Editing Volume Two: The Adask War Wizard (section)

====<big>Adledross: Summoning Dufiro and Preparations</big>====


*The low hill north of the farm encampment had been a hotbed of activity for several days. Troops cleared the very top for a circle of 50 yards. It was arduously flattened and scrapped till the top was a smooth dirt plain. Rocks were separated from soil and piled at the edge of the cleared space.  The troopers know something big was happening.  Sub-commander Fortunadas had overseen much of the work while walking the space and moving tiny rocks to make a central circle 30 yards in diameter.  Larger stones were stacked and arranged into flat tables just outside the rock ring. The tops smoothed and leveled. Fort lets a marble roll to help level the space till he has 5 rock tables level enough that a marble won't roll.  Fort's apprentices, especially the masons, are familiar with summoning rituals. They lay out material components in preparation for the upcoming rituals.  When troopers ask whats going on sub-commanders can only shrug their shoulders.  
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer arrives at the hilltop with his 6 Apprentices and Bob with him just prior to midday and looks over the work that has been done. He remains on the outer edge of the hill, so as to not disturb anything. He instructs his apprentices to remain here and remain silent and observe unless asked to assist.
"Are you ready for me, Fort?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Yes. now, let me be clear. you are the Commander of the forces here, and I'm not arguing that. But until we depart this camp for the west this hill is my kingdom and I must have absolute dictatorial plans. I won't say please and I won't say thank you"
The masons are gathered, and Tesa stands far to the outside. She looks nervous and wary.
"Tesa, I'm sorry but it would be best if you watched the rise to the top. Oversee the forces keeping the troops from coming up and investigating. I'll look over your men."
Tesa nod in relief and heads down hill.
"As I was saying, the Dufiro will see everything done here the moment I begin reading his name. Frankly I suspect we are being watched now. You are an experienced sorcerer and necromancer so you understand the need for detail. You have not run a Dufiro ritual yet so your dealings with them have been what they call 'Unrestrained'. The one you hired to bodyguard you was not bound. He was hired. His honor bound him. His service benefited him. What we do here is summon a belligerent Masoja Dufiro of Knowledge. He will not be cooperative. Now Do you agree to obey instantly any mere whim I suggest once we being the preparation?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"You are the Master and I am the Apprentice, on this hilltop. I will do what you say without question or hesitation."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He calls the masons up, as well as the 6 Amberites in training as well.
"Gentlemen. You know something has been in preparation. Here it is. You masons were dealing with a belligerent creature you though was giving you powers and in a way it did. that it was preparing your for the slaughter is irrelevant now. It was called Uzgata, and he is of a race called the Dufirosim. These are not devils. These are not demons. These are not Angels. These are creatures of a section of shadowlands where power is directable by their life forces. They can be called upon by practitioners such as me, my apprentice, and even you soon enough, to bargain for powers and experiences. You had one trading powers with you for many generations. Do not mistake his help as for your benefit alone. He preyed on your gullibility, and that of your forefathers,, to an end you could not comprehend. In convincing you to try and summon me he failed to know where I was and what I was doing and it brought all of you here. Dead of course, but I fixed that. Now you are learning proper magic and learning proper trade-craft for dealing with the Dufiro. Each of you will stand as Apprentice as time goes on. Today though, Commander Relmopator will act as my apprentice. You are all familiar with ritual so that helps. 6 of you will hold candles on the outer rim. 6 of you will hold candles on the edge of the cleared space. Realmer and I will be inside the circle. "
Fort walks around and leads each man to his place. He puts Realmer next to one of the stone tables outside the ring.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Now, you men. If any of you drops your candle, I will be wroth. If any of you speak, I will be wroth. If any of you move unbidden by me or my apprentice, well, you may be eaten. That would be unfortunate here since you would be eaten then wake up tomorrow out East and remember being eaten. I have been eaten. You don't want that experience."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"This is how it will go. We will do a preparatory ritual now. Realmer and I will lay the powders and stones and draw the initial symbols. Then I will invoke a familiar companion spirit of mine. She will arrive to prove the outer and inner barriers are secure. She will dance for us a bit and bring a few presents but then leave. Then Realmer and I will finish the symbols for the major summoning at Dusk. We will be summoning Straxxrix, a willing ally of Uzgata. This Masoja Dufiro of Knowledge has a life path as follows. He was born: Fire Elemental. Was translated to a Change Elemental. He rose to be a Spirit of Combat, then Rust, then Paper, and lastly a Spirit of Change. He was elevated to the Avasa of Fire, then Shifter, and finally he was accepted as a Masoja Dufiro of Knowledge. This is a combative creature and he will not be happy to be summoned. But I need things of him and will have to give him things to get what I need. To not be shocked. I will give you a drink before we start tonight that will calm you but whatever you do remain calm. You have spent your lives enacting rituals, This one will be more then you ever saw before. The troops around us will be unable to avoid seeing what we do. they will be told soon. Now, rest for a few minute while Realmer and I confer"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort and Realmer step aside.
