of Candace and Olivia. It is clear that Olivia is the child, as the dirt is disturbed there is a few few feet less in length than the other.

[Volos]

Wolfgang takes note of how far away the house was from the Fort, and that the savages did not take anything but instead just burnt the house to the ground. He prepares a simple ceremony for the dead, taking special care to pray for the spirit of Olivia as she was but a child. He feels anger toward those who caused this tragedy, but keeps it away from the rites that he is performing. He asks that the White Maiden take both of them into her care as they pass from this world to the next.

Knowledge (Religion) [roll0] to perform a proper ceremony as well as to say the proper prayers for a child who has passed before her time.

Also what moon phase is it currently? It would be rather centric to my methods of worship.

[tigerusthegreat]

It was about a mile from the forts. The moon is currently full and waning. You manage to speak the proper rites, and the man thanks you for your service. He hurries back the way you came, trying to get back to the secured areas while the sun still shines (its about 2 pm, sunset at 6)

[Volos]

Wolfgang attempts to look for signs of where the savages may have come from before heading back toward the fort himself. He doesn't expect to find much, and would need to ask around at the fort or other secured areas as to what as known about the savages. As he searches, Wolfgang wonders why the savages attacked a peaceful farmer. Were they truly that aggressive of a people that they couldn't leave a man to tend his fields?

Search [roll0]
If needed Spot [roll1] & Listen [roll2]

[tigerusthegreat]

You find no signs of the savages. You trip back to the nearest fort is uneventful, and the lieutenant in charge there offers you an empty space in the barracks for the night.

[Volos]

Wolfgang asks to have an audience with the Captain of the Fort in the morning, under the pretense to learn what his knows of the savages of this region. He thanks the lieutenant for the empty space, offering to perform a worship service for the fort on the next holy day if they don't have their own priest. Though why they would not is entirely beyond Wolfgang. Unless the Captain can see him that night, Wolfgang would offer prayer to the Blessed Moon before going to bed. He expressed his sorrow that her cycle was past its fullness and that she was waning to the end of her cycle while still having hope for the wisdom that could be imparted in her time as the elderly crone.

[tigerusthegreat]

The night passes quickly, and in the morning you are informed that the Captain has arrived to inspect the fort, and your request for an audience has been granted, however, your meeting will have to coincide with him inspecting the fort.

When you are ready, you meet him on the parapet as he patrols the outer wall of the fortress. He is an older man, missing his left eye and with a horible scar through where it was, going all the way down to his chin. He has clearly seen action at some time. "My lieutenant here said you would have a word with me. What can I do for a servant of the White Sorceress?"

[Volos]

Speaking in his most respectful tone, Wolfgang says, "You have my gratitude Captain. I am honored by this audience." With the formability out of the way, Wolfgang turns to his true purpose. "The head of the Temple in New Regus has given orders that I become a missionary to the savages. I know it will be a difficult task, but at least if we attempt to show them the truth in her word, we cannot be held in blame if they do not accept it and force our hand. I have been given the freedom to conduct myself, in regards to my orders, as I see fit. It is a great honor for me. If you have any information about the savages, where they live, some details of their false faith, or what weaponry they have it will aid me in my mission." He notices the terrible scar that marks the Captain's face, and decides to use it to his advantage. "Any advice you may have for me in terms of martial matters would also be welcomed."

[tigerusthegreat]

"Not much to say about them. They live in the caves to the south, hide during the day, and only come out at night. They don't farm, per se, sustain themselves mostly by their boar herds and hunting. We haven't seen much of them in the last few years, since the last war really."

He is quiet for a few minutes. "You're here about the farms that have been burnt. It is an unfortunate happening, and weighs heavily on my heart, but suspending the patrols was necessary. The Governor is asking me to provoke these savages into a battle, and to wipe them out. The longer I can avoid that confrontation, the better for both our people. I hope you can convert, or at least start a dialogue with them, otherwise another great war will start soon. Do you know of Orgristin?" He shakes his head. "Of course you wouldn't, you are new here. Orgristin is a cougar. She was large when she was captured, and she was trained, tortured, and magically enhanced by the Archmages to be unleashed upon the savages. She's done a fair job too, and is probably one of the reasons they were so quiet. Anyway, one of my rangers found the skinned, rotting carcass of a large cougar, larger than any he's seen. It has to be Orgristin."

He stares down at the southern horizon. "Thing is, none of their hunters would leave most of a carcass out to rot. There's only one time they would do that, and that's when one of their adolescents becomes a man. The skin is taken to be made into a shield, but the carcass is left as a tribute to their gods. The mages thought that Orgristin wouldn't be able to be killed by less than twenty skilled warriors, especially because they use obsidian blades. Those aren't even supposed to be able to cut the magically reinforced hide the beast had. If this was a manhood ritual, then one lone boy killed it. One warrior that is that powerful is a problem. He will probably become chief of one of their twelve tribes, and that itself can lead to a war with us. Anytime the savages feel powerful, they attack."

[Volos]

Wolfgang walks with the Captain, paying careful attention to all that is said by him. He seems interested, if somewhat appauled, by the rituals of the savages regarding the hide shield. He allows the Captain to finish his tale before speaking again. "Do the savages have any access to magics of any form, be they arcane or divine? If so, they could have disenchanted Orgristin before this boy killed her. If she was the cougar that was killed would the enchantment of her hide remain past her death? If so, then that would be a terrible tool for the savages to wield. I will try my best to convert those I can, but from what I hear they don't even speak a langauge I can understand. The Blessed Moon will guide me as she sees fit, I only hope that her gaze is not blocked by the hertical acts of these barbaric people." Wolfgang gives a heavy sigh, worried for the people of the empire as well as his own safety amoung these violent and unreasonable savages.

[tigerusthegreat]

"From what I remember, they never had any flashy magic on the battlefield. From what I understand, their religion is a sort of shamanism, and if they worship the sun I imagine they have some sort of priests or holy men. From what I understand of their rituals, disenchanting Orgristin would be the same as someone helping the hunter. It would violate their rituals. I don't have much knowledge of magic, but I imagine if the hide was tough on the creature it would be tough as a shield. One thing these savages have is a unique crafting of hide shields. I have three in my collection from the last war."

[Volos]

Wolfgang seems deep in thought as the Captain speaks, but his attention is still on what is being said. When it is mentioned that the toughness of the cougar could be transferred to the shield, he shakes his head and sighs again. "They value the strength of the individual, that does make sense for such a primal people. If they have their own priests, it will be difficult to preach the faith of the Moon Mother to them. Not to mention I may end up confronted by a priest or holy man if they discover what I am doing. If it is not too much trouble Captain, could you describe these Shields to me? Or perhaps allow me to see one? Knowing what I am going up against would help me greatly. If there are symbols or artwork I can decipher, it could lead to a greater understanding of their culture and could give me a starting point to work from. Or it could allow me to identify certain rank amongst them." The cleric seems somewhat excited to learn more while still sounding hateful of them. It almost sounded like he was eager to ‘defeat’ the false faith of the (Un)Holy Fire.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Those shields are back in New Regus, I won't be heading back there until tomorrow, and you seem eager to get on with your mission. I can't say I understand how the shields are made, but they are sturdy. They decorate them with the symbols of their clan. The three I am from bear a black man-like symbol outlined with red paint that looks like an engulfing flame. From what I understand, that is now one of their lesser clans. There are twelve of them. As per rank amongst them, the ones in command had the strongest shields, implying that they are led by the strongest among them. Which means the one that slew Orgristin is most likely on his way to becoming a Chieftain."

OOC: Consequently this is one of my favorite settings, which is why I use it very rarely.

[Volos]

Wolfgang seems satisfied with this, so he turns to the captain and offers his hand in a friendly but still respectful gesture. It was one where two men would grasp the forearm of the other. "I see, that will aid me in identifying those who have the greatest respect. With my steel shield, they may view me as an important or powerful man from the 'outsiders' as we must appear to them. That should help me in trying to connect with them. Well, I thank you for your help Captain. I now understand why the patrols had to be pulled back, on order of the Governor. Though if only the people had listened... your men did tell them it was going to become dangerous, or did they not?" This would be Wolfgang's final query before leaving to find the savages and attempt to convert them.

[tigerusthegreat]

"The ones that were here through the last war knew that if we were leaving, they had better to. The ones that only knew peace were too foolish to listen to my men. I wish you luck, maybe we can avoid bloodshed. If it comes to that, I will be forced to wipe them out, no matter the cost to me or my men. I have my orders."

[Volos]

"As I have mine. This fort will be the first to hear of my success or failure Captain, may the Blessed Moon watch over you always." With that he starts his journey, leaving the fort with what minor provisions he already has with him. Unless anyone stops him, he heads out in the direction described by the Captain. He hopes for the best, but trusts in the Moon Mother to guide him.

[tigerusthegreat]

You travel out of the fort and head south. The terrain quickly goes from grassland to hills, and the mountains to the south rise quickly. Travelling becomes difficult, as there are no roads or paths that you can discern. After a short while you see roving bands of pigs, surely a sign that you are coming near the savages. Squinting, you can see a sheer cliff ahead, dug out of the smallest of a mountain chain, with what seems to be a cavern entrance in front. The dirt in front of it looks worn, as if many people had come in and out of it over the years.

[Volos]

Having little to no idea of how he should approach these people, he walks closer toward the entrance of the cavern while giving the pigs a wide berth. Not disturbing or even approaching their animals would probably be best. He keeps his shield on his arm, but aside from the spikes on it he wouldn't honestly appear armed in the sense that the savages would understand, or so he hoped. The previous night he prayed to the White Enchantress, asking for insight to these people. During that time he was granted access to a spell that would aid him in understanding the language of these people, even if it would not impart the ability to speak it himself. It was the same spell he prepared the day before, but had not the chance to use since the Captain's shields were back in New Regus. He kept his eyes and ears busy, looking for any sign of the people who lived here. Only at this point would Wolfgang suddenly remember that the savages only come out at night. It was an odd practice for a people who worshiped the sun itself, one would think they would want to commune with their false god as often as possible.

Spot [roll0]
Listen [roll1]

OCC: I can tell it's your favorite, with how much detail and work you've put into it. I have a setting that I've developed that is as important to me, and it always shocks my players when they learn something new about it, as it shocks and inspires me when I learn new things about yours.

[tigerusthegreat]

You see a dark figure in the entrance of the cave. He does not appear to make any aggressive moves towards you yet. The darkness in the cave entrance makes it hard to discern anything about him.

OOC: Yeah, I've put a fair amount of thought into this setting...unlike some of my other settings where I just kinda go with it, connecting things as I go, usually intentionally proving or disproving player's ideas as I go. Makes for a more gamey experience rather than an organic one...but it serves.

Also, do you have a problem with this becoming heavily a RP/diplomacy game or combat game, depending on how things go?

[Volos]

Wolfgang shows no fear and with his faith in the Blessed Moon being so strong, he truly has none. He continues walking closer, allowing the mark of the Moon Mother on his shield, armor, and holy symbol show. His free hand is empty, showing that he is not here to fight and bears no weapons. He calls out to the figure standing at the mouth of the cavern entrance, "Hail! I am Wolfgang, Cleric of the Blessed Moon. Do you understand me?" He smiles, but is careful to keep his lips closed. Showing his teeth could be a challenge to such a savage people. Unless he can manage to gain their trust for long enough to touch one of them, Wolfgang won't be able to cast the spell that would aid him in comprehending their speech.

[tigerusthegreat]

You can clearly see now a second figure behind the first. You hear a gutteral whispering between the two, and the second runs further into the cavern. Minutes later, a torch is brought forward, illuminating the area. You see now that the first figure has a sword in his hand and shield on his arm. The shield is made of a brown fur-covered leather, a symbol much like what the Captain described painted on it. He appears to be human, or at least humanoid enough that, if bathed and his hair trimmed, might pass as a member of the Empire. He wears what appears to be sewn deer hide clothing. The figure that comes up behind him is taller, and bears no shield nor sword. His clothing is made out of actual cloth, though a coarse kind, and on his chest is the same symbol painted. These two talk as well, but seem unsure of what to do with you.

[Volos]

After observing that the two have conversed and obtained weaponry for the one in front, Wolfgang decides on his course of action. He lowers his shield, waiting to see how the two savages react to this. He speaks again, hoping that if they even know a few of his words they'd catch on. "I've come to talk, not to fight. But I will defend myself if you insist to strike at me." He stands with his arms spread wide, showing that he is not armed. If this doesn't work, he'll try his best to bring shield back to the ready as soon as he can.

OCC: I'm fine with whatever this game evolves into. If I end up fighting, then I will fight. If diplomacy is called for, I will try my best to use my words and actions to convince the savages (or anyone else) of what I have to say. I'm a well rounded gamer. I enjoy RP, combat, diplomacy, or mysteries equally. Not knowing what is coming is what makes it so much fun to begin with. Whatever this game becomes, I'm probably going to be fine with it. If something about it bothers me then I will let you know. Though that is very unlikely.

[tigerusthegreat]

The man without a sword taps the other on the shoulder. He lowers his weapon, and slings his shield onto his back. The other man then says something, pointing to you and to the shield on the mans back. He then points deeper into the caves.

You do not see any archers or ranged weapons nearby, but the entrance to the cavern is still only dimly lit by the torch.

[Volos]

Taking the lead from the savages, Wolfgang puts his shield onto his back where he normally stores it during long journeys. He approaches with both hands raised and empty. His armor came with gauntlets, so he was still armed if he became ambushed. He considered his options, but figured this was for the best. He had to earn their trust after all. If the men seem accepting of his current state, he will begin to approach them very slowly.

[tigerusthegreat]

Both men retain their solemn looks. A third is waiting just inside the cavern, his shield on his back, his sword in a swordbelt. The armed man wears clothing similar to the first you saw. The man in rough cloth signals for you to follow him, and leads you into the caves. The second armed man follows behind you. It is clear they do not trust you.

You are led through the caves. You see very few people, those that you do see seem to be guards, similar to the one following you. You travel through the twisting caves for at least a half hour, and are not certain you could find your way out. Finally, the cave opens up into a larger cavern. You hear running water coming from somewhere, but cannot tell where. There is a long table carved out of the stone, along with long stone benches. Several children, clad in soft deer skin, stand up when you enter. They bring something towards the table, and you realize they are setting the table. The man motions for you to sit, and sits across from where he pointed. Before the seat is placed a pair of mugs, with some dark liquid in them, and a plate of something coarse that looks like a cake or bread of some sort. The man rips a piece off the end and eats it, before pushing the plate towards you. He also pours the contents of your cup into his, swirls it, then refills yours from his, and drinks out of his cup.

[Volos]

Wolfgang would hide his worry from these people, not being entirely comfortable with going so deep into a series of unknown caves. What kept him from panicking was faith that the Blessed Moon was watching over him along with the tactical knowledge he was gaining by seeing such sights. If they were so entrenched, it would be most difficult to root them out completely. Or had they adopted this style of living because of the wars? Before he could finish that thought, he was brought to the room with the stone table. Wolfgang couldn't help but show surprise when presented with food and drink from what he would assume was the leader of this tribe. He would remove his gauntlets and attempt to touch the man's hand as the food or drink was given to him. This was not only a sign of trust, but an attempt to obtain the touch required for his spell to work. If he could not manage it, he wouldn't press the issue. He could purify the food and drink with his divine magic, but he decided not to. Wolfgang smiles and takes a large bite of the bread, and also take a deep drink of the dark liquid. He watches for the other man's reaction to all of this.

