Subject: Re: Moving on

It is. I've got a fluish cold too.

Subject: Re: Moving on

OOC: Crap. Scott has rightfully pointed out a rather glaring flaw in my last post.

IC:

Wait a minute.

Garyth halts just before reaching the door, turning to look at Pensive. "Who . . . ?" he begins, but breaks off. What was it that the elf had said? I will go with the captain, because he is the eye of the storm. The Path moves through and with him. The Path. And Sir Mattias had said that he was a master of hand fighting. "You are of Mission's order," he says. "From . . ." Garyth pauses, remembering. "Bannock's Ire." That would explain why this elf would know Mission. "Why are you here?" he asks.

Subject: Re: Moving on

Pensive pauses a moment, studying Garyth's face. So many answers to his question. . . "I am here in Huss, because Vicar Hope sent me here to watch over Mission. I am here in Nesalin because I could not find him, and when you don't know where to go, one place is as good as another. I am here with you now because Stone and Blood must always oppose sand and shadow."

"I found Mission last night. We spoke briefly, and he said he was leaving. Truthfully, Garyth, he seemed fearful of something." Pensive's eyes flick over the priest's body. "He had good reason, apparently."

How much had Mission told these men about the Kaishin? Knowing him, too much. "I have not seen him since. I assume that he has already left Huss."

Even Mission was not so foolish as to toy with the safety of his son. He hoped. Pensive hoped with all his heart that Mission and Promise were far, far away. He hoped that Mission had not been so short-sighted as to sleep in the city. The priest-- for a moment, he imagined Mission's body on the table, naked, mutilated, and Promise-- Promise with his chest mangled, his heart cut out by an obsidian blade.

The thought makes his stomach turn, and his knees tremble. No. Not a vision. Just a fear. The Kaishin was safe. He must be. Must! No vision that, either-- just hope.

"The Path will turn as it will," he murmurs under his breath. "Captain, you and I can do nothing here for this man, or for Mission, wherever he might be. Our duty lies in saving Overlook." Flashes of dreams, women and men in flames, children staring upward with dead eyes, or eyes that longed for death. His stomach wrenches again. He says urgently, "Captain. We must leave now, if we are to march with the army."

Subject: snowstorm

Hey guys/gals,

This is Fred, Raja's ex-roommate. He's on the phone right now from Nova Scotia and tells me a massive snowstorm has knocked out the power for what might be the entire week. Unfortunately, that means he will not be able to check his e-mail. As such, he commissioned me to notify you that he is not dead. :)

Thanks,

-Frederic

Subject: Re: snowstorm

Not dead -- that's good. :)

Not checking his email for a week -- BAD! :(

Subject: Re: snowstorm

Well, thank goodness we're splitting up; my crew won't have to wait for the snowstorm to dissapate for our RPG goodness. . .

Good luck, Raja.

Subject: Stormbound

Poor Karl,

Sitting there waiting for Twinky.

Who ever heard of a snowstorm in Mid Nov.? Oh that's right, he lives in Canada.

Mark

Subject: Elementary, My Dear Farron

OODM: Ok, since the party is splitting up, I need to juggle two story lines for a while. The investigation is totally open ended. So, to keep it from dragging too much, I would like to get a turn from Sa'id and Farron that is a little different.

In the first section, you can do any RP or conversation you want to do. In the second section, please list out the things you are looking for, the actions you will take, the people you want to talk to, the things you wish to task them, and so on. If you give me enough detail, along with a few conditional responses, I can consolidate multiple turns into a single post, and move the investigation along much more quickly.

Thanks guys.

IDM:

The Magistrate hands the obsidian dagger to Sa'id, and listens intently as the wizard talks about it. He nods once when Sa'id mentions joining the investigation.

"I am not opposed to your assistance, Sir. However, you can not 'take over', as you say. I am his Grace's appointed magistrate, and as such these investigations are my responsibility. Were anything to go wrong, his Grace would question me, no you."

The rest of the group shuffles out of the room. Farron hopes that they will recover quickly, at least in time for the fight to come. Right now, they look defeated. He hopes their spirits have not been unrecoverably crushed just before the coming battle, or he might not see any of them again.

The magistrate moves back over to the body after the party leaves. "The temple of hieronious is sending an acolyte over. He will do a few of the standard tests; detecting the presence of poison, seeing if a raising of the dead is possible, that sort of thing. There are only two priests in all of Nesalin capable of performing such a rite, and their services come at a dear price, but it is standard practice to check, in case there is family with the means and will to pursue it. Best to know before we put him in the ground, eh?"

Sa'id and Farron's silence at this quiets the man. "Well, anyway, not much to do until the acolyte gets here."

[Raja, Karl, you can send me investigation turns now.]

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron

The butler did it. Mark my words.

Mark

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron

In the quiet after the Magistrate finishes speaking, Farron begins to wonder if he made the right choice. On the one hand, there is evil afoot in the city and Sa'id would be an easy target alone. Also, the others will have a whole army at their side. They aren't likely to miss one mage in the heat of battle. But on the other hand, he's not at all sure the two of them will be much more of a challenge to someone who could reduce a man like Cadfael to . . . he shudders involuntarily to again contemplate the butchery before them. And now to just . . . wait while his friends are marching off to battle -- It feels a little cowardly.

As Sa'id continues peering over the corpse, Farron also suppresses his revulsion enough to take a closer look. He circles the slab staring intently at the carnage, but he isn't even sure what he is looking for. He casts more than a few questioning glances at Sa'id, but his friend is far too deep in thought to meet his gaze. [ty-Farron is looking very carefully for anything that might be unusual or unexpected (to him).]

Subject: I live!

The power came on about half an hour ago. It might not stay for good, but I am hopeful.

Word to the wise: if you ever find yourself living in Canada, for the love of all that is good and pure in this world make sure your house has some sort of backup heating system (wood stove, generator, nuclear plant, I don't care).

It has been a cold couple of days. I spent most of them in bed.

Raja

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron

Sa'id nods as the magistrate speaks. "Ah, yes. This I absolutely understand. But please keep in mind that Brother Cadfael was... well, this investigation is very important to me, and not just on a personal level." He pauses. "What do you know about the army headed for Overlook?"

