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Post by xerxez on Dec 7, 2023 21:51:38 GMT -6
"Haha, yes, I will take a draught of this water, but will leave this fine brandy for another day, Fi'ru. The Shen toys with me — I who have been clubbed in the head twice, once by my own over-indulgence, and once by his tail! A great fighter the Shen is — I feel no shame having lost the contest. And now the Shen gives me more liquor — the Shen is generous, but also displays some humor. I will make him a friend. "But Fi'ru — tell me more of what the Shen said! Do they plan to depart over the water? We have many who could advise, or assist." Fi'ru responds: "They said little, Master, but, well, I will admit to eavesdropping as they chatted with Mistress Amiyala in the outter court--and I gathered it to be something grand. If I recall, F'sal said something like, if it worked out, he might soon settle into a life of ease. I think Amiyala has a liking for you--she did scold Bak Su'ul mildly, telling him he was perfectly sober and ought to have curtailed his tail."
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Post by xerxez on Dec 7, 2023 21:58:46 GMT -6
Note: A new player character has been added to the roster!
He is of differing alignment than our heroes but Chicagowiz has played him before in another game with Chirine as GM and wanted to run him again...I thought we could give it a go!
I have posted his character on the roster but of course none of your characters will necessarily know who or what he is (nor even his alignment) so we can have some fun role-playing.
I'm just trying to roll with it as it comes, who knows how it will turn out!!
Will post more tomorrow, my day off is over! Good night.
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flightcommander
Level 6 Magician
"I become drunk as circumstances dictate."
Posts: 370
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Post by flightcommander on Dec 9, 2023 22:30:56 GMT -6
"Bah! Fi'ru, I was in my cups, and taunted the Shen, though not without reason. I deserve the scars and bruises it delivered — and now I know the better how such a one fights! Take a lesson here, if you will!
"In any event I am weary and cannot make clear our next moves. Perhaps Be'van or Ba'lesh will have thoughts on this, when I awake again." Here Mi'kimu slumbers again.
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Post by xerxez on Dec 10, 2023 14:53:38 GMT -6
Thanks for the patience everyone.
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Post by xerxez on Dec 10, 2023 19:12:42 GMT -6
Going where he was told, Tek arrives upon the steps of the Guest House of Amiyala the Ari'dani.
He is curious to meet the noted warrior woman who fought in the Legion of the Twelve Paths of Avanthe.
He had heard of her in his days as a soldier when a Mu'ugalvyani military faction of considerable size organized a large raid on Tsolyanu's Eastern border and razed a few villages ...Amiyala's unit and two others were sent to deal with them.
The Tsol'yani units had been ambushed by superior numbers and many of them slain--but seven survived, Amiyala among them, and gathering a small force of Pa'chi Lei from the forest ( the four legged Leaf Eaters who despise the Red Hats) she, as Kas'i of the units, organized their own ambush.
Lesser in numbers, the surving Legionaires and the Leaf Eaters engaged the Mu'ugalvyani in a fierce fight. Amiyala killed six Red Hats herself.
The Red Hat force being vanquished, Mu'ugalvya later claimed the raiders were former soldiers seduced into becoming outlaws by a charismatic and insane Kas'i who went crazy and they followed their leader blindly, deserting their posts and acting with no official sanction.
The diplomats might even have been telling the truth.
No matter. Tek is a mercenary now, and has heard rumors of a sea voyage to be financed by a Salarv'yani merchant and his clan back in his homeland...F'sal is the merchant.
Tek has letters of recommendation and his military history to fall back on.
He enters the Inn and is met by a young boy and a copper furred ren'yu. They both stand, looking at him.
The ren'yu tilts his canine head curiously.
Balesh is in the common room having a drink. He looks up at the stranger's entrance, seeing an armored man with long black hair and gear for travel and fighting. The boy bows.
"Welcome to the House of Mistess Amiyala. How may we serve you?' @chicagowhiz
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Post by chicagowiz on Dec 11, 2023 6:47:23 GMT -6
"Welcome to the House of Mistess Amiyala. How may we serve you?' I perform the necessary gestures and chat that I know to be proper. "I am Tekar. This house was recommended to me and thus I would seek a room here to stay for a time." I'll slowly take in the occupants, the exits, the windows and any who might seem ... unusual.
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Post by makofan on Dec 11, 2023 7:24:39 GMT -6
Balesh sees a dangerous man. Better to find out immediately if he was friendly. He stands up and addresses the stranger. "My name is Balesh, a traveller like yourself. Please, share a drink with me"
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Post by chicagowiz on Dec 11, 2023 13:53:08 GMT -6
Balesh sees a dangerous man. Better to find out immediately if he was friendly. He stands up and addresses the stranger. "My name is Balesh, a traveller like yourself. Please, share a drink with me" (How is Balesh dressed? What does he look like? Is there anything obvious about him from a Tekumel society/class POV?)
