They had all been exhausted the night before, and none of them had gotten enough rest. The climb down had only compounded their aches and pains, and then they'd had to climb back up. Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o… hadn't used his climbing muscles in months, and the others were just discovering theirs. If the way they felt now was any indication, they'd hardly be able to move tomorrow.
The silence of the villagers was a blessing, but it was a blessing that couldn't last. Within a few minutes, their curiosity overcame their caution and they asked incessantly about every aspect of the adventure. Finally, Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o… answered their questions, letting the less experienced climbers lie on the ground and wait for their bodies to start working again.
“You should not go down the rift,” Sahl advised. “There is a dangerous animal there that can see in the dark and feeds on your flesh, but you cannot even feel when it is feeding. I think it has some poison in its spit which makes the wound go numb. Also there is poison on its skin.” Sahl described the creature. “We have captured one and put it in this bag. We will take it to the baron to show him. The good news is that these creatures cannot stand the light. They will flee even the light of a torch. Spread the news to the people living close to the rift but tell them not to panic. These creatures live in the dark, they will not come out during the day. I don't know if they will come up at night, but I would be careful for the next few weeks and carry a lighted torch if I had to go out at night. Be careful anyway. There may be other dangers.”
Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o… tried to answer questions until the villagers were satisfied, but he had to send them away when he found he was repeating himself. Like little children, they wanted to hear the story of Sahl's adventure over and over.
When the area was a little more clear, Sahl spoke to his colleagues. “As I said before, I think these earthquakes are due to the coming of the Zioth, and they will get worse until the world is destroyed. We need to investigate this to see how people can survive it. I believe that we should get the baron involved so that he can pay for scholars to investigate this matter, make plans to deal with these kinds of emergencies, and send us as a party to investigate where there may be useful artifacts or information, but there may be danger. We need to go to the market and get a secure cage for this thing with a cloth to keep it dark, and secure poles fixed to it so that we can lift it without getting close enough to poison. Then we need to get the Zioth expert Hal and his friend Redbelve to prepare to meet the baron this evening. Then we can wash and rest for a couple of hours before we go to the meeting. Is that okay with everyone?”
Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. rubbed his face slowly, tiredly, with the heels of both trembling hands. “What you want, Sahl,” he said in a strangled voice, “does not matter to me, if you let me eat and drink something.”
Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden., though she was as tired as Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions., agreed with Sahl. The baron had asked for a report by evening, so that was when they would go. Sahl suggested they bring Redbelve and Hal. That would get both matters sorted out at once. With all that was going on in Huerten, they couldn't expect two meetings from the baron.
From a distance, the city looked no better for the few hours spent away, but as they got closer, they saw that the people of Huerten were already rebuilding. Everyone who had been crying hopelessly at their doorsteps, all those pleading with temples or begging at the doors of those whose homes had survived, all the naysayers and doomsayers, had either begun to help or had been pushed out of the way, kept inside where they wouldn't interfere with the work that had to be done. Winter was coming, and they were saying it would be a hard one. This was no time for mourning.
With all the work going on, it was hard to find a place to rest or food to eat. There was one place, however, where Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. knew she could find both. While Sahl set out looking for a cage, Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. brought Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. and Kayplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of to the temple. As soon as she neared the door, though, she was accosted by the priests. They needed her to resume her healing. People were dying – some had already died – and Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. was the only one who could save the worst cases. Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. had to explain that her healing powers were nearly exhausted from the work done earlier in the day, but that didn't satisfy them. While Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. and Kayplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of scrounged up some food and found relatively quiet corners where they could doze off, Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. used the remainder of her magic and then helped with her more mundane skills. It was quite a while before she could join the others for a much-needed rest.
It was even longer before Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o… returned. He had his cloth- darkened cage, one that looked strong enough to hold the rift-creature, with a heavy padlock which, while not of the finest quality, was enough to keep the cage secure. He had found Hal but had given up on Redbelve. Hopefully, Hal would be able to find his friend before the meeting with the baron. The scholar had been fascinated by, and more a little afraid of, the caged creature. He had never heard of such a beast, but promised to find out what he could.
Besides the frantic activity of the temple, things were quiet for a few hours, and even the temple activity was quickly relegated to background noise. Then the cage started to shake and rattle, and shortly fell over, leaving the cloth to flutter to the floor. The creature's squeals were all but inaudible, but the fallen cage caught people's attention.
While a crowd formed around him, Sahl righted the cage and made sure the creature wasn't suffering. Leaving the others to guard the cage and deal with the crowd, he replaced the drapes and set off to find a dish of water and a live chicken to feed the creature. Then a thought struck him. He turned around and checked the cage to be sure it wasn't weakened. “We don't know if the creature is capable of breaking out of the bottom of the cage,” he said. “We will look foolish presenting an empty cage to the baron.” There were some signs of wear – it had been trying to chew its way out – but it hadn't made much progress through the iron. Satisfied for the time being, Sahl put the cage on a table and went to find food.
The others were left to answer the crowd's questions. Everyone in the temple, healer and patient alike, wanted to know what was in the cage and where it came from. By the time Sahl returned and awed the crowd by feeding the creature, it seemed like an exceptionally good time to have clothing patched and armor repaired, and to clean up for the upcoming meeting.
