MONDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2004
Logfile from Two Moons - Strongbow.
Riverbend
A wide clearing in the bend where Sweetwater river from the north joins the Forbidden River from the east, both continuing onwards to the western coast as the Blue River. The humans call this river the Great Water. There is a grassy space where tents have been pitched in the past and a small circle of soot-covered stones.
The twin stars of Timmorn's Eyes begin to come out as the dimming red light of sunset fills the chill winter skies.
Some time has passed since the devastating battle. The many moons of separation spent preparing for the conflict had suggested that there would be casualties, though it did little to prepare the survivors of the experience. Still camping near the palace and the mountain, the Lost Holters rise to the setting sun, the nights setting in earlier as winter wears on. There have been nights filled with soulful howls, many that have likely reached the heigts of Blue Mountain. It is one of many nameless gray nights that the camp is just now beginning to awaken and remember it's grief.
Skywise, unable to stand the confinement of his tent, rose early while the sun was in the throes of an incredible sunset and stole silently from the camp to watch. It is just now that he wanders back, hand and cheek full of capnuts. A moon peeks over the opposite horizon as the camp murmurs awake.
Strongbow has woken as well, stepping from the brush in which he, his mate, and his wolffriend had slept. Shaking vigrously, the motion flings bits of twig and stick and dry leaf from unruly brown locks. THe motion is mimicked by the wolfess at his side before both stretch and yawn with unhurried abandon. Spotting Skywise returning to camp, the archer grins lightly, and huffs a greeting toward the fair-haired elf, a send accompanying the motion. **YOu're up early.**
Meanwhile, in a parallel panel.
Swooping forth from the heights of Blue Mountain, twin bondbirds cut their way through the evening's darkening sky. Each carrying a Chosen, and one taller elf. They turn gracefully in the air, changing their heading, closing rapidly the distance from the Gloomy peaks of Blue Mountain, to here, to the Palace.
From a tent set up closer to the river, steps a sleepy young lass just barely entering that noy-a-cub stage. curled by the entrance, a grey wolf still sleeps since she's not needed just yet by her young bond.
For his part, Vitric has been in a morose mood since Marengo's disappearance. The normally mild Villager has gone about his assigned camp chores competantly enough, but he's been nearly as growly as Strongbow as of late. At the moment, he's smoking tongue-shaped chunks of meat over a greenwood fire.
Moonshade pokes her head out of the brush and looks around. She twists her head from side to side, causing a rather disgusting popping noise to emit from her neck. She sniffs the air silently then slips out of the brush. Her eyes rest on Strongbow and a sliver of a smile creeps across her face.
You sense in a locksend, Moonshade sneaks into your mind. Love and greeting mingle in her thoughts.
Strongbow's immediate answer is the crunching of the capnuts, before a short send and a grin, **Yup.** The smokey fire is noted but not bothered with, and Skywise finds a spot to sit down and does so, leaning back on his elbows and loudly finishes his snack.
You locksend to Moonshade, Strongbow's mind snuggles back into yours. **Feel good.** reow. what a morning.
Closing the distance with little effort, the Giant hawks come within slight of the Palace, and the elves around it. The Lord speaks softly into Her Chosen, Generi's ear, and instructs him to send to the other bondbird, and its occupants. Moments later, the word comes back, yes the cargo is secure, everything is well. The birds come in lower, readying to land in a bare patch, clear of tents.
A toothy grin emerges from Strongbow's countance, nutmeg colored eyes turning back to peer at his life mate. A locksend dances between the two before the archer turns toward a lowlaying tree root. With the sun gone from the sky and the moons having yet to rise, the approaching bond birds, are for the moment, unnoticed by the acting chieftain. Skirting the clearing, and keeeping as far from that smoke fire as possible, Strongbow takes a seat. **Find any sweatleaf, stargazer?**
Redstar tilts her head a bit while she listens to the soothing sound of the river drowning out much of the surrpunding noises. Old habits dieing hard, she perks up a bit and asks, ** Sweetleaf? **
Vitric hangs up the last string of meat and leans back beneath his shelter, staring up at the stitched hides, listening to the silence all around. He can hear his tribemates rustling around. Sending, he supposes. He waits. It seems like too much trouble to get up at the moment.
Moonshade walks out of the bushes and over to her mate. She nuzzles him affectionately then steps back and looks around. Seeing Skywise she greets him. "Ayooah Skywise."
Finishing his moutful, Skywise answers the Archer's query, "'Course," and pulls a few fragrant leaves from a little pouch on his belt. He hands one to Strongbow and offers another to Redstar just as the hawks land, though he's oblivious to that fact, and leans back with a leaf of his own to enjoy. Though it's winter, the night is somehow mild, and the wolfriders are more at ease than they have been the many nights since the horrible battle. "Ayooah, Moonshade," he answers the tanner.
The Two Hawks arrive, touching down almost in tandem, he massive sweeps of their wings kicking up dirt, and small objects in a tiny whirlwind. As the Dust settles, each Chosen assists their passenger down, Generi lending a careful hand to the Lord, Winnowill, and Reevol levitating Savah down from her prone position on birdback. The Lord eyes the surroundings, fingers stepped before her. "Excellent, an adequate number of messengers." Comes her low mournful tones. "Chosen, bring my Dark Sister here carefully."
Strongbow's fingers take the bright green leaves, a light frown perching on his lips. 'I wanted the twigs,' he thinks, then shrugs and shoves one of the leaves into his mouth, chewing the leaf into a green sugary pulp. As the giant wings bring up the dirt and dust and dry leaves, Strongbow winces, one eye closing. Bringing an arm up to cover his eyes, the archer looks over. **Snake,** his mind rings out to his tribe mates (Vitric included). A single word warning to be on guard, and polite, all at once.
Redstar growls once the send reachers her, the sound awakening the wolf beside her. While she chews on the leaf given to her, she turns in the direction of the debris being whipped up by giant wings. wild curls are flung about before settling back to her shoulders while waits to see what the old snake has to say. She won't believe a word of it anyway.
Vitric is oblivious to the send, but not so wrapped up in worry that he misses the sight of the bondbirds touching down. He rolls to his feet with something almost like grace and pokes his head out to observe...
"Savah?" he whispers in surprise.
Moonshade frowns when she hears Winnowill speak, but she keeps her feelings inside. Her body posture is tense. When she hears Redstar growl her frown deepens and she turns on Redstar.
Skywise pulls himself up into a more alert sitting position, ready to roll to a crouch if necessary, but still relaxed. After the carnage brought on by the twins, Winnowill just isn't such a scary enemy anymore... Especially if Savah is with her.
Winnowill smiles wanly at the small band, and sweeps her eyes to the side, to ensure Her Chosen are up to the task She has given them. Apparently whatever they are doing meets with her approval, as Savah is brought closer to the Palace, unresponsive as she may be. Winnowill seeks about and finds an appropriate candidate. "Archer, Chief in standing of your tribe." It's an address, and doesn't sound overtly impolite. Seems the Gliders have come along way in dealing with wolfriders.. or at least getting better at hiding it. "You know why we are here? PLease send to the master of the Palace and let him know we have arrived to seek Savah's healing.
The dark skinned Mother of Memory remains held aloft by the powers of the Chosen near to her. Her eyes are closed, and she looks a little thinner than she should. Her skin is lacking the usual richness to its shade, the lack of awareness for so long having left her with a rather sallow look. Her eyes are closed, and though she breathes, she seems not at all aware anything is going on about her.
Strongbow's eyes shift to take in Savah's form. Standing tall and silent, heartbeats pass in which is seems Strongbow will not reply. That is until, he nods once and locksends into the Palace's interior.
You locksend ** Cub. Savah has arrived, carried by Chosen. ** to Suntop.
Redstar sets her cherubic features into a scowl while keeps an ear trained on Winnowill and her chosen. Only a rather distant look and the feeling of sends flitting about prove she's not completely paying attention.
Suntop locksends ** Where? **
You locksend ** Just outside the Palace. Do you want them to take her in to you, or will yu come out for her? ** to Suntop.
Suntop locksends ** It might be better to bring her in here...safer, at least. **
Moonshade walks over and cuffs Redstar on the back of the head. There is obvious anger there, but she did not hit hard enough to hurt. This appears to be a teaching or punishment method rather than a beating.
Skywise watches as Savah's nearly lifeless form is floated into view. Hm. Maybe Savah's not doing so well. And even though the palace would be the best place for her, the fact that Winnowill is bringing her seems... Very Un-Winnowill. Therefore, it's spooky. Skywise notices Strongbow's short nod in response, but decides to stay outside the palace when the others go in; whatever Savah's state, he can do little for her himself. Besides - he got up to watch the sky tonight.
Winnowill stands, flanked by Chosen, seemingly as comfortable here in the Outside as She would be sitting on Her Throne. Lovely Chain at the base of that Throne, isn't there? Her face is unreadable, save for the odd twitch, which quickly is smoothed over. She awaits Suntop, so she can get her Sister healed.
Sends flicker about the archer as he watches Winnowill in silence, ignoring his mate's chiding of the cub. As an elder, that's her right to do. Still sending, Strongbow turns his head and spits out the half-chewed lump.
You locksend ** So, you'll let them in? ** to Suntop.
Suntop locksends ** Of course I will! **
Just as the chewed lump strikes the grass near his feet, Strongbow's eyes seem to relax, turning from WInnowill to the CHosen, then back to Their Lord. **He's welcoming them in to drop her off. Better send for directions.**
Redstar cringes instinctively when she's cuffed, but instead of relenting, she turns that same growl on Moonshade. The wolf is already awake and whining at her bond to calm down. The young elf steps away from Moonshade and beckons the wolf to follow. for now, her concentration is on Moonshade, even as she climbs onto the wolf's back.
Winnowill steps forward, Chosen to each side, ready and wary. Savah floats along like a good little balloon at the side. "Thank you, Wolf-chief. I'm sure we will find the way." With no further thought for those outside, the group makes it way towards the Palace.
Savah continues looking like a good little MoM balloon. Following along, held aloft by another's will.
Moonshade's nostrils flare. She is not a good elf to ignore. She takes rapid steps and easily catches up with the young elf. Being taller than a child does have it's advantages. She reaches out to grab the cub's collar. Her color is rising, this is not a happy Moon.
Winnowill chuckles for no apparent reason, something has struck her as quite funny.
Strongbow watches Winnowill turn and head into the Palace before turning to watch Moonshade deal with the cubling. Sending to his mate, Strongbow makes his way to the river to rinse out his mouth.
You locksend ** Problems, beloved? ** to Moonshade.
Moonshade pages: You locksend, to Redstar, Winnowill: ** Don't you even think about walking away from me. You want to die? Do you? I'm sure that can be arranged! However you are not about to get the rest of us killed. Now, act your age! You aren't in swaddling wraps anymore but you act like you are. You just better get your head on straight and your head out of the river, before one of us knocks it off! **
You sense in a locksend, Moonshade shares Redstar's send with you. >>Redstar replies with her vehemence rising. **Then I'll die trying. I refuse to live this half life any longer. I refuse to to have to go on being blind because she wanted to take my sight away. I never did a thing to her or her stupid chosen. I did nothing to deserve to be beaten and chained! Let her feel what it was like to have that done to her!! **<< ** If she wants to die, we out to leave her out here to starve. She'll never find her way home without us. She's weak. We should just let the wolves kill her and be done with it. ** The scary thing is that she means it and you know it. This is one of those times that remind you that Moon has been a little strange in the turns since her return from the Underworld. Though it is a wolf thought, it is not a WolfRider thought.
Redstar isn't a happy cub, either. Having a hand so close to those scars on her neck sends her over the edge enough to try and bite Moonshade's wrist to make her let go while her hands come up to push the elder away. "Let go!" she shouts as she moves to pull away.
"Enough!" Strongbow's voice, deep, growly, rings out through the night. Not waiting he moves over toward the pair. Alpha will settle this, and settle this now.
Moonshade throws the cub at her mate with quite a bit of force. Rage distorts her face. Her breath comes heavy through her nostrils. One last send tears from her to cub.
You sense in a locksend, Moonshade is near to throttling the cub all the way back to the Holt. If she gets her hands around Redstar's neck, there is a good chance she will severely injur her. ** She thinks she can ignore me because the Underworlder changed me!**
You locksend to Moonshade, Strongbow is very very angry this has escalated this far. **And you need to know that cubs are weak and we must, as Elders see them made strong,** Strongbow snaps with authority and love.
Redstar would glare at Moonshade if she could, but as it is, she tries to push off of strongbow to stand then says aloud to the tanner with her own rage filling her young voice, "You never cared about anything but your stupid leathers." There's a single tear in the corner of her eye as she motioins for Digger to come to her side so she can stalk off.
You sense in a locksend, Moonshade tries to reign herself in. ** She's been wallowing in self pity for turns now. I'm sick of it. A wolfrider deals with it. Now she's trying to get us all killed. I won't let her do it! She's going to start a fight with Winnowill because the Snake blinded her. She refused to back off when I told her to and that's how this whole thing started. ** She doesn't seem to be justifying so much as explaining. She obviously does not feel remorseful for tossing the cub like a sack of berries.
