[Numenera] Heir to the Hill Country IC

[Eulalios]

Inland from the Dreaming Sea, the grassy hills of Salahay rise eastward from forested ravines to bare brown mountain slopes with eternally snowy peaks. Farmsteads and pastures thickly cover the hills, while the mountains and the ravines mostly are wilderness. At the mouths of the ravines, where the river rapids calm to steady flow, there are towns where farmers and herders have braved the forest trails to gather and trade with merchants. Further down the rivers, at the barren shore of the Dreaming Sea, there are larger towns or small cities where the merchants gather to trade with foreigners from the south.


===
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3e/View_of_Arghandab_Valley.JPG/250px-View_of_Arghandab_Valley.JPG - the river plain at the foot of a ravine
http://www.orangesmile.com/extreme/img/main/tara-river-canyon_2.jpg - a ravine
http://www.alpinist.com/media/web18s/afghan-mountains-5.jpg - some mountains and plateau at top of hills
http://www.unchartedbackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/DSC_0803.jpg - small town bazaar
===

The cities are governed by the foreigners from the seagoing Saltyrrean Empire, who levy taxes on the merchants who trade there. The towns are gatherings of walled compounds, without formal laws, each town having a larger and more elaborate compound where a local strongman dwells. High in the hills stands the Castle Perilous, the ancient seat of the hill-kings of the Salahay, whose warriors claim tribute from the towns and the cities alike (though the cities have not paid tribute since the Empire came).

A year ago, in a dark winter night, the old king of Salahay died. Many rumors swirl around that event. What is known is that one of the king's grandsons gathered warriors and seized the crown, slaying or exiling all other putative heirs. One of the exiled heirs is a greatly embittered warrior named Yutt.


===
https://i0.wp.com/michaelvogeljr.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Mudhut-Village.jpg?resize=300%2C225&ssl=1
===
On a cool afternoon in the dry season, Yutt crouched for warmth above the goat dung that smoked on a small stone hearth in a small mud hut in a small village. Elbows on knees, he held his hairy open hands palms-down above the smoldering fire. He gazed narrow-eyed at Yendra and Ondraieti.

"We have been a full day in this vacant hut," the exiled prince said harshly to his two most loyal followers, "and aside from flatbread and raisins and cabbage, no tribute has been offered! This is intolerable!" His thick brown beard waggled as he spoke. Despite their familiarity with Yutt's temperament, both the varjellen jack and the human glaive were reminded how his crouched position belittled his immense stature - the man stood at least 2 meters tall, all muscle.
Roll to see whether you're intimidated (level 6, target 18 to not be)
"Go through the village, find the eldest leader, and invite them back here to share the remnants of their pitiable hospitality!" Yutt commanded.

[Anyr]

Personal image was a strange thing. Intellectually, Yendra knew she was a better fighter than Yutt. Were the two of them to duel, she'd almost certainly win. Nonetheless, Yutt had a talent for seeming strong. If strangers were asked to bet on the outcome of that duel, they'd be tricked out of their money. Yendra felt strangely compelled to obey this hulking idiot. Besides, she didn't have anything better to do right now. The Glaive bowed her head in a fair imitation of respect.

"...As you wish."

Rising from her seat, she left the hut. She'd do her duty as one of Yutt's two most loyal followers: His only followers. Once safely out of the esteemed lord's earshot, she gave a wry grin to the man beside her.

"His Supreme Highness grows ever surlier. It's only a matter of time before he attracts some entertaining enemies."

Resist Intimidation: [roll0]

By the way, is there an OOC thread?

[chadpants]

The varjellen nods to Yutt, maintaining a neutral expression on a face already challenging enough for humans to read. Softly it replies to Yendra. "Indeed. He might do well to stay in this hut out of sight of the self-proclaimed king. I have no doubt there will be plenty of eyes upon him."

Checking if Ondraeti is intimidated by Yutt: [roll0]

[Eulalios]

The warrior woman and the crafty varjellen wandered among the dozen huts of the village to the largest one that had a fine woolen tapestry as the door hanging. Although they had only paused for a single day in the nameless village, that was long enough to figure out which of the few dwellings housed the village elder.

The door hanging was tied to the side, indicating that the elder was receiving guests on this fine dry afternoon. A low murmur of conversation could be heard from inside the hut, and smoke drifted out through the doorway and the roof hole. Yendra recognized the smoke as igra, the intoxicating root of a mountain herb. Conversation might be meandering and indirect under its effects, but by custom she should take some for courtesy before addressing the elder.

link in my sig

[Anyr]

Yendra perked up when she saw the familiar smoke. She had little regard for stuffy old customs. This particular custom, however, involved getting high. Yendra had wiled away many an hour under the influence of various drugs. The greatest thrill came from the first sample of a new, exotic substance. But she could also appreciate the familiar classics. A bit of igra would be most welcome. Eyes already shining with anticipation, she went over the battle plan with Ondraieti.

"Do you want to take the lead here? This is more your battlefield than mine. I don't exactly have a good history of diplomacy with village elders."

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 10/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 0



Ondraieti narrowed its bulbous eyes at the idea of partaking in the igra. It liked to have its senses sharp so it could carefully craft words if need be. It decided to try taking a different tack in this particular situation.

"I'll be glad to take the lead," it says to its glaive companion, "but it could potentially start out a bit rougher than anticipated, so be prepared." With that, it steps through the opening of the hutt. Through the haze of smoke it makes out three occupants, the elder sitting near the back of the hut upon a seat of ornately carved wood that appears to have a strange glow to it. An individual stands to his left, either a partner or a second-in-command, and a younger lad sits off to the side of the hut's entrance playing with an oddity, a small fish that "swims" in a glass jar that is only filled with air.

"If you please," Ondraieti begins, "I do not wish to disrespect the elder by addressing them before taking igra, but it will not sit well with my varjellen constitution, as you may already be aware. If you would be so kind as to ask the elder if an exception can be made for me, although my partner would be more than happy to partake."

[Eulalios]

Indeed, the pungent smoke within the hut already was causing Ondraeiti's head crest to tingle and swell. Direct ingestion would have been problematic.

The elder and her companion appeared to ignore the varjellen. The young boy sitting cross-legged by the door looked up wide-eyed at it. The elder picked up the translucent igra pot by its looping handles and inhaled deeply from the smoking spout, then passed the pot to her companion, who bowed at the waist before turning and stepping over the fire to deliver the pot to Yendra. "Greetings. Breathe deeply and ponder clearly," he said as Yendra took her first slow drag from the hot spout. "Elder Ulayi welcomes you and she will hear you speak." Yendra felt the pale euphoria begin to seize her mind.

I will count the ingestion of igra as a social courtesy that grants Yendra an asset for interactions in the hut (as long as you try to be meandering and indirect in posted conversation). Ondraieti is at no penalty.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 10/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 0



The varjellen grimaces at the situation. "I think we need to rework our approach," Ondraieti says softly to Yendra. "Having not partaken in the igra I have no standing here. It is as if I'm not even in this hut with you. I would recommend you speak with the elder in this particular case."

[Anyr]

Yendra gratefully accepted the pot. She breathed its fumes deeply. A pleasant haze settled over her. Ondraieti was saying something. What was he saying? Oh, he wanted her to speak. That's fine. She was in a talkative mood.