OOC:

I don't trust the Magistrate 100%, so I want to ply him for information a bit before I speak openly with Farron about Kor Garesh, Elise, and so forth. I also want to ask him about other recent murders -- whether he's seen a murder weapon like this one used before, or whether this style of killing has been seen before. After that I'll wait for the priest, and see what he says. I don't expect Cadfael to be raisable simply because I know Dan's out of the game, but on the off chance he is we might be able to scrounge up enough cash if we started with those pearls and contributed our own items.

Anyway, assuming he isn't raisable I'll want to get started on the autopsy. Help would be nice if it's available but not necessary. I want to verify the cause of death and see if there is any other sort of trauma (was he beaten before/while being stabbed, for example?). I don't suppose I'll be able to work out how long he's been dead for but we already know that he was killed last night so that isn't such a big deal.

Sometime during the day I want to try and work out what route Cadfael would have followed on his way from the castle to the temple, and find out if the sewer he was stuffed into is along that route. (I'm trying to establish whether or not he even made it out of the castle; if he didn't, that means the conspirators are much more influential than I'm hoping they are).

Farron and I need to visit the wizards' school. If there are any teachers there who we can trust absolutley (I'm really going to try to minimize what I tell anyone - aside from Farron, obviously -- until I have established a few trustworthy contacts), we should tell that teacher our story and also present the letter we found on the dead teacher's body.

We'll also need to go to the temple and talk to the priests to see if we can learn anything more about Cadfael. I don't know if he spent time here before going to Overlook, I can't remember, but I think he did.

That should be enough to get us started from my end. Karl, do you have more ideas? :)

Raja

Subject: Interlude: Promise

Attention, Acolytes! Save your fidgeting for the practice yard, or I will tell the training master that he is not beating enough energy out of you.

Better. I am Perception, your training master for the principles of the Path.

We speak of the Path, today, and each day when you come to me, until you understand it. The Path is long, and takes many turnings, and you will be expected to know them all before you are granted your final sash, so pay attention.

Your teachers say, "The path is not straight, nor is it soft." Can you tell me what this means? No one? How sad. It is the founding principle of our order. What have you been doing here for the last eleven years that you can not explain to me what we believe? Yes, well, kicking and punching and rolling in the dirt are all well and good, but this is the truth: None of it means anything without principle. What do I mean? If you are the greatest warrior the world has ever known. If you can shatter a mountain with your fist, and create deep chasms by striking the ground with your foot, but you lack the principle to guide your fist and your foot, then you are nothing. Less than nothing, because power without direction is catastrophe.

You will learn direction and principle with me.

"The path is not straight." This defines the constant battle between order and chaos. A road is a manifestation of order. It is an attempt to force the world to conform to our needs. And roads are good things. Without them, much that we take for granted would be far more difficult. It is good for man to build roads. But the world does not bend to the will of men. If you are making a road, and come to a mountain, what will you do? Will you stop and go home? "The mountain has stopped me!" No. Will you smash through the mountain, so that your road can remain straight? You will shatter yourself upon the mountain long before it bends to your will. No, you will bend the road, and find the path through the mountain that the mountain itself will give you. And in the end, you will still have a road. There will still be order. But you will not be shattered.

The path is not straight because the world is not straight. If we wish to impose order on things beyond their capacity for order, we ruin both the world and ourselves in the process. But, we do not have to give in to chaos either. A patient man may find the way to lay a path nearly anywhere. Order within chaos. Structure with flexibility. Adaptability with guiding principle. This is why "the path is not straight."

"Nor is it soft." The price one pays for principle and order can often be high. Just as building your road up through the mountain is more difficult than building your road across flat ground, so too is adapting to change while maintaining guiding principles.

Let me tell you a story.

Of the seven Kaishin that have graced this order, the last, and some say greatest, was Promise. He was the son of a disgraced monk of the Path, and the tale of his birth and his journey back to his home is dark. We will talk about that, and the redemption of his father, another time. I wish to tell you the tale of his greatest victory.

It was in the time we call the "rise of sand and shadow". Dark powers moved in the earth. Some say the gods wrestled, and the world and its peoples shook from the power of their battles. We of the Path know little of gods and their ways. What we do know is that across the world, that time was marked by great upheavals, and great evils.

Promise became a beacon in that dark time. His gift was the gift of foresight, and he used it to show men the good futures open to them if they chose the right path. Always by his side stood his father, once called Mission, but later given the name Resolute. In dark times, men may grow to fear the light. And, though it is a great shame to our race, there were those who sought to control or destroy the gentle Kaishin. But with Resolute at his side, none could touch him.

A great king rose up in the south, in the deserts of Kunedane. His horsemen spread across the land, bringing all in subjection to him. In time, his eye turned to the mountains north of him, and he began conquering here. It was in these lands that he first heard of our order, and of the Kaishin and his ability to see the future of men. The great king sent his eldest son to call on the Kaishin, and demand his fortune be told.

This son was brash, and hotheaded, though he was considered a great leader of men. The king intended to send his son east, conquering those lands as well, and spread his dominion over our entire continent. Then they would rule together, as father and son, over a kingdom too vast to be reckoned. And while the great king did not believe in a monk who could foretell the future, he did understand that the people believed it. If this monk could be made to foretell his son's great conquest, then the people would be more easily subjugated.

And so the great prince arrived in all his splendor at the gates of our order, followed by a thousand of the fierce desert horsemen. He demanded to be brought to the Kaishin, so that his fortune could be told. He was given entrance, as were all who sought audience with Promise.

Once brought before Promise, the great prince demanded that the Kaishin tell the people that he was the foretold ruler of this land. That resistance was foolish.

Promise said, "I will tell the people nothing. A man's past is his only possession. His future is his only reward. How he spends either is his only true choice. But I can show you what I see, and you may decide what to do with it."

These words angered the prince, as no one had dared speak to him as an equal in all his life. The prince said that if Promise did not do as he wished, then his men would burn the monastery, and kill all the monks.

Promise said, "You are the great prince. You can do exactly as you say, and none will be able to turn your hand. But I can show you who you will be afterward, and your victory will be ash in your mouth."

The great prince then said he would kill Promise himself, and show the people that he was stronger than their simple minded prophecy.

And then Resolute stepped in front of his son, and the prince quaked. Children, you wonder, why would the great prince quake before this monk? You must know, Resolute had become the greatest of us, some say the greatest warrior our order ever knew. His hands could carve diamond, his feet moved swifly enough to walk on falling leaves in autumn. They say his eyes were as flat as stone; the eyes of a man who has faced something worse than death, and come away the victor. This man stepped toward the prince, and the prince saw his death in Resolute's flat stony eyes.

