| Speaker |
Action |
Begin
Flashback |
| Skorri |
Now, we've talked long and hard before
decidin' you folks should head north and so I've also sent word to the Lonisi and Brown
Boars requestin' that they allow you lot to cross their tulas. I've gotten word back now
that they've agreed to hear your cases so I thought I'd give you what hints I could on how
to deal with each of them. Skorri pulls out the map and marks out the
tulas.
First, let me tell you my thoughts about the Lonisi hard as this may be. As
you know, our two clans had been on the best of terms for a long long time. We
raided together, drunk together and married together. Chief Elusu Half-hand and I might as
well have been brothers and our two clans one that's how close we were. Of course that's
made his betrayal all the harder. I still can't believe that he's thrown in his lot with
the Pharaoh. I tell you it still hurts and that's why I've had no more truck with him than
I've had to since I got the news. Anyway, I wouldn't trust him at all now. Make
whatever deal you have to, to cross their lands but mark my words you better be clear of
there before the Pharaoh shows up in Smithstone.
Now the Brown Boars are a rough lot. People call them mean bastards but they're
all right if you deal with them square. Sure, they raid practically everyone at the
drop of a hat and are a general pain in the butt but if it weren't for them, them trolls
would long ago have closed off the north trail. Keep that in mind, by the way, the
Brown Boars hate everyone and everything but they especially hate trolls.
Which brings me to the trolls. I don't know much about them and don't want to but
I do know if you get them riled they can come down on you like a landslide. Most times
they seem to be fighting the Brown Boars, though I hear that they often how problems on
their Stone Wood border. Anyway, stay away from them and you should be OK.
As for the Stone Wood, well I know even less about there than I do about the trolls and
I'm most thankful for that. All the nasty Chaos beasties in these parts hail from
there and I'm most grateful that our lands are far enough away that we seldom see them.
Hopefully you'll have nothing to do with them but if you do you better be prepared to
fight hard or run fast.
Now the reason Stone Wood doesn't bother us much is because of the Fire Quartz
Clan. 'member when I said that the Brown Boars raid practically everyone? Well the
one clan they don't raid is the Fire Quartz. The Brown Boars may be mean but they ain't
crazy which is certainly what the Fire Quartz are. Who in their right mind would want to
tangle with fire-breathin' Uroxi (=Orlanthi Storm Bulls)? Lucky for everyone else
the Fire Quartz seem to like nothing better than killin' Chaos critters so no one else has
to deal with them ceptin' if Stone Wood is unusual quiet-like
Oh yeah, I nearly forgot, someone does deal with them. The trolls have some kind
of deal with the Fire Quartz that lets them travel on each others land and they've been
known to raid together into the Stone Woods. I even hear that there is a shrine to
Zorak Zoran on the Fire Quartz tula.
The other people that deals with the Fire Quartz is the Oak Tree clan. They pay a grain
tribute to the Fire Quartz though officially it's a gift to the 'Defenders Aginst Chaos'.
Their deal with the Fire Quartz also allows them to tax the Troll caravans that come
across Fire Quartz lands, then cross the Oak Tree tula on their way to Jansholm. We've had
so-so dealings with them with no more than the normal raidin' going on along the our
borders.
Let's see, what else can I tell ya? Hmm, north of the Brown Boars and south of the
Balmyr is mainly nothing. Keep an eye out for raiders, robbers and that ilk and you
should be OK. And stay off the other side of the Marzeel as its crawling with beast
raiders and those cursed horse people. Nothin' but trouble that lot.
As for the Balmyr, my name don't run so far north and there's not much that I can tell
you other than I've sent word to one of their ring members, Korol by name, whot happens to
be in Smithstone just now and he's agreed to help start talks with his chief.
Heck, a man can work up a powerful thirst after talkin' so much. You boys got any
questions?
Skorri leans back and takes a long pull from a beer tankard that had been urgently
trying to attract his attention for some time. |
| Skerri |
The Lonisi have made their beds and we shall
leave them to lie in them. You said that they won't make trouble until after the
Pharoah gets here. Beside we all have kin among them and they won't want to risk kin
strife by attacking us. As long as we can get past them and the Brown Boars in one
piece we'll be okay. The Balmyri are the ones that concern me.
If they refuse us passage we will have to find another route or at worse they might want
us to submit to them as their thralls and I refuse to be their thralls when I wouldn't be
the Pharaoh's. We'll have to hope that our words and memories of Orlanth's
hospitality will be sufficient. |
| Skorri |
I appreciate your spirit daughter but know
that there is no other route to Dragon Pass other than that through the Balmyri. It
would be death for you to travel through the Beast Lands and the mountains are impassible. |
| Skerri |
Well then we will make nice to the Balmyri and
win our people passage. I swear this by Vinga! |
| Skorri |
Aha! That's my girl. Keep Blunt on his toes
you will. As for the rest of you ...
Turns to face everyone, beer tankard in hand.
Remember what it means to be an Orlanthi.
No one can make you do anything.
Violence is always an option.
There is always another way.
Now be off with you for we all have much to do. |
End
Flashback |
An
Interlude |
| (A Different) Narrator |
After pondering on Skorri's
wisdom someone notices a stranger sitting at the fire. It's the rakish stranger from
The Grumpy Dwarf. He is dressed for the trail in nondescript clothing that you
realize on closer inspection is of excellent quality. Orlev asks him who the hell he
is and where he came from. His name you learn is Harvar Hengallson and he knows the
Orlanthi greeting. He says he is from Esrolia and is in these lands looking for
adventure. He tells you that he met Skerri in the city of Nochet, a place he tells
you that makes Smithstone look like the outhouse it is. He says that he met Skerri
again in Smithstone and lacking anything better to do he decided to lend his sword to your
efforts. He says that he has been following you all day and just caught up.
Skerri smirks and mutters, 'After all the work has been done', of course. He smiles
back at her, stands and drawing a slim sword from its sheath he swears an oath on Orlanth
to follow Skerri until she releases him from his oath. She accepts his oath and
tells the party that he is a good man with a weapon. Cat Boy laughs at this and
smiles knowingly. Skerri ignores him. Questioning makes it apparent that he knows
far more about the Motherland than any of you. He seems to be a nice individual but
if you talk to him you get the distinct impression that he takes very little serious and
he might even be making fun of you. Everyone decides to turn in. |
Interlude
Ends |
| Narrator |
Dawn breaks and what shall we
speak of? Quickly gulping down a bowl of hot porridge? Getting a bunch of uncooperative
cattle moving on yet another rainy morning? The mud? The songs you now sing about mud and
cows (not very nice ones I might add)? But no, today is the day in which you enter the
lands of the Lonisi. Per, Snorri and Cat-boy have come in from their scouting
just in case something happens when you cross over the boundary into the Lonisi tula. And
sure enough, they soon come riding back to the main body saying there is large group of
people waiting ahead, some mounted and some on foot.
The group moves ahead to check it out (Korol stays well back with the cattle to make
sure they don't stampede or something) and indeed there is a quite a large group of people
waiting but keen eyes soon notice that many of the people waiting are unarmed boys and
girls, while the mounted people are recognized as members of the Lonisi clan ring.