Moonshade's voice drops down to a soft, monotone sound. The anger is still there, but her voice rings true. "That's a lie and you know it. I tried to take care of you, but you want us all to coddle you. You're blind. The Black Snake blinded you, but that is no reason to start a fight with her. If I can toss you around like that, imagine what the Snake could do to you with send. She's more powerful than you. Get used to it. She has hands of hands of hands of experience more than you. If you attack her, we'll end up getting killed to rescue you. Don't do it."
The growl that comes from Strongbow's throat had better put an end to any retreat, even as a very heavy send goes from Archer to Cub. **You will respect your elders, and you will Listen to what is being said now, lest you find yourself lower in the pack than Cub, Redstar. Lone wolves fair not well at all.** It's not a threat. It's the Way. **We expect cubs to be weak and unable to care for themselves, but you are fast out growing that, and reaching the ages were you MUST provide for yourself and for the rest of the tribe. We all have our place, from hunting, to howling, to skygazing, and even TANNING. YOu have no place! You refuse to find your place. Dead weight will only be carried so long before it is chewed off. Revenge is NOT the Way. Needless death is NOT the Way. Needless death because of revenge is NOT the Way. You WILL find your place in this tribe. You WILL pull your weight, and you WILL grow up. I will not fight your challenges to keep you in our tribe if you do not. Have I made myself clear?** The full weight of Strongbow's mind is pressed against Redstar, like a dominant wolf pressing his teeth to the nose of the other. As Moonshade speaks, Strongbow snaps at his lifemate, just as he snapped at the cub, **And you will remain silent, Tanner, while I settle this petty fight.**
The two Chosen still flank their Lord as they leave the Palace, Savah-less. And such a confrontation to step into. I wonder what this could be about?... muwahahahaha. She keeps Her silence, brining a slender hand to her mouth, evaluating just what is going on.. and perhaps how it could be made worse.
Redstar raises a brow as she turns to face strongbow's voice, "Is that so? Has no one noticed the gathering I've done, or what aid I could give in tracking? I guess not since I'm lower than low in this pack. If that is how it is, then I'll keep to the scraps all outsiders fight over. We'll see what you miss as the whitecold gets colder."
Strongbow scowls at that, silent a moment. Finally, his mind seems final. **You have chosen your place, Outsider. The pack will no longer aid you,** he replies, eyes narrowed angrily. A moment, then he turns and puts his back to Redstar, grabbing his mate's elbow and all but hauling her away. Time for these two to 'talk'.
Winnowill smiles lightly. And then looks to her Chosen, whispers a very brief. "We should leave them to their squabbles." With that, The Chosen and Lord head towards their Hawks.
Redstar nods once then shrugs as she and digger walk off. ** I've always been the outsider, or didn't you know that. ** With that, she turns her back on the archer and lets the wolf guide her to where ever her father had gone earlier during the day.
==============================================================================
Message: 10/10 in folder main Received: Mon Oct 25 20:06:37 2004
From: Strongbow
To: ^lostholt (global mail alias)
Subject: Challenge: Redstar.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FYI all tribe members: Redstar has been downgraded ICly to an Outsider. She is to be treated with all the 'love' and 'attention' there of. Treat her as you would any lone wolf intruding upon Pack Territory, for Redstar is no longer to be considered part of the tribe. Please let me know if you would like more IC information, and I will schedule scenes with you.
xx-----> Strongbow <-----xx
==============================================================================
Monday, October 25, 2004
Friday, May 21, 2004
Lost: Underworlder. Found: Smurf.
FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2004
Logfile from Two Moons - Strongbow.
Path
The path circumvents the holt proper, used mostly by the elves for travel to the woods behind the great Father tree. Overgrown, clinging vines crisscross the path, sometimes low to the ground causing you to cross over or under them, or push them out of the way outright as you walk. The ground here looks to have been worn down some with time and you see small bushes lie nearby, perhaps sheltering small game, such as ravitts or perhaps deer. You hear hushed noises as the holt slowly comes to life as elves and wolves awaken from the hot summer sleep.
Crashing through the woods, something big is lumbering, its way. The sound of heavy foot steps, then falling, a scramble to be upright, more footsteps and down again. Not yet visible to anyone or anything, the creature follows no path, save for that which is haphazardly felt for - and its not a very good one.
Of course there are scouts! This is Lostholt! Are you /daft/? And tonight, it's Strongbow. As the sound reaches his ears, he turns to look, inhaling the scents about him as he draws an arrow to fit onto the string of his bow. Food or enemy.... Which is it?
Taking an evening walk alone with her wolf, Redstar is out and about, following her nose to find specific berry bushes. Both young elf and wolf look up at the same time when they hear something coming alongthe apth. It takes very little for this not so little cub to urge the wolf to guide her off the path and hide.
Stumble, crash. No words spoken, but the wind shifts, and the scent, the undeniable scent of elf and deep caverns filled with darkness is carried to any elf upwind from where something is coming from. Through the bushes, a break in motion allows something to be seen, blue? But then its down again, as once more the elf crashes to the floor, getting wonderfully scratched up, but already once more preparing to rise awkwardly.
A deep growl comes from Strongbow's throat as the scent of the underworld reaches his nose. Near him, having been sitting with her mate, is Moonshade. She perks up as the archer growls. Without another thought, and only more growls, Strongbow takes aim on the smurfette.
Redstar peers out from her hiding, well she tries t at least, and listens to the on coming crashing of a much bigger being. From the wolf beside her, a low growl emits.
There's a pause in the haphazard steps of the elfess, did she hear something? Her head cocks right, then left, and then a careful step is taken forward, only for a branch beneath her feet to roll under the weight of her being. Her blue hands shoot up in the air as a counterbalance, but too late! Down on her rump the elfess goes, landing hard enough to bring tears to her eyes, but not a squeal of pain does she make.
Moonshade's eyes narrow as she too catches the smell of the intruder. She tests the water with a send. ** Who's there? ** A send flits from her to her mate as he stands ready to attack.
Ready to attack?OF COURSE he's ready to attack! Though his eyes remain on Marengo, his nose tests the air, searching for others.
Moonshade locksends ** I smell danger. But do not attack just yet. You don't want to kill unneccesarily. **
A louder growl comes from Digger while Redstar rests a hand on the she-wolf's back. She knows the others are there, so she stays put and waits.
No other scents cling to Marengo, and so, when the breeze blows again, it tells those searching the air for such - this one is all alone. The mind voice that sends, is an unknown to her, and so fear blazes in the back of her mind, and though she might be older than some, she is no adult (at least in the underworld) therefore, incapable of hiding her emotions, ** Forgive me, please. I mean no offense. I am Marengo servan... ** There's a healthy pause, and she starts anew, ** I am Lady Second of Juraido <> **
Moonshade growls softly. Her voice is harsh. "Stand up. Now! We need to see you." She rests her hands on her hips confrontationally.
Strongbow can actually remember the last Juraido that wandered through the holt. Mostly because she left a floater. Freakin' undrworlders! You're mother doesn't work here! So clean up after yourself!! Letting his mate 'speak' for him, Strongbow adds, **And keep your hands were they can be seen, dirt-digger.**
Redstar vaguely remembers other Underworld visiters, and though her adopted father is one, she's never thought of him as anything other than part of the tribe. Growing more curious by the moment, she leans up and shushes her growling wolf.
Commands, thats something she can handle, even if the minds that relay them are wholly unfamiliar. Putting her hands down on the ground, her hands fumble about, until her knuckles slam into a tree trunk, in the fashion of one blindly searching about for something to hold to. A gasp of breath and a wince, but using that trunk, Marengo stands to her full height, frame ultra willowy like all those in the Underworld. Except, there are some vast differences between her and others from below, her skin, is blue, every little bit that is visible, is a bright shade of blue. Funky, huh?
Moonshade does a double take as the blue elf stands, but she quickly recovers. "What do you want?" Her stance is firm and threatening. It's obvious she could attack easily.
Strongbow doesn't do a double take. He's surprise is wrapped up with his mate's. Instead, he merely growls more, and keeps a nice firm aim on Marengo's heart. She blinks funny, and she's dead.
Redstar slowly stands, and though she can't see what is going on, she can tell something has Moonshade and Strongbow a bit more.. surprised, than they should be. Still, she remains quiet, listening for now, though her wolf stpes back out onto the path.
Marengo slowly lifts her hands and arms to an outward - I ain't got nothing cause you'd see it if I did - position. Trembling, the leaves of some sprig of a bush rustle from her nervous motion. ** I.. I come looking.. for someone. Lord Elessardo. ** Yeah, she's real covert ain't she?
Moonshade eyes the blue elf further. "Why do you think he would be here?" Her tone is no less terse than before. She's still ready attack or direct her mate to attack at the slightest sign of danger.
Strongbow growls at the word Lord, and his upper lip curls back in cold cruel sneer. Strongbow and Lord... don't mix.
Redstar steps out along side of her wolf, not about to left without a guide, and to keep the she-wolf cam.
** I.. I ** Marengo's head hangs down, but like a perfect servant, she doe snot change the position of her body - one might wonder what the ring on her finger meant seeing her act like this, good ting she's not below. Uncertainly her sending picks up, ** I come trying to find him. Was told he left the tunnels, and... ** And like a moron, up and out she went.
Moonshade steps forward and stares at the foreigner. "So you assumed he came here? What would he be doing here?" Seeing the elfess cower, she steps up the intimidation. Her tolerance for Underworlders is as limited as her mate's.
Strongbow slips from the branch he was perched upon, his aim slipping as he does. But it lasts only an heartbeat before it returns to the underworld's heart... or the spot it should be, as the case may be. Elbow bent, and hand by his cheek, Strongbow has the arrow drawn fully, and the only indication of just how upset he is, comes in the form of a faint tremble along his forearm. Come on, smurf. Tell us you came for a tribemate. Go ahead. I dare you.
Intimidation works well on this elfess, for she trmbles even more, ** I.. I didn't come here on purpose. I don't even know where here is. I am sorry - I, umm.. if you, turn me the right way back to the tunnel.. I will go. I not meaning to upset and enter a House without permission. Please, I am sorry. I truly am. ** Her head bows even further, her chin touching her chest, her hair spilling about her. And yet, her arms remain outstretched, the muscles burning and twitching, sweat breaking out as she works to hold the ordered pose she has not yet been released from.
Redstar finally speaks up after all this time, "I think she means it. Sounds scared to me."
Moonshade looks at the stranger. "Come here!" She barks the order out. "And why did your friend leave the tunnels? Why would he be heading our way?" Though she may be shorter than Marengo, her personality is quite overwhelming.
Espeically when you couple to it Strongbow's growls. GRRRR GRRRRR GRRRR GRRRRRRR
Redstar stays well enough back she's not in the way, but she still stands where she can be seen.
** Yes Lady. ** ITs a habit formed sending, for only a Lady would command like this. Her hands do not come down, for that order was not given, and she is finely attuned to following orders - she's learned that lesson well. One foot in front of another, and Marengo walks, slowly, carefully, straight into a tree trunk about two inches thick. No sound, but she tries to slip around it, only for a log to send her crashing to the floor of the forest. But, ever do her hands stay outward as directed, even with face planted in the dirt like it is, and a send, twinged with a fraction of pain, ** I.. I don't know why he left. He did. I.. had to come to him. Or try to. ** Or die trying.
Moonshade shakes her head in frustration. She obviously thinks this elf is dumb. "Get up and get over here." She waits for the elf to get to her.
Strongbow doesn't. He looses his arrow, shifting his aim to have it sink into the soft ground by her head, just missing her shoulder. Ah.. that was theraputic. And another arrow his fishes from his quiver, and sets it to his bow. A wordless send threatens, prods, and growls. It's so animalistic!!!
Redstar starts nudging her wolf after Marengo falls yet again so that Digger can guide her to more peaceful surroundings and those berry bushes.
Marengo doesn't know what that nearbye sound was, and so, doesn't really react much to it. Instead, she does her best to stand up, a quick dusting of everything, head cast down.. But, without being told, once more her hands go out, held as they her before, and she moves closer as ordered. Tripping on this or that, slowly getting closer and closer until she is fairly certain that from the sound of the voice, she is a respectful distance away.
Moonshade gets even more irritated. "I said come here!" She continues to stand with her hands on her hips. "How do you know your friend left the caverns?"
The growl intensifies as Moonshade's iiritation grows. Strongbow draws the arrow back to his cheek and waits more, propping Marnego with sharp growl filled and snarlish sends.
Marengo is getting creeped out, and her head lifts, though the eyes that remain shut do not open. Tears can be seen rimming the thick lashes and she moves even closer, her steps extremely hesitant. And, *BAM* she ends up falling, virtually at the feet Moonshade. ** S-s-sorry Lady... I.. **
Moonshade hears the title Marengo uses and becomes even angrier. Her voice raises to an uncommon volume. "Don't call me that! I am not your Lady!" She turns away from the Underworlder so she doesn't have to even look at her.
And the growl raises up at the end of Moonshade's words, and the send is thick and palletable, **Brainless underworlder.**
You locksend ** SHe's worse than Darkedge was. (annoyance) ** to Moonshade.
Pushing herself half upright, Marengo tilts her head up, a pained expression on her face, though her eyes remain closed, no sound, not a peep is uttered from her lips, ** I.. assumed.. by.. ** Her head drops,. ** I apologize... S-send me, the right way. And, I leave your house be. I.. must ahve come the wrong way. **
Moonshade speaks without turning around. She has regained some of her control, but her question comes through clenched teeth. "Are you sure this other elf left the Underworld? I will not have him running about our Holt."