But Promise reached up one hand, and touched his father's arm. When he did this, Resolute lowered his hands, and stared sadly at the prince. The prince, still fearing for his life, launched himself at the monk while his guard was down, slashing with his sword. Resolute watched the sword come at his throat as slowly as a falling feather, for when he fought, Resolute moved like the wind. But even though he could have turned the sword and crushed the life from the prince a dozen times, he did not move. He watched the sword slowly move toward him, and then cut his throat.

And Resolute died on the steps of the Kaishin's seat.

But for all his brashness, the Prince was no fool. He saw that Resolute had stood impassive while the stroke fell. So he asked Promise, why did the man do this thing?

Promise answered by holding out his hand. When the prince took it, he saw all that Resolute had seen. He saw himself dead at Resolute's hands. His father, the great king, howling in grief, and burning and murdering across Bannock's Ire in his rage. He saw the beginnings of an empire falling to ruin as the people, given the choice between resistance and massacre, chose to fight. He saw Promise and his father alive, while all around them was in ruins.

But then he saw himself alive, with Resolute dead at his feet. He saw, even in the harshness of war, the possibility of something better. A crown weighing heavily on his gray head, but a single country that spanned the land, and a happy prosperous people with no fear of their neighbor attacking.

Promise then said, "Your future is the gift he gave you. How will you spend it?"

And the great prince wept at the Kaishin's feet.

But now we live in a strong country that spans the land from sea to sea. The people live long, prosperous lives. And in the palace of the Emperors' stands a golden statue of the Kaishin, Promise, and the body of his father at his feet. The words, "Strength and Sacrifice" are etched upon it. Strength and sacrifice were the lessons that Resolute taught the emperors of our land with his life.

The road is not straight, nor is it soft.

Now, go. You smell of sweat and the dirt of the practice yard. It will take me a month to clean my floors. Next time you come to me in such disarray, I will teach you MY version of a hard path, and you will not like it.

Subject: Re: Interlude: Promise

Gee this almost makes me want to have Ty kill Melani. :)

Mark

Subject: Re: Interlude: Promise

Granted.

Subject: Re: Interlude: Promise

I did say almost.

And there was no smilie with that comment Ty.

Well if you kill her I can always roll up an Paladin. :)

Mark

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; 2

The magistrate gives Sa'id a blank look. "I know almost nothing. I have been here most of the night with the body. Ever since he was discovered. I do not concern myself overmuch with such things in any event. The rendering of justice within the city walls is my domain, and I stick to that."

Sa'id nods, and moves around the corpse, his mind already shifting gears into the cold and mechanical analysis that is required for such investigations. It is not the body of a friend, it is a puzzle, waiting to be solved. "Have you seen other murders of this type?" The magistrate shrugs. "Men cut to pieces and stuffed in the sewer? More than we'd like. In a city this size, men will always find a reason to carve each other up. The weapon is unusual. Obsidian is wickedly sharp, even sharper than steel. But its brittleness makes it unreliable. I am surprised this weapon did not chip or shatter during the attack, or after the fall into the sewer. The obvious glee with which he was cut up is worrisome. This was not a convenience killing, or a murder for profit. Someone enjoyed this." He sighs. "I hate the crazy ones."

Sa'id notes the lack of bruises on the body. It does not look like Cadfael put up much of a fight. He also sees that most of the cuts did not bleed very much. He says to Farron, "It is possible that the stab to the heart was the first wound. The lack of blood from the cuts could indicate that Cadfael was already dead when the attacker began to cut him up. Which, of course, leads us to 'why'? Why cut him up after he was already dead?" The magistrate nods. "Like I said, someone enjoyed this." Farron represses a shudder.

A few moments later, a young acolyte from the temple arrives. He greets the magistrate like they've worked together before, and immediately goes to the body. "They say he was a priest? Is this correct? To which god?" Sa'id replies, "He was a servant of Pelor." The acolyte nods. "Then it was not self inflicted. To those who serve the sun god, self mutilation and self murder are anathema."

This seems obvious to Farron, until he remembers that with the plethora of gods and religions in the world, this is a question that would need to be answered.

The acolyte places one hand on Cadfael's chest and begins mumbling. When he has finished, he says, "There is no poison. But, something feels... odd." He begins another prayer. When he has finished, he gasps and jerks his hand away from the body, "Hie! There is something foul here! This man could not be raised, even were one of those trained in the rites here to attempt it. His spirit has been taken. His body is a shell. All that made up this man has been stolen by something. This is evil indeed."

He turns to the magistrate. "Do you have the weapon?" The magistrate hands him the glass dagger, but as soon as he touches it, he lets out a yelp and drops it to the stone floor. Surprisingly, it does not shatter. "That weapon is a thing as foul as any I have ever seen. It was the device by which this man's spirit was stolen, though the power that resided in it is gone now, the echo of that terrible deed reverberates through it."

Subject: Re: Interlude: Promise

That was fantastic. I'm truly impressed! Thank you.

Subject: Re: Interlude: Promise

Or just import your cleric from Tom's game. It's not like the fish will miss him. :-)

Subject: Re: Interlude: Promise

Derek has a soft spot in his heart for Slash.

Mark

Subject: Hiatus

I'm getting my everloving ass kicked at work this week, so I'm going to be incommunicado until at least next Monday. Sorry, but I even have to schedule breathing at the moment, and just typing this email is preventing oxygen from getting to my brain.

I'll catch you all next week.

~Matt

Subject: Re: Hiatus

We'll wait for you. :0

Subject: rennik hiatus

I think I will just do some Farron and Sa'id turns until Monday. That will decrease my work load a bit too, and let's us get Rennik back in time for the mother of all battles.

If you are mad about it, blame Matt! :)

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; 2

Sa'id's heart sinks. It makes perfect sense. The weapon is a conduit for the drinker of souls. If it had pierced Promise's skin... anywhere, not even at the mountain. But Mission could not be warned.

Cadfael was not, then, at Pelor's side. There was no mercy, no peace in his death. Just... oblivion. As though there were no gods at all. A week ago Sa'id might have found the thought of a godless world comforting. Not so now.