You approach and as as you approach, the riders on the other side dismount and walk
towards you. One, who you recognize as Aslander Derikson Law-speaker to the Lonisi Clan
Ring, steps forward. |
| Aslander Derikson |
Steps forward with both hands open. I,
Aslander Derikson, Lawspeaker of the Lonisi Clan Ring speaking on behalf of Chief Elusu
Half-hand of the Lonisi Clan, welcome you to the lands of the Lonisi. To my brothers
and sisters of the Amber Clan I can deny nothing. |
| Elgane Endalsdotter |
Steps forward bearing a cup in which an ember
glows in a bed of earth. I, Elgane Endalsdotter, Earth Mother of the Lonisi
Clan Ring welcome you to our homes and fires. As long as you are on the lands on the
Lonisi no door shall be closed to you. |
| Dangmag Dangmarson |
Steps forward bearing a loaf of bread. I,
Dangmag Dangmarson, Farmer of the Lonisi Clan Ring offer you this bread. Nothing that the
Lonisi lands produce can be denied to you. |
| Iskalli Endalson |
Steps forward presenting a glowing shield. I,
Iskalli Endalson, Shield of the Lonisi Clan Ring offer you my shield. As long as you
command me none may approach you without passing me first. |
| Narrator |
For a moment you are taken
aback. Orlanthi greeting are elaborate and complex, none more so when clans meet.
Whatever you were thinking about the Lonisi, you could hardly have expected this. Even
when relations were at their best between the Lonisi and the Urlanging, and they were very
good, Skorri would never have gotten a greeting like this. If you accept this greeting,
you would be in a position to demand the wealth of the tribe and realistically expect to
get it! Of course, greetings and obligations tend to be reciprocal. |
| Narrator's Note |
Note 1: It is not all that
unusual for greeting parties to withdraw a bit to discuss how they should respond. Of
course a lengthy or short withdrawal, the distance of withdrawal, and many other factors
would all have implications. Note 2: It is known that the 'pro-pharaoh' members
of clan Urlanging were adopted by the Lonisi. |
| Cedric |
Thank you for your generous welcome. Please
excuse us while we consider our response. Cedric herds the remaining characters
back out of earshot. |
| Cedric |
Wow, I haven’t seen a welcome like
that since those twin redheads well, that’s a different story. Skerri, I advise
the following.
First, we respond quickly, each has his say then Skerri chooses our response and
delivers it. Delay could be worse than the wrong answer. |
| Cedric |
Second, I advise we respond in kind. They
have given us the clan’s wealth hey clearly want something that will cost us dear.
This is true. As much as anyone I dislike trading colts not yet born. {cultural
equivalent of ‘signing blank checks’} But they have said there is no
limit on their price for this service. That kind of support could be the difference
between feast and starvation this winter.
Further, they know that for this service we could beggar their clan, take both their
wealth and their weaponthanes – so they will not want us to be in a hostile frame of
mind after we complete the service. The only out is if the service is a suicide mission
well remember what Skorri said no one can make us do anything, there is always another
way, and violence is always an option.
It is time for a bold stroke.
Third, I suggest the following form for the response.
There were four statements we respond with four statements.
Statement 1 They deny us nothing. Skerri responds, names position, says we will deny
them nothing.
Statement 2 – All doors open. We don’t have doors so Per responds, names
himself as Oath bound to Skerri, gives them dust from our trail and says they are welcome
to travel with us.
Statement 3 – Nothing the land produces denied us. We don’t have land so I
respond, name self, give them wind stirred by Orlanth (use feather and affinity) and say
they will be foremost in our prayers. This may be what they want Hero Quest support.
Statement 4 – None may approach without passing them. Probably the nut of the
matter, Orlev clearly is the respondent, names position, gives them a sword, and says as
long as we travel their lands, our swords will fight beside theirs. Notice two limitations
first, once we clear their lands we need not come back and fight for them, second they
can’t send us without coming themselves. |
| Orlev |
I think Cedric’s advice is most sage. And this I can tell you, they are genuine in their
statements, intending no deceit at this time.
However, I must add this caution. Chief Elusu is not here and could disown what is said
but to do so he would have to disown and at least exile these ring members and still pay
compensation for their promises. This is what
Heort says.
I might also add that Blunt would have to do the same to overrule any agreement
we make on his behalf.
And finally, as you know, oaths sworn on the Sword of Truth and Book of Law are
binding though it might be insulting that we do not take them at their word alone. |
| Skerri |
This worries me, they offer so much and ask
nothing in return. And where is the rest of the clan? Where are the
warriors and farmers? Is Iskalli offering us protection from his own
people? He said none may approach US without passing HIM. This worries
me. However I can find no fault in what Cedric and Orlev advise so I agree with
their plan. Unless anyone else has suggestions to add I say that we follow it.
I would not reject Orlanth's hospitality when offered it. |
| Per |
Looks to Skerri. You read too much
into the Shield's statement, Captain. He states quite clearly that his protection is at
your command. Anyway, I'll be back in a moment; I need to gather the materials for my
gift.
turns, hurries back to his mount. He returns a moment later bearing a small bowl filled
with dust.
Ready when you are, Captain. |
| Skerri |
Perhaps you read too little Scout. When
someone unexpectedly throws open his home and deeds his possessions to you supposedly in
return for nothing and for no good reason I feel that I must wonder why. As wise men
say, "Beware Esrolians and the gifts they bear." Still, best to put your
best foot forward. Sighs and dismounts. Walks forward cradling her
spear in one arm with her shield slung on her back.
I am Skerri Brightspear, daughter of Skorri Manysons, wife of Blunt
Ashbjorn. I come to you bearing Blunt's will and carrying his words. I
speak for the Amber Clan and we in turn deny you nothing. |
| Per |
steps forward and presents the bowl. I,
Per Rasmussen, Oathfollower to Skerri Brightspear and the Amber Clan, offer you the dust
from our trail. We welcome you to join us in our journey to new lands. |
| Narrator |
Was it your imagination or did
the Lonisi party appear particularly interested in Per's statement, especially Iskalli
Endalson. |
| Cedric |
Cedric steps forward. I, Cedric Fox,
Weaponthane of the Amber Clan, offer you the wind of our faith.
Cedric raises pauses to raise his hands into a prayer position and blow between his
palms. Concealed between his hands is the storm feather which vibrates in his breath
and wind currents begin to flow. He uses his Wind affinity to improvise the Breath
of Orlanth, a gentle warm wind which he directs towards the greeting party.
You shall be first in the prayers of the Amber Clan.
Cedric then moves slowly for a while to prevent an increase in wind speed. |
| Narrator |
A rather strong wind starts to
blow, swirling about both parties. |
| Orlev |
Draws sword and advances. This sword is
placed at your disposal. As long as the Amber Clan breathes Lonisi air and eats Lonisi
bread none may come against the Lonisi without facing this sword beside yours. |
| Narrator |
The wind continues to blow,
growing stronger. Obviously Orlanth's attention has been attracted to this important
meeting. Also obvious is that the Lonisi party seems both relieved and pleased at
your response. |
| Aslander Derikson |
We thank you for your kind words and beg the
following boon from you. Chief Elusu would like to speak to you in person but he
rides the Brown Boar border. We have mounts prepared for your use, and these youths
can help your men move the cattle. We have prepared holding areas and feed along
your route so that you might have no concern over this responsibility. Speaking
of cattle, Korol promised us one cow for every 15 he brought across our lands. These
six cows I now give to you to deal with as you wish. |
| Narrator's Note |
Korol is within eye-shot but
not ear-shot (normal ranges anyway). |
| Cedric |
Whispers to Skerri Get them to pick out
the cattle, with Orlev looking on. We'd get snookered by Korol. Or gift them back to Korol
for future considerations. In any case, it doesn't have to be done now. Let's ride! |
| Skerri |
Whispers back. Good suggestion.
