4 Nuzyael 720

Rising together, Algared and Hovik walk amongst the wounded on the various stretchers stopping besides the sailor with a the thighwound (P1). Algared removes items that may encumber him, and then goes to fetch a bowl and water. Under Hoviks guidance the bandages are removes from the thigh, and the wound is carefully washed by Algared. Pouring fresh water into the bowl Algared again bathes the wound as he begins to sing asong about the Elkyri Bronwyn (casts Azure hand).

Kugald walks over to Malstaar. "Hovik has done a good job of patching you and your men up." He pulls out a large, tasty looking sausage, small wheel of cheese and some bread from his bag. "He tells me that you and your men haven't eaten for days." Kugald slices off a big chunk of sausage and bites into it. "A battle makes a man hungry, doesn't it? So, what were you and your men doing this far north anyway?"

The weaponcrafter is very aware how hungry Malstaar and his men are. If Malstaar is forthcoming with information, food will be shared with all. Until then, nothing.

OOC: If a little mild coercion isn't successful, Kugald will get direct...much more direct.

TTYL

- Kerry

As Alagared gently washes the wound with cold water his singing and body movements cause several of the crew to notice his unusual actions in treating a leg wound. His body moves in strange patterns,while his arms gyrate in a strange yet slighty hypnotic motion. The sailor looks at Algared strangely as he completes his task. A minute or two later and the sailor notes that the pain in his leg is unchanged. The crew go about their duties but Algared seems to draw strange looks from the crew now.

Malstaar eyes off the sausgae and with a lick of his lips says "We were lost, we were out searching for Yarili in the mountains but became lost and ended up wandering into you" his eyes wander quickly to the sausage then says "Curse Lynraal for leading us into you!"

Kugald questions Malstaar for some time but the answers seem to be the same, the enemy warriors were out in the mountains looking for Yarili. Early last year a group of Ibanvaal warriors went missing and a search later revealed that they had encountered some Yarili tribesman and during the battle the heavily outnumbered warriors fell to the tribesman, now after almost a year, nearly a hundred Yarili have been killed or caught.

Malstaar also claims that he and his party never saw a Yarili...

Jurri will offer to help the crew if he can, or will spend his time singing, playing, or telling stories (whatever seems to be the best balance of keeping folks' spirits high while not interfering with their work).

Hovik, after taking care of his more serious patients, comes over to Algared. He carefully examines his work, then exclaims loudly, "Well done! You have prepared the wound extremely well. Now let me show you what to do next . . . "

Thorin, cocks his head at something that Malastaar said.

He moves to the gunwale of the ship, gazing towards the mist enshrouded mountains to the East.
He pretends that he can see this valuable pass.

Shortly he returns, and motions Kugald, Algared and the others to hear him.

Kugald, finishes his sausage, sharing some with the starving Yarili hunters.
Thorin wistfully wishes his rations were handy.

"Kugald, Algared, Neirin, Hovik, Jurri, Madren....."

"Something that Malastaar said has pricked my memory. Malastaar said they were hunting Yarili, but did not find any signs of them. Remember earlier this winter, the patrols that went missing? Surely you remember Kavi? His wife still believes he wanders lost in the snow."

"I wonder if something is amiss, or someone or some thing has control of the pass...."

"Where are the missing patrols? Where are the Yarili?"

"I believe we should petition the Valkahar to investigate the mountains and the pass. What if there is a hidden danger, and the Daas marches his troops into it?"

Hovik wrote:Hovik, after taking care of his more serious patients, comes over to Algared. He carefully examines his work, then exclaims loudly, "Well done! You have prepared the wound extremely well. Now let me show you what to do next . . . "

Catching the queer looks some of the crew give him, he determines that even merely using class three incantations still draws to much attention to ones self and determines that he will work harder in future to make little visible show of his efforts. As Hovik returns, Algared rubs his eyes, he had been running through the steps of the incantation in his mind trying to determine where he got it wrong when Hovik's praise broke into his thoughts. As Hovik shows him what would be the next step in treating the wound Algared gives silent thanks Sarajin for the distraction.

Thorin Ulfhednar wrote:
"Kugald, Algared, Neirin, Hovik, Jurri, Madren....."

