Editing Volume Two: The Adask War Wizard (section)

====<big>Adledross: Forward Base, Growing Crops and Freemason Apprentices</big>====


*'''Michael James Watson'''
Outside the business of establishing the forward base is in process. Camps are well set up though not near the farm itself and in the distance the Reen are settling in their own camps nearly over a far hill. On a far hill to the south Alex can be seen drilling cavalry. Some amount of unit drill is going on as well.  
*A trooper, Gusser, a Kashfan, approaches as the people from the depth exit the house.  
*"Commander. The camp is well on the way to being established. There has been an odd development which is why the camp is so far from the structures. The fields for several hundred acres around here are planted. I come from a rural region of Kashfa and its clear that crops are in the ground and began growing rapidly once the group of you entered the building. Corn mostly, but vegetables as well, hundreds of acres. I've coordinated with Traxton and he told me to manage finding farmers among our troops. Not an easy task you might imagine since most of us joined the military to avoid farming. The Drtida seem well suited to it and if possible id like as many transferred here as possible to look over things. In the week you have been in the house we have seen 2 months worth of growth. Turn over could be incredible.”  
*One of the masons, Jach says, "That's my cornfield!!! What the hell is it doing next to that... hopping fuck that's a big smoke house!.. Hey, Richard, that's your stable barn isn't it?"  
*Richard looks over, "Well, yes, that's the breeding barn.. and that smokehouse is like the ones...hey...it is one of the ones from over at Crestview Farms...great smoked pig. I sell them feed..."   *One of the others says,"Ya know, Jach, that garden over their looks like Millie's. She does a lot of cucs and broc. and mixed greens, doesn't she?"  
*One of the masons looks to Fort, "Great Fortunadas was it your desire that such of our farms were brought here for you?"  
*Fort chuckles, "This will get old quick.....Listen up you schmucks...you and your generations have been mucking about mining a creature far beyond any of your imaginings. And hes an asshole. Now, lets get some things straight before we step off this porch...first, That guy over there is Commander Relmopator and I'm his number two. Just like on a ship. You call him Commander, and for the sake of my sanity call me Fort. Like a... Fort. Neither of us planned to bring you or any of this stuff here. We are in a training ground of a particular nature and you idiots trying to summon me using a badly written tome is what made the masters of the training ground pull you out of your world and drop you here. Explaining the hows and whys will take months we don't have. Now, you will make your selves useful farming here. From time to time I'm going to take each of you aside and we will find out what you know, think, and learned from that creature. As you heard, he is a Dufiro of Rage and War. So, let call him Reggie.”  
*Looking at Realmer, "That'll piss him off eventually."  
*Turning back to the masons, "You all have spent your lives reading a collection of mystical, occult, esoteric, and largely crap books seeking after enlightenment and power. Well, you fuckers got it and it really isn't what you think. You will learn of Amber and Chaos from me. You will see honest to Martha magic around here. I'll be twisting your brains like a rag trying to figure out Reggie's true name and when I do I'll..."  
*One of the mason shrieks, "Hey!!! that's a Dragon!!! Is that a dragon!!!????!?!. "  
*Fort stumbles verbally, "I'm slipping. Curious..Yes, bucky, that's a dragon. There are a thousand of the brutes beyond those hills and they all have riders and they are, at the time being, our friends. I imagine all of you will get to ride them eventually. "  
*That last makes the already freaked masons eyes widen.  Fort lowers his voice and when he speak the masons turn to rapt attention. Only higher psyche keeps Realmer, Carston and crew from doing so as well but the draw is there.  
*"You will be useful. But you should know this is a warzone. The reason we are here is to train in warfare particular to OUR regions. You will see things undreamed of in Crowley's nightmares. And its your own damn fault you are here. You will answer our questions, farm your fields, listen to our commanders and in a year from now you will be back in Dakota talking to your wives and shrinks about the strange dream you had in elf hill. Don't piss me off.. Now, with the Commander's permission, and I imagine he will have something to say too, you will listen to trooper Gusser here and coordinate the farm with him. Gusser, if one of these schmucks seems to have a better handle on these farms, we will talk about releasing you to the ranks so you can get the training you came here for.. Its not like they came here to fight orcs and wereriders..."  
*Fort looks to Realmer, "Commander?"  

*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
When they first come out from the depths and Trooper Gusser begins explaining, Realmer begins looking about and then says to Gusser, "A week? Only felt like a couple of hours."
Realmer looks to each new part of the farmstead as the Masons begin pointing them out and figuring out where they came from. As Fort begins his oration, Realmer watches the Masons reactions carefully, but studies Fort as well. Realmer chuckles at the nickname given the Dufiro of Rage and War.
Realmer also finds it curious that Fort 'slipped' in his verbal barrage; Realmer has never seen Fort at a loss for words or tripped up in a conversation or oration. Realmer watches with great interest as Fort impresses his Psyche upon the Masons.
"Thank you, Sub-Commander Fort." Realmer nods slightly to Fort and steps forward to address the Masons. "I am Commander Relmopator of the Amberite Army. I command the 1st Cohort, which means I command the entire army. There are four other Cohort Commanders in the Amberite Army..." he points to Carston, "You have already met Commander Carston of the 5th Cohort, and you will meet others. There are also Commanders within the Dragon Rider Army, and you may meet them too... they are our allies and they also follow my command. As of now, ALL of you are a part of the Amberite Army. You are now Loyal to the Amberite Army; to me and my Commanders, my Sub-Commanders, Sergeants and Troopers. And you WILL follow any order given to you without question and without hesitation."
Realmer takes the time to look intently into each mans' eyes, making sure they understand, but not requiring them to speak. Then he continues.
"We are not Gods or Devils. Nor Angels or Demons. We are not to be Worshiped or Revered. We are not of the Heavens or the Hells... though you will hear the term 'demon', it does not mean what you think it does. You are going to see many strange things, strange beings, monsters... but I cannot... I WILL NOT, have you freaking out and soiling your breeches every time you see something fantastical or nightmarish. You must learn, and learn quickly, how to take it all in stride. For example.."
Realmer calls Bob, probably circling on high as a white raven, to fly down and shapeshift into his true beholder form. He does not wait for the shock to wear off.
"This is Bob, my Familiar. He is a Shape Shifter... and so am I."
Realmer Shape Shifts into his Chaos Form and says, "As are others here." Then he Shifts back to his Human/Adask Form and produces a Cantrip Fire Finger to focus their attention. "And I am also a High Order Sorcerer, amongst other Low Order magical titles. Get used to strange things. Follow orders. Be helpful and informative. Never betray us. NEVER. We are your only chance of getting back to your homes. We are the only military force on this world that seems to be guided by a moral compass. Lucky for you we found you first."
Realmer gives them a moment to let things sink in, then asks, "Are there any questions? Do any of you wish to say anything?" His tone is non-threatening as is his facial expression and body language. He is being sincere with them... he wants to know if they have something to ask or say.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The senior mason, the first one woken, Hector, looks at his fellows and back and Fort, the Realmer.
"Ah...Will we be learning magic?"
Fort laughs. "Trust an occultist. You wingnuts have been talking to a major Dufiro for several generations and he has been stringing you along offering you powers until he found 12 of you gullible enough to attempt to perform a summoning which you were stupidly unready for in the hope its force would crack the inscription he was bound to, freeing him. He even got you to try summoning me just as a bonus for him. Do you realize now that if the spell had not been interrupted, bringing you here, that it would have freed that beast in North Dakota, where he would have eaten your hearts in front of you then probably have hunted down everyone he had ever met among you and eaten them, and their wives, and kids, if not take out his rage on your whole town? That your efforts to learn the secrets of the universe could have gotten everyone you knew devoured, if not everyone on your whole frekkin world? You want to learn magic? OK Here..."
He steps up to Hector, grab his head Slams him with his psyche, making Hector emit a little squeak and go knee weak..
Fort says..."Know this......Learn This: Kuwa safi!" He says the word hard and loud. "SAY IT!!!!!!"
Hector mumbles "Kuwas safi" Nothing happens
Fort yells, " YOU WANTED TO SUMMON DUFIRO AND YOU CAN'T PRECISELY SAY THE CHARM FOR A CANTRIP? KUWA SAFI!!!! SAY IT!!!!"
He whimperingly says "Kuwa safi" The area on his outfit is suddenly clean as the clean Cantrip activates.
Fort chuckles.."There, You are a wizard now. Go teach them..When every one of you knuckleheads can cast the Clean Cantrip Realmer and I will decide which Cantrip you can learn next...Friggin occultists....Discordian ones at that..."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"The learning of Magics is a must in this army... but for you men, it will be a reward for hard work, cooperation, a lack of headaches for us, and loyalty. You can start by proving your worth as farmers. You all know these lands and what they hold and grow; so then, tend to them, teach the Drtida what you know about your lands and crops. Prove to us that you can handle this farmstead so that Trooper Gusser can get back to training and away from farming. Dismissed."
"Gusser; once you're sure one of these men can run this farmstead at least as well as you can, hand over the responsibility to that man but stay in the area to observe their work. Dismissed."
"Fort... you seem agitated and off your game... you look like you need some rest. Go get some rack time... at least 6 hours. That is an order, by the way. But not in the house... not yet. I want to see if the time difference is still in play."
"Bob, contact Tesa and tell her to bring the Drtida here to the Farmstead as soon as possible. Fort... why you still standing there? Go get some sleep."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort nods, "Its not sleep I need but your order will be obeyed. Let us step aside a moment first."
Once the others have dispersed he speaks softly.
"I must be honest.. mostly honest.. The Adledross have dropped a real crapstorm on us and its my fault.. I have no idea what the usual rules are for this place but as you noted thee and me are probably not the normal candidates. It might be best if I separated from the core here and drew my attackers away. I have no doubt I can fight this Dufiro. But I'm not sure how messy it will be for others. Sure, if they get splattered they will wake up the next day, but splattered is splattered. "
he paces a bit,, "However, my deal with Benedict, hence the Adledross, is that I would not uses powers unusual to others.. there are clerics among those in the camp north of us so I felt free to use my clericism...We had cavalry so Alex could summon his horse..The Adledross have allowed occult ritualists here who were able enough at dealing with Dufiro to get one to teach them how to summon me..so I no longer feel like I can't call a few friends..Say, a Masoja of Knowledge to do a little research into spindling arm's true name. and a Masoja of strength in case we have to box him around. Say...an Avasa of growth to hang around the farm..a dozen Combat Spirits and a few Cleanliness Spirits? I know a Elemental of Scents that is a hell of a tracker on his ways to being a spirit of blending that would love to help me...What do you think?'
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer nods his head slightly as he strokes his chin with his left hand, a deeply thoughtful look on his face, his right hand rests on the hilt of his broadsword strapped to his right hip for a left handed draw... a habit Realmer has picked up since acquiring it.
"What do I think?" He repeats the question slowly. "Well... you've given me much to think about." He pauses and looks thoughtful and taps his chin with his index finger.
"Firstly... I don't think you separating from the rest of us is truly best now. Especially since Reggie of the Rage and War said he would be bringing an army of his own with him... I think we're all in this together now. I believe the opportunity for you to fight and defeat him one on one may have passed us by and I take blame for that. Had I not made the verbal deal for his and our safety, you could have fought him one on one."
Realmer continues to stroke his chin, still looking thoughtful, but now pacing slightly.
"Secondly... I do agree that this whole mess is your fault. Had you not summoned Dufiro to help you and Tesa defeat the Treba Cursis Horsemen I am fairly sure all of this" he pulls his hand from his chin and points to the buildings and crops and Masons, "would not be happening." His hand returns to his chin, index finger tapping his lower lip. "The Adledross would not have allowed the Ritualists' Magic to work and brought them and all of this here, had you not broken the rules first. So, with that in mind, thirdly; I am torn about you summoning more Dufiro to help us."
"I agree with your logic regarding your use of Clericism, and the summoning of mounts, but I do not agree, fully agree, with your logic concerning the summoning of more Dufiro. It was the summoning of Dufiro that started this and set the chain of events into motion. I am concerned that you summoning more Dufiro will only make matters worse and make your... our punishment worse. And as the Commander of the Army and the one ultimately responsible for all these men and women... I'm have to factor that and them in."