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Post by xerxez on Dec 12, 2023 10:11:47 GMT -6
Tek can see Balesh is an outlander, probably from the Southern continent, dressed in the style of that land and likely nakome (clanless and without Imperial citizenship).
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Post by chicagowiz on Dec 12, 2023 11:36:37 GMT -6
Tekar will greet Balesh with a polite nod. "May the day find you well."
"I must make introductions and courtesies to the Mistress of the House. If you'd be willing to guide me to her...?"
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Post by makofan on Dec 15, 2023 7:05:16 GMT -6
"My pleasure" says Balesh. He guides the new arrival to Amiyala
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Post by xerxez on Dec 15, 2023 15:15:43 GMT -6
"My pleasure" says Balesh. He guides the new arrival to Amiyala Amiyala is in the back portico of the inn, sitting at a table and looking over maps and sea charts. Upon seeing Balesh and Tek come out of the back of the inn into the pillared porch which provides some shade from the muggy, hot day, she rises. Seeing the Tsol'yani warrior and able to tell immediately by his bearing that he is not of low clan, she greets him with an honorable salutation. "May I inquire, worthy warrior, as to your name? I am Amiyala hiVirdame, born in the Golden Dawn clanhouse here in Jakalla."
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Post by chicagowiz on Dec 16, 2023 8:24:03 GMT -6
I bow low in the appropriate way as befitting Amiyala's reputation and status.
"I am Tekar hi Kaikumesh, of the Exalted Flame clan, warrior... " (I stop short, not revealing my second occupation as priest) " ... although of late, misfortune and circumstance has dictated that I seek to ply my trade in different ways. I thank you for your well-come and beg to be permitted to stay at your House for a time."
After additional small talk, I will explain to Amiyala that I seek employment of my sword, and was recommended to seek out a merchant named F'sal.
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Post by xerxez on Dec 17, 2023 20:59:29 GMT -6
AMIYALA: "Exalted Flame is well known to me...they have a great clan-house in Fasil'tum.
Yes, I know F'sal. He may be looking for men and women for guardians of his caravans.
He and his entourage will return tonite.
If you would like a room with a private bath, it is 2 Kaitar a week.
There will be a meal tonite, I could introduce you.
Balesh, wold you see if Mi'kimu and Be'van coud join us again, along with you, if the warrior has healed?
Perhaps there are mutual interests to speak over good brandy and food."
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Post by xerxez on Dec 17, 2023 21:15:25 GMT -6
Amiyala smiles politely but her eyes are serious as she calls for other servants and bids them prepare Tek's room, if he will have it.
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Post by chicagowiz on Dec 18, 2023 8:35:23 GMT -6
(OOC note: Chirine had noted that I had "over 100 Kaitars" but I'm not sure if that was starting coin or a reward from our adventure, of if that's even a lot of money. If you're OK with it, I'll assume I have 100?)
I bow again at the waist to Amiyala. "I am honored and accept, both the room and your gracious invitation. It's good to know that my information is correct on the opportunity."
I'll wait for the servants to finish, bow both to Amiyala and Balesh, and retire to my room to dress appropriately and rest for the meal.
I'll also, as is common for one expecting to possibly be set upon by rival clans, temples or societies, check for traps, possible murder holes and potential exits (for myself) in the room.
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Post by xerxez on Dec 18, 2023 18:28:05 GMT -6
(OOC note: Chirine had noted that I had "over 100 Kaitars" but I'm not sure if that was starting coin or a reward from our adventure, of if that's even a lot of money. If you're OK with it, I'll assume I have 100?) I bow again at the waist to Amiyala. "I am honored and accept, both the room and your gracious invitation. It's good to know that my information is correct on the opportunity." I'll wait for the servants to finish, bow both to Amiyala and Balesh, and retire to my room to dress appropriately and rest for the meal. I'll also, as is common for one expecting to possibly be set upon by rival clans, temples or societies, check for traps, possible murder holes and potential exits (for myself) in the room. 100 Kaitars seems reasonable for your level, I will assume that you are in possession of the money.
A thorough search of the quarters you are left to seems to Tek to indicate nothing nefarious or out of order...no traps. There is a window which can be shuttered and barred from within, and he is on the 2nd level of the guesthouse. When open the window overlooks the front courtyard and some of the streets beyond the walls of the property.