[tigerusthegreat]

The man seems put at ease both by you drinking and eating, and by you taking off your gauntlets. The bread is gritty, made out of some coarser grain than wheat, and the drink tastes faintly like wine, but with strange flavors that you have not tasted before. The two children stare at you from the side of the room, clearly you are a sight to behold. As you sit and eat you get a chill, like someone is watching you. Surely enough, out of the corner of your eye you see a man, also wearing cloth instead of deerskin, standing in the shadows watching you. You cannot see his face.

The man across from you speaks up. He points to his chest. "Bashran. Baaaaasssshhraaaaaaaan." He repeats it slower.

[Volos]

Eats the meal slowly, but he does his best to appear to enjoy it. It wasn't hard, considering that he hadn't eaten since earlier that day. He would ignore the children, seeing them as of no consequence. The sudden presence of the man in the shadows unsettles Wolfgang. How long had he been standing there for, and if he hadn't wanted to be seen how much longer could he have remained hidden? That was something else to conceder when he returned to the fort. The cleric couldn't help but smirk when the man he was eating with spoke slowly and pointed at his chest in such a manner. Now I'm being treated like the uneducated savage. Wolfgang speaks up in turn, pointing to the man. "Bashran." He wouldn't get the man's name right the first time, but at least he could try. In turn, Wolfgang pointed to himself, more toward his face rather than his chest so as to avoid confusion with the symbol of the Blessed Moon or perhaps even his armor. "Wolfgang. Woooolllffgaaannngg." He mimics the manner in which the man introduced himself, trying his best not to chuckle at the way in which they had to communicate.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Wolfgang" He says, pointing to you, and smiling. He seems puzzled, then tries something else. He points to the symbol on his clothing. "Pysora." He waves to the cavern around him. "Pysora-nehso".

[Volos]

Wolfgang points all around, as the other man did. "Pysora-nehso" Then he points to the man's chest, "Pysora." He takes another sip of wine, obviously enjoying it. Wolfgang points to his chest while holding his holy symbol at the same time. "Blessed Moon." He smiles, trying to be as friendly as possible.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Banae lunin" He says at first. It seems that he recognizes what the symbol depicts. "Blessed Moon." he repeats. It seems like you are getting through, a bit at least. However, without at least some magical assistance, you will have a lot of trouble getting through. These people are clearly not bloodthirsty, at least not if unprovoked.

[Volos]

"Banae lunin? ...ah! Blessed Moon!" Wolfgang seems excited that this connection has been made between them. Even learning two words of their language was enough to make him hopeful for more. He soon finishes the last few bites of his drink, and a good deal of the wine. Unable to think of a better plan, Wolfgang slowly stands and walks to the side of the table. Wolfgang utters a few words while a bit of soot and a few grains of salt, freshly procured from his spell component pouch, is held between the thumb and forefinger of his left hand. A few words are muttered as silently as possible. He calls to the 'leader' or 'diplomat' that he had been eating with. "Bashran?" He offers his empty hand, taking a half step closer. He hopes to obtain contact with the man in some fashion, allowing his spell to become complete. This would also aid him in reading the symbol on the man's chest as well as any other words or symbols in the room.

[tigerusthegreat]

The symbol on the man's chest is a symbol meaning "Flaming Spirit." As you touch him to enact the spell, he seems put on edge.

"What are you doing, Wolfgang? Your moon magic will not work against us, we are warded here in Flaming Spirit Hold. What are you trying, slave of the cursed moon?" You recognize some of the words before your magic translates them. Banae Lunin is apparently Cursed Moon. Pysora is Flaming Spirit, and Nesho is apparently Hold or Home.

OOC: I can keep this sort of thing up, but I would rather not invent a whole new language just to have you translate it back to english. Assume any words said to you, you can repeat and make yourself understood in a pidgin fashion.

[Volos]

Wolfgang seems slow on the uptake, but he responds eventually while probably still getting some words wrong. "Moon magic works. Not against you. Your ward will not work, I am of the Blessed Moon. Wolfgang not slave. Why is Blessed Moon cursed to you?" He could only use words he heard up until now, which made things most difficult. Wolfgang was interested to see the man's reaction to the magic apparently working.


OOC: I found a D&D language translator that can have randomly seeded languages. You could pick the 'Custom' setting, make a seed number, and just have at it. It also has many other languages, which is fun too. Here is the link (http://www.tilansia.com/langconvert.php) if you are interested.

[tigerusthegreat]

"The Holy Fire in the Sky blesses and protects us. Our flames burn bright with its might. The cursed moon is a pale shadow of the Kindler of Life. Your cursed moon magic murdered Tralatar the stoneskin, and your people slay ours unprovoked. Your white witch is an abomination and affront to the Holy Fire. When the warrior, priest, and seer return, you will see what is true and what is lies spoken by your lying goddess." He is visibly angry now.

[Volos]

Wolfgang stands his ground, but does not share in the anger of his host, nor does he see himself as the man's better. He tries to speak calming words, unsure of how this conversation became so hostile. "We slay unprovoked? I was not here, I did not know. Moon Mother blesses and protects, but does not slay. She does not lie. I speak true, I knew not of Stoneskin Tralatar or his slaying. I do not lie about Holy Fire, why do you say Blessed Moon is abomination and other lies? If we talk, no more slaying. No one has to be slain." The cleric seemed frustrated with his lack of a grasp of the tongue, and was trying very hard to speak with this man without offending him further. Wolfgang wasn't sure if the man was going to throw him out or have him killed, neither were things he could allow to pass.

[tigerusthegreat]

"You seek to lead us astray. Your kind is cursed, abandoned by the flame. Your soul does not seek the Holy Flame, so you walk in its blessed light without fear. Your soul will not leave to merge with the others...the ancestors. I pity your backwards ways."

[Volos]

"We are backward in our ways? We are not cursed, we are blessed by Blessed Moon. You hide from Holy Flame, are you not blessed? If you were, you would not hide. Empire would say you are backward, but not I. You are..." He struggles to find a word to explain 'different' but finds himself failing. "..not us. You are you. That is not bad, just you. Why do you curse us?" Wolfgang wasn't an idiot, he was taking careful note of everything said by this man. Certain parts seemed rather prophetic and cryptic. He attempted to think of any correlation in the religious texts he studied in the Temple as a youth. Perhaps references to the lesser gods would be of aid.

Knowledge Religion [roll0] to get what he means by this talk of 'warrior, priest, and seer' and the ancestors returning to the flame. I have an idea, but that's OOC knowledge from being a pagan.

EDIT: ...wow that's a terrible roll. Oh well, I can look at texts later and figure it out then. Provided I get out alive, of course.

[tigerusthegreat]

"We do not hide, we honor the Great Flame. You curse yourself by your unnatural moon worship." He seems to be loosing interest in talking to you.

You have no clue who the warrior, priest, and seer are, but you suspect it has something to do with prophecy (it sounds like the sort of vaguely specific thing an oracle would say).

[Volos]

"If the Moon is false, then why did my magic work here? Show me such proof of your god. I mean no anger toward you, I do not want to slay or lie to you or your people. I will go, if you want. But I want to talk again. If we talk, no slaying and no sadness." Wolfgang tries to make a point while keeping this diplomatic. He wasn't sure if he'd offend the man further, or if he would give him pause to think about how that could have come to pass. If their god was real, their ward would have held against his magic. Come to think of it, Wolfgang wasn't sure if they had anything other than their false faith.

OOC: I'll be busy with errands, a birthday bash, and other stuff over the next two days. Friday my schedule returns to normal.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Devils and Demons have their magic too. Of course, within the hold of the Flaming Spirit clan, the Great Kindler has his greatest strengths. The bodies of the four Masters hallow this place. Your magic is for communication, perhaps the Great Flame allows it...but can you be certain that your false goddess gave you the power you use, or perhaps the Great Flame that you do not believe in has power over you too." The man laughs. "Events are unfolding to prove the strength of our people and our devotion to Father Flame and Mother Earth. Perhaps you will see when the Fifth Master returns, and calls us to his service."

You hear a small scoffing noise at the mention of the Fifth master from the shadowy figure.

[Volos]

Wolfgang turns toward the man hidden by shadows for a moment, wondering why he would scoff at the words of the man who was the 'leader'. "He doesn't believe in the fifth master?" Wolfgang points to the man in the shadows while talking to Bashran. "Bashran, if he doesn't believe then why is he here? I am certain of my goddess, as I am a cleric of her faith. A holy man. I have spoken to her, and every prayer has been answered. You pray to a god that is of nature, yes? You ask him to do what would happen anyways. Sun and Earth have done as they always do, be it here in Flaming Spirit Hold or in Empire." Wolfgang found their faith puzzling and he could see where the man was coming from but it didn't mean he had to like it or agree with it. He didn't expect to convert anyone today, this process was going to take time. Time was something the empire didn't have.

OOC: Any words in Italics are words that Wolfgang says in common on purpose.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Urgon believes that all of the signs have not yet been fulfilled, and that I am too eager in my belief that the prophecies will be fulfilled soon. He is a High Priest, and our Chieftain, so I must defer to his wisdom, and be more cautious of what my heart bids me to speak."

He has calmed slightly, allowing the talk of religious philosophy to continue. "And does not the moon phase whether you pray to her or not? You commune with your god, and believe in her, yet doubt that ours exists. I commune with mine, have seen his works and majesty, and I doubt that yours exists. Yet you believe I am wrong, and a savage because of it. I have had enough philosophy. What is your purpose here, Slave of the White Witch?"

Another figure has joined Urgon. This one does not keep to the shadows. He is an older man, back starting to bend with age, but he looks very strong. An eyeless socket fills the right half of his face, with a scar that puts the Captain's to shame. He appears to have ritual tattoing all over his body, but in looking for a pattern you realize they are battle scars. He speaks in hushed tones to Urgon.

OOC: The duration of your spell is ending soon. While you can still speak to them generally to make your wants and needs known, without the magical aid you probably won't be able to understand much of what they say. Also, make an Intelligence check if you please.

[Volos]

"Urgon, I respect your role as Chieftain and High Priest. My time with your words is ending soon, we cannot speak once it ends. I am here to find peace between Flaming Spirit Hold and the Empire. I need to rest to regain my magic, or I can leave and return tomorrow if you will allow it. My shield is strong, my people would notice I am gone." Wolfgang acknowledges that they could hold him here as a prisoner, while at the same time warning that a battle would be fought for his return.

Intelligence [roll0]

[tigerusthegreat]

"Peace will come when your Empire removes itself from our lands. You are invaders, encroachers. Do you know how many of our people have died to satisfy your desire to occupy Mother Earth? To claim some ownership of her? Your ignorance of the crimes your people have committed is as poor as your understanding of what it means to be a warrior. A coward hides behind a shield he has not earned. Leave now, before you insult our customs further."

He says something else to you, but the spell has faded. You believe that he indicates a possibility that you can speak with him again tomorrow, but you cannot be fully sure. The one-eyes warrior grabs your arm and gently pulls you towards the cave you entered from. He leads you to the entrance. Once there he says something to the guard there, which sounds like "go inside." Once you are alone he says to you.

"You fools are all alike. I see through you. You have some half-earned knowledge of what we are and what our customs are like. Your mighty Empire, stretching far beyond the waves. I remember the wars. I remember pushing your kind back into the sea, and ruling this land again, until you came with more soldiers, ships, and those cursed magicians. Your kind has no honor. You have no honor, and claiming to have honor among your people is poorly evidenced by that abomination of a shield you bear." What is most shocking is that he speaks common, rather heavily accented, but common all the same. "Do not return here, missionary. Your religion is not welcome here. Should you wish to learn how to be a real man, then perhaps you can return, though your Goddess would not like it, I am sure. Urgon may be spineless, but Aggrig...his flame is bright."

Outside the shadow of the cave the sun is an hour or so away from setting.

[Volos]

"Bashran, Urgon, goodbye." Wolfgang says simply to end the conversation. Now that his spell had faded, he wanted to avoid saying anything that could insult them further. He tried his best to memorize the caves on the way out, but he had no mind for such things. Wolfgang show his surprise when the scared warrior can actually speak his tongue. He allows the man to finish before responding. "I will return to talk further. We are willing to find a peaceful solution. Mistakes have been made on both sides, but the Empire is strong. If your people cannot make peace, then war will come. My goddess is one of peace, but the people of the military are not. They give but lip service to her and expect to be allowed to fight. Burnt homes, dead women and children, and other actions against the Empire will insight them to fight. There are so many warriors; even if you are strong you will fail. I do not want war; I am a seeker of peace. I will stay their hand for as long as I can. I'm sorry for the death of Tralatar and of others, but this is what will happen if peace cannot be found." If the man had nothing else to say to him, Wolfgang would leave with his shield on his back. It was either a sign of trust or a display of his indifference to them if they wished to attack. They seemed to be focused on honor, and if they struck him when his back was turned how little would they have?

[tigerusthegreat]

"I know nothing of burning homes or children. I do know your empire kils us at will. Our swineherds, our hunters. Peaceful people. Perhaps you should see what your soldiers do to us while we are at peace before you assume we would kill children or burn fields."

OOC: You are beginning to grasp their language. Further instruction, or use of comprehend language will increase your grasp (provided you succeed in intelligence checks) on the language. You will not be able to read it, unless you study their written language extensively (if they have one, the only bit you've seen is the symbols on shields). You won't be proficient with it until you spend skill points, but with enough study you will be able to get and give the gist of what you mean without magical help.

[Volos]

"I plan to conduct a full investigation upon my return. I do not mean to point fingers, but who else would kill the innocent farmers? I will return when I can to talk more, goodbye for now." With that Wolfgang takes his leave. He realizes he probably won't make it back to the fort before nightfall, but he welcomes the presence of the Blessed Moon in the sky. If he can find a place to safely pray, he will do so. He asks for insight to the strange words of the savages as well as the means to obscure his magic. Once he has felt that he has traveled far enough, he makes camp.

OOC: Well Wolfgang is looking forward to learning more about them. Mechanically he is preparing comprehend languages, magic weapon, and his domain spell Nystul’s Magic Aura for first level spells.

[tigerusthegreat]

The sun sets quickly, and you camp in the field. As you are setting up, in the distance you can see two or three dark figures heading towards the Flaming Spirit Hold. When they get closer to it, a great number of people come out of the Hold, with a lot of torches. After a few minutes they all disappear into the caves.

OOC: Your camp is ready. There isn't much protection out in the wild, but you think you'll be at least somewhat hidden in the tall grass. Let me know if there's anything else you want to do today.

Also, I will not be able to post until much later today, I will be working. I might be able to post from my phone on my lunch break, but who knows.

[Volos]

Rather than have a restless night, Wolfgang sleeps with his armor removed. The bedroll he purchased in New Regus would be put to good use this night. His shield, as a sign of his faith and also to help comfort him in this unfamiliar place, would be left within arm's reach. Though he wasn't quite sure what he saw with all of those torch lights and dark figures, he couldn't waste time worrying about it now. Wolfgang would sleep through the night, if not disturbed.

OOC: It's all good. Today is my roommate's B-Day as well as St. Patricks Day, so I'm going to be really busy as well. Like I had warned before, I won't be back to my normal schedual until Friday.

