Deqata looks at Jason, "A marchy area is located along the southern shore of the lake about five days travel. I have heard that people who venture into the area never come back out so they call it the black march or the marsh of death. I have never been there but many have said that the bones of those who venture in are found years later broken and dismembered. I would say stay clear of that area. As it does seem to be a good place to visit. They say it it wide extending more east and west than north and south but if you walk around it it can cuase you a significant delay." As far as normal goods he has a lot of bulk goods to include flour, water, grains and vegetables. He is short on metal stock as Merklin buys a lot of it but he expects to get some in this week. You also find out that while he does not support Merklin he has made peace with him to keep his business safe. The guy is not a nice person and while his realm is vast he is not one to be trifled with and he feels that he is a god here on this earth.
Keolatha will tell Grant. "I know of spells that allow some travel from one dimension to another but not sure how safe they are. They are expensive spells but I do not have any with me at this time. I can check on getting one if that is what you wish. Travel to the other planes are a bit simpilar and just needs a gate spell."
Responding to Keloatha, I ask "If you could give an idea of the price, that would be good, then I could let you know when I have the funds to order such a thing. At the very least, an idea of the capabilities of such a spell would be needed. I have a specific destination in mind."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?" "Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied ― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
I mark off the Marsh of Death as indicated. "All right then. Now, we spotted a big black dragon flying through the area not too long ago. We'd rather avoid that kind of threat as well. Any chance you know about where that one is most often seen?"
"And as to our neighbors to the north. What are they like? Think they would be interested in friendly arrangements?"
.Speaking to Jason Deqata says, "To the north of the lake is mostly wild country that while claimed by both the west and east sided no law is enforced there. The country to the East is open and welcoming and allows me to trade here. I get a lot of things brought to me that Merklin has purchased from me. Knowing that you represent the new power to the South west makes me happy and I think we can figure out a trading partnership to help him with his goals. I know he is going to be in a rough spot for a bit as Merklin is not a power that will just let him be. As far a black dragons in the area I have heard rumors but have not seen it for myself. It could be why the marsh lands are considered deadly but I can not say yes or no to that without first hand experience. I know that tales grow a lot from one mouth to another as it is passed around."
Keolatha will tell Grant "A gate spell or similar spell is expensive and could cost you around 1,000 gold. If you know of a mage I would ask them about it as they can tell you more about the magicks than I can as I only dabble in it and do not take it too seriously."
I grin, "Well, I think we can certainly help each other out, hopefully our influence will help improve things for you and many others." The smile disappears as I turn serious again. "Speaking of which, I have one last question. My companion here hails from an elven village that once stood a few days travel from the new stronghold. She was not present to see what happened to it or its residents, but it has been destroyed, scoured down to the bedrock so that nothing whatsoever remains. It looks like someone wanted to send a rather drastic message. Do you know anything of who or what might have been responsible? Was it Merklin?"
Later, I make an copy of our updated map, and send it back to the stronghold in Ping's care, along with a message, "We have made contact with the trading post at the edge of the lake. The couple living here have confirmed some additional details about the region. Of greatest immediate interest, another major power exists to the east as indicated. Unlike Merklin, they are described as open and welcoming. Confirming this description for ourselves seems prudent, but if it pans out, they could make for good allies in these lands"
"The trading post itself is neutral ground, and serves as a commerce point in between the two nations. Attached is a list of goods that they regularly have for trade in notable quantities. One of the pair apparently can request spell scrolls from somewhere, and did not balk at the possibility of ordering spells of a particularly rare variety if we could pay for them. I would consider making contact with her source to be a priority."
"To the west lies what the locals call the Marsh of Death. It sounds very promising as a possible location for the home of our deceased friend with the black scales. Even if that is the case, it seems highly likely that the dragon in question was not the only threat to inhabit the region, so we will proceed with great caution in regards to probing the area."
Travis, asks lady Keolatha about the spells. "Yes, lady Keolatha I would like to purchase one divine scroll called 'flaming sword',a second level 'divine'spell for 200 gold pieces please," He says and deposits 200 gold across the table.