Strongbow sneers at Marengo. STOOOOPED! **We can't have /her/ running about the holt unless we want the pack to kill her,** the archer sends. Of course, while that option sounds REALLY good, the chiefly wonder prolly won't like it much.
** I.. know he isn't in his CHamber, or that of his House, and they told me he went through the tunnel I came through. ** Its a sniveling send to be sure... But then Strongbow's sending makes Mierin pale - not that any can see it because of the blue blue dye. But she tries to look stoic and certain, ** If such is your decree... **
Moonshade keeps her back turned to the Underworlder in an attempt to remain as calm as possible. "We will have to make a decision on that." She closes her eyes and sends to her mate.
Moonshade locksends ** What do we do with her? She seems harmless, but I will -NOT- allow her to wander our Holt. Shall we escort her back to the tunnel? **
You locksend ** I am NOT going anywhere NEAR that stinking hole, and neither are you.** There's a pause as common sense and that once-chief mindset comes through. **SHe can stay in the visitor's den until Cutter can decide. -grumble- ** to Moonshade.
Strongbow growls as he replies to Moonshade privately, only to lower his bow, and pull the arrow from his bow and back into the quiver at hte end of it. A sharp snort follows as he glares at Marengo.
Marengo is obviously oblivious to the glares which are given her, or the fact that someone's back is turned to her. her expression doesn't change, she merely has her ehad facing where she was pretty certain Moonshade was.
Moonshade turns back to the elf at her feet. She points in the direction of the guest den. "You'll stay here with us in that den until our Chief decides what is best for you.
Strongbow's growls cease as Moonshade speaks, and his send is almost.... almost unwilling, **We'll get you blankets.** GAH! The THINGS he does.
Marengo doesn't even turn her head to look, no, she plans to follow, its what she does, ** Th-thank you. **
Moonshade notes that Marengo has not looked in the direction she gesture. "Open your eyes." She waits for the elf to follow this command as she has followed all the others.
Strongbow watches Marengo. Open eyes means Marengo can attack better, and so, on the defensive Strongbow goes.
There is a pained expression, one of a deep heartache, not physical agony. But, Marengo complies, and she blinks a few times, then leaves them open. They glitter like eyes should in the moonlight, but there is something about them, blank, free of comprehension. Eyes may be windows to the soul, but these windows have the shades drawn.
Moonshade waves her hands in front of Marengo's eyes. She waits a moment to see if there is any response. Seeing none, she drops her hand. "Stand up."
Moonshade locksends ** She's blind. I think there is little threat from her. **
Strongbow lifts a brow in understanding. At a locksend, the archer nods, and motions with his head toward a more clear path to walk on. Sweet, huh?
You locksend ** Like Redstar. I wouldn't put it past /them/ to have done this on purpose. ** to Moonshade.
Marengo pulls at her skirt quickly, so she doesn't stand on it and send herself falling back to the ground. Stone hurts, but it doesn't have pokey things like this ground does. ** Yes... ** A Lady wants to be inserted by the elfess, but she does good and doesn't send it.
Moonshade takes Marengo's arm into her hand. She doesn't grip too tightly. "How did you get those bruises and cuts? Have you been blind all your life or did someone blind you?" Her questions are blunt and to the point.
Strongbow steps to Marengo's other side, and nicely... sorta... grabs her other elbow to help Moonshade guide the undreworlder about.
Just please don't put me in a dark hole Marengo thinks to herself, but she moves as she's directed.
Moonshade guides Marengo to the guest den with Strongbow's assistance. "Are you going to answer my questions?"
Strongbow remains silent, leading the elfess. But he's waiting for the answer.
Questions, her brows dip down heavily, trying to recall. Stammering then, Marengo replies, ** I, have been unable to see for as long as I can really recall... There was a time, but ** She doesn't want to get into that. And then she sends,. ** I.. wish.. ** It falls apart, and a strange sound is heard as the elfess collapses to the ground. With no vocal chrods, she can not make proper sounds like laughing, or even crying, her sobs sound hollow, deeper.
Moonshade is momentarily at a loss. She tries to help the elf back to her feet so they can get her into the den.
Logfile from Two Moons - Strongbow.
Path
The path circumvents the holt proper, used mostly by the elves for travel to the woods behind the great Father tree. Overgrown, clinging vines crisscross the path, sometimes low to the ground causing you to cross over or under them, or push them out of the way outright as you walk. The ground here looks to have been worn down some with time and you see small bushes lie nearby, perhaps sheltering small game, such as ravitts or perhaps deer. You hear hushed noises as the holt slowly comes to life as elves and wolves awaken from the hot summer sleep.
Crashing through the woods, something big is lumbering, its way. The sound of heavy foot steps, then falling, a scramble to be upright, more footsteps and down again. Not yet visible to anyone or anything, the creature follows no path, save for that which is haphazardly felt for - and its not a very good one.
Of course there are scouts! This is Lostholt! Are you /daft/? And tonight, it's Strongbow. As the sound reaches his ears, he turns to look, inhaling the scents about him as he draws an arrow to fit onto the string of his bow. Food or enemy.... Which is it?
Taking an evening walk alone with her wolf, Redstar is out and about, following her nose to find specific berry bushes. Both young elf and wolf look up at the same time when they hear something coming alongthe apth. It takes very little for this not so little cub to urge the wolf to guide her off the path and hide.
Stumble, crash. No words spoken, but the wind shifts, and the scent, the undeniable scent of elf and deep caverns filled with darkness is carried to any elf upwind from where something is coming from. Through the bushes, a break in motion allows something to be seen, blue? But then its down again, as once more the elf crashes to the floor, getting wonderfully scratched up, but already once more preparing to rise awkwardly.
A deep growl comes from Strongbow's throat as the scent of the underworld reaches his nose. Near him, having been sitting with her mate, is Moonshade. She perks up as the archer growls. Without another thought, and only more growls, Strongbow takes aim on the smurfette.
Redstar peers out from her hiding, well she tries t at least, and listens to the on coming crashing of a much bigger being. From the wolf beside her, a low growl emits.
There's a pause in the haphazard steps of the elfess, did she hear something? Her head cocks right, then left, and then a careful step is taken forward, only for a branch beneath her feet to roll under the weight of her being. Her blue hands shoot up in the air as a counterbalance, but too late! Down on her rump the elfess goes, landing hard enough to bring tears to her eyes, but not a squeal of pain does she make.
Moonshade's eyes narrow as she too catches the smell of the intruder. She tests the water with a send. ** Who's there? ** A send flits from her to her mate as he stands ready to attack.
Ready to attack?OF COURSE he's ready to attack! Though his eyes remain on Marengo, his nose tests the air, searching for others.
Moonshade locksends ** I smell danger. But do not attack just yet. You don't want to kill unneccesarily. **
A louder growl comes from Digger while Redstar rests a hand on the she-wolf's back. She knows the others are there, so she stays put and waits.
No other scents cling to Marengo, and so, when the breeze blows again, it tells those searching the air for such - this one is all alone. The mind voice that sends, is an unknown to her, and so fear blazes in the back of her mind, and though she might be older than some, she is no adult (at least in the underworld) therefore, incapable of hiding her emotions, ** Forgive me, please. I mean no offense. I am Marengo servan... ** There's a healthy pause, and she starts anew, ** I am Lady Second of Juraido <> **
Moonshade growls softly. Her voice is harsh. "Stand up. Now! We need to see you." She rests her hands on her hips confrontationally.
Strongbow can actually remember the last Juraido that wandered through the holt. Mostly because she left a floater. Freakin' undrworlders! You're mother doesn't work here! So clean up after yourself!! Letting his mate 'speak' for him, Strongbow adds, **And keep your hands were they can be seen, dirt-digger.**
Redstar vaguely remembers other Underworld visiters, and though her adopted father is one, she's never thought of him as anything other than part of the tribe. Growing more curious by the moment, she leans up and shushes her growling wolf.
Commands, thats something she can handle, even if the minds that relay them are wholly unfamiliar. Putting her hands down on the ground, her hands fumble about, until her knuckles slam into a tree trunk, in the fashion of one blindly searching about for something to hold to. A gasp of breath and a wince, but using that trunk, Marengo stands to her full height, frame ultra willowy like all those in the Underworld. Except, there are some vast differences between her and others from below, her skin, is blue, every little bit that is visible, is a bright shade of blue. Funky, huh?
Moonshade does a double take as the blue elf stands, but she quickly recovers. "What do you want?" Her stance is firm and threatening. It's obvious she could attack easily.
Strongbow doesn't do a double take. He's surprise is wrapped up with his mate's. Instead, he merely growls more, and keeps a nice firm aim on Marengo's heart. She blinks funny, and she's dead.
Redstar slowly stands, and though she can't see what is going on, she can tell something has Moonshade and Strongbow a bit more.. surprised, than they should be. Still, she remains quiet, listening for now, though her wolf stpes back out onto the path.
Marengo slowly lifts her hands and arms to an outward - I ain't got nothing cause you'd see it if I did - position. Trembling, the leaves of some sprig of a bush rustle from her nervous motion. ** I.. I come looking.. for someone. Lord Elessardo. ** Yeah, she's real covert ain't she?
Moonshade eyes the blue elf further. "Why do you think he would be here?" Her tone is no less terse than before. She's still ready attack or direct her mate to attack at the slightest sign of danger.
Strongbow growls at the word Lord, and his upper lip curls back in cold cruel sneer. Strongbow and Lord... don't mix.
Redstar steps out along side of her wolf, not about to left without a guide, and to keep the she-wolf cam.
** I.. I ** Marengo's head hangs down, but like a perfect servant, she doe snot change the position of her body - one might wonder what the ring on her finger meant seeing her act like this, good ting she's not below. Uncertainly her sending picks up, ** I come trying to find him. Was told he left the tunnels, and... ** And like a moron, up and out she went.
Moonshade steps forward and stares at the foreigner. "So you assumed he came here? What would he be doing here?" Seeing the elfess cower, she steps up the intimidation. Her tolerance for Underworlders is as limited as her mate's.
Strongbow slips from the branch he was perched upon, his aim slipping as he does. But it lasts only an heartbeat before it returns to the underworld's heart... or the spot it should be, as the case may be. Elbow bent, and hand by his cheek, Strongbow has the arrow drawn fully, and the only indication of just how upset he is, comes in the form of a faint tremble along his forearm. Come on, smurf. Tell us you came for a tribemate. Go ahead. I dare you.
Intimidation works well on this elfess, for she trmbles even more, ** I.. I didn't come here on purpose. I don't even know where here is. I am sorry - I, umm.. if you, turn me the right way back to the tunnel.. I will go. I not meaning to upset and enter a House without permission. Please, I am sorry. I truly am. ** Her head bows even further, her chin touching her chest, her hair spilling about her. And yet, her arms remain outstretched, the muscles burning and twitching, sweat breaking out as she works to hold the ordered pose she has not yet been released from.
Redstar finally speaks up after all this time, "I think she means it. Sounds scared to me."
Moonshade looks at the stranger. "Come here!" She barks the order out. "And why did your friend leave the tunnels? Why would he be heading our way?" Though she may be shorter than Marengo, her personality is quite overwhelming.
Espeically when you couple to it Strongbow's growls. GRRRR GRRRRR GRRRR GRRRRRRR
Redstar stays well enough back she's not in the way, but she still stands where she can be seen.
** Yes Lady. ** ITs a habit formed sending, for only a Lady would command like this. Her hands do not come down, for that order was not given, and she is finely attuned to following orders - she's learned that lesson well. One foot in front of another, and Marengo walks, slowly, carefully, straight into a tree trunk about two inches thick. No sound, but she tries to slip around it, only for a log to send her crashing to the floor of the forest. But, ever do her hands stay outward as directed, even with face planted in the dirt like it is, and a send, twinged with a fraction of pain, ** I.. I don't know why he left. He did. I.. had to come to him. Or try to. ** Or die trying.
Moonshade shakes her head in frustration. She obviously thinks this elf is dumb. "Get up and get over here." She waits for the elf to get to her.
Strongbow doesn't. He looses his arrow, shifting his aim to have it sink into the soft ground by her head, just missing her shoulder. Ah.. that was theraputic. And another arrow his fishes from his quiver, and sets it to his bow. A wordless send threatens, prods, and growls. It's so animalistic!!!
Redstar starts nudging her wolf after Marengo falls yet again so that Digger can guide her to more peaceful surroundings and those berry bushes.
Marengo doesn't know what that nearbye sound was, and so, doesn't really react much to it. Instead, she does her best to stand up, a quick dusting of everything, head cast down.. But, without being told, once more her hands go out, held as they her before, and she moves closer as ordered. Tripping on this or that, slowly getting closer and closer until she is fairly certain that from the sound of the voice, she is a respectful distance away.
Moonshade gets even more irritated. "I said come here!" She continues to stand with her hands on her hips. "How do you know your friend left the caverns?"
The growl intensifies as Moonshade's iiritation grows. Strongbow draws the arrow back to his cheek and waits more, propping Marnego with sharp growl filled and snarlish sends.