Choosing his words carefully, Sa'id says: "My friend Farron and I have seen a weapon like this before, and very recently, but it was not here in the city. Our small group, some of whom have just departed with Nesalin's soldiers, disrupted a sacrifice ritual deep in the jungle. A dagger much like this was to be the sacrificial weapon. Brother Cadfael was with us. He rescued the child... the intended sacrifice... personally, with the aid of his god. The group conducting the ritual is the same group whose army now marches on Overlook. What disturbs me is that this group was able to kill him here in Nesalin. We had thought we would be safe here. He wanted to go to the temple for prayer last night."

He swallows, hard, and avoids looking at Cadfael's body until he has recovered his clinical frame of mind. Sa'id is well aware of the risk he has just taken, but if the investigation is to proceed smoothly he has to establish more of a rapport and a trusting relationship with the magistrate. Nothing would get done if Sa'id kept everything he knew about the dagger and the followers of Kor Garesh to himself.

"Where, in relation to the castle and the temple, was the body found?"

OOC:

Great interlude, Ty. :)

The soul-drinking daggers remind me of Steven Brust's books and the soul-eating Morganti weapons. Only much eviller.

Everything I said I'd want to do in my last email (tracing the route, going to the wizards' school, etc.) still stands.

Also, that acloyte can detect evil... I'd like to keep him around as much as possible, that's a VERY useful ability. Too bad we don't have a paladin handy...

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; 2

Raja just sent this to me, so I am replying to everyone in it.

IDM:

The acolyte stares at Sa'id like he is a madman. The magistrate opens his mouth as though to speak several times, but just closes it without a word. When Sa'id is done, the Acolyte just shakes his head. Farron feels compelled to say, "Well, it's true."

Finally, the magistrate speaks. "Wizard, I have no idea what to do with such a story as this. I do not question your word, for I have no cause to do so. However, I must wonder how this helps us. We are still left, in my opinion, with a simple problem. Who stuck this dagger, soul stealing or not, into this priest. That is the one and only issue I plan to resolve. If the murderer worships evil gods and sacrifices babies in the jungle, then hanging him will be doubly satisfying. But he will hang all the same.

"Now, to answer your other questions, I will turn you over to the guardsman who was the first to see the body. He can take you to the place he was found, and tell you what he knows. Is that satisfactory?"

Sa'id nods. "Is it possible for the acolyte to join us?"

The cleric shakes his head vigorously. "No, I have many other duties to attend. I am already running late." It's clear that he is a little frightened by Sa'id's story.

The magistrate introduces the two wizards to a young guardsman named Wilk, and asks him to take them to the murder site.

[I will wait to do any more until Karl sends me his turn]

Subject: Re: rennik hiatus

"May we take the weapon?" Farron asks the Magistrate. "I'd like some of our colleagues at the college to have a look at it, if possible." If allowed, he will wrap it in a cloth (his cloak if necessary) being careful not to touch it directly. It's a long shot, he thinks, that they might find anything else out about it that the acolyte hasn't already told them, so he won't protest if the Magistrate denies the request.

*****

"Lead on" he says to Wilk. "Let's get this over while it's still daylight," He adds quietly, more to himself that to anyone else, though he's not at all sure anymore that daylight will make any difference to the Dark God or his minions.

"We have to be careful," he says quietly to Sa'id as they make their way through the city streets. "I really don't want to end up like Cadfael." After a moment he continues, "Is this 'drinker of souls' so powerful that even Pelor's aid is insufficient? Or did Cadfael get tossed aside because he was no longer useful?" He shakes his head in anger and dismay. Either way, there was no security in the gods. What happens, happens. You could call it the will of Pelor, or Tempus, or Kor Garesh all you wanted if that made you feel better. What it all meant to Farron, though, was that he only had himself and his friends to rely on.

"It's good to see you back to yourself again," He says, making conversation as they follow Wilk. Though he isn't really sure Sa'id is back to himself, he at least seems outwardly more engaged in the moment that he has in the recent past. We should see what we can find out at the college as soon as we are done with Wilk. We could also check with someone at Pelor's temple here, but I'm not sure we can trust anyone there. What do you think?"

[Farron will assist Sa'id at the site where the body was discovered, looking for anything he might find that Sa'id doesn't see first. He also wants to go the the college and talk with whoever there he trusts most.

Subject: Re: rennik hiatus

OOC: I meant to send that earlier message to everyone. Oops.

"I think Pelor's attention is focused elsewhere, on Promise and Overlook. I had hoped that death was a gift, that Cadfael would have peace, but obviously not." Sa'id takes a deep breath, and forces a smile. "It is good to BE myself again. It is good to BE, really. I only hope that I can repay the debt I owe Cadfael and his god."

In reply to Farron's last statement, Sa'id says: "Yes, we should head for the wizards' school, and the temple as well, today. Also, do you have a detect magic dweomer handy?"

Subject: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

Wilk leads the two wizards through the busy streets of Nesalin. Not far away, the army is moving out the main gates and the energy of has rubbed off on the citizens. It is almost a carnival atmosphere. There is a loud thud, as the city's main gates swing shut, and Sa'id says something quietly in his native tongue. When he sees Farron looking at him questioningly, he translates, "Gods bring you swiftly home." Farron replies, "Amen." It is an odd feeling that Garyth and Rennik will be fighting without them.

It is not a long walk back to the Keep, and only a few blocks away from that to the sewer entrance Cadfael was found in. Wilk says, "I saw some boys looking down into the hole, and the cover had been removed. I chased 'em away, thinking they had tossed a dog in or something. But when I took a look, I saw the body. That cover is pretty heavy. I don't know that those boys could've moved it, nor would they have had a reason to. I think whoever did this just left it open."

Sa'id climbs partway down the ladder, but there is little to see in the sewer itself. The magistrate's men had already collected what there was to be found. Farron looks around him. This area is directly between the Keep and the Temple; about three blocks from the keep, and seven from the church. Cadfael seems to have been following the most direct route. The area of the murder is commercial. Both sides of the street are lined with small shops that cater to the upper and middle class. Its proximity to the temple district means it is a nice neighborhood. Though, late at night, it is probably fairly empty. Farron can see how a person might be murdered here without a witness. The thing that most bothers him, is how did anyone know Cadfael would be here? Walking this route, on this day, at that time of night?

Sa'id climbs back up. "Nothing down there." Farron nods, then tells him his thoughts on the neighborhood. Sa'id turns to the young guardsman. "Thank you, Wilk. We will carry on from here. Well, friend. To the school?"