"Greetings. I'm here because I want...well, 'want' is a strong word. I've been asked to come here, by a man you probably know. Large, belligerent, never satisfied? He's waiting in his hut. Thanks for the hut, by the way. I appreciate it; Even if others don't. Anyway, the esteemed Yutt wishes to invite you to his hut. Personally, I wouldn't blame you for refusing. He's probably just going to complain. But if you're in the mood to be harangued, an opportunity has arrived."

No sugar coating here. Just the facts.

[Eulalios]

Make a level 4 intellect defense roll to avoid babbling whatever's on his mind.
The elder creased her deeply tanned face so that all of the laughing wrinkles were accentuated, and giggled girlishly.

"Names," she said thoughtfully, "say so much. This is the village Ulayi, I am the elder of the village, I am named for the village, and the village she is named for me. My predecessor, he was Ulayi as well. The village has been here a long time. But names say so much. Yutt is a harsh name. And you say he is a harsh man as well, so appropriately named. I have heard the name Yutt before. A man came - three men came - on aneens, with swords and one with a blaster. They spoke with us about Yutt. Wanted all the information we had which was nothing at all. Now you say he is here in our guest hut, and now we have fed him as a guest. Now we cannot speak of him to anyone who would harm him. That is good for him and for you. But I will not go to the guest hut. I am too old to be annoyed by an ungrateful guest. He may stay or go and we will feed him while he stays. Oh - but it may be difficult not speak of him. Igra destroys discretion. Perhaps it would be better if I could say that I do not know where he has gone. In case anyone should ask about him later." She paused and drew a deep breath, smoke swirling around her in the dim light from the doorway; the smoldering goat dung fire gavve no light at all.

"So - what are your names?" she asked. "You and Yutt came into our village at night, we only knew you were here from the smoke that rose from the fire you made in the guest hut. It was a bit of a hassle to make extra food to serve you. And we don't even know your names."

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 10/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 11/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 0



Ondraieti's bulbous eyes narrow a bit from not having considered the effects of the second-hand smoke.

"Please pardon us for not disclosing our names," it begins. "I am called Ondraieti, which as you can tell, is a very lyrical name, one that glides easily on the tongue of human and varjellen alike. I would say perhaps even the tongues of lattimor, but I have only spoken to a lattimor once and did not make note of its tongue. The actual organ as opposed to the language, as I did pick up a few words of its language. Strange creatures, those.

"In any event, the name Ondraieti is the name given meaning 'of the fifth', as every fifth generation born to the house of Trarris receives this name. I think you'll find that you will delight in saying it, if I do say so myself.

"Now I greatly appreciate your acceptance of Yutt's invitation to share in his meal. I knew a person of your stature and wisdom would be filled with grace and aplomb. I anticipate a pleasant meeting will be had by all. Shall we proceed?" Ondraieti gestures toward the opening of the hut.

Applying Misdirect Blame ability to convince her that she had actually agreed to go, hoping the effect of the igra assists in confusing her.

[Eulalios]

Ulayi stood slowly, wrapping around her shoulders the sheepskin blanket that had been across her lap. "Let's not be all day about it, it's a beautiful day for a walk and a smoke and a nap," she says cheerfully. "Come, Second. Little one, play more with the fish. It's a pretty fish, far from the water and the sea. Every few years it dies and burns itself to ash and grows and swims again. Sometimes if you turn it upside down it makes the jar get hot."

Second (assuming that was his name) put down the igra pot on a small three legged table next to Ulayi's stool. In the dim light that came through the doorway of the hut, he looked confused. But he said nothing, just shrugged slightly and held out an elbow for Ulayi to hold as she shuffled toward the doorway and out into the afternoon sun and air. A cool cleansing breeze swept the smoke away from the doorway and the roof hole and brought clarity to Yendra and Ondraieti. There was no sign of Yutt. Hopefully he had stayed in the hut. A few villagers could be seen pulling weeds from the vegetable garden down hill from the village. Two others could be seen with a herd of yol on the green slope above the village.

Ulayi rolled her neck from side to side. Her old spine crackled as she did so. She walked with the careful, low steps of an old woman who did not see very well. It was slow going down to the guest hut, at the bottom of the village.

Inside the guest hut, Yutt was lying on his side, propped up on his right elbow. With his left hand he was slowly stroking the smooth translucent synth of his blaster.
Heavy weapon, short range. Depletes for 1d6 hours on a roll of 1 in d6.
"What took so long?" he asked, sitting up swiftly. "Elder," he added without the tone of respect that should accompany the word, "I am Yutt, the terrible. Thank you for the food and the hut. We are hungry and cold. Give us more fuel for the fire, and more to eat and drink. Then you will be glad to see us go on our way." Although the words were fairly polite, the tone and posture were menacing. "Second" noticed, and cringed.

Ulayi frowned. "Men came asking of you," she replied slowly. "Like you, they were dangerous men. There were three of them, on aneens. They moved on before you came, a few days before. Maybe they are ahead of you, maybe you will go in a different direction. It is not my business. I do not want to know where you will go. My people will bring you food and fuel for the evening. Tomorrow it would be good if you were not here. I will return to my hut now. If you want to speak more, come yourself or with your friends as well." She slowly backed out of the hut, leaving Yendra and Ondraieti with Yutt.

"That's no good," said Yutt. "Do either of you know this part of the hills? Should we go to the towns or to the city? I need more followers, and there are none to be had here. What do you counsel?"

[Anyr]

Yendra watched in honest admiration, as Ondraieti worked his verbal jujitsu. He somehow managed to invert the Elder's intentions, without her even realising it. This truly was his battlefield. He and Yendra were stronger together than alone. Each compensated for the other's weaknesses.

The Glaive took a last, long drag of Igra before rising. She helped slowly (far too slowly) escort Ulayi across the village. The poor elder clearly suffered from a bad back. Yendra held little love for authority figures. But she had no desire to see an old woman suffer for a thankless task. Ulayi wouldn't exactly receive a warm welcome for her trouble.

The meeting actually went better than expected. Yutt was, of course, rude and brusk. But his demands were only somewhat unreasonable. And he managed to refrain from shooting anyone, too! Maybe there was hope for him yet. Soon enough, the elder and her second departed. Yendra and Ondraieti were left alone with their...liege? No, that didn't sound right. Well, whatever he was, he wanted the duo's advice.

"I favour the city. It'd be easier to evade hunters there than in a tiny village. Plus, there's a lot more potential recruits."

It'd also be much more fun for Yendra. She kept that last reason to herself.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 10/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 0



Ondraieti was amused that Yutt simply thought acquiring followers was like picking out guatfruit or netting fish. One man with a blaster was useless against 10 people with any matter of weapons. If he wanted to foster this illusion who was Ondraieti to deter him? It would ride the man's delusion a bit longer.

"I concur with Yendra. There are more people and opportunities in the city. That will offer you a better selection of potential followers." Besides, the varjellen was comfortable with larger populations, more potential for it to utilize its true gifts.