Miraculously, the castle, with its stone walls, was still in reasonable shape. Much of the decrepit outer wall, however, had finally crumbled. Knights patrolled the wall on horseback, each carrying a lantern, to make sure no one slipped through uninvited.
Hal and Redbelve were waiting near what was left of the castle gates. Both wore their finest – Redbelve his freshly-polished armor and Hal the best suit he could afford on a scribe's salary. Both were better dressed than any of the party, who owned little but their travel clothes. At least none of them wore the patched and bloody clothes that had accompanied them into the rift.
“Not sure why you wanted me in on this, Sahl,” Redbelve said, “unless it was to drag all this junk around.” Hal's precious chest of documents was sitting on the road next to him. A sack rested on top of that, and another was strapped to Hal's back, making his slight frame look comically overloaded. Hal's arms were wrapped around an immensity of parchment and paper, tied haphazardly together in little bundles.
“You are here, Redbelve, because you insisted,” Hal said. His eyes darted around nervously when a slight gust of wind played with the corners of his papers.
“Alright, alright. I wish we had a cart, though. I used to own one before it was crushed by the north wall of my house. So what's the plan?” He looked at Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o….
“First we report to the Baron on our first trip into the rift, show him the creature etc, explain how they could be a danger at nights, and point out that the rift must be explored to see if other dangers exist. Then we present Hal as the Zioth expert. Now Hal, you must make our case that the Zioth destroyed the lands once and that these calamities will get worse until the world is destroyed again. Remember that the Baron is a practical man who is concerned in the practical safety of his realm. You must not appear like a wild person to him. Present your knowledge in simple practical way. Point out that if these quakes get worse he can do simple practical things to make the situation better. He can set up a fire service or militia to deal with earthquakes. He can stop people building high buildings which can collapse, or building near rivers which will flood in an earthquake etc.
“Finally, ask him to fund us as a group to investigate the Zioth and to try to find a way to survive it. As a first step we should investigate this rift. It may have no knowledge to offer on the Zioth, but it poses an immediate threat.”
Hal was silent for a few seconds as he processed the instructions. “That sounds reasonable,” he finally said. “I have also obtained a small amount of information regarding the creature, which I will present to the baron.”
Redbelve smiled. “We'll see if that works. The baron's not superstitious, as he puts it. Maybe after you show him the thing in that cage, he'll change his mind. So who are your friends? And what happened to Johannesplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigMaster Johannes Eltermann
Johannes Eltermann is very tall, and slightly more slender than average, and has a well-defined, delicate bone structure. His hair and eyes are dark brown. He keeps himself well-groomed and clean-shaven, and tends to dress in plain but well-tailored clothing in dark, formal colors. The lack of ostentation flaunts his taste. He currently wears good-quality traveling clothes with matching boots, a belt, from which a dagger hangs, and a cloak.?”
Hal looked at Redbelve, confused. “I thought I told you. Master Eltermann visited me some days ago, asking if I knew anything about a strange disease that has plagued his… wife, I think? Today, he returned to see whether I had found anything.” He stopped, apparently finished, but as soon as Redbelve opened his mouth he continued. “I told him what little I had learned. It seems his wife has disappeared, and he has set out to find her.”
This time, Redbelve counted to ten before deciding that Hal was really done. “Fair enough. So who are your friends? You're Terradian, aren't you?” he asked Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions..
Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. nodded, hoping this fact wasn't about to prove a point of contention.
Redbelve laughed. “Don't worry. I'm only trained to kill you if your governments cause trouble. In peace time, I wouldn't know where to find my sword.” To demonstrate, he reached toward his right hip with his left hand and groped around for a sword which was on the other side. Finding nothing, he spread his hands out in front of him. “See? Totally incompetent. And who are these lovely ladies?”
“How do you do, Redbelve,” Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. said. “I am Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden., Priestess of Andrithaplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigAndrithanism
Based on original ideas from Karl Schinke (Ardith). Symbols for aspects other than the Mother, along with the artwork, were contributed by Myron Wyles (Halaren).
Andrithanism and its variants are the dominant religion in Rang and the surrounding kingdoms. Within the boundaries of, and this is my friend, Kay Wanderwitplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of. Pleased to make your acquaintance, sir.” Kayplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of said nothing, but gave a slight bow and smiled.
“Priestess Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden.. So you're the one who's been healing with a touch, starting blizzards and blowing the windows out of temples. I'm in awe. I have to be honest with you. At the age of six, I stopped believing in all these stories about magic and monsters. Until I met Hal here, I didn't even believe in the Zioth. Things sure have turned around. Though I guess for you, they've always been turned around.”
Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. answered with a smile.
“Alright. Now that that's all settled, let's be off! Someone give Halkakplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe Five Moons
Five moons rise and set in the sky of Aerv, never crossing paths. At the end of the world, they will all wane together, and diminish to nothing for the Zioth.
Quite a lot of mythology centers around the moons. Zahirans' theology revolves around the Moon Children. The Moon Wanderers in the Shirahjat Cohilition migrate with the rising and setting of the moons in ways that only they fully understand. –”
“Hal, please.”
Redbelve smirked. “Someone give Halkakplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe Five Moons
Five moons rise and set in the sky of Aerv, never crossing paths. At the end of the world, they will all wane together, and diminish to nothing for the Zioth.