Fort asks, "Think that scared them enough?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Most of them, yes. But my four Masons have had Calming Compellings in place for days so they may hold up a bit better... perhaps even without the 'drink'. I am a little concerned about Vatra botching things up in some way... but that will have to be dealt with if and when it happens."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Remove the compellings. Its bad enough we will have Vatra in attendance. We can't have a magical structure in place that might fray, no offence meant. You can replace the Compellings tomorrow."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"That's actually a lot of Compellings for all four of them. All have Calm Focused Learning Compellings, Loyalty Compellings and Personal Memory Dulling Compellings.... but I intended to drop them all at some point anyway... guess today is the day. Should I do it now?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Well, they might hold and if you think so, fine. I trust you. They are not integral to the ritual. But if one unravels at a bad moment it could be spectacular for us and horrendously unpleasant for them. So its your call.”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"But you know, those Freemasons have been mucking with forces beyond their ken for generations in a history of colossal arrogance and ignorance. Maybe they need to see one of their friends eaten by a pissed off Fire Avasa"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Now that I think of it, I may feed one or two of them to Straxxrix as a snack during negotiations. They will wake up tomorrow with a new lease on life"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort chuckles at Realmer's gaze.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Fort, you're being needlessly cruel, in my opinion. I don't think any need to die... they have all done it once already. Take it from a guy who has died more than once; the first is always the most traumatic and life changing. I will release them all. I planned to anyway. Best not to chance things during a touchy ritual with a pissy Dufiro."
Realmer turns and raises his voice. "My Masonic Apprentices, you are about to feel a change in yourself, do not freak out... do not move or speak. I am about to release the Compellings I put upon you and promised I would release you from one day. Today is that day."
Realmer carefully works his way to each and makes physical then Psychic contact then release the Compelling on each. Then he returns to Fort and watches their expressions.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Cruelty is in the eyes of the eaten. One man's cruelty is another's pragmatism. Ask Tesa how she feels about needless cruelty. This Dufiro is a pisser. He was a Rust Spirit so he either did something that got him sentenced to a term as a Ruster, or, what is more likely in my evaluation, is that he chose to take on Rust in pursuance of future goals as evidenced by Spirit of Change and Avasa of Shifter. His tome says he is a first time Masoja and he chose knowledge, prepared for it by taking Spirit of Rust, Paper & change, Avasa of Knowledge. he wants future councils to think him a formidable thinker-an intellectual. His tome says he bargains for knowledge of change, wars & history. That makes me think his goals are Shifter or death. Probably passing through Fire and change. Now Fire is easy. I doubt the fire Council would blink on offering him that. Offering to write a Masoja tome of fire would kill two birds with the same hand grenade; Fire dragon hide, Elven vellum, ranyhyn tail.. He might go for that. Vatra has been here and was unwillingly bound, he probably won't make Arnold say anything."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"The next thing is War. The tome says he bargains for knowledge of war but he wasn't a combat Spirit or Avasa. That means he's an armchair general. Does he want Masoja of warfare? Not likely without a lower combat pedigree. So why study war? That implies Death Masoja. Now, we summon him in the training realm of the great Benedict. He might be interested in Benedict related stories or incidents. Dufiro are collectors. Embarrassingly so sometimes. An old blade of Benedict's? Hell, and old blade of any of the Princes of Amber might be attractive. an Introduction perhaps. Those are things to be delivered after Adledross but easy enough to bargain for in good faith. Honoring bargains is important but its all in the detail. We can bargain what we don't have but making the bargain, we must get it. "
"A blade forged on the threshold to Castle amber, or on the Stairs to Tir-na Nog'th. If he is an armchair general he might like books only found in the east. Benedict's Battle Manual is reprinted across shadow but a copy printed by New Warren press in Amber, signed by Benedict? Gerard's Naval Maps. Not state secrets but they would be impressive as hell to Masoja in the realms of the Dufirosim"
"He bargains for knowledge of change....A copy of Corwin's Chronicles. Chaos is familiar territory to Dufiro but seeing Amberite shapeshifters in close enough proximity to study.... hmmmm Knowledge.. of Death, War, Change...a recommendation to admittance to Fantalin? Signed by a Lord of Amber personally to Aries Colbrese?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
As Fort and Realmer talk, Fort waxing on in thought Arnold walks up to the pair, not stepping over the circle.
"Lords, a comment, on my binding, Uzgata is fond of Fire. Most his allies started as fire Elementals. He has a legion of Fire Spirits and Avasa. His attacks will be fire based. His upper allies will have Fire in their paths. They come from realms where Fire Elementals are born in glory as I was. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer says to Fort, as Arnold approaches, "I'm sure I could promise delivery on two or three of those ideas for payment."
Realmer turns to Arnold and listens then nods to Arnold/Vatra.