The college of magic in Nesalin is small, for an institution of its type. It was originally founded as a vanity project by the Duke Wallech, the third duke of Huss. His son had decided at an early age that he had magical talent, so the duke built a school to keep the boy on the island, and allow him to live out his fantasies of great wizardry at the same time. As it turned out, the boy did in fact have some power, but sadly lacked discipline. Fortunately, the school had gained enough momentum that it kept running after the boy's tragic passing, and the crater in the front yard was turned into a nice fountain.

In the years since, the school has grown into a moderately well respected institution. While it will never compete with the large mainland schools in terms of prestige, it does have the advantage of island life, a slower and more relaxed pace, and fewer distractions.

Farron can't keep a silly grin off his face as they walk up the stone path, past the fountain, and to the large oak door. It's like coming home again. The doorman recognizes them both, and they are let inside without a word. While walking to the office of Farron's old mentor, Master Thaddeus, they pass a door with Master Tormin's name on it. Farron says with a grin, "Think we should give him Danmonoth's letter disproving his theories about the halflings? Or would he react badly to that?"

A few steps later, they knock on Master Thaddeus' door, and are mildly surprised to actually find him in his office. They are ushered inside with a warm handshake, and within moments find themselves seated by a crackling fire, with a hot cup of Kaf. Farron dimly remembers a dream he had about this exact scene while he was sleeping in the sewers beneath Kor Garesh's twisted jungle. It is even better in real life.

Master Thaddeus, the Divination Master, smiles warmly at the two young mages over his cup of Kaf. "You don't look like men on a social call. What can I do for you?"

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

I love how the fountain was made. :)

Mark

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

Yes, brilliantly subtle. I'm still smiling at the thought.

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

Ty--

Do our characters get the opportunity to stock up on supplies? I imagine Rennick might want to see if he can get his axe fixed. . .

Pensive would like to purchase some healing kits, if possible-- how much money does he have?

If he can, and if it won't tip his encumberance above light, Pensive will purchase 4 healing kits.

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

Karl, do we want to tell him everything? (I assume that Sa'id and Farron would have talked about this en route). I have composed a message in which we DO tell him everything, but I haven't sent it. What do you think? Should we leave stuff out? Sa'id kind of wants to tell someone else, in a "get it off his chest" sort of way, but I'd like to know what you and Farron think. :)

Raja

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

No, there isn't time. You guys are in the city about 7 hours, all of which are between 10pm and dawn. Not a lot of shops open.

But, to be flexible, we can assume Pensive might have already had some healing kits among his implements.

Split the diff and say he has two?

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

Awright, then.

2 healing kits. . .

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

I'm assuming this is someone Farron trusts completely. (From Ty's writeup, he is Farron's old mentor.) If Farron does think he's completely trustworthy, he'd opt for leaving nothing out. After all, we're their for advice. We can't expect the best advice from someone who's under-informed.

Since you already have the turn written up, I'll go with this:

Sitting in Master Thaddeus's office brings back to mind the dozens (if not hundreds) of times he'd done that very thing, discussing Divination and other magical arts. He lets his eye wander over the professor's bookcase-lined walls, filled with magical tomes and strange implements, only for a moment before beginning.

"No, unfortunately it isn't a social call. We've just last night returned to the city. We've had a rather horrifying couple of weeks and we'd like to see if you have anything that might help us with a very grave problem.

"You should remember Sa'id. He studied here while I was still a student. I'll let him tell you our story since he has a better head for the details."

With that Farron leans back in his chair and coddles his Kaf, only interrupting if Sa'id forgets anything important.

(Ty, Farron will also show Thaddeus the spellbook he got from the mage in the tower and ask if he can assist in getting it opened without destroying it.)

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

K, just waiting on Raja's fabulous turn now. :)

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

Sa'id sips his Kaf. Brewed nice and strong. Deliciously bitter, taken without milk or sugar. He inhales the aroma, and closes his eyes for a few seconds.

"No, sir," Sa'id says, "I only wish we were returning in the same spirits we left." He starts to tell the story, beginning at Overlook, pausing quite often to check or confirm memories with Farron, and letting the other wizard take the lead in the storytelling whenever he wishes. Sa'id takes a detour when it comes to the discoveries they'd made about the halflings, going into some detail about the significance of what they had found, both in the letter and the ruins and mountain, and adding a few theoretical speculations of his own (though clearly noting that they are his own).

Almost nothing is left out -- the encouter with Elise at the farmouse, the dead man in the road, the soulless halflings, Gully's lodge, the catastrophe at the ruined tower, Rennik's battle with Elise, Cadfael's insanity, the zombie trap, the tunnel, the swamp dragon, the mountain, the sacrifice ritual, Promise and his visions (here Sa'id does omit his own alternate vision of commanding an undead army), the flight through the jungle, the halfling village, sending Garyth to Overlook, and finally Cadfael's murder.

By the time he has reached Cadfael's murder his Kaf is long gone. While Farron is talking, Sa'id takes the pot and offers refills to the other two wizards before filling his own cup again.

"I'm sure you can see why we stayed," Sa'id concludes, "but obviously we do not feel very safe in Nesalin now. We did not think that the influence of Kor Garesh reached this far."

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

Thaddeus listens quietly to the whole story. When Sa'id finishes, he just says, "How is it that you boys think I can help you? I am a creaky old man. My adventuring days are long over."

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The Murder Site

"Well, we were hoping you might be able to give us some more information about Kor Garesh or anything else you might know about the history of the island or any pertinent legends, or local lore," Farron begins. "Also, we thought that maybe you could give us some advice on who we might talk to about any recent dark activities in the city. Hopefully someone we can trust."

Farron will listen to anything that Master Thaddeus has to say. He will show the spellbook he gained from the incident in the tower and ask if Master Thaddeus can assist in getting it open without destroying it. At some point he will also say:

"Master Thaddeus, it has been a while since I studied under you. Since leaving the college, I've had quite a bit of experience and overcome many difficulties. Your teachings have been invaluable to me in many ways. If there is anything you might be able to teach me further that you deem me ready to learn, and that might help us in trying to combat this growing evil I would be even further in your debt."

Subject: Time for the war

Ok just in time for Ty to start the war, I will be away from the computer alot the next few days.

