HERBAL POULTICE

Tak’ kept his eyes out during the day's travel, both for danger, and for useful plants and herbs. But most of all, Tak’ was looking out for signs of small lizards – in particular the false chameleon. This lizard, unlike its close relatives, was not able to change its skin to blend into the background – yet it avoided predators almost as effectively – by means of its smell. The lizard used its droppings as a repellent, building its lair with them, and depositing them at the first sign of trouble.

Even the feared Athasian Sloth had been known to be driven away by a False Chameleon. While Tak’ had no need to drive something that large away, when mixed and diluted, the dropping made an excellent insect-repellant. One that would not endear you in social situations, but one that would keep the air around you clear of pesky and potentially disease-carrying insects.

There! The leaves of the low-lying Mugrub tree, eaten away from the knee-level. Walking carefully forward, Tak' pushed several half-eaten leaves with his spear. There was a flash of movement as a small lizard darted away, and immediately an overpowering stench. Staggering back in revulsion, Tak’ knew he had found what he wanted. Waiting for the smell to subside, and wrapping his blanket around his face and nose, Tak’ picked up one of the droppings, wrapping it in a leaf, stowing it in his pack for later.

AT THE CAMPSITE

As the embers burned low, Tak used a stone with a hollow as a makeshift bowl. Placing the single, potent False Chameleon dropping into the hollow, and adding water and earth, Tak’ let the mixture bake, the offensive smell dying away as the outer crust solidified.

Taking the hard ball out of the fire when he deemed it ready, Tak’ let it cool, then repeated the process. Handing one of the small balls to Elric and the other to Gaigin, Tak’ barely contained his laughter – this recipe was one featured in many halfling nursery rhymes which scared halfling children into ignoring insects – lest they have the smelly mixture applied to them.

"When the insects bite, break the ball and smear it on your exposed skin. While the smell to you nose will be bearable – to insects it will not."

Gaigin, taking a sniff of the ball, turns up his nose, saying skeptically. "This better work - I don’t plan on smelling like kank-milk for nothing!" Observing the multitude of swollen insect-bites on his exposed skin, Gaigin makes a mental calculation and shrugs his shoulders, deciding that aroma in this case could take a back-seat to comfort.

Koreth looks sadly at Gaigin, fate had chosen him as leader and now fate would almost surely kill him. He hoped that the warrior could make his way back and that the fiery rays that have killed so many would heal his malady. He moves over to Gaigin's side, a sympathetic look on his eyes. He sits down beside him and looks into his eyes." I'm sad that it came to this...." Koreth trails off "You are a sturdy warrior and a good companion. Take care friend." He holds out his hand to Gaigin.

Tak’ looked at Gaigin with a continued worry. While he was only coughing and wheezing at the moment, Tak’ knew full well that the Fire Gnat bite would slowly work at undermining the stout warrior's lungs. The humidity of the Forest Ridge would only intensify the cough and fever Gaigin had. The outlook was not good, but not hopeless.

"Gaigin, early tomorrow morning I will lead you back through the forest. I would suggest retracing our steps through the mountains and returning to Tyr," the words do not come easily to Tak’, who obviously does not like taking a decision which will endanger his companion - but the alternative was far worse, and Tak’ continued. "You are a man worthy of your name Gaigin. While the wilderness I harsh, your honor and sense of purpose should see you through."

The ex-caravan guard looks straight at Tak and thanks him for the offer. "I cannot accept that the group loose any more time with me and my unfortunate disease. I still have my wits about me and my hand is not as shaken as you may think. I will find my way back alone. I will only need supplies for a few days and, have no doubt, that I will live to see you again." The warrior did not look has as well as he intended to sound but the halfling saw that there no point in arguing further.

"Tak’ performs a small bow, one that last several seconds, "I hope to meet again, Gaigin. May it be in a place where death does not stalk and the mood can be joyful and not one of sadness."

"I have seen pack leaders fall in times like this before." Chit-Zik says, after Gaigin leaves. He looks to his halfling friend. "I say we follow Tak in his absence."

The thri-kreen changes position again, something he does often. He is not used to the dampness of the air, and not liking it at all. "We must try to get through this place as soon as we can. It is not safe here." He
twitches his antenna and looks at another of the small creatures that inhabit the area, obviously a constant annoyance for him.

Tak’ makes a small smile at Chit-Zik's suggestion, "A halfling becoming a leader of men? Who in ‘Nak, or even Tyr would have believed it." Shaking his head slightly at the idea Tak’ stands, "While the compliment
is accepted Chit-Zik, a leader must be strong and also wise, able to take advise as well as give it. Were I back among my people they would not acknowledge me as leader in a band with a purpose as great as this – indeed I have left my village to gain these very skills."