Quite a lot of mythology centers around the moons. Zahirans' theology revolves around the Moon Children. The Moon Wanderers in the Shirahjat Cohilition migrate with the rising and setting of the moons in ways that only they fully understand. a hand. He's afraid the wind's going to strip off his clothes.”
Kayplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of and Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. offered to help, only to be pounced on by Hal. “Be _very_ careful with those. You don't know how old they are. No, stop. Do you know what careful means? You're tearing it! Stop. No, no. I'll carry them.” He said all this before they'd done more than touch the papers, so they left the scholar to himself. Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. took one end of the heavy chest Redbelve was carrying, and the six of them headed for the castle.
With Redbelve in the lead, getting in posed no difficulty. Moving around inside the castle was much harder. People were everywhere, some cleaning up after the earthquake or repairing cracks in the walls, but most just hurrying from one place to another. The group was directed to the long line leading to the office of the Second Clerk, where they waited for close to an hour. When they were finally admitted, they saw the office no less disarrayed than when Kreemon had taken the Clerk hostage.
The Second Clerk was busy at his desk, scribbling notes, handing them off, having terse conversations with each person who arrived and then getting rid of the person as fast as possible. He looked utterly exhausted, but then, so did everyone.
“Oh, it's you,” he said, looking up at Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o…. He handed a note to one of five running-boys who waited around him. The boy hurried out. “I suppose your manner of dress can be forgiven, given the situation outside. You –” he pointed at one of the boys. “Inform the baron.”
“What –” the boy began.
“Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. and Salmon. They have an appointment.” The boy nodded and ran off. “Wait outside my office.” As the group filed out, he added, “any news on Kreemon Fangly?”
“No news. I expect he is avoiding us. We may have seen him from a distance near the rift, but it was a long way away and I could be mistaken.”
“The rift? Then he has used the earthquake as an opportunity to escape. How one man can hide from all the knights of Huerten is beyond my comprehension. Wait outside.”
The people in the crowded hallway gave Sahl's rattling cage plenty of room, but no one asked questions. These were knights, burghers, guild-masters and administrators, and while they were curious, they weren't about to crowd around and pelt Sahl with questions like common street-people.
It was another half hour before the boy returned. When he did appear, he led them wordlessly to the baron's office, which had a shorter but slower-moving crowd outside of it. This was less a line than a cluster of people milling about, but there was an order to it; Everyone seemed to know when it was his turn to enter. In another hour and a half – three hours since they'd entered the castle – Sahl and Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. were called in by name.
The baron's office was larger than the Second Clerk's. Its shape was odd, like it had been merged together from several adjoining closets. A half-dozen alcoves contained chairs or cabinets or, in one case, an empty suit of armor. Besides the baron, who looked almost as exhausted as the Second Clerk, two knights in chainmail stood in the room, possibly as guards. The herald who had called Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. and Sahl was sitting near the doorway.
The room was decorated to make it look impressive, with flags, swords and official documents, and a few preserved animals along one shelf. Right now, however, the effect was lost. The stuffed eagle had been bent slightly out of shape, and several items were still on the floor, waiting to be re-mounted. An official land-grant, signed and sealed by the king, was hanging on the wall in a warped and broken frame.
The baron sighed. “I apologize for the delay. You can imagine that things have been a bit crazy. I wasn't told that _you_ were here as well,” he said, looking at Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions.. “Let's start with that, then. What did you learn about these devil-creatures and the new rift? Rumor has it you brought one back with you.” He glanced over his desk at the cage on the floor next to Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o….
Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. inclined his head, hands clasped formally behind his back, and opened his mouth to speak, but didn't get a word out before Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o… smoothly stepped in.
“First let me introduce you to these people, my lord. This is Halkakplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe Five Moons
Five moons rise and set in the sky of Aerv, never crossing paths. At the end of the world, they will all wane together, and diminish to nothing for the Zioth.
Quite a lot of mythology centers around the moons. Zahirans' theology revolves around the Moon Children. The Moon Wanderers in the Shirahjat Cohilition migrate with the rising and setting of the moons in ways that only they fully understand., an expert on the Zioth” – the baron grinned when he heard the name, the same as that of the brightest of the moons – “and his friend, the knight Redbelve. Halkakplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe Five Moons
Five moons rise and set in the sky of Aerv, never crossing paths. At the end of the world, they will all wane together, and diminish to nothing for the Zioth.
Quite a lot of mythology centers around the moons. Zahirans' theology revolves around the Moon Children. The Moon Wanderers in the Shirahjat Cohilition migrate with the rising and setting of the moons in ways that only they fully understand. will tell us later about the Zioth. He also has heard of these creatures.
“Now about the Rift. It is a perilous place. Fortunately, Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. here and I are sturdy men, and we had the healing and guidance of Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden., or we would have died. The rift has treacherous footing and many caves and tunnels. The light only penetrates to the inner depths near midday, so to investigate it you must carry torches or other light source.
“The only living creature we found was a beast which feeds on flesh in a very clever way. It has something in its bite that makes the person bitten numb to pain, so you cannot even tell if it has bitten you. It is small but tough to kill, like a badger, and its skin is poison to the touch. The great weakness it has is that it cannot bear the light, and can be driven away, even by a torch.