[tigerusthegreat]

You sleep and have a fairly lucid dream. You see a bright red fox. It stares at you, then runs ahead of you into a light forest. You can still make it out ahead of you, but it will be lost to sight soon if you do not follow it.

Ooc: yay dream sequence. Btw 500 xp for what you have done so far.

[Volos]

Wolfgang finds the presence of the Fox to be strange and confusing at best, but as it runs away he decides to chase it. From his training as a Cleric, he knew that the goddess could speak in mysterious ways and this could very well be one of them. Not even realizing he is asleep, Wolfgang attempts to grab his shield before running after the Fox.

OOC: XP recorded on my sheet. I love roleplaying XP, as it can be just as difficult (or more difficult) to be diplomatic as it can be to kill those in your way. Not to mention language/cultural barriers getting in the way. Thank you kindly sir.

[tigerusthegreat]

you grab your shield and follow the fox. It leads you deeper and deeper into the forest until the only thing you can see is the fox. It stops and stares at you. You realize then that it is made of fire, but doesn't burn the brush around it. It looks questioning at you, before a deep rumble like thunder sounds.

[Volos]

Running seems difficult for him, but Wolfgang focuses on the image of the fox to keep from getting lost in this strange forest. As soon as it stops, he raises his shield as if to protect himself. The fire that makes the fox frightens him. Before he can even think to cower the cacophony of sound arises like thunder, freezing Wolfgang in place. He gathers the courage to speak, even though his body is paralyzed with fear. "What... no, who are you?" He tries as hard as he can to remain looking directly at the fox, even though it frightens him so.

[tigerusthegreat]

The rumbling becomes even louder as the fox continues to stare. Soon the rumbling is painful, and dissolves into a cacophony of noise, as if a thousand...no a million voices are speaking at once. They crash over one another, and there is nothing you can distinguish. Your shield feels strange as you lift it, something you had not noticed before. It is no longer the metal shield bearing the crest of your goddess. This one is made of cured hide, and seems very strong.

Just when the voices threaten to subdue you, something changes. It still sounds like millions of voices, but while they do not say the same thing, you hear words clearly.

"Why have you come to my realm, moon servant? You have no place here, nor does your heart seek understanding. If you only saw with your eyes, you would know the terrible things that have been done within my realm, and to my people. How can you know what to say to a nation of warriors when you are not one yourself? Do you think they would begin to listen to one who is not a warrior? Even my priests are warriors first. Your boasting has left you a Murkin among them. An oddity truly, a Shieldless One that bears a shield."

The fox does not look like he is the speaker, but you feel that he is indeed speaking.

[Volos]

Wolfgang covers his ears, but cannot hide from the sound of so many voices rising up against him. He falls to his knees, almost on the verge of weeping from the sound itself. As his shield changes, he stares at it in confusion. What was all of this? It felt like he was awake, but these sort of things could only happen in a dream. As the voices gather and speak on behalf of the fox, Wolfgang starts to shake in true fear. Was this the god of their people? He had never heard the voice of the Blessed Moon, but now this was speaking to him. "I was sent to convert the native people, I am a missionary of the true goddess, Blessed Moon. She guides and protects me. I know of no such terrors against your people. I have seen the burning of the farm and heard of your people attacking defenseless commoners. You are a false god. You could not stop my magic within your most sacred place. I will convert your people for their own sake, or the empire will attack. I do not seek war, but your 'warriors' seem more than willing to accept it." Wolfgang spoke only from what he had been taught since a young age, and from what he was told by his superiors within the empire. He didn't fully believe all of what he said, but he said it anyways. It was almost like an instinctive thing for him to do, to spout the doctrine and rumors he had heard.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Those warriors know the harsh reality their situation has thrust upon them. Before your people came to this place, they knew peace. Very rarely there would be a dispute over land or a crime, but outright wars were very rare. Your people came, and attacked them when they came to great them. Over half this land was conquered, my people retreated to the mountain's shadow, loosing many of their most sacred grounds. Since then four great wars have been fought. In each, our warriors did far more than your Empire suspected they could. Their aggression had transformed the very society of the Flame Children to a warrior culture."

The fox turns its head quizzically at you.

"Seek first to understand and then to be understood. Once you understand another, it is easier to be understood. Perhaps the savages that you think they are could teach you a thing about truth and honor."

As it speaks, it glows brighter and brighter. It is almost blindingly bright, which wakes you out of the dream. You then realize that the brightness is the sun, having risen while you overslept. It is only a couple hours past dawn. Your shield and clothing are very much the same as they were last night when you went to sleep, save your clothes are drenched with night sweat.

[Volos]

Having awoken from such a strange dream, Wolfgang is unsure of what he should do. It could have been his imagination running away with him, but that all felt so very real. Was it the magic of the savage priests? Shakily he started to don his armor, being careful with each clasp and buckle. When he had his armor, he would sling his shield over his back and start on the trail back to the fort. He was hungry, so he started eating some of his trail rations to help give the energy for the day's journey. His faith had been shaken to the core, and while he walked he attempted to commune with his goddess. Blessed Moon... what was that last night?

[tigerusthegreat]

The wind picks up a bit as you begin praying. You do not receive any answers to your question, but the reflection seems to do you good. You feel renewed, even if puzzled by the events of this strange land.

OOC: You can prepare spells as normal, just sorta flavor here.

[Volos]

Makes his way to the fort without delay. He feels a need to share his experience so as to stop any action on the Captain's part against the savages. It must have just been a dream or something he ate. Wolfgang even starts to smile a little, wondering if they were still talking about him.

OOC: If it's alright, I was thinking I'd prepare my spells when I pray at night to the Goddess? If not, then I could do it in the morning. One of the great things about being a Cleric is that restless nights don't stop us from preparing spells. Atleast not by the Rules As Written. If you'd like to change that, I'm fine with it. The more challenges the better, I always say. Might be why alot of my characters die so often. :smalleek:

[tigerusthegreat]

OOC: I don't care either way, night fits better.

BIC: You head back to the fortress. After an hour or so of walking, you see the fort in the distance. You are admitted in, but the Captain is away in New Regus. You overhear a couple guards talking about a patrol that didn't return the night before, and another that had been gone for the last four nights that just now returned.

[Volos]

Wolfgang is somewhat weary of heading back out there, but is still dedicated to the empire and the temple. So instead of avoiding the problem, he approaches the soldiers and asks, "How long was the patrol to be gone for? And where are those who just returned after four days? I need to speak with them." Wolfgang forgot to introduce himself, but he figured that his shield and holy symbol would be enough. He seemed a little tired, but not terribly bad off for one who wasn't used to walking such distances.

[tigerusthegreat]

After talking to a few soldiers, you gather that the missing soldiers headed out to the south west. How far you aren't certain. The soldiers that returned headed back for New Regus as soon as they had arrived. Apparently they were temporarily assigned here to patrol, they are originally from the Governor's personal guard. As are the soldiers that are missing.

[Volos]

Wolfgang attempts to find the Lieutenant that he spoke with shortly before meeting with the Captain. If he finds him, he asks for information on the Captain's next visit, the men who are 'missing', and the patrol that just got back. In return he gives a brief overview of his discussion with the natives, being careful to leave out the bit with the fox who may or may not have been their god. If he cannot find the Lieutenant, then he seeks out whomever is in charge of the fort.

[tigerusthegreat]

"The savages are strange. Their customs backwards, and beliefs skewed by their paganism. I wouldn't put too much weight on anything they have said." The Lieutenant says, inspecting one of the ballista towers. "The Archmages captured one a few years back, even taught it to speak common well enough so they could extract information from it. Not that they shared that information with us grunts, nor do I think they shared it with the church."

He looks towards the south. "Those patrols were ordered by the governor, and I don't know much about them. If those guys are dead, good riddance, and hopefully the two that left again meet the same fate."

[Volos]

"Why do you wish harm against your fellow man? The Moon Mother would not be pleased to hear such talk. Were they such evil men, or did they threaten your position here at the fort? I know that the Governor's actions led to the situation we're in right now between savages burning homes and patrols being reduced. War is approaching, as little as we want to accept that." Wolfgang seems saddened by his own words, but speaks them nonetheless.

[tigerusthegreat]

The Lieutenant quiets his voice to avoid being overheard. "The governor is a harsh man, and the men that he attracts to his service are similar. They say that to rule this island requires an iron fist, well this guy has an adamantine one. I'm very surprised that we haven't been to war already to wipe out the savages with him in command, but I don't think the people would support it. Then you'd have savages on one half of the island and revolting peasants on the other. The garrison isn't that large, maybe five hundred men all together. His forces make up another hundred, and if we are lucky we could draft maybe another thousand in peasants to fill out the ranks for a war. There's little chance the savages could field that many troops, they are all but wiped out."

From your experience in the Flaming Spirit Hold, you saw only a handful of warriors while you were there.

[Volos]

Wolfgang's expression goes from that of silent disgust to sudden realization. "Do you think the Governor could have withdrawn the patrols to incite the savages to attack, therein leading us to war? I cannot allow this, my mission is to convert the savages peacefully. If he keeps moving like this, there will be no peaceful options left. Is there a priest or cleric of standing here? I need to send a message back to the Head of the Temple in New Regus." Wolfgang is careful to keep his voice low as well, at least when speaking about the Governor. When it comes to the rest, he takes cues from the Lieutenant.

[tigerusthegreat]

"There are none here, but I can have a message sent if you need it. I've not met the governor, nor can I make idle speculation about his motives."

[Volos]

"Fair enough. All I need them to know is that I've made contact. I was barely able to understand them using some divine magic, so communication has been slow. Thank you for your help Lieutenant, the Blessed Moon shows favor for you. May she always light your path in the deepest of darkness." If there was nothing else the man wished to say or offer, Wolfgang would excuse himself to spend some time in prayer and perhaps to also take a bath.

[tigerusthegreat]

You manage to get a basin of water to wash up with at least. Its not a proper bath, but it seems to serve. After you have freshened up, and prayed, a messenger knocks on the door. He hands you a parchment sealed with the crescent moon, the sign of a High Priest. The parchment reads:

Good to hear you have made contact and survived. Rumors abound that a war will start soon. Your priority is to remain alive. These savages will likely take you hostage if given the chance, so stay alert. The governor talks of war, and a militia is being drawn up of two hundred volunteers. I have included in this letter two scrolls that may prove useful. The first is of invisibility. It is an arcane spell, but with the Moon Mother's help you should find it useful. The second is a spell to discern lies from truth. It should help with the savages. I pray the White Goddess protects you, and grants you the glibness to convert these heathens. -High Priest Excelsior the Pale

Excelsior the Pale is a legendary teacher of theology that travels from place to place. You had no idea that he was on the island.

[Volos]

While it may take up precious time, Wolfgang makes sure to write a letter of thanks for not only the information but the scrolls as well. "Blessings of The Moon Mother upon you Father Excelsior the Pale. I was surprised to hear from you personally, but in that same surprise my spirit was uplifted and refreshed. If the Blessed Moon has chosen for such a dedicated servant such as yourself to see over my attempts to be a missionary to the savages, then truely my path is blessed. I will report as often as I can, and your advice has been taken to heart. Your gift of these scrolls are most welcome and I thank you for them. The White Enchantress is not restricted to simply the magics of the divine, and by her grace I will use the arcane scroll as it was intended when written. Pray that your stay on this Island is a safe one. Untill I hear from you again. ~Wolfgang Lothar, Cleric, Missionary, Humble Servant" Once the letter was written, he would do what he must to have it sent as quickly as possible. If it had already become late, he would spend one more night at the fort. If it was before or around midday, he would ask where other groups of savages were and attempt to see them. The group he already met could do without seeing him for a few days, atleast he could try to connect with another group.

[tigerusthegreat]

There are groups spread throughout the island, but the closest one besides the Flaming Spirit clan is somewhere to the south south-west. It is about midday, but you're not sure you can reach that area by nightfall.

[Volos]

When he realizes that he cannot make it to his desired destination before night fall, Wolfgang decides to hold services for the people of the fort. The savages were most active a night, a most sickly irony for those who destest the moon and a decent reason to avoid traveling alone after dark. If the people of the fort were not interested in having a relgious ceremony or if they already had a priest or cleric; then Wolfgang wouldn't offer his services. In the case of there being a brother or sister of the temple, Wolfgang would offer to aid them in their services. In the case of a lack of interest, Wolfgang would spend the rest of the day attempting to understand the meaning of the fox in his dream before taking the night to pray for the people of the empire and the fort.

[tigerusthegreat]

You provide services for the people of the fort, and they are thankful for it. It seems few priests head out to the border area. As you settle down for the night and prayer, you are bothered by the flaming fox. It is not symbolism used by the Moon Mother, that is clear. If it was the god of these people it is a very clear proof that it exists. However, you know of spells that can send dreams to people, and if the savages have actual clerics, then they could have access to such magic. However, if they had such magic, they would have used it to aid in communication with you.

[Volos]

The cleric is proud of the people of the fort, and is more than willing to offer his services to them. In honor of their enthusiasm, he makes special prayers for them and all armed men/women that guard the empire against outside threats. Wolfgang also makes time to tell one of his favorite tales from Blessed Moon's scripture. After the services, Wolfgang retires to his room. He is unwilling to accept the lucid dreams he had as proof of Holy Fire's existence, as in his mind that would mean that Blessed Moon could not be. Either his goddess was true or their god was, it could not be both. While he was told they had holy men, he was not given proof of their magic. Wolfgang's own magics as well as the strength of his faith were proof enough that the Moon Mother was the true deity. He did act first with his own magic to aid in communication, so they may yet have their own. But their magic would have to be arcane in nature to be the type to influence dreams and to fool simple savages into believing their god was real. Wolfgang felt satirized with this conclusion for now, using the comfort he found in it to relax into a restful sleep.

[tigerusthegreat]

Your dreams are troubled again by unwanted imagery. This time, however, you are not in control of your body. You are sneaking through tall grasses, similar to those that you camped in yesterday. Your obsidian sword is at the ready. Suddenly you hear a crack, then a crash as something heavy hits the ground. You move towards it, seeing a deer crumpled in the grass. It is breathing heavily, and bleeding from a pair of long gashes in its side. You hear a snarl, and turn around. The largest cougar, or maybe a mountain lion stands before you. A name comes to your mind: Orgristin. You open your mouth and say something...you can't understand what. Orgristin snarls, its foul breath nauseating you. It claws at you, but you leap aside, stabbing with full force into its flank. The blade is deflected by the thick hide. As you stare in shock at your weapon's ineffectiveness, you feel an impact on the side of your head that sends you sprawling, and burning down your side, followed by the wetness of your blood. Orgristin knows it has won. It pads slowly to where you fell, staring at you. It bends its massive head down, jaws wide to grab your head and end your life. With the last bit of energy in your broken body you stab upwards into the beast's mouth. The blade penetrates the top of its mouth. It rips the blade from your hand, convulsing in the throes of death. The bulk of the monster is suddenly on your chest, squeezing the life out of you. You see a dark figure on the horizon as you are enveloped by blackness.

You wake in a cold sweat. It is the middle of the night. You feel your side, but there are no marks or blood there.