Tak’ sighs, wrestling with internal issues, ones relating to the mantle of leadership and the responsibilities that come with it, "if Gaigin must leave, the void must be filled. If you are all accepting of my ability to lead - knowing both my strength and my weaknesses I will take on the role of pack-leader." Tak’ speaks again, his voice low, "But know this – a leader in halfling culture is more than one who makes decisions. He is a parent, as if tied to all he leads with bonds of kinship and blood. My commitment to you will be total, and this commitment cannot be given or received lightly."

Tak’ sits, his face a mask of total seriousness, awaiting a reply. The shadows of the flickering fire dance across his body, making his tattoos seem to come alive – an exotic individual in an exotic land.

"Even though I respect Tak for his abilities," Koreth begins "I do not think him a good choice for our leader. If his own people would not take him seriously in such a role, how can we?" Koreth surveys his companions, thinking out loud to himself.

'Who should take the leadership role?' Koreth continues 'Tak makes a good hunter and a good scout but not a leader. Chit....he's a kreen, who would take anyone seriously if they followed a kreen? The elf, pah! I'd not follow him out of a wet sack if he stood before the opening. Ayrus...to naive. Elric...no.' Koreth sighs, his thoughts coming to their final conclusion.

"I will volunteer myself to become the leader," Koreth announces "though I leave the final decision to the rest of you. I am of the Tyrian nobility, people will expect me to be in a position of leadership and are more likely to accept my words. I say this not out of avarice, greed or desire for power. I say this because it is true."

Ptellac casually looks towards Koreth as he begins to speak of his traveling companions. The pterran munches on a slimy grub agreeing with Tak on their sweet taste. He addresses Koreth but speaks loud enough to be heard by all around the campfire, "You seem to speak lightly of companions who have saved your life more than once, warrior." Before the noble warrior can explain himself, the pterran continues, "But...I think I understand your feeling. You seem to think of a leader of someone who comes before Tyr-Council and there you may be right. You are probably the best suited for that but Tak makes a fine leader while traveling through the jungle and, who knows, I may prove my worth once we are on the other side of the mountains."

The pterran raises a clawed hand, "Maybe we should think of more than one leader depending on what the situation calls for. The group is diverse enough and the leaders that you have dismissed may be great leaders if the situation is right." The saurian trader bows his head, his eyes dwindle to a slit by the fire's light, "I am only here as an outsider, you are the group, you make the decision and I will abide by it."

Tak’s eyes narrow, and his mouth tightens, but he says no words until he has had time to think them over first. Obviously, Koreth has crossed some invisible line.

"Koreth," he begins, his tone flat, "I said I was not yet a leader of my people. Not that they treat Tak’Nak’Raq as of no consequence. Leadership among the halflings is a sacred position, endorsed not just by the village, but also by Gaea, and all of the halflings that have lived before - all the way back to the Green age," Tak’ says fervently.

Tak’ continues, his fist clenched and in emotion, "Just as you were born into a leadership role Koreth, so was I. Born the 23rd son of Gre’Nak I maybe one day will lead the village ‘Nak."

Sitting back down with in front of the fire, Tak’ concludes; "It appears the only difference between us Koreth is 3 feet in height, the forest and the city, and a degree of humility."

Aryus offers his input. "Yes, I may be too naive and lack the knowledge to be leader for this group. The forest is not my terrain either. I do suggest that Tak lead us for now as we go through the Forest Ridge. After that in the Hinterlands, we will have Ptellac lead us to his village. Finally we should have Koreth lead us in the negotiations and to represent the city of Tyr."

"Wisdom is being spoken," Tak says nodding in acceptance of Aryus’ and Ptellac’s words, "truly the city and its ways are foreign to me, just as the Forest I call home are alien to you." Tak’ speaks up, addressing the group in a formal tone, "I suggest a two-way split, Koreth for when we walk the paced streets of ‘civilization’ and myself when we walk the uncluttered ways of the wilderness."

"A leader must be able to utilize the talents and advice of those being led. Where their knowledge is not enough, deference must be given to those who possess such knowledge. ‘A leader who leads by himself may as well lead only himself.’" Tak’ states in sage fashion, another saying from his halfling history.