[Eulalios]

Yutt grimaced at the advice. It might have been meant as a smile but that was not how it appeared. "I have not ever been to the city," he said. "But you have, Ondraieti. We will need you to lead us down the river Haznunnem, through the tangled jungle of the ravine, across the barren dusty plain that my uncle talked about, and into the city of ... what's it called? There maybe we will find fierce people, hungry for the tribute of the hills, who can help me regain my crown and castle. We leave in the morning." He stared gloomily or angrily or dismissively at the glowing remains of the fire. "Where is the fuel we were promised?"

The boy who had been playing with the fish in the jar ducked under the low lintel of the doorway, wordlessly and rudely pushing aside the rough woolen door hanging. He carried a woven grass basket half-filled with dried lumps of goat dung. This he put down by the wall of the hut, between the yol-skin sleeping mats. He ducked his head toward Yutt, and quickly and silently left.

Yutt began to speak again. It was the same dreamy and ferocious litany of power and revenge that Yendra and Ondraieti had already heard a dozen dozen times. If this man ever acquired a sufficient band of followers, he intended to be a potent force in the brutal politics of Salahay.

After a while, Yutt withdrew into a morose silence. His companions were familiar with his moods and knew he was not to be disturbed while he pondered the injustice of his current situation.

Near sunset, the same silent boy delivered a wooden platter of flat bread, cabbage, and spicy boiled beans. He took away the dirty platter from the corner of the hut, which the three people had been vaguely picking over for the scraps of breakfast.


===

In the coolest part of the night, just before dawn, Yendra awakened. She thought she heard the sound of footsteps just outside the hut. Two or three sets of footsteps, maybe.

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 10/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 1

Yendra half listened to Yutt's ranting. When first they'd met, she'd quite enjoyed his speeches. Their passion resonated with her own inner fire. But by now, the routine had gotten old. Yutt really needed some new material; Or a new audience. Once the great orator finally fell silent, Yendra was left to her own devices. She spent some time wandering the village, and its surroundings. Then she returned to eat dinner. The simple meal got quickly and messily devoured. It tasted just like the meals back in her home village. Then, she settled down for the night.

Before dawn, a sound roused Yendra from her slumber. Good timing, actually. She'd been having that nightmare with the endless sea again. A break from that was welcome. Her ears pricked up. Footsteps? She reached for the enormous sword beside her. Then she nudged Ondraieti awake. Not Yutt, though. The people outside might not be enemies. She didn't want that idiot to accidentally shoot some wandering children. When her companion woke, Yendra put a finger to her lips, and pointed towards the entrance. Her ears continued to listen for more tell tale noises.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 10/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 0



The varjellen opens its eyes and looks at Yendra quizzically. It acknowledges her gesture of silence, returning a nod. Ondraieti was a talker, not a fighter, and decided to stand back behind the strong woman as protection, but placed a hand on its rapier in the event that it would need it. It could hold its own if need be in the event there was trouble that found them.

[Eulalios]

Yendra in her wanderings found fourteen huts, all ten to twenty feet wide with the same general square shape and with square thatched roofs. Six of the huts had yol sheds near them. She counted about forty adults or near adults working in the vegetable garden and the grain fields, and about twenty smaller people running around and playing. All of the people looked at her with some curiosity, but didn't engage her in conversation. This was the sort of interaction that she expected from villagers encountering a stranger. It would have been her responsibility to introduce herself and start a conversation, as she had with the elder Ulayi.

Meanwhile, Ondraieti rested in the hut with Yutt, nibbling at the scraps of breakfast.

===

In the near dawn, Yendra and Ondraieti heard smaller noises in addition to the footsteps: whispering, and giggles. Suddenly, the bottom of the door hanging was pulled up and a creature about two feet in length was tossed into the hut. It was a dark, furry cavot, which immediately began squeaking and running around the hut, jumping repeatedly over the small fire pit. The fire had burnt out during the night and the hut was cool. Outside, there were shrills of childish laughter and patters of feet retreating at a run.

Yutt awoke, ...

Yutt level 4 warrior, level 6 for intimidation and nastiness, health 18/18
I'd be interested in seeing one of you narrate Yutt's response, as I am planning to make him a party NPC as soon as we get somewhere that would be appropriate (like a town or other place with more non-party NPCs for you and him to interact - or even in the jungle of a ravine).

[Anyr]

It really was just kids! All the tension drained from Yendra. There'd be no assassins this morn. At least, not yet. Her eyes followed the careening furry blur. How wonderfully nostalgic. This is just how kids should behave! They were supposed to dance and sing and climb and run, and throw weird creatures into the huts of adults. Yendra rejoiced in being part of the great generational cycle.

Others were decidedly less amused. A confused, angry roar erupted from behind Yendra. She turned to see the room's third occupant bolting upright. He swatted at the cavot as it sped past him.

"WHO DARES?! Come out and face me! I'll defeat every one of you and your vermin minions, no matter how numerous!"

[Eulalios]

Yutt's heavy and accurate hand struck the cavot, flinging it through the air to strike the hard mud and stone wall of the hut with a crunching thump. The small animal slid down the wall to lie in a still soft heap on the dirt floor.

Yutt grunted satisfaction, and stood, stooping slightly under the roof of the hut. He held his blaster in his left hand and his long sword hung from the wide belt of his caftan. "The omens are good," he said with a sneer, scooping up the cavot. He stepped to the doorway, swept aside the hanging with the back of the hand that held the blaster, and hurled the animal's corpse underhand away from the hut. Turning slightly toward Yendra and Ondraieti, he added, "We go now. Ondraieti, you lead."

The general path is downhill toward the ravine that is a few hours away. Narrate the generalities and I'll offer an intrusion as you go. Or choose some other path than what I'm signposting, I'll be happy either way.

Also, I'm wondering whether the cavot was a pet. I'll leave that to your discretion to narrate.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti nods and beckons for them to head for the path down the hill toward the ravine.

The varjellen glances at Yendra and ever so slightly twitches its crest forward, looking toward the path then back to Yendra, hoping she picks up on its hint for her to lead. It made more sense to have the glaive take point than the jack.

The frequency of the huts decrease then all but disappear as the land gives way to the forested slope of the hill upon which the village sits. It buttons its jerkin all the way up as the morning air still has a bit of a chill. The breeze carries tiny star-shaped yellow floating pods with their minute kelta trees that will settle and root to one day grow their slender trunks but broad canopy tops dozens of meters wide. A raptor can be seen snatching a cavot from a limb of a tree a few meters away. Ondraieti wonders if Yutt's superstitions will take this as an omen as well.

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 10/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 1

Yendra set out from the village in high spirits. Places like this could be nice to visit. She just didn't want to live there. Her wanderlust kept spurring her onward. She hummed a merry tune as she descended the hill. The brisk morning air was so invigorating! Per Ondraieti's subtle request, she lead the way, while trying to seem as if she wasn't. Her companion would still be responsible for navigating. But if some hostile hoodlum decided to attack, Yendra would be ready for them. And if none did, well, she'd have to find some other way to amuse herself.

[Eulalios]

Ondraieti, Yendra, and Yutt continued down the hillside amid patches of tall leafy grass, short wiry grass, bare dirt, and gravel. After a few hours the sun had nearly reached zenith and they had arrived at a place where a stream about twenty feet across splashed down natural stone steps at the head of a steep-sided ravine filled with jungle-y trees and vines. The most direct way down into the ravine would be to follow the course of the stream down the steps, which looked a bit slippery. Another option was to clamber sideways and slightly downward along the sloping side of the ravine, cutting through the undergrowth as they went.