[Volos]

Wolfgang awakes and immediately enters prayer. He asks for the Blessed Moon to shield him from this strange dreams, then washes the sweat away with the water from the basin in his room. Was that the dream of the hunter? It was said that he killed the beast himself... if the savages knew that their new leader didn't kill the beast by his own hand, they wouldn't be able to unite. Divided they wouldn't pose a threat to the Empire and I could take my time in converting them. Wolfgang was still shaken from his dream, even to the point of being fearful of the natural world. He couldn't let it stop him, so he decided to set out regardless of his feelings in the matter. His goal was to reach the other settlement of savages before nightfall. Last night he prepared the spell for communication as well as a spell that could strike fear into the heart of even a terrible beast like that in his dream.

[tigerusthegreat]

You travel quickly. The dawn lights up the sky as you step out of the fortress. The sun has just reached its full size when you see caves in the distance similar to those of the Flaming Spirit Clan. As you get closer you notice something. There are piles of ash and burnt patches of grass every few feet. Hundreds of them. Enthralled by them you do not hear the approach of an older man, his eyes worn with age. He walks with a carved staff and a noticeable limp. His clothes are simple, like peasant's attire and seem to be spun out of plant fibers, maybe cotton.

"They were the Earthen Home tribe. Your soldiers did this four nights ago. It is a shame, they were perhaps the most peaceful of the People of the Flame. This is what drove Him to his task, seeing his people, people that gave him food and welcome on his journey to the Oracle, slaughtered in the three days he left them. Forgive my rudeness, I am called by many names, but to you I am Zadarash, the scribe. I have been studying and recording the events of these people for some time. A great change is coming, the wind sings of it and the earth pulses. There is a change to the flow of water and the fires dance. "

[Volos]

"They are not my soldiers, but that of the Empire or perhaps the Governor himself. I am Wolfgang Lothar of the temple of the Blessed Moon, and I do not condone such actions. Zadarash, the scribe? You name reminds me of them, the people of Flaming Spirit Hold..." he says the name of the place in the words of the savages. "...tell me scribe, what do you know of these people? The Empire calls them Savages, but I have seen that they are not by my own eye and within my dreams. Their god may even have some small spark from their devout faith in him, even though he is a false god. What else have you recorded, aside from the crimes of the Empire?" Wolfgang was just now starting to question the Empire's means, but not its goal. He trusted that they wished for peace as the Moon Mother commanded, but that only their methods were being shown as flawed. He had yet to lose complete faith in the Empire, as they still revered his goddess.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Similar perhaps, but the People of the Flame call me Bartor, though they would likely kill me should I come near them now. They are not keen on outsiders learning of their culture, they fear it will be used to harm them, and many would do just that. Naturally as a scribe and historian I am one of their fears, though they did not know what I was doing when I went among them peacefully." He looks around the scorched ground, sadly.

"I can tell you much about them, but this is not the place for it. My hut is not far away, perhaps some herbal tea will ease this conversation, I do not think you will like what I have to say on the matter of their Holy Fire in the Sky." He starts walking due East. It is roughly the direction that Flaming Spirit Hold is from here.

(Don't want to railroad you into following him if you do not want to. Feel free to ask questions while you walk as well, it should take you a half hour or so to walk with the slow man to his house).

[Volos]

Wolfgang tries to get a feel for what this scribe is about before following him. He feels safe while protected by his goddess and the shield that she has blessed, but doesn't feel like trusting a complete stranger. "For what purpose is it that you have so many names? The goddess herself is known by so many, but that is because she has many forms. I see but one man standing before me, what else would require so many titles? I would ask more of the people from Flaming Spirit Hold and of their Holy Fire, but you seem to wish to speak in the comfort and privacy of your own home, and I will respect that." Wolfgang kept his arm ready to draw his shield in case this man turned against him or if any of the savages were to suddenly burst from the shadows. Ever since the Head Priest of Flaming Spirit Hold had appeared from the darkness without warning and that dream of a savage fighting the terrible beast of a cougar, Wolfgang was more on edge. He would try his best to appear relaxed, but he wasn't that adept at hiding his emotions from others.

Sense Motive [roll0] on the scribe to see if he is either against the empire or for the savages
Bluff [roll1] to seem relaxed

[tigerusthegreat]

You get the clear idea that this man has no love for the Empire, but he seems to keep the savages at a distance as well. Perhaps that is a good trait in a historian, not taking a side. Or perhaps he has done something to alienate him from both sides.


"I have many names because others have named me so. I do not possess magic, so I had to learn a language through experimentation and study. I took the names that people called me, it seemed simpler at the time than trying to get the point across another way." His pace is very easy to keep up with, and you are a bit surprised he has survived out in the wilds for so long with such a disability as a game leg.

"I know why you are here, Wolfgang of the Blessed Moon. You wish to prevent the war that will be coming. It is a force that is difficult to hold off. A leader has risen from among the Flaming Spirit. A Chieftain of great power that will unit the clans and march against the Empire. They have consulted the Oracle, and since I have not seen the other Chieftains leave Flaming Spirit hold, so I must assume they are still deciding what to do. If the Oracle advised against war, there would be no war council. She must have provided them some other course of action, and that worries me."

[Volos]

Wolfgang doesn't quite feel comfortable walking with this man who has no ties to the outside world. He keeps one eye on the scribe and the other of the wilds. "It is true that I wish to prevent war if at all possible. The savages must see the light of truth that shines from the bright face of the White Enchantress. Our Blessed Mother Moon loves all her children equally, but these people defile her name and commit such terrible acts to worship this false sun god... forgive me, I am a priest. My view is biased in this regard, but as a scribe you must be neutral in all respects. Or is your view tilted as well?" Wolfgang uses his own admission to attempt to wrestle a bit of information out of the man. He wonders what the scribe has done to survive out here by himself if he cannot even move properly. Perhaps if he knew the proper magics, he could heal this man's old wounds? That is if he proves trustworthy.

[tigerusthegreat]

"In my experience, the gods only interact with us when they wish to change things, or when we fall astray. Even when we fall astray they ignore us." He is then quiet for a short time.

"Consider how strong your convictions are, and how firmly you believe in the White Sorceress. They believe that strongly in the Holy Fire. Their society is based upon a warrior culture supported by seers and priests. They seek signs constantly, and act upon them. That is why the Oracle is so important to them. When a priest, seer, and warrior seek the Oracle, then war is on the verge."

[Volos]

"I have no doubt that they believe in their false god, I have seen that for myself. They refuse to leave their cave home to see the light of their 'Holy Fire'. A most puzzling dogma this god must have in order to keep his followers from living lives in the light, as humans were meant to. So you say they are preparing for war, that is true of both sides of this conflict. Though I know the people of the Empire would rather see a peaceful solution rather than to throw their lives away defending this small island. There have been farms burnt to the ground, supposedly by the savages. Whether or not that is true, there have been deaths and it will anger the common people. If the Governor wanted to make a conscript army, it wouldn't be difficult. What you are saying is the same is true of the savages, that what we've done to them has angered them enough to look for cause or permission from this Oracle?"

[tigerusthegreat]

"They believe the holy fire will rip the souls from their bodies. Only the strength of mother earth prevents it. They believe that only a few heroes are strong enough to withstand the pull on their souls. Those, they believe, have inner fires that burn great enough to anchor others to themselves, and change the courses of fate. These men they call the masters. There have been four to fight the four wars these people have fought against your empire. Now a fifth rises. Do not underestimate him, he killed that cougar Orgristin, and that is enough for most to claim him a great leader and warrior. "

[Volos]

The cleric seems to remain silent for a time, thinking on whether or not to share what he knew or thought he knew. Finally Wolfgang would decide to tell this scribe of it, knowing that a man with no ties could not risk his position as a cleric by telling anyone. "I have had... dreams. In these dreams I have seen things that I cannot rightly explain. In the first, I had been sleeping in a field. That was true both of where I was before I fell into this dream and where I started within it. I saw some flash of a red fox, and I began to chase it. All I had with me was my shield. When I finally caught up to... no, when it decided to let me approach, there was many voices. My shield became a hide shield and the fox spoke to me. He spoke as if he was their god, but never claimed it. The fox said our people turned the children of the flame into a warrior culture by attacking them so many times. I... cannot believe that he was their god, it would mean the end of my own faith. That I cannot allow. It could have been a dream from their priest's magic, or perhaps something in the food they offered me. The second dream, it the one that I find the most interesting. It would lead me to believe that this new 'leader' is but a lucky fool." Wolfgang began to wonder how far away this man's house was.

[tigerusthegreat]

A hut sheltered by one of the few trees on this side of the island comes into view.
"most leaders are mere lucky fools. As per the fox's view on history, I have only known them to be warriors. However my experience is limited."

He opens the door to the hut and beckons you in.

[Volos]

Offers a slight bow before entering to show his respect to the scribe for being his host. "There is a difference between a fool whose luck puts him into the position of leader, eventually doing such deeds to earn that right and that title; and the fool whose cowardice leads to a lucky moment which he is praised for and made a leader because of. Their so called leader is the second of these two. I saw a frightened savage fighting Orgristin, unable to strike at the beast with his primitive sword. When the beast came in for the kill, he struck up into its mouth out of desperation. There was a second figure nearby, but my dream ended before I could see him. If these dreams are true, then their 'leader' either had help or was too much of a weakling to defeat the beast by any measure of strength and had to use his luck. Forgive my rambling, you are a scribe and I assumed you would want to hear such things. I've been a terrible guest, surely you would wish to speak now?"

[tigerusthegreat]

"I saw the event you are speaking of. I believe, if I understand you correctly, that i was the shadowy figure you saw. It was indeed a terrible thing that happened, but the fierce warrior spirit sustained that warrior, much as some divine power must have guided his blade to find the creature's one weakness. I do not consider him a fool or weakling who first struck at the creature with blows that would have killed any normal beast of its kind, and then, failing at that, had sufficient luck to survive." He ushers you in and pulls out a rough wooden chain for you to sit on. He puts a battered tin tea pot onto a rack over a small fire, after pouring some water into it.

"That he survived the attack at all is impressive, killing the thing...it is a feat. Now he bears a shield made of that indestructible hide." He sighs heavily. "If you wish to understand these people, my rambling will not aid you. I'm sure you have questions, I will do what I can to answer them."

[Volos]

"All I wish to know is how to convert them or make peace with them. If I could capture one of them, take him outside while the sun is up... perhaps then I could prove to them that their god is false. I have never seen a man die of sunlight, and unless they are of the undead they shouldn't be affected in that way. I even used my magic within their protected home, thier most sacred place and they still wouldn't believe my words. I don't agree with war and the Empire's desires to remove these people. It seems neither side will agree to peace or listen to reason. Tell me, how many tribes are there that you know of? And what do they value, what can I show them that would make me honored or respected in their eyes so that they would listen?"

[tigerusthegreat]

"The only way to have a chance at converting them, which I doubt is likely, is through earning their respect. Coercing them into disproving their own beliefs will most likely result in them thinking you are trying to trick them, which essentially you are. They do not trust outsiders, especially not those from the Empire. That said, I have seen them drop dead from stepping into the sunlight, though how much of that is from terror and how much is their God's power."

He takes the boiling kettle off the fire, and pours two mugs of steaming tea, handing one to you.

"There are twelve tribes. The Flaming Spirit is the most honored due to its hold being the resting place of the four Masters. Its been said that the Masters all claim lineage from the Flaming Spirit clan, and that it is the first of the clans formed by the Children of the Flame. Historically, there's no record, and other clans claim a Master, or maybe two, and a few of the bigger claim to be the first. The truth is, it is the burial place of the four Masters, I have seen their tombs. The Earthen Home tribe is now all but destroyed thanks to the soldiers of the Empire. As to how you were able to use magic in their hold...I don't get involved in the will of Gods and Goddesses."

He takes a drink of his tea, and stares into the cup.

"Ask to witness their tests of manhood...maybe ask to undertake them. That is the only way they will come to accept you. You may learn enough about their culture to have an inroad into understanding them."

[Volos]

"It seems the whole world is against me in this. The Empire wishes to attack before I can bring peace. The tribes have become offended by my words. And now my dream of the fox and you both say that I should become a warrior in order to learn of these people and earn their respect. My dream said I was a shieldless one with a shield. It changed this one of steel and forge into that of hide and savage make. I already know a few of their words but my magic can carry me only so far. Do you know of their tongue scribe? I would seek to learn it so I may attempt to connect with them, in whatever way my goddess deems best." Wolfgang takes the cup of tea, sipping on it slowly so as not to burn his tongue. "You are a kind host sir. You welcome me in and answer my every question without worry. I thank you for your patience in this respect."

[tigerusthegreat]

"I do not think I am a very good teacher, your best chance is to find one of them that can speak some of your language. There's one that i know of. An old Warmaster...Zril I believe is his name. He's got more battle wounds than you would think possible for a man to have, and is missing an eye. He seemed to not want the rest of his tribe to know he could speak it. Learning their language would go very far towards earning their trust, though it is not a panacea for the rift between your people and theirs."

He grabs a book off of a nearby shelf. "I am not certain what your dreams mean, but it seems to me that either their god is real, or someone wants you to think that it is real. I assume you have not received any similar messages from the Goddess? It is a puzzle. This book has the history that I have recorded so far. I was copying it from my notes to send to the Imperial Library. I doubt they would allow anyone to read it for a few hundred years, until after this matter is fully settled, but the history deserves recording."

[Volos]

"I have met that man. His injures are worse than those that the captain of the nearby fort has sustained. He did seem to want to avoid talking to me when anywhere near his fellow savages. Now I know what I can do to get these people to listen to reason, but whether or not I'll actually be able to do it is another matter entirely. You must record history and I must make my attempt at making it. One way or the other, the future hinges of my actions now. If the tribe I was seeking here no longer exsists, then my only other option is to approach the people of Flaming Spirit Hold again but with a different approach. They might see this shield of mine as offensive, but it is a weapon I have trained with as much as it is an armor that I trust in. I thank you scribe, you have been more helpful that you could have known."

[tigerusthegreat]

"beware of Urgon. He is a slippery and manipulative worm. His shield is made of deer hide, and he barely managed that. He is not a warrior so it doesn't matter as much, but you might find that information useful. Also do not interfere in their customs, no matter how cruel they seem. They will cast you out or kill you should you do so. I wish you luck. Moon mother bless you and fire father guide you."

[Volos]

Wolfgang is obviously put off by the man's blessing, but seems grateful for the advice given. "May Blessed Moon bring to you new visions of the events to come so you may record them properly. I will leave now, I do not have the time to wait on this. I may see you again, depending on how this turns out." Wolfgang makes his preperations to leave, wondering how he is going to manage this.

[tigerusthegreat]

He sees you out. The sun is passing to the west, with a few hours of light left.

[Volos]

Taking his best guess of which direction would be the Flaming Spirit Hold, Wolfgang heads out. If he cannot figure it out on his own, he would ask direction from the scribe. He wields his shield, not wanting to be caught off guard by a passing savage or a random animal. Though if he were to kill an animal in his own defence, he wouldn't know how to make it into a shied. He keeps such thoughts out of his mind and focuses on making it to Flaming Spirit Hold.

[tigerusthegreat]

night comes quickly. You do find your way towards Flaming Spirit Hold. As you catch sight of the Hold you hear a growl. Turning you see a cougar about 30ft from you. It looks hungry.

[Volos]

Wolfgang finds that he is actually quite frightened by the sight of such a beast, but decides to stand his ground regardless of how he feels. He is fairly certain that he if were to run, then he would only become prey to an attack from behind. Raising his shield, Wolfgang waits for the beast to strike first.