Speaking louder.
These cattle we in turn gift to our good friend Korol.
Remounts.
Let's be off then. |
| Harvar Hengallson |
Rides over to Skerri and whispers something in
her ear. |
| Skerri |
Frowning. Here in the bush we talk out
loud among friends.
She shakes her head and spurs her horse over to the Lonisi. |
| Per |
looks quizzically at Harvar, shrugs, mounts his
horse, and follows Skerri. |
| Harvar Hengallson |
Harvar smirks and rides after Skerri. |
| Orlev |
Friend Aslander, we have some gifts that we
would like to present to Chief Elusu as a sign of the respect that Clan Amber holds for
him. Points at the gift wagon. |
| Aslander Derikson |
Hesitates briefly ... There will be time
for gifts later ... but it would be good if you could bring something. Can you
choose something now that will show your respect but not slow us down? |
| Narrator |
Skerri quickly picks out the
most valuable and portable items to bring with them and distributes them to be carried.
The party (Skerri, Cedric, Per, Orlev, Cat-boy, Snorri and Harvar but no followers as the
pace will be far too hard for Alynxes and the other men are needed with the cattle) then
mount up on the horses provided by the Lonisi (with the exception of Orlev who politely
declines their offer of a mount). Korol makes a move to join but is quickly
cold-shouldered by the Lonisi. Korol covers up by coming over to wish you farewell
and good trip until you rejoin him. You respond in kind. You follow the road and ride
hard. You stop occasionally to change horses at steadings (with the exception
of Orlev who seems to have no trouble keeping up the pace on his mount) along the way and
have a bite to eat, but no break last longer than it takes for you to get off one horse,
have a second saddled up and then back to the road once more. [As an aside, you note the
road is very well maintained and remember that this was so all the way to Smithstone.]
For a day and a night you ride and then, as the second day breaks, you can see the
hills that mark the end of the Lonisi lands and the beginning of the Brown Boar's. Far
off, the towering peaks of the Stormwalk Mountains, the border between Heortland and
the wastelands on the other side, can just be made out through the morning drizzle.
Shortly after dawn, you leave the road and head directly toward the hills and you soon
reach a large steading which appears to be your ultimate destination. Weary bones
and sore bottoms get off horses while members of the steading thrust welcome bowls of
steaming porridge and tankards of foamy ale into your hands. |
| Aslander Derikson |
After talking briefly with a well-dressed man. Chief
Elusu has already ridden out with his thanes. I have sent a messenger to call him
back but there's no telling when he'll arrive. Until then please feel free to do as you
wish.
This is Thane Cedric. The Thane has prepared a sauna, or hot food is available in the
yard, while bedding has been laid out inside. Please feel free to ask for anything
else you might need. |
| Narrator's Note: |
Orlev, Cedric and Skerri may
attempt to do something (other than the above) before Chief Elusu arrives (using Stay
Awake). Others may add color comments. |
| Skerri |
On behalf of the Amber Clan I thank you Thane
Cedric for your generosity. If there is anything that I or my followers can do for
you while we are here, speak and it shall be done. Skerri gifts the Thane with the
smallest of the treasures they are carrying for Chief Elusu. |
| Orlev |
Thank you Thane Cedric, I shall tell all I
meet of the wonderful hospitality you have shown us. Truly, as Heort says, 'A Man is
better known by the gift he gives than those he receives.' Orlev then spends some
time wiping down and taking care of his horse, as it refuses to let anyone else handle it.
The horse does not seem particularly tired despite its 30 hour ride. |
| Per |
Thank you for your generous hospitality,
Thane Cedric, you are most kind. rubs his eyes and turns to Skerri.
If you don't mind, Captain, I'd like to retire until Chief Elusu arrives.
On receiving a nod from Skerri, heads towards the building and some badly needed
sleep. |
| Cedric (the Fox) |
Cedric also thanks his name-father for his hospitality.
The rest of the party had always wondered where their Cedric got that outlandish
foreign name.
Who do we fight, blood brother of my father? You know, of course, that I will be by your
side.
|
| Thane Cedric |
Ah Cedric, good to see you again. You
have much of your father about you. How is the old bear? Perhaps we can talk a
while. The rest of you, my thanks for your generous offers and words. If
you require anything just ask. |
| Skerri |
Her eyebrows raise and she does not bother to
hide an enormous yawn. She stretches so that all her muscles crack and then speaks. I
think that I shall take advantage of that offer of a sauna and then will retire until
Chief Elusu arrives. Nods. Thane Cedric.
She turns and walks towards the sauna. |
| Harvar |
Sounds good to me as well. I'll join
you. |
| Skerri |
A strange look crosses Skerri's face fleetingly
then she shrugs and keeps going towards the sauna. |
| Narrator |
A few hours later a rider
comes thundering into the courtyard announcing the imminent arrival of Chief Elusu.
There is just sufficient time for the group to prepare themselves when the chief and a
small entourage ride up. The entourage is very obviously prepared for fighting with
everyone in full armour (with the notable exception of one near-naked individual who you
recognize as the infamous Bolak the Bersark, the Lonisi Clan Champion). Chief Elusu, a
bear-like man of Skorri's age, dismounts, throws a riding cloak aside and rushes over to
embrace Skerri (who later reports that this is probably not a man you would want to
wrestle with [at least in anger]). |
| Chief Elusu |
Skerri, good to see you again. It has been
too long ... since you headed off to those foreign parts I believe. Doesn't seemed to have
harmed you though. That Blunt is a lucky man. Turns to the group as a whole and
gestures expansively.
I, Elusu, Chief of the Lonisi welcome my brothers and sister from Clan Amber.
What's mine is yours. |
| Cedric (the fox) |
For once remains silent and lets Skerri get in
the first word. J |
| Skerri |
Mutters to self. Will wonders never
cease. It is good to see you again too Chief Elusu. Ever the bear.
On behalf of the Amber Clan I thank you for your hospitality and offer you these
gifts.
Points to the place where she and the party had spread out the gifts.
We would like to discuss what terms you would impose for the passage of the Amber
Clan through your lands.
(Obviously Skerri is not that pleased to see the man who she feels has betrayed
her father and her people so she is being textbook polite rather than effusive). |
| Chief Elusu |
Chief Elusu goes over and spends a polite amount
of time reviewing the gifts, a few of which he hands to Thane Cedric or other Lonisi in
the vicinity. Truly the Amber Clan is as generous as it is noble (said with
sincerity). These gifts shall be displayed in my hall so all shall know of it.
And now I have some slight baubles for you in return.