"Thank you, Vatra. Your information has confirmed my suspicions and has now solidified one of my plans. Starting tomorrow, all soldiers will begin learning Fire Protection Spells while we are on the march. And the more skilled will learn Water Spells, Extinguishing Spells and Fire Control Spells as well. The most skilled will assist in teaching those Spells."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Take positions. lets do the test. Realmer, lets step over to the table."
Stepping over there are two bowls filled with powder.
"Take a pinch, like this, and sprinkle just this fast. it isn't important the line be thick but it must be unbroken. "
He demonstrates laying the line by pinches.
"I know you know how to do this but this is how to do it for this one. We start back to back and cross over till we have each pinched sand 20 times around. Don't touch this to your lips. It isn't poison, more like a sugary topping. But it can sense it on fingers and lips. We will each have a bowl and it it breaks the inner ring handfuls of it will be our first attack. Fill that silver pitcher with brandy and pot it at the 3rd over cross in the inner symbol. I have hip pig and bread fr the 5th and 7th over cross. if it comes to battle, try not to physically touch it. Its aura might be lava and who knows what protections he is set to bypass.'
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer hangs on Fort's every word and watches what he does with intent focus for every detail. He follows Fort's instructions to the letter, and does exactly as he does, without even the tiniest deviation. Realmer's attention for detail is great, Realmer's desire for this to go perfectly is high, Realmer's focus in unbreakable.
When he is done with the pinching of sand, twenty times around, he moves to the silver pitcher, fills it with brandy and puts it at the 3rd over cross in the inner symbol, as instructed.
Realmer then waits for further instruction from Fort.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort walks to a smaller of two tables. Placing a thin book upon it. He calls Realmer over. he takes the brandy bottle and fills a cup.
"Read the book first. Its not long. A Summoning book for a willing Dufiro. Read it in detail. Then encant. At each chapter heading take a drink. When you speak speak slowly, softly. This is a peaceful spirit and does not need to be commanded. She is expecting our call. I will be watching the rings for gaps and will be filling them. She will not disturb the pitcher of brandy when she arrives. The men need not their candles for her, just their attendance. Once the ritual begins wind and weather will not touch this hill for 24 hours. Begin when ready"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer moves to the table and listens to Fort's instructions carefully. He picks up the thin Tome and reads it carefully, absorbing every detail, uttering not a sound or making any gestures other than turning the pages. When he has completed the reading he will close the Tome and place it on the table, top cover up. He takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly, then says, "I am ready."
Silvermane opens the Tome with his left hand to the first page, the first chapter. He reaches with his right hand for the cup of brandy, takes a swallow, sets the cup back down and begins Encanting. He speaks slowly and softly, as instructed... but knowing that the Dufiro is willing and female, Silvermane's tone might sound sweet and kind... like a man speaking to a potential lover. Silvermane enunciates each syllable carefully making sure to put the emphasis and inflections in the right places for each word. Any gestures that needed to be performed or material components ritualistically used, Silvermane would do these without missing a beat.
When he reaches the next chapter, he drinks of the brandy again with his right hand, replacing the cup as before. He continues Encanting in his slow, soft, sweet tones, turning pages with his left hand, performing necessary gestures and use material components as needed, as the Summoning Ritual continues.
Silvermane repeats the meticulous process for each chapter until the Summoning is complete and successful, or until Fort instructs him otherwise.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
As he reads he sees the tome summons Sallistra. Its speaks of her floating in cool waters and warm winds. Her adoration of the textures of spices rubbed together, giving new scents. The taste of bread made with polished and mixed herbs. The taste of chocolates and pepper. It tells of he eagerness for new flavors and her purity of blending.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
When Silvermane finishes the final chapter of the Summoning Tome of Sallistra, the last syllable is uttered, the last gesture made and the last component offered or placed, he finally looks up to see if his summoning was successful and if Sallistra is within the Circle before him.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The air shimmers a light green and smells of clean water. A breeze of cinnamon spice follows. Fort walks along the ring, adding a pinch her and there.
after a few moments a towering waft of smoky green fog fills the circle, collapsing in the Sallistra in a long gown of many blended colors. She looks up at Realmer smiling, then looks aside at Fort. Looking back she steps forward before the tables.