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Post by xerxez on Dec 18, 2023 18:30:54 GMT -6
The day passes and there is some stir as F'sal, Bak Su'ul and the Pygmy Folk return.
Mi'kimu feels much recovered, and indeed has some appetite when word is sent of dinner and perhaps council...
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flightcommander
Level 6 Magician
"I become drunk as circumstances dictate."
Posts: 370
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Post by flightcommander on Dec 18, 2023 21:44:30 GMT -6
Mi'kimu, feeling refreshed, dons his fine over-cloak and prepares himself to join a welcome supper. All the while he wonders what has become of his missing compatriots — Charbek, left behind in the tombs, alas; N'Rasa the magic-user; Mohammad the priest. He hopes they are preparing to enjoy a fine meal among friends, wherever they are.
As he turns to leave his room, his thoughts turn to Bak Su'ul. Mi'kimu thinks it best to pay respectful deference to the Shén, should they meet again, and to be mindful of his manners in any event — especially with regards to the brandy.
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Post by chicagowiz on Dec 19, 2023 8:11:01 GMT -6
Tekar relaxes and makes notes of his journeys in a journal, using the particular script style he was taught that keeps ones thoughts unreadable to others. Once done, he'll dress in neutral attire that doesn't attract attention to himself. He finish waiting for dinner summons by being prayer to his Lord ***************.
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Post by xerxez on Dec 19, 2023 13:32:03 GMT -6
Musing upon old friends, Mi'kimu does enjoy seeing N'rasa from time to time staying at the guest house, but she and Mohammad have been occupied in exploring the Temple Districts and questioning adherents and priests about the more detailed doctrines of the various sects. Charbok's whereabouts remain a mystery that troubles him...yet he feels some certainty the priest escaped the tombs alive... As the party enters the pillared alcove within Amiyala's house to sit at table over the glorious aroma of roasted H'melu meat and onions, served with simmered squashes, potatoes and green vegetables, Amiyala is heard making apology to Tek that the seating arrangements here do not reflect his status but graciously seats him next to her. Balesh and Mi'kimu sit next to him, across from F'sal and the Pygmy Folk, while Bak Su'ul sits near Mi'kimu and Be'van, who is directly across from the Mistress. Seeing Mi'kimu's deferential attitude, the Shen claps the warrior twice upon the back, not roughly, a sign of courtesy among equals in Shen'yu. "No need for that, sword-brother," he growls. "You and Balesh are my equals now. We Shen acknowledge the courtesy of status and rank in manners only to appease dignities... within we only honor the brave and the fierce." As the meal commences, the bottle is passed and the spirits poured, Amiyala pouring for Tek as well as serving him. Small talk and idle chatter quickly passes and Amiyala brings the table deftly and politely to buisness. After she relates to F'sal Tek's interest, the merchant seems a bit surprised. F'SAL: "I suppose that given our inquiries upon the harbor docks word must have traveled quickly. Yes, I am hiring a ship's captain to take us abroad on a voyage across the sea to the Southern Continent. A voyage of two weeks. And I am looking for some men..or women...of mettle...to come along. However, I require great discretion. The exact location of of our voyage will not be revealed until we are well underway, almost there, in fact. I will say it will be nothing short of peril and perhaps terrors to make a Shen think twice...even my close associates here do not know the exact nature of this adventure's cause. I need experienced sea-men, capable warriors, and sealed lips. I am willing to answer some questions, and hear any offers from any present here to join...I know I sit among stalwart souls. One who has fought with the Legion of Red Devastation in the Emperor's service is an esteemed attendant...(he nods to Tek)...my companions are going as well...and the toughness of these Nurobites is well attested. So...let us speak of business, shall we?"
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Post by xerxez on Dec 19, 2023 14:13:56 GMT -6
Knowing it a breach of manners to come late to a meal but also knowing the regard in which he is held by Amiyala, Mohammad, the Priest of Qon enters the meal chamber with a two-fold bow of apology, and sits upon the floor in silence.
F'sal regards him curiously.
Amiyala bids him join the table, though.
"Mohammad, welcome," she says. "F'sal, another friend and ally of Karunaz."
F'sal nods graciously, while Tek senses another spell-caster has entered...though he would say nothing of it.
(dtspurrier has rejoined our game! Yay!)
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Post by dtspurrier1 on Dec 19, 2023 15:48:19 GMT -6
A good looking holy man enters the banquet. he wears the holy symbol of the traveling god smiles and bows. He says, " greetings Amiyala thank you for the invitation. The feast looks excellent."
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flightcommander
Level 6 Magician
"I become drunk as circumstances dictate."