Yutt looked uncertain. He pulled his longsword from its scabbard and took a few thoughtful swings at the nearest bush, shearing off a few branches from which translucent green sap spurted out. The bush thrashed its remaining branches in a ripple receding from the severed branches and then returning to lash out at Yutt, who stepped hastily away. The spurting sap dwindled to dripping droplets. "We should follow the stream," said Yutt forcefully. "Ondraieti, do you disagree?"

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 10/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 0



Ondraieti peered at the remaining sap and the aggressive vines. It looks down the slippery steps then back at the bush.

"I do not disagree," it replies, quickly preventing itself from addressing Yutt by first name. The brute was in a permanently testy state and responded hastily to anything he considered an affront to the respect he felt he was due. Had it worsened since his right to the throne was usurped, or was he always this nasty? The varjellen would have certainly parted ways with the man awhile ago if it weren't for the unjust way he was denied what was rightfully his. It needed to see this wrong righted.

"I don't know how harmful the vines can be, and I feel we may fare better with our own balance than against this harsh vegetation. Let's follow the stream. You are wise to suggest this," Ondraieti says without coming across obsequious.

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 10/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 2

"Fine by me."

Fighting through those bushes wasn't a fun prospect. Yendra would take her chances with the stream. She began stepping, hopping and jumping down the pathway, somewhat recklessly. Yendra had confidence in her dexterity. Besides, falling was part of life. Success and failure could both be valuable lessons.

[Eulalios]

The climb down the side of the waterfall was challenging in places: slick rocks, steep drops, and so on.
If you accept, please make a Speed based roll level 3, and narrate success or failure including damage equal to the amount by which you missed the roll, if any
About a quarter mile and a few hundred feet down, the waterfall ended at a deep calm pool with banks of sand and gravel. There were five mounds of sand and gravel near the waterline around the pool. The mounds were about ten feet across and about four feet high. A shallow stream rippled down a gentle slope at the foot of the pool, a hundred feet from the cliff.

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 8/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 2

Yendra danced nimbly past the various obstacles. Her boots kept their balance on each new surface. Sometimes, she'd deliberately plummet past several levels, to land on a ledge below. Yendra loved finding shortcuts, and other ways to beat her previous records.

I'll save the rest of my narration until after Ondraieti's roll (if it makes one).

[chadpants]

Ondraieti takes a deep breath and reflects back on the times it practiced balancing on logs that would flow through the canals of Seshar. It deftly navigates the slippery rocks and the force of the falling water to meet up with Yendra below.

[Eulalios]

Yutt scrambled rapidly down the wet stone surfaces, trying to keep up with Yendra and not quite succeeding.

About ten minutes after beginning their descent, the three people stood at the shoreline of the pool between two of the big sand piles. From where they stood, they could see at the top of each little hill a hole about fifteen inches across. Ripples from the part of the pool that churned right at the foot of the steps did not quite reach the calm waters at the bases of the sand heaps.

"What are these?" Yutt wondered.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 10/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 1



Ondraieti narrows its bulbous eyes at the sand heaps. "I don't trust they're not homes for some strange creature that would just as soon drag us beneath the water to consume us. Let's see if we can navigate our way around them and not disturb them. We may have to wade through the pool, but we should move smoothly so as not to create waves or ripples or splashes. Can't be too cautious."

Of course, I'll give my other XP to Yendra for heading down the waterfall first.

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 8/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 3

Yendra had to disagree with her comrade's assessment.

"You definitely can be too cautious. Caution can eat away your soul, if you let it. But if the mounds worry you that much, I suppose I can tread carefully this time."

The talk of strange carnivorous creatures only excited her curiosity. Left alone, she'd probably have stomped boldly through the area. But she wasn't alone. Being part of a group came with certain concessions. You sometimes had to defer to the 'avoiding horrible monsters' special interest group. With a sigh, Yendra began carefully wading through the pool.

[Eulalios]

Near the mounds on the shoreline, the bottom of the pool was shallow and fairly flat although very gravelly and therefore treacherous going. Yendra, Onradieti, and Yutt sloshed carefully through the knee deep water with few ripples until they reached the end of the pool. There was a ridge of stone that crossed the pool. Water trickled out over the smooth linear lip of the ridge and formed a small stream that burbled away down a gentle slope of gravel and grass. In addition, there was a strong suction toward the gravel at the bottom of the pool. The current dragged at their feet.

At the near end of the stone ridge where the water ran out of the pool, just above the strongest downward suction, stood a stone post about six inches thick and three feet tall. Across the slanted top of the post were nine bumps arranged in a square grid. It appeared that the post had been carved to form the bumps. Each bump was etched with a time-blurred symbol. The symbols had no obvious meaning.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 10/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 1




Ondraieti looks at the strong suction point with a bit of concern. It then looks at the post and attempts to study the carved bumps. When it determines the symbols indiscernible it looks down the grassy gravelly slope.

"I'm not sure there's any purpose to this stone column. Shall we proceed down the slope?"

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 8/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 3

Yendra regarded the water feature with mild curiosity. She couldn't really make sense of it. In the end, she just kept walking.

"Yes, lets. Whatever purpose it once had, it doesn't seem to be needed any more."

[Eulalios]

With their feet wet and chafing in any footwear they wore, Yendra and Ondraieti led Yutt down the slope alongside the shallow rippling stream. Near the bottom, where the ground flattened, a second stream gushed from a large patch of gravel and joined the first. The combined streams were two or three feet deep and the heroes were walking along the right bank on a swath of dirt and gravel bordered by vines similar to those they had found at the to of the ravine. As they proceeded downward along the stream, the vines thinned and were replaced by waist high, large leafed ferns. Overhead, the branches of the trees writhed in a wind that did not reach the floor of the ravine. Occasionally, leaves would flutter down from the branches, then swirl back up.

[Anyr]

Yendra continued to stroll/slosh along the stream. So far, this had been an uneventful trip. She had mixed feelings about that. Picturesque scenery could only placate her for so long. She was secretly rooting for something to ambush her. Perhaps it would be a literal bush. The vegetation around here shouldn't be taken lightly. Yendra kept a close eye on those ferns, just in case.

[Eulalios]

As they proceeded down the side of the stream, in theshade of the tall fern like trees, leaves continued to flutter and swoop around them. After a while they came to a place where there were no trees and the stream bank and bed were composed of bare whitegrey porous rock. There something augmented the flow of the stream by a factor of three or more. The ground continuously vibrated under their feet at a high frequency, making their teeth buzz in their heads. A stone post protruded from the gently sloping rock, seemingly of one piece with the stream bank. The slant top of the post had nine bumps arranged in a grid. The bumps were marked with symbols that Yendra did not recognize. Ondraieti recognized one, it was the varjellen ideogram for "side street". The others were unknown to it.

A few dead leaves, pale green, drifted down the stream.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 10/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 1




Ondraieti studied the post and nodded. "I recognize one of these symbols. 'Side Street'. This post is fashioned similarly to the one at the top of this stretch. I don't recall seeing this symbol on the other post, though I didn't look all that closely, admittedly.