Marengo is getting creeped out, and her head lifts, though the eyes that remain shut do not open. Tears can be seen rimming the thick lashes and she moves even closer, her steps extremely hesitant. And, *BAM* she ends up falling, virtually at the feet Moonshade. ** S-s-sorry Lady... I.. **
Moonshade hears the title Marengo uses and becomes even angrier. Her voice raises to an uncommon volume. "Don't call me that! I am not your Lady!" She turns away from the Underworlder so she doesn't have to even look at her.
And the growl raises up at the end of Moonshade's words, and the send is thick and palletable, **Brainless underworlder.**
You locksend ** SHe's worse than Darkedge was. (annoyance) ** to Moonshade.
Pushing herself half upright, Marengo tilts her head up, a pained expression on her face, though her eyes remain closed, no sound, not a peep is uttered from her lips, ** I.. assumed.. by.. ** Her head drops,. ** I apologize... S-send me, the right way. And, I leave your house be. I.. must ahve come the wrong way. **
Moonshade speaks without turning around. She has regained some of her control, but her question comes through clenched teeth. "Are you sure this other elf left the Underworld? I will not have him running about our Holt."
Strongbow sneers at Marengo. STOOOOPED! **We can't have /her/ running about the holt unless we want the pack to kill her,** the archer sends. Of course, while that option sounds REALLY good, the chiefly wonder prolly won't like it much.
** I.. know he isn't in his CHamber, or that of his House, and they told me he went through the tunnel I came through. ** Its a sniveling send to be sure... But then Strongbow's sending makes Mierin pale - not that any can see it because of the blue blue dye. But she tries to look stoic and certain, ** If such is your decree... **
Moonshade keeps her back turned to the Underworlder in an attempt to remain as calm as possible. "We will have to make a decision on that." She closes her eyes and sends to her mate.
Moonshade locksends ** What do we do with her? She seems harmless, but I will -NOT- allow her to wander our Holt. Shall we escort her back to the tunnel? **
You locksend ** I am NOT going anywhere NEAR that stinking hole, and neither are you.** There's a pause as common sense and that once-chief mindset comes through. **SHe can stay in the visitor's den until Cutter can decide. -grumble- ** to Moonshade.
Strongbow growls as he replies to Moonshade privately, only to lower his bow, and pull the arrow from his bow and back into the quiver at hte end of it. A sharp snort follows as he glares at Marengo.
Marengo is obviously oblivious to the glares which are given her, or the fact that someone's back is turned to her. her expression doesn't change, she merely has her ehad facing where she was pretty certain Moonshade was.
Moonshade turns back to the elf at her feet. She points in the direction of the guest den. "You'll stay here with us in that den until our Chief decides what is best for you.
Strongbow's growls cease as Moonshade speaks, and his send is almost.... almost unwilling, **We'll get you blankets.** GAH! The THINGS he does.
Marengo doesn't even turn her head to look, no, she plans to follow, its what she does, ** Th-thank you. **
Moonshade notes that Marengo has not looked in the direction she gesture. "Open your eyes." She waits for the elf to follow this command as she has followed all the others.
Strongbow watches Marengo. Open eyes means Marengo can attack better, and so, on the defensive Strongbow goes.
There is a pained expression, one of a deep heartache, not physical agony. But, Marengo complies, and she blinks a few times, then leaves them open. They glitter like eyes should in the moonlight, but there is something about them, blank, free of comprehension. Eyes may be windows to the soul, but these windows have the shades drawn.
Moonshade waves her hands in front of Marengo's eyes. She waits a moment to see if there is any response. Seeing none, she drops her hand. "Stand up."
Moonshade locksends ** She's blind. I think there is little threat from her. **
Strongbow lifts a brow in understanding. At a locksend, the archer nods, and motions with his head toward a more clear path to walk on. Sweet, huh?
You locksend ** Like Redstar. I wouldn't put it past /them/ to have done this on purpose. ** to Moonshade.
Marengo pulls at her skirt quickly, so she doesn't stand on it and send herself falling back to the ground. Stone hurts, but it doesn't have pokey things like this ground does. ** Yes... ** A Lady wants to be inserted by the elfess, but she does good and doesn't send it.
Moonshade takes Marengo's arm into her hand. She doesn't grip too tightly. "How did you get those bruises and cuts? Have you been blind all your life or did someone blind you?" Her questions are blunt and to the point.
Strongbow steps to Marengo's other side, and nicely... sorta... grabs her other elbow to help Moonshade guide the undreworlder about.
Just please don't put me in a dark hole Marengo thinks to herself, but she moves as she's directed.
Moonshade guides Marengo to the guest den with Strongbow's assistance. "Are you going to answer my questions?"
Strongbow remains silent, leading the elfess. But he's waiting for the answer.
Questions, her brows dip down heavily, trying to recall. Stammering then, Marengo replies, ** I, have been unable to see for as long as I can really recall... There was a time, but ** She doesn't want to get into that. And then she sends,. ** I.. wish.. ** It falls apart, and a strange sound is heard as the elfess collapses to the ground. With no vocal chrods, she can not make proper sounds like laughing, or even crying, her sobs sound hollow, deeper.
Moonshade is momentarily at a loss. She tries to help the elf back to her feet so they can get her into the den.
Friday, September 24, 1999
The Underworld and Lostholt Collide
**As copied from The Underworld Website. The Strongbow seen in this log was NOT played by myself, but is a part of the story of the character that I continued on.**
Date: 1999-09-24
Location: Outside of the Underworld - Deep Forest
Logged by: Rhentagoth [Garado]
Submitted By: Andrew Gray
Players involved: Rhentagoth [Garado]
Rydia [Garado]
Naeblis [Garado]
Kinhammer [Troll]
Strongbow [Lostholt]
Ember [Lostholt]
Skywise [Lostholt]
Summary: The Underworld meets representatives from Lostholt with peaceful intentions to discuss trade.
Deep Forest
Deep within the southern portion of a nameless forest, you see amonolithic mountain rise out of its evergreen carpet into the sky. The top ofthe mountain is flattened and its surface black. The large thing is a hill.
To the north a small, seldom used trail winds into the bowed depthsleading to an unseen destination. Beneath ones feet is a dark, ash filled soilwhich gleams with red and white quartz. There is something eerie about thequiet stillness.
Contents:NightfallObvious exits:Trail North
Rhentagoth steps down from the hill. He takes a deep breath, ** Very well, Ishall announce our presence. **
Rydia folds her hands into her lap, watching the events as they unfold... whata good dog...
Naeblis shifts his position slightly, and takes care to keep his crossbowpointed out towards the forest.
Kinhammer looks about nervously, his metal plates glinting slightly. He cradlesthe hammer in two hands like an old friend.
Nevardes looks around the area, alert and hands to the daggers on his waist.
Rhentagoth locksends, to Strongbow, Ember, Skywise: Rhentagoth's send blanketsthe area, seeking all the elves he can find. ** Greetings. I am Lord Rhentagothof Garado. I stand on the edge of your land. I seek an audience. **
Strongbow has arrived.
Ember has arrived.
You sense in a locksend to Ember, Skywise, Rhentagoth: Strongbow is the firsttoanswer, his send not particularly accomodating. ** What do you want,wormworlder? **
Skywise has arrived.
Ember was summoned some minutes earlier by scouts about the perimeter. Shesteps warily into the clearing, her expression matching Strongbow's send. **Why have you come here? **
Naeblis waits quietly, keeping the crossbow carefully pointed away from thewolfrider.
Having been nearby, Strongbow's already on site, eyes searching for theUnderworld party. Now, are they in plain sight? Hidden? His bow is held inhand, the other near his quiver of arrows. Just in case. Those brown eyes areintent as ever.
Rydia with a calm aura about her, stands her ground and dose not speak. She iscertainly not the strongest politicaly or physicaly here...
Rhentagoth stands with his arms at his sides, his hood drawn up around his faceto protect him from the harsh light. He bows formally, right arm folded acrosshis stomach, left arm straight at his side, ** Greetings, surface Cousins.Thank you for meeting my companions and I. **
Kinhammer watches the smaller elf warily, his hands tightening around thehammer.
Ember's hand hovers not far from the pummel of her sword. Her jaw thrustsforward as she examines the group. ** What do you want? ** she repeats.
Nevardes is standing towards the back of the group. He's certainly armed, buthe removes his hands from the daggers and clasps them in front of him, thecloak covering all.
Skywise drops from a nearly bare tree branch, his hand automatically droppingto the hilt of his own sword. He doesn't bother to send, as Ember spoke plainlyenough.
Rhentagoth smiles slightly, ** We wish to trade with you. Would you permit usto show you what we have? **
No need for Strongbow to say much more just yet. Not until he knows more, atleast. His eyes flash from Underworlder to Underworlder before he pauses atRhentagoth's send, upper lip curling. No trust here. None whatsoever. Not fromhim.
Skywise narrows his eyes. ** What do you want in return for your goods...elvesto be your slaves? <> **
Ember snorts softly. She raises her head. ** Trade? ** She sounds a mightskeptical. ** What do you have to trade? ** Apparently, she agrees with hertribesmates.
Rhentagoth looks to Skywise, a look of almost pain crossing his features. Heshakes his head slowly, ** No, we do not seek slaves. That was ... anunfortunate part of our collective past. I had hoped we could, if not forget,then at least forgive the mistakes of others. **
Rydia steps foward slightly... just enough not to offend their hosts. ** Thepast is washed away by the passing of time. We have suffered greatly from thecrimes made against the surface. **
Rhentagoth glances at Rydia, then back to the wolfriders.
Nevardes watches the proceedings carefully, glancing towards each of thewolfriders.
Naeblis looks at the other Underworlders, but remains silent. If there is aneed to speak, he will make his opinions known. This is the delegation ofanother.
Ember frowns. She crosses her arms over her chest. ** Trust is earned,Underworlder. Not given. ** Her jaw thrusts out. ** What exactly did you havein mind to do here? What goods could you have brought? **
Strongbow's free hand slices through the air quickly at Rhentagoth's send, inspite of its truthfulness. ** Won't be forgotten, even by us. Forgiveness maycome when you can prove yourselves. ** Key word being 'may.' The stern archerglares at Rydia, his head shaking back and forth once. The past is notnecessarily washed away by the passing of time, not in all cases. ** Tell mehow you've suffered from your own crimes. ** Ember's send and stance earns aslight nod from Strongbow. Good.
Rhentagoth glances at Rydia again, this time his eyes narrowing slightly.
Naeblis looks directly at StrongBow. ** And those of us who had no hand in it?You destroy the whole to rid of part? **
Skywise steps back, away from Rydia's advance, his hand never straying from hissword. ** Tell that to Treestump, who stayed with you for a time. **
Rhentagoth locksends ** We tred with caution, young Jaersendo. Your words maysing with truth, but it is best to save them for more ... amiable times. ** toRydia.
Rydia sends calmly, not feeling threatened at all by this ** To be shuned fromthose whom we may benefit from? Whom can do the same from us? Tis a pity. **She then cringes slightly at something not seen, forcing herself to take a fewsteps back.
Rhentagoth turns to Skywise, arching a delicate eyebrow.
Rhentagoth locksends ** It means nothing that the once-Lord responcible forthat is now gone? ** to Skywise.
Strongbow casts a finger Naeblis' way, eyes narrowed and still filled withsuspicion. ** Even in doing nothing, you still played your part. You allowed itto happen. ** Adding to Skywise's send, he adds, ** Flashfire, too. Youmuck-grubbing curs took a -cub- slave. **
Ember scowls. ** We have never benefited from you before. ** Her send is hard.** Why should we think we can now? **
Nevardes glances over at Rydia's actions, watching her carefully. His face,deeply hidden in shadow in the hood, darkens at this.
Rydia brings her hands to her head, shaking it softly at the bickering broughtforth by her...
Skywise turns quicksilver eyes to Rhentagoth, a frown deepening the linebetween his brows. ** All that has come from you is harm. What of the lass<![]()
> that stayed with us for a time some turns ago, but was intruth ruled by the one that she called mate. She is dead now, and at one ofyour hands. <![]()
> **
Naeblis shakes his head slightly. ** The Lady Erianvel is well, ere last I sawher. She rules the House Elessardo and sits upon the Council I serve. **
Rhentagoth arches an eyebrow and nods to Naeblis' words, ** She lives quitewell in the halls of the Underworld. **
Kinhammer shifts his position slightly, taking pains not to move too quickly.No need to offend those already so obviously hostile.
Rhentagoth turns to Kinhammer, and says, his voice soft, "Have the others putdown their burdens, Kinhammer."
Nevardes regards Skywise, arching a brow at their beliefs.
Rydia locksends ** I knew only pain would come from this... ** to Naeblis.
Kinhammer nods quickly, and walks to the group of nervous trolls. "Set thosedown and stand quiet. Those who disobey will face the wrath of the Mistress."
Ember's eyes flicker to the troll and his companions. And back to Rhentagoth.Her expression doesn't change. ** How do we know this isn't a trick,Underworlder? I've seen tactics like this before. **
** Alive or dead, she is no longer who she was if she stays amongst yourmindsick numbers. ** Strongbow's send nearly hisses at those gathered, thoughhis bow lowers by a fraction. If the Underworlders are still talking and notcausing trouble, perhaps there's something to their words. It'll have to besomeone else who notes that, however.
Rydia looks over at Naeblis, trying to keep her calm...need to keep that calmhere.