"I am summoned, Silvermane. Do you mean to bind me or bargain?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I mean to bargain with you, Sallistra." Silvermane says, remembering to keep it simple and orderly. Not too much at once.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
She extends a hand, "I am eager to bargain. First, may I have a sip of your glass? It smells of fine old wines and heat."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"You used a summoning book so you may not know my Life Path. Shall I tell you?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
When Sallistra asks for the brandy, Silvermane quickly glances to his Master, Fortunadas, and makes a Amber Hand Sign asking, "Acceptable?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort looks at Realmer, "She had to try..."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Silvermane looks back to Sallistra and smiles warmly. "Yes, please, tell my your life path."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
She pouts, walks over to the bucket. "Oh this is what a smell... Why should I tell you if you would have me go thirsty?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"So you wish to bargain your Life Path for a drink of my fine brandy?" Silvermane asks, then looks to Fortunadas with a smile on his face, but a questioning look in his eye.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort, 'I said she was my friend. I didn't say she wasn't trying. "
Edited
*'''Michael James Watson'''
She walks to the edge, "Silvermane, as I have named you, I want to know you take your precautions seriously. I offer my life path so we may have grounds to bargain. I was born an elemental of Fog, child of a Masoja of Air and a Masoja of Water. I rose to be a Spirit of Cleanliness, Growth, Air, Water, and Change.
I gained Avasa of Blending. At that time I was invited to join the races of Cleanliness and Growth. I aspire to rise to be a Masoja Dufiro of Health. But I tend to get distracted. What do you bargain for and what do you offer?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort-"Don't over think it. think of style. Short Offers, short bargains.. Build a wall with small bricks"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Sally turns, "You be quiet, Foxmate or ill tell her you dally with your sister"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
she flows near the border, " It might be argued you are already in my debt. I did name you and even now it is known that an Amberite named Silvermane bargains"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort chuckles..."Don't let her fool you. She did that freely, unbound, unbidden"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Silvermane looks to his Master and smiles, "Small bricks has never been my style. Forgive me, Master."
Silvermane turns back to Sallistra.
"Sallistra, what I ask for, is the one time Power to create a Fog that will prevent the Fires of Dufiro from harming or burning anything within it. If this is within your powers, I offer you the opportunity, in the future, to Study Medicine at Vulsar Base; a pinnacle of medical science and technology. If this is possible and agreeable, we can begin working out the details."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Such a fog might be possible from a Masoja of Air or Water, or of fog, I know some exist. Perhaps even Avasa of Air or water could do such a thing. Bound to an item I might create a fog that quenched normal fires and maybe fires created by Spirits. But I am not an Avasa of Air or Water, to the disappointment of my parents I assure you!' She laughs.
"Medicine....that might serve me well, technologically..It is a bold offer, since it requires you convince forces you do not control to accept me, but I am sure you can. "
She looks to Fort, and winks.
"I sense warmth in your blood. I would offer a container of Pmel such as I brought to the Foxmate for that study"
Fort stand and crosses his arms, straight lipped staring at Sally. "Sometimes.....very trying...."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Though the benefits of Pmel are great for one like me, that amount is certainly not worth what I offer. I could find another dealer of Pmel and find a better price... once I am free of this place. But the course of Study I offer is somewhat unique and cannot be easily gotten elsewhere. Have you another counter offer?"
Silvermane looks to his Master and winks.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"A better dealer? You would seek out Nur al din el musifar himself? Such a risk... he is arbitrary, capricious, and steeped in vice!"
Fort laughs, "But he's not unfair!" they laugh together.
"My powers of blending are my strength but so can I moderate growth. I can show you how to find the Heartfire in plants to make them bloom out of season, ripen fruit that are hard and new grown. To preserve a damaged plant from death, to grow in water or survive is drought. To accept a grafting to blend new breeds"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"You say your strength is Blending... hmm. Could you create a Tattoo Ink capable of resisting a Shape Shifter's Power to naturally get rid of it? Or an Ink that 're-grows' just as fast as the Shape Shifting tries to get rid of it?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"I can not, but I know where it is. It is a Shifter thing and a Color thing. I know I can acquire a supply. Once purchased it is blended with the blood of the recipient. Then it may be used by any artist, even a mortal one, but I'll offer to impose it myself. Though I know an Avasa of Color who is an extraordinary artist. I'll acquire the Ink, blend the process and either do the work myself or arrange for it to be done by my friend the Avasa of Color"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort crosses behind Realmer and takes the brandy, chugging from the bottle.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Will this Ink be of high enough quality to be used in Trump Artistry? And will any of its properties resist the Power of Trump?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"I would think so but I can't be sure. I'm not a Trump artist. Its not a common skill among Dufiro who have other means. You would have to ask someone more skilled in the art; Color Dufiro would know. My friend the Avasa of Color would know. But its a high quality material,, it stands to reason it would. Foxmate?"
Fort nods, "It seems within the realm of reason that it would. But id try it a few times before trying to mix pattern magic like trump with it"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well, that is my intent, and should it fail, that is on me." He says to Fort, then turns to Sallistra. "Once acquired and delivered, I will have you do the first blending of a small amount with my blood, showing me exactly how to do it so I can replicate the process for other Shape Shifters when I have the need. And since Trump Artistry will be involved, I will have to do the Tattoo work myself. Does it come in multiple colors? Does the Ink itself have Shape Shifting properties... like color change?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"So you bargain for blending powers as well as blended ink? I can deliver the ink, blend it with your blood easily enough. That result would work on you as a usable ink. I would try to arrange a color changing base medium but I don't know of it well and can not promise that.. but showing you how to blend it would be a new thing. A magical skill. Though I imagine once you see it done you could probably figure it out yourself."