"It would be nice to take a quicker path if there is indeed a side street to expose. Perhaps it requires a person to stand at each end? I might suggest having one of us stand here, the other going back to the other post, and we both touch the corresponding symbols on each post. What say you, Yendra?"

[Eulalios]

Yendra glanced up the slope, back along the half mile they had covered in the past ten minutes. She could barely see the tiny distant post that Ondraieti spoke of.

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 8/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 3

Yendra scratched her head. She glanced doubtfully at Ondraieti.

"I...suppose? But that seems like a really stupid design. The controls have to be operated by two people standing half a mile apart? I don't understand why anyone would build it that way.

Still, there's a lot I don't understand. And you're generally smarter than me. So if you want me to walk back and push buttons, I'll do it."

[chadpants]

Ondraieti thinks for a moment, then holds up a hand.

"Wait... before you trek back up there, let's see what happens if I..."

And the varjellen touches the symbol for "side street" on the post.

[Eulalios]

Momentarily, nothing happened after the varjellen pushed down upon the apparently immovable button.

Then, instead of merely vibrating, the ground shuddered and jolted under their feet. A rumbling noise floated to them from upstream. Turning to look, they saw a white brown something rushing toward them along the stream, a growing churning wall of water and gravel descending from the pond. They noticed vaguely that the rock beneath them had stopped its buzzing vibration.
each take 1xp + 1xp for each other
With only a few seconds to act, they each rushed to a decision. Yutt sprinted at right angles from the stream bed, up a slight rise into the underbrush. ...

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 10/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4



Ondraieti, surprised by whatever was swiftly moving toward them, leaps out of the way opposite to where the stream runs, pushing off its feet to get as much air as possible, hoping to escape the path of whatever's coming their way.

Evading the rushing brown white something: [roll0]

Oy vey... GM, you had to have a conversation about intrusions... XD

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 8/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 3

"Whoa!"

Peace was so fragile. It could literally vanish at the touch of a button. Like Ondraieti, Yendra leapt away from the approaching wall of water. Unlike Ondraieti, she did so with a huge grin on her face. Now this was more like it!

Yendra leaps/runs towards the bank.

Evasion {Two steps easier, from trained skills and effort}: [roll0]

[Eulalios]

Yendra easily and gracefully made it to the higher ground. As she tried to avoid the gently writhing vines, she heard a thrashing noise and angry exclamations from further into the jungle. It was not hard to discern a trail of bent, broken, and severed vines leading from near where she stood, toward the noise.

Ondraieti was not fortunate. As it leapt, its foot slipped on a wet patch and it sprawled belly-down on the rock, bruising its chest cage. Scrambling to get up, the varjellen glanced to its right and glimpsed a four foot high wave of gravel and water running rapidly toward it. Then it was overwhelmed, tumbled, thrown, slammed down against the rock, and released breathless to lie on its back staring up at a leafy green canopy, feeling the gentle suction of receding water tugging at the gravel under it.

Rolling its head left and right, the varjellen perceived that it had rapidly traveled an unknown distance down the streambed and had become separated from its companions.

Ondraieti suffers 2 Might damage.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4



Ondraieti grumbles as it slowly gets to its feet, flicking gravel off of itself. It was now officially lost. The varjellen sighs, does its best to get its bearings, then calls out as loud as it can.

"Yutt! Yendra! Can you hear my voice?"

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 6/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 3

Yendra rejoiced in her victory. Unfortunately, nobody else was around to celebrate with her. Her teammates had been swept off on their own adventures. Hey, no fair! Yendra wanted to be in dire peril too! She heard frustrated cries in the distance. After some hesitation, she headed towards Yutt's voice. He was the one most likely to need help.

"OVER HERE!"

Her sword sliced at any vines which attacked. But she tried not to disturb any others. No sense in picking a fight with the whole forest. At least, not yet.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4



Ondraieti faintly hears Yendra calling in the distance. It grumbles and begins trudging through the brush, choosing to trace a direct path to her, despite what brush and vegetation it has to go through to make its way back to her.

[Eulalios]

At first, near the edge of the streambed, it wasn't hard for Yendra to follow the rough path of broken branches. But a few yards further in, as the floor of the ravine got steeper and rockier, the bushes and vines began to writhe together around her. The air was still and warm and moist. Peering ahead, she caught sight of Yutt. He stood in a cleared circle about eight feet across, and about fifty feet ahead of her, thrashing around him with his heavy blade, cutting back branches and vines that writhed toward him along the ground and through the air. Seeing her, he said: "Quick! Cut a path toward me as I cut back through to the streambed. The flood must have passed by now?" His usual intimidating manner was abandoned for the moment and he spoke calmly, without the arrogant air of command to which Yendra had become accustomed.
The writhing vines are a level 3 creature that have infinite health and inflict 1 damage. Roll for attacks and defenses and narrate the results - successful attack moves the character ten feet in a chosen direction.

= = =
Ondraieti plunged into and through the chest high vines and bushes that rose directly between it and the distant shouting. Immediately, the vines began to writhe and twist as if they were attempting to ensnare it.
The writhing vines are a level 3 creature that have infinite health and inflict 1 damage. Roll for attacks and defenses and narrate the results - successful attack moves the character ten feet in a chosen direction.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4



The varjellen grumbles and wields its rapier, attempting to slash away the vines that are curling and wrapping themselves around its limbs. The vines twist around the arm that attempts to swing the rapier, inhibiting its ability to cut through them. Ondraieti is at least able to avoid taking a slashing from the vines.

Attempting to cut through the vines: [roll0]

[Anyr]

"Right away, your supreme chiefliness!"

Yendra enthusiastically drew her greatsword. Here was a chance for some heroic rescuing. The enormous weapon sliced through the jungle in a wide arc. Yendra pressed forward through the gaps it created. Whose limits were greater: The vines, or Yendra's burning spirit? Probably the vines, to be honest. But Yendra didn't actually need to beat them. She just had to delay them for a bit.

[Eulalios]

After much slashing and hacking at foliage, Yendra and Yutt and Ondraieti all emerged from the greenery and rejoined along the bank of the stream, which had subsided back to its usual burbling passage.

They followed the stream uneventfully down the ravine for the remains of the day, eventually coming out from under the jungle canopy to a place where the greenery faded abruptly to scrubby grass. They were at the top of a steep slope, and at the bottom the stream ran into another pond, at the side of which stood a town of several dozen buildings, maybe as many as a hundred. The buildings were made of faded brown mud bricks with brown tiled roofs or yellow brown thatched roofs, and differ from those of the previous village only in their size - most were at least twenty feet across, and many were two stories tall, and nearly all had walled courtyards to form little isolated compounds. The town itself had no wall. On a small hill near the middle of the town, right by the pond, stood a significantly larger building with a taller wall. The building and the wall were painted white and its roof tiles were red. Yutt grunted and pointed to it. He was tired from walking and apparently felt that his followers should understand and verbalize his wishes.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4



Ondraieti nods to Yutt and glances at Yendra. "Alright, let's see who's there to visit with," the varjellen says, and wanders over to the building. It circumnavigates the walls looking for a gate or some kind of entrance into the area.

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 6/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 3

Yendra swept her gaze across the vista. This town looked much more promising than the last. So many people to meet, talk with, and possibly punch! She enthusiastically followed Ondraieti down the slope. Adventure ho!