A 3-foot-long, blazing beam of red-hot fire springs forth from your hand. You wield this bladelike beam as if it were a scimitar. Attacks with the flame blade are melee touch attacks. The blade deals 1d8 points of fire damage +1 point per two caster levels (maximum +10). Since the blade is immaterial, your Strength modifier does not apply to the damage. A flame blade can ignite combustible materials such as parchment, straw, dry sticks, and cloth.
When i find a moment i will speak with Jason alone. Speaking quietly I say, " Jason , do you want me to use eagle form to scout the marsh area? I can stay aloft a few hours and can hopefully pinpoint what we are looking for. It can be started immediately while all of you are still here. I finished my first priority for now. " I nod and grin towards where Caesar watches over my 2 bolts of silk.
Listening to Keolatha, she seemed to be straight forward with her answers. The inclusion of a map of the known area was greatly needed. When Jason asks about the village I chime in, "also, if you've heard anything about anyone there surviving."
At Jonathan's addition, I wince and look to Thalica, I'm unsure how I want the trademaster to answer that one. Probably false hope that her kin still lives could be toxic. An actual reunion would be joyful of course, but to keep looking only to find nothing, or even yet more pain...
When Rachel asks about scouting, I'm quick to shake my head, "If you are willing, its a good idea, but not now. If you go and there's trouble, we'll be a full five day's travel away. Lets get a bit closer the conventional way, and then send you ahead with Ariel or Ping in tow. That will give us two pairs of eyes for spotting, make it much less likely that you have trouble returning to us, and give us a quick way for the rest of us to know what is happening on your end."
He answers, "The way you describe the village being wiped out is something the Merklin has done to people that displease him. HE tends to kill all and make sure that a solid message is sent to others that he will not allow any disobedience at all. You do as he says or you cease to exist. I know he has not always been pleased with me but he also knows that he would not be able to trade with others as they do not care for him at all. He owns the largest bit of property on this world and other nations fear him. With the new arrival here his attention is turned away from the others for now. I have not heard of any survivors from that village. Sorry I can not tell you more."
The lady of the post goes to a back area and soon returns with a scroll that you desired.
My hand tightens into a fist at the confirmation of what I'd long suspected. This Merklin had much to answer for. "Thank you, Deqata, you have been most helpful. Chances are we'll be popping in here from time to time, and I think you can expect to see some tradesman from our end soon as well."
My expression going cold and frozen as I hear confirmation of the brutality of this so-called “ruler”, I ponder how easy assassination might be with even a basic rifle in the world. *Sounds remarkably like some of our more recent horrors in our own world. Who destroys an entire village as punishment? True evil* I think to myself, anger broiling in my soul.
Out loud I say with false heartiness “Yes, having a good trading partner will be an excellent advantage. We’ll be back often, I’m sure. “
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?" "Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied ― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
My grin freezes as i hear more of Merklin. Disgusted by this news i decide to step outside. Hoping to find this world better than our own this seems to very much contradict that. I walk over and stand by Caesar. " This Merklin needs to be dealt with one day. Those poor elves. " I say all of this very quietly to him. Caesar senses my anger and looks around for the cause of it
"So, he is responsible for wiping out the Elves well damn him to hell then I say. Rest, assured he will get whats owing to him," Travis, says quietly to Rachel. He, still recollecting the atrocities committed against the Elves like a nightmare.
You all are soon ready to move on and heading out of the trading post as you hear and see a large boat or a small ship making its way to the peir. You can hear the shouts of men as they work the rigging of the sails to bring the boat in gently into the dock at about the halfway mark. The flag on the boat is red with a stylish M that you all are familiar with on it.
After looking over the ship, I look to the others, "Remember, this place is neutral ground. We start a scene here, and we'll be causing trouble for much more than just the traders who run the post. Keep an eye out for trouble, but lets see if they feel like talking. Who wants to take point?"
