Editing Volume Two: The Adask War Wizard (section)

====<big>The New Wind Lord & his New & Old Commanders</big>====

*'''Michael James Watson'''
(This was out of order, with information I needed to have recorded. reworking it to be a conversation Realmer was not present for.)  Venki says, "Ur-viles... Stone trolls... That means Earthpower... Now that you mention it I can feel it."  He kneels, putting his hands flat on the ground. Momentarily a small rise of stone comes up, flattening out to a small bird feeder, about a foot tall. Slowly water fills it.  Geata walks nearer, and Fort walks to it. Room is left for Realmer to join.  Fort reaches in and cups water in his hand, bringing it to his lips.  "Earth Draught. Adagalasck has Earthpower. The stone trolls are not an aberration.  Zatonic walks over and looks at Fort. "Earthpower. You damned wizards. That means... does that mean... Are you telling me that...?"  Fort shrugs, "In a set of infinity all things are possible. This place felt to me in a way like Paradox fallen. I ignored the feeling. There is something somehow dark about this world, even in the brightest sun, even in the sound of laughter. I didn't realize it till now. Adagalask must have an Illearth Stone. It has Stone Trolls, and Rynhahyn, and Ur-viles. It may have True Wood. It probably even has Ravers. Julian must be told. Realmer, Julian must be told soon if he does not know already."  

*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"By Chronos and Timex, what happened!!!???"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
A serving girl looks up and runs out.  Moments later Fort enters. "We tried everything but a proctology exam trying to wake you. But Julian assures us it's normal. Happened to him."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer chuckles and sits up. He yawns and sounds a bit groggy.  "That bit of information would have been nice to know before I Claimed the Stair. So what has transpired during my forced slumber?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer rubs the sleep from his eyes, stretches his arms and neck, yawns, then gets out of bed and repeats the process again, including the other parts of his body, getting all the kinks out of his muscles and shaking the 'sand' from his mind.  "So, has Clan Shaxta started any trouble yet? I know they were on the borders of the South when I claimed the Wind. Have Clans Kalota and Trixta arrived to help with the Shaxta problem? I'm guessing no more Stone Trolls have manifested to plague us. What about these Ur-viles that have been mentioned; any signs of them? Are Venki and the Snooze Squad still here? And Zatonic and Geata? Annnd what about Tesa? Has anyone looked into her 'condition' or made changes to her 'condition' since I've been slumbering? And where In the Abyss did Giovanni disappear to!? Protector of Lady Tesara, indeed. Pfff. I'm hungry. Really hungry. I need food. There is much to talk over and much more to do. Let's do it over breakfast. What time is it anyway?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort says, 'THe Shakta are holled up in Ojakkia. They are taking the tip kingdom of Taski. We are sorting out or forces here, securing the middle kingdoms. We have had emessaries from the western kingdoms of the south who apparently never liked Emilie much.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Hmmm... it hadn't occurred to me that some of the Denizens in the South might not have liked Emilisa's Reign... how beneficial for me that I am not her." He chuckles.  "Sounds like you have been doing an excellent job of keeping things moving while I was unavailable. I'm sure you've also done equally well at explaining my absence and making me look good in the process." Realmer chuckles and gives Fort a wink.  "So, who's still here, helping with the effort? How fares Fore Foot Opasen Vrag?" He checks his hand for Satura's Ring, which should have returned on its own once the Centaur was fully healed.  "And where are we?" he asks as he checks himself to make sure he is fully dressed and then checks the room to make sure he has his gear before leaving the room in search of food.  As Realmer exits the room, he does not ask Fort for directions, he just follows his instincts and goes the direction that feels right... and he follows his nose; searching for the smells of cooking food.  "But I think the most pressing matter, if battle is not eminent, is Tesara and Bob; something is not right with either and we need to find out what. With a quarter of a Realm to Rule, a war with Clan Shaxta already underway, the possibility of encountering Stone Trolls again and those Ur-viles you mentioned, a new powerful enemy in my cousin, Emilisa, and the coming of Borlak and The Flowing Horde... I can't have any of my companions compromised; I need my Team at full strength and full capacity. Something happened after I left King Julian's Estate for my brief trip to Vulsar Base to meet with King Random; Tesa and Skadi disappear WITH Bob and I still don't know why or how... other that the Pegasus part. And now Skadi is with Fiona and last I saw her, Tesa was far too friendly and compliant, so not her normal self, and Bob thinks he is HER familiar as well. So, breakfast first. Then I take Tesa, Bob, and you... and Venki and the Snooze Squad if they're interested, to a fast time realm off one of the Steps in the Stair Tower and we figure out what happened to them both."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort says, “Ok, cool your jets, Your Windiness. I have a member of the lullaby league that's a crowned bard of the Merchant's World and specializes in cooking running your kitchens and the provender logistics of the army. Lets got get some food and I'll tell you where things stand. Don't make me hold you down and pour Bayle's Red down your gullet with a beer bong tube.”  He directs Realmer away from a large bakery project out to a door. Once through he sees he is on a Stair, third up.  “I put the medical stations and the food prep operations on the third stair. I attuned myself to the stair and spiral. I also walked Venki, and Geata through them. Venki is our expert on earthpower. Geata is, well, I'll get the her in a bit. Lets go up to the top of the Spiral. Julian said when you woke up your would be ravenous even for an Amberite. So when the maid got me I told her to tell Dame Wilma to fix us a plate then fix us a meal. She will be at your office in a few minutes. Julian wants to be called as soon as possible but lets sort you out first.”  He talks as he walks, a firm arm on Realmer's elbow.  “Venki and Zatonic have gone to Kaski, at the tip of the South's continent. He thinks there is something there that is powerful in the earth. Zatonic is there for muscle. Geata is the brains of the opperations. She was the logistical boss back during the Paradox wars and having an army to supply and apparently infinite resources has gotten her juices flowing. My advice is stay out of her way. 90% of what an army does is train, camp and eat. She is good at making that stuff happen.”  Getting him up the spiral to the spiral room he sees Xorit looking over a large table with maps. At the table are a green Titanide, as well as the Centaur commander, Carston, and two members of the Lullaby League; Human and a large gnome. Off to a side is the most disreputable looking hobbit you ever saw, tossing dice in the air impatiently. He straightens as Fort and Realmer enter.
Xorit says, “Its good to see you awake Windlord. We should find time to talk. Privately.”  Fort comes to the map. Little figurines dot it. “He eats before he goes off with you, Xorit.”  Fort says, “Here is Kaski. That's where Venki is. The battles will be in Ojak. I'm told it's bustling with eagerness. Emilisa is there, or at least her commanders are. Over in the west are the islands that had little to do with Emilie, except officially. A wizard from there is coming. We will know what he intends then. The Shaxta are staked out at a place called Three Corners; a place where the borders of Clitford, Ojakkia, and Codupia meet. A battle is probable there. After you took the Spiral and we beat the crap out of the stone trolls, any un-slept Shaxta went there.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
When Fort mentions pouring Bayles Red down Realmer's gullet, he actually stops for a moment and gives Fort a very hard look, but then continues walking with him and listens to his report as they climb the Stair.  As they enter the Spiral Room, Realmer looks everyone over and gives them a nod of recognition and respect. As Fort continues to relay his report, Realmer looks over the map and the figurines and gets a sense of what's going on and where.  "Fort, I can't thank you enough for what you've done for me. Had it not been for your presence, your military experience and your comrades' assistance, I fear this whole matter might have turned into a giant cluster fuck really fast."  Realmer claps Fort on the shoulder, then takes a moment to steady himself on the edge of the table as a hunger pain racks his body with weakness for a moment. He reaches inside a pocket of his Robe and pulls out a piece of jerked meat and begins gnawing upon it as he looks around the room for the plate of promised food.  "So, Venki found something powerful within the Earth in Kaski, huh? Do you think it has anything to do with the Stone Trolls and what Emiliesa did?" He asks around a mouthful of jerked meat.