For Skerri, a bright shield to match her bright spear.
For Cedric, these gloves that have traveled far.
For Per, this cloak that travels well.
For Hend, this bag will be very useful.
For Snorri, a bow which shoots straight.
For Orlev, a helm to ward your keen sight.
And for you all, my thanks for coming. |
| Narrator's Note |
Chief Elusu has been unusually
generous in his return gifts. You suspect that some of the items are clan regalia. You
may use these items for the remainder of this episode. Then, if you wish to keep
them (and you still have them), you may cement the item by paying a hero point. In the
meantime just note on your character sheet that you have a 'cloak that travels well' or
whatever. |
| Skerri |
Seems quite taken aback by the gift. I
thank you Chief Elusu.
Stops as she is quite at a loss for words. |
| Per |
humbly accepts the cloak when offered and dons
it. I will treasure this cloak always. Thank you, Chief Elusu. |
| Orlev |
accepts helm Indeed you speak the truth,
for keen sight is needed to know the truth and the truth is needed to know when to strike.
I thank you for your gift. |
| Cat Boy |
Accepts the bag. Thank you, Chief
Elusu. It will always hold a gift for your people every time I pass through their
lands. |
| Cedric |
Accepts gloves. Thank you, Chief Elusu.
When the time is right, I would like to hear more of the travels of these gloves that I
might honor them properly. |
| Chief Elusu |
Ah but Skerri, it tears my heart that you
treat me as your father does. Will you turn away my words as he turned away my
messengers? I thought to talk with him but he would not even listen and
now I fear for him and all with him. People who are as close to me as my own flesh
and blood marching to their death and for what? Yes, as Heort said, 'No one can make you
do anything' and 'violence is always an option' ... but 'there is always another way'.
Gestures to all.
Come let us go inside and discuss things. There is much to speak of. |
| Skerri |
My father is an old and tired man and he
does not want to pull up his roots and find a new land like we do. It is a great
sadness to him and to me that so many of our people are devoted, foolish or scared enough
to die with him. I do not look forward to losing my father and fifty brothers but
they have made their minds up and they are determined to die. Hangs her head,
throws her cloak over her head and stands quietly for a moment. Are those muffled
sobs you hear? Seems unlikely from such a stalwart woman warrior as Skerri.
{Editorial note : in Orlanthi culture men are the openly emotional ones while women tend
to be more reserved]. Skerri lifts her head and you see that her eyes are suspiciously
red. She glares at all around her forbidding comment and says.
The Urlanging have sharpened their spears and turned their backs on peace and are
ready to die for what they know is right. I will not hear words against them.
Indeed, "No one can make you do anything", and that is what they are
doing. What we are doing is something else and that is what I will speak about.
The Urlanging are the past, the Amber Clan is the future. Let us look to the
future while never forgetting the past. Now let us talk about the present and the
future.
Pauses and takes a deep breath..
Your welcome and that of your people has been more than generous Chief Elusu.
Its extreme warmth and generosity frankly puzzles me and I would gladly take this
chance to sit and understand the import of all this.
Turns to go inside. |
| Harvar Hengallson |
He is standing at the back keeping out of the way
and only the scouts hear him mutter. These bush people see everything in black and
white, where is the grey?
Keeps muttering to himself as he turns to follow Skerri inside. |
| Per |
gives Harvar a dirty look. |
| Skerri |
Would you please wait outside until
after we are done talking about clan business, Harvar? |
| Harvar Hengallson |
Stops short. Oh, of course Skerri, of
course.
Turns to lean up against an outbuilding and looks nonchalant. |
| Narrator |
And as Harvar braces the wall,
the remainder of the party and Chief Elusu enters Thane Cedric's main dwelling. You
enter a room that is tastefully (for an Orlanthi anyway) furnished. A number
of stools have been placed in a circle and small side tables have been set up with
food and drink. Chief Elusu sits down and the rest of you follow suit. |
| Chief Elusu |
Now I know the lot of you have been
powerful curious as to what is going on, so let me tell you straight out and then its up
to you to decide what to do. As you know, we Lonisi have decided not to fight the
Pharaoh. This decision was no easier for us to reach than it was for your clan to
decide to fight.
Of course, in your clan, a group of you decided to head out into Dragon Pass seeking a
new beginning and good for you, 'There's always another way'. So perhaps it will come as
no surprise to you then, that part of our clan has come to the same decision.
[Chief Elusu pauses to let this statement sink in (and pull back a generous slug
of mead).]
At first we thought we would do the same as the Urlanging. Support our
daughter clan, see them off into Dragon Pass and wish them well. However, we
foolishly thought that the Brown Boars would be reasonable about the matter.
Part of our agreement with the Pharaoh is that the Lonisi will not leave the Lonisi
Tula this year, nor will they allow anyone else to cross the Lonisi Tula. Their emissary
did, however, agree to the specific exception that clans heading into Dragon Pass could be
allowed passage.
Well, not too long after that those fool Brown Boars show up and say they want to march
their fyrd over our Tula this Fire Season on their way to the big dust-up with the Pharaoh
down south, the same one your Pa be heading to Skerri. Well, of course I have to say sorry
and let me tell you that those Brown Boars were powerful sore and said they if they
couldn't fight the Pharaoh they would find something else to do with their time. But I
later heard that the Brown Boars had managed to strike a deal with the Oak Trees so I
thought no more of their words, figuring they would be busy enough this year not to bother
with us.
The Brown Boars do seem to be powerful good at holding grudges though. During
Sacred Time I sent a delegation to them requesting permission for our daughter clan to
cross their tula on the way to Dragon Pass. Was willing to pay a good price for the
privilege too. Brown Boars get all smiley though (a sure sign of trouble
that) and say 'Oh no, no payment is necessary from our good friends. Lonisi are free to
come and go on the Brown Boar tula ... but only as long as they happen to be in the form
of smoke from funeral pyres.' Right after that they swore not one Lonisi would cross their
Tula is any form that resembled a living state. They said more but you got the gist
there.
So ... where is all this heading? I want the Amber Clan to adopt the Lonisi
who want to go to Dragon Pass. In exchange, I will do whatever I can to aid you in
your trip north.
A few things to keep in mind while you're thinking about this. The Brown Boars are
powerful serious about stopping my people from heading north. If you adopt maybe
they'll let them go but maybe not. Better if they never find out but you could be
buying yourself a powerful lot of trouble.
As for who wants to go, it's Iskalli Endalson and most of his Elmali followers and a
handful of others. The durn fool has somehow gotten the idea that by not fighting the
Pharaoh we have surrendered the tula and he can't accept that as a defender. Well, there's
always another way so who am I to say him nay? Anyway, he and his followers number a
couple of hundred all told. I should add that Iskalli has asked for one seat on the clan
ring so that he and his followers can be represented.
If you can agree to that, I'll be most generous in outfitting you as you cross our
lands. After all, we'll be kin! And there's one more thing I can offer that no one
else can. As you know, the Lonisi Clan has played host to the Voice of Gustbran for
some time.
[Narrators Note: The Voice of Gustbran is essentially the high
priest of Gustbran. He is also the most renowned smith in all of Heortland. He does
not belong to any clan but rather lives with one at their invitation.]