Realmer sighs and pulls his hand from his chin and holds his index finger up and shakes it a bit and says, "But the 'not commander' part of me... the Sorcerer, the Adventurer... that part likes the idea of bringing in more help for the farmstead to supply the Army for our year here and maybe establish trade with those who have found the caches and want to trade... and also the bringing in of extra muscle...."
He trails off and is silent for a minute or so as he taps is lower lip and paces, his right hand gripping the hilt of his broadsword, tightens and loosens as he paces and thinks.
"I'll give you my final decision after you wake... but for now, I think you should not summon the Combat Spirits and maybe not the Masoja of Strength either... but the others I think would be acceptable... hopefully not enough to upset the balance with the Adledross and cause us more headaches. But do nothing until you have rested and then ask me again, before you summon anything."
Realmer looks to the house. "I wonder of the Time Flow Effect is effecting the entire house, or just the lowest level... the part below where you found the thin metal plates embedded in the walls...." He trails off again as he stares at the house.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort nods...
"OK....Counter-proposal... I'll grant that this is my fault...I'm off my game.. And seeing the Treba Cursis hunting Tesa kinda...well, whats done is done. You are probably right about me summoning friendly Dufiro... and frankly its only one of the spirits I really need to see. But....There are three elemental tomes, 2 spirit tomes, a Masoja of Knowledge, and who knows what else inside there. They let these thing be brought here so using them should be fair game. and who knows what might be inside. Still, summoning isn't something to be done lightly.. I think I need the MoK...I have to find Reggie's name to bind him. Killing him over and over will just piss him off and he already has a temper..Reggie got these books to them in North Dakota so they are probably allies of his. So I have the summoning and binding tome for a Dufiro who may know Reggie's name. I can summon him, twist him about, and see if he'll dance"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Hmm... alright... we'll start with the Masoja of Knowledge, then decide where to go from there. Since the tomes are here, we should use them... it would be a tactical error not to."
Realmer still seems somewhat lost in thought as he stares at the house, then glances to the tomes recovered so far sitting on the porch.
"I changed my mind. Forget sleep... let's go look the house over again. I want a few men around the house keeping track of the amount of time we spend inside... I really want to figure out the Time Difference and what it is effecting. And I am sure there is more to find in there... a second look might be worth the time."
Realmer looks to Fort and raises an eyebrow and cracks a slight smile.
"And we thought this would be a straight forward war of combat and tactics, survival and death..." Realmer snort laughs and winks at Fort.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort chuckles... "Being short I was never much of a front rank guy in the wars...those big shields....looks messy as heck"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I was involved in two wars back around my Adventuring Years... both were messy. Both times I stayed as far from the front lines as circumstances and my spells' ranges allowed... which in some cases was far to close for my liking. Which is the main reason why I thought I should attend NP and learn how to handle myself when magic was not an option. But it seems that the Magic has followed me... followed us, here."
He chuckles. "Well, since it seems the Gates of Magic have been flung open, we should use our skills and knowledge to their utmost. So... what are your thoughts on the house? Is the Time Difference effecting the whole house... or just parts? Since it is moving slower it could be useful for storage of foods; less time to rot... but we must be careful how much time we spend in there, so as not to lose the time we have out here to prepare for Reggie and Crew."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"The stairs to the bottom passed through numerous layers of stacked sheets of metal. Some I didn't recognize and its been a long time since that happened... My guess is those had temporal implications... Curious.. That might mean that the upper levels, above ground, are time current. And if we wish to use the summoning circles below we loose time relative to the army for using the available magical hardware below. Since we have these books I think they are daring us to loose a month below to summoning some relatively powerless creatures.. Or more if I want the MoK..."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well, let's go test the theory by checking out the house above ground first, then return back outside to check the time. Then the basement in the same way, then lastly the Chamber."
Realmer calls over a few Troopers with a Hand Sign then verbally tells them to watch the house and keep track of the time that Fort and he are in there.
"Come with me Fort" Realmer says as he steps onto the porch. "Let's spend about 5 minutes looking though the house again, just a quick walk through, then check in out here."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
After a walk around the first floor for a few moments fort get distracted by the office. Looking through the books he starts taking down several and stacking them on the desk. As he walks along the shelves, collecting books he starts looking at the shelves. tsking...
Stepping back . Looking.
Slowly walking back to the desk he takes the books he had withdrawn and puts them back in the shelves, turning his head slightly.
"There is something.....about the shelves.. the library.. it covers three walls. There are no curios...but there are.. no..sections.... Its an occult library but its also a history library with non-occult topics...For a masonic lodge there should be a section on Masonry but they are spread out.. odd..."
He sits at the desk....
"Hector is tax attorney and there are a couple current books on tax law on the desk...papers.. no computer...There is plenty of tech in the other rooms..refrigerators..clock radios, flatscreens, microwaves, laptops in the bedrooms.. but there is nothing electronic in here...Weird.....no books of tax law in the shelves....."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer watches Fort and his interest in the books. He looks at the shelves/bookcases and watches as Fort puts the books back, wondering as well about the chaotic placement of the books. He looks at them for a pattern... he looks at the shelves/cases themselves for anything unusual.
"The fact that the books are not organized is odd, but not necessarily a puzzle or clue... I have known wizards who have a 'disorganized' system that works for them. But... the first thing that comes to mind is another hidden library; perhaps accessed through this room. Next is; this could be a powerful illusion and this is not what the room looks like at all. Another thought... this could be staged just to make us waste time."
"And speaking of time... let's move outside for a minute; it's been about 5 minutes since we came in... let's check how much time passed outside. Tell me your thoughts as we walk."
Realmer motions for Fort to get up and follow him. He has the feeling that Fort is somehow being compelled to be curious about this place and is worried he may waste too much time chasing false trails.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
fort walks behind you outside. He is mumbling softly, just below the threshold of hearing. Troops are going about their work. One of them approaches, "Was there something else Commander?"
In the distance Alex is ridding over with 3 cavalry men at a gallop.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Just one thing; how long were we gone?" Realmer asks as he watches Alex and the three men approaching on horseback.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The trooper says, "A few minutes.. I was just coming to tell you we have riders coming in"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Excellent. Thank you and carry on."
Realmer turns to Fort and says, "Looks like Alex is in a hurry."
Realmer looks back towards the approaching horsemen and tries to get a better look at those with him. He will Shape Shift his eyes to those of a vulture to get a better view.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort-'Well, I've never seen Alex casually stroll anywhere."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer chuckles and continues to watch their approach
*'''Michael James Watson'''
As the 4 horseman ride up Alex salutes.
"Commander, my Reen counterpart has informed me, that there is a force troops coming this way. 4 or so days out. Permission to take dragonback and scout them for composition and intentions."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort turns and walks back into the house.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Granted. Report back as soon as you can. Carry on."
Realmer turns and follows Fort. "Hold up, Fort. I'm still suspicious of this house and contents... especially since you seem to have an extremely high level of curiosity about it and its contents. You seem distracted and off your mark. It started when we arrived up there and saw the building down here and as the farmstead grows, so does you lack of focus."
Realmer pauses and stops before they enter the house again.
"Do you see it as well? Or am I being paranoid and making the wrong connections and assumptions?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort-"Realmer, my...lets call it.. friend, being suspicious seems to be a sound trait for Amberites.. As for me, I am off my game because its been 10 years since I had my drug of choice and I'm dealing with withdrawal from a drug that is fairly uncompromising. But I'm going to risk pissing off the Adledross further to get a friend to bring me a stash.. As for my curiosity, that's my nature. never met any thrice crowned bards I suspect, have you? Well, Arlo maybe... there is talk of getting him a trio of crowns if it won't piss off your king... "
Walking into the library, he looks around... "its been an age since I was intellectually challenged. OK, its a library...and a suicide note."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Treatise on White Magic, Hitler and the Occult, Initiation Into Hermetics, Secretum Secretorum Then...a masonic book...Illuminati secrets, Satanic Bible. another masonic book...Theatrum Chemicum, Herodotus, Early history of Rome, a masonic book...The works of Alister Crowley, Encyclopedia of Gypsy Magic, Story of Edger Cayce." Fort smiles, speaks with a bit of a chuckle.."Trained by the Great White Lodge, Exposing Witchcraft in the Church, Moonchild, Esoteric Orders and their works, Nostradamus, Tarot Magik! Its not a library, exactly....."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Hmmmmm.... not a library as you and I might know it.... but there is an odd design to it... what they are about... the man is searching for power and looking to every source he can find."
Realmer looks again at the order of the books, specifically where the Masonic Books are and what they seem to be about.
"Maybe there is a reason for the order of the books..." Realmer looks at more books... he looks at the covers not for their titles but the color or design and looks for a pattern. He looks for any books that appear to be more worn than others, or more used. He looks for markers sticking out to the books or makings on the books that don't seem to belong.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort smiles. "Its the easy things I trip over.." He taps the books in the upper corner one at a time. "Treatise on White Magic, Hitler and the Occult, Initiation Into Hermetics, Secretum Secretorum. T.H.I.S"
"This is the Testament of our Order; Spaces for one masonic book. new paragraph for three masonic books."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well, look at that!" Realmer exclaims. "That would have taken me a while to spot too. Well then, let's see what has been spelled out for us."
Realmer reads the first letter of each title of each book, moving top left to right, then down, just like reading a page. He considers each book case it's own page.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Its the simple things....it's a flaw with us sorcerers. Precision. Detail. Weights to the grain of spice. Suspicion. Tension. I once spent an hour searching a mind boggling ornate door for trap, snares, wires, and everything I could figure out to unlock a door. In the end Venki just opened by turning the handle. It's like carston's thief friend opening traps with rocks."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Working over the top row of the library, taking into account single books on masonry and trios of masonic books, there is a message in English.
Fort reads aloud.
"This is the Testament of our Order;
We have fallen into folly. We delved too deep. We found not angles. We found not devils. We found not truth. But we were found. We go to drag our souls free.
The stone of our ancestors speaks treason to God. He binds us to call Great Fortunadas so we may slay him. We must pray the writer of tomes will be victorious.
If you of the thirty second order find this work do my final bidding. Bury the deep chamber. Fill it with excrement and soil. seal it with cement. Break the gate to the falling stair. Do not follow us into folly.
Hector Worshipful Master. '
Fort chuckles in irony.."Writer of Tomes again...sometimes our shadows have better press then we do ourselves. When we get outside I'm going to slap Hector around hard. the rest is all in Dufirosim of various languages and will take awhile to decipher.. Its in a mixture of languages and mixture of encodings... sly bitches...."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer smiles when Fort relates his trap search experience, recalling some of his similar follies in the past... some recent. After reading the message left by Hector Realmer contemplates a moment then says;
"So the 'stone of our ancestors' would be the bound Dufiro, Reggie, who found a way to bind the Masons and summon YOU in order to slay you. My question now is; Why? Why does Reggie want you dead? Is it possible you know Reggie in some way? Or perhaps he is working for someone else... which I think is most likely... but I'm not sure why... my Sorcerer's suspicious nature probably." He winks at Fort.
"You know Dufirosim and Codes, so take the time and figure out the rest of the message. I'm going to check the rest of the house and basement to confirm my theory about the Time Difference only affecting the Chamber Below. And I think I agree with Hector's suggestion; we should bury it, destroy the entrance and seal it. As far as I could tell, all of the tomes were retrieved when we came up so there shouldn't be any need to go back down... unless the other non-magical inscribed markings on the floor are needed. After I make my rounds and check the time I would like to study that Tome you have; the tome on the Masoja of Knowledge. I think it's time I learned the inner workings of Summoning Dufiro."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"I think I'm going to take a hill in view of the camp and summon this MoK. I'll summon a spirit of paper first, a friend, who can drop off my fix. Then I'll summon the MoK for everyone to see me bind the bitch. You can help set up the ritual and get a good education on summoning of them by seeing a hostile binding. Call the lesson 'Why not to bind Dufiro against their will' As for why Reggie has it in for me, that's easy. There is a price on my head among the Dufiro. And That price is paid in powers. My bet is Reggie,, a Masoja of War and rage wants to make the Jump to Masoja of Death, a huge jump. "
Glancing over the book, casually writing out the letters for future decoding, he goes on.