I look at the incoming ship and frown. " More of those bastards. I think it should be a man taking point on this meeting. Women dont receive much respect in worlds like this for the most part. Maybe Caesar can take the lead. " I laugh as i say this. Caesar looks indignant if possible for a gorilla. He frowns and beats his chest.
Nodding to Jason without taking my eyes off the incoming enemy, I state "It won't be us who start something here, I can tell you that, but if they take any threatening stances, they'd better be able to swim in armour." Running through a personal inventory, i keep a couple of icons handy and my sword loose in it's scabbard on my back. "As far as Caeser goes, he'd be better able to restrain himself from violence than I, if these men are anything like Merklin's other forces."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?" "Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied ― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
Seeing the ship approach and knowing with their so called ruler has done, I place as much of a blank expression on my face as I can, while my mind is wanting to send them a nice energy ray to show exactly how I feel about their leader.
I decide to be close to Rachel and Caesar and be ready if anything that might go array. Letting one of the men take point, I suggest to the elf teens to stay close to Rachel and I, and even stay in the groove of trees near by. No neeed for "M" to know that he didn't completely wipe out the vilage. Will sugest such to Jason and Q as well. They might not be best obe sto speak with the crew aboard the ship, but I could be wrong.
You soon see Deqata walking along the dock to the boat. A rather large human steps off the boat and then manhandles the gangway to set it in place so others can more easily step off the boat onto the dock. Seeing Deqata walking up towards them the big man gets a huge grin on his face and gives Deqata a hug wrapping his arms around him and lifting him like he weighted nothing. Deqata hugs him back and soon is set back down. You hear Deqata address the bigger man. "My brother it is good to see you once again. You must come in and have some tea." As they walk towards the trading Post Deqata introduces you to the man. "Let me introduce you to my elder brother Sagwalg. He makes many a trip across the big lake and he may be able to answer some questions about the marsh you were seeking. "
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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Deqata looks at Jason, "A marchy area is located along the southern shore of the lake about five days travel. I have heard that people who venture into the area never come back out so they call it the black march or the marsh of death. I have never been there but many have said that the bones of those who venture in are found years later broken and dismembered. I would say stay clear of that area. As it does seem to be a good place to visit. They say it it wide extending more east and west than north and south but if you walk around it it can cuase you a significant delay." As far as normal goods he has a lot of bulk goods to include flour, water, grains and vegetables. He is short on metal stock as Merklin buys a lot of it but he expects to get some in this week. You also find out that while he does not support Merklin he has made peace with him to keep his business safe. The guy is not a nice person and while his realm is vast he is not one to be trifled with and he feels that he is a god here on this earth.
Keolatha will tell Grant. "I know of spells that allow some travel from one dimension to another but not sure how safe they are. They are expensive spells but I do not have any with me at this time. I can check on getting one if that is what you wish. Travel to the other planes are a bit simpilar and just needs a gate spell."
Responding to Keloatha, I ask "If you could give an idea of the price, that would be good, then I could let you know when I have the funds to order such a thing. At the very least, an idea of the capabilities of such a spell would be needed. I have a specific destination in mind."
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?"
"Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied
― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
I mark off the Marsh of Death as indicated. "All right then. Now, we spotted a big black dragon flying through the area not too long ago. We'd rather avoid that kind of threat as well. Any chance you know about where that one is most often seen?"
"And as to our neighbors to the north. What are they like? Think they would be interested in friendly arrangements?"
.Speaking to Jason Deqata says, "To the north of the lake is mostly wild country that while claimed by both the west and east sided no law is enforced there. The country to the East is open and welcoming and allows me to trade here. I get a lot of things brought to me that Merklin has purchased from me. Knowing that you represent the new power to the South west makes me happy and I think we can figure out a trading partnership to help him with his goals. I know he is going to be in a rough spot for a bit as Merklin is not a power that will just let him be. As far a black dragons in the area I have heard rumors but have not seen it for myself. It could be why the marsh lands are considered deadly but I can not say yes or no to that without first hand experience. I know that tales grow a lot from one mouth to another as it is passed around."