"And what, in your assessment, is our most pressing matter? Besides my need for food." He chuckles while continuing to gnaw upon the dried meat.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
As the food arrives, a short platter of meats, cheeses and pickles, and flat breads, Fort says, "Well, there are matters of meat and matters of wine. The meat is a battle at Three Corners that would be against Krelet and his clan. The lullaby league is potent but there are a lot of ways to protect oneself from sleep magic if one knows to expect it. I suspect after losing something like a third of his forces here I am guessing he will have made efforts to protect his troops from sleep magic."  Xorit says, "I have about 1000 of Clan Shaxta on one of the stairs.. Prisoners. THere are ways to take them into another clan and unless you want them I intend to take them into Trixta."  Fort says, "Another meat battle is in Ojakkia. I hear the Ojak is always a hotbed of controversy and battle. Opasen Vrag here tells me that Emiliesa allowed bloodsports in arenas rather then warfields, to restrain collateral damage in Ojakkia and conflicts were berought to a collection of Arenas across Clitford, Ojakkia, and Espia with a major arena in Sieze, Fertia, and Kaski. As much as the idea seems brutal it might be something you should continue. " He points to one of the Bards.  One of the Bards, a human says., "Windlord, I am Dasial at Droba. I participate in the Lullaby League because, well, Venki. But I am also a Lord Gladiator on Gesheka. A step away from being a Lord of the Games there. My Bardic Crown is a militant one on Gesheka. With your permission, in the future, I can establish a Warrior Core and Lord Gladiator's Association in this region of the South in order to give a direction to the violently inclined."  Fort motions that he is continuing, as Realmer finished the appetizer plate.  "So the battles in Ojakkia could be spread all over 4 kingdoms... OR.. we can take to the largest of the battle areanas, in Clitford and announce that we will settle the matters there. It will piss Emilisa off furiously because those are her orders but it means she has to break her own laws or else enter a magical battle in the arena. Good luck with that. Should you wish a champion against her, I think something can be arranged."  Opasen Vrag says, "Many of the Fea will not fight that way. But as Fortunadus has explained to me, their battle isn't a 'Meat" matter.”  Fort nods, "Matters of Wine-Magical issues and magical warfare. With the exception of fighting Emilie herself, much of the battles of the Fea will be magical.. But, they are secondary to the other Wine Matter. Venki says there are several powerful resonances in the South Wind regions. He is sorting them out. But he does not think the Illlearth Stone is in the South, if Adagalask has one at all. He will know if he comes near it. He thinks something else magical is happening in Kasaki and he went to figure it out. Thats the WIne matters for the moment. Yes, I know Xorit, you are next. " He points to Xorit, who had raised a hand.  Xorit says, "This warrior core business. Arena war, you witnessed something very much like it when we first met. It is a common practice across the 4 Winds. Baron Dasial and I have spoken about it in the last couple days and it bears great potential. I think we can shave a great deal of Krelet's forces if we appeal to him in this manner. I think the Adask Banners might take strongly to it. As such, it might be wise to build a stadium, establish Lords of the Games, and let the warriors of the world come to fight there."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
A buffet is wheeled in and a Heavy set pleasing woman pushing it declares the buffet open...
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer nods his head while listening. Once the food is brought in, Realmer says, “Oh, thank you, kind Lady!” Then grabs a plate and heaps food upon it then moves aside to eat while examining the maps for a bit while others get food. This also gives him time to think a bit more... much has happened during his three day slumber. After several bites, Realmer says:  “So then, to the 'Meat' of the matter: I don't like the idea of open Warfare; too much collateral damage. However, I like this idea of a Warrior Core and a Lord Gladiator's Association; I enjoyed the Pit Fights and Gladiatorial Games in the City of Greyhawk for many years and found they kept the violence off the streets and kept the citizens a bit more safe. And as for using Arena Wars to settle matters; this idea I love. We need to make it happen. If it is already something used in the South, then let us continue it and improve it as Dasial and Xorit suggest. And Xorit; it is good to see you as well. Thanks for coming. And take the 1000 Shaxta and make them Trixta... but the next 1000 go to Kalota.”  He stops to eat several more bites, then something sticks in his mind; he pauses and looks to Fort.  “Illearth Stone? What exactly is an Illearth Stone? And why does Venki think there is one here in Adagalasck?”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The green Titanide says," Windlord, An illearth stone is the septic pit that all the evils of the world flows into. Grown wise in woe, it can be called on to empower those who create nightmares."  Fort says,"Realmer, this is Psaltry. An earth mage of lost Paradox. Also a lady of Mandalay. When Paradox fell she was one of the few of the Tosa/York region of shadow to escape to this higher realm of existence. Her metaphor is poetic and not far off. Its a Stone of Power. Probably the size of a large watermelon. Green and glowing. Like many power stones it may be a shadow of the jewel of judgment. That's what Tolknor thinks. But who knows? What is certain is that practioners can summon great malevolent power from it and use it in many ways. Of the people from our neck of the woods, Psaltry, Venki, Beor, Tolknor, Zatonic, Digan and Jeremy were tops in understanding the Earthpower and manipulation of the Illearth Stone.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Psaltry says, "The keeper of oaths is too humble to include himself in the list of the masters of earth power."  The hobbit snorts, lights a fowl smelling cigar, and says, "Well, Pony, of Dear Fort's many qualities, his humbleness was sold to Vargus long ago. It was replaced with arrogance and a silky singing voice. I like him better as a woman. Makes him more fun to argue with."  Fort scowls, "Don't make me regret summoning you. Realmer, Hibbit of the Stye. An expert thief."  