Rhentagoth turns to Ember, ** You have my word that our intentions arepeaceful. **
Skywise turns his gaze toward Ember a moment, obviously struggling with thatone...Sending doesn't lie, but Clearbrook told all of the Lostholters of thedeath of Jaylorra. He licks his lips. ** Prove it. **
Naeblis straightens noticably. ** I am the Lord of the House Juraido. I servethe Council. Hence, I serve the will of the Lady Elessardo, in part. Is that atrick then? I send it to you now? How could I lie? Erianvel lives. **
Nevardes nods. ** Lady Erianvel, previously known as Jaylorra, is alive andwell. **
Ember glances at her two companions, silent sends flickering back and forth.Her brows remain creased.
Kinhammer moves back forward, standing near Rhentagoth, and watching thesurface elves cautiously.
Strongbow scowls openly. ** Your titles mean nothing to us. ** Still tense, hewon't see a finger so much as even laid upon one of his tribe. ** You say yourintentions are peaceful. What have you to trade, then. ** Not a question, butmore of a demand.
Rhentagoth steps aside, motioning to the covered packages on the ground, ** Itis not much, but I hope you will find usefullness enough in our goods to trade.**
Even behind the mask, Naeblis's eyes narrow. The House mean nothing? Thesesurface dwellers speak insults as though they were water! He shakes his headslightly and remains still. To break the peace is not his decision.
Ember dares to take a step closer, her hand drifting back to the hilt of herweapon once more. ** Show me. ** She is blunt, equally demanding.
Naeblis looks at Rhentagoth and then at the trolls.
Nevardes smiles a bit.
Rhentagoth moves to one of the packages and opens it. Revealed is a smallselection of goods: Mushrooms, a small metal dagger, a cask of wine, a shapedstone ring. Rhentagoth sends, ** This is a selection of what we offer. **
Ember's eyes narrow as she gives the goods a brief once-over glance. ** Andwhat would you want in return? <> **
Strongbow remains at Ember's side, as much to help ensure her safety as topresent a unified front, if you will. He peers down at the package, not toocertain whether any of that would be of any worth to them. The distinctsensation of a send surfaces from his mind, but Ember's question results in itfading away again.
Rhentagoth looks to Nevardes, then to Ember, ** In return, I would ask leave totake a few of your trees to the Underworld. As well, I would like a selectionof furs, leathers, and dyes. **
** For trinkets? Will any of that keep us warm in the winter? ** Skywise's sendis full of mockery, and his face isn't far from it. ** You're asking somethingfor nothing. **
Strongbow's nostrils expand slightly at Rhentagoth's first request. ** Trees?Not from here. Not from our territory. ** He's not the chief, but you wouldn'tknow that from his send. ** The dagger may be useful for a cub, but that'sabout it. **
Rhentagoth ahs, he moves to another package, ** If that is what you wouldprefer, surface Cousin... ** He opens it, revealing a section of woven cloth,** We have also brought cloth and pottery, things of a bit more use. **
Rhentagoth looks to Strongbow, tilting his head to the side. ** Do you wishweapons, Surface Cousin? **
Skywise growls, his breath steaming into the colder air. "We are no cousins ofyours. We have everything we need, it's you that's come begging."
Rhentagoth reaches behind him, drawing forth the Sword of Garado slowly andwithout agression, then he holds the four foot blade lightly across his palms,** A weapon like this, perhaps? **
Ember grunts softly. ** A weapon like that is too large for one of us to wieldeffectively. ** she says bluntly.
Rydia tenses a little bit at Rhentagoth's actions, uncertian on how the surfaceelves would take it, or the offer.
Strongbow shakes his head slowly at Rhentagoth, knuckles whitening around hisbow as he begins to draw the sword, relaxing again as he sees no hostile intentfrom the taller elf. ** I have no use for a thing like that. ** Of course,someone else just might. He doesn't know. But something else is on his mind. **What do you need our items for? **
Naeblis slides a bolt from his quiver and holds it out for inspection. The headis metal and barbed. ** Perhaps something with which to hunt game? **
Rhentagoth nods and resheathes the large sword, ** Of course, it would be.Though we have other weapons more suitable for you, if you so wish it. ** Heturns to Strongbow, ** We require supplies which are not readibly available inthe Underworld. I took this as an opportunity to take the first step towardsremoving the hostility between our peoples. **
Ember steps forward, taking her position as chief in front of her tribe. **What exactly do you want the trees for? ** she asks.
Strongbow shakes his head once again at Naeblis' bolt. ** Good if you want toleave no game behind. ** he snorts, more than content to use his own arrows.Glancing towards Rhentagoth again, he taps a foot on the ground withimpatience. Trade may be the first step, but it'll take considerably morebefore the Underworld will be trusted.
Nevardes glances over to Rhentagoth.
Nevardes locksends ** Perhaps fallen trees would work as well? Perhaps they'dbe willing to part with those easier? ** to Rhentagoth.
Rhentagoth locksends ** A good suggestion, I will present it. ** to Nevardes.
Rydia finaly breaks down and has a seat on the hill, still watching over theevents going on. Do not worry... she in nimble enough to get up in a hurry- ifthat will be the case.
Rhentagoth frowns slightly, ** Coverings for our chambers, handles for tools,things of this nature. Perhaps, if you are against the cutting of the trees, wemight be permitted to take fallen trees instead? **
Kinhammer looks around at the bare trees, perhaps looking for others to watch.
Skywise lets his hand fall from the hilt of his sword, tilting his head inthought. ** May I see the cloth? ** but he doesn't want to get too close. Hedoesn't trust any of you that much.
Naeblis slips the bolt back into the quiver. ** Of course. How silly of me tooffer something to you. ** He turns away from Strongbow, and looks atrhentagoth, shaking his head.
Rhentagoth nods, ** Certainly. ** He moves to the package and takes from it abolt of cloth. He goes back to Skywise, holding it out for him to examine. Itis fine, woven, and looks to be rather warm.
Naeblis locksends ** Are all the surface dwellers so rude? ** to Rhentagoth.
Ember crosses her arms again. ** We don't cut the trees. ** she replies. ** Theonly trees /anyone/ may use are those already dead. ** She flicks Naeblis adark glance at his sarcasm and turns away to watch Rhentagoth's dealings withthe stargazer.
Rhentagoth locksends ** They do not seem to believe that we come in peace. I donot blame them, but your restraint does you credit, young Lord. ** to Naeblis.
The Underworlder with the bolt is the lucky recipient of a harsh glare fromStrongbow, though nothing is said in response. Now shouldering his bow, hecrosses his arms over his chest and nods slightly at Ember's send. That's a bitof approval, there.
Rhentagoth nods, ** May we have your leave, then, to take a few dead trees withus, in exchange for cloth? It seems most useful for you. We may also show you alarger variety of weapons, which I am sure would be even more useful thancloth. **
Skywise takes the bolt gingerly, as though it might bite, but does examine itclosely, running his fingers over the fabric, and even going so far as to sniffat it. ** It wouldn't hold up against a good bramble thicket. ** he sendsfinally, honest at least.
Rydia locksends ** Please end this before they take out their aggressions... **to Rhentagoth.
Nevardes locksends ** Lord Goumando has readied two additional trolls if weneed to bring additional quantities of cloth, weapons, or whatever, assuming wehave the material to bring up. ** to Rhentagoth.
Rydia shifts a little in her spot, feeling more and more uncertian of thiswhole ordeal as time passes...
Rhentagoth locksends ** Indeed. It is possible that this may be required, butwe shall see. ** to Nevardes.
Ember's expression remains dark. ** I will consider it. ** she says after along moment. It's a small concession perhaps, but there are still questions tobe answered. ** What other weapons? And what besides cloth and weapons andtrinkets? **
Rhentagoth locksends ** I doubt they would attack us. They would be foolish totry. ** to Rydia.
Skywise smiles slightly. ** You might do better to trade with the Sun Folk. Ifyou can get them to trust you any further than we do. This cloth would be moreto their liking, and the jewelry as well. **
Rhentagoth turns to Nevardes, ** If you would be so good as to show what youhave brought, Nevardes? **
Rhentagoth smiles as well, bowing slightly to Skywise, ** Your suggestion isnoted, I will bring it before the Council when next we meet. **
Nevardes looks over at Ember and nods. ** We have daggers and shorter swords.** He reaches under his outer cloak and unhitches a 'short sword' (to theUWers) in it's scabbard, and ho
Nevardes ..and holds it out for her inspection.
Naeblis whirls on Rhentagoth, gesturing furiously.
Naeblis locksends ** We made peace with the Sun Folk. They at least had thedecency to listen without insults. ** to Rhentagoth.
Strongbow still doesn't like this very much. But..so long as no harm comes toanyone, he might be fine with this. But as Naeblis spins, he withdraws his bowagain..prepared, just in case something's up.
Rhentagoth arches an eyebrow at Naeblis.
Rydia slowly stands to her feet, surprised at Naeblis' sudden move... oh my,this cannot be good.
Ember approaches Nevardes cautiously to look at the blade. She runs a lightfinger along it. It's a decent length, though it would definitely be considereda longsword for a wolfelf. "Hmph." she snorts softly. ** Perhaps... May Isee--? ** Her head snaps around to Naeblis' gesturing and she frows,immediately backing away.
Rhentagoth holds up a hand to calm Naeblis' frantic gestures.
Naeblis shakes his head, and takes the bolt from his crossbow. He places thebolt back into the quiver, and releases the tension from the arms slowly.
Nevardes blinks a moment as Ember snaps her head, halfway in the motion ofhanding her the sword, and follows her gaze to Naeblis.
Skywise locksends ** We won't attack you without provocation. We have morereason than you to be wary. ** to Naeblis.
Rhentagoth locksends ** They had more cause to loathe us, indeed, and carriedthemselves well. These ... elves, however, mate with wolves and live theirlives as such. Take their barbs in stride, for restraint does you credit, whileoutbursts can only injure our cause. I had thought you would have learned fromRydia's speach earlier. ** to Naeblis.
Naeblis locksends to Skywise, Naeblis's locksend tingles like the sharp edge ofa thunderstorm. ** We made peace with the Sun Folk. They at least had thedecency to listen without insults. **
Skywise forces himself to stay away from Ember. She'll only snap if he tries toprotect her anyway, chief pro tem or not. Instead he circles around, inspectingNaeblis as the curiosity he is.
Strongbow points at Naeblis, then Rhentagoth. ** What are you two sharing? **he prompts, not at all liking their apparent privacy in a situation like this.
Ember's hand has drifted back to her sword. Her send is sharp. ** What's goingon? **
Rhentagoth looks to Strongbow and Ember, then sends to them both.
Rhentagoth locksends, to Strongbow, Ember: ** Forgive the privacy again, butyoung Lord Naeblis bristles at your insults. We come to you in peace and withthe hope of friendship. May I ask, then, that you save your barbs? They canonly agrivate wounds best left to heal. **
Rhentagoth smiles slightly, his send gentle.
Ember regards Naeblis for a long moment. Her lips press together and she nodsslowly to Rhentagoth.
Ember locksends, to Strongbow, Skywise, Rhentagoth: ** Honor his request. Nomore insults. We don't want to fight. **
Rhentagoth bows again, smiling, ** My thanks. **
Ember nods sharply once more. She sends openly. ** I would like to see thearrows again. Please. **
Skywise bridles, but his hand slowly drops from his sword, and he's about anarm's length from Naeblis, eyes fixed to the mask. ** Why hide behind the mask?I mean no insult, but there is little to trust in an unyielding piece of stone.**
Nevardes blinks again, looking between Rhentagoth, Naebls, and Ember. He notesher send and nods, reattaching the sword to his side.
Strongbow locksends, to Ember, Skywise, Rhentagoth: ** <> As youwish. **
Skywise locksends, to Strongbow, Ember, Rhentagoth: ** ...<> **
Rhentagoth locksends, to Nevardes, Naeblis, Rydia: ** Our surface Cousins willleave off their insults in the interests of peace. **
Naeblis peers at Ember a moment, and then draws a bolt from the quiver. Heextends it to her, holding the barbed point towards himself.
Rydia runs a finger down her own mask, noting how fearsome the natives take itto be...
Strongbow shoulders his bow again, perhaps as relaxed as he'll be for now,which isn't saying a whole lot. Suspicious eyes still travel from one elf toanother, then to the trolls present. He finds Skywise's question to be a goodone. ** Aye. Why hide your faces? **
Naeblis looks at Skywise. ** I had an experience with the daystar once... ** Hepushes the sleeve of the cloak and the tunic beneath it up, revealing a ring ofburnt scar tissue. ** I found it most unpleasant. Does that answer yourquestion? **
Skywise tilts his head away from Ember, and unconscious showing of throat, andhe's still looking at Naeblis. Not afraid, but certainly not trusting, either.A certain morbid fascination creeps over his features.
Rhentagoth hmms, ** A good question, Archer. Partly for protection, though alsoas a symbol of our Houses. All of the Lords have a mask to represent for whomthey stand. **
Rydia calls out to help clarify, ** The daystar burn us... harms us like aknife would to you. **
Nevardes turns to Skywise, and attempts to change the subject. ** Would youperhaps be interested in some of the heavier cloth our cloaks are made out of?I don't believe we have any bolts of it with us - it is too bulky and heavy forsomething we weren't sure if you would want, but some can be brought upquickly. **
Ember nods. ** That would explain it. ** she says grudgingly. She risks a steptowards Naeblis to look at the arrow head.