He has approached me to help him place his leading apprentice. If you agree to
adopt I'll recommend that he place him with you. Land's sake though, don't let word of
this get out. Wouldn't be the first time someone has tried to kidnap the Voice or one of
his apprentices to get their services.
Finally, no matter what you decide, Amber Clan is free to cross the Lonisi Tula.
Now, I suspect that you folks might want a moment or two to chew this over so I'll give
you some privacy. When you've decided, or if you have a questions, just give a
shout. Iskalli is out there as well if you want to talk to him.
Anything, you want to ask right off? |
| Skerri |
Skerri's leaps to her feet, eyes blazing. What
is there to ask and what is there to discuss? We came to you bearing trinkets and
you offer us in turn treasures. How can we refuse you, Uncle? You have
answered all my concerns about your people's warm greeting. The Amber clan is still
small and with a few words you have nearly doubled us. You gift us with great
treasures, offer us all your aid and send an apprentice of the Voice of Gustbran to us?
Again I say what is there to discuss and what is there to ask? My father and you
were like brothers and it hurt me greatly to be so cold to you, Uncle. Skorri would
be glad to hear that at least some of your people will be joining us.
Skerri shakes her head almost overcome with emotion.
No, Uncle there is nothing to discuss, the Lonisi are welcome to join us in our
trek. They will be Lonisi no longer, but rather Amber clan members. Here I
stand and I say that the symbol of the Amber clan shall be two interlinked circles to
represent the past friendship of the Lonisi and the Urlanging and the present and future
of the Amber clan. And as far as a seat on the Inner Ring goes I will give my own up
so that Iskalli can have it.
Moves forward and hugs Elusu.
And if the Brown Bears want to kill Lonisi they will see nothing but Amber clan,
yet if they prove blind to the Amber clan then they will have to deal with all of us.
This I swear with Blunt's voice.
Overcome with her emotions Skerri sits and hides her face in her hands. |
| Cat Boy |
I agree with Skerri, we must let them come
with us. For after we all we did invite them to, and have we not always been like
family? |
| Chief Elusu |
Stands with hand on Skerri's shoulder. Ah,
it does me good to see such a response from my kin. I hoped, but I also feared if
you understand me. Let me call in Iskalli then and you can put any questions you
have to us, and affirm what you just said in his hearing. He's a cautious man is
Iskalli, but that's the nature of the Elmali.
Chief Elusu moves to the door and calls in Iskalli Endalson, who enters and faces the
party. |
| Iskalli Endalson |
Has a decision been reached then? And so
fast? It must be very good news or very bad news then. |
| Skerri |
Moves over to welcome Iskalli with a hug.
She then steps back and addresses him. It is good news friend Iskalli. Any
of the Lonisi that wish to join with us of the Amber Clan and place themselves under our
chief Blunt Ash-Bjorn Larsson are welcome. And I, Skerri Skorrisdaughter will give
up my place on the clan ring to you friend Iskalli as a sign of our welcome. Once
you join with us I will be glad to greet you as brother. |
| Orlev |
aside to Skerri in a quiet voice The law
states that it is for Blunt to decide the composition of the ring. The clan may not be
able to afford giving up the blessings of the traveling lady, so another may have to stand
aside.
Steps forward and hugs Iskalli.
And I welcome you as a sword welcomes its shield. A clan needs to both defend and
strike and you will be a welcome addition. |
| Skerri |
Whispers back True Orlev, but I meant what
I said. If I refuse to sit Blunt will have to replace me with someone and who better
than Iskalli? |
| Iskalli Endalson |
A broad smile lights what you guess is a normally
stoic face. The best news then. I look forward to greeting my new brothers and
sisters of the Amber Clan. |
| Skerri |
What we would like to know are how many
weaponsthanes will be joining us, how many fyrd, how many men, women and children, what
sorts of skills do they possess, and how soon they will be ready to leave. |
| Iskalli Endalson |
Well, we number about 200, which includes
about 40 fit for the fyrd and 3 thanes. All of us are good farmers and have all the skills
necessary for that. As to when, with this news we can be ready for when Blunt passes
here. Truly, we would have left some time past if it were not for the Brown Boars.
And this could well still be a problem. The Brown Boars have sworn to let none of us
pass and should they recognise anyone as a son or daughter of Lonisi there is bound to be
trouble. We will speak of this to Blunt when he comes.
However, together, I expect we can overcome any problem and should the Boars seek to
harry us they may find that they have more than they counted on their hands.
Iskalli takes and raises a cup of mead.
To the Amber Clan! Long may the tula of the Amber Clan stand, and as long as it
stands we shall ward it from harm. |
| Chief Elusu |
Raises his cup as well To the Amber Clan!
May its name be known as long as the wind blows and carried as far! |
| Skerri |
Toasts as well. To the Amber Clan!
Great may our name grow and great the deeds of its members.
Drains drink in one pass.
The numbers you add to us warm my heart as they add almost a third again to our
number, and there is safety to be found in numbers.
Though battle, not law is my normal field I have a plan for dealing with these Boars
that hopefully will not involve battle. Once we have adopted the Lonisi as Amber
Clan we will make formal notice to the Brown Boars that we have done this. If they
still will not let the formerly Lonisi among us pass unchallenged then we shall bring
legal suit against them claiming that due to the formal adoption they are now Amber Clan,
not Lonisi.
She pauses.
...or better yet we shall invite the Brown Boars to a feast on the Lonisi - Brown
Boar border and during the feast we will formally adopt the Lonisi. Then they will
have witnessed the adoption and hopefully cannot gainsay it. And if they still
refuse then we shall bring suit against them OR if we think we have a good chance of
success we shall fight them. What do you think? |
| Narrator |
For a time the company
concentrates on drinking and considering these options. |
| Cedric |
The Brown Boars are still spiteful at being
thwarted - and won't feel much like honoring an adoption. Bringing suit would slow us down
- even if we won. But perhaps there is another way . . . The adoption ceremony would no
doubt be accompanied by the exchange of many gifts and during this exchange, the Lonisi
could offer Amber clan a gift of land. A mere formality, none would expect Blunt to accept
- after all the clan is moving on. But to everyone's surprise, Blunt does accept - and
requests a stretch of land twenty paces wide, bordering the river and extending from the
northernmost to southernmost stretch of the Lonisi Tula.
Chief Elusu is very surprised and points out to Blunt that stretch of land will be
washed away by the spring floods next year - as it is every year - so why does he want
land and especially land that is only good for one year. But Blunt insists and the Chief,
having made the offer, eventually accedes.
Then Blunt announces that Amber has made no treaty with foreign warlords and friends of
the Amber Clan are free to pass south to stand against the Pharaoh intruder! Chief Elusu
gets mightily angry, curses the day Blunt was born and storms off.
The last bit is important for two reasons. First, the Brown Boars need to see the
Lonisi suffer a humiliation equal to the one they think they suffered. Second, the
Pharaoh's agents must be convinced that the Lonisi acted in good faith by their agreement
and were tricked into letting the Brown Boars pass. For this reason, none of us could ever
reveal that this maneuver was planned.