"Something that Malastaar said has pricked my memory. Malastaar said they were hunting Yarili, but did not find any signs of them. Remember earlier this winter, the patrols that went missing? Surely you remember Kavi? His wife still believes he wanders lost in the snow."

"I wonder if something is amiss, or someone or some thing has control of the pass...."

"Where are the missing patrols? Where are the Yarili?"

"I believe we should petition the Storzar to investigate the mountains and the pass. What if there is a hidden danger, and the Daas marches his troops into it?"

As Thorin calls the group over Algared reaches into his pack and pulls out his fishing line and hook, before joining the other's at the Gunwhale, he looks over towards the land trying to guage the ships motion and position [piloting skill]. If time permits some fresh fish may be a nice additiopn to the evening meal should they need to camp another night, he glances at Sheld and decides it may be better to check with the captain as he doesn't want to disrupt the crew's ability to sail the ship.

He listens to Thorin nodding, and remains quiet but wondering why Thorin wants to return to Froyaheim when they are half way back, and were seen to be yelled from the Storzars' great hall.

GM wrote:
Malstaar eyes off the sausgae and with a lick of his lips says "We were lost, we were out searching for Yarili in the mountains but became lost and ended up wandering into you" his eyes wander quickly to the sausage then says "Curse Lynraal for leading us into you!"

Kugald questions Malstaar for some time but the answers seem to be the same, the enemy warriors were out in the mountains looking for Yarili. Early last year a group of Ibanvaal warriors went missing and a search later revealed that they had encountered some Yarili tribesman and during the battle the heavily outnumbered warriors fell to the tribesman, now after almost a year, nearly a hundred Yarili have been killed or caught.

Malstaar also claims that he and his party never saw a Yarili...

Kugald debates in his mind whether or not to use physical torture. After talking with Malstaar for a while, he decides that it is probably not worth it. The man seems to have his story pretty fixed. When he decides he has got all he is going to get out of the wounded warrior, he shares some of his food with the ravenous man. He indicates to the other members of the group to share food with the captured Ibanvaalese.

"We will be returning home to Ygesdram. There, you will meet the Daas. I hope you have not lied to me...for your sake. If asked, I have no problem with making you scream in pain, terror and to wish for death. Sarajin willing, we won't have to go there."

Once everyone is stabilized and Hovik gives his OK, Kugald helps load them on the ship. "So, Captain, can we cast off? I think we should get these prisoners and word to the Daas as soon as possible."

TTYL

- Kerry

Hovik responds enthusiastically, even though he's dead tired. "I think you are on to something, Thorin! But I have a question for Neirin. Could the Yarili have summoned some kind of monster to protect themselves from the Ibanvaalers? It seems this started after the Ibanvaalers and Yarili first came into conflict."

Listening to Thorin, Kugald and Thorin's thoughts, Algared then says, "While it is possible Malstaar speaks truely I'm not sure I believe the story. If this patrol was only searching for the Yarili then surely the others in the patrol would at least know they were searching for the tribesmen. Hovik, you saw the skill Neirin has in tracking, I imagine the Yarili tribes men would be able to avoid the soldiers. My questions is where would the Yarili retreat into the mountains, would the pass enable them to seemingly disappear? Even if Malstaar is using some basis of truth in his story, regarding the Yarili it doesn't means they weren't or aren't searching for the pass anyway. Why were they searching the hills initially to cause conflict with the tribesmen.

And yet, maybe there is something in the hills that forced the Yarili into contact with the The Ibanvaal forces and also caused the wolves to decend to the plains as winter drew near." Sighing, Algared then says "but what would I know it seems my skills do naught but draw queer stares and am a weak link in a sheild wall." Algared turns and his shoulders sag just a little as fatigue from casting and his sense his sense of failure weigh heavily upon him. He approaches Sheld and says.

"Captain, I was wondering if you feel we will return to before nightfall or need another nights camp? If we need to camp another night I could attempt to catch some fish, or I could assist your crew if that will be more more beneifcial."