Naeblis quickly tugs the tunic back into place, and lets the cloak drop backinto place. ** I prefer not to wear such reminders on my face as I do on mywrists. **
Naeblis extends it further out, fletchings first. No sense in making her reach.
Strongbow's sole answer is the nodding of his head in response to theexplanations from the Underworlders, at least somewhat content with it. If theychoose to hide beneath the earth, it only makes sense for the light to harmthem. Something worth keeping in mind, too. Still, none of the items theUnderworlders offer seem to catch his eye, though perhaps he just hasn't seenanything that would, yet. Taking a couple steps back, he waits.
Naeblis locksends ** Perhaps the pottery? ** to Rhentagoth.
Rhentagoth nods to Naeblis, ** Indeed, would you be so good as to present it,Lord Naeblis? **
Rhentagoth looks at Strongbow, thinks a moment, and then sends to him.
Ember runs her finger along the arrow as she did the blade. She looks at thearrowhead and nods. ** It is possible, ** she concedes ** that we may be ableto reach an agreement. ** She looks at the Underworlders, addressingRhentagoth, whom she sees as chief. ** Do you intend to make camp in our holtor will you stay in the caves? **
Rhentagoth locksends ** You mentioned ... a child? Flashfire? Is the childwell? ** to Strongbow.
Naeblis leaves the bolt in Ember's hands and makes a series of curt motions tothe trolls behind him.
Skywise doesn't have any real interest in the cloth. Moonshade usually workswonders with the leathers brought in. But he's always too willing to holdgrudges, and maybe it's time to change that. Can't keep enemies on all borders,at any rate. ** Is there anything else at all? ** he asks Nevardes. ** That youmight have brought to trade..? **
Rhentagoth blinks, pulling his attention from Strongbow to Ember, ** You woudpermit us to stay within your holt? **
The trolls scurry forth, bringing a small assortment of pottery. Pitchers,bowls, jugs, and plates, all of excellent make.
Nevardes thinks. ** The cloth, daggers, swords, several kinds of wine, themushrooms... ** He looks at Rhentagoth to see if he's forgotten something...
Strongbow's eyes settle upon Rhentagoth, and he sends privately.
Rhentagoth nods in agreement with Nevardes. Except for different variations ofthe goods, he has gotten it correct.
Strongbow locksends ** He is well.. (No thanks to any of you, he wants to say.He wants to say it badly, but holds the harsh comment in) Fortunately. He wasbut a cub when he was your slave. ** to Rhentagoth.
Ember regards Rhentagoth neutrally. ** I was merely interested in yourintentions. ** She is honest. ** I am not convinced it would be safe for eitherof our people for you to remain within our borders for long. **
Rhentagoth shakes his head, his blue eyes on the archers', sending privately.
Rhentagoth locksends to Strongbow, Rhentagoth sends with sadness, ** He wasnever my slave. I am sorry, for I did not know that they had taken children. Iwas, at the time, withdrawn. I take no part in the harming of children, norwould I permit it to happen. **
Ember glances at Strongbow. She then turns back to Rhentagoth, clearlyexpecting some kind of acknowledgement.
Rhentagoth looks back to Ember, ** If you would permit us, we will make our ...camp here, on the very edge of your territory. **
Ember looks about the clearing. She nods firmly. ** Aye. Here will be fine. **She looks directly into Rhentagoth's face and eyes, being the alpha wolf shehas been raised to be. ** We will have scouts and sentries about. Do not enterthe holt without advising them. Please. **
Ember's 'Please' is not a begging. It's a courtesy.
Rhentagoth nods his head, bowing formally. ** It will be as you say. **
Rhentagoth senses in a locksend, Strongbow has little to offer in responce,save a mental nod and a few words. ** I understand. At least..not all of youseem the same. **
Naeblis turns to the trolls. "Make camp. Set the tents and shades well. Whenyou are finished, you will return to me for instructions."
Rhentagoth nods to Strongbow, bowing to him as well.
Kinhammer watches the other trolls scuttle to obey the orders of the LordJuraido a moment, and then turns to watch the surface elves once more.
Rhentagoth locksends ** I thank you for your kindness. ** to Strongbow.
Ember nods, satisfied. ** Then, I will inform the tribe of your intention totrade. And you and I can sit to discuss the matter of the trees. ** She stilladdresses Rhentagoth.
Strongbow locksends ** <> ** to Rhentagoth.
Rhentagoth nods again, ** So be it. Though, a minor point, ** He smilesslightly, ** How shall we address you? **
Ember shrugs. ** I am called Ember. I act as chieftess here. **
Rhentagoth nods, ** Very well, Chieftess Ember. **
Strongbow trusts Ember to handle things well enough here, for the time being -enough that he puts a bit more space between himself and the visiting group andthe current Lostholt chieftess. Still, though, he remains silent and observant.
Ember nods again. Her lips purse slightly. ** You are called Rhentagoth? ** Shetries to make sure she has the name correct.
Rhentagoth nods his head, ** Lord Rhentagoth, though you may call me Rhentagothif you prefer. **
Ember sends ** Lord Rhentagoth, then. ** she agrees. ** Fine. **
Naeblis looks at Skywise.
Skywise returns Naeblis' look with a cool steady gaze of his own. Almost as ifto ask just what he's looking for.
Rydia sits back down, having regained her sense of security. Both sides seem tobe better now, more trusting than before.
Rhentagoth looks to Ember, then to the other Wolfriders, ** I believe we willtake food now. You are welcome to join us, though our food may be strange toyou. ** He smiles.
Naeblis locksends ** You wish to see the faces we bear? It is easier withoutthe light of the daystar. Perhaps later? ** to Skywise.
Ember shakes her head. ** No. Thank you, though. I, for one, have eatenalready. **
Skywise locksends ** Count on it. I don't trust a mask. Much easier to hide howone truly feels behind a mask, wouldn't you say? <> ** toNaeblis.
Strongbow imagines their own food must be rather strange to the Underworldersas well. So, they're even in that respect. ** I've got my own. ** he answers,managing to avoid a terribly blunt 'no.'
Nevardes shrugs, guessing Skywise didn't like what he had to say, and turnstowards Rhentagoth again.
Nevardes locksends ** These surface dwellers are quite rude, Lord. ** toRhentagoth.
Skywise is much more fascinated by a locksend that was directed his way, thoughhe doesn't completely ignore Nevardes, reaching out a hand slowly to touch theedge of his cloak. Hmmm, interesting.
Rhentagoth locksends ** This is true, but notice how they try, if onlyslightly, not to offend us. I take this to be a good sign. ** to Nevardes.
Naeblis locksends to Skywise, Naeblis's send seems ambivalent. ** It can help,with those who know you little. Those who know you well are not fooled soeasily. Perhaps in time, you will not notice the masks. **
Nevardes blinks at Skywise, but stands there, letting Skywise feel the cloth.
Skywise lets go and backs away, wolfy inspection all done. Maybe Moonshade canfind a use for it.
Rydia closes her eyes behind her mask, just taking the noises of the surfaceworld... the animals... the wind... the trees. All is not new to her, but ithas been a few turns since she last heard anything from above.
Naeblis locksends ** After all... It is not the masks we ask you to trust, butus, and that is far more difficult, I would think. ** to Skywise.
Nevardes nods to Skywise. ** Do you want some of the heavier cloth brought upfor tomorrow? **
Naeblis looks then at the archer. ** And you? Perhaps you wish to see uswithout the masks as well? **
Ember turns and nods to her tribe. ** Send for me, Lord Rhentagoth, if you needanything. ** And, she heads back in towards the holt.
Rhentagoth bows formally to Ember as she walks away, ** My thanks, ChieftessEmber. **
Ember locksends ** You're welcome. ** to Rhentagoth.
Rhentagoth smiles slightly to a send, bowing again.
Strongbow turns abruptly and paces back towards the inner parts of the holt,sharing something with Ember and Skywise as he goes. At Naeblis' send, hepauses and sends. ** Later. The hunt calls. ** The Wolfriders could hear it -not the Underworlders, though. Not quite loud enough for their ears. With that,he disappears into the forest.
Skywise shrugs and starts to go, quite ready to follow Ember. But not, mindyou, at the expense of turning his back. He backs away some distance beforetaking to the trees, running effortlessly along snow-laden branches withoutdisturbing hardly a snowflake.
Rhentagoth turns to the assembled Underworlders, ** Very well, we shall stayfor a time to complete our business. ** With that, he enters in to one of thealready erected tents.
Nevardes mmms as Skywise runs off without an answer, shrugs, and turns for oneof the tents as well.
Rydia snaps back to attention, getting up from her spot, feeling fine now. Shemakes her way down the hill over to the tents, but dose not enter one.
Strongbow heads along the northern trail to Lost Holt.
Naeblis stands for a moment in the snow, watching after the three beforeentering the tent marked with the symbol of his House.
Ember heads along the northern trail to Lost Holt.
Skywise heads along the northern trail to Lost Holt.
Rydia kneels down before her tent and starts to examine the white stuff on theground... hmmm... it's cold... colder than water... and it can be shaped? Howodd... she smiles behind her mask at the powder, playing with it.
Kinhammer watches the trolls erect another tent, and the elf at play beforebeginning to patrol the exterior of the camp.
Date: 1999-09-24
Location: Outside of the Underworld - Deep Forest
Logged by: Rhentagoth [Garado]
Submitted By: Andrew Gray
Players involved: Rhentagoth [Garado]
Rydia [Garado]
Naeblis [Garado]
Kinhammer [Troll]
Strongbow [Lostholt]
Ember [Lostholt]
Skywise [Lostholt]
Summary: The Underworld meets representatives from Lostholt with peaceful intentions to discuss trade.
Deep Forest
Deep within the southern portion of a nameless forest, you see amonolithic mountain rise out of its evergreen carpet into the sky. The top ofthe mountain is flattened and its surface black. The large thing is a hill.
To the north a small, seldom used trail winds into the bowed depthsleading to an unseen destination. Beneath ones feet is a dark, ash filled soilwhich gleams with red and white quartz. There is something eerie about thequiet stillness.
Contents:NightfallObvious exits:Trail North
Rhentagoth steps down from the hill. He takes a deep breath, ** Very well, Ishall announce our presence. **
Rydia folds her hands into her lap, watching the events as they unfold... whata good dog...
Naeblis shifts his position slightly, and takes care to keep his crossbowpointed out towards the forest.
Kinhammer looks about nervously, his metal plates glinting slightly. He cradlesthe hammer in two hands like an old friend.
Nevardes looks around the area, alert and hands to the daggers on his waist.
Rhentagoth locksends, to Strongbow, Ember, Skywise: Rhentagoth's send blanketsthe area, seeking all the elves he can find. ** Greetings. I am Lord Rhentagothof Garado. I stand on the edge of your land. I seek an audience. **
Strongbow has arrived.
Ember has arrived.
You sense in a locksend to Ember, Skywise, Rhentagoth: Strongbow is the firsttoanswer, his send not particularly accomodating. ** What do you want,wormworlder? **
Skywise has arrived.
Ember was summoned some minutes earlier by scouts about the perimeter. Shesteps warily into the clearing, her expression matching Strongbow's send. **Why have you come here? **
Naeblis waits quietly, keeping the crossbow carefully pointed away from thewolfrider.
Having been nearby, Strongbow's already on site, eyes searching for theUnderworld party. Now, are they in plain sight? Hidden? His bow is held inhand, the other near his quiver of arrows. Just in case. Those brown eyes areintent as ever.
Rydia with a calm aura about her, stands her ground and dose not speak. She iscertainly not the strongest politicaly or physicaly here...
Rhentagoth stands with his arms at his sides, his hood drawn up around his faceto protect him from the harsh light. He bows formally, right arm folded acrosshis stomach, left arm straight at his side, ** Greetings, surface Cousins.Thank you for meeting my companions and I. **
Kinhammer watches the smaller elf warily, his hands tightening around thehammer.
Ember's hand hovers not far from the pummel of her sword. Her jaw thrustsforward as she examines the group. ** What do you want? ** she repeats.
Nevardes is standing towards the back of the group. He's certainly armed, buthe removes his hands from the daggers and clasps them in front of him, thecloak covering all.
Skywise drops from a nearly bare tree branch, his hand automatically droppingto the hilt of his own sword. He doesn't bother to send, as Ember spoke plainlyenough.
Rhentagoth smiles slightly, ** We wish to trade with you. Would you permit usto show you what we have? **
No need for Strongbow to say much more just yet. Not until he knows more, atleast. His eyes flash from Underworlder to Underworlder before he pauses atRhentagoth's send, upper lip curling. No trust here. None whatsoever. Not fromhim.
Skywise narrows his eyes. ** What do you want in return for your goods...elvesto be your slaves? <
Ember snorts softly. She raises her head. ** Trade? ** She sounds a mightskeptical. ** What do you have to trade? ** Apparently, she agrees with hertribesmates.