The Brown Boars would be able to pass south, if they honor the adoption and if they are
acknowledged as friends of the Amber clan. (Which should help keep down the cost of
crossing Brown Bear territory.) But they would have to hurry, as it is much later then
they planned to set out. They probably won't have time to call out the fyrd - probably
just assemble the weapon thanes and head off to battle.
What would you say to this, Chief Elusu? |
| Skerri |
Shakes her head in wonder I knew there was
a good reason they called you the Fox, friend Cedric. There is only one flaw that I
can see with your suggestion and that is the warmth with which the Lonisi greeted
us. Surely there are spies for the Pharaoh among the Lonisi as there were among the
Urlanging. Won't Pharaoh be wary of suspected collusion between our peoples? I
still think the plan is a sound one but I worry that Pharaoh might not believe that the
whole land grant wasn't staged. However it is Chief Elusu's risk to take and perhaps
the plan is just cunning and twisted enough to fool the Brown Boars and the Pharaoh.
Though the Brown Boars won't need much fooling, for after all are not the Brown Boars
going to get exactly what they've wanted all along? Enough of your people though
will dislike this that it might appear more genuine to Pharaoh.
Ponders some more.
I think though it would be better that you appear carried away with exuberance and
generosity during the adoption and offer Blunt anything he wants rather than directly
offering him land. An offer of land would be too suspicious. Blunt's request
can still be exactly as Cedric described though.
As an alternative maybe Blunt can refuse all gifts and in frustration you ask him to
name his desire, which he does. That makes the perceived humiliation even
greater. This way your honour is not impugned Uncle, though Blunt gets a reputation
for greed and trickiness. Hmm, the latter's not bad though...
It's your decision to make Uncle and not an easy one. |
| Per |
frowns slightly and then grins. I never
heard such a bold plan before. The Trickster would be proud of both of you.
takes a long pull from his tankard.
I see two dangers with this plan, Captain. First, the Brown Boars may not take the
bait. Twenty paces width with a river on one flank and an angry chief on the other isn't a
very good tactical position to put yourself in and I'm sure the Brown Boars would see that
too, especially when they see Chief Elusu's fyrd shadowing them as would be necessary in
order to maintain the illusion of anger.
Second, if Chief Blunt gets a reputation for trickiness, won't that make our dealings
with other clans more difficult? Once word of Chief Elusu's humiliation gets out, the
other chiefs will probably be much less favourably disposed since they know they cannot
trust the Amber Clan. |
| Cedric |
Shrugs Nothing in life is certain.
The Pharaoh may or may not be fooled. He will know the Lonisi greeting - but he will
also know that many Amberites have a distaste for the Lonisi decision. He could reasonably
assume Blunt is one of those. And even if he isn't fooled, he hasn't been publicly defied
so if he makes an issue out of it the other clans will be unsettled with his leadership -
not something that he needs right now.
The Brown Boars may not take the corridor. But at least they may be more positively
disposed towards the Amber clan. And if they do take the corridor, they have all those
ex-Lonisi Amberites passing through their land, so their tactical position is not as
one-sided as all that.
Blunt gets a reputation for trickiness - well that is a two edged sword, sometimes
good, sometimes bad. But this "trick" was in defiance of the Pharaoh and in the
Dragon Pass most clans will see that as a good trick. Overall, probably helps his
reputation.
Just to add to the list of problems, I would point out several. Formal relations
between Amber and Lonisi cool for the next few years when the Lonisi could have been a
good trading partner to the benefit of both clans. Also, don't underestimate the
"illusion" of the anger. Most Lonisi will be genuinely angry.
Most importantly, Chief Elusu will have been publicly humiliated. It doesn't help him
or his clan. Of all the prices we could ask of the Lonisi - pride is perhaps the greatest.
Are you prepared to pay this price Chief Elusu? |
| Skerri |
Another question is, is Blunt prepared to
accept this reputation? He is not called Blunt for nothing. We will have to
contact him and explain this plan to him in some detail. Sighs deeply.
Just maybe like the Trickster [Hawks and spits on the floor while making a
gesture to ward off evil] we are starting to get too carried away with our own
cleverness for our own good and we need to look at our options that do not involve the
loss of honour for anyone. Perhaps we should go talk to the Brown Boars and see what
they have to say to us before we make any final decisions? This may tip our hand in
future scheming but on the other hand perhaps we can make some other arrangement with them
that does not involved trickery. Remember that there is always another way. |
| Per |
nods in agreement. Exactly, there is no
need to be tricky when the straightforward approach has not been tried.
looks to Chief Elusu.
Chief Elusu, you have negotiated many times with the Brown Boars. How were they to
deal with before the break in relations? Would you describe them as tough and honourable
or greedy and tricky? |
| Chief Elusu |
Gazes at Cedric with some admiration. Well,
this is a tricksy idea. Are you sure you are not a follower of Eurmal?
As for my response, well ... I cannot say I am keen on the idea of being taken for a
fool but I could put up with that if I thought it would help my kin.
However, I have heard that the Brown Boars have already negotiated passage rights
through the Oak Tree tula so I don't know how interested they might be in this plan.
As Skerri suggested, it might be worthwhile to see what the Brown Boars want before
making any final decisions.
Turns to Per
As for how I would describe the Brown Boars ... well they're tough no doubt about
that, mean as well, but straightforward in that they tell you just what they think of you,
over and over I might add. Nope, nothing tricksy about them and to give them there due, I
wouldn't call them more greedy than anyone else.
I'll also say that once they give there word they keep it. And in this case, that might
be a problem as they've sworn that no Lonisi will cross their soil. How they'll respond to
your adoption plans and the like I can't say but it'll depend on how much they like you,
though it might be better to say how little they hate you. |
| Skerri |
Then let us rest, get new mounts and head out
to visit these Boars. They know that the bulk of the Urlanging are staying to fight
Pharaoh so maybe they will be disposed to listen to us. If the only thing stopping
us from crossing their tula is that they will not let Lonisi cross perhaps my idea of the
adoption making the Lonisi Amber clan members will work after all. I hope it will
though maybe the Boars will ask for something in return that we are unable to offer.
Let us go visit them though, after all we do not have the time to spend discussing things
to death. We will need gifts for these Boars and ours are still back in the wain so
maybe you can lend us some goods in the meantime Uncle. Let us go visit these Boars
and give them no reason to hate us.
Muttering to self as she walks over to the mead Bloody men, clever at
complicating simple plans that's all... |
| Cedric |
Shrugs |
| Chief Elusu |
I expect that if you ride in a somewhat more
leisurely fashion than how you arrived here, you and your wain should reach the border
with the Brown Boars at about the same time. By all accounts, Korol has been able to
make good time. Iskalli, would you be so good as to escort them to the border,
though not too close if you get my meaning. No point in getting the Boars all
excited. |
| Iskalli Endalson |
It would be both an honour and a
pleasure. Turns to the party.
Perhaps I will get a chance to know my new family. |
| Narrator |
And so the two sides make their
farewells. Soon after your discussion closes, Chief Elusu and his warrior
thanes ride back to watch the border.
You, on the other hand, spend a relaxing evening accepting the hospitality of Thane
Cedric. A late start the next day finds you heading north and evening finds you accepting
the hospitality of one of Iskalli's cousins.