"When we fought the Ravers on Paradox we summoned and bargained with a lot of Dufiro and they allowed us to bind them to ourselves. The Raver were creatures of possession, taking a host, accessing their powers then boating them exponentially. Nearly invulnerable creatures able to channel the Illearth Stone. The Illearth Stone is a stone like the World Stone and other ridiculously powerful shadows of the Jewel of Judgment, far enough removed to not be recognizable as a shade. "
"Well, the Dufiro trade for power. They all knew what we planned to do and that 12 Ravers and the illearth stone meant a lot of free power floating around. There were about 12 of us regularly and another dozen occasionally, and all of us needed something bound into us so the Ravers could not possess us. All of us except Vonnilia who had her own possession issue to protect her, as much as she hated that. We picked 60 Dufiro, all Masoja, and bound them to us, willingly on their part. But hundreds were pissed purple not to be chosen. "
"The battles occurred and they were messy as fuck. Paradox was one huge flat realm like a dozen shadows plopped on a flat earth and it was ravaged north to south, east to west, mountain top to dungeon depth. Billions of the zillion people died, nations torn asunder, cities leveled, usual end of the world stuff. But in the end, we killed all 12. I got 3 Saints of Battle, one for a single one on one battle. Alex, Zat, Geata, Jeremy, Venki, Dolki, Jake & Kirgor, Nur al Din el Musifar, Koob, Borax, Paradune, Galahad, Wendy, Arin & Taroos, Mitcholt, Digan Reltorious and Topatia, Harriet, and even frigging Vomil, all got Saints of Battle. I still think Lop and Hibbit deserve one for a particular encounter. "
" Anyway....once set free the Dufiro we hired were buffed out hard. All were invited to several new races, and they even for the Raver marks like the rest of us did" He rub his forehead revealing a mithril tree implanted in his forehead, an inch tall. It coves over as he removes his hand from his head
"A lot of Dufiro were pissed we turned them down. Especially a few power-mongers among the Death, Rage, War, & Combat races.. So they put prices on our heads. Big ones. And since I was the prime summoner and bargainer, I got the big one. I have long suspected the possessions we experienced might have made us part Dufiro.. guess I was right. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"So... this is not so much about something you did, but moreover something you didn't do. You didn't kill or torture or enslave anyone... you just didn't chose 'them'... and they are angry about it and jealous of what they did not receive."
He pauses and snorts a laugh of disbelief or perhaps disgust.
"They sound like petulant children pouting over another child's new toy... mighty children with deadly powers, all be it... but children none the less... and that makes them even more dangerous, in my opinion."
Realmer thinks on Fort's idea a moment, tapping his lower lip with the forefinger of his left hand as he holds his chin.
"I like your idea about the Summoning of the MoK; a good learning experience for everyone. And if things go wrong, lots of back up on hand and another lesson will be learned. I would still like to study the Tome before you begin."
Realmer reaches towards Fort with his left hand and waits for him to hand over the Tome.
"And you still have a message to decode here before you can do any summoning on yon hilltop."
Once Fort hands over the Tome, Realmer will walk the house and basement, but not the Chamber Below, looking things over for anything odd or useful... keeping track of time while he does so. Then he will go outside and check in with the Troopers set to watch the house and keep track of the time.
Once Realmer is sure only the Chamber Below is affected by the Time Difference, he will speak with Troopers and Commanders in the area and check the progress of the Farmstead, and find out the current disposition of Tesa and the Drtida; specifically if they are on their way and how long before they arrive.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort nods." petulant children pouting over another child's new toy... mighty children with deadly powers,' Ye, that's a good description. Its important to bear that in mind when dealing with them. They are a diverse people and like any diverse people you have greedy one, generous one, altruistic ones, petulant ones. Its a good thing for the universe that the Masoja of Life, Health, Time, vision, & Wisher are almost universally benevolent. Few can manage to be cruel and advance in race to fool the Race Councils in those races. Horrible things have happened when a Masoja of Wisher went bad. Those races tend to get a bit aloof. But Death, War, Rage, Combat, & strength can be as vicious as Koob on a bender. And it important to understand if you intend to deal with them, that advancement is often the most important drive in them. Like a sex drive in mortals, the drive to gain power and privileged to sway a race council can be extremely powerful. Another thing to bear in mind no matter which kind you deal with, is their creation elemental race. These an be essentially unthinking larval stages are powerful too. Earth Elementals, Air Elementals, Fire Elementals, Water Elementals, can mess up a day if used wrong. But as they are used, they gain intelligence. Eventually being brought into the Spirit races. so in dealing with them knowing how they started is vital. My friend Tustrala started as an Air Elemental. he is breezy to this day. Relaxed, casual, flighty at times, but benevolent. Still, he can kick the crap out of you if he wants, literally. He is a Masoja of Cleanliness as well as Knowledge. So he can Clean someone; clean them out of stomach and bowel an bladder in and instant and explosively. That can be distracting to someone trying to bind them against their will. My girl Agdilas, who I have already put a call into, is a blending Spirit, lovely manners.. but she was a Spirit of Rot as well, on purpose no less. So she has her defenses too. I know, I know.. I'm monologuing... Here, take the book. But...and I'm not kidding, don't read aloud. Touch it, read it as best as you can.. Dufiro languages are not effected by the Read Language spell. But many a scholar tried sounding out the ritual and spoke just enough to get the things attention and piss it off. now, back to the library... If you see hector out there, send him in. He and I are going to talk."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer accepts the Tome and slips it under his arm.
"No... your monologuing is informative and useful... especially since I have a deal with three Dufiro to participate in their Mating Ritual, for which I will be compensated for by becoming the caretaker of a Stone and a Fire Elemental until they mature, and the ability to Summon a Dufiro of Combat, I believe it was... for 20 years I think. Anyway, good information since I will be dealing with them once I get out of here and they contact me when their Mating Time arrives. I'll send Hector in after I've finished checking the house. And I will not utter a sound while reading this Tome... might even cast a Silence Spell on myself just to play it safe."
He chuckles as he heads towards the office doorway.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort puts his hand on Realmer's shoulder, 'One more thing..You hired a Dufiro once before. I have heard your terms and I didn't want to say anything till it came closer to the time.. The deal you made with them? Dangerous and inadvisable. They took advantage of you. But they also let themselves in for trouble if you can best them.. The Race Ritual..They expected you to fail your part. And Earth and a fire elemental, can be as dangerous to their user as their foe if you are inexperienced. And I would bet they intended to give you the Calling name for the DoC. that lets you call him but then he is a free agent, able to cause havoc.. When you go to meet them, they expected a sorcerer puffed up in his vanity, thinking he could control what was beyond him.. An inexperienced mage...what you will be when you arrive is a skilled summoner. You are entitled to have two assistants for that kind of ritual. Let me be one and my friend Tusttrala the other. I imagine they will shit at the sight of us. But...it works well for them too and they will make the best of it. They will honor their bargain and deny they ever had bad intentions..."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer stops and turns to Fort when he places his hand on his shoulder. When he is done speaking, Realmer places a hand on his shoulder and looks deeply into his eyes. He sighs deeply and asks:
"So, you think the one who advised me was not as skilled at negotiations with Dufiro as they thought.... or.... do you think I was intentionally ill-advised? Do you think I was lead into a trap?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort purses his lips, "Hard to say not having been there.. But.. Dufiro and those that deal with them work the angles. Intentionally ill-advised? Probably not. Going out of the way to piss an Amberite is never a good plan. Not skilled? They bargained with the name of a Masoja of Combat. if they did it without their permission its all kind of risky. but more likely it was double edged. it could be seen as making a sweet deal with a first timer to encourage a return in the future. Including your participation in a Race Ritual implies that. also, they probably got more then you expected them to, not knowing what they value. A Dufiro spent time in Castle Amber...Even if they did little or nothing that looks good on their record.. I think they gave you a lot at a time when you were an unknown property in Amber and the Dufiro you hired got something in Amber you didn't know he wanted. just my guess. and, make no mistake, your participating the the Ritual, is big juju for the principal. Means they might call on you some day as if you were a long lost uncle.. and... others may not know what you contributed to the ritual, or the Elementals, so they gin good bluffs in future bargains.. it's complicated, tricky, and risky all around"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well then... let me give you something else to think on in your spare time; the details of all that transpired during that negotiation and the names of all involved; Dufiro and Broker... but not my companions, for now. I am suddenly suspicious of the intentions of the one who advised me."
Realmer tells Fort of his visit to the Great Tents at the Fane of Zilla, and the meeting with the Broker and his name, his original deal for the two Dufiro while in the Courts area and their names, the name of the third Dufiro of Blending that joined the negotiations, and the fact that the three named Dufiro are the ones involved in the Ritual. He relates the terms of the Deal in every detail he can recall, including the requested location of the Ritual, his part in the Ritual and the insistence of the signing of names in blood at the end. Realmer is careful not to mention anything that might give away who he was traveling with, but does mention what was advised by that one.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Remind me who he was traveling with.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
actually remind me in general. its been awhile
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
(Traveling with Jurt and Jasra. Jurt advised Realmer on the Dufiro Deal. The Broker was named Calat. The Dufiro of Blending that joined the negotiation was named Kala Kala was female. The Masoja of Combat was female, named Gazil. The Masoja of Guard was male, named Risik. The two Elementals and the MoC will be the offspring of the MoG and MoC... and yes, only Calling Name was given for the MoC offspring.)
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort-'Guard, Combat, Blending....Earth and Fire...Nice.. OK, that makes a bit more sense. Its a power play....I don't know Catal but I know the kind. They bargained for a godfather....Very catholic...Expect the two to use your name in their future bargaining; you know, my friend Relmopator, yes, that's the one, the Amberite..He would be angry if I agreed to those terms.. I think you should include a thousand stratcha stones and more of the oil of Life... The person who advised you is probably hoping that by getting you to accept a deal to their advantage that he can call on them later. If you are in contact with this person it would be worth your time to ask something like, ;oh, hey, did you get what you wanted from Gzil and Risik? They will probably get real nervous that you asked"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer grins from ear to ear. "Oh, I will be in contact with said person after graduation. I was intending to see that person anyway, but now it is a must. I can only hope that the Ritual happens before that visit. Oh, I should also mention, that due to an... call it an 'incident', that occurred within the Courts of Chaos, it was advised that I NOT go to the proposed Site for the Ritual, but instead counter-offer with the Tombs of Amber on Mount Kolvir."
Realmer's eyes narrow and he gets a devious looks about him. "But to be perfectly honest... between you and me.... if I could somehow receive the calling from the Dufiro while I am here..." he gives Fort a sly smile. "I would to haul those Dufiro' here, to this World of War, for their Ritual... somehow I feel that might be a greater honor for Combat and Guard Dufiro than the Tombs. And I would gain several months of experience with the Elementals before I return to Amber and visit... the person who advised me. The look on their face would be...." Realmer smiles with a far away look in his eyes... "worth more than any amount of training or magical knowledge. I would so relish to show the upper hand, to that person, in a way that will not easily be forgotten... but not in a threatening way."
Realmer looks to Fort. "I'm sure you know what I mean." He smiles and then says, "Perhaps I should check out the rest of the house while you riddle over the rest of the message."
Realmer pats Fort on the shoulder and moves to check out the rest of the house then check on the time and what's going on outside the house.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort ""return to Amber and visit....Someone comfortable dealing with Dufiro....A Broker..A Blender, Combat master, and a Guard master walk into a bar, The blender says, its a hell of a mix in here... Vek, Jurt, Despil, Shaz Far, Desri....Not Doria or Yalla...less likely Despil..Shaz is being bounced around by Benedict..Dara isn't in Amber.."
He starts writing the books in order...Playing with numbers and ciphers.
Walking around the house there are many bed rooms with the look of having been recently cleaned. 12 look look lived in but in the way a long tern hotel room does. Few personal mementos. Several changes of clothes. Each room has books on masonry, bibles, not pads.. Each has a single envelop on the pillow.