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer continues to eat heartily as he listens to those around him. He bows his head respectfully to Psaltry when Fort introduces them formally. He gives Hibbit a slight nod when Fort introduces them.  "Hmmmmm, very interesting. I recall you mentioning a few things about Paradox Fallen while we were on Adledross, Fort. But I certainly think we should take some time in the near future to discuss Paradox, and its powers, at great length; especially since Adagalasck seems to mirror some of those things you and your comrades encountered there."  He eats a bit more food, washes it down with whatever drink is handy, provided it is not wine, and then continues.  "Fort as a woman? Hmmmm... I can see how that would make him more interesting."  Realmer chuckles and gives Fort a wink and a playful smile. He continues eating until his plate is cleared, then he returns to the buffet, heaps his plate full of food a second time, then returns to the table with the maps and proceeds to stuff his face one again.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Hibbit says, "Fort is a woman.. And it doesn't make him any more interesting."  Fort scowls at Hibbit, "OK, lets get you out of here. There are hundreds of worlds with millions of things to steal. You've a year of time on this world starting now. Get out."  Fort looks at Realmer, "Ah...I'm only a woman part of the time...its a bard thing..." He takes a several pieces of cheese and walks back to the maps.  "You have to excuse Hibbit. He is a very feisty boggie and he does have some fine abilities."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer watches as Hibbit leaves and says to Fort without looking at him.  "It seems that most of your associates are some degree of pain in the arse, but all seem to have a high degree of skills and abilities. It's a trade-off, but it seems to me, that it's worth it."  Realmer takes a couple of bites of food then looks at Fort, his right eye brow slightly arched and an odd smile on his lips.  "A woman." He snorts gently in near-disbelief and shakes his head slightly. "I should have suspected; by your logistical skills and multi-tasking abilities alone." He shakes his head again then pauses for a moment, a slight smile still on his face. "A 'Bard thing'... it would have to be something like that; I never noticed any active Shape Shifting abilities within you. Fascinating."
He takes a couple more bites of food, nods his head to himself it seems, then casually address the room, speaking in a clear and authoritative tone but without speaking above conversation levels.  "Meat to the Slaughterhouse. Open Warfare will not be tolerated; punishable by loss of lands and title for Family and Clan forever. Arena Wars only hence forth to settle all matters requiring hostilities. Send a messenger to Krelat of Shaxta to inform him that he and his forces will be met at the Arena in Clitford to settle any and all hostilities. When I speak with King Julian later, I will stress the need for all other Winds to adopt the same policies."  "Xorit, Dasial; when time permits, continue working together to establish a Warrior Core and the Lord Gladiator's Association; a Great Coliseum will come in time. And include Opasen Vrag in all your meetings and heed her input on the Fey and ways of the South. I will speak with King Julian on this matter as well and as strongly as the previous matters."  He takes a few more bites and washes it all down, draining the drinking vessel in the process, then placing it upon the table.  "Wine takes Time, Knowledge and Skill. In regards to the first matter; in time Venki will find answers and we will know more, and hopefully be able to apply that knowledge skillfully to our advantage. In regards to the second matter; in time we will know which groups of Fey oppose us and we will use our knowledge of their powers and tactics to defend ourselves and our newly improved skills in Magical Warfare." he looks at Fort, then Carston and smiles, recalling more than one magical battle on Adledross.  He finishes the last of the food on his plate and heads to the buffet cart for his thirds. He asks, as he heaps food upon his plate once again.  "So, now that the pressing matters of Meat and Wine have been addressed, let's move to the matters of Wind. What pressing matters require my personal attention as the Wind Lord of the South, the new Stair Lord and a General in King Julian's Army? After this plate of food I would like some time to have the requested private conversation with Xorit. Then after that, some time to make a Trump Call or two as well as Hang a few Spells. Fort, if you think things won't fall apart in both of our absence, I'd like you to join me. I'm headed to a Very-fast-time Realm off of a Step near the top of the South Stair that is perfect for my needs."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort nods...looks to Xorit and Opasen, "Lord, Lady, to a large degree the names on these maps might as well be fiction to me now. That won't always be so. The Arena in Clitford...This place, "putting a finger on the map, "Three Corners. Every report says the Krelet will make a stand there? Is there a place there, flat land, large enough for two large armies to face off on flat ground. Near water. Perhaps with low hills nearby, near trade routes or roads?"  