I'm assuming the surprise round, so I'm taking a standard action to take a Total Defense Action. +4 Dodge Bonus to my AC.

AC 22 / FF 18 / TC 14

[tigerusthegreat]

The cougar charges at you and bites. Only your defensive maneuver saves you from a terrible bite.
[roll0]
[roll1]

[Volos]

Wolfgang takes his shield in two hands, making a mighty cry as he swings it at the cougar. He aims it so that his spikes will connect with the beast in a most painful way. He never felt this determined to harm something before, but after that close call with a savage bite, he seems to let his insticts take over. After the attack he takes a small step away from the beast while waiting for it's next move.

Standard Action
Attack Heavy Spiked Shield [roll0] Crit 20x2
Crit Confirm? [roll1]
Damage [roll2]

Five Foot Step

AC 18 / FF 18 / TC 10

[tigerusthegreat]

Your shield bash pierces the cat's shoulder, causing it to bleed. If anything this angers the cat, but your shield fends off the furious flurry of feline ferocity. (Cat took 5 ft step + full attack)

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]

[Volos]

The cleric realizes he is dealing with a true beast. Putting all of his strength into this next blow, he strikes at the cat with the full force of his shield. This attack would bring the spikes and shield to bear against the cat's head. He retreats again, taking a step toward the nearst piece of vegetation. Perhaps he could benfit from some cover if he could get to a tree or something. He draws a piece of parchment from his bag, holding it in his hand as the beast approaches.

Standard Action
Attack Heavy Spiked Shield [roll0] Crit 20x2
Crit Confirm? [roll1]
Damage [roll2]

Five Foot Step toward a Tree

Move Action
Drawing a Scroll of Enlarge Person from my bag if it will not provoke an AoO. I doubt it will, the cat would have to be huge size to have 10ft reach.

AC 18 / FF 18 / TC 10

[tigerusthegreat]

The cat seems content to follow you as you inch away. It is bleeding badly now from two wounds, but seems intent on eating you. It succeeds partially, clampling down hard on your forearm, teeth penetrating your armor (4 damage).


[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]

[Volos]

Wolfgang forfeits his plan to cast the scroll, and instead focuses on attacking the cat again. It seems his shield bashing has weakened the cat conciderably, and he cannot waste time casting a spell he should have used in the beginning of this fight. He isn't even concidering whether or not it would be a waste to cast it in the first place. Right now there was only him and his foe. This mindset came naturally to him, even though a day ago he would have concidered it so foriegn.

Standard Action
Attack Heavy Spiked Shield [roll0] Crit 20x2
Crit Confirm? [roll1]
Damage [roll2]

Five Foot Step toward a Tree

AC 18 / FF 18 / TC 10

[tigerusthegreat]

Even through all the battering it has received, the cat is still in the fight. Its attacks seem weaker, though, as if it is all but dead. None of them injure you.

[roll0][roll1]
[roll2][roll3]
[roll4][roll5]

[Volos]

Wolfgang feels an upwelling of fighting spirit in these last few moments of the battle. He brings his shield to bare again, making a savage battle cry as he attempts to diliever the final blow to this poweful beast. There is no remorse in his heart, he had to do this.

Standard Action
Attack Heavy Spiked Shield [roll0] Crit 20x2
Crit Confirm? [roll1]
Damage [roll2]

Five Foot Step back.

AC 18 / FF 18 / TC 10

[tigerusthegreat]

You feel yourself getting tired from the fight. Maybe that's why your last shield bash was more of a flop than an attack. The cougar isn't faring much better. One paw batters against your shield, but nothing else comes close.

[roll0][roll1]
[roll2][roll3]
[roll4][roll5]

[Volos]

Calling upon all his strength and his faith, Wolfgang smashes down on the beast with his Shield again. While his body may be weakening, his passion is strong as is his will to fight.

Standard Action
Attack Heavy Spiked Shield [roll0] Crit 20x2
Crit Confirm? [roll1]
Damage [roll2]

Five Foot Step back.

AC 18 / FF 18 / TC 10

[tigerusthegreat]

The battle continues uneventfully. Both combatants trying and failing to strike one another. You notice out of the corner of your eye a single figure standing nearby. He is about fifty feet away, between you and the Flaming Spirit Hold.

[roll0][roll1]
[roll2][roll3]
[roll4][roll5]

[Volos]

Wolfgang notices his spectator, and decides to play up the battle for that very reason. "I am strong! I am strong!" He calls out in the tongue of both the empire and the savages before rushing the cat with another bash of his shield. He wants to use magic but is afraid of the consequences in regards to the savages. If this blow didn't finish the beast, he would have to resort to the scroll he has in hand.

Standard Action
Attack Heavy Spiked Shield [roll0] Crit 20x2
Crit Confirm? [roll1]
Damage [roll2]

Five Foot Step back.

AC 18 / FF 18 / TC 10

[tigerusthegreat]

Your shield bash hits, but at a poor angle. The spike deflects away from the beast thanks to its thick hide. Its claws, however, find the joint in your chest armor, piercing your side. You can feel your side running warm with blood (4 damage, total: 8)

[roll0][roll1]
[roll2][roll3]
[roll4][roll5]

[Volos]

Wolfgang steps back, calling upon the power of the spell that should cause fear but turning into healing energies for himself. Out of the range of the beast's claws, he recovers and waits to see what the cougar's next move will be. As much as his fighting spirit had been awakened, he was no fool.

Five Foot Step Back

Standard Action
Turn Cause Fear into Cure Light Wounds
Concentration Check DC (15) [roll0]
Cure Light Wounds [roll1]

[tigerusthegreat]

You heal yourself, though it doesn't take away all of your injuries. It does dull the pain considerably. The cougar's claws feebly hit your armor, and his bite comes nowhere close.

[roll0][roll1]
[roll2][roll3]
[roll4][roll5]

[Volos]

Wolfgang puts both hands on his shield as he stares down the beast. He lunges forward while swinging up from below. He hopes to take the beast out in this one powerful attack. It isn't likely to work, but atleast he can try.

Standard Action
Attack Heavy Spiked Shield [roll0] Crit 20x2
Crit Confirm? [roll1]
Damage [roll2]

Five Foot Step back.

AC 18 / FF 18 / TC 10

[tigerusthegreat]

The strike takes down the cougar finally. It collapses in a heap, its lifeblood pouring out onto the ground.

"Your form is terrible, and without your magic you'd be dead. Now if you'd had a decent sword instead of using your shield like a spear..."

The dark figure has apparently approached you, or maybe you constant backing up put you close to him. Either way, it is the scarred man that the scribe called Zril. He draws a small flint knife from his belt, and opens the beast's throat. He then begins to skin the beast.

"I warned you that you would not find welcome here. Especially not if you intend to convert us to your religion. Things are happening here that you cannot stop, that you cannot control. Your Empire cannot stop or control it either."

[Volos]

Wolfgang keeps his shield at the ready, seeing Zril's actions near the cougar to be offensive. He had to think like a savage in order to complete his mission. "I am unaccustomed to battle. My shield serves as my weapon as well as my armor. Now... unless you are aiding me to skin this beast, I would suggest you back away Zril. This is my kill, I will not have you claiming it as your own." Wolfgang eyes the coward's shield, knowing it to be of deer hide from what the scribe told him. He cannot discern such a thing himself, or at least he cannot quite yet. More time with these people and he would be able to see such things plainly. "If I have offended you when you've offered help, I apologize. I am determined to make my prowess known to your people so I can help to negotiate some sort of peace."

[tigerusthegreat]

"The glory of killing a single cougar isn't of interest to me. I'll leave this wetwork to you if you know how to properly skin a beast." He stares at you for a moment. "Didn't think so." He continues to skin the beast.

"Why have you come back?"

[Volos]

"I honestly wish for peace between our people, that is why I have returned. If I must learn of your people in order to find a way to make that peace possible, then that is what I will do. The Empire's forces are more than what is seen on this small island. They will destroy you all if I or others cannot stop them or convince you to make peace with them. And... thank you for aiding me with skinning this beast." Wolfgang makes sure to watch Zril's actions, trying to get a decent grasp of how to do it himself later. He wouldn't figure it out completely, but not being a total novice would aid him in his first effort down the road. He tried to keep the contents of his stomach from coming up, despite that they were but tea.

[tigerusthegreat]

As Zril finishes, he says something in his own language. Your grasp on it still isn't great, but you believe he is offering the rest of the kill to the Earth Mother, thanking her for the hide of one of her creatures, and asking for her blessing upon it. He stands, and folds the hide over on itself. He then drapes it over your shoulders.

"If you wish to come and speak with my people, that trophy will help. Do not heal any more of your wounds, they tell your tale of battle better than your words. A foe who cannot harm you is hardly worth the fight, or telling of it." He starts to walk towards the Hold.

[Volos]

Wolfgang seems hard pressed to deny the logic in what the man says. He puts the scroll away in his bag and walks with Zril back to Flaming Spirit Hold. The cleric attempts to not act proud of his kill, simply being satisfied with his victory with no need to boast beyond that. His allows his wounds to stay, beyond his better judgment and past all the pain. He wonders how strong of a shield could be made from this hide, but then he allows the thought to pass. No, he should keep his own shield. Or at least that was what he thought about it for now. "I do not yet grasp the tongue of your people. I must use magic to aid in my words, would that offend them? I can do such magic in secret, but then my time with it is limited."

[tigerusthegreat]

"They allowed you to do it last time, didn't they? I don't think anyone would mind, given that you are trying to understand us rather than outright killing us. I will warn you, there is a power struggle going on right now. Urgon is opposed to the rise of Aggrig, and he is actively fighting back against the Chieftain for some reason. I have only known Aggrig as a proud, silent warrior, willing to do anything he was told. This change has happened since his trip to the Oracle, and his slaying of Orgristin. I am sure you know of that beast, your people sent her on us. With Aggrig killing her, I am no longer the only one to survive her attacks, he shares that honor with me."

Zril gets very quiet as you come to the entrance to the Hold. He has a few quiet words with the guard there, and motions you to follow. He leads you back through the maze to the same meeting area you were at before. He stops in front of you at the entrance. The room appears to be in use, there are eleven middle aged men, sitting in a circle around a fire. The tables and benches are gone. Standing by the fire are two men. One you recognize as Urgon, the priest that hid in the shadows, and Chieftain of this tribe. The other is much younger, perhaps sixteen. He has wounds on his chest and sides, as well as deep gashes on his right forearm that are scabbed over, but clearly fairly new. If the boy continues much more in that fashion, he will look like Zril soon enough. On his arm is a hide shield that seems to glow in the firelight. The Flaming Spirit symbol is fresh and clear on its front.

The two seem to be arguing or debating, but what they are saying isn't too clear. Urgon seems to be saying something about interpreting the will of the Holy Fire. The young man mentions the Oracle, something about visions and fate. Urgon retorts, the only words you catch are prophecy and test. The young man seems to agree, repeating the word test. At that the eleven start talking quickly among themselves, and Urgon has a grim smile on his face.

The young man has something in his face. You aren't sure what it is...conviction maybe, but in either case you know he is not one to be trifled with.

[Volos]

Wolfgang stands with Zril and waits for the men to finish their meeting or for a time to announce his arrival. Compared to this boy's killing, Wolfgang's appears to be little more than the slaying of a cub. He readies himself to cast his magic in order to hear their words more clearly. While he waits he draws out the scroll that discerns lies from truth. He keeps it to himself, as it is nothing for the people of Flaming Spirit Hold to worry about. They do not have a written language, so a piece of parchment with nonsense words wouldn't be of any interest to them. While he can appreciate the warrior spirit, he cannot see the practicality in leaving one's wounds unhealed.

[tigerusthegreat]

The eleven talk for several long minutes. Finally one stands. You think he says he needs to speak with his seer, and he leaves. One by one, others disperse as well. Clearly whatever is being argued will not be decided tonight. Soon Urgon too leaves, leaving only the young man in the meeting hall. A young woman approaches him after the others have left, and they speak softly to each other. She then tends to his wounds, rubbing something on them from a jar and binding them with bandages. Once he is bandaged, he puts on the deer hide shirts you've seen many of the warriors wear, gingerly. It seems his wounds are far from healed. The woman starts to say something, but the young man merely brushes her hair out of her face with his hand, and kisses her.

Zril coughs softly, and the young man looks right at you. He says something to the woman, and she leaves. He nods towards Zril, who brings you forward.

"So you are the missionary." The young man says in the same accented common as Zril. "Do not look shocked, the Warmaster taught me to speak your tongue. His torment at the hands of your mages has done at least that little good. What do you want?"

[Volos]

Wolfgang attempts to get a feeling for the relationship between the young man and the woman. Was that kiss some formal custom or a display of affection between lovers? He did have long to think about it as Zril interrupted his thoughts and made his presence known to the young man. "Yes, I am Wolfgang of the Blessed Moon as you well know. I want what I wanted when I first came here, peace with your people. It seems I cannot teach you of my ways without offence, so teach me of your ways. What is it that makes a man? I have killed this Courgar, but that earns me little to no respect with your people without a proper proving. Or am I wrong?"

Sense Motive [roll0]

[tigerusthegreat]

You are unable to get a clear reading on the relationship.

"The path to being a man is both of martial prowess, as shown in the Trial of the Hunt, as well as intellect, as by the Trial of Knowledge. The former you seem to have completed, the latter must be a recitation of our history, from memory, and in our tongue. Should you wish to be respected at all, you must do that as well. However, such things are not done on a whim. Once these trials are undertaken, you will be a member of this Clan. If you betray us, then we will kill you without hesitation."

He says something to Zril, and you clearly hear the word shield in it. The Warmaster takes the pelt from your shoulders, and heads off into the corner. Gathering a wooden frame, he stretches the pelt onto it, and sets it near the flames to dry and cure.

"You chase the fox as do I. Hear the deafening sound of a million souls speaking as one. I have seen the face of the kindler, have you?"

[Volos]

"I am serious in my intent, I do not seek to betray or tell any lies." Wolfgang seems unwilling to let the man take the skin at first, but then lets him have it once he hears the word for Shield. "Yes, I have had that dream. My shield of steel and spikes turned to that of hide. The Fox spoke to me of how to connect with your people. He spoke without words, it was a strange thing for me to witness. In another dream I saw the one who killed Orgristin as well as the one who witnessed it."

[tigerusthegreat]

"indeed. I am Aggrig, son of Pragna, son of Ethelon. I am the slayer of Orgristin, queen of cats, and a servant of the Holy Flame. You have come at a time to witness history, the twelve gathered here are from the twelve tribes, chiefs and seers, priests and warriors. We are here for a council of war for the barbarisms your people have caused to us. Two nights ago, as you left, I returned with others who has seen the devastation caused to the Earthen Rock clan. I do not hold you responsible, but others might."

[Volos]

"I saw the burnt marks of where it happened in the fields. I did not think the Empire was possible of such terrible acts, but it appears they are. Or at least some of them are, those that are in power aren't always the best men to rule. Or women, depending." Wolfgang sighs heavily, his face showing his anger and sadness. "That display sickened me, and has caused in me a great hatred for those who committed such acts. As I understand it they were the men under the order of one man, and a good deal of them have fallen to either your hand or to the beasts of nature. What cowards they must have been to burn those of Earthen Home yet fall prey to simple beasts that even a peaceful cleric can defeat?" He was trying to find common ground with them while truthfully expressing his feelings about what he saw and has heard. Wolfgang realized he was offering them information that was not his to give, but any Governor terrible enough to call for such actions was beyond the forgiveness of the Moon Mother.