I have greenery pick up for my son's Cub Scout pack tomorrow. I will be able to check in before noon, and maybe just a bit before 2:00PM, but the actual pick up starts at 2 and will not be done until 7:00, which really means 8. I might be able to check in after that.

Wednesday I am taking off work to watch the kids, but will be able to check from home.

Thursday is turkey day so I assume everyone is off.

Friday I am off work and will be able to check from home.

Mark

Subject: Re: Elementary, My Dear Farron; The College

Thaddeus thinks a moment before replying. Farron remembers with great affection his former mentor's slow, studied manner. How he would always give such thought to each question posed to him. Finally, after staring off into space and toying with his cup for a few moments, Thaddeus says, "I confess, Farron, that I have never heard of this creature 'Kor Garesh'. I believe Master Tormin is the recognized expert on the history of the island and its peoples. Perhaps he may know something of the religion of the ancient halflings. But really, until you just told me, I had no idea there even WAS an ancient city in the interior. The jungle is a very disagreeable place, and the men who came to live here have always shunned it. I could do some research, but I must confess, I think it unlikely I will find anything. I think I would remember having read of this 'soul drinker', and I have read every book in our library.

"As for dark activities, I can think of none. Oh! We did have an apparent murder several weeks ago. A noble knight of the White Hart was killed, and another knight vanished. She was widely suspected of the deed, though no concrete evidence was found. I suppose that might qualify as dark activity. Of course, the fact that half our army just marched out the front gate might also qualify."

Farron shows his mentor the spell book. Thaddeus takes it gingerly, and looks it over. Looking at the front cover, he spots a rune that Farron had not been able to identify, and lets out a hiss. "Finlan! That evil conjuror. You say you killed the wizard who carried this? Then you have done the world a great service. I have known no other more despicable man of the arts than Finlan Haltane. A mercenary of the lowest order, and a murderer. I wonder how you came to cross his path? And I thank the gods he did not murder you as well! His book will surely be sealed with vicious magics. I can have our people here open it safely. We normally charge for such dangerous services, of course, but perhaps we can make a different deal. Allow us first use of anything unusual we find, and we will make everything else available to you. It might be very useful to know what sort of spells a black conjuror like Finlan was working on. Agreed?"

When Farron asks about additional instruction, Thaddeus laughs. "My dear Farron, you don't need any teaching from me! You were already a fine Diviner when you left here. That's why you have always had my recommendation for any post you applied for. However, the library and its resources are always available to you. And, if you find something in particular, I will always be available. I just hope you come visit more often. Next time, perhaps you won't need the rise of a dark god to find an excuse to visit an old man?"

[Farron and Sa'id can use the library to research one new spell per spell level. So, one new 1st, 2nd, and 3rd level spell. It's a little different from the normal rules, but you guys have had a rough couple weeks. :)]

Subject: The Battle for Overlook; Marching to War

Garyth, Rennik, and their two new companions quietly return to the marshalling area. In the confusion of the forming army, it takes several minutes to find Sir Jonas, the leader of the Blood Falcons. Eventually though, they do find the Blood Falcons forming in a quieter corner of the marshalling yard. Garyth is accustomed to it, but it is instantly apparent to everyone other than him that these soldiers are different from the rank and file. They are quieter, less given to wasted motion. Their horses look lean and fast, and they men wear lighter and more flexible armor. Armor like Garyth's; designed for mobility and speed. Several of the men greet Garyth like an old companion. Sir Jonas looks up as the group approaches, and greets Garyth warmly.

"Welcome back, Son of Arden. And look at you, a Captain now. It seems we have both moved up in the world." Garyth grips the commander's arm firmly. The commander continues, "Well, they warned me you had a new high and mighty rank, so I've got a special job for you. I want you to take command of my left flank. Your old sparring partner, Simon, will be on the right. We've only got a few Falcon's for this job, so the men you bring will really help." He looks Rennik and Melani over. "You little ones sure your up for this fight?" Rennik growls and starts to move forward, but Garyth places one hand on his shoulder, and says to Jonas, "I'd put a months wages on my friend here against nearly any Falcon in the ranks. We're lucky to have him with us." Jonas just nods and this, and says no more.

He points to a small group forming up not far away. "Those brave souls are your first command, Garyth. Keep them alive for me, would you?"

Garyth approaches the small group with some dismay. There are only five of them, though it looks as though Jonas and Simon only lead seven or eight each. The Falcon's will be a small force in this fight. Garyth's men look pretty much like any other group of Falcon's waiting for a fight. Light, but cared for armor, well used weapons, and the sleepy looks of dangerous men waiting for a fight. They all nod at him as he approaches, a few saying, "Captain." Apparently, they knew he would be in command before he did. A large man wearing heavier armor approaches. Up close, he looks less like a Blood Falcon raider, and more like a pugilist in a breastplate. His face is a mass of knots, and his nose looks broken many times. He reaches out one hand, and grips arms with Garyth. "I'm battlecleric Osred, a priest of Hieronious, the battle lord. I am the cleric assigned to your squad, and your second in command. They tell me that we will face many undead this day. They will be ash before Hieronious' cleansing light."

Garyth nods at him, then looks at his rank insignia. "Glad to have you, Sergeant. Can you tell me about the men?" Osred begins pointing them out one by one. "That Corporal Vincy, a good man in a pinch, but likes his wine a bit overmuch. I searched his backs and took care of that. He'll be dry on this trip. Hey, Vincy, maybe well make it back fast enough you won't even get the shakes, eh?!" He calls out, bringing laughter from the men. Vincy just gives him an obscene gesture and grins. "That there is Munch. I know, it sounds like a nickname, but that's the name his mother actually gave him. He's a good man. Beside him is Robert. He's your best crossbowman. Can knock a bird down in flight from 100 yards. That last man is Pickle. Oh, that is a nickname. We tell him it's because his old man is as long as a storebought pickle, but the truth is it's because the damn thing is green. I swear, I've seen it. He hasn't got any sense about where he sticks the bloody huge thing. It won't be so impressive when it rots and falls off, eh Pickle?" There is more laughing and insults after this.

Garyth remembers this. The boisterous camaraderie of soldiers going to battle. It's good to see it. These men have worked together, and trust each other. His squad may be small, but it is experienced, and he has the elf and the two halflings as well. This might not be so bad. One of the men brings a few horses around for Garyth and Pensive. A page is also sent to find a pony for the two halflings. After only a few moments, the entire squad is mounted and forming up with the rest of the Falcons. Even the horses seem impatient to be moving.