[Eulalios]

It was nearing sunset as the adventurers reached the first buildings of the town. They found a few naked people wandering through the streets between the walled compounds. The people carried on their heads large wet jars, probably containing water taken from the pond. Evidently it was near dinner time - smoke emerged from many of the building roofs, and a smell of cooking onions and cabbage and spices filled the air.

Among the walled compounds stood numerous synth posts, each a bit taller than the varjellen and each topped by a translucent bubble. Each bubbled contained a slowly swirling gray cloud. A few people lingered near one of those posts, their water jars resting on their hips or placed on the ground. Those people looked worried and their speech was anxious: "... has gone out ...", "Never before!"; "... when darkness ..."; "Ask Epps!" The last was spoken by a tall, angularly thin woman who gestured fiercely toward the big white-walled compound on the hill. The other people nodded. Then they noticed Yutt, Yendra, and Ondraieti. Immediately they fell silent and turned toward the adventurers, their faces displaying a mixture of curiosity, hostility, and fright.

"Who are you?" asked the angular woman. Her hip bones and collar bones jutted sharply under her taut skin; her wiry muscles bulged and relaxed as she moved while she spoke. She approached the adventurers, leaving her water jar on the ground. She was unarmed and naked. The other six people from her group stood silently watching.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4




Somewhat freshly emboldened by the naked people and the smell of cooked food, Yutt gathers the remaining vestiges of his energy to stand taller and expand his chest.

"I am Yutt, son of Mratt, hill-king of the Salahay. I am here to receive a long overdue tribute and-"

Ondraieti subtly raises a hand at Yutt, a gesture that gently asks him to let it handle the interactions. Taking the cue but not to be diminished, Yutt declares, "My varjellen will speak of my demands!"

Ondraieti masks its sigh as best it can, and turns to the woman who met them with her inquiry. "I am Ondraieti, the one who speaks on behalf of Yutt, and this is Yendra, his personal guard. We have traveled a ways to discuss the situation of the Empire. Circumstances are currently not optimal for any of us, I'm sure your town included. If there is food to share with us to help us spring back from a trying journey, perhaps we could repay your kindness by helping you in whatever way is needed."

The varjellen points at the bubble atop the synth column. "I couldn't help but overhear you are having issues with these numenera devices? Perhaps we could be of assistance in getting them to once again work properly? Or will we need to speak with... Epps, is it?" it says while pointing to the compound on the hill.

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 10/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 3

Yendra's eyes roamed unabashedly across the naked citizens. Since they apparently lacked modesty, she doubted they'd mind. Yendra herself wasn't exactly a strait-laced prude. She just preferred the comforting protection of armour. The Glaive gave a friendly wave as Ondraieti introduced her. From the sounds of it, the local problems would be more his specialty than hers.

[Eulalios]

"I am Oseltra," said the bony woman. "Epps is our big man. He generally likes to provide the solutions to problems, even if anyone else ends up working out the details for him. I don't know what he will say about your tribute but I'm sure if anything needs to be paid we will end up doing so." She grimaced bitterly. "That's how it is here."

"Anyway," she continued, "the glow balloons stopped working earlier today when it was a little cloudy.
We don't know if that caused the problem, but even after the clouds passed by they stayed dim. Then we thought they would just start working again. But they haven't. Now nightfall is coming and without the balloons to light the streets we are worried about what might prowl into the streets and scratch at our gates. We won't be leaving the compounds open tonight!"

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4




Ondraieti peers at what Oseltra referred to as the glow balloon. "Hm. Well, perhaps we need to speak with your big man. Sometimes a big man in a village has a protocol or form of etiquette expected from those wishing an audience. Do Epps have any such protocol we should be aware of?"

[Anyr]

Yendra Might 14/14/1 Speed 10/10/1 Intellect 10/10/0 XPs 3

The talk of prowlers got Yendra's attention. An eager grin spread across her face. This sounded like an opportunity to fight for a good cause. Yendra didn't necessarily need a good reason to fight. But it was nice to have one.

"If you need some extra defence, I might be able to oblige."

[Eulalios]

Oseltra blinked slowly at Yendra. "If you want to wander around the streets after dark, without the light of the balloons, you're welcome to do so. I will be in my compound with the gate shut."

Turning to Ondraieti, she added "Epps likes to be begged. We don't get many visitors here, but he and his household might be more likely to regard you as equals if you keep on your clothes. Generally, they're bullies. Speaking of visitors, a young woman came here a week or so ago, from out of the hills. Do you know her? Name is Veil. She went right up to the Big House like you're planning. Since then we've seen her when we've gone up in there for errands. She's kept her clothing, so Epps must be impressed by something about her.

"If that's all I can tell you, I need to get home. I've wasted time staring at this glow balloon and talking about it, and my family needs the water for dinner soon."

Behind Oseltra, the other people who were gathered around the dimmed glow balloon had hefted up their water jars and were on their way to various compounds. Through the open gate of a nearby compound, Yendra glimpsed a faded yellow dirt courtyard with a few small palm trees and patches of wiry blue-green grass. A pair of naked children were playing tag around two of the palm trees. One of the men carrying a water jar stepped through the gate and pushed it closed behind him with his heel. Faintly, Ondraieti heard his voice: "Clean up for dinner now, I'll pour the water in the bowl."

Yutt scowled. "I don't beg!" he said firmly. "Ondraieti, you may speak for me to Epps. Remember that we are not his to boss."

There was a clear path to follow among the compounds to the wide gate of the Big House on the low hill by the pond.

[Anyr]

"Wait, the nudity is mandatory? I thought you just enjoyed it!"

Yendra's voice dripped with resentment. She really disliked people who abused their power over others. Structure and authority were all very well when they served the common good. But once leaders became tyrants, they deserved to be 'corrected'. Yutt himself was dangerously close to this path. And if he strayed too far, Yendra would indeed correct him.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti nods to Yutt to acknowledge his words. "I will use discretion, doing my best to not offend the man while not being obsequious in the process."

The varjellen leads the way up the path to the gate and raps on it loudly.

[Eulalios]

After a few moments, a scaly lizard-headed humanoid dressed in a green yol-wool caftan approached from the inside of the seven-foot high gate and pulled it open. "Come in," it wheezed sibilantly. Ondraieti noticed that it had numerous shallow pits across its face between its nostrils and its bulging forehead.

They cautiously followed the lizard-thing through the gate.

Here is where you get a chance to narrate what your future companions see inside the compound of the Big House. I will supplement with anything I think is interesting.

[spinningdice]

The inside of the compound is little different to the outside, apart from the occupants having more clothing. Veil (who Yutt used to know as Lux) sits on a bench to one side in the courtyard, watching a pair of children 'battle' some kind of humanoid automata. As the children's blades hit the construct, smoke wafts from it's wounds.
The girl finally pierces it's chest with her blunt wooden sword and with an exaggerated buzz, fizz and crackle the automata explodes into grey smoke. As the two children cheer Veil turns her attention to the newcomers, she looks older and despite her easy smile, harder than she used to as girl in Yutt's service "If you are here for Epps, he is within." she indicates the hut in the corner of the compound.
Her eyes then flicker with recognition and she drops to one knee "My Lord Yutt, I have been searching for you."