Walking around he notices that the rooms and halls don't balance. the sizes are not right. 12' square rooms and 20' halls.. There is enclosed space somewhere on the main floor in the middle of 20 or so sleeping rooms, sitting rooms, and music rooms. The music rooms have pianos and each has cabinets that look like they are filled with sheet music. One Music room has a dozen 2'2'4 steel boxes.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
In one of the 12 sleeping rooms with envelopes on the pillows, Realmer will bring up the Pattern and looks through its Lens to check for Magic on anything in the room. If the envelope is not magicked, Realmer will look it over for powders or stains (possible poison?) then open it if he feels safe doing so... he thinks he already knows what it is. He compares the contents of the envelope, the paper itself, with the paper of the note pad.
When Realmer reaches the music room with the 12 identical steel boxes, he once again brings up the Pattern and looks through its Lens searching for Magic in this room in general but specifically on the steel boxes. Realmer will also check the piano in the room to see if there is any sheet music on the stand.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer will also check the wall in the music room that he believes a secret room may be hidden behind. He looks for hidden or secret doors, obvious levers or switches, common hidden varieties of levers or switches, all based on his experience as an Adventurer. If he finds nothing in this music room, he will begin searching each room, hallway, specifically the wall that shares with the 'hidden room'.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
When he opens the envelops he finds a farewell note to a Woman named Gladys. Kiss the kids, sorry I won't bee there kinds of stuff. bank account, life insurance numbers. No magic. The Steel boxes are non-magic as well.
There is music on the is Faust, and Opera in 5 parts by Charles Gounod, to a French libretto.
As he walks among the rooms and halls he sees no secret doors till walking in one long hall he notices a slight discoloration in wallpapers, and examining it finds a wall that looks like it shifts back and to the side,
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer looks it over carefully, checking for traps as best he can; he may not be a 'thief', but he has learned a few things about checking for traps over the years. If he feels it is safe, he will figure out how to open it and do so carefully... ready to 'react' to any 'surprises' within.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The door clicks open and a light goes on. There is a a corridor 40' long and 10' wide.


*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer smiles and wonders if any are loaded, if there is extra ammunition and if it is in here as well, and if gunpowder even works here. He inspects the contents on the room carefully, using his knowledge of firearms gained in NP, then takes down a modern looking black assault rifle from the rack on the left wall, releases the magazine and checks it for ammo. Whether the magazine is loaded or empty, Realmer will put it back in the rifle, clicking it in place. Then he will slide the bolt back part way to see if a round is chambered. If there is a bullet chambered, he will slide the bolt back into place... if not, and the magazine is loaded, he will slide the bolt all the way back and let it go, chambering a round.
If the assault rifle is not loaded, Realmer will search for the appropriate ammo and load it. If he cannot find the appropriate ammo, but finds ammo for another firearm present, he will load it instead.
If Realmer finds no ammo or loaded firearms, he will take the original black assault rifle with him into the office and show it to Fort, making sure to close the secret door behind him.
If Realmer does find any ammo or loaded firearm, he will leave the secret room, closing the secret door behind him, then he will take said loaded firearm outside, step off the porch, point it at the dirt a couple feet away and squeeze the trigger, making sure any 'safety' is off before attempting to fire it. Realmer does not tell anyone what he is doing; this is more than one kind of test.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Going through the collection of looks like a Hodge lodge of mixed civilian weapons and gear. Shotguns. Hunting rifles. Pistols, handguns. There is a variety of ammo. There are a lot of hunting tools and equipment. Some camp gear. Binoculars. There is a lot in cases as well as in racks. It looks organized as if in personal gear.
As he goes through, picking up a civilian non-fetish ar15 it occurs to him some of the groups are fairly old. Some dusty. As he looks some are really old. Single shot bolt action rifles. .22s. Many not just dusty but corroded. Admonishes calling apart. Have ripped and tied together with twine. A Ralph's grocery bag filled with pistol parts and pieces. He realizes these are collections of personal weapons from people who passed away and left their collections to the lodge either in their will of by family's dumping them on them.
Taking the best AR he can find outside he fires off a shot. In moments Carston and two other troopers arrive.
Carston" is there trouble? ". Fort steps out behind you. "So what did you find? "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer smiles and says, "Excellent response time. I've found a cache of firearms and ammo. And apparently, gunpowder works here. Fort, Carston, follow me."
He leads them back into the house and down the hallway to the secret door, then opens it and shows them the room.
"Not sure how the lights are working... some hidden power source we have yet to find. Some of this stuff looks too old to use, but much of it looks to still be useful."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Carston, who has had little interaction with fire arms looks impressed. Fort starts picking up pieces, ratcheting through them showing he is familiar with them...
Fort-"Carston..get. Ah.....Garrick, Devin, Landon,and.... " looking to Realmer thinking. "Jeffry, and Felineah... They are all from Star Fleet. They will have better experience with these. Could be a couple thousand.. I've used these things but I'm not a Total Warrior..oh hell..get Alex..eventually. He is a Total Warrior. Wait..get those idiot occultists in here! This is their stuff. What say you, commander. Have them drag this crap out on the big porch, set up table, sort, clean, categorize this stuff to see what they got?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Sounds like a great idea, Fort. But I still suggest the Star Fleet personnel come as well. Just because the weapons belong to the Occultists, does not mean they actually know how to use them or care for them. Some of this stuff looks older than them and totally uncared for. But yes, let's start with Hector and his men to clean out the room and get things started. Then have any of our troopers that are very familiar with these types of firearms to repair and recondition those that can still be useful."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Hector comes with the other men come, looking frazzled, as all are somewhat. One of the men explains that many lodge members gave large portions of their collections when they passed. He mentions that a similar room on the floor above is filled with bows, arrows and various knives, axes, and other hunting equipment, though much of that was less tendered. The collections were almost never examined. Though..the best pieces, and the illegal ones, are in the first bunker level basement.
Fort smiles, "illegal ones?"
He shrugs, " we've had a lot of police over the years in the lodge. a
AKs, M16s. Grenades, c4, ah....rocket launchers...... "
Fort laughs.. "OK,it's decided,Hector.. I'm joining your lodge...."
Fort looks to Realmer.... "Masons with rocket launchers...got to love the wakadoodles.. Listen, I read enough in the library. It's not going to be easy. Permission to take Hector and one other fellows formally as apprentices. They know just enough to be dangerous without formal instruction. The other ten will need close looking after too. In the game universes is say the 10 are at least 3rd level ritualists. That's enough to make a mess since they don't have the sense to not muck with forces beyond their ken. Hector here picked up a Cantrip just by watching me do it twice..."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Hector mumbles, "I'll have to start a traveling lodge and I've no idea how far we are from the nearest grand lodge..."
Fort turns and laughs, "how far? All roads lead to Amber, that's how far...but I must say a traveling lodge sounds suitable.....and......Realmer, that's not a terrible idea....a traveling lodge......"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer snort laughs. "What do you want to do? Take the farmstead with us when we leave?"
Realmer looks like he is about to laugh again, but then his eyes get a far away, thoughtful look for a few seconds, then the smiles and says, "Estate Transfer Spell...... we COULD take the place with us."
Realmer smiles at the thought, but then his look changes, the smile disappears... he blinks his eyes several times then shakes his head as though clearing his mind of clutter. Then he looks to Fort with a serious expression on his face.
"Traveling Lodge? Joining the Lodge? Taking on Apprentices? Fort... are you losing your focus? Are you forgetting we are on a World of War? Have you forgotten our purpose here? Or have you something in mind that I haven't fathomed yet?"
Before Fort can answer, Realmer says, "Alright, I do understand the need to train these Occultists; for their safety and ours. But what's your thinking on the traveling lodge part?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort-'Im a member of a number of secret societies. But I was involved in other business when Tolknor did the whole Masonic thing in York. It never really spread to Tosa. It was big on Paradox. look, its worth thinking about. We are in a place under unusual circumstances.. and many of the people we meet, and many we brought here, are leder type. so we how do we bind them? Most are already loyal to Amber. Good. I wouldn't want to change that.. But these warriors can have many loyalties. Wouldn't you like to develop a power base? I have CHad, kind of, but I also have a few thousand particular friends willing to gut foes for me with little reward... Just my continued patronage. Do you think Bleys doesn't have that kind of cadre? Benedict certainly does.. Caine must have to have developed a spynetwork for Amber.. Julian had the Rangers.. Alex has a devoted group of 1000 friggin Titans. They serve not because of the World Stne but because of hared conquest. Look at these people? there are 5000 Amberite soldiers here and who knows what they will be doing a year from now.. But....If we create a lodge..develop a loyalty complimentary to Amber, to the Princeling they served in Adledross with... ties that bind.. When you need a 100 guys, you call on the lodge, or the circle or the Fellows of The Black Cape, or whatever..jut thinking out loud...."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort-"Sorry,,I am overthinking things.. we are only a few weeks into 10 months. But it seems places like this pop up to keep us fed. and equipped. Hip pigs..Farms...an arsenal of weapons and such..This seems like the logistical phase and if done wrong, things might get scares later on. I suggest we take 10 days here. Clean the arms. Check everything. let me teach Cantrips. pack everything we need up and get 10 days from here before Reggie's 20 days are up. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
As Realmer listens to Fort speak, a look of understanding comes into his eyes, then a bit of a gleam appears as Fort goes on. Then a smile appears... and the more he listens to Fort's idea, the bigger and broader the smiles gets. He begins nodding his head up and down slowly, still grinning.
"Fort... I like the way you think. Certainly more grand than my own plans for this place... and after... but still... very workable... and fits well enough with my goals and ideals..."
He trails off, a far away look in his eyes... but only for a few moments. Then he focuses on Fort, then looks around him at everything... and smiles again.
"Right. 10 days to get everything and everyone ready and get out... to train these 12 Occultists in the basics of real magics... and in that time we must summon a Masoja of Knowledge, learn what we can and prepare for our coming battle with Reggie, the Masoja of Rage and War. And turn this farmstead into an accelerated food producing and food storage stronghold.... all while battling the standard threats and planned threats that Adledross offers."
Realmer grins from ear to ear. "Fort, I want you to take four of the Occultists, I'll take another four and when Tesa gets here with the Drtida, she can take the remaining four. Each of us has some form of Low Order and High Order Magic, and once they get the hang of Cantrips, I want them to learn a few Power Words.... just like the rest of our Troopers. And at some point in the next 10 days, before we leave... you and I will need to talk about this 'traveling lodge' of mine... of ours... and works out the details and get all of Amber's Troopers and Commanders, as well as the Occultists joined up. I would also like to 'honor' the Reen with the opportunity to be founding members of this new Lodge. We have a lot to do, so let's all get to it."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Over the next four days there is a flurry of activity.
Guns, blades, ammo and other equipment is brought out, expertly cleaned and sorted. 300 shotguns of various gauges. 200 hunting rifles, some with scopes. 100 bolt action riffles of the Grand & enflield variety in 303& 306. A trio of sharps .50s. 300 .22 rifles of various kinds. 120 assault riffles of either AR or AK variations and equivalences. 125 M16s military issue. 300 grenades. 5 rocket launchers and about 50 round. 800 various hunting knives up through machetes. 3200 folding pocket knives of various designs.
After a day where the guns are brought out and people skilled at dealing with them have instructed enough to clean them all, Fort takes his 4 ritualists and 4 troopers disappears with them, on horseback. He makes sure he has some of the first trumps.
(an edit) He recommends 2 troopers to Realmer as his best options of the troopers who can learn magic. Both already have a bunch of cantrips and Amber psyche, coming from magic rich shadows near Amber. (name them). He picks two Troopers for Tesa to include in her group that while having Chaos psyche they have what he calls thievish talents.
Alex informs Realmer that the warband that had been coming this way were intercepted by the Kzin and brutally dispatched. He would like permission to take a hundred horse and a hundred troops to go scour the dead for proper human armor rather then the Orcish mishmash.
The Drtida start sorting out among the two camps and getting a handle on the farms. their leader suggests they break down about half the hams for portioning our to the troops when the company marches.