She walks around the edges, tapping the field, looking antsy. " I grow weary. You summoned me on my spirit tome since it is one the Foxmate may call to hand. It is in my power to break this circle. My bargain is for Ink, base medium to be blended with your blood, I'll even blend the medium with a few others for your till you mange the art yourself. For entrance into Vulsar Medical training. That's how I stand"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Bargain struck. Agreed." Silvermane turns to his Master.
"Is it acceptable to let her out now and give her a drink?" He asks, then chuckles.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort-"No.. Letting her out will break the circle. The bargain is struck though we will speak later of style. both are bound to compete the transaction in honor. Release her. I can summon her again later through less detailed measures. "
She nods, "Yes, release me. I will deliver the ink the day I enter the training you speak of. It will take time to acquire."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Agreed. Sallistra, I release you." Silvermane says and performs what ever Ritual needed to release her. When she is gone, Realmer takes the bottle from Fort and takes a swig.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort-"Alright. The Circle is secure. The Field is covering the hilltop. I need a few hours rest. I don't have time to discuss bargaining style with you in detail. I did throw it on you and that's on me. You did manage it and that makes the effort a success. But, you didn't know her life path before hand so you had to guess. You didn't know what you were asking was in her power. so she had to guess too. You placed both of you in an awkward place. She does not know if the ink will change colors. She has to consult an Ava of Color and may have to bargain on her end too. You asked for two things-Ink that shifts with a shifter and doesn't regenerate out, and the power to blend the base medium with other shifter's bloods. That's two bargains. You don't know if Vance or Random will allow a Dufiro to attend Star Fleet Medical. There are a lot of moving parts you both are now bound to make happen come hell or high water. The fewer the moving parts the better the bargain when dealing with a summoned Dufiro. Now, when she and You and I sit around the cafeteria at Vulsara, chatting, we can explore deals with more moving pieces. that said, it was boldly done. But it was a success partly because Sally knows you, knows me, and knew ahead of time she was going to twist our chains a little. I also know she had two fine horn bows in her pouch that we won't have for a few days at least. Now, go speak to the troops. They are already probably wondering what all the color was all about. And, mind if I hold onto the bottle for an hour or so?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer chuckles, takes a swig off the bottle, then hands it back to Fort, saying, “Don't drink it all; I still haven't made the Refilling Spell permanent yet. I'd like to give all the Apprentices time to rest as well, with your permission, Master.” Realmer says the word 'master' with both sarcasm and respect. “And if you'll delay your afternoon nap for just a bit, I plan to address the Army as soon as I can get them all Assembled.”
Realmer pauses for a moment then says, “Bob, Message Relay to all Commanders: Commanders; before we begin our march tomorrow morning, I have need to address the entire Army. Have all Troopers assemble immediately; Foot Troops on the slope outside the Camp on the Hill, Cavalry on the beginning of the Plain beneath. End Message Relay. Bob; once the Troops start massing, send 6 of your Remote Link Hummingbirds to watch the perimeter of the Camp, the other 6 the Farmstead. Once the Address is over and the Troops begin returning to their posts, sent the Hummingbirds back to their respective Commanders. Thank you, Bob.”
“Fort, you are exempt from attending in person, but I will have Bob 'pipe it in' if you don't have your own way to listen in. I will be using a Spell to make my Voice Easily Heard at a Distance, but not Amplification. I'm going to head for that tiny little bump in the Plain in front of where the Cavalry will assemble and prepare my Spell. If I don't see you before this evening; rest well.”
Realmer has Bob Trump his to the top of the Tiny Bump on the Plain.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Once Realmer arrives on the Tiny Bump, he Weaves a High Order Spell; Voice Easily Heard at a Distance with the Range set to the top of the Slope by the Camp above and the same distance all around him in a circle. He holds the final Lynchpin to Activate the Spell until all Commanders give the Signal that all Troops are Assembled, then he releases the Spell.
“Soldiers of Amber! Your performance since arriving on Adledross has been exemplary. Thank you all for your hard work and cooperation in working together as a Cohesive Army. I am proud to serve with each and every one of you. And if the Adledrossians should decide to change the Commanders at any point during our time here, I would gladly and proudly serve under any man or woman here that is placed into a Command position.”