Keolatha will tell Grant "A gate spell or similar spell is expensive and could cost you around 1,000 gold. If you know of a mage I would ask them about it as they can tell you more about the magicks than I can as I only dabble in it and do not take it too seriously."
I grin, "Well, I think we can certainly help each other out, hopefully our influence will help improve things for you and many others." The smile disappears as I turn serious again. "Speaking of which, I have one last question. My companion here hails from an elven village that once stood a few days travel from the new stronghold. She was not present to see what happened to it or its residents, but it has been destroyed, scoured down to the bedrock so that nothing whatsoever remains. It looks like someone wanted to send a rather drastic message. Do you know anything of who or what might have been responsible? Was it Merklin?"
Later, I make an copy of our updated map, and send it back to the stronghold in Ping's care, along with a message, "We have made contact with the trading post at the edge of the lake. The couple living here have confirmed some additional details about the region. Of greatest immediate interest, another major power exists to the east as indicated. Unlike Merklin, they are described as open and welcoming. Confirming this description for ourselves seems prudent, but if it pans out, they could make for good allies in these lands"
"The trading post itself is neutral ground, and serves as a commerce point in between the two nations. Attached is a list of goods that they regularly have for trade in notable quantities. One of the pair apparently can request spell scrolls from somewhere, and did not balk at the possibility of ordering spells of a particularly rare variety if we could pay for them. I would consider making contact with her source to be a priority."
"To the west lies what the locals call the Marsh of Death. It sounds very promising as a possible location for the home of our deceased friend with the black scales. Even if that is the case, it seems highly likely that the dragon in question was not the only threat to inhabit the region, so we will proceed with great caution in regards to probing the area."
Travis, asks lady Keolatha about the spells. "Yes, lady Keolatha I would like to purchase one divine scroll called 'flaming sword', a second level 'divine' spell for 200 gold pieces please," He says and deposits 200 gold across the table.
Notes
Evocation [Fire]
A 3-foot-long, blazing beam of red-hot fire springs forth from your hand. You wield this bladelike beam as if it were a scimitar. Attacks with the flame blade are melee touch attacks. The blade deals 1d8 points of fire damage +1 point per two caster levels (maximum +10). Since the blade is immaterial, your Strength modifier does not apply to the damage. A flame blade can ignite combustible materials such as parchment, straw, dry sticks, and cloth.
The spell does not function underwater.
When i find a moment i will speak with Jason alone. Speaking quietly I say, " Jason , do you want me to use eagle form to scout the marsh area? I can stay aloft a few hours and can hopefully pinpoint what we are looking for. It can be started immediately while all of you are still here. I finished my first priority for now. " I nod and grin towards where Caesar watches over my 2 bolts of silk.
Listening to Keolatha, she seemed to be straight forward with her answers. The inclusion of a map of the known area was greatly needed. When Jason asks about the village I chime in, "also, if you've heard anything about anyone there surviving."
At Jonathan's addition, I wince and look to Thalica, I'm unsure how I want the trademaster to answer that one. Probably false hope that her kin still lives could be toxic. An actual reunion would be joyful of course, but to keep looking only to find nothing, or even yet more pain...
When Rachel asks about scouting, I'm quick to shake my head, "If you are willing, its a good idea, but not now. If you go and there's trouble, we'll be a full five day's travel away. Lets get a bit closer the conventional way, and then send you ahead with Ariel or Ping in tow. That will give us two pairs of eyes for spotting, make it much less likely that you have trouble returning to us, and give us a quick way for the rest of us to know what is happening on your end."
He answers, "The way you describe the village being wiped out is something the Merklin has done to people that displease him. HE tends to kill all and make sure that a solid message is sent to others that he will not allow any disobedience at all. You do as he says or you cease to exist. I know he has not always been pleased with me but he also knows that he would not be able to trade with others as they do not care for him at all. He owns the largest bit of property on this world and other nations fear him. With the new arrival here his attention is turned away from the others for now. I have not heard of any survivors from that village. Sorry I can not tell you more."