The Reen are spending a lot of time ranging out further and further. One night the whole company takes wing west without word.
No word comes from any of the other armies.
On the morning of the 5th day Fort and his charges return. The 4 of them look 30 year younger and have a strange mixture of confidence and terror in their eyes.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer declares the house as the Command Center and that it is off limits to everyone but Commanders, Sub-Commanders, a few approved Troopers and the 12 new Apprentices. The Chamber Below is off limits to everyone until further notice. Realmer spends a very minimal amount of time overseeing things as he knows once orders are given, things get done and done well.
As soon as the activity begins on the house, Realmer gathers his four new apprentices then mentally summons Bob to him and speaks verbally.
“Bob, as Communications Master, I need you to establish better communications with all the Commanders, and we have a few new ones now. I want you to recall and reabsorb the Remote Eyes you have with the current four Commanders and Shape Shift off ten tiny black hummingbirds. They are to be assigned as follows: Dandilar, Traxton, Kablin, Carston, Fort, Ranatal of the new Cavalry Commander, whomever is assigned as the Artillery Commander, Drishti the temporary Scout Commander, whomever is assigned as the Firearms Commander, and Alexandir for now. Visit each in person to deliver the Remote Link hummingbird and instruct them about how to use it to communicate with any and all Commanders. Also, check on the progress of the Artillery and let me know who was chosen as Artillery Commander. Thanks, Bob. Also, I don't want to be disturbed for the next... let's say four hours.”
Realmer calls over two Troopers and tells them, and the 4 ritualists, to follow him. He leads them to a barn away from the noise of the house and activity then instructs the Troopers to keep watch and not to disturb him for any reason short of immanent death and places them on guard at either end to keep everyone out. He takes his new apprentices to a spot near the center of the largest open area, strips off his weapons and his shirt then sits down cross legged. When he speaks, it is in a calm a soothing tone, but not overly so. He tones down his Commander's Voice to something more like an Instructor's or Teacher's Voice.
“Remove your shirts and sit in front of me, side by side as close as possible. Now, look me in the eyes, without fear, for I will not hurt you.” He pauses a moment for them to do so, then continues. “You are now my apprentices, but I am not your Master and you will not call me such; I am your Commander and you will call me Commander. Each of you must learn Magic and learn it quickly, but we don't have the time to do this in any normal fashion. So, you must submit to my Will and give yourselves over to me completely and willingly; something I know you are all familiar with and capable of. Now I know it didn't go well for you the last time and that you are quite wary, if not downright fearful, of doing so again... so I give you my word that I will not harm you and that I will release you from the Compellings I intend to use to help in your training. These Compellings are intended to help each of you remain calm and focused so you can learn quickly in a foreign hostile environment. You must listen to my words carefully and when I give instructions, you must follow them exactly, without questions and without hesitation.”
Realmer gives them a few moments to process the information and his requirements, then continues. “You will sit there without moving or making any sounds. You will watch what I do carefully and not look away. This is a demonstration of a True Power and High Order Sorcery. Soon you will see the Sigil of the Pattern of Amber appear in the air before you. You will see many bundles of magical energies Hung upon it; they are High Order Spells.”
Realmer brings up the image of the Pattern in his mind, walks it to its center, the wills the Sigil to manifest visually before him, between him and the men sitting before him; large like a shield, his Hung Spells easily visible. Realmer focuses on one, the Amnesia Compellings Spell; he makes several adjustments to the Spell's parameters to alter its effects so it does not completely wipe the victims' memories of a specified time period, but instead, subdues all personal memories of past experiences to make them seem like a past life and not something to be overly concerned with or think on much unless the knowledge is needed or requested... similar to what was done to him and everyone else when they all began their training in the Nasty Place a little over nine years ago. When he is satisfied with his work, he will focus on another Spell; the Loyalty Compellings. He will check its parameters, tweaking them slightly to better fit this exact situation, then spend several minutes pouring additional energies into to compensate for the four men present. The spell is designed to affect one or more victims, but Realmer buffed it up because he likes to err on the side of caution and over preparedness when possible. When both Spells are ready, Realmer shrinks the Sigil down to the size of a dinner plate directly in front of his face, but mostly transparent and ghostly in appearance so he and his apprentices can easily see through it, then he addresses them.
“Look me in my eyes through the ghostly Sigil and follow my instructions exactly.” Realmer raises his left hand and extends it forward slightly. “You two men on my left; place your left arm around the shoulders of the man to your left, then take your right hand and grasp my left forearm firmly and do not let go, but do not restrict my movements in any way. And keep your eyes only on my eyes and listen only to my voice.”
Realmer then raises his right hand and extends it forward slightly. “You two men on my right; place your right arm around the shoulders of the man to your right, then take your left hand and grasp my right forearm firmly and do not let go, but do not restrict my movements in any way. And keep your eyes only on my eyes and listen only to my voice.”
“Soon you will feel my mind touching yours; or more accurately, my Psyche making contact with each of your Psyches'. When you feel this sensation, open your mind... lower your Psychic Resistance and allow the contact freely. Then you will feel my Psyche completely overpower your Psyches'; again, lower your Psychic Resistance and allow it to happen, freely. None of this is painful, when you allow it to happen freely.”
(more below)
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
(more above)
Realmer feels the four men's touch upon his skin... he reaches out with his Psyche, now feeling the four men's Psyches... he pushes with his Psyche gently but steadily against the four men's Psyches' until he feels all four of them allow contact. Once Psychic Contact is achieved with all four, Realmer will push steadily harder with his Psyche against theirs until he has Dominated their Psyches'. Once Psychic Domination is achieved, Realmer will mentally speak in calming tones, telling the men to release their anxieties and fears, to let go their worries and problems, to remain calm and focused. He tells them to keep looking into his eyes, to keep holding on to him but to allow him to move his arms freely. He then focuses on the Modified Amnesia Compellings Spell hung on the Pattern, and releases it, having already modified all Lynchpins for the four men before him. Once their memories are dulled, Realmer will release the Loyalty Compellings Spell, again already modified for the four men before him to be loyal to him, their Commander; Relmopator of Amber. Once the Loyalties are in place, Realmer will spend the next two hours instilling another Compelling, that he did not have ready in Spell form; a Compelling for the four men to remain calm and focused, to observe and listen, to make them very receptive to learning new information and following directions exactly.
Realmer then looks into the eyes of the man on his far left, letting him know that Realmer is addressing him and him alone.
“Your new Designation is A. You will forget any names that you were known by before this day. The personal details of your past life are unimportant currently. You are an Apprentice of Commander Relmopator of Amber. What is your Designation?”
Realmer will repeat this process for each of the other three men, proceeding for left to right, their Designations being: B, C, and D respectively.
Once this is all completed, Realmer will return to the house with his apprentices and have them help with the cleaning, sorting, organizing and repairing of weapons and gear using Cantrips that Realmer will teach them on the spot, Cantrips like; Clean, Gather, Knot, Mend, Stitch and Tie.
When Tesa arrives with the Drtida, Realmer will bring over the four remaining Ritualists, then gives her some minimal instructions on how to train her four new apprentices: "I want them to learn as many Cantrips and power words as you can teach them in the next 10 days. And if possible, even a few Low Order Spells... if they are capable. They may already know one Cantrip... you decide what they learn next and how. But I want the first Power Word they learn to be Magic Negation. I'll check on your progress in 5 days. Good luck."
Realmer approves Alex's request for 100 horse and 100 men to scrounge for armor and makes sure he has his little black hummingbird for communication with the other Commanders.
Realmer keeps his apprentices close and is constantly making them learn new Cantrips and telling them how Low and High Order Magic functions... when they are not busy working. By the second day, Realmer is working on Power Words with them. By the fourth day, Low Order Magic Spells, 1st Level; he chooses to teach them Magery (Warlock) due to the total lack of Material Components needed for Spells from that system. And the first Spell he teaches them is Read Languages... and begins teaching them Thari.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
When Realmer touches the 4 men's psyche he notices something immediately. Each has had his heartfire strengthened by possession by a Dufiro. Almost certainly Reggie. It doesn't equal control or binding but looks like something designed to make them more fit to enact the rituals he taught them. It wasn't done calmly but in terror and pain but it raised all of them to Amber psyche and endurance. It raised them to chaos strength. They each have a hodgepodge of odd power words. One has a strange psychic resonance he has not seen before. But in the end they learn
Alex returns in a couple days with 800 suits of armor, once the pieces are matched up, all in a leather/chain range with half helms and some joint armor. He also brings two Kzin that are near death. He explains that despite knowing that death means resurrection in the east, the Kzin do not wish to be euthanized. He brought them in the hopes that Fort can heal them.
When Fort returns the next day he is able to manage healing them. Afterwards he and his apprentices move to prepare the summoning hill.
Otherwise plans proceed.
(Note the edit in my upper comment?)
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
[Yes; I saw your Edit above. Adding/inserting a little more to account for it.]
After Fort's recommendation and subsequent departure, Realmer seeks out his new advanced apprentices; Trooper Albert Ornhurst XVII and Trooper Ernest Hess. He explains to them that they have shown a very high aptitude for Sorcery, and have been chosen to be his new Apprentices. First, Realmer explains to them what he did to his other four new apprentices; the Masonic Ritualists, and why, but that they will not be undergoing the same process. Realmer tells Bert (as he prefers to be called) and Ernie (as he has been called his whole life) that he expects them to learn Magic well enough to train his four lower apprentices, if needed.
Realmer begins by teaching Bert and Ernie some Low Order Magic; Magery (Warlock) Spells, and some Power Words to begin their High Order training. After a day or so, once they have the hang of Low Order and High Order Magic, he begins teaching them Sorcery by teaching them the 4 Micro-Spells in the following order: Mind Touch, Shadow Manipulation, Shadow Opening then Magical Energy. By day five, the day Fort returns, Bert and Ernie should have no less than two Basic High Order Spells learned; Mind Touch and Defensive Material at minimum.
In regards to his 4 Masonic Apprentices, Realmer takes the time to figure out what Power Words they already know and adds to them. He also takes the time to investigate the one man's 'strange psychic resonance', at least enough to have an idea of why it seems strange to Realmer.
Realmer also takes the time to read the Tome of Summoning for the Dufiro of Knowledge and is careful not to utter a sound when he does. When Fort returns, Realmer returns the tome to him and will assist, or at least observe, the preparations for the summoning on the hill.
[I will be adding a reply to the Comment below soon.]
*'''Michael James Watson'''
(Bert & earnie? ok. But Earnst is not the Easnst Hess that served with Hitler. No earthlike worlds that close to Amber, ones knowing Amber well enough to have soldiers in Amber's army. The 4 masons all have unusally high Psyche, Chaos Ranked at least. One has at least Amber psyche if not pointed and he is the one with the ressonance)
After studying the one with resonance Realmer knows its something but not quite sure what.
After reading the Tome through he realizes what it is about the man. Looking him over again he realizes the man has had a Dufiro of some power bound to him. Not a Masoja but an Avasa and it is still bound to him. It is not mentally in control of the man but is serving in some kind of voluntary binding. the man himself does not have any idea about it when asked. Realmer also can not tell what kind of Avasa it is.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
(Yes... Bert and Ernie. hehe. The name Ernest Hess was just a coincidence... didn't realize the Historic significance.)
Realmer does not mention to Fort his discovery about the Avasa at this time.... Fort seems really busy in that library. Realmer just watches the man's behavior and continues on.)
*'''Michael James Watson'''
As watching the man go about his work a the farm is assembled he seems to be the one looking over ham. the smoked house. he is very familiar with them and the process. Claims he runs a restaurant back home. He selects the ones and sets up the stations to rend them into traveling portions. He also looks over the Hip Pig that had been secured and has it all moved into the smoke house and properly, non-magically, preserved for smoking.
On the 8the day Fort comes out and stands next to Realmer watching the man work..