“I am sure by now all of you have noticed some of the unusual situations we have faced, and some of the unusual preparations being made, especially in the last several days... situations and preparations that a Normal Army may never have to deal with. Situations that WE may have to deal with on a daily basis as we travel across this world. And the reason why... is because WE are NOT a Normal Army. The reason WE are not a Normal Army is because WE are Users of Magic. Sure, in the past there have been the occasional Practitioner of the Arts that has attended this place, but none like US... and not in such large numbers. Before coming here, some of us were Wizards, Mages, Clerics, Druids, Sorcerers, Conjurers, Summoners of Dufiro, Bearers of Sigils of Power and even those with God-like Abilities... and now, as of today, each and every one of US is a User of Magics in some way. And by the end of OUR journey here on Adledross, I expect that each of You will leave with Significant Abilities as a Low Order Mage or Wizard, some with the abilities of a High Order Sorcerer or Conjurer, and a few with Access to even Greater Powers. WE are a truly Unique Army to this place so WE will be facing truly unique situations because of it. Situations like the Event that will take place on that hilltop over there, tonight.”
Realmer pauses as he turns and points to the flattened hilltop in question. Then he lowers his arm and turns back around and continues.
“The horrors you will experience tonight will fray your nerves and push your mental and emotional endurance to the breaking point. But you will endure and survive this because you are strong and well trained. And the horrors you experience tonight, and perhaps many more times before leaving Adledross, will be like a country faire compared to what some of you may face once you leave this place, depending on the Army you will eventually serve. The creatures of Chaos and the Abyss are far beyond what you will experience here on Adledross; they are truly nightmarish... but your time here, facing these horrors will better prepare you for what is out there. When ALL of you leave Adledross, each of you will be better prepared to face those Nightmarish Creatures than Any. Other. Army. That. Has. Graduated. This. Place. Before. US!”
“A little over a week ago, some us came down here to investigate a single building, but instead found this Farmstead, a few buildings at a time... buildings that were not there the day before according to our Scouts.” Short pause. “The Farmstead is here because a group of 12 poorly trained Ritualists in another Shadow were tampering with Powers beyond their understanding. They were dealing with an Unwillingly Bound Dufiro of Rage and War. It had been trading powers with them for many generations. They mistook Its help as for their benefit alone. It preyed on their gullibility, and that of their forefathers, to an end they could not comprehend. It convinced them to try to Summon my Sub-Commander, Fortunadas; It failed to know where Fort was and what he was doing and the Summoing brought all of them here. The 12 men died in the process of this Farmstead being transported through Shadow, here to Adledross. Fortunadas used his Clerical Powers to bring them back to life so that we may discover what happened. And we did. Now those 12 Ritualist are learning proper magic and learning proper tradecraft for dealing with the Dufiro.”
“During the investigation of the Farmstead, that Unwillingly Bound Dufiro was released... some of you may have witnessed Its flight from the house. We call It Reggie the Rager and It is set on destroying US. We managed to get 20 days to prepare for Its return... and It will be bringing Its own army with It when It comes. Tomorrow is day 10 and tomorrow morning WE march. But tonight, Fort, myself and our combined Apprentices will be Summoning a different type of Dufiro to help us in our war against Reggie the Rager. I am sure most of you are Unfamiliar with the term Dufiro or Dufiroism, but I am sure most of you have heard of Elementals. Dufiroism are a Spirit Race that begin their lives as Elementals and grow more powerful over time until they become a Spirit, then they can eventually advance to Avasa, and then finally attain the status of Masoja; growing considerably in Power with each advancement. These creatures are NOT Demons; the creatures from Chaos. Nor are they Demons OR Angels from Below or Above. Nor Devils or Gods. They are creatures of a section of Shadowlands where power is directable by their life forces. Dufiro can be called upon, in order to bargain for powers and experiences, by Practitioners such as myself, my Sub-Commander Fort, and perhaps even some you, before our time here on Adledross is done.”
“Today, some of you witnessed a Summoning at midday, performed by myself and Sub-Commander Fortunadas, assisted by our Apprentices. That Summoning was with a Willing and Peaceful Dufiro that came to help us prepare for tonight. Tonight however, we will be Summoning an Adversarial Creature that will NOT want to help us willingly, it is a Masoja Dufiro of Knowledge. We may also need to summon others as well, so that we may know more about our enemy; Reggie the Rager, and so that we may defeat him. We have already learned that Reggie's Life Path began as a Fire Elemental, as did most, if not all, of his 'followers'. We also learned that most of their attacks will be fire-based. But understand... this is NOT Normal Fire; this is Elemental Fire, which is way worse. Knowing this, we are already working on strategies, defenses, protections and attacks based on this Intel. The first is that all Magical Training, beginning today, will be based on Protection for Fire, Extinguishing Fires, Controlling Fires, Water-Based Spells and Cold-Based Spells. Much of this training will occur On The March, after tonight's Event.”