[Eulalios]

"Lux," said Yutt with a slight smile. It was the first smile that Yendra or Ondraieti had seen cross his face in long days. "It is good to see you. What is the news from the Castle?" His courtesy was a rare departure from the bitter and demanding melancholy that had weighed on the exiled prince since the day that he and his retinue were given the choice to submit or to depart from the Castle Perilous. Of those dozen or so, Lux had remained at the castle; the others, save for Ondraieti, had drifted away during Yutt's months of traveling through the hills in search of support. Support they had found only in Yendra, so far.

[Anyr]

Yendra cast a suspicious eye around the compound. It at least didn't seem too luxurious. Epps might not have been hoarding all the town's wealth for himself. Maybe the clothing rule was a petty way of putting himself above the common folk, despite not actually being much better off. Inside, the group was greeted by an attendant. Her greeting was much more enthusiastic than expected. Yendra could hardly believe her ears. Someone actually wanted to join Yutt? After all this time, she'd wondered whether his army would forever be a duo. The Glaive gave a welcoming smile to the prostrate newcomer.

"I take it that you two know each other? I'm Yendra, by the way. I joined (*ahem*) the esteemed Lord Yutt after he was ousted."

[spinningdice]

"The castle stands, though without your presence became increasingly uncomfortable. Your brother is not so gracious a patron. I've been trying to track you down for a couple of months now my lord, just as I thought the trail had gone cold you instead find me."
She turns to Yendra, "I'm Veil, or Lux, I go by Veil now, while I've had some respite here entertaining Epp and his favoured I've been relying more on... other skills lately." the small woman seems to be fairly enthusiastic about meeting her former master.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4




Ondraieti nods its head at the woman who appears to have a history with Yutt. "I am Ondraieti of Trarris from Nebalich. Thank you for indicating where I can find Epps. I will leave you to catch up with Yutt."

With that, Ondraieti approaches the hut Veil had indicated and raps on the side of the entrance's frame.

[Eulalios]

The lizard-headed creature smoothly intercepted Ondraieti. With a slight bow, it hissed, "It will bring you to Big Epps. Follow." Waving a clawed and stubby fingered fore-limb, it gestured them through the high, broad doorway of the Big House.

The big house stood three stories tall, each story about eight feet high, with ornately synth-barred window openings and synth-railed balconies above the doorway on the second and third levels. It spanned fifty feet or so in width. Inside the doorway was an entrance foyer about twelve feet square, with a white tiled floor. It appeared that normally the foyer would be lit by glow balloons positioned at its corners, however, those were dimmed by the same grey cloud as was seen in the street, so the foyer was dim as well. At the far end of the foyer was another door.

The lizard led them through the second door into a large room with a fancy carpet. The room was about thirty feet wide and twenty feet deep. It appeared to be used for entertaining. In the far left corner was a massive couch on which reclined a massive man - easily as big as Yutt, but grossly fat. He wore a green and red paisley belted robe fashioned from shiny synth fabric. Above him floated a clicking clockwork metal sphere with jagged gears. It glowed faintly.

The man was eating, but when the lizard hissed he looked up from the dull metal plate and its pungently-spiced cargo of flatbread and cabbage and yol meat.

"Hah," he said, "I am Epps, and you have come to join my household. You are welcome. You already have met Veil and Werzy. These are some of my other attendants." He gestured around the room at an assortment of seven individuals, all clothed - some plainly, some in shiny fabrics like Epps. Most looked dangerous. Two were obviously mutated - one with a beard of tentacles, the other with a pendulous trunk in place of a nose.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4



The varjellen smiles warmly and politely. "It is an honor to meet you, Epps, and it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Ondraieti, part of the complement of Yutt. My liege is interested in learning of the perspective of others in the kingdom, to understand their views on the grandson who has claimed the throne and how his leadership is perceived.

"I'm one who likes to make myself useful while being a guest in whatever town I find myself in. I noticed your glow balloons are not illuminating as they should. Is there some repair that they need that I might be able to assist with?"

[Anyr]

"Very pleased to meet you!"

Yendra enthusiastically grabbed and shook Veil's hand. A new travelling companion! That'd help lighten things up. Ondraieti was a reliable ally, who she valued. But he wasn't exactly a barrel of laughs. Maybe Veil would be more on Yendra's wavelength.

"So, do you plan on rejoining your master on the road? I for one would be glad to have you along."

[spinningdice]

"Well, it would be a shame to spend so long finding him, just to part ways now. Especially as he has picked up such... interesting travel companions. I look forward to working closely with you." she turns back to the house, "I should probably go and see how your Varjellan is getting along."

[Eulalios]

"I'm not going to stand here like a fool, watching children play," said Yutt. "Yendra, let's follow Lux.
Or Veil."

Inside, Epps shook his head. "We don't understand what happened to the glow balloons. A few hours ago the ground shook briefly and then they went out."

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4




Ondraieti unconsciously lays its crest down. "Yes, well. Would you be willing to share your perspective on the events that transpired within the kingdom, of the grandson having taken the throne and the direct ascendants either pledging fealty or being ostracized? Your opinion on this matter would be most invaluable to us."

[Eulalios]

"Well," said Epps with a gurgling laugh. He paused and adjusted the lapel of his robe. "We don't much care what happens in the hills. Unless some fool comes trying to take tribute from us. We are more concerned with the Saltyrreans down in the city by the coast. Don't want them poking into matters up here in the high plains. Why do you ask? What does it matter to you ... varjellen? Your kin are far away from here. Better for you to come in with us than to keep wandering around asking questions like that. Could use your smooth way with words in case the Saltyrreans do come visiting."

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4




"Your question is a fair one, Epps," Ondraieti replies, letting its crest raise up a bit, displaying the blue and green patterns tattooed in the flesh between the spines. "I was passing through the region when the whole nastiness set upon the kingdom. Say what you will about Yutt, he is loyal, which is an admirable trait that can overshadow many shortcomings. I witnessed a great injustice imposed upon him, and I will remain by his side to see that injustice righted. You could say it compels me at this time. While I appreciate and am flattered by your invitation to join your house, I'm sure a man such as yourself respects an oath of retribution, therefore I respectfully decline."

The varjellen glances back where the foyer lies on the other side of the door and indicates it with a thumb. "Perhaps while we're here we could investigate the quake that disrupted your glow balloons?"

[Eulalios]

Epps frowned and languidly raised the hand that was not holding the dull gray metal plate with its cargo of food. He set the plate down on a low, plainly shaped stronglass table next to his sumptuous green synth-upholstered couch.

From the far corner of the room - just at the edge of Ondraieti's extensive peripheral vision -, a squat fellow wrapped in torn brown rags arose and came swiftly to Epps' side. His expression was fierce and eager; his body, muscular; the knives strapped to him, numerous.

"My invitation is not meant to be refused," Epps said calmly. "I am eager for new friends. You and your companions will become my friends. I am glad to hear that you value loyalty and retribution. You will understand that I like to be avenged of insults to my generous offers of friendship; and you will understand that your loyalty, like that of Dawthyr here, must be unquestionable and unquestioning."

At that moment, Yutt, Yendra, and Veil entered the room.