“I have such a captive beast in this cage. Baron, please ask for the light to be dimmed so that I can remove the cover without the light driving it mad.”
Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. silently nodded. Kayplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of stood stolid, watching.
Baron Huerten waved his hand, and one of his attendants covered the lamps. It was still considerably lighter than in the rift, but perhaps this would be enough. With his back to the small fireplace so as to block its light with his body, Sahl uncovered the cage. The creature immediately squealed and scurried around in a panic, trying to escape.
All eyes were on the cage. No one spoke for a long moment. Then Hal broke the silence. “The… the c-creature… I…” He took a breath. “I have found references to animals bearing a resemblance in texts possessed by my colleagues. There are stories of cradles emptied in the night and nothing but blood left behind. In many of the villages surrounding Huerten, people still keep lamps lit all night to drive away…” He took one sheet from his bundle, unrolled it and read, ”'the beast whose touch deadens, whose sight blinds, who consumes the body and corrupts the soul….' It goes on much like that, in verse. Written in Huerten Cityplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigHuerten City
With ten thousand people and a disproportionately large military, Huerten City is the largest and most powerful population center in Rang. Baron Huerten lives in the center of the city, in his castle, the outer walls of which long ago crumbled to ruin., seven oh three. Later, the creature is described in more detail, which leads me to believe that we are looking at one of the same. They are said to have been exterminated more than three hundred years ago – or driven away – it is unclear – by, the text claims, magic.” He searched for his place, then put the sheet down and picked up another, ”'The Great Communion of six eighty nine to six ninety seven gathered at the enclave with the Ritualists of Eight' – that is, there were eight of them, I think – 'and performed the Expunging in unison, driving the volesveinagvergger' – that is what they were called, I believe. The word has no translation I know of – 'into the fiery underworld, where they would suffer the same torture that they imposed….'” I am translating as I go, of course. The language is not entirely Rouchplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigLanguage
Rouch
Rouch is the vernacular, or common tongue, spoken throughout Rang. Because of Rang's influence, it's also a trade language in the surrounding kingdoms.
Sarnam
Sarnam is the “old tongue,” spoken by the priests of Andritha. Most of the nobly-born are familiar with the language., but rather a slight variation on Sarnamplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigLanguage
Rouch
Rouch is the vernacular, or common tongue, spoken throughout Rang. Because of Rang's influence, it's also a trade language in the surrounding kingdoms.
Sarnam
Sarnam is the “old tongue,” spoken by the priests of Andritha. Most of the nobly-born are familiar with the language., with words from Rouchplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigLanguage
Rouch
Rouch is the vernacular, or common tongue, spoken throughout Rang. Because of Rang's influence, it's also a trade language in the surrounding kingdoms.
Sarnam
Sarnam is the “old tongue,” spoken by the priests of Andritha. Most of the nobly-born are familiar with the language. scattered throughout. The next –“
“Alright,” the baron interrupted. “I think I get the idea. Are there any details on this 'Expunging' and how to do it? Anything about the threat these voles… these creatures pose or how to get rid of them?”
“It says… The next document,” Hal continued, “details a numbing salve derived from the volesveinagverggers' poison – not an actual recipe, but the method of its use to ease the pain of the injured during surgical procedures –”
“Never mind. I will have men watch the rift, to ensure that none of the creatures escape. The population of Huerten will be warned to watch out for them. There should be nothing to fear. Winter is almost here, so everyone who can afford it will have a fire burning in his hearth anyway, which should be enough to frighten them off. So what will we call these creatures? Their old name is too long for people to remember. I assume you discovered them.” His attention was once again on Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions.. “I give you the right to name them.”
Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. was taken aback. He stuttered for a second, then fell into deep thought.
“My Lord,” Sahl said, “the matter may be more serious than that. Our information is very limited at this time. We have discovered only one type of creature, but there may be many different and more dangerous creatures in the rift. I suggest patrols of half a dozen men at arms around the rift, with dogs to give warning, horns to summon aid, and torches ready to light at a moment's notice. Maybe a small fortified stockade erected close by as a base for those patrols, with a dozen mounted knights ready to respond if the patrols call for help.
“One thing that troubles me is that the menace was thought important enough to require a gathering of mages to deal with it. We have no such resources. Therefore we should be on our guard. I also don't like the mention about corrupting the souls.
“Undoubtedly we will need to mount more expeditions into the rift to learn more. With better light, and more men. However, I would also like to get on to the subject of the Zioth which is causing all these events. With your permission Baron….”
“I'm not convinced the mythical Zioth is at fault here, but I did promise you an audience for this express purpose.”
Hal began to answer before Sahl's mouth was fully open. “I have collected an extensive … uh … collection of works, many over the past twenty years, some over the past day or two from my colleagues here in Huerten. While some of them were skeptical, most were thrilled to have the opportunity to present their findings to you.” Hal crouched down and tried one, then another key in the lock on his chest, each time making more noise than was necessary, but enough to give a sense of drama to the operation. The baron sunk a bit in his chair. “Some of these works date back almost to the moment of the Zioth – the previous one, of course.” Hal opened the chest and delicately withdrew the top half of a decaying tome. “This one is from the early three hundreds. It is an original, never copied.” He opened the book and read a language that no one else in the room understood. Then he translated what he could, and then went back to the text. After a few minutes of this, the baron interrupted.