“The Hilltop over there has Powerful Magics protecting it, designed to keep the Dufiro from escaping and harming those outside the Magic Circles. A ring of Guards has been stationed around the base of That Hill. That ENTIRE Hill is OFF LIMITS to EVERYONE!!! On That Hill, Fortunadas has complete Command, even over me. If HE has not personally Ordered you to be on That Hill... it is Off Limits. NO matter what you see or hear on That Hill, NOBODY is to approach or interfere for ANY REASON. ONLY Fortunadas himself can contradict that Order. Unless you are on Guard Duty at the time of tonight's Event, I highly recommend that you get a good view of That Hill and watch what happens up there. It will be an Education and will help prepare all of you for what is to come. After tonight's Event we will know more and be better able to Strategize; more information and orders will follow. I have great confidence that each of you will handle tonight's Event, as well as the rest of Our time here on Adledross, like Hardened Soldiers and Wizened Wizards; professionally. Calm, Logical, Tactical and Strategically Knowledgeable. Make me Proud, Soldiers of Amber. Dismissed.”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
As the troops disperse and discuss the speech and the news they learned one among them wends his way up to where Realmer stands, a close as he may.
That he is 6' taller then most everyone else make him easy to spot.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Commander, "He says in a voice that drips with such command that Realmer starts a little in surprise.
"I would have a word with you. Now.. and I should speak to Fort as well..."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer does the best he can to resist the urge to 'jump' due the the 'commanding voice'; he hesitates only long enough to show his strength.
"Of course, Alexandir. I was expecting some questions and dialogues would follow that speech. I have time now. Would you like Fort to be present now as well? Or have you need to speak with me first?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He inhales deeply, and when he speaks Realmer realizes what the commanding voice was. It was the Bene Gesserit Voice of command. From his reading of the general histories it seems to fit the effect the witches of the Bene gesserit seemed to have.
"Yes, bring Fort, Now"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Again, Realmer does his best to resist, but still complies as he wants to, not because he is being told to.
"Bob, Trump me and Alexandir to Fort's location, unless he is on the Hilltop, then Trump us to the base of the Hill outside the ring of Guards."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Bob moves you both to the edge of the ring. Fort is resting against a rock, he looks up and sighs in resignation.
"Ya....ya...ya.....I knew you would complain but it was necessary."
Alex scowls,"I have known you to do many foolish things, Fortunadas, but this reeks of base folly of the worst kind. You toy with a Masoja of rage and War and don't include me? If it is a War Masoja do you think he would not recognize me?"
"Great Venki, preserve me.." Standing..
"Do you know how silly that sounds coming from any of us?" Alex barks.
"I summon a Avasa of Knowledge tonight, possible a Masoja. Not a Combat specialist. Let me get through tonight and tomorrow on the march you can whine at me oh great King of Tosian, most worshipful Saint of Battle and mightiest among the rock touchers..." His last part comes in what is clearly a mocking voice.
Alex..."rock touchers, high priest? I shall stand Tyler. If you speak truth then we may speak anon. If not, by the World Stone, I swear I shall take on my aspect and raise my attribute and Benedict be damned if he doesn't like it. "
Fort, "If you use your Aspect and Attribute on this battle world I shall sing the song of your failure of restraint in the high temple at Wall. Now, Please Alex, let me rest. "
He turns to Realmer, "Realmer, think me not a brute, but I've seen these creatures twist the most well meaning of wizards.. I would not have them twist....." he waves his hand at Fort, "my friend.."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer looks deep into Alexandir's eyes, seeing what appears to be concern for a friend, Alex, looking back will see the same look in Realmer's eyes. Realmer then turns back to Fort.
"I've got this, Fort. Get some rest; we have a big night ahead of us."
Realmer turns and walks away from the Hill. As he does, he says, "Alexandir, walk with me."
He does not say it in a commanding tone, but his body language (him still walking away) and his Presence, makes it clear it was an Order. Once they are a bit away from Fort, Realmer speaks.
"Alex; though my knowledge is still growing, I know enough to know just how dangerous and devious the Dufiro are. Even the Peaceful ones are bordering on difficult to deal with. I would not see them twist Fort to their Will either... I've grown fond of the Old Wind Bag."
He looks back over his shoulder at Fort, knowing he should be out of normal earshot by now.
"But the reason why this is all happening is partly because Fort Summoned Dufiro to help himself, Tesa and the Drtida because I did not want to risk a war with the Treba Cursis. And it is partly my fault for letting that Masoja of Rage and War out of his cage, as it were... knowing full well that Fort should have faced It alone as his punishment for breaking the rules of Adledross for using Powers uncommon to the Majority." He looks to Alex conspiratorially. "I received a little inside information after Fort broke the rules. But even knowing I could have stepped aside and let Fort take his punishment, and it might have ended right there and then... I just couldn't do it. It didn't feel right. Even before I knew the real reason why Fort came here, I still would have acted the same. You don't abandon your..... friends. So now..." heavy sigh, "we are all in this together. And if things go awry, tonight or at any point in things... Alex, I will certainly call on you first to bail our asses out of the trouble we got ourselves into. Rest assured. I'm looking out for him like he is looking out for me... and oddly, for an Amberite of the Royal Family... I trust that."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Alex sits, making him easier to speak to.