Hovik ponders with the rest of the group. "Malstaar has not impressed me with his intelligence. I suspect he kept the mission a secret because he's an egotistical bastard that enjoys the power that holding a secret can give. It's no wonder they failed so badly - let that be a lesson in leadership and teamwork for us all to benefit from."

"I believe he really was looking for Yarili, and nothing else. I don't think he a good enough liar to make that up. His would have embellished the story with tales of his own success. And fortunately, his story is more plausible than what I had feared could be true."

"If we believe the story, what does that mean for the Daas? Could the Yarili be enlisted as allies? Is there some new danger threatening the war plan?"

With the distance between your camp and Ygesdram being eaten up quickly by the 'waverider' Sheld orders some sail removed. His crew quickly leap into action and set the sail for 1/2 setting. Your warband help out by securing lines when you can.

With the sun now past the high point the day is now starting to wan. The boat continues to plow through the water eating up league after league and by early afternoon the 'waverider' has made landfall at Ygesdram. You first sight the dock and shipyard along the river bank but as you near more and more sights of home greet your eyes. The most striking change over your home is the small encampment that now exsists on the meadow near the market.

There are tents now adorning this green pasture. It looks as if the army is starting to muster. Looking at the camp you estimate that there must be about 60-80 warriors camped there now.

With the hand of a masters master Sheld guides the 'waverider' alongside the dock and the crew quickly set about securing the boat. As the boat is tied up a crowd has begun to gather along the dock at your arrival.

With the boat secure, Sheld begins to see that his crew get the needed attention they deserve. He begins to bark orders to the longshoreman and those standing around organising men to ferry his wounded sailors to the healers.

Sheld turns to Kugald and says "I will see to my crew for now, can you take care of them" as he casually flicks his hand in the direction of the prisoners. "I am not sure if I thanked you for your help during the battle " holding out his hand to each of the warband he shakes your hand in gratitude for your efforts "thank you" he says to each of you and then before turning off to see his wounded are taken care of says to all of you "May the Grey Slayer keep you safe until your place in Talaagaard is ready for you!"

Sheld then one again gets tied up with the organisation of his crew and his boat....

It is now early afternoon, the day is cool and the wind still blows gently from the north east, the clouds have started to gather but there is still plenty of blue sky above and you are on the docks at Ygesdram with the Ibanvaal prisoners, who are now starting to draw more than their fare share of attention.

As the Waverider glides into port the common Algared joins his compnions once more as they endeavour to stay out of the way of the crew docking the vessel. As Sheld thanks each of the band for their help Algared still wonders what he really contributed. He is torn feeling like the odd man in the band a liabilty, He takes Sheld's hands in his and says quietly, "I wish I could have done more". Yet, Algared is also happy since for once a he has been involved in a successful mission.

He also wonders what the spies will make of their Ibanvaal prisoners and the message they bring back but as he looks out upon the sea of tents Algared smiles realising that any spies have already reported the Daas has mustered or is mustering his forces. Gathering his belongings he disembarks with Kugald and the others, following the wounded which bring various concerned looks from those near by. As the party and their prisoners march towards the Thran where they will deliver their messages and report to the Daas, Algared walks quielty next to Kugald and keeps an eye on their prisoners lest they try something foolish.

(ooc I expect that at some point the prisoners will be escorted away by huscarls, depending upon the cultural norms in this situation)

Before landing, Hovik emphatically instructs all the wounded men - no matter how minor the wound - to present themselves for examination at the end of the day. He peppers his admonitions with mentions of flesh-eating worms and limbs rotting off.

To Algared and Neirin, he suggest this - the presence of the prisoners might spook any Ibanvaaler spies in Ygesdram. Keep your eyes open for anyone acting strangely, especially anyone that either tries to contact the prisoners, or makes special efforts to avoid them.

There are three men with belly and chest wounds that must only be moved on a stretcher. Hovik's first priority will be their proper care. However, once they are safely moved he will examine them one more time and then hand them over to Hervold Jela, confident that they are in good hands.

And having no further responsibilities, Hovik finds a place to sit and rest and watch the comings and goings from the Daas' hall. He uses the time to sharpen his scalpel and his knife.