"I felt it too.. I thought he might have had a Dufiro pass through him and thought it might have been Reggie. Now I'm more attuned to things here. He has a Avasa bound to him. I'm willing to bet when you taught him the fire Cantrip he got it the first time. I think he has a Fire Avasa bound to him. Makes sense. Reggie is a Rager. He could easily have Fire Avasa in his pay. The question is what to do about him?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well...." Realmer draws the word out, then pauses. "If it is a spy for Reggie, then it already knows our plans, so setting it free might give Reggie information he does not yet have. Of course, Reggie may already know if the Avasa has a Psychic Link to Reggie the Rager. Killing it would be difficult here, and might enrage it and create an enemy when it revives."
Realmer pauses and looks Fort in the eyes. "Perhaps I should talk to the Avasa and see if I can get it for work for me, instead of Reggie. I'm sure some sort of arrangement can be made. It's worth a try at the least."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort nods, "Ah Arnold, can you come over here please?"
Arnold comes over, chewing on a bit of Pork fat.
Fort slams his psyche into him, binding him in statue like stillness.
Fort nods, "Path open.. It will speak Chaosian Thari to be sure..Your ball."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer turns to look at Fort with an arched eyebrow, but says nothing, then turns back to Arnold. Realmer speaks in his best Chaosian Thari.
"I am speaking to the Avasa within the man. My name is Relmopator, as I am sure you know. Please speak with me. What shall I call you?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Call me Vatra, though summoning with that name would be pointless. What a swirl of peoples are in you. What have you done to Arnold. We were cooking lovely pig. I was relishing the feast to come, tasting through him. Hve you told him I reside in him? He would have no love of fire were it not for me.. I joined with him when he took the 4th circle of the Masonic order. Uzgata sent me to him though being him has been such a fine pleasure"
Fort whispers.."Uzgata....."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well met, Vatra. I know the name you give is only for conversation and not summoning. And yes; there are many peoples within my lineage; I come from an unusual line. And worry not about Arnold, he is unharmed. We wanted him to 'move aside' so I could speak to you. I did question him about you, but he had no idea you were inside him and I'm sure he didn't believe me. I am glad you are enjoying your experiences through Arnold. And I am glad you are not harming or controlling Arnold. You say Uzgata, Uzgata the Masoja of Rage and War? He sent you to Arnold? Why? Do you work for Uzgata? If so, why? What has he promised you? And what are you to do for him to get what he promised?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Vatra makes a sounds like a rasp that might be laughter, "You think I see your linage? No.. I see the people within you. Do not confuse those with your line of the meat of you. Your heartfires. The Wizard. The Diplomat. The Warrior. The Fire of Abandonment. The Fire of Vengeance. The Father's Fire. The Mother's Fire. The Fey Fire. The Adask Fire. The Fire of Chaos, though---What is this Chaos fire of yours mean, so green and frail..... So many people with such a weak central heartfire to warm them. I know a Blender who would unify those people in you. What might you become then with such heat. "
Arnold shakes suddenly.
"I've let Arnold hear me.. I'm closer so even this Dufiro of Knowledge beside you, whose name I know not, can not keep Arnold's Heartfire blind. His Heartfires burns together in a merry dance. You query widely. That is poor manners for a summoner but then you do not summon me. Uzgata screeches but he pays. He offered me Arnold to learn of the foods of his world. The Pig. The Cow. The Goat. I've felt my fingers in the drippings of such lovely meats. All I give Uzgata is Arnold's obedience, that he might whisper a word in the ear of his Worshipful Master. Such strange secret societies these humans have. They play at being Wizards and come dangerously close to desolation. Uzgata may have these others in his thrall but I have strengthened Arnold's Heartfire. He is mine, at least for now."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer smiles and says, "I know a Blender as well, Vatra... perhaps I will mention this Blending of Heartfires you mentioned when next we meet."
He pauses and nods his head to Arnold/Vatra. "Allowing Arnold to hear and know is a good thing for all. Arnold, you should know what is going on inside your body and mind. And Vatra, if you have not already done so with what you have done, I will now return Arnold's full memories of self. Arnold; allow me into your mind, momentarily, to remove a partial memory block."
Realmer reaches in with his Psyche and removes the Modified Amnesia Compellings only. He leaves the Calm Focused Learning Compellings and Loyalty Compellings in place for now.
"There. All done. Arnold; you are yourself, but still Loyal to me. Now I have a question for each of you. Arnold, now that you know, do you still want the Avasa to continue to inhabit your body? And Vatra; would you like to work for me instead? Perhaps we can work out a deal where you get what you want without serving Uzgata."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"You are under the mistaken belief that Arnold has a choice in this while I am content to stay. Now he and I shall make deals between us first. Then we will decide if we will continue in your tutelage. I have learned much in this hosting. When I let Arnold lead continue to teach him and he will continue to serve. Someday we will negotiate for powers. "
Fort steps closer, having released Arnold completely.
"Your bargain is fair. I am Fortunadas Enright. I seek to bargain and have powers to trade."
Arnold looks to him, speaks in Vatra's voice, "Fortunadas of Knowledge. You are known. Unsummoned I bargain. What is your bid?"
Fort-"I am a writer of tomes. I will write your Masoja Tome. "
Vatra, "Truly? And my part?"
Fort-"The summoning name of Uzgata. And the Line of his life as proof of powers."
Vatra-"Done. Uzgata's Life Path is Elemental of Fire, Spirit of Combat , Spirit of Fire , Spirit of Rot, Avasa Dufiro of Rage, Avasa Dufiro of Conflict, Avasa Dufiro of Fire:, Masoja of War, Masoja of Rage. When I see the Tome you offer, I shall tell you the name."
Fort-"We are on a isolated world. I do not have access to the appropriate materials to make a suitable Tome worthy of a Masoja of Fire. Give me the name and on my True Name I bind the oath that I shall provide the Tome in the Halls of the Amber Cult in the Fane of Zilla. If will be covered in Fire Dragon Hide, leafed with elven skin vellum. It will be bound with cord made of hair of ranyhyn tail. The Ink I will use will be bartered from a Dufiro of Vision of my acquaintance. "
Vatra-'Done. Give me prepared leather and I shall write the name. Summoning only. I know not his binding name. that is on you."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort-"Spirit of Rot? Really? Was he a bad boy?"
Vatra-"Do you bargain for that Story, Writer of Tomes?
Fort laughs, "Not today. But let us put that on the list for after Zilla. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer looks to Fort when he declares the bargain is fair, and defers to his knowledge and experience in these matters. Realmer listens carefully as Fort bargains further with Vatra and is impressed how quickly the got what he wanted. He is also intrigued by the materials the Tome will be made from.
"Vatra, when the time comes, I will gladly bargain for powers with you. Until then, I would hope that both you and Arnold will agree to allow me to continue Arnold's education in Magic, since you are both stuck on this world... for now. One of the worlds I spent much time on had specialized Mages known as Elementalists. I believe that Arnold has the potential to become a very powerful Fire Elementalist and I would like to teach all the Fire Magic I know to help further that end. But for now, the meal is near ready and I know we are all looking forward to a good meal before our journey begins. Go and enjoy the meal and make your bargains amongst yourselves and let me know your decision by sunrise tomorrow."
Realmer turns to Fort. "We have things to talk about. Let's grab our food and head to the Library in the house."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He nods, going to the house. "I fast. Get your chow and I'll meet you in the library. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer heads over to the kitchen area setup near the smokehouse and gets a hearty helping of all the fares representing the fruits of their combined efforts gathering and hunting and most recently, farming and harvesting. He gives the rest of his apprentices the rest of the evening off but wants them all on the front porch of the Farm House at dawn. He brings his plate of food, and Bob, with him to the Library.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
In the library is a smallish woman with floor length hair in many different colors. Fort sits by her his head against hers.
On the table is a steel box 8"x5"x2". In forts hand is a goldish tube device. He puts the top in his nose and inhaled deeply. Leaning back the woman takes the device twists it then inhales herself. Placing the device in the table she kisses Forts head
"Your dinner guest is here dearest...."
Fort nods and clicks the device, inhaling again.
Looking to Realmer. "I'll be better in a moment. I'd offer you some of my dinner but sometimes even one dose leads to a lifetime of addiction."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer bows to the woman respectfully and smiles.
"The Spice Melange... I have contemplated trying it for it's Mind Enhancing Effects... but I have never been overly fond of addictions. During the years I was a Necromancer, I was also an Opium Fiend... it was the only thing that relieved some of the pain of what was done to my body. I hated it because I had to use it to survive the pain. I enjoyed it though..." Realmer trails off for a moment, eyes distant... then he snaps out of it and says, "I'll stick to my food, for now. So, do we still need to summon the Masoja of Knowledge?"
Realmer sits and begins eating heartily.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He nods. Pinching off a twist of spice into the table he dips a wet pinky into it as he talks.
"Paradoxian melange to be specific since melange acts different in different places. It's not common among CHAD members but us old timers use it extensively. Most of us could easily have magicked the addiction away but in the end, the balance is in favor of retaining it. "
Rubbing it on his lips, "I summoned her because of our shared addiction but it proves summoning can be done here. Yes, we summon to morrow night. I'll spend the day setting up the stage. I'll need you for an hour midday then an hour at dusk before I start. Well want all the troops to know what's happening so they don't panic. I'm sorry for interrupting you earlier. It's a matter of style in dealing with Dufiro. Less you tell them the better. One thing at a time. Don't give them a chance to interpret an offer. Accept any reasonable deal fast. You'll get the hang of it."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Of course, I've also broken one of the cardinal rules of Dufiro bargaining; never offer what you can't deliver. Now I know shadows in York I can hunt red dragons easily enough. Drow are elves so getting elven vellum is only moderately repellant. Between thee and me we have two hopefully very understanding rynahan. But, Writer of Tomes will be tricky. The precision and the literary structure isn't beyond me and I know the language of Fire Dufirosim well enough. But I've never written a Masoja tome. For that I'll first have to get to the bottom of why I am suddenly considered a Dufiro of Knowledge and 'known' as one by Dufiro I never met. Why I have a price on my head. And of course, how to channel the prowess to write the book. That will take bartering with a Masoja of Knowledge or three, maybe a Vision or Life one. Or, Great Venki forefend, a Masoja of Wisher...Fuck, it's been a hell of a long time since I had a challenge like this..kind of a rush. In my favor is the fact that to write the first draft I'll, or we'll my young padawn, will be told fiery Vatra's calling name, summoning name, and binding name, his whole life path, and, most importantly: his True Name. Since the tome itself will be built first and approved by him and at least three other Masoja, if he gets pissy I can just bind him to it till I have the rest managed... Not quite a respectable thing to do but hardly unheard of. "
He inhales a dose, adjusts it to a minimal setting, casts the clean Cantrip on the tip, and slides it over.
"That's just a tap. Same as you might get in a strong cup of melange wine. That won't be enough to blue tint an Amberite's eyes if you only take a few over a few weeks, and as I go over tomorrow night's ritual, we may need the extra attention. Savvy?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The woman stands and walks near Realmer, running her hand in Fort's hair.
"Such lovely silver hair, Amber Lord. You may call me Sallistra. I might answer. "
She expertly twist a braid in Ford's hair half her small pinky's width. Displaying it she says, " For a braid this size from above your ear, I'll make 3 bowstrings adding yours to my own hair. You may have two of them. They will resist all but the strongest blades and pull on the strongest horn bow. They will never fray. "
Fort chuckles as he leans back, his eyes the colorful blue in blue color again. " They would make hellacious garrotes and find harp strings too! ". She nods in agreement. Fort laughs and runs his gums with a finger of spice.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well met by Magic and Moonlight, Sallistra. I am Relmopator Barimen; you may call me Realmer. And I usually answer when called." He gives her a smile and a wink then continues. "I accept your offer; the hair you require is yours... under one condition; that you don't use what you keep against me in any way. Fair Bargain?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
She looks at Realmer and smiles, "Let us say I will make the strands now. You may have yours now. I shan't use hair from mine in any magical attacks or concoctions nor barter it away. However, should I have to shoot you with arrows, strangle you, or play vogan dance music at you, you will have to take your chances.. fair enough?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort laughs, "that's my sally...
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer smiles and laughs. "I like your style and your humor, Sallistra. Fair enough. Bargain struck. Take what you need."
He bows his head respectfully to her then turns his attention to Fort.
"First things first, Fort; the Spice... I understand the need for it and I will meter my dosing carefully. I'll try a bit after I finish eating."