And then the massive group of men and animals begins to move out the front gates. The heavy cavalry, with the Under Marshall's group, moves out first, followed by four columns of pikemen. Then the smaller group of archers head out. And finally the Falcons, in three groups and on horseback. When the entire army is out, the heavy main gates of Nesalin bang shut. Only the much smaller man-gate will remain open, until the threat is gone.

***************************************************************

The army moves at best speed down the southern road to Overlook. Along the way, various signs of the undead army's passing can be seen. There can be no doubt of Garyth's warning now. Garyth only hopes that last nights delay didn't doom his town. But, realistically, it is amazing that the Marshall was even able to put together this much effort in so short a time. Garyth prays, Pelor, you have used us to get what you want. You used up Cadfael and then let him be murdered. You OWE us. If you are good, as I've always been taught, then you will help my home. You will keep my family safe until I can get there to help them. You owe me that.

A few hours into the march, a messenger comes back from the Under Marshall's group, and talks to Jonas. Jonas waves Garyth over, and as they ride side by side he says, "Alright, Captain. I've got a job for you. A rider from the advance party of cavalry has asked Sir Darius for some help. Our kind of help. They've been able to harass and slow the undead army, and it hasn't reached Overlook yet. But they've got some problems with a witch, and they're taking a beating from her. When they attack the army, she shows up and hammers them a bit, then flies off to distant hill when they ride away. They want to coordinate with us, and draw her out by attacking. While that's happening, your group will have moved around the hill from behind, and will be waiting for her when she returns. Hopefully, you can catch her off guard, and take her out of the picture. You'll have to ride fast." He shakes out a map, and points to a spot Garyth knows well. It is a large hill not more than fifteen miles inland from Overlook. "This is the spot. Think you can get there quietly and be ready for some knife work before noon?"

[Garyth does think he can get his men that far in time. I will wait for some replies to stuff so far, and then write up the next turn when everyone has checked in.]

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Marching to War

Ty, would it be reasonable for Garyth to have procured himself a new bow and some arrows?

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Marching to War

As they walk over to the soldier, Melani sees that these are veterans of many campaings. This makes her feel good. However, the size of the horses does not. Do they expect her to ride one of these monsters. Luckily the bring a small pony over for her to ride. She just hopes that the beast can keep up with the other horses.

As they travel she keeps an eye on the group, trying to size them up. The big human in the armor sounds like a walking metal can. She hopes that he stays behind if there is any quite work to do.

She sees Garyth go talk to his commander and eventually gets the story about what they are to do.

Finally she will be able to strike at the Nameless Ones.

OOC: Melani is ready to do whatever is needed of her.

Mark

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Marching to War

"Think you can get there quietly and be ready for some knife work before noon?"

Garyth nods. "Consider it done, sir," he says with a salute.

Returning to the group, he relays the plan. "We'll need to get in fast, eliminate any support that the witch may have positioned behind the hill without raising an alarm, then ambush the witch as she comes over the hill."

He turns to the halflings. "Rennik, Melani, you are both experienced scouts and trackers. We will need your eyes and ears; our success may depend on swift and accurate reconnaissance." It's not quite a request, but not a command either. Rather, the tone in Garyth's voice and the look in his eye are of a man speaking to comrades that he knows have his back.

Finally, he turns to Osred. "Sergeant, do you have any magics that can help neutralize the witch?"

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Marching to War

Osred's smiles grimly. "Aye sir, I think I'll be able to do a thing or two to bring her down."

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Marching to War

(OOC: Yay! We have a cleric! And it's Jake! Who has a propensity for playing ugly, brutish characters, it seems! Hehe...)

Rennik follows along behind Garyth, falling in behind him much as the guardsman had done behind him in the jungle. This was his domain, his territory, and he was as comfortable in it as the halflings were in the forest.

As Rennik and Melani struggled to move through the crowds, not used to the press of people, Garyth slid through unthinkingly, just as either of the two scouts would have moved through a patch of briars or dense copse of trees.

Watching intently at how the humans interact, and doing his best to pay close attention to the behaviors for the time when he would need to speak for his people, Rennik is taken by surprise at the Commander's words.

"You little ones sure your up for this fight?"

The growl comes unbidden to Rennik's throat as he steps forward to the man, but Garyth's hand restrains him. He would have to learn to control those reactions among the humans...

Rennik's pony is not too happy with Tichenor loping alongside, and it takes all Rennik has in him to keep the beast from rearing up. He would much prefer to be on his feet, but he again understood the need for speed.

When Garyth mentions using him as a scout for the witch, he simply catches the guardsman's eye and nods once, simple acknowledgement of Garyth's leadership in the field.

The witch. He looked forward to the ambush, and to the empty look in her eyes when the life seeped out of her back into Mielikki's bosom.

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Marching to War

Garyth nods. "Good. Then let's be off."

OOC: That's all for me.

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Marching to War

Pensive listens quietly to the men's joking, and shivers. Pickle. What was this fascination with humans and sex? Spreading their seed around like. . . like. . . Pensive cannot think of an appropriate metaphor. He shivers again. That's what started this whole thing. . .

No. He'd stop blaming Mission. Mission was worthy of the Kaishin. The shadow that blew on Huss was not dependent on the stupid child that Mission had been. Penance and Mission-- stupid children. But maybe, becoming a father would heal Mission's stupidity. He is worthy, Pensive reminds himself, gritting his teeth.

Why am I not?

The ground where Nesalin's army has massed is thick with the smell of men and beasts. Pensive remains close to Garyth as the army prepares to embark, watching how he binds himself to his new men, to the cleric Osred, how the binding between him and Rennick is changing. . .

And then the reins to a horse is passed into his hands. Pensive looks up at the creature's eyes, a bit suprised. How does one go about riding a horse? There are some fellows not far away already sitting astride their mounts, patting the long, muscular necks as they chatted. How did they get up there? The men are in armor, so they couldn't have jumped. . . Pensive walks cautiously around his own horse, looking for some sign, some. . . clue as to how to get up on its back.

Well, _he_ was not in armor, and he _could_ jump. Fastening his hand to the horse's mane, he swings himself up into the saddle. Blood and stone. Now what? From this vantage point, he can see the stirrups, placed far too low to be of any use to him. And the reins, out of reach. The horse whinnies at him, and gives a little dance to the side. Pensive sways in the saddle precariously.