Xorit and Opasen look at each other. She speaks, “Yes. The whole region at Three Corners has been a war plain since the dawn of time. The battle plain is ringed by mountains, the flat road in the foothills on either side. A lake is at the north tip, an the border of Ojakkia and Clitford runs through it. Another lake to the south is in Codupia, where the road from the north join for points south. There are three cities on the plain. They have been war centers for ages.”  Fort looks to Realmer and nods, “Its good. Daisial...Go to Three Corners. Scout the region. Consider it the place for the new stadium. A war Stadium. Field, Stands, access roads.. If Krelet heeds the Windlord's decree we fight at the stadium at Clitford Stair. If he does not, and it turns out the battle is to be at Three Corners, well....we will make a display. Take Salik and Sama in case you need to lullaby anyone. I'll arrange trump gates as needed.”   “Sir, That covers most things for the moment. Have your meeting with Xorit. When that's done i'll have a couple specialist here and I'll have talked to Venki. Geata will be here in the short future and she will know the state of the forces and be getting them ready to march, stand, or fly”ort nods...looks to Xorit and Opasen, "Lord, Lady, to a large degree the names on these maps might as well be fiction to me now. That won't always be so. The Arena in Clitford...This place, "putting a finger on the map, "Three Corners. Every report says the Krelet will make a stand there? Is there a place there, flat land, large enough for two large armies to face off on flat ground. Near water. Perhaps with low hills nearby, near trade routes or roads?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer looks at the place on the map; Three Corners, he smiles and nods his head, recalling what King Julian had told him.  "Three Corners... it was exactly the place I had in mind for the War Stadium; Julian had mentioned the place to me before but I was not familiar with it's name or exact location until now. And its location and arrangement of terrain features, roadways, cities and available water sources are optimal. We can use High Order Spells and Conjuration through Cooperative Magic from multiple Sorcerers to create the War Stadium... and perhaps some of this Earth Magic as well... a combined effort could alter and create all that is needed and wanted much quicker than building it.... and if done correctly and backed with enough power, can be as permanent as a 'built' structure."  Realmer turns to Xorit, his plate nearly empty, he moves towards the buffet cart yet again.  "Bannerlord; you wanted a private audience, now is the time. There is a Very-fast-time Realm I want to visit, but it is in the other Tower... so join me and talk... while I eat and see if I can get something to work."  He chuckles as he fills his plate for the fourth time, this time heaping it with even more food than before, balancing it all perfectly with his left hand.  "Fort; 6 steps down from the top. If I can't find something suitable I will Conjure up what I want to suit my needs. Come find me once everyone reports in and we know more. And bring Tesa, Bob, Dorna and Gangdis... we need to sort out a few things."   Then Realmer grabs a large slice of melon with his right hand and eats it expertly as he walks next to Xorit and urges his Power of the Spiral to alter the time flow in the room in question to the same as the time flow of the Realm on the Stair he is thinking of.  [I hope that works. lol]
*'''Michael James Watson'''
“Well, Windlord. Before the battle with Krelet lets clarify things between us. Your rulership in the south is secure. Do you intend to maintain Kalota? Hagalta maintained his Clan, and I recommend you do as well. Your new people will never be as loyal as your Odaraxta clan. And you'll have a grateful Bannerlord. As Bannerlord I am your superior. As Windlord you are mine. I am sure we will manage the differences.“   “As Bannerlord, I ask my Windlord to allow the Ordaxta to relocate from the west wind to the South Wind. I have spoken to the Bannerlord of the Drixti. They are a minor Banner but a proud one. That their lord Azdaxtri asks my help says much. He hated Emilisa though he served her, His clans are spread out across the Ojak and the Kaski. It was allowed that their lands be taken and their people killed so the Windlord of the South could command Orc Clans and Fey Warbands. The Centaur out there has led hunts of Drixti adask as sport. Lord Azdaxtri says he will swear his clans to Trualta if you renew the Orc and Fey Hunts. He will swear his Banner to me, after I swear mine to the South Wind, if you ban the hunts. The Orc Clans have swarmed to Krelet. You seem to have the Fey, but the Orcs will never serve you unless you allow the Adask hunts.“   “As Bannerlord I tell my Clan of Kolata that Odaraxta will be shielding the Drixti from reprisals of the Orc Clans and the Fey Swirls regardless of the ruling of the South Wind. We, the Clans of the Oradraxta will eliminate the Clan Shaxta. No claimant will be allowed. The Clan Sword of the Shaxta will be buried, never to be wielded again. Shaxta will be given an opportunity to leave their clans but once battle is engaged, no quarter will be given. Anyone wearing the Shaxta badge will be hunted across the 4 winds.”  “Thirsty?”