“My time is limited. If you could just skip to the important part –.”
“Of course, my lord.” Hal skimmed the page, turned it, and read from the top of the next page. “This passage is particularly important. It's really the part that allowed me to understand the entire text, since the language ties in with the previous and following, and gives some hint as to the missing sections.” He proceeded to read and explain things that, while perhaps interesting to a linguist, could put anyone else to sleep. He then went on to the next page.
“I understand,” the baron said. “These lizard-creatures had meetings which purposely excluded humans. Now if you could summarize the rest, I would be appreciative.”
“Of course. All of the rest makes sense if you understand the use of the conjunction 'fer,' here. The word is most similar to the Sarnamplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigLanguage
Rouch
Rouch is the vernacular, or common tongue, spoken throughout Rang. Because of Rang's influence, it's also a trade language in the surrounding kingdoms.
Sarnam
Sarnam is the “old tongue,” spoken by the priests of Andritha. Most of the nobly-born are familiar with the language. prefix for 'and,' but if you compare this against other sources of the time, such as the well-known religious treatise, 'Cortlegge Tutelenimus' of four twenty one, you'll find that it is much more likely to mean 'but,' or, more precisely, 'and or but,' which in modern Rouchplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigLanguage
Rouch
Rouch is the vernacular, or common tongue, spoken throughout Rang. Because of Rang's influence, it's also a trade language in the surrounding kingdoms.
Sarnam
Sarnam is the “old tongue,” spoken by the priests of Andritha. Most of the nobly-born are familiar with the language. collapses to the more simple 'but.'”
“Let me try,” Redbelve said. “We don't have much time, Hal. Just give us an outline. Just the gist of it.” Hal nodded and reached in for the next book, and Redbelve touched a hand to Hal's wrist. “You know the books well enough. Just a summary. You know, the stuff you tell to nincompoops like me.”
“But the baron –”
He glanced at the baron for approval. “Would be happy to be treated like a nincompoop if it means he can get on to the other important things he has to do tonight.”
“But without the proper contextual –”
“Hal, just a summary.”
From there, things went a little more smoothly, though Redbelve had to keep Hal in check when he strayed from the topic.
In addition to the things he'd told Sahl weeks ago, Hal pulled together quite a few other sources. He mentioned numerous creatures and cultures which no longer existed. He brought up the Zahiransplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigZahira
by Diane Hutton and the DM
The Common View
Zahira is seen as a dangerous cult that welcomes the Zioth and embraces death. It is led by mysterious druid-like entities known as “True Zahirans.” There is quite a bit of legend surrounding these druids, such as their ability to appear out of nowhere, or the fact that they all look alike.' ability to predict lunar phases. He talked about methods that early peoples had used to try and prevent the Zioth from happening again. He also noted that in many of his sources, crucial parts had been removed, particularly places where the Zioth may have been linked to non-human creatures. He suspected this was due to the anti-magic sentiment over the past few hundred years.
Tracing documents through time, Hal explained how magic, or some other mysterious force, had slowly dwindled since the period known as Midynd, which covered the third through seventh centuries. Almost all mythology was placed historically at the seventh century or earlier. There had, however, been a few, scattered, more recent stories about beings or places of great power. “These stories are not well publicized. If they're taken to be true, one might think their subjects were deliberately trying to remain obscure. The overall trend leads me to postulate that, while magic has become so rare as to be almost unheard of, what remains has focused strongly on individual places, or, perhaps, people. That is, assuming magic ever existed at all.”
“We know the answer to that one,” Redbelve said, glancing at Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden..
Hal paused, as if thinking that over. “Until now, the mythical animals and intelligent creatures have gone the way of magic. For a reason none of my sources explain, however, they've begun to reappear. These volesveinagverggers, and the brininigplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigFey
Having so much diversity in themselves, humans have been known to muddle the stories of other races together, and confuse them until it is easier just to clump them all into the category of “fairy folk.”
The common words used for many in this category, encountered by Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o….”
Redbelve jumped in again. “There have been more and more stories coming out of the Louthrob swamp, and then there's always Fairy Lake, where Sir Meletel disappeared a few years back.”
“All this is very interesting,” the baron said, sitting straighter in his chair. “Dragonsplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDragons
Last updated for turn 216
There is a wide variety of stories about dragons. Some tell of majestic and benevolant beings who are willingly given tribute. Others tell of horrible, mindless creatures who think of nothing but destruction. Dragons in myth range in size from smaller than a blade of grass, to larger than Aerv itself., brininigplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigFey
Having so much diversity in themselves, humans have been known to muddle the stories of other races together, and confuse them until it is easier just to clump them all into the category of “fairy folk.”