As the warband stand around the docks Ulauf Nildrom approaches and while not much of a shipwright, he is a skilled archer and a fine warrior. He eyes of the boat for damage and noting that there is nothing of note except for some general wear and tear looks disappointed until he catches sight of your booty "What have you brought back for us?" Then looking towards the ship he adds "It appears it has come at some price!"

"Best get them to the Jarl before the families of the wounded see these curs and rip them limb from limb" he says before joining in with the warband as they lead the prisoners towards the thran.

Jurri will accompany the prisoners if they are being marched to the Daas. He will be ready to tell the tale of their mission (Oratory, with appropriate dramatic style) unless Kugald or another wishes to do so.

Thorin, glad to be back home, nontheless, follows Kugald directions and guards the prisoners, and helps the wounded off of the boat.

With help form others of the small war band, the prisoners hands are tied behind their backs and halter ropes are placed around their necks linking them together. Ulauf looks disappointed initially, as he watches the unloading from the wharf, Algared imagines he hoped the vessel would need his skill as a shipwright. Algared returns Ulauf’s greeting noting that his face brightens when he sees the booty and prisoners until he sees the wounded and notes the missing crewmen.

GM wrote: "Best get them to the Jarl before the families of the wounded see these curs and rip them limb from limb"

“Aye Ulauf, we will be headed to the thran directly, I’m sure The Daas will be interested in these curs” Algared says before turning to the prisoners, "regardless of what your fate is one thing is certain, the families of the dead or wounded will tear you limb from limb, so keep you eyes down, and do as you are told.”

[ooc Would the captured equipment normally be sent be sent up to the Daas also? if so we will move when it is ready, my assumption at present is that it would be and that porters or sailors would be helping to carry the the booty, please correct me if I am wrong.]

Once all is ready, the prisoners are marched towards the thran where their final fate awaits them at Cunate’s judgement. Algared like Hovik keeps an eye on the prisoners

GM wrote:
Sheld turns to Kugald and says "I will see to my crew for now, can you take care of them" as he casually flicks his hand in the direction of the prisoners. "I am not sure if I thanked you for your help during the battle " holding out his hand to each of the warband he shakes your hand in gratitude for your efforts "thank you" he says to each of you and then before turning off to see his wounded are taken care of says to all of you "May the Grey Slayer keep you safe until your place in Talaagaard is ready for you!"

Sheld then one again gets tied up with the organisation of his crew and his boat....

It is now early afternoon, the day is cool and the wind still blows gently from the north east, the clouds have started to gather but there is still plenty of blue sky above and you are on the docks at Ygesdram with the Ibanvaal prisoners, who are now starting to draw more than their fare share of attention.

As the warband stand around the docks Ulauf Nildrom approaches and while not much of a shipwright, he is a skilled archer and a fine warrior. He eyes of the boat for damage and noting that there is nothing of note except for some general wear and tear looks disappointed until he catches sight of your booty "What have you brought back for us?" Then looking towards the ship he adds "It appears it has come at some price!"

"Best get them to the Jarl before the families of the wounded see these curs and rip them limb from limb" he says before joining in with the warband as they lead the prisoners towards the thran.

OOC: I am driving back from HarnCon (I am in a hotel in Dayton, Ohio). Rob (Jurri) and I talked about lots of things, but strangely not about our game!

Kugald takes Sheld’s hand gladly. “You and your met fought well. I was proud to fight at your side. With your permission, I will take the booty along with the prisoners to see the Daas. I will ensure that you and your crew, especially the dead, receive their fair share.”

“We have brought news from Froyaheim, Ibanvaalese prisoners for interrogation and some booty. There was a cost, but the skirmish went well and the cost was less than it might have been.”
Kugald helps Algared and the others secure the prisoners. He puts on his half-helm and picks up his spear and shield. He nods in agreement to Algared’s warning to the Ibanvaalese.
The warband and their prisoners make their way up to the great hall. Several times he has to intervene to prevent friends and family from attacking the prisoners. He is as gentle as possible, reassuring them that the Daas will decide their fate. He does nothing to stop the spitting and hoots of derision.
When they reach the hall, Kugald removes his helmet and leaves it, along with his spear and shield with the guards. He requests permission to enter. When permission is granted, they march in the prisoners and throw them to their knees in front of the Daas.
“My Jarl, we return. Your message is delivered. We bear letters from your sister and brothers. During our return, we were attacked by these Ibanvaalese curs while we camped. Captain Sheld’s men fought bravely, as did the members of our band. Several were slain, but we were victorious. We bring these war thralls,” he gestures to the small collection of arms and armour, “and some booty to show to you.”
He bows deeply to the Jarl and awaits his questions.
TTYL
- Kerry Mould

The Daas is seated at his place in the greathall there are other members of the thrangaard present when you enter.