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Yes, I am thirsty. And yes, I do intend to maintain Leadership of Clan Kalota for the foreseeable future. As Kalota War Chief, I accepted you as Bannerlord of the Odaraxta and followed your Leadership in Clan matters; and I will continue to do so. Word will be sent to Datarik to send Kalota Warriors to the aid of the Clans of Drixti.”  Arriving on the sixth step down from the top, Realmer opens the door to a large comfortable looking sitting room / office. There any many types of comfortable looking sitting furniture about the room; chairs, couches, sofas, divans, etc., as well as many types of small tables; side, end, coffee, etc.  There are two small bars, one to either side of the room; one stocked with liquor and mixers, the other with lagers, ales, stouts, pilsners and other brews. Each with appropriate drinking vessels and accessories.  Nearly centered in the room is a large table/desk with a highbacked chair behind it and several shorter backed chairs gathered around and near to it. There is a large fireplace behind on the backwall with large hearth and wide mantel.  There are sconces high on the walls at even intervals with glowing orbs of dim light in them; they all brighten some as the door opens.  There are two doors in the backwall, one on either side of the fireplace; the one on the left appears to lead into a kitchen or lab area, the one on the right leads to a sleeping chamber.  Realmer enters the large sitting room with Xorit and closes the door behind them. He offers Xorit a choice of chairs with a silent gesture of his hand then nods again and continues.  “Now as the Wind Lord of the South, I tell you your position as the Odaraxta Bannerlord is secure. I accept your Banner and do immediately Outlaw any Adask Hunts in the South, punishable by death. I will order Troops from the South to assist in the protection of the Drixti and those Fey now loyal to me that once participate in the Hunts, will be in charge of the enforcement of my new Decree and will Hunt those that hunt the Adask. I gladly grant your request to relocate the Odaraxta to the South; we can work out the details of relocating or rebuilding the Odaraxta Main Clan Halls in a Realm off the South Stair, if it is feasible. And as both War Chief and Wind Lord, I support the need to eradicate Clan Shaxta and option for Shaxta Clan Members to break ties with Shaxta and join other Clans of the Odaraxta before the official hostilities begin. And if the Shaxta Clan Blade can be destroyed, perhaps that would be better than burying it. Also, once the Clans arrive in the South, I will be keeping the majority of Kalota's Warriors near me, as the Wind Lord's Elite Warriors and Personal Guards with Datarik being Second in Command of Kalota.”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"I hear there is a process for trading stairs between towers. A ritual. As for destroying the sword, its a ritual to bury it. If it was destroyed, there would be people who believed it hidden. But buried, those who sense such magic would know it was there and the natami of the clan was buried in disgrace."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer nods his head and considers both pieces of information.  "If burying the Clan Blade is best, then so be it; I will not interfere with time honored and time tested tradition and ritual. As the South Wind, I would like to be a part of that Ritual; with your permission, Bannerlord. However, I will need to learn the Ritual first. And if I don't already possess the knowledge via my Attunement, I would also like to learn the Ritual of Stair Transferal as soon as possible. I may have to find someone to teach it to me.”  Realmer drifts off into thought for a couple of moments, then suddenly snaps back to the now and pulls out a pouch that should look familiar to Xorit; he opens it to show its contents: it's filled with Ice Orc Marbles.  “You gave these to me when we first met. You named them and told me how to activate them, but you never explained exactly what they do, what an Ice Orc is or how powerful they are. I have never used them, but may have need in the near future... considering all that is already happening.” He chuckles.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Xorit smiles, "You still have those? Imagine.. Having heard what Fortunadus in there said I think they may be earthpower, like the Stone Trolls. Ice given life and form. I am not a wizard and the ones in my clans, this is the height of their art and craft. As for the ritual; Dig a hole, drop the blade in, think of it no more. Though, they have been dug up after enough time passes so people forget the clan. Magic items are valuable. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"They are valuable indeed; which is why I have been loathe to use these until I knew more about them. A good General should all of his assets to the best of his ability. Foreknowledge is the key to effective planning.  Effective planning is the key to a successful battle. Now I am curious, once activated, how long do the Ice Orcs last? Until destroyed or is there a time limit? And what powers or abilities do they possess, if any, other than combat?"  Realmer carefully pours them into the palm of his hand, examining them more closely, feeling them roll around in his hand gracefully.  [BTW, how many marbles are there? You never mentioned and I never asked til now.]