Rhentagoth looks to Skywise, a look of almost pain crossing his features. Heshakes his head slowly, ** No, we do not seek slaves. That was ... anunfortunate part of our collective past. I had hoped we could, if not forget,then at least forgive the mistakes of others. **
Rydia steps foward slightly... just enough not to offend their hosts. ** Thepast is washed away by the passing of time. We have suffered greatly from thecrimes made against the surface. **
Rhentagoth glances at Rydia, then back to the wolfriders.
Nevardes watches the proceedings carefully, glancing towards each of thewolfriders.
Naeblis looks at the other Underworlders, but remains silent. If there is aneed to speak, he will make his opinions known. This is the delegation ofanother.
Ember frowns. She crosses her arms over her chest. ** Trust is earned,Underworlder. Not given. ** Her jaw thrusts out. ** What exactly did you havein mind to do here? What goods could you have brought? **
Strongbow's free hand slices through the air quickly at Rhentagoth's send, inspite of its truthfulness. ** Won't be forgotten, even by us. Forgiveness maycome when you can prove yourselves. ** Key word being 'may.' The stern archerglares at Rydia, his head shaking back and forth once. The past is notnecessarily washed away by the passing of time, not in all cases. ** Tell mehow you've suffered from your own crimes. ** Ember's send and stance earns aslight nod from Strongbow. Good.
Rhentagoth glances at Rydia again, this time his eyes narrowing slightly.
Naeblis looks directly at StrongBow. ** And those of us who had no hand in it?You destroy the whole to rid of part? **
Skywise steps back, away from Rydia's advance, his hand never straying from hissword. ** Tell that to Treestump, who stayed with you for a time. **
Rhentagoth locksends ** We tred with caution, young Jaersendo. Your words maysing with truth, but it is best to save them for more ... amiable times. ** toRydia.
Rydia sends calmly, not feeling threatened at all by this ** To be shuned fromthose whom we may benefit from? Whom can do the same from us? Tis a pity. **She then cringes slightly at something not seen, forcing herself to take a fewsteps back.
Rhentagoth turns to Skywise, arching a delicate eyebrow.
Rhentagoth locksends ** It means nothing that the once-Lord responcible forthat is now gone? ** to Skywise.
Strongbow casts a finger Naeblis' way, eyes narrowed and still filled withsuspicion. ** Even in doing nothing, you still played your part. You allowed itto happen. ** Adding to Skywise's send, he adds, ** Flashfire, too. Youmuck-grubbing curs took a -cub- slave. **
Ember scowls. ** We have never benefited from you before. ** Her send is hard.** Why should we think we can now? **
Nevardes glances over at Rydia's actions, watching her carefully. His face,deeply hidden in shadow in the hood, darkens at this.
Rydia brings her hands to her head, shaking it softly at the bickering broughtforth by her...
Skywise turns quicksilver eyes to Rhentagoth, a frown deepening the linebetween his brows. ** All that has come from you is harm. What of the lass<
Naeblis shakes his head slightly. ** The Lady Erianvel is well, ere last I sawher. She rules the House Elessardo and sits upon the Council I serve. **
Rhentagoth arches an eyebrow and nods to Naeblis' words, ** She lives quitewell in the halls of the Underworld. **
Kinhammer shifts his position slightly, taking pains not to move too quickly.No need to offend those already so obviously hostile.
Rhentagoth turns to Kinhammer, and says, his voice soft, "Have the others putdown their burdens, Kinhammer."
Nevardes regards Skywise, arching a brow at their beliefs.
Rydia locksends ** I knew only pain would come from this... ** to Naeblis.
Kinhammer nods quickly, and walks to the group of nervous trolls. "Set thosedown and stand quiet. Those who disobey will face the wrath of the Mistress."
Ember's eyes flicker to the troll and his companions. And back to Rhentagoth.Her expression doesn't change. ** How do we know this isn't a trick,Underworlder? I've seen tactics like this before. **
** Alive or dead, she is no longer who she was if she stays amongst yourmindsick numbers. ** Strongbow's send nearly hisses at those gathered, thoughhis bow lowers by a fraction. If the Underworlders are still talking and notcausing trouble, perhaps there's something to their words. It'll have to besomeone else who notes that, however.
Rydia looks over at Naeblis, trying to keep her calm...need to keep that calmhere.
Rhentagoth turns to Ember, ** You have my word that our intentions arepeaceful. **
Skywise turns his gaze toward Ember a moment, obviously struggling with thatone...Sending doesn't lie, but Clearbrook told all of the Lostholters of thedeath of Jaylorra. He licks his lips. ** Prove it. **
Naeblis straightens noticably. ** I am the Lord of the House Juraido. I servethe Council. Hence, I serve the will of the Lady Elessardo, in part. Is that atrick then? I send it to you now? How could I lie? Erianvel lives. **
Nevardes nods. ** Lady Erianvel, previously known as Jaylorra, is alive andwell. **
Ember glances at her two companions, silent sends flickering back and forth.Her brows remain creased.
Kinhammer moves back forward, standing near Rhentagoth, and watching thesurface elves cautiously.
Strongbow scowls openly. ** Your titles mean nothing to us. ** Still tense, hewon't see a finger so much as even laid upon one of his tribe. ** You say yourintentions are peaceful. What have you to trade, then. ** Not a question, butmore of a demand.
Rhentagoth steps aside, motioning to the covered packages on the ground, ** Itis not much, but I hope you will find usefullness enough in our goods to trade.**
Even behind the mask, Naeblis's eyes narrow. The House mean nothing? Thesesurface dwellers speak insults as though they were water! He shakes his headslightly and remains still. To break the peace is not his decision.
Ember dares to take a step closer, her hand drifting back to the hilt of herweapon once more. ** Show me. ** She is blunt, equally demanding.
Naeblis looks at Rhentagoth and then at the trolls.
Nevardes smiles a bit.
Rhentagoth moves to one of the packages and opens it. Revealed is a smallselection of goods: Mushrooms, a small metal dagger, a cask of wine, a shapedstone ring. Rhentagoth sends, ** This is a selection of what we offer. **
Ember's eyes narrow as she gives the goods a brief once-over glance. ** Andwhat would you want in return? <
Strongbow remains at Ember's side, as much to help ensure her safety as topresent a unified front, if you will. He peers down at the package, not toocertain whether any of that would be of any worth to them. The distinctsensation of a send surfaces from his mind, but Ember's question results in itfading away again.
Rhentagoth looks to Nevardes, then to Ember, ** In return, I would ask leave totake a few of your trees to the Underworld. As well, I would like a selectionof furs, leathers, and dyes. **
** For trinkets? Will any of that keep us warm in the winter? ** Skywise's sendis full of mockery, and his face isn't far from it. ** You're asking somethingfor nothing. **
Strongbow's nostrils expand slightly at Rhentagoth's first request. ** Trees?Not from here. Not from our territory. ** He's not the chief, but you wouldn'tknow that from his send. ** The dagger may be useful for a cub, but that'sabout it. **
Rhentagoth ahs, he moves to another package, ** If that is what you wouldprefer, surface Cousin... ** He opens it, revealing a section of woven cloth,** We have also brought cloth and pottery, things of a bit more use. **
Rhentagoth looks to Strongbow, tilting his head to the side. ** Do you wishweapons, Surface Cousin? **
Skywise growls, his breath steaming into the colder air. "We are no cousins ofyours. We have everything we need, it's you that's come begging."
Rhentagoth reaches behind him, drawing forth the Sword of Garado slowly andwithout agression, then he holds the four foot blade lightly across his palms,** A weapon like this, perhaps? **
Ember grunts softly. ** A weapon like that is too large for one of us to wieldeffectively. ** she says bluntly.
Rydia tenses a little bit at Rhentagoth's actions, uncertian on how the surfaceelves would take it, or the offer.
Strongbow shakes his head slowly at Rhentagoth, knuckles whitening around hisbow as he begins to draw the sword, relaxing again as he sees no hostile intentfrom the taller elf. ** I have no use for a thing like that. ** Of course,someone else just might. He doesn't know. But something else is on his mind. **What do you need our items for? **
Naeblis slides a bolt from his quiver and holds it out for inspection. The headis metal and barbed. ** Perhaps something with which to hunt game? **
Rhentagoth nods and resheathes the large sword, ** Of course, it would be.Though we have other weapons more suitable for you, if you so wish it. ** Heturns to Strongbow, ** We require supplies which are not readibly available inthe Underworld. I took this as an opportunity to take the first step towardsremoving the hostility between our peoples. **
Ember steps forward, taking her position as chief in front of her tribe. **What exactly do you want the trees for? ** she asks.
Strongbow shakes his head once again at Naeblis' bolt. ** Good if you want toleave no game behind. ** he snorts, more than content to use his own arrows.Glancing towards Rhentagoth again, he taps a foot on the ground withimpatience. Trade may be the first step, but it'll take considerably morebefore the Underworld will be trusted.
Nevardes glances over to Rhentagoth.
Nevardes locksends ** Perhaps fallen trees would work as well? Perhaps they'dbe willing to part with those easier? ** to Rhentagoth.
Rhentagoth locksends ** A good suggestion, I will present it. ** to Nevardes.
Rydia finaly breaks down and has a seat on the hill, still watching over theevents going on. Do not worry... she in nimble enough to get up in a hurry- ifthat will be the case.
Rhentagoth frowns slightly, ** Coverings for our chambers, handles for tools,things of this nature. Perhaps, if you are against the cutting of the trees, wemight be permitted to take fallen trees instead? **
Kinhammer looks around at the bare trees, perhaps looking for others to watch.
Skywise lets his hand fall from the hilt of his sword, tilting his head inthought. ** May I see the cloth? ** but he doesn't want to get too close. Hedoesn't trust any of you that much.
Naeblis slips the bolt back into the quiver. ** Of course. How silly of me tooffer something to you. ** He turns away from Strongbow, and looks atrhentagoth, shaking his head.
Rhentagoth nods, ** Certainly. ** He moves to the package and takes from it abolt of cloth. He goes back to Skywise, holding it out for him to examine. Itis fine, woven, and looks to be rather warm.
Naeblis locksends ** Are all the surface dwellers so rude? ** to Rhentagoth.
Ember crosses her arms again. ** We don't cut the trees. ** she replies. ** Theonly trees /anyone/ may use are those already dead. ** She flicks Naeblis adark glance at his sarcasm and turns away to watch Rhentagoth's dealings withthe stargazer.
Rhentagoth locksends ** They do not seem to believe that we come in peace. I donot blame them, but your restraint does you credit, young Lord. ** to Naeblis.
The Underworlder with the bolt is the lucky recipient of a harsh glare fromStrongbow, though nothing is said in response. Now shouldering his bow, hecrosses his arms over his chest and nods slightly at Ember's send. That's a bitof approval, there.
Rhentagoth nods, ** May we have your leave, then, to take a few dead trees withus, in exchange for cloth? It seems most useful for you. We may also show you alarger variety of weapons, which I am sure would be even more useful thancloth. **
Skywise takes the bolt gingerly, as though it might bite, but does examine itclosely, running his fingers over the fabric, and even going so far as to sniffat it. ** It wouldn't hold up against a good bramble thicket. ** he sendsfinally, honest at least.
Rydia locksends ** Please end this before they take out their aggressions... **to Rhentagoth.
Nevardes locksends ** Lord Goumando has readied two additional trolls if weneed to bring additional quantities of cloth, weapons, or whatever, assuming wehave the material to bring up. ** to Rhentagoth.
Rydia shifts a little in her spot, feeling more and more uncertian of thiswhole ordeal as time passes...
Rhentagoth locksends ** Indeed. It is possible that this may be required, butwe shall see. ** to Nevardes.
Ember's expression remains dark. ** I will consider it. ** she says after along moment. It's a small concession perhaps, but there are still questions tobe answered. ** What other weapons? And what besides cloth and weapons andtrinkets? **
Rhentagoth locksends ** I doubt they would attack us. They would be foolish totry. ** to Rydia.
Skywise smiles slightly. ** You might do better to trade with the Sun Folk. Ifyou can get them to trust you any further than we do. This cloth would be moreto their liking, and the jewelry as well. **
Rhentagoth turns to Nevardes, ** If you would be so good as to show what youhave brought, Nevardes? **
Rhentagoth smiles as well, bowing slightly to Skywise, ** Your suggestion isnoted, I will bring it before the Council when next we meet. **
Nevardes looks over at Ember and nods. ** We have daggers and shorter swords.** He reaches under his outer cloak and unhitches a 'short sword' (to theUWers) in it's scabbard, and ho
Nevardes ..and holds it out for her inspection.
Naeblis whirls on Rhentagoth, gesturing furiously.
Naeblis locksends ** We made peace with the Sun Folk. They at least had thedecency to listen without insults. ** to Rhentagoth.
Strongbow still doesn't like this very much. But..so long as no harm comes toanyone, he might be fine with this. But as Naeblis spins, he withdraws his bowagain..prepared, just in case something's up.
Rhentagoth arches an eyebrow at Naeblis.
Rydia slowly stands to her feet, surprised at Naeblis' sudden move... oh my,this cannot be good.
Ember approaches Nevardes cautiously to look at the blade. She runs a lightfinger along it. It's a decent length, though it would definitely be considereda longsword for a wolfelf. "Hmph." she snorts softly. ** Perhaps... May Isee--? ** Her head snaps around to Naeblis' gesturing and she frows,immediately backing away.
Rhentagoth holds up a hand to calm Naeblis' frantic gestures.