[tigerusthegreat]

"the deaths were on the head of the soldiers. The burning was a funeral pyre."

[Volos]

Wolfgang feels foolsih for a moment, sighing and shaking his head. "It wasn't the method that I was offended by but rather the act itself. I am glad, at least, that you were able to give final rites to them. I have heard horrible tales of people who do not leave the bodies of the fallen for their enemy to recover."

[tigerusthegreat]

Aggrig says nothing. It seems to be a touchy subject, and you can understand that. Hundreds of his countrymen have been killed for almost nothing.

"I killed two of those soldiers. I am not sorry. They were attempting to force themselves on Lilen, and so I killed them. I will kill as many as I have to if they wish a war. Zril has turned the hide of Orgristin into an inpenetrable shield, and I will use it."

[Volos]

"As should be your right for slaying such a mighty beast. But complete war is not the answer nor a solution to our current problem. We need to remove those who are aggressively pursuing war from within the Empire. The people have been fooled into hating you, but if they knew the truth they wouldn't allow such a terrible war. You must realize this."

[tigerusthegreat]

"We are no assassins, such things are dishonorable, nor are we politicians, something even worse. There are always more that seek power, that will come to this land as long as the Empire has a foothold on it. No, we must drive them into the sea."

[Volos]

"Believe what you will for now. I am here to learn of your ways and to make peace between the tribes of Holy Fire and the Empire of Blessed Moon. Why is it that we both had the same dream with the fox? Is this a symbol of your god or a message from a powerful holy man who knows magic within your tribes? I am sorry if I ask so many questions, but I know so little." Wolfgang felt rather embarrassed that he was apologizing to a boy who was years younger than himself, even if he had killed such a beast. It was becoming obvious that his logic wasn't penetrating their hatred for the Empire. He wondered if after these trials he would be able to speak to them and actually be heard. He also pondered if they were thinking the same thing of him, was Wolfgang actually hearing them?

[tigerusthegreat]

"The fox is a form the Flame takes in some visions. There are others as well, but that is the one i have seen. I do not know of anyone within our people that could use magic, especially in that way. If we could, there would be no need to gather together, when we could send messages in our dreams."

[Volos]

"Well then, from whom do I learn of your people's history? And how can I make myself useful when I am not learning your tongue or tales? Back in the temple of my homeland I learned the ways of the Blessed Moon and of how to be a cleric. But at the same time I was expected to prepare food, clean, do chores, and be useful in general. So, what can I do while waiting for my shield to be finished?"

[tigerusthegreat]

After some consultation, you are to be assigned to Zril, and instructed as a hordeling, the term used for the young boys learning the ways of the warrior. Because of his knowledge, Zril will also be tutoring you on language and you will be acting as a servant to him.

That is why you were set into a small room, runnong a stone over the first of twenty iron blades, sharpening them to a fine edge. Zril sits silently watching you with his eye.

[Volos]

Wolfgang removes all of his armor except that of his gauntlets, and puts on his traveler's clothing for this task. This way his hands are protected and he isn't going to sweat himself to death in that heavy suit of metal. If Zril had objection to his methods, Wolfgang would follow instruction. He was careful with the blades, treating them as if they were deadly on their own. It was obvious he wasn't comfortable around so many weapons. "I thought you used Obsidian, that black glass like rock. Or are those special?" Wolfgang attempted to use as many of their words as possible without the help of magic. He wasn't going to be able to rely on a translator forever.

[tigerusthegreat]

As Zril speaks to you, he translates anything you aren't quite getting. Its very difficult, but eventually you will understand the language.

"Many of our younger warriors do, but only to teach them to care for such a blade. An Obsidian sword holds an edge only briefly, and so you must clean it and sharpen it constantly. An iron one holds an edge better, but works better if you clean and sharpen it more often than it absolutely needs. It also makes the Trial of the Hunt more difficult, as an obsidian blade and no shield is what the hordeling has to use...and his wits of course."

[Volos]

"That would impart respect for care of one's weapon to the hordeling if they had to be careful to keep such a fragile blade sharp. My hunt was done in the opposite manner, with a shield and no sword. Am I seen as less of a hunter for that? Or am I not seen as one at all yet?" Wolfgang removed his gauntlets, wanting to get a feel for the blade as he worked with it. He still wore the leather gloves that came with his traveler's clothing, but it felt like he was alot closer to the work without having the dull metal of the gauntlet between him and that which he was taking care of.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Killing a cougar is not a trifle, whatever the method. As you have earned a shield, I believe none will question your method. Some of our own do not have that honor, and some have had it stripped from them. Rarsh, a youthful rival of Aggrig, cheated on his trial. Because of this, he has been stripped of his shield, and now he wields two blades, seeking an honorable death to atone for his dishonor."

You see he is working on repairing a wooden framework. It seems to be the size and shape of many of the shields you have seen.

[Volos]

"An honorable death... I see. One must fight on their own strength and without help, otherwise they are seen as weak or without honor. Is it possible to add the fangs and claws of my kill to that shield? So that which threatened my life and died in honorable combat can become part of what will protect me and fight on my behalf? I plan to learn the sword, as is your people's way. But I am already skilled with the shield and would like to be able to make good use of that training." Wolfgang sounded more curious than demanding. He was interested in any information he could pry from Zril before the man tired of answering such questions.

[tigerusthegreat]

"I do not see why not. It would certainly make your shield unique, which is another aspect of the tradition. You may not notice from shield to shield, but each is adorned or made in a way unique for the warrior. Aggrig's is one of the few that shows it outright, and that is my finest work. I had to put everything I could into it, I owe him much for slaying Orgristin."

[Volos]

"As a shield crafter you are an important part of this community, your work gives protection and individuality to each warrior honorable enough to have earned one. Perhaps when I am done with my work I can head out to obtain the claws and fangs? I'm almost done sharpening these blades, and I don't want to stop halfway through." Wolfgang was enjoying the hard work, seeing the progress he was making little by little. Something about it reminded him of his days in the temple as a young boy, working for the priests in cleaning, cooking, and chores. Even with the gloves it was beginning to hurt his hands. Wolfgang had forgotten how hard work could be since he became a full fledged cleric.

[tigerusthegreat]

"If you wish." Zril says. "Each has his value to society. The warriors protect until they are too old and weary to do so, then they teach others, or serve some other useful task, like shield making. The priests guide us through prayer and ritual, and our seers seek the will of the Flame. There are, of course, our swineherds, healers, cooks, masons, and dozens of other professions, but the first three are considered most important."

[Volos]

"Who is considered higher between the warriors, shield makers, and priests? Are there any who are two of these or perhaps all three? All people of the tribe are important, as the tribe cannot function if even a single group was removed. It is the same with the Empire, they have guards, priests, craftsmen. While these are important it is those in the realm of politics that seem the most esteemed. This leads to many issues, I can respect the simplicity of the culture here. It is not corrupted, or I have yet to see any such corruption." Wolfgang finishes sharpening his last blade for this day, inspecting it with a piece of stray grass. If the blade can cut the grass in half as it falls against the edge, then it is sharp. If not, then he attempts to continue sharpening it until it reaches this level of precision.

[tigerusthegreat]

You do your best on the blades, and Zril considers them "passable." However, your previous training has shown you that your superiors often put down your accomplishments to keep you willing to be a student.

"We value the individual over their profession. Rarsh is still a warrior, but he is of the lowest kind among our people. Few will speak of him or to him, and most wish he would go out into the wilds to die. Aggrig is one of the few who speaks to him, though I do not know why. Urgon is highly respected because he has become Chieftain, though among Priests he is not outstanding. Aggrig, meanwhile, is a mere pup, but he has earned much honor and respect, if not acclaim because of his exploits."

[Volos]

Wolfgang knows that he isn't nearly good enough at sharpening the blades or any of the other tasks which he would be assigned in the near future, but he would give it all he had to improve his work. "It is not the same in the Empire. You aren't an individual, you're a citizen. One of many. Few are able to become individuals, and fewer still are given recognition for that. Those who do are the politicians, the high priests, and the high ranking military officers. The common people aren't able to rise up to such a statue from nothing. It's rare. May I head out to obtain the fangs and claws Master Zril? And would you like to accompany me so I don't ruin it completely?" Wolfgang was hinting that Zril's mastery with animals was not only impressive, but something he wished to learn from firsthand.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Perhaps you can now understand, or begin to, why we have no desire to be part of your Empire. We value our way of life, and wish for no other. And the boy shows us what potential we have." The Warmaster stands. "I will accompany you, but we must be swift. The night is all but over."

As you leave the caves, it is still deep night. Zril instructs you on the proper removal of the sharpest claws and teeth. The task does not take long, though Zril seems eager to return to the cave. "We take what we need, and offer the rest to the Earth Mother. She provides, and so we return what we can."

[Volos]

"I am starting to see that now." Wolfgang silences himself for once, allowing the warmaster show him the way of things without constant questioning or interruption. When it came time to extract the claws and fangs, Wolfgang was careful to follow instruction to the letter. He didn't want to do what he thought might feel right or would be quicker, he did simply as Zril told him. Some part of him felt like it knew what should happen, but he ignored that and pushed it down. "The Earth Mother? Nature you mean. It provided this worthy opponent, and I defeated it. So I take it's hide as my shield and it's weapons as my own to honor it's memory. What I cannot use I return to Nature to thank it for the gift of a great battle and the tools I could make of my opponent. Is that about right?" Knowing that Zril wanted to return quickly, Wolfgang would walk while asking his questions. He didn't wish for his master to die of fright at the sight of the sun.

OOC: This story has really drawn me in. I'm not sure what is becoming of Wolfgang with all this new experiences and knowledge. He still has his faith for now, but we will see how things advance from here. Again I would like to thank you for running such an amazing game. Whether or not you think so, you're an accomplished storyteller and dungeon master (or game master if you prefer). I am honored to roleplay with you.

[tigerusthegreat]

"that is a fair understanding. Let me show you to your quarters.". He shows you to a small room with a straw mat and little else. You have been up for over 24 hours, and are very tired, and sore from sharpening blades. Zril disappears, leaving you alone.

Ooc: glad you like it. You have earned 2000 xp from various rp sources and the combat.

[Volos]

"You are a good teacher Master Zril. Good day." Wolfgang takes time to pray to his goddess for the wisdom to learn and the faith to continue in his mission. He would learn of these people to make peace, no matter what it took. Even when he was near collaspe he couldn't help but take joy in prayer. Though as soon as he was done he fainted to sleep.

OOC: I've leved my sheet. Here is my HP roll. [roll0] How much health do I recover by sleeping? Wolfgang is letting his wounds heal naturally like Zril told him.

[tigerusthegreat]

Ooc: 1 hp per level for every day, dpuble for resting days (low/no activity). No healing for today since you were very strained.

Ic: you dream of a thunderstorm about to break. It does not rain, but the clouds are dark and ominous. In the distance thunder sounds. You see armies arrayed for battle. At theirr head is a man clothed in the robes worn by the highest members of your order. He points at you and white lightning strikes. You fend it off with a shield...one of hide adorned with the teeth and claws of a cougar. The dream fades to haze, and you wake ligttle rested.

[Volos]

Wolfgang takes time to tend to his wounds upon awakening, using the spell he planned for protecting him from evil forces. He allowed the marks to stay the night, he did not need to have them scar his body to the same condition that they had his teacher. The wounds wouldn't heal with his work and study, he would just use a bit of divine magic. Having finished with that he seeks out his teacher, looking for him near where his shield was being made. "Zril?" It was likely he had slept in and his teacher was waiting nearby without his knowing. Wolfgang felt much like a child at times in this place, unaware of all that was happening under the surface.

Turned Protection From Evil into Cure Light [roll0]

[tigerusthegreat]

Your wounds are healed, and you are able to find the Warmaster in the meeting/common room. He is eating with a group of young boys, and motions for you to join. The fare is a light grain porridge. Fairly bland, but filling. As you enter the boys go quiet. Zril says nothing, but keeps eating.

[Volos]

Wolfgang shows respect by staying silent and not bothering the boys while eating his simple meal. It was much like what he was used to back at the temple, even though some of his meals had been more substanial since then. He sits near Zril if that seems to be allowed. Wolfgang refuses to look down or avert his gaze from the boys. He looks to each of them for an equal amount of time, a few passing moments, before his eyes rest on his Master. He would take in time in eating, almost dreading the work he'd be put to this day. As proud as he was of his work ethic, it was harsh on his untrained body.

[tigerusthegreat]

Zril rises, and the boys do as well. You now notice they each wear an obsidian sword on their sides.

"Ranso, Birtra, Malachin. You three will instruct our new student on the basics of the sword." The warmaster hands you a leather scabbard, inside is an obsidian sword much like the others. The group heads outside the cave, and all but three start sparring in the tall grasses. They are clearly skilled at this sort of swordplay, making you wonder what the true warriors could do.

The three that are not sparring are trying to teach you the proper way to hold your sword, and a dozen other things. It is very overwhelming, and it is clear that you are going to be expected to fight these boys to prove you have learned the basics.


OOC: Make an intelligence check by the way.

[Volos]

Wolfgang tries to think of the blade as an extention of his arm, which ultimately leads to him nearly cutting off his ear while making a flip with the blade. He forgoes his own ideas and just listens to the boys, which is difficult with the language barrier between them. He conciders using his magic, but figures he should try to learn more of their tongue before resorting to it.

[roll0]

[tigerusthegreat]

Through your careful study you are closer to a full understanding of the language than before. A few more days of this and you will be able to communicate at least as well as these children, though it will take mmuch longer to fully understand the language.

You don't cut off anything vital, though some of your hair does get sliced. You don't come close to hitting the boys until the end of the lesson, where Ranso is forced to parry your strike. It is embarrassing to be outdone by mere children, but you learn a great deal. After the lessons you all return to the meeting area. The boys beging shining and sharpening their blades. Zril is working with the frame he mended yesterday. He is layering thin strips of leather on it, then taking a bone needle and thread to sew ot together. His work is masterful, and he doesn't remove a single stitch, and he sews quickly. The shield begins to take shape as the leather piles up upon it.

[Volos]

Wolfgang wasn't going to waste time marveling over Master Zril's workmanship, but rather went to look for tools to use on his Obsidian blade. He would ask the other boys how to make his blade sharp without breaking it. While his eyes would glance over to Zril, he would try to keep focused on the care of his blade. He wouldn't assume that it was the same as iron, and he wouldn't begin working on it without instruction.

[tigerusthegreat]

You learn swiftly that obsidian requires a softer hand than iron. Sharpening is only half the battle, as it also needs to be shined and polished to remove any imperfections in the stone surface. Without both, it will not cut cleanly. The softer actions are even harder to sustain than the hard ones against iron. Your muscles scream at you as you work. Surprisingly you are not the last to finish, several of the boys are still polishing when you are done. The others seem to be waiting for something. Zril continues his work.

[Volos]

Wolfgang just wasn't used to such careful work. Cutting wood, moving huge piles of books, and training in armor was more suited to him. He was surprised to see that he finished before others, but remained humble about it. He did have the benifit of practice with iron the day before and a singular dedication to his work. The other boys could understand any conversations nearby or talk to each other while Wolfgang hadn't the same grasp of the langauge or culture quite yet. "What now?" He stuck to simple words to avoid misunderstandings.