*'''Michael James Watson'''
nineteen
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Xorit says, "when I've used them I generally call them up, give them a mental idea of their goal. usually something within line of sight. Also usually they don't survive the battle. If they do they tend to mill about till they melt. its hard, though not impossible, to redirect them. They will fight if attacked. They won't melt if their goal has not been reached. Many use them as guardians. They place them someplace with the command to attack anyone who attempts some task; open door, open chest, steal sculpture.. cross a line. Ive known some that stood in hot halls for centuries because their order was to guard something no one would touch anyway. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"So, some careful thought and wise choice of words could potentially keep them about indefinitely. And they can be Redirected, but with some difficulty... Hmm, interesting. Thank you, Xorit."  Realmer puts all back inside the pouch, closes it tightly and returns them to the safety of his Robe. As he looks back to Xorit, the look on his face has changed and when he speaks, his tone has changed.  "Xorit; you were one of the first three Adask I met when first learning of the Adask and that I was/am one as well. Hagalta displayed Superiority over me and made every attempt to manipulate me to evoke an emotional or physical response from me... I did not like him from the beginning, and I was still unaware that he was my father at that time. Krelat displayed silent cold contempt for me; threating with his eyes, facial expressions and body language. I disliked him at first glance, despised him by the time that short meeting was over, and after learning of his deeds since, will be happy to end his life personally when the time comes."   "You, however, showed in your facial expressions and body language a sympathy for my plight, and afterwards you stayed behind to apologize for their behavior on behalf of the Adask and your Clan. Then you gave me the Marbles; a valuable magic item... without evening knowing me, and then told me to be careful. Then years later we met again at the Great Arch and again you showed me kindness where others only sneered. You worked with me when I was Amber's Ambassador in Blomsia. You supported my Claim to Clan Kalota, after first informing me about it. And you have supported me in my Claim on the South Wind and South Stair. So now, Xorit, I ask of you, as Relmopator, what can I do for you that is within my powers to give? Either personally or otherwise."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"You offer me something I have thought of many times in the course of my life. I had to suffer though Hagalta's warfares. I've had to carefully protect my clan despite a series of cruel banner lords. Adask are not the kindest of races, though it is possible for them to be individually kind. You arrived at the time of the Reunion of the Odaraxta. Hagalta challenged for the Banner and he might have claimed it. I had to straddle Hagalta and Krelat. In honesty, when i saw you, saw you were Adask, saw that you were an Amberite..I hoped you would destroy one of my two foes so I could concentrate on the other. You destroyed both, for Hagalta is gone and his path does not lead to Adagalasck anymore, and Krelet, he will beg for death in time. I will see his bones carved into dice so that when three eyes are thrown at Hazard his soul will howl in hell. What bones remain will be buried with the Shaxta clan blade. So the Banner of the Odaraxta is mine.. A new Reunion looms ahead of me and I will seize fortune to win it. There are 5 Adask Banners in Adagalasck. The Drixti have already said for their protection they will swear to me. The Trexcat, Gaxag, and the Solox know what is ahead."  He steps back taking a drink before going on.  "In time you will make many wars.. If the opportunity comes, the Adask of Adagalack, all 5 banners, under one lord, one....king...should have a Stair of their own. Clitford is conflicted. THe island ones are small and distant. Coimbia and Lubia have been part of the South Wind many times in the history of the stairs. I would not ask you to make war for them. Just consider what the race of the Adask could do, if they need not be the foot soldier and slaves of other warrior kings?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He raises his hand at Realmer's gaze, "But..that is too much for today...isn't it? So...I ask something less world shaking. I, my 5 senior commanders, 2 from the other 3 Clans. 3 Commanders of the Drixti.....Would it be possible to see them enrolled at Rasak?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer listens intently and then begins working out the logistics of his initial request, the look on his face distant but positive.  When Xorit breaks Realmer's attention with his gesture and asks for what he thinks is more reasonable, more possible... Realmer sighs and hangs his head, looking slightly defeated.  "I am sorry, Xorit, I don't think that will be possible; I have fallen out of favor with King Random of Amber and his Lord Marshall, Benedict, and believe it will be a long time before I will be granted favors of that magnitude again. In fact, long enough, by my estimation, that your initial request of a Stair for and a 'king' of the Adask People may happen first. But I will 'check the temperature of the waters' to see how I stand before making any promises. However, I will support you, as the Wind Lord of the South, in your Claim of.... Banner Overlord over all Banners of the Adask of Adagalasck... so keep thinking on and planning for an Adask Stair. Perhaps Clitford, since it's under conflict, perhaps the Banners of the Adask can bring some much needed stability... but we will talk further of location and logistics soon enough. Anything else I might be able to do for you, in the interim?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Overlord?.....The 5 adask Banners have never unified...What they need...is an...Overlord...."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Yes, perhaps they do indeed. And perhaps the Title of 'Overlord' is a perfect fit; king sounds too pompous... as would most royal titles. Are you thinking that one of the Bannerlords of the five Banners would serve as Overlord? Or would it be a position separate from the Bannerlords?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Xorit says, "Do you think Emperor Overlord a bit much? How about Worshipful Master Overlord? "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer smiles and laughs, shaking his head.  "I like the 'worshipful' one. But how about Ordained Saint Overlord?"  He laughs harder then says:  "Enlightened Overlord Master?"  He laughs hard enough to bring tears to his eyes.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Xorit thinks, smiles, "If I can't sell Sir, to my wives, i doubt Enlightened Overlord Master will go over wit the clans."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Overlord of the Adask Banners. Settled. Any other matters you need or want to discuss? Any minor favors I could grant? Any suggestions to help me as the new Wind Lord?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Kill the Centaur. I know you won't but some day I will want to say I so advised you. If you think getting my commanders to Rasak a problem...in the last couple days I have seen Your friends do impressive earth magic beyond any wizard of the Adask. Would getting a few of my wizards instructed be easier?”