"If I had wanted a lecture, I am sure I could have found that in Tyr." Koreth growls at Tak, his expression betraying his growing anger "I don't know your ways, I care little for them. I know the ways of my own people. Perhaps you are in a position to one day be the leader of your village. How was I to know that!" His brow wrinkles with his distaste of his companions words and he grips his spear with white knuckles.

Tak’ at the sight of Koreths whitening knuckles, lets his Will flow through him, not to attack or defend, but just there - waiting. His mouth tightening as cultural boundaries are once again breached. "You were not to know, noble-Koreth," Tak’ spits out the word noble with some distaste, "but you presumed otherwise. Leadership is not expected only of humans with palaces and slaves."

Addressing the point the halfling fumes. Tak’ continues, his words icy and unyielding, "you may mock me Koreth, but my ways and people hold more meaning to me than my life or my name. You tread a fine line noble." Tak’ finishes, remaining perfectly still, his face stony, but his muscles clenched and breathing rapid.

"It is not bad enough that you put words into my mouth and ideas into my head that I did not put their first!" Koreth barks "Did I say that as a leader I would ignore the counsel of others? Why then did you immediately assume so? Do you think I am stupid!" Koreth sneers and turns away from his companions, his cloak whipping about him. He continues with a calmness that can only be an icy cover for his rage, "I see that my opinion is not valued in this group, so take charge halfling. No one would listen to my orders anyways...." He walks a few paces off, his spear gripped tightly as he gazes off into the depth of the miserable forest he found himself in. "What fools errand have I gotten myself into...." he mutters under his breath.

Tak’ grimly aware of the rift that was beginning to form in the group concentrated to calm himself, and allow his nexus to become his bastion for peace and tranquility. While traditionally halfling society demanded confrontations for leadership vacuums, usually it was less heated, and more symbolic. <Leadership is only a valued trait if it comes naturally and without coercion.> Tak’s eyes snapped open, he knew what he must do

As Koreth and Tak' battle each other with words, Aryus feels a bit uncomfortable with this whole issue.

The wind mage states, "Look, I realize our current frustration at our former leader's soon to be passing. But let's just understand this for a moment. All of us, I'm sure, are working for the best interest of this group, to get us safely across to the Hinterland villages. Before I joined this group, my social abilities were quite limited; I was naive and still am now. But as I have observed that it seems very sad that people of the same cause still fight each other. Tak' and Koreth both wish to lead this group, but have you forgotten why you wish to lead this group? Perhaps to carry the responsibility for all of our welfare?"

Aryus sighs before continuing, "I only suggested Tak' as our leader for the time being because of his knowledge of the land. A leader is only a title, I will follow Tak' nonetheless because I know he will guide me through these lands. And when we finally begin the negotiations I will trust Koreth as therepresentative of us and of Tyr. Whoever may become the leader, may the winds guide you."

Elric's smile fades as he looks to Gaigin. Gaigin had and still would mean a great deal to Elric. Thoughts of the past well up, much strength was learned from the stout warrior. It would be hard to see him go, still harder to choose one to step into his place and lead the Pack. Elric moves his gaze about his companions. All have fought with him and showed great valor and honor. Though while Elric had wisdom enough to know he would not step forward to lead he could not look upon another who stood out among his companions that solidly filled the roll.

Tak was a perfect choice for the here and now. His knowledge of the area and such wilderness was unparalleled. However, not a few moments gone he had neglected to share valuable information about the blood grass. Koreth, our negotiator, would lead well once we have reached the city. Still his noble blood lead him to react as a noble and that was not always good for a pack who would use all means at its disposal. Chit would lead the pack as a strong hunter but had no care for the doings of men and cities. Aryus sought only the freedom of the windlords. Mendi had proven able and quick thinking, but had only been with the group a short time. All these things quickly sorted themselves out in Elric's mind as he stepped forward. With a knowing nod he knew he would follow who ever was chosen as was his way.

To the arrangement of his companions Elric finally speaks "The choice is not an easy one by far. All here have ample talent and wisdom. But it must be decided today before we travel less there be trouble later. I believe the two main candidates should be Koreth and Tak" Looking at Koreth "You, Koreth, would lead us to great things. Though your noble rigidness would in the end be our downfall. I have seen you come quick to anger at perceived threats to you honor." Turning to Tak "You, Tak, would also lead us to great things as you know them, though we are not a tribe of halflings and your perceptions of the civilization, which is the world I have come from, would be our downfall. I do not speak these words lightly for you both have strength and are worthy companions. Also I do not speak these things to bolster my own claim, for I surely have not the ability to lead a group such as we. I say these things for when one of you is chosen as leader, as I believe one of you will, you understand that not always do your views and perceptions reflect that of the pack. If the pack is to become great you must put aside your own perceptions and open your eyes to the greater good of the pack." Turning to look at both Koreth and Tak with and intense gaze "I have spoken my mind now I must meditate and make my decision." Elric moves to the side of the group and sits bringing forth his inner calm as he thinks over his decision.