Realmer eats several bites before continuing.
"Secondly, the materials we need for the Tome; I'm sure I can convince Graso to give up the needed tail hairs. And depending on the requirements of the 'Fire Dragon Hide', I might be able to help there too. During my adventuring years in the Shadow of Oerth, my companions and I managed to slay a Great Wyrm Red Dragon... I have a large supply of magically preserved dragon hide and scales I never got around to using stashed in my Island Castle in said Shadow."
Realmer eats a few more bites, finishing off most of the smoked pork on his plate.
"Thirdly, tomorrow is going to be a very busy day for me; I still need to return to the Apple Orchard and carve the Trump Sketch for the Camp on the hill over there" he nods his head slightly in the direction of the Camp overlooking the Farmstead, "before we leave. I plan to take all my Apprentices and Bob first thing in the morning. I've gotten pretty good at carving Trumps... it should only take a couple of hours at most... I'm sure I'll be back before midday."
Realmer takes a minute to clear his plate, then pulls out his freshly refilled bottle of Napoleon Brandy with the Percy stopper. He Conjures up three brandy snifters, uncorks the bottle, fills all three about 1/3 full then stoppers the bottle but leaves it on the table. He places one snifter in front of Sallistra, one in front of Fort and takes the third for himself, taking a small swig before continuing.
"After assisting you at midday, I will take the afternoon to address the troops and commanders; informing them of what will occur that night and why. I also want to lay out the details of the Skeleton Crew that will remain behind to run the Camp and oversee the Farmstead and the Drtida once the Army marches. The Resurrected Troopers will replace those of the Skeleton Crew upon their arrival at the Overlook Camp, allowing those Troopers to rejoin the Army on its march across the world. There should also be food gathering at or near each Trump Location when the Resurrected Troops return; the excess can be stored here at the Farmstead."
Realmer picks up the Spice dosing device and looks it over. Fort can tell he is not really studying the device. He stands and paces the small Library, ignoring the small device for the moment, instead looking at the books and supplies in the room.. writing supplies a Sorcerer and Trump Artist could use...
Suddenly, Realmer places the device to his left nostril, clicks and inhales. Then places it on his right nostril, clicks and inhales again. He sets the device on the table, absently Cleaning it with a Cantrip as he walks away, once again looking at the useful supplies in the room.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
There is a sudden hit of sensation.. It feels warm and tense. after the moments pass he notices things around the room. Not vastly different, but textures to books, grin in wood, air flow from some source out in the hall. It has a feel in his fingers, and running through the Cantrip fingering idly it seems as if the fingers glide along known rails to their position. Something about long experience seems slightly easier, or more accessible. Picking up a book he feels its weight, its texture and its shape somehow closer.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"OH MY..." Realmer says in a breathy tone. "This is.... superb."
He looks around the room, glancing at everything and nothing. He reaches out with all his senses and draws everything in.
"I now understand the draw of Paradoxian Melange." He exhales deeply. "And I can fathom how it can easily become addictive."
Realmer looks at Fort intently. "But, I can also fathom the benefits of such an addiction... I can already feel an easier, more graceful access to my abilities. I can also see things in more detail... without really looking. I can feel the slight air flow from the hall... I can feel the quality of this book by touch alone."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Yes, but till we are off adledross I'll control the supply. There is a lot to it that is helpful, especially in dealing with the Dufio. Im going to set this tome on the desk. I've red it dozens of times. I want you to read it carefully. The effect should last at least an hour. That will be enough to finish the book familiarize yourself with the ritual itself, and the required materials. I have the materials ready, mostly. I'm going to dose again and fine tune some. I'll say one thing for our Mason friends, they did what they could well. Chalks, oils, sugars, sands, all perfect.. So read."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer takes the Tome from the desk and begins reading; again, being careful not to utter a sound while doing so.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
After reading the Tome, Realmer looks over the Material Components that Fort has prepared.
Due to Realmer's background in Magics requiring Material Components, his forceful relearning of Low Order Magic Castings as a Witch instead of a Wizard, his training in Alchemy and Chemistry both, and his training as an Apothecary, he has 'finely crafted and tuned senses' regarding measurements and doses. And he also finds the Masons' attention to fine detail most pleasing and satisfying.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort's work in preparation is impressive. Even with heightened senses he can find no flaw in the components listed in the tome.
Fort spends time writing out questions. Bargains. prepping bullet points. Developing ritual breaks.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Fort, your preparation of the Material Components is beyond reproach. Truly. Impressive work indeed. I could not have done better myself; and I think highly of my skills in that regard."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Aren't you the charmer?"
He smiles and continues. " We'll be making a summoning circle, so we couldn't attempt to bind him if we tried. We are asking him to attend us not demanding it. The tome has his binding information but we don't have the supplies and not time to get them. It means he can leave anytime he wants or anytime the circle is broken. We'll need 6 people to hold candles. You will deploy the powders on the inner circle when I start reading. The powder acts like sugar attracts flies. Part of the sand is sugar of course. this one has a sweet tooth. We will need several gallons of brandy and we have a good source for that. It will be in the silver container the masons use. Once the creature arrives he will leave if any candle bearer speaks. If they do they will find out what the woodshed looks like around here."
He sniffs a little from the dispenser at your setting. Casually clicking it full and clean cantriping it.
" As my second you will be in the inner circle with me so you may speak but I suggest you only do so if it directs a question toward you. He will do so to distract me. His life path includes Spirits of Fire, Combat and 2 terms as a Spirit of Rust. Avasa of Conflict, Fire, Rage and Knowledge. Masoja of Knowledge. He will have a goal beyond Knowledge and will barter for powers in that direction. I am betting Warfare or Death is his goal. This is not a kindly scholarly Dufiro. Rust or Rot Spirits are serving a punishment term. Even Masoja can be sentenced to serve as Rust or Rot and its one of the rare races that allow devotional service."
Fort watches Sally twisting cord briefly.
"We have Uzgata's common name. We need his binding name. From what I have found in the library if I can get his calling name, and a summoning name, I might be able to ferret out the binding name. My goal is Uzgata' binding name. If I get that I might be able to figure out his True Name. Under no circumstances are you to leave the inner ring or suggest a bargain directly to him. Tell me. that's allowed. At not time give him anything. Time to pick a common name for Dufiro to call you. Sally, any suggestions?"
She looks up a little dizzily.."Silvermane. memorable. Descriptive. Not too specific...Icehand...Glamour...Deadhand"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Silvermane.... I really like that one. Physically descriptive, but not overly so... and gives nothing away about me. Thank you, Sallistra, for my Common Name."
He bows to her then turns back to Fort.
"Once you get that prepared leather to Arnold/Vatra you will have Uzgata's Summoning Name. Can I assist with that? I'm sure the leather has to be prepared in a special fashion. Is there a Tome present on that?" He chuckles. "Or is that something you will need to do yourself?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"No, its straight forward. The leather we make the trumps on is sufficient. Its not part of the ritual to summon him. Just some Dufiro work it into their summoning name that if their name is written on certain surfaces it burns. Sally's here won't work on paper. Well, unless its hemp paper. Jute or wood based papers melt away. I know a Masoja of Death who only allows his summoning name to be written on the skin of Avasa of Paper..a little snark joke.. "
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Sally adds, "Clean is best. Use the Cantrip on it ruthlessly.. It shows respect"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort chuckle, "It also shows that Vatra is telling us only leathers for the name, meaning the name burns other mediums.. interesting.. We will copy the name on paper and cloth and see what happens.. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer smiles as he reaches inside his dragon skin leather satchel, made from the same batch as the Trumps and Maps, and pulls out a Trump-sized, pre-cut piece of dragon skin leather and heads for the hallway, saying: "I'll be back shortly... I'm sure 'they' are still enjoying the meal. Bob, come with me."
Realmer heads outside and uses his Psyche and Bob if needed, to find Arnold/Vatra... 'they' have a very unique Psychic Resonance and Realmer should be able to use it to track/locate 'them'. If not, Bob can help... and questioning Troopers if needed.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Finding them vatra writes the name down. 3000 characters in a language he doesn't know.
"Your friend offers what he can not produce. He takes a big risk you know."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I think you underestimate him. But only time will tell... in the end. I thank you for honoring your part of the bargain. I will do my best to make sure he honors his part. Enjoy the rest of the evening, I will see you at dawn on the porch. I have a special mission tomorrow morning I am taking all of my apprentices on... if the two of you decide to remain under my tutelage."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"My binding to Arnold serves me well. I learn from you. I serve Uzgata. If you can bind him I shall not weep. We will stay till Uzgata makes flutes of your bones or you make them of his."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I find it distressing that you serve Uzgata... yet encouraging that you would not be distressed at his defeat. What would it take to get you to NOT serve him?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Slay him. I understand this world treats the slain to resurrections. This is poor for Uzgata. He has bound me, voluntarily, and the men of the lodge, involuntarily. He has near 300 servants bound to him that he may summon to his need. yet, those bindings end in his death. Your companion seeks to bind him. I say slay him. Let him return as but one warrior Dufiro you have already slain once.'
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I thank you for your information; it and you have been most helpful. And since you are being so helpful, I would like to ask another question, knowing I may be overstepping my bounds. What is Uzgata's weakness? If you know it."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"He is arrogant. Not an unusual trait for those attracted to Rage. He desires to be a master of life and death. He dreams of storming the Wishers and demanding they grant their powers. He can not see that those who serve him hate him. also not unusual for those attracted to Rage. He has a few followers who are as angry as he is and they make him dangerous, but they hate him as much as the rest do. His arrogance blinds him. Flattery distracts him. he has violent ambitions. Many of those like myself would not defend him unless our agreements bound us to'
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Thank you again, Vatra. When your bond to Uzgata is broken, I hope you will consider bargaining for power with me... I am sure we can bargain well and come to a mutually beneficial agreement. I have much to do before the dawn. Rest well, Arnold. Dismissed."
Realmer makes his way back to the Library and grins from ear to ear as he hands Fort the Dragon Skin with Uzgata's Summoning Name written upon it.
"I have some great information to share... and a new plan of attack for ole Reggie-Uzgata."
Realmer then shares the information he gained from Vatra with Fort. When he is done he studies Fort's face and waits for his verbal reaction.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort thinks seriously, pouring a glass of brandy.
"Interesting...and reasonable. Dufiro build powerbases. They bind them in many ways. Bargains. Bindings. Mutual Aide. Mutual interest. realms. Race associations. admiration and worship. Cults. Secret Societies. It seems reasonable that he would think himself adored.. ragers are self-haters. Warfare races live on hate too quite often... If he has bound his followers he might delude himself that he is beloved. "
He takes the snifter of brandy and twists a dose of melange into it.
"It takes a long time to summon and bind even a spirit and he probably has hundreds. Maybe thousands. as for the Avasa... less then a thousand. He is not a great lord. He might have a dozen Masoja bound to him though most will be hoping to pick his bones... Killing him here will mean he wakes up in the east. If he starts summoning and binding it will take months to put his force back together. He'll be pissed. Probably won't get much together before he comes looking for us.. "
He sips the brandy, takes the dispenser and twists a dose into Realmer's glass. He concentrates hard enough his eyebrows furrow.
"We are a month in to a 10 month tour. We won't see him for at least 10 days. We kill him, and who ever he brings. It takes a month to summon a reasonable warband. The second time...he will have less willing followers and be forced to bind them unwillingly. two months.. travel time.. a third fight...a third round of summoning....Less willing, more unwilling, and probably a few of his Masoja won't see him as a positive leader.. We might even snake a few of them for ourselves... Sally, as a favor to me, look on Silvermane's Heartfires.. There is a question about them the Avasa of Fire left us"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Sally walks close, slips a bowstring in to Realmer's hand, holding it and looking into him.
"Oh....someone has played dangerous games with you Silvermane.. Your Heartfires are all a tizzy. Someone has tightly bound them against unification... oh...you are fey.. and Adask.. and yes and Amberite.. oh Foxmate, its so sad....had I known I'd have called him Riven Flame. His healing is beyond me. You'll need a Masoja of Fire and either Life, health or Binding. But.. You would be better served taking him to the Wishers. Great Venki fore-fend such a journey"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Something to think on, Fort, as Sallistra looks into my Heartfires... what if we summon and bind Reggie after he dies the first time? Giving him little to no time to summon and bind help. Once bound, we keep him with us until we are free of this place, then release him and end him once and for all."