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Opasen Vrag? Hmm... not sure how to take that. You mentioned her participating in the Adask Hunts under Emiliesa's Rule... are you sure it is not just rumors? I would need to know more before considering it."  "Now, getting some of your Adask wizards instructed in Earth Magic might indeed be easier, and a good way for me to learn it as well. I will talk it over with Fort and Venki. And I will quietly investigate Opasen as well."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Yes, I know its not rumor. When you see her trophy hall you will too. An Adask banner with thousands of years of honor and respect, battles won and lost, honored elders and blessed mothers has less then 5000 souls in 7 clans, and their Bannerlord is willing to sell his people into slavery in order to assure they live and that their sword is not buried? Amberite, do you think I lie?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Of course I don't think you lie, Xorit. But I like to gather my information and check the facts, before making such decisions and actions as killing someone when not engaged in combat. I will investigate further, I will make a decision."  He sighs, shakes his head then sighs again.  "My first internal matter, and it's a big one. Thank you for bringing it to my attention, Bannerlord."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"I won't kill her. Neither will you. But when I speak to the Adask of the south, I will be able to tell them I told you to kill her. After that.." He smiles walks out the stair door
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer ponders on Xorit's words for a few minutes, finishing his plate of food. Then says to himself, but aloud:  "That went well. Now that I've got a fast time room, might as well use it. So.... what first...? Hang and modify some Spells? Some Trump calls...? Some brandy.... hmmm... " 
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.''' 
After Xorit exits the large, comfy sitting room / office within the Tower of the Spiral, Realmer gets busy. He intends to take advantage of the Fast Time Flow effect of the room to get many needed things done as he knows there will be many demands on his time. First he gets a snifter and some brandy from the Liquor Bar then moves to the table/desk in the center of the room and pours until the snifter is half full. Then he pulls out his Magical Dinner Ware, the full set, and taps each to fill them. He debates whether Trump calls should take priority over Spell Maintenance; and as he ponders this, he pulls his King Random Deck from the left sleeve of his Robe, and sets it on the desk next to the bottle and snifter, then withdraws his Spell Book from a large side pocket on his right just above the beltline. He also withdraws an Uhrula cigar from a small pocket near the left breast in his Robe and sets it with the other things on the desk. He sits in the highbacked padded armed chair behind the desk then reaches for the snifter and takes a drink, savoring the amber colored liquor.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
While Realmer savors the flavor of the brandy, he considers all factors then makes a Command Decision; to firstly take the time to do some much needed, and lengthy, Spell Maintenance. He drops a few currently Hung Spells, Hangs New Spells to replace them as well as replacing the Spells he had used recently. Then he modifies a few currently Hung Spells; most notably he renames the Target of three of those Spells to specifically affect Emilisa Codwallow, and one to Opasen Vrag. He also takes this time to do some Low Order Spell Maintenance as well. [Running Sheet has current updated Spell List as of this Post]  While working on his Spells, Realmer picked at the meal on his Magical Dinnerware between Spells. And were it not for his Advanced knowledge of Sorcery, the process would have taken a full day or more to accomplish, but instead took much less time... even less still taking into account the Fast Time Flow of the room. Realmer, being the 'bookworm mage' that he is, takes the time to double-check all of his Frameworks, including Artifacts, one last time; he double-checks each Spell present and makes any necessary adjustments until he is satisfied, then he moves on to the next Spell... still picking at his meal. Once satisfied that all is set with his Arsenal of Spells, Realmer turns to the remainder of his meal, the dessert, and his snifter of brandy which he lifts to his lips, drinks and enjoys.  Realmer takes up the dessert fork and samples the unknown pastry upon the dessert plate. He finds it quite tasty and as he is about to put another bite into his mouth, he feels a slight sensation of a Trump contact; considering recent events, he guardedly opens the contact, and is ready for an assault; either Psychic or verbal, depending upon the caller.  "Who calls?" he asks in a neutral tone as the contact is made and an unfamiliar female face is before him. His face shows curiosity and wariness.