Koreth turns from his watch of the forest, traces of anger still on his face and in his posture. He takes a deep breath, "I apologize. I spoke my thoughts aloud, and that is what has sparked this argument. It was unintentional I assure you, but now for better or worse my personal thoughts have been laid bare." He pauses, his face seeming to calm as he speaks. "Hear out my final words tonight on leadership. A leader is not that which is most suited to the present situation, but a person who can coordinate the group and keep them together in battle and otherwise. I know that Tak is our best hope while in his lands, but is his role not more of an advisor than a leader? We need someone who can settle disputes, make sure there is enough water and supplies. Perhaps my anger will keep me from such a post, but blood and ashes! I am willing to do my best. If that is not enough, then I would gladly give my position to another who is more suited."

Tak’ calm once more, his flash of anger at cultural differences washed over with his stoic mask speaks in formal tones, "Koreth understands the role of the leader well - one who decides, but knows when to take advice. But most importantly, the pack must remain cohesive, one not divided with disputing parties. I see bickering, and I will end it."

Tak’ stands, and walks over to Koreth, and speaks to him directly, but also addressing the group, "I will not stand and disrupt the harmony of this group, the role of leader should come without eventual conflict and with universal consensus. To this end while Koreth disagrees I will not stand as leader."

Tak’ bows before Koreth and offers him his spear symbolically, "if you have faith in your mind and abilities I will put my faith in your leadership." Tak’ continues, his eyes intense and face passive, "know that this decision is not a light one nor for the light-hearted. Let no doubt cloud your decision, for such doubt will bring only grief."

Koreth pulls out his skin and takes a short drink as he sits down at the fire, his expression now more somber than angry. A trace of his rage still flickers across his eyes in the firelight. He sighs, his thoughts retracing memories long past. <How long has it been?> Koreth thinks to himself sadly <How long since those elvish bastards killed....> A lone tear drips from his eye, which he quickly wipes away as if afraid others will notice....

HEALING

The discussion goes on deep into the night, even as the fires die down. When the companions finally decide to sleep and "lick their wounds" Aryus notices Elric's limp arm. He sees how the warlock is struggling with pain as his limb hangs there at his side without use.

Aryus approaches Elric, "Let me have a look at that arm of yours." The windmage mutters a prayer to the windlords to invoke their healing power.

The feeling of warmth fades from Elric's injured arm taking with it the pain and lack of strength. Flexing his arm, relieved he once again has use of both limbs Elric smiles to Aryus "Thank you once again for bringing me the healing power of your windlords."

Aryus seemed altogether disgusted by Ptellac and Tak's enjoyment of the fleshy grubs. These worm like creatures repulsed him like a foul breeze. But grubs or dinner was not the current issue, Gaigin's condition was.

"Most unfortunate." Aryus says and then turns to Tak. "Are you sure that a healing spell cannot help him? In this jungle the windlords may be weak, but not completely powerless."

Tak’ frowns, and speaks of the Fire Gnat, "In the villages of the halflings we are well versed in the arts of healing, be they with the Way, the blessings of Gaea, or the aid of the elements." Tak’ holds his hands up in helplessness, "sadly, there are illnesses such as these which are beyond such methods of salvation, and only a strong will and adequate precautions can see one through them."

Aryus then looks to Gaigin and tries to see how his companion is faring. The windmage was met with a loud sneeze.

The halfling hunter fills his body with his Will. He walks over to Chit and starts the healing process with his hunting partner. The kreen's body is slowly healed and the ripped chitin starts to close. Tak then concentrates on his own wounds and lets his energy mend torn muscles and staunch internal blood flow. The halfling takes out his ancient dagger and looks at it more closely trying to fathom anything else from it The psionicist lets his Will flow forth in an attempt to find out more about the blade much in the same way that he learned about people. Unfortunately the blade gave forth no aura whatsoever and tak had to content himself with holding a magical item of unknown worth.