The common words used for many in this category,, moon-followers, but even if these aren't just the stories they seem to be, how does all this help us now? I don't know anything about ceremonies to strengthen the moons, or long metal cords holding them in the sky, or magic shields to keep people safe, or anything else you've been talking about. These things just aren't possible. As a child, my tutors were from the University of Duerstadtplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe City of Duerstadt
Duerstadt has been the capital of Rang since the reign of Diure XXXVIII (729-749). It is a major trading port on the Ice Sea (so called for the occasional iceberg that shows up therein). The Ice Sea separates Rang from the Skendu Islands to the north. Although the harbor of Duerstadt isn't threatened by pack ice in the winter, the various Skendui ports are, and the distance between the north coast of, and I was never told about Brundashplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigBrundash
By Arnell and the DM. Last updated 2014-09-17
Before the Battle of the Magics, Brundash was the mysterious home of a world-wide organization of magi. Even then, few could claim to have seen it, and no one would say where or even what it was. Brundash was a term used both for the place, and the organization. or any of the other places you mentioned. Like the priests and priestesses of Andrithaplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigAndrithanism
Based on original ideas from Karl Schinke (Ardith). Symbols for aspects other than the Mother, along with the artwork, were contributed by Myron Wyles (Halaren).
Andrithanism and its variants are the dominant religion in Rang and the surrounding kingdoms. Within the boundaries of, and almost everyone else in world, you say we have nineteen years. What do you propose to do in nineteen years? The priests say the devout will be saved anyway.”
“Baron, if I might reply,” Sahl said. “I'm not saying that we can do anything about the Zioth. It may be that we are helpless and all destined to die in nineteen years' time. However, what I am saying is that we should first try to understand what is happening. We should then look for a way of managing the disaster so as to minimize its effects during the period up to the Zioth, and thirdly, that we should look for a way to survive. None of this is possible without an active effort on our part. If the ancient texts are right, and we have seen the earth split with our very own eyes, and seen the creatures of the Rift, then such earth movements and disasters will become more frequent. If we understand this, then we can prepare for them and manage them much better than last time. Also the people must be prepared in some way. As there are more and more disasters, the people will begin to panic and become desperate. They must be directed in some way. They must see that action is being taken to reduce the damage, and they must be given some belief that they will survive. Perhaps the church of Andrithaplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigAndrithanism
Based on original ideas from Karl Schinke (Ardith). Symbols for aspects other than the Mother, along with the artwork, were contributed by Myron Wyles (Halaren).
Andrithanism and its variants are the dominant religion in Rang and the surrounding kingdoms. Within the boundaries of may help in comforting them. Prayers must be said regularly, a sense of order must be kept. Otherwise there may be rioting and disorder to add to our problems. I point this out to you, because you, as a ruler, are able to lead this effort.
“Finally, we must investigate all the old legends to try to find some clues as to how some people survived the last Zioth. This may well be a hopeless task, but it is better than living without hope. I, for one, will dedicate my life to this.� Sahl paused and let the silence grow in the room.
“I do not think the people problem is so great as you make it out to be. As the priestess here well knows, The Church has been saying for years that prayer and devotion will prevent the Zioth, or at least allow the faithful to pass through unharmed. So other than fighting for greater religious fervor,” the baron said, grinning slightly for the first time that Sahl had seen since he'd heard Hal's full name, “what do you expect me to do about all this? I have a city to rebuild, widespread poverty and hunger to fight, and who knows how many pauperized knights to deal with. The next several years will be busy, with or without the Zioth, and I doubt the king will come to my aid this time.”
“You know your own business best my lord. I only make suggestions. I just wish to warn that these problems will grow worse. When rebuilding, you might rule that buildings should not be more than one story high, should be sturdy, should be built with a gap between each other to avoid fires spreading, should not be built near the lake or river plain, because these might flood when the earth moves. Maybe you might build a stock of supplies to deal with emergencies. For my part I only wish to investigate the Zioth and I would like such aid, permission, and patronage from you as you can provide from time to time.”
Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. added her piece. “I know little of the Zioth than what the Church has already made clear, my lord, but what my friend has suggested about the rebuilding of the city makes good sense. Even without the threat of new earthquakes and other such, crowding buildings together is dangerous, and building too high is also.
“The church of Andrithaplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigAndrithanism
Based on original ideas from Karl Schinke (Ardith). Symbols for aspects other than the Mother, along with the artwork, were contributed by Myron Wyles (Halaren).
Andrithanism and its variants are the dominant religion in Rang and the surrounding kingdoms. Within the boundaries of builds stockpiles of supplies for emergencies; it would seem prudent for the government to do so also. Your Grace, please allow these scholars and adventurers to pursue their investigations, and provide them with what they need to do so. It can do no harm, and has the prospect of great benefit for all.” Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. concluded by bowing to the baron.
“And what do they need? Money, which will be in increasingly short supply.
“I could use all of you on my staff. Persuasive speech, good sense and a level head in an emergency. That is a combination that most who work for me lack. I would offer you jobs in the administration of this city, but I doubt you'll accept.”
The baron was quiet for a long time. Whenever someone started to speak, he waved him or her down. Finally, he stood up from his chair and held himself in a formal pose to which he was quite accustomed.
“Whether the Zioth is a threat is still questionable. However, one must consider all possibilities. Halkakplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe Five Moons
Five moons rise and set in the sky of Aerv, never crossing paths. At the end of the world, they will all wane together, and diminish to nothing for the Zioth.
Quite a lot of mythology centers around the moons. Zahirans' theology revolves around the Moon Children. The Moon Wanderers in the Shirahjat Cohilition migrate with the rising and setting of the moons in ways that only they fully understand., if you are acceptable to Rettald, the Master Archivist, you will be appointed Chief Archivist of Zioth Materials. It will be your responsibility to collect information regarding the Zioth, and to inform Rettald when any important patterns develop, or when you find information applicable to today. You will be allotted a small discretionary fund in case you feel it necessary to leave the city for your research.” Hal was frozen in shock, reams of paper still clutched to his chest.