Realmer takes up his brandy snifter and swirls it a bit then takes a swig, savoring the flavor.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort-"Slay him, summon him as dawn hits the West. We need to ask when the resurrections occur. You plan makes best sense. id rather kill him over and over. That would piss him off enough to seek me out after we leave Adledross. Then I could kill him for good and all."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The first sip of the doctored brandy hits him like a sledgehammer. He well knows its the finest brandy he ever had before it was doctored, and though he has come to love it its still a wine product. the doctored brandy feels like warmth. Its is its own thing removed from its grape birth. The texture of the pure liquid touches his tastebuds and he can hear it being savored in his ears. It flows rich and warm through his blood. It mixes with his food in his stomach and its as if he can taste t all again with just a hint of new richness. Its flavor is the same but somehow fuller.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer's eyes roll back into his head in near ecstasy as he savors the experiences. He opens his eyes and toasts Fort in the air and takes just a sip this time... enjoys the experience again, then speaks slowly, quietly and perhaps even a bit more carefully enunciated, all with a slight smile on his lips.
"Fort, though you would enjoy slaying Reggie over and over, demoralizing and destabilizing his power base and destroying all of Reggie's credibility... I would rather not subject the Army to needless combat and the possibility of death, short lived as it may be."
"Sallistra; I know who has done this to me and I believe I know why... at least in part. It was done long ago... probably at birth or shortly there after. I have only known about it for a short time... relatively speaking. It was my intent before coming here, and will be my first mission after leaving here, to visit the person responsible and have it... undone... fixed... healed. Then perhaps I will call you to look upon them once again."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Oh, and Fort... I have given your idea of a Secret Order of our own much thought... I was thinking that not only should all Members of the Order be skilled in the use of Magics, but perhaps also... each could have a Dufiro willingly Bound to them or something they carry. You are right that some, if not many, of Reggie's 'followers' may want to switch sides and join up with us... especially since you are famous amongst their race, apparently. I was thinking we could call it the Order of the Beholder. I know Bob already approves of the name." Realmer chuckles.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Sally starts laughing. "Oh, dearest Foxmate, beauty is in the eye of the Beholder!!! " she laughs harder as Fort gives her a stink eye....
Fort-"No offense to Bob but I'm not wild about that name. We have time. I think tomorrow night we will find out how many of the troops might have even a slight interest of bearing a bound Dufiro. It will be loud and ugly and might have to be done several times. It will fray their nerves. But... They are here to have their nerves frayed. Amber troops might face creatures from the depths of Chaos and Abyssals are far more horror-show-ish than the worst Dufiro.. Fighting whatever Reggie can throw at us several times might be good for them, along with whatever else this battle plain has n store for us. Sally, when you get home look up some of your friends in the Cult. Spirits of Guard, Defense, Paper. and find me a Rust who you think needs a second chance. Avasa of Guard, Cleanliness, maybe a young Knowledge or Vision. Not just them but don't ask them till you are sure. We will need 30 or so spirits and at least a dozen Avasa."
She cocks her head, "No Masoja? I know a few in the Cult that would be happy to serve."
Fort shakes his head, "Its that willingness I want to avoid. We can't have one bind to a soldier of Amber and then decide to make a career out of it. Let them know I shall be bargaining with them. And find out the details of the bounty on my head. You should go."
She nods, presses a bowstring in Realmer's hand, squeezing it, Moving to fort, they kiss warmly, a friend's kiss, she passes him the third bowstring and fades in a rainbow of colors.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer frowns slightly at the rejection of his idea for the name of the Order... but then shrugs it off and takes a sip of his doctored brandy.
Realmer accepts the bowstring and squeezes Sallistra's hand in return. "Sallistra, it was a pleasure meeting you and I look forward to seeing you again. Thank you for your help thus far and for the help to come. Safe Travels, by Magic and Moonlight."
When she is gone, Realmer looks over the bowstring while talking with Fort.
"I am already working on a speech, in my head, to prepare the Troops for what is to come tomorrow night, and perhaps the remainder of our time here on Adledross. I intend to deliver it tomorrow afternoon. I intend to introduce the concept of our special, if not unique, shared experiences here due to the high levels of Magic being involved with this particular class, and that the special bond of camaraderie our shared experiences will bring will be stronger than any class before because of it... thus planting the seeds of our Order... or Brotherhood... or whatever we end up calling it."
Realmer muses a moment as he takes another sip of brandy.
"Though I have made speeches before, I'm not sure how good of a 'speech maker' I am or how rousing or morale boosting my speeches have been or will be... but...." he pauses for a moment, looking like he is trying to recall something. "I don't recall saying anything overly asinine or demoralizing, thus far. And, again thus far, the Troops seem to have accepted my command and leadership style... they have taken all that has occurred in stride and like professional seasoned soldiers. And I feel confident that others here have heard stories of this place from other NP Graduates and know or suspect that something is different... and I am equally confident that the subject has been talked about around more than one campfire in our camps. Tomorrow they it will all be addressed... tomorrow they will all know and be as prepared and informed as I can make them... tomorrow we will all be tested. Tomorrow is going to be a long busy day."
After a moment of silence, Realmer suddenly asks, "So, which of those listed Dufiro do you have in mind for me? Or do you think my complicated Heartfire issue might prevent a bonding?" Realmer's left hand idly swirls around the area of his heart when he says Heartfire... his right hand idly swirling the brandy in the snifter using a Stir Cantrip instead of moving the glass... he 'watches' the manipulations of the magic as he does so.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
" I have the Masoja that was bound to me in mind. A Knowledge. Familiar with special situations. workable and skillful. He may not be able to unify your heartfire but he will know a great deal about how it was done. Are we in agreement it was Dworkin who mucked with your fires? As for your speech, I'm sure it will be fine. Leadership is what you came here to learn. So lead. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"No, it was not Dworkin... but he told me who it was. And I'm not really worried about the speech or my leadership that much... just a bit drunk and high and musing aloud is all. A Masoja of Knowledge; nice. I was considering an Avasa or Masoja of Blending after my visit to Zilla and before I came here and learned more about Dufirosim from you."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Its been a pleasure.."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer stands and moves to the corner of the room opposite the doorway to the hallway and turns to examine the room, making sure he can see it in its entirety for this vantage point. Then he pulls from his satchel the needed supplies to make a Dragonskin Trump Sketch.
"I'm going to make a Trump Sketch of this room, Fort... for you. Should take me an hour or so. After that I'm going to get some rest. I'll be up before dawn and gone shortly after sunrise to complete the Location Trump at the Apple Orchard... I'll be back well before midday. Are you going to try that experiment with Reggie's Summoning Name on paper and cloth? I'm curious myself, now."
Regardless of Fort's answer or lack of answer, Realmer will work continuously on the Trump Sketch of the Library until it works, then he will leave it on the desk for Fort and head to the bedroom he chose as his own, on the top floor, put in a wake up call with Bob for an hour before sunrise, then get some sleep.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
" no, I'm not going to do any extra investigations on the paper or cloth thing. It might alert him to our intentions. But later to be sure. "
He packs the melange away and cleans his work area. Laying out the material components he starts writing his final question list.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
On the tenth day much has changed. Many of the masons would be considered 3rd level mages and once certain basic principles were laid out and certain learned experiences involved with ritualism were taught out of them them advanced fast. They were able to teach Cantrips far better the Realmer or fort because of their proximity to first understanding things and not over explaining them
The troops are ready to march by the morning of the 9th day. artillery built. weapons dispersed. armor fitted. it was a whirlwind week..
A troop of 20 Kzin arrive and reunite with their two companions. They request permission to advance with the Amber forces.
Fort has spent a lot of time in the library and says he is ready to do the summoning on the 9th night..
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
On the 9th day, Realmer has Bob wake him before sunrise then sends him off check on the Farmstead and Overlook Camp from on high before they all leave for the Apple Orchard. Realmer quickly prepares for his busy day ahead; gathering and checking needed equipment, tools, materials and supplies, packing them carefully in his satchel. He straps on his weapons belt, the fighting knife and utility knife he has carried since the beginning on his left hip, his broadsword hanging on his right hip for a left handed draw, his new .38 wheel gun, fully loaded, holstered and strapped low on his right thigh just below the hanging broadsword. Realmer has chosen to forego armor at this time, still preferring the freedom of movement and the use of Spells for Protection. He grabs his satchel and heads downstairs to the Library. If the Spice Dispenser is still on the table from the night before, Realmer will give it a Clean Cantrip, then takes a snort up each nostril then heads to the porch to wait for his apprentices.
Once they arrive, Realmer will tell them where they are going and what he intends to do. They are to remain on guard while he works, but also try to observe what he is doing as well. Then Realmer has Bob Trump him and his 6 apprentices back to the Apple Orchard with the Spring... the place where all their plans changed due to one incident. But that is past. Upon arrival, he moves to the place he intends to carve the Location Trump for the Camp overlooking the Farmstead, the Trump he was unable to complete last time. The place of the carving is outside the actual Apple Orchard and away from the Spring, out of view of both so that arriving soldiers will not easily be spotted. The general area was predetermined by himself and Fort on their first visit there when initially passing through. As he has done before, he carves the Location Trump at the base of a tree hidden by ground foliage so it will not be easily spotted by those not knowing to look for it. He puts his apprentices on guard as he works diligently on the Location Trump; it's destination point, a small cluster of trees just outside the western edge of the Camp overlooking the Farmstead. Once completed, Realmer activates it and they all return to the Camp, with time to spare before he is needed for the midday Ritual.
Realmer meets with the Kzin and approves their request to travel with the Army and relays that he is happy to have them and makes sure they are well fed and given access to any services the Army can provide; medical attention, armor repair, weapon sharpening, etc.
Realmer gathers the Commanders present at the Overlook Camp and lays out the plan for the 'skeleton crew' that will remain behind to run the Camp and oversee the Farmstead and the Drtida once the Army moves out the following day. He relays that Resurrected Troopers will replace those of the Skeleton Crew upon their arrival at the Overlook Camp, allowing those Troopers to rejoin the Army on its march across the world. Command of the Camp will be decided by the current Camp Commander from the choice of Troopers present; he will be the last to leave as Resurrected Troopers replace the Skeleton Crew. He also tells them that when an appropriate Trump Location site is found in the future, he will return to the Overlook Camp to carve the next Location Trump for the 'jump line' across the world. Realmer also lays out the food gathering that should occur at or near each Trump Location when resurrected Troops return; excess will be stored at the Farmstead.
Returning to the Farmstead before midday, Bob and Apprentices in tow, Realmer gathers the Commanders present there and lays out the same plan regarding the Skeleton Crew he just gave to the Commanders at the Overlook Camp above. Once done, he seeks out Fort for the midday Ritual. After that, the Big Speech... but first... the Ritual. Realmer goes over everything pertaining to the Ritual in his head while heading to hilltop where Fort is most likely already busy. Again, Bob and Apprentices in tow.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The training of the Amber forces shows in their adherence to orders and eagerness to prepare. Carston has taken over in a role near to a subcommander as the other Amber commanders are now deferring to him as he defers to Realmer. Duties get taken care of.
The Kzin seem eager to work with the Amberites but upon seeing Alex they seem spellbound at first. In awe.. When asked they admit that Alexandir, whom they have never met, is famous as a hunter of Kresh, an enemy species to the Kzin. Across shadow the legend of Alexandir defeating a pride of Kresh singlehandedly, earning one of his early saint of Battle awards is well known, much like a fairy tale told children and told around campfires. to see him in the flesh is disconcerting at first. Soon after they make a point of being near him and speaking to him. Alex knows Kzin well, and speaks their language, much to their delight. Rentar suggests to Carston and Realmer that the Kzin might attach to the cavalry and specifically to the unit Alex rides with, but does not lead.  At the midday meeting he finds Fort meticulously working on the ritual space.