[tigerusthegreat]

Zril seems to call on each of the students in turn, and they recite something. Your command over the language is not good enough to fully understand, let alone repeat, what is said, but you do get the gist of things. Zril does not call on you.

They talk about four individuals. The first, named Bralakar, was a powerful war leader. He had a magical staff that bolstered the soldiers under his command. He united the tribes, and drove the plains-dwellers to the cliffs of the sea. A foul servant of the black night came, with its minions of bone and rotted flesh, and came for Bralakar in the night. They cursed the staff, and the army melted away back to their homes. Thus ended the First Horde.

The second, Lug the invincible, was a mighty Gladiator in the times when there was a great arena under Flame's Pinnacle, before the plains-dwellers captured the mountain and raised a fortress upon it. Lug was the strongest man of his generation, and unparalleled in combat. He sought no glory, only destruction of the plains-dwellers. Others joined his cause, and soon a small roving band, and then an army struck and burned whereever the plains-dwellers were. The tribes again united, though Lug did not wish for leadership. Again the plains-dwellers were driven to the seas, but the foul mages and their moon-magic found Lug's weakness. They twisted his mind, and he struck indiscriminately. He slew many, both friend and foe, before tearing off his armor, casting off his shield, and jumping from the cliffs into the sea. Thus ended the Second Horde.

The third, Tralatar the Resolute, was first a foolish boy, and then a chosen of the flame. He took a bet that he could dive to the deeps of the rushing waters under Flame's Rest Hold. He did so, and did not surface for three days. Believed dead, he was mourned, and funeral prayers said. During the final parts of the ceremony, he resurfaced, having found a pocket of air under the stone. Starved, frozen, and near death, he slept for nine days. He communed with the Holy Fire, and saw his destiny. The exposure had strengthened his skin and spirit, and he asked to lead an army. The Priests agreed, each sending their troops, and Tralatar rampaged across the land. The plains-dwellers sent armies after him, and all failed. Their cursed wizards came next, targeting him as they had Lug. Their magic rebounded upon themselves, unable to penetrate the cold barrier that surrounded his soul. Tralatar drove the plains-dwellers to the sea, and at the final battle, as they tried to flee on their ships, he called for a final charge. His Flame, burning brightly during his trials and the campaign, finally burned itself out. He fell over dead without an enemy arrow or spell hitting him. The mourning for this great warrior was so great, the advantage was not pressed, and the plains-dwellers were allowed a foothold. Thus passed the third horde.

The fourth, Prak the Blessed, was a chosen one of the Flame. He spoke and communed with the Holy Fire. The leaders of the tribes did not believe him, especially when he asked for them to drive the plains-dwellers into the sea as the previous three masters had tried. His request was refused, and he offered to prove his faith by any test they could device. They staked him to the ground outside of Flame's Rest Hold, so he could prove himself. Should his Inner Flame remain on the earth, and not be drawn into the Holy Fire for three days, his words would be truth, and he would be given an army. He survived the kiss of the Holy Fire, and was given his army. He led them straight to the ports. A massive battle ensued, which lasted into the day. The Holy Fire masked itself for the battle, darkening the world. Prak fought a mighty servant of the moon witch, and was paralyzed by its magic. The eclipse faded, and the army fled in fear. Prak was tortured, but his spirit would not leave to join the Holy Flame until he had hung from the White Spires for three days.

You keep hearing "Harajil" which is a word that came up several times between the conversation that Urgon and Aggrig had before the eleven other Chieftains.

[Volos]

Wolfgang wondered if this was the verbal tradition that he had heard of, the one he had to commit to memory and recite for his second trial. He didn't struggle to remember everything this time, but rather to get the idea of what happened in the stories. These were men of great power who were able to have the savages push the Empire back into the sea. The difference between their forces and their weaponry was vast, yet these people were able to prevail.

[tigerusthegreat]

Zril dismisses the others. After they leave he speaks to you.

"These boys have been studying for some time to learn this tradition. I do not expect you to be able to learn it swiftly, given your limited command over our language. This is a true test of your commitment to understanding us and our history. As you can see, it has not been an easy history."

[Volos]

"Yes, your hatred for the Empire goes back for many eras of your people's history. I can see how foolish I must seem for coming and asking for peace between you. That doesn't change my mission though, I am still a servant of peace. While I may become a warrior through this training and learn of your history and culture, I am still myself. My blade will be drawn when only nessesary, my tongue will speak no hateful words, my mind will not be clouded by the fog of war, and my heart will not be tainted by anger. Forgive my rambling master, I am finding myself more insightful since I've met you." Wolfgang seems a little embarassed by his sudden speech, not even sure where it was coming from. Perhaps it was after hearing the boys speak for so long that he wished to express himself in a similar fashion. He wanted to give his Master a better idea of who he was as well. Who would want to teach a student they didn't even know?

[tigerusthegreat]

"I have seen many of these lads grow from their mother's teat to where they are now. It may seem strange for an old warrior to say so, as he trains another generation to fight, but I wish for peace. I do not think it will come while both the Empire and the People of the Flame exist on this island. The many strange events that have happened...I hope they will bring a change." He sets aside his work, and flexes his calloused hands.

"I need to teach you the things these boys know from childhood. Our traditions, our beliefs, our methods...However, you have a brain, so I will challenge you. Why is it, do you think, that when we consult the Oracle we send three: a priest, a warrior, and a seer?"

[Volos]

"Each has a different world view. I would think you send them so that they can come to a majority agreement on what the true interpretation of what Oracle has told them. A warrior does not see things the way a priest or seer would. And their motives are vastly different." Wolfgang was honestly guessing, he didn't really have a good foothold of this sort of thing.

Knowledge Religion [roll0]

[tigerusthegreat]

There is nothing similar enough in your study of religion to provide some hint as to the answer.

"You answer isn't bad, but it is wrong. The journey to the Oracle is taken together, but each speaks to her alone, and their augeries are not usually shared. For the journey, the warrior provides protection and physical strength, the priest provides knowledge of the necessary rituals, and spiritual strength, and the seer provides interpretation of signs and the will of the Flame during the journey, and usually understands more fully the Oracle's words to him or her. Aggrig went as the warrior, his brother...not his sibling, but what you would consider a cousin, Bacra was his seer, and Urgon assigned the young Priestess Lilen, whom you saw tend to Aggrig's wounds, to the journey. They did not share the words of the Oracle, merely their interpretations of them. Aggrig believes that war will come and the tribes must be united under a Harajil, or a Master. The prophecies have claimed a fifth Master will also be the last. The War Council is nervous of this, as it is uncertain whether this will end us, or end our need for war."

[Volos]

"My answer was but a guess master, for I am still but a learner. The boys earlier said the word Harajil, which you say means Master. As did the men in council when I arrived with you shortly after my battle with my courgar. The council is discussing whether or not to go to war based on what Aggrig interpreted from the Oracle. What of Bacra the Seer and The Priestess Lilen? What did they believe the Orcale had said?"

[tigerusthegreat]

"They support what Aggrig is doing, though they have said nothing as to their own augeries. The trip to the Oracle changed Aggrig, as it did all three of them. The clearest of it is that Bacra no longer treats Aggrig like a child, and Aggrig is clearly no longer the boy he once was. Something changed both of them. I don't think you need to be a Seer to realize that something happened between Lilen and Aggrig as well. Those two did not get along at all, and avoided each other for most of their lives. The difference in their callings kept them separate for the last few years. The boy has asked me to stand for him in place of Pragna should she consent to be his wife." At the mention of Aggrig's father, Zril seems very saddened.

"I would feel differently about it, had his father died in battle, but he was murdered in his sleep. He also was a warrior, and was returning on a journey to the Oracle, along with Urgon, then just a lowly Priest, and a Seer. His name is not mentioned, and we would all rather forget about him, but as an old warrior it is a duty I take on to remember such things. He was named Bartor, and should he ever enter this hold again I will slay him."

[Volos]

"A coward killed a great warrior...? That is terrible. I had no idea that had happened to Aggrig. An honorable death or a good life would ease the pain of his father's passing, but something like that is just wrong. How is it that this Bartor was able to get away? We should hunt him down and make him answer for his crimes. If I happen across such a man I will not slay him, as I am not one of this tribe. Not yet. I would do what I could to bring him here to give Aggrig a chance to know his father's killer before justice is served. What would happen if I were able to arrest this man?"

[tigerusthegreat]

"He is exiled. He only deserve death should he try to come among us again. He could repent his actions, and serve as Aggrig's servant for seven years to have the debt forgiven, but that is up to the boy, and I do not believe he knows the truth of what happened. Nor has Bartor sought such forgiveness. Last I heard he believes himself innocent, but Urgon found him with the body of Pragna, and little else can explain it."

[Volos]

"It is a difficult situation, no matter what the truth is. What are my lessons or tasks for the rest of the day, my master? I wish to make myself useful and to learn as much as I can." Wolfgang seemed eager even though he was still recovering from the blade training earlier. He was not yet old, but his body still had to grow accustomed to such work. He wondered if something else could have happened to cause the death of Pragna. Wolfgang had heard of many cases in the Empire where there was a death blamed on one party by only one witness. The truth could not be determined between the word of one man to another. In those cases magic would be used to find the truth. It had been too long since the event for that to be an option.

[tigerusthegreat]

"find Bacra and see if he will show you the methods of our seers. I assume you want to know as much of our ways as possible, and our religious beliefs seem a good place for a priest to start with."

[Volos]

"I have some training in the faith of the minor gods worshiped within the Empire. My mind is not closed to the ways of others, even though my heart is set on my goddess the Blessed Moon. I will do as you command master, thank you for everything you've done for me so far. If there is anything I can do for you, please let me know. Where is this Bacra?" Once recieving directions or being told who would know how to find Bacra, Wolfgang would leave to seek out the seer. His own training had been a mix of martial prowess and religious teachings from his days as a boy. He knew how to defend himself, but more importantly how to defend others. His religious training was a major focus for him, even though his talents lended him toward strength of body and prowess in combat. Strange that a lover of peace would be so adept at war.

[tigerusthegreat]

You find Bacra easily enough. He is sitting in one of the innermost rooms. There is a strange smell in the air you cannot identify. It is a sweet, earthy scent. There is a large fire burning in the middle of the room. The seer says nothing to you. The room is very hot, though you do not see bacra sweat.

[Volos]

Wolfgang was suddenly glad that he wasn't wearing his armor, as it would be a bit of a death trap in such a hot room. Still he wasn't very comfortable within it due to the heat and odd smells. Suppressing an urge to cough, the cleric would wait to be acknowledged by the seer. If the man was communing with their god or meditating, an interruption would not only be rude but perhaps a punishable offence.

[tigerusthegreat]

The fire is very mesmerizing. Your mind begins to wander...or maybe it is the heat and smells.

[Volos]

Wolfgang allows his mind to wander, thinking on those visions he has had before. Those of the flaming fox and of himself with a hide shield fighting against the empire. Or was it some other warrior whose eyes he was looking through as it had been with the slaying of the great cougar? He knew not, but he seeked the answers to these questions within himself and without of himself.

[tigerusthegreat]

You see the fierce eyes of the priest who faced you in your dreams stare out at you from the flames. As you look at it, the room seems to fade and you find yourself in the entryway to a larch church. It looks like the one you passed getting off the boat, with tall whitee spires. The man stares down at you. You are now in a court room, within a circle of truth. You are bombarded with questions, though you do not know what answers you give. You are hung from the spires, wrists attached to ropes, arms and back aching from the strain, thirsting...starving....dying. as your vision fades, you see a host coming with the dawn. Thousands, at their head are two figures...tall and strong, both shields that do not gleam in the Sunlight.

[Volos]

As this dream takes its grip on Wolfgang, he forgets is true life. He believes that he is this man, this savage who was taken slave by the Empire, Prak the Blessed. He tries to ask them what they want when he is questioned, not knowing what answers they wish to hear. And as he is strung up to die, he prays for his people. Seeing the host on the very edge of his blurred vision, he wonders if it is them or if is the servants of evil that brought him to this place. What would cause their sheilds to not shine within the light of the sun. Were they the hide shields of his people or some foul twisted metal used by the forces of darkness as were told to have come during the First Horde?

[tigerusthegreat]

As your vision goes to blackness you look down. Though torn and bloodstained, the robes you wear are of your order, in fact you have worn such fair whenever at the temple. Suddenly you are back in the caves. Bacra is gone, and you find many hours have passed and you are tired. A young woman brings you a few cakes of the grainy bread, and some water. You find your hunger gone, but your thirst is present.

[Volos]

Was that... was that me? Wolfgang is disturbed by his vision, taking the water from the woman but refusing to eat any more than a bite or two of the food offered. He finds himself in a sweat, though he has grown accustomed to the room's heat. Why would I be questioned and left to die? Or was another of my order put to such a death? They will not trust me after this, if I become any closer to the savages I will lose all ties to the Empire. He was trying his best not to panic, but without anyone to speak to that would be difficult. He would seek out Zril if he could manage to walk without losing what little food he had already eaten.

[tigerusthegreat]

Fortunately the Warmaster is an old campaigner, who sleeps little and is used to being awakened in the middle of a sound sleep. He arises perfectly coherent.

"If you are seeking further duties I can always create some. It is hard to clean stone to a shine, but I imagine I can set you at such a task."

[Volos]

"I have... failed you master. I sought Bacra but fell prey to another vision and never spoke to him. A task to keep my mind busy for the night would be welcome, I doubt I can sleep after seeing what I did. It was terrible... why would they do such a thing?" Wolfgang was visibly shaking, his trust in the Empire was at quesiton and his faith seemed further and further away. Was he willing to give up all he knew to make peace with these people? They surely wouldn't let him leave now. No, he couldn't go back even now if he could find a way out. His mind full of this panicked thoughts, his body reacting to them by shivering and growing weary.

[tigerusthegreat]

Zril was asleep, but being an old campaigner he seems used to such things, and is quickly coherent.

"Looking for more work? I could have you try to polish these floor stones to diamonds."

[Volos]

Wolfgang realized that he shouldn't bother his master at all odd hours for such personal concerns. He nods slowly, sighing heavily while answering. "Yes. I could do that." He takes the tools needed and gets to work, not stopping for anything and not speaking his mind. He wanted to know what that vision was about and why he had to have it. It terrified him that his own people would do that to anyone of the Moon Mother's temple.

[tigerusthegreat]

As you begin your work, a young woman stops you. You recognize her as the one who tended Aggrig's wounds...Lilen. "Bacra told me you were in the midst of a vision. It has clearly bothered you. Do you wish to talk about it, perhaps I can provide some insight into your troubles...or at least put your mind at ease."

[Volos]

"My troubles are my own, no concern of Flaming Spirit Hold or the Empire's... I am alone, that much has been made clear." Wolfgang was on the verge of tears, but did not want to appear weak infront of this woman. She may seem gentle and caring, but she was a priestess of a faith that opposed his. For all he knew she could take advantage of his shaken faith to convert him to their ways. He wasn't pulling from her, but he wasn't opening up either. "What would you know of it?" He continues to polish the floor, lest his hands start to tremble again.