The next morning you continue to travel north at a slow pace until you reach the river
road and then, towards the end of the day, you overtake Korol who is setting up camp for
the night.
Iskalli tells you that he and other other Lonisi will remain the night and help you
break camp but then they'll leave as you'll soon be crossing into the tula of the Brown
Boars |
| Korol the Tight |
Well well well. We welcome your return.
I hope that you had a safe and profitable trip? And Iskalli, please do extend my
thanks to Chief Elusu for all the assistance we have received this trip. |
| Iskalli Endalson |
I will do so. I hope that you have a safe
journey all the way home and extend our greetings to Chief Harvar. |
| Narrator |
The next morning you break camp
amid a slight drizzle. Truly a fine day to drive cattle, no dust and the winds blowing on
your face. A good day to sing about cows. After a hearty breakfast of beef porridge you
begin to get underway. Once the cattle are moving, Iskalli and the rest of the
Lonisi make their farewells and ride off.
A few hours later you come to the Dark Water River, the border between the Lonisi and
Brown Boar Tula. The river is still high with the Storm Season runoff but the ford
still looks passable.
Just dimly on the other side of the river a pair of figures can be made out. The party
walks their horses across to see what kind of greeting the Brown Boars will award them.
When you finally exit the river you see two rather scruffy looking individuals leaning on
their spears observing you. |
| Orldag |
spits to one side Lookee here Orlev. We got
visitors. |
| Orlev |
Do tell. Think they got the stench of those
Lonisi traitors about them? Don't think even the river in full flood could wash that smell
away. |
| Orldag |
spits to the other side Don't think
so. These ones have more the look of cowards about them. |
| Orlev |
Do tell. They do have the appearance of folk
keen to run from a fight don't they. Wonder what they want? |
| Skerri |
My name is Skerri Brightspear and my father
is Skorri Manysons, chief of the Urlanging. They call me Brightspear because I took
this spear from a powerful follower of the Evil Emperor. Now normally I would rip
the guts out of anyone who would suggest that I am a coward and drape them in pretty
patterns from tree to tree but I don't normally listen to the farting noises goats make so
I am going to ignore anything that's been said up to this point and ask to speak to
someone from your clan ring or better yet to your chief. We're just going to wait
here until we talk with someone with the tiniest bit of authority and if I hear any more
insults I am going to send you screaming down into hell where you can be reunited with the
broo that spawned you on your bitch mother. Skerri turns her back and starts
unloading her horse. |
| Orldag |
spits to one side Lookee there Orlev.
Cowards can talk. |
| Orlev |
Do tell. Sure sounds fierce don't she. Say
Orldag, you like your wimmen fierce? |
| Orldag |
spits to the other side Don't matter, as
long as they aint running from me. |
| Orlev |
Do tell. Say Orldag, I wonder if they know we
have all the ow-thor-i-tee we need to deal with the likes of them? Gorsh, don't you like
them big words? |
| Cedric |
Cedric whispers to Orlev Ice-eyes. Keep the
rest out of the fight. Alone, its a duel - if we help, its war.
Cedric drifts away from the walking dead and starts looking for their back-up. He
is prepared to intercept anyone from the Boars' side who would interfere with the fight. |
| Orlev (Ice-eyes) |
Already busy scanning the countryside, returns a
whisper: I smell something bad and its not just these two. |
| Skerri |
Prepares her weapons and then turns around. Okay
big talkers, let's see if you can shut your stupid mouths long enough to fight.
Shall we do it one at a time or would you be less likely to piss yourselves if you both
fight me? I've heard mighty words about how brave and tough the Brown Boars are but
all I heard so far is the passing of wind. As far as your authority goes you two
aren't good enough to lick the shit off of my boots. So less talking and more
fighting. First blood or do I have to kill you both to show you that I'm serious? |
| Orldag |
spits to one side Gosh, Orlev. You
reckon that maybe we wuz wrong, and this lot have some fight in them? |
| Orlev |
Can't rightly say Orldag. It does sound like
at least the one here would be willing to fight. |
| Orldag |
spits to the other side You think that if
we gave them Chief Orlgard's message we wouldn't be wasting all our time? |
| Orlev |
Can't rightly say Orldag. Guess we better ask
them, that's what Orlgandi told us to do after all. Orlev turns and actually
directly addresses Skerri.
So, you think you can fight? You think you'd be willing to fight for the right to
cross Brown Boar Tula? |
| Cedric |
Steps forward. Now, I'm as fond of a fight
as the next man, but my mum - she had some peculiar notions. She always taught me that it
was bad form to repay your host with his own blood.
Course that wasn’t what you be askin was it? You didn't say fight us for the right
to pass. So just who or what do you wish us to be fightin'? |
| Skerri |
Gritting her teeth so loudly you can hear them
grinding. At this point I would be most pleased to fight anyone or anything.
Just tell me who or what and I'll be quite pleased to kick them in the ass so hard that
all their nose will be able to smell from now on will be shit.
Aside to Orlev Ice-eyes in a whisper.
If this is going to be a one on challenge I would be grateful for some magical help
from you and the others. If the rules allow it...if there are going to be any rules
that is.
Much louder.
I'm ready if you are. |
| Orldag |
spits to one side Chief Orlgard's is not in
the least impressed by you runnin' from the fight. |
| Orlev |
Yeah, he called you cowards and traitors and
that wuz jest ta start. |
| Orldag |
spits to the other side Still, Chief
Orlgard has nothin but the highest respect for Skorri Manysons and cuz o that he's willing
to give you a chance. |
| Orlev |
Yeah. A chance for cowardly traitorous dog
lovers. |
| Orldag |
spits to the first side Chief Orlgard sez
if you can prove you ain't cowardly traitorous dog lovers he'll let you cross our lands.
|
| Orlev |
Yeah, cowardly traitorous knock kneed dog
lovers. And other things too. Didn't he say sumthing about lily-livered, chicken faced
something or others? Boy, you should o seen him goin on about you guys. |
| Orldag |
spits back to the other side Chief Orlgard
sez if your clan is willing to join us in a raid he'd have to admit that you aint cowardly
traitorous dog lovers. |
| Orlev |
Yeah, cowardly traitorous lily-livered,
knee-knockin, chicken faced dog lovers. |
| Orldag |
spits at his feet for a change Chief
Orlgard sez you can choose the target, the Trolls or the Lonisi. Or he sez you can just
fight us. That way we don't half to walk so far. |
| Orlev |
Yeah. Cowardly traitorous lily-livered,
chicken faced knee-knockin pockmarked sheep minded dog lovers. |
| Orldag |
doesn't spit at all So whats it gonna be?
|
| Skerri |
Shakes head disgustedly. As much pleasure
as it would give me to kill you two walking farts I like killing uz even better so an uz
raid it is. Let's see if you sows can fight as well as you can fart.
Turns and addresses the party sotto voce.
Not much of a choice but I do love killing trolls. |
| Orldag |
spits to one side Jus so you understand,
Chief Orlgard ain't asking you to fight, he's asking Blunt and the clan to fight.