“As for the rest, I personally owe my life to two of you. Three,” he corrected himself, nodding to Kayplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of. “And countless citizens of Huerten would be dead now if it weren't for each one of you.” He excluded Redbelve with his glance, but the knight didn't seem concerned. He did, after all, have very little to do with this. “I've heard quite a few stories over the course of the day, and you are rapidly becoming heroes in this city.”
He sat down again, dipped a quill in ink, and wrote quickly and in a trained hand on a sheet of parchment. “Priestess Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden., I can't order the high priests to let you go, but this may be something in your favor.” He finished the note, sealed it and handed it to Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden.. “You may consider taking the time to teach some of the priests how to do… what you do… before leaving. Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o… El Musafir, Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. Sulanguan –” he mispronounced Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions.'s last name, but now was not the time to correct him – “Kay Wanderwitplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of and Priestess Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden., if your temple permits: You will not be hindered in your investigations by this government. I will have the Second Clerk draft documents which put you in the payroll of the city, but you won't be kept here. These documents give me the right to do _this_ without raising any questions.” He wrote another note, sealed it and handed it to Sahl. “Take this to the treasury. Consider it a reward for saving my life, or an advance payment for services you will render while devoting your life to the Zioth, whichever feels better to you. Now if you'll excuse me, my herald is trying to tell me that the crowd outside my office is becoming large enough to strain the castle walls.”
“Thank you, your Grace,” Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. murmured without further comment. Kayplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of merely curtsied and bowed her head.
“Thank you, my lord”, said Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o…, bowing deeply, with eyes shining. “Your judgment is wise and far sighted. With your permission I will take this beast for Archivist Halkakplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe Five Moons
Five moons rise and set in the sky of Aerv, never crossing paths. At the end of the world, they will all wane together, and diminish to nothing for the Zioth.
Quite a lot of mythology centers around the moons. Zahirans' theology revolves around the Moon Children. The Moon Wanderers in the Shirahjat Cohilition migrate with the rising and setting of the moons in ways that only they fully understand. to investigate. Peace be upon you.” Sahl bent over to replace the cover on the cage.
“I beg your pardon?” the baron asked. Sahl looked up, but he was speaking to Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions..
The Terradian repeated what he'd said. “Sh'kurdaruplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe Battle of the Rift
Sh'kurdaru
In turn 88, a rift opened up in the earth near Huerten City. Creatures were found inside, which could eat a man alive before he even knew what was happening.
The creatures move like lizards, and are extremely sensitive to bright light. Sh'kurdaru think only of food. They sneak up on their prey, and emit an anesthetizing poison through their skin and mouth, numbing the skin and muscle of their prey, and eat them alive before their prey are even aware of the attack..” This only got him more blank looks, so he gestured to the cage and clarified, “I name them sh'kurdaruplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe Battle of the Rift
Sh'kurdaru
In turn 88, a rift opened up in the earth near Huerten City. Creatures were found inside, which could eat a man alive before he even knew what was happening.
The creatures move like lizards, and are extremely sensitive to bright light. Sh'kurdaru think only of food. They sneak up on their prey, and emit an anesthetizing poison through their skin and mouth, numbing the skin and muscle of their prey, and eat them alive before their prey are even aware of the attack.. The beasts.” “Oh.” The baron nodded. “Very well then.” Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o… squeezed Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions.'s shoulder. “Come on. Let us take no more of the baron's time.” He then left the room with the others, Redbelve and Sahlmanplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigSahlman El Musafir
Sahlman's hair is blue-black and graying. His skin is dark and weathered. A huge handle-bar mustache sweeps down to cover much of his lower face, and Sahl is always careful to keep it properly groomed. He is generally very particular about his clothing, equipment and appearance. Sahlman wears the desert robes of his homeland, with headgear that blocks out the sun and hangs over his neck. He wears light trousers and high hard boots, and when his robes are wet, the hard links o… lifting the cage out of the room, and Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. and Kayplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of carrying Hal's heavy chest.
“Well that went well,” Redbelve said when they'd pushed through the much larger and more agitated crowd. “I've never known the baron to be so… nice. I guess having your main source of income almost kill you can do that. Then again, I might have spoken too soon. Treasury's this way.”
Before they reached it, a pair of knights stopped them. “The baron would like that cage taken to a safer place,” one of them said. “Word will be left with the master Archivist so you'll know where to find it,” he added to Halkakplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe Five Moons
Five moons rise and set in the sky of Aerv, never crossing paths. At the end of the world, they will all wane together, and diminish to nothing for the Zioth.
Quite a lot of mythology centers around the moons. Zahirans' theology revolves around the Moon Children. The Moon Wanderers in the Shirahjat Cohilition migrate with the rising and setting of the moons in ways that only they fully understand.. Before handing over the beast, Sahl insisted on getting a signed receipt from the guard. This was a natural trade practice taught to him by his merchant father. It took some time to find the paper to sign, and the knights were both irritable by the end, but Sahl had his receipt. “Remember,” Sahl said when they were taking it away, “it's a powerful digger. I'd keep checking on it to see its not broken out. I suggest feeding it a live chicken every day, and give it water regularly. Don't touch the skin. It burns, and the bite has something in it which stops the wound hurting so you can bleed to death before you feel a thing.”