Posts: 370
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Post by flightcommander on Dec 19, 2023 23:03:17 GMT -6
"Mohammad! The light of your eyes brings me joy!" Mi'kimu rises to embrace the priest. @dtspurrier
Mi'kimu then turns to F'sal, with a brief side-glance towards Be'van, and speaks.
"F'sal: my countrymen and I are experienced mariners — we have built our ships from trunks we have shaped, from ropes we have worked, from canvas we have cut — and we have fought from them with javelins, and blades. If it is experienced sea-men you seek, you have found some.
"You say this journey takes but two weeks — but when might we return? My heart longs to see the dark and empty sky above the whale-road. All the same, perhaps you might elaborate on your plans?"
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Post by xerxez on Dec 19, 2023 23:33:31 GMT -6
"Mohammad! The light of your eyes brings me joy!" Mi'kimu rises to embrace the priest. @dtspurrier Mi'kimu then turns to F'sal, with a brief side-glance towards Be'van, and speaks. "F'sal: my countrymen and I are experienced mariners — we have built our ships from trunks we have shaped, from ropes we have worked, from canvas we have cut — and we have fought from them with javelins, and blades. If it is experienced sea-men you seek, you have found some. "You say this journey takes but two weeks — but when might we return? My heart longs to see the dark and empty sky above the whale-road. All the same, perhaps you might elaborate on your plans?" F'sal regards Mi'kimu with a smile. "The dark sea road is a friend indeed, for those who love it. Only the two moons and the winds guide the sailor at night...but there is something in the lap of the waves against the hull, the seabirds as they follow, and even the rolling wave of the storm that richly satisfies the soul of a mariner. Aye, I know it. I cannot compromise my mission by speaking freely. In the Imperium, eyes watch and ears listen. I can say that we will travel into a hostile land, a boggy expanse inhabited by a warlike race, and there we will seek a treasure of the Ancients. And I have a guide into that land who shall join us upon our voyage. His people dwell there with little heed of the Petal Throne...they are of deemed of no importance. But within their realm is a prize of great importance to me...and others. We may be there for a week, maybe two...maybe longer. Then we return. I can promise you tremendous wealth. And even favor, in that day when you may apply for citizenship in the Empire of the Petal Throne. Your skills and courage are welcome." Be'van smokes his pipe and listens, his eyes closed as the merchant speaks. When the man is done, he opens his eyes, looks at Mi'kimu and nods.
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Post by xerxez on Dec 19, 2023 23:41:22 GMT -6
One of the pygmy Folk ...N'fret...looks upon Mohammad.
"You are fine featured, Outlander.
Are you a devotee of Hiri'hyal or Dla'melish, the Green Eyed Lady of Sins?"
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Post by dtspurrier1 on Dec 20, 2023 8:17:05 GMT -6
Mohammad wearing his ceremonial yellow robes and yellow headress with a holy symbol of the V on top of ways, says " thank you for the compliment. I am a devotee of Belkhan, lord of the excellent dead, master of the paradises. Worshipers of the church of the green eye lady of sins may have kidnapped a dear friend of mine Dakota. "
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Post by chicagowiz on Dec 20, 2023 9:07:09 GMT -6
Amiyala is heard making apology to Tek that the seating arrangements here do not reflect his status but graciously seats him next to her. I assure Amiyala that the seating is fine and that I am honored to be sitting at the table with one such as Amiyala. I don't say it in a fanboi kind of way, but in one acknowledging an elder or one of (well-deserved) reputation. As the meal commences, the bottle is passed and the spirits poured, Amiyala pouring for Tek as well as serving him. I make the appropriate gestures of social appreciation and will be sure to return same. I remain quiet and listen to all who speak, to figure out those who are in power, and those who are the steel behind the power, even of this small group. One who has fought with the Legion of Red Devastation in the Emperor's service is an esteemed attendant...(he nods to Tek)...my companions are going as well...and the toughness of these Nurobites is well attested. So...let us speak of business, shall we?" I nod my head in acknowledgement of the truth, but also remain quiet and listen. How do the companions of F'sal react to his news? Is this something they seem to have already known or is this secrecy a surprise to them as well?
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flightcommander
Level 6 Magician
"I become drunk as circumstances dictate."
Posts: 370
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Post by flightcommander on Dec 21, 2023 0:00:25 GMT -6
At this, Mi'kimu blinks an understood pattern (+ + —) that none will notice, except Be'van, who is watching closely, despite his outwardly sleepy demeanor.
Mi'kimu: "Excellent! ... and who might this guide be, and are they present? "
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Post by dtspurrier1 on Dec 21, 2023 7:58:07 GMT -6
Mohammad interested in this adventure says, " yes who is this guide."
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