You lot are free to go lessen you disagree. |
| Orlev |
Yeah, cowardly traitorous lily-livered,
chicken faced knee-knockin pockmarked low-down sneaky slimey sheep minded dog lovers. |
| Orldag |
spits to the other side and waits for your
response. |
| Orlev |
appears to be trying to remember something ... |
| Orlev (Ice-eyes) |
[quietly] Skerri, I thought I might mention
that most of the Brown Boars will be long gone by the time Blunt arrives. So they
would neither be much help or much hindrance if you get my drift. Of course, they still
sit on the only route to and from Dragon Pass. |
| Skerri |
Let us walk and talk friends. She
drifts out of ear shot of the Brown Boars and waits for the others to join her before
commencing.
Well, what do you think? Do we wait for rest of the Amber Clan and then
what??? Force our way through Brown Boar lands, raid the Uz for them? the
easiest option would probably just involve forcing our way through their tula. With
the bulk of their warriors off fighting Pharoah we would probably win. What do you
think? |
| Orlev (Ice-eyes) |
I expect that we (especially with the new
Amberites) could force our way through the Brown Boar Tula. Though we don't know exactly
how many Boars have gone and where I think that Chief Elusu would have a few thoughts on
that matter he might share with us. However, I doubt that the Brown Boars would
let us on our way if we said we want to fight them and how they would react to Korol and
his cows, who is under our care, I don't know. They may just start raiding now and I
doubt that the Balmyr would be much pleased with that.
On another point, we still do not know how the Brown Boars will react to our new
clans-people even if we do go on a joint raid. We might make be able to take
advantage of an agreement here to forestall that issue.
It is of course possible to say one thing and do another but I would not advise
this, both as it goes against the word of Heort and would probably have a long term effect
on the clan's ability to negotiate.
It will probably take the rest of the clan a week or two to catch up to us. |
| Per |
Forcing our way through the Brown Boar tula is
not our best strategy, Captain. As rude as they might be, we do need them as allies. The
Brown Boars control the road and thus the best trade routes to the Lonisi and points
south. Being on friendly terms with them will make transit of their lands much easier.
Glances over at the Brown Boar welcoming committee.
Given the warmth of our welcome, I'd say that very few of the Brown Boar fyrd are
willing to stay behind to defend the tula. A raid by the Amberites would solve a difficult
problem for Orlgard. If our raid, successful or not, would inflict damage on the Uz which
would reduce the danger of an attack on the tula while the fyrd is away. Orlgard wouldn't
need to maintain as strong a garrison, so he doesn't have to force anyone who wants to
fight to stay behind.
I can't say we gain as much as the Brown Boars in the exchange. A raid would serve
to unite the clan by giving the new fyrd a chance to prove itself in action.
Unfortunately, every man we lose now makes establishing our tula that much harder. It's a
tough call, Captain. |
| Skerri |
Of course it would probably be safer to fight
the Brown Boars since there may be fewer of them. And they are certainly asking for
it! Do we know what the Uz are doing about the Pharoah? Are they sending
forces as well? Or will we face the whole damn troll nation? I'm
tempted to leave the decision to Blunt but we will need to pass through their lands to
negotiate with the Balmyri. We'll have to tell them something. It looks like
we will have to agree to a raid on the uz with them. So unless someone has strong
objections I will agree that the Amber clan fyrd will raid the uz for them. On the
conditions that they let us through now and all who we say are Amber clan are treated as
such by them. If they ask why the latter condition we can tell them that we don't
want the possibility of old feuds coming back to haunt us and we want every member of the
Amber clan to be treated as such. |
| Orlev (Ice-eyes) |
I agree with Per's assessment and your plan of
action Skerri, especially that clause about the new Amberites. Word it such that all
Amberites are to be treated as battle allies for Fire Season and I suspect that the Brown
Boars will honour that. I also suggest that we set the terms of the raid to a
single target equivalent to one village and that we are to select the raid target, as they
implied we could in their offer.
That only leaves the division of spoils to be considered. While I suggest we be
generous, I wouldn't want our own to leave the field empty handed. |
| Cat-boy |
Let's not tip our hands about the
Lonisi. No point alerting them to what's going on. |
| Skerri |
Since we don't really have any other option
that's what we'll do. Walks closer to the Brown Boars.
All right stink lovers you've got your raid. With the following conditions.
First, we will do one raid against one settlement and we get to pick the one.
Second, anyone we say is a member of the Amber Clan is just that. We don't
want any old feuds haunting our new clan. Third, we split the spoils fifty-fifty,
but we get first choice. Agreed? |
| Orldag |
spits to one side Welllllll now. As for the
first point, mind telling us who you want to fight so we kin get ready. And the
second be a bit interesting but might be OK as long as the first and last point be agreed
upon. Unfortunately, that last one is a bit of a sticking point. Since the Brown Boars
will be (ahem) leading the raid, even though we give you the honour of doing most of the
fightin, we stick to the Law, which means the Brown Boars get 2 parts and the Lonisi one.
But don't you worry none, Chief Orlgard can be right generous to those who show they know
how to fight. |
| Orlev |
slaps side of head ... Now I 'member. It
were cowardly traitorous lily-livered, chicken faced knee-knockin pockmarked
choas-kowtowwin low-down sneaky slimey sheep-minded kilt-wettin dog lovers.
Weren't that it Orldag. |
| Orldag |
spits to the other side By gosh I think
that be it. Chief Orlgard sure has a way with words. |
| Orlev |
Do tell. He aint chief for nuttin you know. |
| Orlev (Ice-eyes) |
in a whisper to Skerri Technically, they're
in the right about the split of the loot. As for generosity, that's entirely up to
Chief Orlgard. |
| Skerri |
Waves hand dismissively. Whatever, it's
unlikely that uz will have anything we want anyway, one third it is. Now since
you've shown such amazing ability to remember things...well for individuals of such
stunning personalities and obvious lack of ability that is...one of you sorry lot can go
tell your chief that the Amber Clan will be here within a fortnight.
Turns her back on the Brown Boars.
Let's go someplace where the locals don't smell so bad.
Mounts up. |
| Orlev (Ice-eyes) |
also mounts up once the party gets out of sight
of the Brown Boars ... Skerri, with your permission, Swiftheels and I shall race to
Blunt with the news of our agreements. I'll return as quickly as I can, perhaps 3 days for
the round trip.
Is there anything else I should speak of or carry back? |
| Skerri |
Granted. Give him my regards and wish
him godsspeed. Tell Chief Elusu what has transpired here. Turns her horse
towards the north.
Let's get these cattle moving again. I yearn to see the new lands we will
claim. |
| Orlev (Ice-eyes) |
Skerri, as Chief Elusu is out riding the
border it might be difficult to contact him. Shall I just leave word with Thane
Cedric about the Brown Boar passage? |
| Skerri |
Agreed. Travel safely, may Vinga watch
over you. Let's get these cows moving! |
| Narrator |
And so, after a quick farewell
Orlev thunders back down the road, to carry the news and terms of the passages to Blunt. The
rest of you prepare return to the camp. Tomorrow, you'll be heading north out of the
Brown Boar lands and onwards to the Balmyr. Once pass them you're almost there, the
new homeland! |
Scene 1 Scene 2 End
of Scene 3 Scene 4 Scene 5 |
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