[tigerusthegreat]

"I know that you and your quest troubles my lishanan (a word you do not know) and what bothers him bothers me. It does not take a womans instinct to recognize a man trying to avoid sleep. You do not wish to have dreams, perhaps your dreams trouble you. Such a paradox, you run from the fox, and Aggrig chases it. Perhaps instead of waiting, you should strike the snake."

[Volos]

"Every time I sleep I see visions, and my last vision was of my death at the hand of my own people. Imagine your friends beating near to death, then stringing you up for everyone to see. No... I don't imagine you could, your people are so well connected. Betrayal is all but unknown to you." In his pain and anger Wolfgang had forgotten what was just told him by his master, of the one that took Aggrig father's life. He knew this woman was connected to Aggrig somehow, perhaps they were to be wed.

[tigerusthegreat]

"we know of betrayal and life without honor...such things happen even among our people. Perhaps it is more common among yours, but your shock at experiencing it tells me otherwise."

She looks into your eyes, staring almost through you.

"dreams and visions come in three kinds. The first, and most common, are mere nonsense. The second is a premonition of what will or must happen, these are unchangeable and the seer's response to it will dictate the course of events that lead to it. The final kind is a warning...a telling of what will happen. Only a skilled seer can differentiate his visions, and often what one sees another will disagree with. Even the Oracle asks us to interpret what we see when we visit her. I noticed her, she was great with child and wore the shikranan, the wedded shawl worn by wives and mothers. Bacra noticed that her eyes did not see, and only Aggrig saw the carvings on the walls of the cave. Each missed the other signs but saw those important to themselves."

[Volos]

"My dream could be what is to come, or it could be a warning? Even still, seeing that my people would be willing to do that to me is a terrible shock. I am not skilled as a seer, but with this vision I realize that I must choose a side. Ether I am to become one of your tribe and forego all that I know and hold dear, or I return to my people and hope that they have not yet considered me a traitor. There is no assurance that any choice I make will spare me from this fate. I... must consult with my goddess. If she does not speak to me, perhaps I am already lost to her." Wolfgang continued his work while talking, as it was the only thing keeping him sane through all of this.

[tigerusthegreat]

"perhaps communing with your goddess will give you the insight you require, whatever it may be. Do not think we will hold you as an enemy if you leave. Such things are understandable. If you take arms against us, then we will be betrayed."

She leaves you to your work.

[Volos]

Wolfgang waits until she is just far enough away that she is still within earshot. "...thank you." His work slows, as he focuses his mind on his goddess. He continues to polish the floors, keeping his body from shaking while his prayers and heart go out to the most Blessed Moon. My Goddess... save me from my dreams. I see such terrible sights, I do not want them. I cannot imagine these visions are from you. What am I to do to make peace with these people? They are kind to me, perhaps too kind. I will not turn from you, even in the church... no, even if the empire stands against me. None will take my faith from you. Even if I become one of these people I will worship your name, profress my faith in you, prove myself to them and show that you are the true goddess of this world. Please... speak to me. Whisper a word to my soul, feed me with your love. I need a sign. Let me know... that I haven't failed you.

[tigerusthegreat]

You hear the murmur of a conversation. You only hear three words. Oracle and flames rest.

[Volos]

Wolfgang listens closer to see if what he is hearing is coming from within or from someone nearby. Oracle, flames rest... what could this mean? He feels tired, and conciders finally heading to bed for an hour or so of sleep.

[tigerusthegreat]

The whole hold is dead quiet. You aren't sure if you really heard the talking or not. The lack of sleep seems to be playing with your mind.

[Volos]

Wolfgang has recieved some comfort from the words of the woman who spoke to him earlier, the one who was a priestess. Now he is less fearful to rest and not as stressed over making his decision at this exact moment. He finds his bed and lays to rest, wishing for undisturbed sleep as he lays down to bed.

[tigerusthegreat]

You fall asleep as soon as you lay down. You are in a dark cave. Suddenly a light flares before you. There are carvings on the wall, and a fire in the center. Opposite of you is a young and beautiful woman. She smiles at you.

"The Imperial Priest visits me at last, I who call to him in dream and vision. Do you think you can hide from me? Especially when you seek what knowledge I have?"

[Volos]

"Is it you that has given me these visions. Never before have I seen such things in my dreams. I was but a simple cleric and now I am a seer. What knowledge of yours have I been seeking then?" Wolfgang keeps his tone respectful, knowing that this could very well be one of the many forms of the Mother Moon.

[tigerusthegreat]

"You seek a way to end a conflict...to unite two very different peoples with peace. You are not of either of them. Not yet are you of the Flame, though the path you toe at indecisively, nor are you now of the Empire, though you bear their symbol, dress and language. To which will you turn when fate strikes? To aid the Flame is to turn your back on the White. To aid the White is to turn your back on the Flame. To seek peace is to sacrifice everything on a hope." She steps around the fire pit to come to your side. You notice now that she is with child.

"He is the fox, and I am the rabbit. We dance for eternity, meeting only briefly and parting bitterly. He sires all the people, though claims some as his chosen. I mother them, though many do not know me. The hills and forests tremble with what is to come, but only after two great heroes shall Grandmother Earth be at peace."

The vision fades, and you are led into another dream. Your foe on the battlefield, and your inquisitor stares at you in a black space. He wears the robes of the upper echelons of your order. He speaks, and you can hear him clearly.

"How goes your work, missionary? Forgive my intrusion into your dreams, but we have not heard from you in many days. War is brewing, as I am sure you know, and you are being recalled to New Regus for reassignment. You should be thankful for it, you will probably be taken back to a proper city to work as a teacher in the temples. There are too few frontiers now for missionaries to have many assignments."

[Volos]

Wolfgang is confused by the vision of the woman with child. It is the Moon Mother at her fullest? Or is this the oracle that he had heard of from Zril and others? They could be one in the same, but that was too much for his mind or heart to handle at this moment. Just as he opens his mouth to respond, his dream is invaded by someone he never expected to see. "I've made great progress with the people of Flaming Spirit Hold. Why am I being recalled? I am in no danger with these people and I've made contact with their new leader. He is young but wise, and should accept my council on matters of war and peace soon. I have also spoken with his wife or wife to be, and may be able to convince her to aid me in this. The goddess has been sending me visions of what is to come, surely there is a reason for me to remain here."

[tigerusthegreat]

"The decision has been made to eliminate them rather than wait for an uprising to happen when we are off our guard. We have sufficient troops here, and a militia force has been called up as well. You should return as swiftly as possible, otherwise you may not be able to escape and will be held as a hostage."

[Volos]

"You serve the Blessed Moon, a goddess of peace, love, and protection. Why are you so eager for war? These people will only fight to protect themselves. We need to have a meeting between represenatives set. A strike against them will only cause war, not prevent it! Why is this so hard for you to understand? It this the governer's doing? At least try to offer peace or terms of surrender or something... you can't just kill them like this. You call them savages, but if you take this course of action then you are proving that you are the uncivilized ones!" Wolfgang didn't know where all this passion was coming from, but now he knew how he felt about the people of Flaming Spirit Hold. He almost wished he had held his tongue, but errased the doubt from his mind as soon as the words left his mouth. He was a cleric of the goddess first, and a member of the temple second.

[tigerusthegreat]

"These heretics will corrupt us all, as they are clearly doing to you. We have made attempts to live peacefully with them, and it always ends in a war. This time we will not wait for them, but will strike first and destroy them. My orders do not come from the governor, but from the White Council (the church's leadership). Return now, Wolfgang."

The dream fades and your sleep is uninterrupted for the rest of the night.

[Volos]

Wolfgang sleeps for the rest of the night without much trouble. His mind wishes to make sense of all that he has been told, but the depths of his sleep kept him from worrying about such things. He awoke without fright or trouble, rising slowly and allowing his body to awaken fully. He washed his face, put on his clothing, and sought out Zril with some urgency.

[tigerusthegreat]

You find Zril and Aggrig outside with a crowd gathered around them. They seem to be fighting. Swords flash in the firelight, and you hear cheers and groans as they fight.

[Volos]

Wolfgang tries to approach Aggrig, or Zril if that is his only choice. "We must speak, in private. Now." He refuses to talk infront of anyone else, and does not move until they agree to come with him to speak.

[tigerusthegreat]

After the fight the two men shake hands. Aggrig walks off with you.

"What troubles you?"

[Volos]

Wolfgang takes a slow and deep breath before answering, the tension in his body loosening only slightly in doing so. "...I had a dream last night. It seems it happens almost every time I close my eyes. I saw a woman who claims to be the rabbit to the Holy Flame's fox? She was with child in a cave with wall carvings and a fire in the middle. This is your oracle, yes? She spoke to me. I have to choose between your people and those of the Empire... for now comes war. I was contacted by a high ranking priest of my order, I am supposed to return to the main settlement on this island, New Regus. They are going to attempt to strike while you are unaware, destroy your people before you can have a chance to defend yourselves. I begged him to consider peace, but he wouldn't listen. Either he doesn't care or he is just a bloodthirsty as the rest of the corrupted souls within the Empire." Tears were already running down Wolfgang's face partway through what he was telling Aggrig, showing how much he was hurt by what he had come to learn in this past night.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Do not worry about us, we have already gathered our strength for war. There is but one thing to do, and I will do that soon. Go where your heart wills, Wolfgang of the Blessed Moon. If you return to your people I will hold no grudg against you."

[Volos]

"I want to join your people. I cannot abide by what the Empire has done or is planning to do. While I still have faith in my goddess, I do not have any trust in the people that claim to be her followers. I would stop the war if I could, but that seems to be a fool's hope."

[tigerusthegreat]

"Then I welcome you as one of us, brother. I would celebrate you joining us, but I know it is with a heavy heart you do so. Also I have other tasks.""

He walks from you and shouts above the crowd. He is challenging Urgon to come forward and prove his honor, claiming he is a sneak and a liar...a traitor and honorless. There are many gasps among the crowd. Urgon appears, and calls for his shield and sword. The two stare down at each other, ringed by their people.

[Volos]

Wolfgang doesn't want to miss a moment of this. Once he notices that Aggrig is addressing the people, he casts the magic that will aid him in seeking understanding within the words he does not yet know. He joins the circle of people, wanting to see what will happen as accused murderer and son of the slain meet.

[tigerusthegreat]

"Your boasts and threats are feeble, young one. Your ambitions are beyond the stroke of your sword. This is why I have refused to allow your marriage to the Priestess, Lilen."

"You have refused it because I have chosen not to remain silent. You will tell me what the Oracle said to you before I kill you, and you will admit to all those gathered here that you are a murderer."

The two approach each other slowly. Urgon seems content to dodge and avoid Aggrig. The younger man is very rapid with his attacks, and he strikes with fury. The two break apart, both visibly tired. Neither appears wounded.

"Is this all the strength and honor you have, Aggrig? You are not fit to be a Chieftain."

"Whether I am or not, it is not in my hands, but the desires of the Flame. Now will you fight honorably, or like the coward you are?"

Urgon takes to the offensive, but Aggrig is hardly on the defensive. The Priest's blade comes down hard, landing a solid hit on Aggrig's shield. The hide of Orgristin turns the blade easily, and Aggrig flings it at Urgon, pushing him back bodily with the shield. Urgon is put off his balance, wheeling back, and landing hard on one knee. He brings his shield up just in time to fend off Aggrig's first and second blows. Urgon throws a fistful of dirt at Aggrig's face, forcing the young warrior to back off or be blinded, a move that causes murmurs from the crowd. Urgon charges forward again, and one after another Aggrig fends off the blows with his mighty shield. Urgon's last blow is ambitious, and he overextends himself. Aggrig capitalizes on the stroke, landing another blow that Urgon barely intercepts. The young man's sword comes down a final time, this time shredding through Urgon's shield and cutting deep into the Priest's arm. Urgon collapses in a bloody heap, screaming in agony. Aggrig leans over him, and Urgon apparently says something to him. The Priest's arm reaches for the dropped blade, but Aggrig kicks it away from him.

"Bandage this traitor's arm, and give him a days worth of food and water. Should he show his face here again, kill him. He is an outcast to us. Chiefs of our brother tribes, I invite you again into the Flaming Spirit Hold. Though our Chief has changed, our feelings towards you have not, and the matter of War must still be discussed."

Aggrig approaches you again, and you see the battle has not been without wound, merely neither warrior reacting much to them. There are many smaller nicks that bleed slightly on the new chieftain, showing where Urgon's blade came closer than it should have.

"I had been hoping it would not come to this, that Urgon would see some sense and lead like he should have. It is clear the Flame needs me to be a Chief, and so I am. When the Council is over I will speak with you about your dreams. I do have something for you to consider. In our tongue, the words for Flame's Rest resembles closely the word for rabbit, and Flame's Rise the word for fox. These are two of our sacred places, the first being the place where the Oracle resides. The latter holds a flame imperishable, and is lost to use, in lands held the Empire."

[Volos]

Wolfgang watches the fight between the honorable Aggrig and the coward Urgon. He is invested in the battle, gasping each time that Aggrig is struck a close to serious blow. It took a great deal of strength not to cry foul as the coward tosses dirt in Aggrig's face. As the fight closes and Aggrig spares the man's life, Wolfgang is left confused and angry. This man should be dead... he doesn't deserve to live after what he has done. Wolfgang greets his new brother by grasping the man's forarm and smiling, or smiling as much as he can after such a dramatic moment. "I will take these words to heart brother Aggrig. Please, I do not wish to delay your meeting. I will await you in my chambers, I have much to concider. Even though I have decided to become one of you, I understand if by custom I should not attend this meeting. You are a good man, your words will be well met."

[tigerusthegreat]

After many long hours, Aggrigg meets with you. He seems to have a heavy burden on his shoulders, though he does not share it with you.

"You have made a choice that I hope you do not regret. Speak your mind and tell me what troubles you lately. It seems that many forces are trying to influence you, ripping your mind apart in the process."

[Volos]

"Thank you for seeing me, brother. First it was the fox in my dreams, but when I went to the seer and last night it was the rabbit. The Oracle spoke to me in my dreams, but was interrupted by a high ranking Priest of the Empire. He told me to return to be assigned to somewhere else. I thought I knew the Empire, but their actions have proven savage. An irony I cannot fully appreciate, that they call your people savages while they are the ones who are so uncivilized. I do not regret my decision, but do not know what to do now. I still love my goddess but at the same time I care for your people. I am conflicted."

[tigerusthegreat]

"I understand tha you are conflicted and confused. Yesterday you were a missionary trying to convert us to make it easier for your empire to crush us. Today you are at war with them, and a member of our tribe. It seems to me that your dreams hold the answer. It is said at Flame's Rise there are glyphs that tell of the history of the world from long before. They were not made by our people. Perhaps an answer lies there, but it is currently a fortress of the empire."

[Volos]

"I could go on my own and they would see me as a member of the Empire, but at the same time they might take me as a prisoner and torture me as has happened in my dreams. If these carvings are so old and of great importance, we can be sure that the empire holds them for a purpose. What that purpose is I cannot know. But it seemes they may have answers to the terrors that await me as my eyes rest each night. I will go, either alone or with any who wish to accompany me. I must first seek words with my goddess, to see if she has abaonded me. I am a holy man, surely you understand brother."

[tigerusthegreat]

"it is a prime target for our army, and where we will be striking soon. If you have patience, and suffer these dreams for a few days, we will have your answers."