Expedition Day 6 - Year of the Desert's Fury of the 190th King's Age (Free Year 11)

Forest Trail - Somewhere deep in the Forest Ridge

They woke up without any major surprises except that Gaigin had departed. The warrior had taken his equipment, supplies and left back towards the mountains. He only said goodbye to the sentries of the last turn and only briefly. The sadness in his eyes left no opening for further questions. He clasped Elric's hand and briefly saluted Mendi and he was gone. The companions broke camp rather quickly, barely munching on some fruits without many words being spoken. The sullen mood only seemed accentuated by the distant rumble of thunder that forebode rains and worse for the morning hike.

The forest trail was a bit cooler this morning. What little sky could be seen from amidst the green foliage was cloud covered and gray; Athas crimson villain did not seem to bother the companions as they trudged along. Light drizzles had accompanied them throughout morning and their clothing and backpacks were drenched; water clung on leafs, tree trunks and the companion's soggy moods as well.

Tak had taken the point position; the little hunter stopped all of the sudden and raised his right hand. The signal, well know to everyone, made everyone halt in their tracks. The heroes' breathing involuntarily stopped and the droplets dripping from above could be heard. Then they heard it. It was a strange, out of place, noise. It was not being very careful and whoever was making it seemed more intent on covering ground than in hiding its steps. That only meant two things: either a careless prey, which was not likely, or a predator…

Tak motioned for them to leave the trail and hide until the danger passed or at least could be seen. It was not long when it appeared. The female mul was 6 feet tall, and had the typical features of all those of her race. Her swept back ears came to a point along the side of her hairless head. A tattoo of coiling shapes reached from the top of her head down to her left eyebrow. The blackness of her eyes combined with her lean, yet well-muscled physique, gave her an imposing look. Her skin had obviously seen much of the cruel Athasian sun, yet she did not look rugged. There was a pride in her every movement but it was tainted by not so much as fear but rather urgency.

She wore strips of tight fitting leather, fastened to maintain some modesty about her chest, as well as a pair of leather shorts. The form fitting apparel made it more comfortable when wearing her breast plate of tan chitin, and flailer-shell coverings on her arms and legs. A bone tortoise blade was loosely fastened to her hip, within easy reach to be used when needed. Her only other visible possessions were a water skin and long sword that hang off her belt and a tattered sandy-brown cloak.

The mul suddenly stopped and looked about, she drew her bone long sword with a practiced ease. Some sixth sense told her that something was wrong with this forest trail. She grabbed onto her tortoise blade in her left hand and speaking much to herself as to whoever was out there, "Alright, whoever ye are. Let's get this over with. I am not going back so if I am to die, I will take a few of yees with me…"

Your actions…

OUT OF CHARACTER

HEALTH STATUS

Remember the scale:

Healthy (H) 100% hitpoints remaining

Slightly Wounded (SiW) 75% to 100% hitpoints remaining

Wounded (W) 50% to 75% hitpoints remaining

Seriously Wounded (SeW) 25% to 50% hitpoints remaining

Mortally Wounded (MW) 0% to 25% hitpoints remaining

Ptellac (H)

Koreth (SiW)

Elric (H)

Ayrus (H)

Mendi (SiW)

Chit (SeW)

Tak (SiW)

Rayne (H)

GENERAL

Great roleplaying everyone. All I can say is that we (myself first and foremost) must be a little more careful when we read other people's turns and act upon their words and not their thoughts. From now on, we will put all thoughts <inside> to make them easier to spot.

Well, we had our first dropout in almost 3 months of playing. That is very good for a PbeM game. Polonius may be back later on if he gets constant email access and still wants to play. We will deal with that when the times come so do not worry.

All kidding aside, let's show Krista what a great group we have. I think she will round off our party well for her character is new (race, gender, background) and she is very enthusiastic about the whole thing. She has read all the past turns and there aren't many people who will put up with that. Please update your address books, remove Polonius and add Krista to the list.

SENTRIES

I would like to know a "typical" set up for guards at night. The turns taken and who is first, etc. You may want to discuss this in character later on or just make up your minds and tell me OOC.

EXPERIENCE

Here are the XPs points awarded for the period of "the waterhole" to present. I have a hard time doing this because I really don't want any of you to get pissed off at me thinking that I favor someone (s) in particular. The way I do this is to split the period in different encounters and give out from 0 (not participated such as being paralyzed, etc) to 500 (great roleplay and/or idea). I then add them up and that is it.

The numbers are the following:

Please update your sheets and let me know if anyone has gone up a level. If anyone has gone up a level, get back to me privately. Multiclassed, do not forget that you split that into both your classes.

Vincent: Mendi only played about half the period and you didn't answer in character for this last turn!

Questions, comments, and suggestions please.

L8r,

Fabian