Naeblis shakes his head, and takes the bolt from his crossbow. He places thebolt back into the quiver, and releases the tension from the arms slowly.
Nevardes blinks a moment as Ember snaps her head, halfway in the motion ofhanding her the sword, and follows her gaze to Naeblis.
Skywise locksends ** We won't attack you without provocation. We have morereason than you to be wary. ** to Naeblis.
Rhentagoth locksends ** They had more cause to loathe us, indeed, and carriedthemselves well. These ... elves, however, mate with wolves and live theirlives as such. Take their barbs in stride, for restraint does you credit, whileoutbursts can only injure our cause. I had thought you would have learned fromRydia's speach earlier. ** to Naeblis.
Naeblis locksends to Skywise, Naeblis's locksend tingles like the sharp edge ofa thunderstorm. ** We made peace with the Sun Folk. They at least had thedecency to listen without insults. **
Skywise forces himself to stay away from Ember. She'll only snap if he tries toprotect her anyway, chief pro tem or not. Instead he circles around, inspectingNaeblis as the curiosity he is.
Strongbow points at Naeblis, then Rhentagoth. ** What are you two sharing? **he prompts, not at all liking their apparent privacy in a situation like this.
Ember's hand has drifted back to her sword. Her send is sharp. ** What's goingon? **
Rhentagoth looks to Strongbow and Ember, then sends to them both.
Rhentagoth locksends, to Strongbow, Ember: ** Forgive the privacy again, butyoung Lord Naeblis bristles at your insults. We come to you in peace and withthe hope of friendship. May I ask, then, that you save your barbs? They canonly agrivate wounds best left to heal. **
Rhentagoth smiles slightly, his send gentle.
Ember regards Naeblis for a long moment. Her lips press together and she nodsslowly to Rhentagoth.
Ember locksends, to Strongbow, Skywise, Rhentagoth: ** Honor his request. Nomore insults. We don't want to fight. **
Rhentagoth bows again, smiling, ** My thanks. **
Ember nods sharply once more. She sends openly. ** I would like to see thearrows again. Please. **
Skywise bridles, but his hand slowly drops from his sword, and he's about anarm's length from Naeblis, eyes fixed to the mask. ** Why hide behind the mask?I mean no insult, but there is little to trust in an unyielding piece of stone.**
Nevardes blinks again, looking between Rhentagoth, Naebls, and Ember. He notesher send and nods, reattaching the sword to his side.
Strongbow locksends, to Ember, Skywise, Rhentagoth: ** <
Skywise locksends, to Strongbow, Ember, Rhentagoth: ** ...<
Rhentagoth locksends, to Nevardes, Naeblis, Rydia: ** Our surface Cousins willleave off their insults in the interests of peace. **
Naeblis peers at Ember a moment, and then draws a bolt from the quiver. Heextends it to her, holding the barbed point towards himself.
Rydia runs a finger down her own mask, noting how fearsome the natives take itto be...
Strongbow shoulders his bow again, perhaps as relaxed as he'll be for now,which isn't saying a whole lot. Suspicious eyes still travel from one elf toanother, then to the trolls present. He finds Skywise's question to be a goodone. ** Aye. Why hide your faces? **
Naeblis looks at Skywise. ** I had an experience with the daystar once... ** Hepushes the sleeve of the cloak and the tunic beneath it up, revealing a ring ofburnt scar tissue. ** I found it most unpleasant. Does that answer yourquestion? **
Skywise tilts his head away from Ember, and unconscious showing of throat, andhe's still looking at Naeblis. Not afraid, but certainly not trusting, either.A certain morbid fascination creeps over his features.
Rhentagoth hmms, ** A good question, Archer. Partly for protection, though alsoas a symbol of our Houses. All of the Lords have a mask to represent for whomthey stand. **
Rydia calls out to help clarify, ** The daystar burn us... harms us like aknife would to you. **
Nevardes turns to Skywise, and attempts to change the subject. ** Would youperhaps be interested in some of the heavier cloth our cloaks are made out of?I don't believe we have any bolts of it with us - it is too bulky and heavy forsomething we weren't sure if you would want, but some can be brought upquickly. **
Ember nods. ** That would explain it. ** she says grudgingly. She risks a steptowards Naeblis to look at the arrow head.
Naeblis quickly tugs the tunic back into place, and lets the cloak drop backinto place. ** I prefer not to wear such reminders on my face as I do on mywrists. **
Naeblis extends it further out, fletchings first. No sense in making her reach.
Strongbow's sole answer is the nodding of his head in response to theexplanations from the Underworlders, at least somewhat content with it. If theychoose to hide beneath the earth, it only makes sense for the light to harmthem. Something worth keeping in mind, too. Still, none of the items theUnderworlders offer seem to catch his eye, though perhaps he just hasn't seenanything that would, yet. Taking a couple steps back, he waits.
Naeblis locksends ** Perhaps the pottery? ** to Rhentagoth.
Rhentagoth nods to Naeblis, ** Indeed, would you be so good as to present it,Lord Naeblis? **
Rhentagoth looks at Strongbow, thinks a moment, and then sends to him.
Ember runs her finger along the arrow as she did the blade. She looks at thearrowhead and nods. ** It is possible, ** she concedes ** that we may be ableto reach an agreement. ** She looks at the Underworlders, addressingRhentagoth, whom she sees as chief. ** Do you intend to make camp in our holtor will you stay in the caves? **
Rhentagoth locksends ** You mentioned ... a child? Flashfire? Is the childwell? ** to Strongbow.
Naeblis leaves the bolt in Ember's hands and makes a series of curt motions tothe trolls behind him.
Skywise doesn't have any real interest in the cloth. Moonshade usually workswonders with the leathers brought in. But he's always too willing to holdgrudges, and maybe it's time to change that. Can't keep enemies on all borders,at any rate. ** Is there anything else at all? ** he asks Nevardes. ** That youmight have brought to trade..? **
Rhentagoth blinks, pulling his attention from Strongbow to Ember, ** You woudpermit us to stay within your holt? **
The trolls scurry forth, bringing a small assortment of pottery. Pitchers,bowls, jugs, and plates, all of excellent make.
Nevardes thinks. ** The cloth, daggers, swords, several kinds of wine, themushrooms... ** He looks at Rhentagoth to see if he's forgotten something...
Strongbow's eyes settle upon Rhentagoth, and he sends privately.
Rhentagoth nods in agreement with Nevardes. Except for different variations ofthe goods, he has gotten it correct.
Strongbow locksends ** He is well.. (No thanks to any of you, he wants to say.He wants to say it badly, but holds the harsh comment in) Fortunately. He wasbut a cub when he was your slave. ** to Rhentagoth.
Ember regards Rhentagoth neutrally. ** I was merely interested in yourintentions. ** She is honest. ** I am not convinced it would be safe for eitherof our people for you to remain within our borders for long. **
Rhentagoth shakes his head, his blue eyes on the archers', sending privately.
Rhentagoth locksends to Strongbow, Rhentagoth sends with sadness, ** He wasnever my slave. I am sorry, for I did not know that they had taken children. Iwas, at the time, withdrawn. I take no part in the harming of children, norwould I permit it to happen. **
Ember glances at Strongbow. She then turns back to Rhentagoth, clearlyexpecting some kind of acknowledgement.
Rhentagoth looks back to Ember, ** If you would permit us, we will make our ...camp here, on the very edge of your territory. **
Ember looks about the clearing. She nods firmly. ** Aye. Here will be fine. **She looks directly into Rhentagoth's face and eyes, being the alpha wolf shehas been raised to be. ** We will have scouts and sentries about. Do not enterthe holt without advising them. Please. **
Ember's 'Please' is not a begging. It's a courtesy.
Rhentagoth nods his head, bowing formally. ** It will be as you say. **
Rhentagoth senses in a locksend, Strongbow has little to offer in responce,save a mental nod and a few words. ** I understand. At least..not all of youseem the same. **
Naeblis turns to the trolls. "Make camp. Set the tents and shades well. Whenyou are finished, you will return to me for instructions."
Rhentagoth nods to Strongbow, bowing to him as well.
Kinhammer watches the other trolls scuttle to obey the orders of the LordJuraido a moment, and then turns to watch the surface elves once more.
Rhentagoth locksends ** I thank you for your kindness. ** to Strongbow.
Ember nods, satisfied. ** Then, I will inform the tribe of your intention totrade. And you and I can sit to discuss the matter of the trees. ** She stilladdresses Rhentagoth.
Strongbow locksends ** <
Rhentagoth nods again, ** So be it. Though, a minor point, ** He smilesslightly, ** How shall we address you? **
Ember shrugs. ** I am called Ember. I act as chieftess here. **
Rhentagoth nods, ** Very well, Chieftess Ember. **
Strongbow trusts Ember to handle things well enough here, for the time being -enough that he puts a bit more space between himself and the visiting group andthe current Lostholt chieftess. Still, though, he remains silent and observant.
Ember nods again. Her lips purse slightly. ** You are called Rhentagoth? ** Shetries to make sure she has the name correct.
Rhentagoth nods his head, ** Lord Rhentagoth, though you may call me Rhentagothif you prefer. **
Ember sends ** Lord Rhentagoth, then. ** she agrees. ** Fine. **
Naeblis looks at Skywise.
Skywise returns Naeblis' look with a cool steady gaze of his own. Almost as ifto ask just what he's looking for.
Rydia sits back down, having regained her sense of security. Both sides seem tobe better now, more trusting than before.
Rhentagoth looks to Ember, then to the other Wolfriders, ** I believe we willtake food now. You are welcome to join us, though our food may be strange toyou. ** He smiles.
Naeblis locksends ** You wish to see the faces we bear? It is easier withoutthe light of the daystar. Perhaps later? ** to Skywise.
Ember shakes her head. ** No. Thank you, though. I, for one, have eatenalready. **
Skywise locksends ** Count on it. I don't trust a mask. Much easier to hide howone truly feels behind a mask, wouldn't you say? <
Strongbow imagines their own food must be rather strange to the Underworldersas well. So, they're even in that respect. ** I've got my own. ** he answers,managing to avoid a terribly blunt 'no.'
Nevardes shrugs, guessing Skywise didn't like what he had to say, and turnstowards Rhentagoth again.
Nevardes locksends ** These surface dwellers are quite rude, Lord. ** toRhentagoth.
Skywise is much more fascinated by a locksend that was directed his way, thoughhe doesn't completely ignore Nevardes, reaching out a hand slowly to touch theedge of his cloak. Hmmm, interesting.
Rhentagoth locksends ** This is true, but notice how they try, if onlyslightly, not to offend us. I take this to be a good sign. ** to Nevardes.
Naeblis locksends to Skywise, Naeblis's send seems ambivalent. ** It can help,with those who know you little. Those who know you well are not fooled soeasily. Perhaps in time, you will not notice the masks. **
Nevardes blinks at Skywise, but stands there, letting Skywise feel the cloth.
Skywise lets go and backs away, wolfy inspection all done. Maybe Moonshade canfind a use for it.
Rydia closes her eyes behind her mask, just taking the noises of the surfaceworld... the animals... the wind... the trees. All is not new to her, but ithas been a few turns since she last heard anything from above.
Naeblis locksends ** After all... It is not the masks we ask you to trust, butus, and that is far more difficult, I would think. ** to Skywise.
Nevardes nods to Skywise. ** Do you want some of the heavier cloth brought upfor tomorrow? **
Naeblis looks then at the archer. ** And you? Perhaps you wish to see uswithout the masks as well? **
Ember turns and nods to her tribe. ** Send for me, Lord Rhentagoth, if you needanything. ** And, she heads back in towards the holt.
Rhentagoth bows formally to Ember as she walks away, ** My thanks, ChieftessEmber. **
Ember locksends ** You're welcome. ** to Rhentagoth.
Rhentagoth smiles slightly to a send, bowing again.
Strongbow turns abruptly and paces back towards the inner parts of the holt,sharing something with Ember and Skywise as he goes. At Naeblis' send, hepauses and sends. ** Later. The hunt calls. ** The Wolfriders could hear it -not the Underworlders, though. Not quite loud enough for their ears. With that,he disappears into the forest.
Skywise shrugs and starts to go, quite ready to follow Ember. But not, mindyou, at the expense of turning his back. He backs away some distance beforetaking to the trees, running effortlessly along snow-laden branches withoutdisturbing hardly a snowflake.
Rhentagoth turns to the assembled Underworlders, ** Very well, we shall stayfor a time to complete our business. ** With that, he enters in to one of thealready erected tents.
Nevardes mmms as Skywise runs off without an answer, shrugs, and turns for oneof the tents as well.
Rydia snaps back to attention, getting up from her spot, feeling fine now. Shemakes her way down the hill over to the tents, but dose not enter one.
Strongbow heads along the northern trail to Lost Holt.
Naeblis stands for a moment in the snow, watching after the three beforeentering the tent marked with the symbol of his House.
Ember heads along the northern trail to Lost Holt.
Skywise heads along the northern trail to Lost Holt.
Rydia kneels down before her tent and starts to examine the white stuff on theground... hmmm... it's cold... colder than water... and it can be shaped? Howodd... she smiles behind her mask at the powder, playing with it.
Kinhammer watches the trolls erect another tent, and the elf at play beforebeginning to patrol the exterior of the camp.
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