Cunate rises to his feet as the prisoners are brought before him. "Tell me of what happened, my cousin?" Cunate asks Kugald. As Cunate listens to his cousin retell the story of the battle, Cunate returns to his seat. When the story is told the Daas looks upon each of the prisoners and says "I have not yet decided what to do with you, I think I will let you fester for awhile I shall talk to Sheld first and find out who of his crew are unfit to sail and who of his crew have gone to Talaagaard before I decide what to do with you."

Looking towards one of his huscarls with a wave of his hand he order the prisoners removed from his greathall "Get them out of here, this hall is for not for the likes of these men!"

The prisoners are lead out...

There is a noticable change in the Daas with the prisoners gone. His shoulders relax a little and the demenour on his face becomes more friendly. With a slight grimace on his face he says "and what did the Storzar say to our message" after hearing the answer the Daas smiles and says "The Storzar always had a elegant way with words."

Cunate pauses for a moment before continuing "I am sorry for the deception surrounding you with this task. I feared there may be spies or sympathisers within my thranaal. I was right the night before you were to leave I had men scour the countryside for anyone leaving. They found Hershold Gerherbt leaving the thranaal. He only needed a little convincing before he told us his Valhakar had given him a message to pass on to the Dagen in Frouby." there is a hint of sadness in his voice.

"I am impressed with each of you, you have carried the message to the Storzar under difficult circumstances. As you can see, we prepare for war. We march on Froyby soon, I have called the muster to gather here by the 15th day of this month."

The Daas pauses for a moment before adding "I will see the families of the dead looked after" then pointing towards the booty "take what you want, you have earned as much, maybe more" he finishes with a smile.

"Now go and greet your families on your return home! Be back here before sunset, I have something else to ask of each of you but more importantly tonight we feast our first victory and our heroes!!!" the Daas says before you are dismissed

Algared stands back letting letting his companions select armour, weapons or equipment for themselves first. He hopes to be able to select a quit gambeson and cowl or the smaller 3/4 helm if it neither fits Kugald or Thorin, which he recomends to them. He also selcts a new Shield to replace his which was lost in the battle. Algared considers taking one of the broadswords or hand-axe as a secondary melee weapon, and having his cousin help train him. Knowing the broadsword is a status symbol Algared hopes he'll be able to claim one, if only to earn some favour in his father eyes. Speaking to Kugald, he says,

"Cousin, I was thinking a secod melee weapon would be worth while, which would you suggest and will you spar with me when we have time to help me so I may better assist."

Hovik pays no attention to the spoils, and when in the hall attempts to be as inconspicuous as possible. He listens to the Daas, but his eyes are on all the people. He says to himself, "If I wanted one spy in Ygesdram, I would want another." To the booty he pays absolutely no attention. Instead he seeks to leave to check on the wounded sailors.

Thorin will claim a 3/4 helmet if one fits.

He smiles, pleased that Cunate is pleased.

"Heroes? Us?! Hardly...we merely fought our way through an ambush."

"Kugald, we did nothing Heroic, well except for Hovik, who ignored his own life to save the sailors."

Thorin Ulfhednar wrote:Thorin will claim a 3/4 helmet if one fits.

He smiles, pleased that Cunate is pleased.

"Heroes? Us?! Hardly...we merely fought our way through an ambush."

"Kugald, we did nothing Heroic, well except for Hovik, who ignored his own life to save the sailors."

Algared pauses in his request to Kugald, "True, Thorin. It is true heroism to put another before your self." He then says to Kugald a little quieter, "such should be rewarded, though my father we call me a wasteral I'll gladly surrender any or all my share if it brings about a right reward for him."