"Be forgiving, horse," Pensive says, patting it like he'd seen the men do. He leans forward and runs his hand along the animal's muscular neck, feels it shake, and calm. "We are to be tied together through misery and war-- let us both be kind to one another. Forgive me my natural incompentence, and I will forgive you your wide ribcage."

He lights out of the saddle, and finds the latch and buckle to the stirrups. Adjusted to elf-height, they make excellent foot holds, though his thighs are already starting to burn. He looks at Rennick and Melani's war ponies with a glimmer of envy, but says nothing. This was to be his horse. The Path is not straight nor is it soft.

***************

The Path is infinitely softer than a horse's back, Pensive decides, when Sir Jonas calls Garyth's group over. Oddly, it wasn't as bad riding full-out; it was the trotting that was painful.

He listens carefully to the commander's description of the witch, and remains quiet until he has moved away.

Then he says to Garyth, "A mage expecting battle is likely to have protection against arrows. That protection may still be on her when she returns behind the hill, in addition to her powers of flight. This will be a difficult bird to net." His eyes flash, and he feels a dark thrum in his gut. "She will have expended much of her magery in attacking the forward calvary, though, and perhaps her protection will have weakened."

Perhaps. Pensive looks beyond Garyth, to the hulk of a ruined farmhouse. Sand and shadow had passed this way. The thrum in his gut pulls as taut as a bowstring. Pensive grits his teeth against it, and puts his fingers inside his sleeves to touch the smooth silk cords wrapped meticulously around his forearms. There is strength there. Blood and Stone, he hopes it is enough.

Subject: The Battle for Overlook; Hunting the Witch

It is sort of disconcerting, peeling off from the main body of troops. Garyth's little squad of nine watches the mass of soldiers continue marching to the south, as they head off south by southeast. Garyth leaves his men little time to reflect, as he begins pushing them and their mounts to greater speed. Soon, the army is far behind.

Within a few hours, the hill in question becomes visible, though it is too distant to see anything on it. Melani points out [successful knowledge roll] that a natural draw in the land to the north of the hill would provide some cover for their approach. The group is able to use it to move to within half a mile of the east side of the hill. Melani and Rennik believe that attempting to move closer on horseback would be too risky. Garyth guesses the time as an hour or so before noon, so the group has time.

Corporal Vincy takes the horses to a small group of trees and ties them up. Pickle and Robert take out and load light crossbows, and the other men draw their swords. Osred says, "What now, Captain?"

[Ok. The group is in a natural depression about half a mile from the north side of the hill. There is some limited cover between the draw and the hall, but it is mostly scrub brush and small trees. No one is visible on the hill from this point. Rennik thinks it would take about 20 minutes to get to the hill, if everyone was staying in cover as much as possible. So, let me know what you want to do.]

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Hunting the Witch

How much time does Garyth estimate we have before we have to be ready?

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Hunting the Witch

Just a few weeks ago, Garyth would probably have charged in to take up positions for ambushing the witch. Just a few weeks ago, though, he had never felt his strength seep away with the blood drawn by a more skilled enemy's blade. This is too easy; there must be more to it.

He turns to the group. "It looks clear, but we don't know what sort of magics the witch may have used." Memories of the tower float to the surface of Garyth's mind. The guilt over what happened comes with it, but Garyth pushes the feeling down. There's no time for that. "She may have left an alarm or a trap. For all we know she may have cast some spell to hide sentries." He looks to Osred. "Do you have any way of sensing any magic she may have used, or any hidden troops?"

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Hunting the Witch

Osred purses his lips, squinting at the hill. "No, curse the luck. The spells I prayed for this morning had more to do with hurting the enemy than finding them. Even if Heironeus had blessed me with a way of detecting the bitch's craft, it wouldn't work from this distance."

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Hunting the Witch

Garyth nods. It had been an outside chance, anyway. "We'll have to do it the hard way, then." He glances toward the hill, taking in the distance. "Squads of three in a bounding overwatch. Rennik, Melani, and Pensive in the first group." The quietest and sharpest-eyed in the advance. That, and he knew how good they were. "The rest of us will provide cover. Osred, Pickle, and Munch on the left flank, Vincy, Robert, and I on the right." He unlimbers his bow and nocks an arrow, looking to Rennik. "Agreed?"

OOC: Basically the idea is to "leapfrog" by squads. 1st squad (Rennik, Melani, and Pensive) go ahead first a short way, the rest cover them until the first group finds a place to cover while 2nd and 3rd squads advance to the first position. Repeat until we get there.

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Hunting the Witch

IC: The group breaks from the main unit and heads to the hill. As they are riding Melani remembers that she had once been in this area many years ago. She closes her eyes, trying to recall the terrain and how they might be able to use it to their advantage. She recalls a draw on the north side of the hill and lets the Captain know about it. She is gratified to see that the Captain takes her advice.

Soon the are at a patch of woods, as close and she and Rennik think they can get on horse. She would have liked a bit more cover and a bit less light, but you work with what you have.

She talks with Rennik in halfling." I think I should scout ahead a bit and try and find the best path to the top of the hill. I think that I have the best chance of remaining hidden and silent. I am going to try and find a path that all of us can take with out too much noise, except the one in the metal suite."

Melani waits to hear what Rennick has to say.

Mark

Subject: Re: The Battle for Overlook; Hunting the Witch

Rennik responds to Melani with a nod. "This is wise, but two pairs of eyes may be better than one."

He moves toward Garyth and motions Melani to follow. The guardsman was finally learning caution, but he was not using all the resources at his command. He steps up to Garyth to speak quietly, not wishing to challenge his authority in front of his men.

"Friend Garyth, your men are well trained and capable fighters I am sure, but it might be wise to know what we are heading into first. If Melani and I scout the area ahead and return back, you will have better understanding of our enemy's position. We will have more time to plan our attack, and you will have a better understanding of where to place your force."

"I think we can be out and back very quickly if we each scout a different angle to the hill. It will give two perspectives and extra time to plan. If you feel two is too risky, then at least send one to report back on what there is to see. If only one is to be sent, I would recommend Reth'tenn Melani - as first scout of the Kalama, her skills in this area surpass mine, and she has a better knowledge of this area than myself."