With the knights gone, Redbelve continue to lead the way.
The guard at the treasury door looked surprised when he read the note. “Well you must be on the baron's good side,” he said. “I'll have to find the treasurer for this. Think you can handle things?” he asked the other guard, but didn't wait for an answer.
While he was away, Hal seemed to finally recover from the shock of what had happened. “I… I have to be going. I have to see the Master Archivist… I have so much to tell him.”
“I'm sure he does,” Redbelve said, smirking at Sahl. “Rettald's going to get a run for his money. Hal, I'll help you carry your junk, and defend the Master Archivist. Sahl, let me know how it turns out, will you? I want to know just how generous the baron _is_ after his run-in with the giant oak.”
The two went off, weighed down by chest, bags and loose papers. It was twenty minutes later before the guard finally returned, a little winded. “The baronial treasurer is busy, but everything's taken care of.” At the confused expressions in front of him, he rolled his eyes. “Don't tell me you don't know what this says…. Well, there's this to start.” He handed a bag over to Sahl. “Yeah it's heavy. That's an even thousand there, in trade money.” Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden. and Kayplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigKay Wanderwit
Kay is an attractive, eighteen year old girl. She has dark brown hair, tanned skin and hazel eyes. The bow she carries is of a very fine quality. Kay wears brown calfskin breeches, and a green wool vest. When traveling, she wears brown deerskin breeches and a red linen vest. Her old cloak is black, and made of fine but worn wool. She has become a close friend of knew the term, and Sahl could guess, but Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. hadn't been speaking Rouchplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigLanguage
Rouch
Rouch is the vernacular, or common tongue, spoken throughout Rang. Because of Rang's influence, it's also a trade language in the surrounding kingdoms.
Sarnam
Sarnam is the “old tongue,” spoken by the priests of Andritha. Most of the nobly-born are familiar with the language. long enough, and the guard noticed. “Trade money. Ten-attleplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigRang Currency
The Aglar
Rang's economy is based on barter and silver, the later dominating commercial activity in towns and cities. The silver Aglar (ă'glǒr) has been minted since the early days of Rang, primarily out of the capitol, Duerstadt. There are also regional mints in most of the duchies, bearing unique mint marks, and producing, collectively, about four fifths as much as is produced by coins. They're easier to load onto carts, harder to lose.” Daluarplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigDaluar Sulanguan
Daluar is a wiry, coal-skinned Terradian in the gray-and-blue uniform of a Calipperi soldier. He keeps both his face and head clean-shaven, and his leather armor in good condition; he has even tried to shape the rough patches on the collar, vambraces, and headband into regular contours. A rapier frogged at his hip, a quiver and longbow on his back, and a couple of pouches on his belt comprise most of his possessions. actually owned a couple of the coins, but he hadn't known their name. He was slowly learning. “And then there's this.” He handed a note to Sahl, with the seal of the treasurer on it. “That's right. You've all been given access to the Baronial Armorer. The smithy is on the far side of the castle, away from the lake, about two hundred yards down. Show him this note, and he'll give you any surplus at a third the prices other smiths would charge for stuff that good.”
Sahl asked for the baron's note, and read it himself, while the guard continued. “The note's also good at the stables and the stocks, but they can charge anything. Who knows, at this rate you might be landed knights before long. Andrithaplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigAndrithanism
Based on original ideas from Karl Schinke (Ardith). Symbols for aspects other than the Mother, along with the artwork, were contributed by Myron Wyles (Halaren).
Andrithanism and its variants are the dominant religion in Rang and the surrounding kingdoms. Within the boundaries of knows there's plenty of land.”
The other guard smacked him in the arm. “My cousins were crushed under their house, and my son's barely alive.”
That changed the mood of the first guard. “Sorry. Bad taste. Who was next?” There were two more people behind the group, who they hadn't noticed before. Each held a sealed note from someone or other.
The 1000at and the note for the armorer is for the whole party, but I'll put them on Sahl's character sheet until the Zioth Instituteplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigThe Zioth Institute
After he was rewarded by the baron, Sahlman decided to set up an institute to study the Zioth. This started in turn 92 and turn 93.
Locations to choose from
These were the places Sahl investigated for the Institute. Sahlman chose #4.
* Farmland as far from the rift as possible. This will likely be small, expensive, and require a lot of repair. It's certainly doable, and might pay in the end. Farmhouses will generally be from one to four miles from town, the farther ones… is taken care of.
Sahl: -25at for lock, cage, cloth, chicken, etc.
Sahl: +1000at in trade money (belongs to party), note from baron
Ardithplugin-autotooltip__default plugin-autotooltip_bigArdith
Ardith's long hair is tied in a bun with cords dyed with berry juice, two each of red, blue and black. She wears an unbleached linen shift and bodice, a deerskin jerkin, and low brown boots. Ardith always wears the Sign of Andritha on a chain around her neck. The Sign is a three inch circle of copper with a large onyx in the center, obviously quite heavy, but Ardith wears it with the ease of one long accustomed to the burden.: Note from baron to temple.