"Its been thousands of years since I served under anyone. I fought under King Arin of Freestate. One could say I fought under Tolknor but he would say we fought beside each other rather the any of us leading each other though. ...He is like Dworkin..founded a realm...so if I follow anyone it's him. He is my liege in some ways but not in Tosa...feudal fealty you know...now...He tells me that in the scheme of things that Random rules a realm that is over us. That Amberites are of a higher reality..perhaps...but Your king seems a popinjay. Of the many in Amber I have met..only Benedict seems above me and I'd cross blades to be certain of it.. I would bet on Zatonic against Gerard. Tolknor tells me to prove myself to Amber, so I came here. Fort, he has always been the diplomat..but I've stood to battle beside him in hard war. As much as he may disapprove of me sometimes, I trust him. When we leave this foolish world and its foolish rules, I just may trust one of the House of Barimen. If I do, it will be the first one. "
Raising, "if you stand second, you should rest too. I'll stand Tyler."
Edited
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I do stand Second, and I will rest soon, thank you Alex. But there is one last thing I need to attend to first; I need to have an enclosed wagon built or modified... I need it be along the lines of a Conestoga... sometimes called a Gypsy Wagon. Nothing fancy, just enclosed, sturdy, and with one closeable door that a normal sized man can easily fit through. If we can't spare the horses, I can devise other means of movement for it. I know we've been building artillery so I'm sure someone can figure it out and make it... hopefully by dawn. Think you can help with that, Alex?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He nods. "A vardo wagon? We have wagons for artillery. Cloth top?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Yes, a Vardo Wagon. Not cloth topped. Wooden all around. Door on the back... maybe a trapdoor window on the front by the driver's bench. But both must be able to be closed and latched, at the least. The interior can remain bare."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Should be easy enough. I'll pass the order to the artillery commander so it does not appear I am issuing orders or taking a leadershi[pp role. He has the wagons for the atilery. Maybe he can order some of the troop to carry the siege equipemnt on their backs....mind if I ask who you plan to lock in this wheeled prison?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Why, it's for you Alex." Realmer pauses for just a moment then speaks in a playfully sarcastic tone. "I've grown weary of your constant insubordination so I've decided to strip you of your powers, shrink you down to man size, and lock you in that pillory box until we escape this world."
Realmer gives Alex a sideways look with a playful smile on his face.
"I'm only jesting, of course. Actually, it's going to be a wheeled Laboratory. I have a high order spell my own creation that will effectively create a large extra dimensional space and fill it with the contents of one of my private Laboratories off in Shadow. If one were to open the wagon door without saying the passphrase, they would only find the inside of an empty wagon."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Wendy's Wagon...I've seen such things before. Jeremey makes them for trade. At least he did in the years before he found the World Stone. "
He smiles, stands and starts to walk toward the Artillery camp.
"And Realmer, should you ever wish to try your magic on me, here or elsewhere, you are welcome to try. I shall stand to receive your full might and glory. Together we shall see its result. But when your arsenal is complete consider your words carefully. I may laugh comradely or I may engage. I have stood the hazard such on the sand of Gesheka and won a Lords Seat without a raised blade."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer smiles broadly and chuckles.
"Alex; I would never try to use my Powers on you for I know they would most likely not work at all or have so little effect as to be useless. I would never challenge you, Alexandir; on this World or any other... I have no doubt about your prowess and no disillusions about mine. To be perfectly honest... I was just checking to see if you had a sense of humor."
Realmer gives Alex a wink and a smile.
"And thank you for relaying my Orders to the Artillerists; gives me more time to rest before tonight's Big Event. Speaking of which... when it all begins, I would like you close at hand, just in case something goes awry. Station yourself near the foot of the Hill. If I feel Fort has wandered too far into the woods or the Dufiro has gained control of the situation, I will call you in."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He stops walking down hill, and turns. the angle making him close to eye level with Realmer.
"I have a sense of humor. It is in a box in the Temple of Alexandir in Wall. Similar boxes hold my modesty, my insecurity, the true story of my birth, and my true name. Such a system allows me to show them to others at a time of my choosing... When it comes to humor, I leave such things to Conf, Venki, Mitcholt,or Fort. They have better skill at it. But since you ask...two centaurs walk into a bar...They should have ducked"
He continues walking down the hill. "I shall stand Tyler where I must. I know where to stand and I know when to break the circle.. Depend on it."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer nods his head, thinking how useful it must be to puts one 'emotions' in a box elsewhere. Then he laughs loudly and openly at Alex's joke... Realmer knows a Centaur Bard back on Oerth that would love that joke.
Then Realmer nods to Alex in respect and walks back towards the Farmhouse and his bed... taking the time to sort some thoughts and rehearse in his head tonight's Ritual. When he arrives at the Farmhouse he will bed down for a couple of hours of rest and have Bob wake him two hours before he is needed on the Hilltop.