The lady of the post goes to a back area and soon returns with a scroll that you desired.
My hand tightens into a fist at the confirmation of what I'd long suspected. This Merklin had much to answer for. "Thank you, Deqata, you have been most helpful. Chances are we'll be popping in here from time to time, and I think you can expect to see some tradesman from our end soon as well."
My expression going cold and frozen as I hear confirmation of the brutality of this so-called “ruler”, I ponder how easy assassination might be with even a basic rifle in the world. *Sounds remarkably like some of our more recent horrors in our own world. Who destroys an entire village as punishment? True evil* I think to myself, anger broiling in my soul.
Out loud I say with false heartiness “Yes, having a good trading partner will be an excellent advantage. We’ll be back often, I’m sure. “
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?"
"Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied
― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
My grin freezes as i hear more of Merklin. Disgusted by this news i decide to step outside. Hoping to find this world better than our own this seems to very much contradict that. I walk over and stand by Caesar. " This Merklin needs to be dealt with one day. Those poor elves. " I say all of this very quietly to him. Caesar senses my anger and looks around for the cause of it
"So, he is responsible for wiping out the Elves well damn him to hell then I say. Rest, assured he will get whats owing to him," Travis, says quietly to Rachel. He, still recollecting the atrocities committed against the Elves like a nightmare.
You all are soon ready to move on and heading out of the trading post as you hear and see a large boat or a small ship making its way to the peir. You can hear the shouts of men as they work the rigging of the sails to bring the boat in gently into the dock at about the halfway mark. The flag on the boat is red with a stylish M that you all are familiar with on it.
After looking over the ship, I look to the others, "Remember, this place is neutral ground. We start a scene here, and we'll be causing trouble for much more than just the traders who run the post. Keep an eye out for trouble, but lets see if they feel like talking. Who wants to take point?"
I look at the incoming ship and frown. " More of those bastards. I think it should be a man taking point on this meeting. Women dont receive much respect in worlds like this for the most part. Maybe Caesar can take the lead. " I laugh as i say this. Caesar looks indignant if possible for a gorilla. He frowns and beats his chest.
Nodding to Jason without taking my eyes off the incoming enemy, I state "It won't be us who start something here, I can tell you that, but if they take any threatening stances, they'd better be able to swim in armour." Running through a personal inventory, i keep a couple of icons handy and my sword loose in it's scabbard on my back. "As far as Caeser goes, he'd be better able to restrain himself from violence than I, if these men are anything like Merklin's other forces."
“Can you tell me the difference between a witch and a wizard?"
"Sure, a wizard is what they call you when they want to hire you, and a witch is what they call you when they're getting ready to run you out of town.” SunWolf replied
― Barbara Hambly, The Witches of Wenshar
Seeing the ship approach and knowing with their so called ruler has done, I place as much of a blank expression on my face as I can, while my mind is wanting to send them a nice energy ray to show exactly how I feel about their leader.
I decide to be close to Rachel and Caesar and be ready if anything that might go array. Letting one of the men take point, I suggest to the elf teens to stay close to Rachel and I, and even stay in the groove of trees near by. No neeed for "M" to know that he didn't completely wipe out the vilage. Will sugest such to Jason and Q as well. They might not be best obe sto speak with the crew aboard the ship, but I could be wrong.
You soon see Deqata walking along the dock to the boat. A rather large human steps off the boat and then manhandles the gangway to set it in place so others can more easily step off the boat onto the dock. Seeing Deqata walking up towards them the big man gets a huge grin on his face and gives Deqata a hug wrapping his arms around him and lifting him like he weighted nothing. Deqata hugs him back and soon is set back down. You hear Deqata address the bigger man. "My brother it is good to see you once again. You must come in and have some tea." As they walk towards the trading Post Deqata introduces you to the man. "Let me introduce you to my elder brother Sagwalg. He makes many a trip across the big lake and he may be able to answer some questions about the marsh you were seeking. "