[Anyr]

Epps was lucky to have Ondraieti around. Because if Yendra had been his only guest, she'd already have attacked. Few things boiled her blood like a demand for unquestioning loyalty. But for the moment at least, she restrained herself. Ondraieti still had the floor. It deserved a chance to defuse the situation with its silver tongue. Though in truth, Yendra hoped for a fight. This petty tyrant clearly deserved a good beating. She subtly shifted to shield Veil. It wouldn't do to let Yutt's disciple get killed, just after she'd finally reunited with him.

[Eulalios]

As the other three joined Ondraieti, it sensed the mood in the room was shifting to something tenser - body postures were changing from relaxed to alert, eyes were tightening, the faint scent of adrenaline began to swell and its plume tingled.

The seven people ranged around the room (beside Epps) included:
Dawthyr (right next to Epps and obviously ready for action, though not yet holding any of his knives),
the fat one with the tentacle beard - who had no visible weapons,
the skinny one with the elephant trunk - who suddenly was holding a strange curved device that had previously been on the floor next to it,
a curvaceous woman wearing sheer veils,
a muscular warrior carrying a big axe and dressed in tight blue synth,
another muscular person with no visible weapons - tattooed on every visible area of skin and dressed in flowing metallic red gown that covered everything but face and hands, and
another who wore a brown caftan and carried a strange square stick in a sheath.

[spinningdice]

Veil didn't like the way this was going and frankly didn't trust Epps, her hand went to her mouth for a second to obscure the illusion of her smiling face - so Epps entourage couldn't see her lips move as she quickly whispered to her new allies
"Epps is a nano, his toy is obviously more, but I don't know what. Axe and Tattoos are the biggest threats but all are competent. Trunks a tinker so might be carrying something."

[spinningdice]

She couldn't really think what else to add, so she dropped the illusion and stepped forwards and addresses Epps "My Lord Epps, these people have wondered far and had trials upon the road. I'm sure we can spare a meal and some rest before expecting a decision. Hunger, pain and exhaustion can make for poor decisions after all. Once everyone is in a better frame of mind I'm sure we can all come to an agreement without violence" She looks towards Sionn and Hallard as she finishes speaking and casually paces between between the parties as if she's in no danger.

[Eulalios]

Epps laughed curtly, not smiling.

"Oh ... Veil," he said. "So young, so new to us. Naive. You don't yet know your place.

"Nemon. Nenni. Teach Veil her place."

The curvaceous woman giggled as she stepped toward Veil, hands reaching out. The one wrapped in the brown caftan also moved forward from the shadows at the end of the room. In a smooth swift motion, that one withdrew from its holster a strange square stick, which it leveled toward Veil.

You are being attacked by Nenni (melee) and the other one whose name you didn't know (ranged weapon at immediate range). Nenni deals Might damage and the other one deals Intellect damage. Make your rolls and narrate results.

Dawthyr stood loose-limbed and blank faced near Epps. His hands rested casually on knife hilts at his thighs.

[spinningdice]

Veil (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kXTK9fwQ17wVgfxQdoB4NtOU-JZjl2kVNu2c-hmaMzI/edit?usp=sharinghttp://)
Might 3/7 | Speed 11/14 | Intellect 15/15(1)

Veil reaches for her blade a moment too slowly as Nenni grabs her with surprising strength. Seeing little elsewhere to dodge, Veil crumples beneath her and they both fall to the ground, Nenni on top, just as 'Nemon's beam skimmed the air where she stood a moment ago. She curses as she lands, she was skinny and clever, not really built for grappling in the drit.

[Anyr]

Yendra and Yutt had heard enough. For once, the two of them were perfectly in synch. When Veil got attacked, they reacted as one.

"Her place?!"

Then, with weapons drawn, they charged.

[Eulalios]

Two warriors stepped forward to meet them. The one in blue synth with the big axe confronted Yutt while the unarmed tattooed man in the flowing red metallic gown faced off against Yendra.
Make the attack and defend for Anyr and Yendra, both the blue and the red are level 5. Yutt has the blaster, which is a ranged weapon that gives a bonus at immediate range. Please narrate results.
Dawthyr swiftly drew two knives that have translucent stronglass blades about the size of Ondraieti's hands. He stepped into Ondraieti's space, menacing with one blade toward the throat and the other toward the gut.
Please declare the varjellen's action and make any appropriate rolls.

[Anyr]

Yutt got off to a depressingly bad start. He eagerly fired his signature blaster; Only to grimace as his shots all missed. Worse still, he was wide open for a counterattack. The enemy's axe sliced his unprotected body. Such was the price of recklessness. Not everyone could pull of that kind of combat style.

Yendra surged forward like a tidal wave. She'd been restraining herself for quite a while. Now all that pent up energy found release. Her enormous sword thrust into the tattooed man's flesh. Judging by his cries, he felt the blow keenly. But he nonetheless fought through the pain. Yendra paid little thought to her own defence. Even as her weapon struck, so too did the monk's fists. They pummelled her with a rapid onslaught of blows. A devastating attack...

...or so he might have thought, until he saw Yendra's unbroken skin. She was completely unharmed. Pulling her weapon back out of his body, she offered him a mocking grin.

"Really? That's it?"

Yendra deals 9 damage (6 base, +1 from Thrust, +1 from fever, +1 from high attack roll).

She absorbs and negates the monk's own damage.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti sighs at the reaction, though it is one it had expected throughout the conversation. "I guess this is how it's going to be..."

It quickly draws its rapier and parries the attack from the blades, but its counterattack swings wide, completely missing its attacker.

[Eulalios]

The muscular red-gowned man drew back from Yendra, taking a wary defensive stance. Blood darkened his garments where the sword had pierced him, but he was controlling his breath and seemed ready to re-engage at any moment.

The axeman in the blue synth body suit laughed wildly at Yutt's distress, and took another swing.

Dawthyr easily hopped back from Ondraieti's wild swing, then lunged in again.

Nenni attempted to immobilize Veil as Nomen moved to kneel beside the struggling women, raising the square stick to press against Veil's temple.

Epps laughed and clapped his hands. The others in the room uneasily mimicked him.

@Anyr, please continue to roll attack and defend for Yutt and Yendra. Blue and red both are level 6.

@chadpants, Dawthyr is level 5.

@spinningdice, Vail again must resist two attacks and has the chance to make one against Nenni.

[spinningdice]

Veil (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kXTK9fwQ17wVgfxQdoB4NtOU-JZjl2kVNu2c-hmaMzI/edit?usp=sharing)
Might 0/7 | Speed 3/14 | Intellect 11/15(1) | Impaired

Veil is starting to panic, she... can't... breathe..., she was never good in a fight, but Nenni was all vitriol and curves - how did she get so strong? She rallies the last of her strength and forces Nenni away, giving enough space to ram the hilt of her Rapier into her side.

[chadpants]

Ondraieti, a Varjellen Jack who Wields Words Like Weapons


Might: 8/10/0
Speed: 11/11/0
Intellect: 12/12/1
Effort: 1
XP: 4




Ondraieti deftly dodges the thrust of the attacker, grabs his arm and turning it back on himself with its parry, while still managing to get a slice into him. The varjellen grins. "Two blades are better than one, huh?" it quips.

Rapier attack plus bonus for 6 points damage.