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Posted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 1:00 pm Post subject: The Time Before : Discussion and Voting

Hey Everybody, Well I'm finally doing it... a storygame of my own. No longer will I hide away just giving out the opinions. For the first time, apart from the linear comp every now and then, I open myself up for full public opinion. Let 'er rip - that includes you Marm Introduction: "Report." The order was short and carried an authority that nearly overpowered the young recruit. "Er, we were ambushed sir." "Losses?" "Er ... everyone but me sir." The Captain seemed to sag a little, although to the recruit he was no less intimidating. "Very well, you're dismissed." The recruit seemed to gather some courage from somewhere. "You don't want to know the details of the attack Sir?" "No I don't. If I did I would have asked for it wouldn't I?" "Yes Sir." "You are dismissed." This time the Captain turned away and stared at the map spread across a table, held down at the corners by a large compass and a iron helmet. He didn't need to know the details. Every attack for the last nine months had been the same. Ambush, always unexpected, always at the seemingly safest point. Six to twelve mages would walk in from different directions, fireballs blazing. The magic that followed would vary, but within a few minutes all but one man would be killed in a vast variety of different ways. The remaining man would be allowed to escape to report to his superiors. Over 1200 soldiers had been lost in these attacks - three hundred of those in just one attack! Nothing he had tried had managed to injure even one of the mages. He didn't even know how many he was up against. All appeared dressed the same way, it could be just twelve, but his instincts said this was bigger. If only there was a way to dent their numbers they might be forced into making a mistake. But swords and armour just can't protect from magic. "Lieutenant, any word from the appeal?" The lieutenant turned to face his captain, resignation on his face at the familiar question. He gave the familiar answer. "No Sir." "We need a mage on our side. Why won't they respond?" he asked for what seemed like the thousandth time. "They are in hiding Sir, either that or so lost in their magic they're no use to anyone - the mages have a word for it, Emflikar I think Sir." "I've a good mind to send a troop to make an example of some of these Emflikars, waste of space the lot of them" the Captain retorted. "With respect, that would only create more fear and hostility from the rest of the mages Sir. Many have pity for the Emflikars, the rest see it as a warning to what might happen to them." "Well we need to do something, I can't keep losing entire garrisons on routine patrols. Everything we've tried so far has failed - even 50 archers couldn't get one lousy arrow off." The captain sighed, and sagged a little more. "Have there been any more public attacks?" he asked. The lieutenant rifled through some papers, plucked out an ominously large section and scanned it quickly. "Many Sir, and they are getting more intense. Reports from across the continent, entire towns are being decimated." "May the Gods help us," the Captain whispered. "Leave me for now, thanks Martin, I need to think for a while," he finished with some remnant of command. "If I may Sir," the lieutenant looked uncharacteristically uncomfortable. "You were around before the mages attacked. What were the good times like?" The captain considered for a second and then realised that this was one of those times he should answer. "Magic wasn't as common, and the little we saw was used to entertain or to help. If you saw a mage fireshow once a year then you were considered lucky. They were quite a sight..." the captain lost himself for a moment and then snapped out of the reverie. "Unfortunately the kind of fireshows we get now tarnish the image a little," he finished sadly. "Thank you Sir." "Dismissed." ~ Click to skip the comments and go straight to Chapter 1 . _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd! Last edited by Smee on Mon May 12, 2008 4:55 am; edited 49 times in total

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Posted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 2:20 pm Post subject:

Oooooh, first post. Now let me read the story and comment. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 3:55 pm Post subject:

Very nice start... I hope to see more.

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Posted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 5:16 pm Post subject:

Glad to see you’re finally joining in the thrill of authoring! Hmmmm, if this makes SGOTM sometime in the future, I wonder if it will be grouped with fantasy or with the BttE? At any rate, I’m excited to see an SG spin-off from the Battle to the End. I look forward to the first chapter and decision point, and have a few comments regarding this introduction. Obviously as the captain has already concluded, swords and armor are not going to be enough. They need mages on their side. With many reluctant to come forward, perhaps an effort to appeal to the families of the Emflikars might prove prudent. Certainly their loved ones want to see them get help, and an offer to assist, clean-up and sober-up the Emflikars in return for a service, might appeal to many to encourage their loved ones to get help. This of course is dependent on time constraints. How feasible would a quickened sobriety be, and how dependable the services of those recovering mages. Is it even possible? With public attacks occurring more frequently, perhaps the appeal for help from the mages should emphasize that more, and generate an interest in solving the problem. Along with a challenge to police not just their own magic, but the magic of others as well. I have listed a few Technicalities _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 10:05 pm Post subject:

Damn! Now I'm going to have to catch up with the BttE stories too! Nice idea for a story, Smee. I've only got one comment on the stylistics. When you wrote: "Magic wasn't as common, and that we saw was used to entertain or to help." It isn't technically wrong, but it's one of those sentences that you have to read back two or three times to decipher properly. The rest of the story flows so well that you might want to go back and see if you can fix that one sentence. As for what comes next... well, I don't want to sound like an actor or anything, but what is (are?) the Mages' motivation(s?) They're presumably not just doing this for kicks? If we can work out what they want, maybe we can negotiate, or at least find a better way to fight against it. <plods off to read the rest of BttE>

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Posted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 12:14 am Post subject: Comments: Intro

Thanks everyone for these early comments. Technicalities have been sorted More will be explained in each chapter as it comes out, but as Fauna mentioned, it is a spin-off from the world of BttE. This is for three reasons. Mainly because so much work has been done on the world creation in background to those stories that it gives me a rich source of inspiration. The second: In it's very essence it is a City of IF creation, with input from many members to make the world exist. This helps me let go of the story with decision points as it isn't my soul creation. The other reason - I like the BttE world This story is set much further back in time than the current BttE and with your help on the decision points, I hope to tell some of the history that has led to the BttE world we have today. As Stoat has pointed out, a working knowledge of the BttE stories will help with some of the terms I use, Emflikar for example - but I try to give at least some help as to the meaning. My aim is for this to be readable as a seperate work, but knowledge of BttE will compliment reading it. Happy Reading. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 5:33 am Post subject: Re: My Storygame : The Time Before

Smee wrote:

No longer will I hide away just giving out the opinions. I open myself up for full public opinion. Let 'er rip - that includes you Marm Smile

Don't be hard on yourself, Mr. Smee, this is a quite credible beginning. You have written some nice exposition and cleverly wrapped it around some passages of a more expository nature. In just 600 words, you have managed to describe an entire war without putting the reader through the trouble of experiencing it or feeling it in any meaningful way. This is no mean feat! With some more practice, I expect that you could achieve the perfectly bloodless and oh-so-English prose that one expects to find in such rip-roaring 'zines as The Economist and the FT.

But children, what is this? Why the hissing, the angry glares, the brandished weapons? Do you perhaps think that your ever-gracious SchoolMarm! has gone too far this time?

I do not criticize Mr. Smee's prose to be cruel, nor to suggest that his writing is inferior to the other fare found on this site (quite the contrary!). I comment on his story precisely because he was brave enough to ask me to, and I would do no less for any of you. Commentary in IF is usually restricted to lists of 'technicalities', as Ms. Fauna so delicately puts it. This is not criticism - it is mere copy-editing! I do not care to make Mr. Smee's writing more correct (although that is a noble goal). My interest is to make his writing better. I applaud him for giving me the opportunity.

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Posted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 5:56 am Post subject:

LOL - Excellent Marm, glad you could stop by. Sorry if you were put to sleep during my lengthy prose, I shall try hard to make it more ...stimulating, next time. This is only an introduction, and very early days in the war. I'm certain subsequent chapters, if you manage to drag your old eyes along the sentences, will satisfy your lust for bloody warfare. Happy Reading. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 8:18 am Post subject:

You have a very unique way or writing that will earn you stripes in the near future Smee. An excellent composition written. It's catchy with the short paragraphs and it was of decent length, quite unlike my story. The Technicalities, ethereal_fauna has addressed. I am glad you are taking your step into writing a storygame. It was of curiosity that I wished to see what talents you were hiding up your sleeves. But, I really think in your story,there should have been more of a plot. If this was just a "quickstart idea", then this does not apply and your story was excellent. Keep writing Smee, and best of luck!

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Posted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 7:17 am Post subject:

awesomeness smee, i look forward to reading your story as time goes on. good start i really like how you are giving us some history on the BttE world.

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Posted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 10:10 am Post subject:

Nice story intro, Smee. Sounds like it'll be a good one. I only found one confusing bit: You stated that there has been 1200 casualties of war thus far, and then later, the Leuitenant asked if the Captain remembered the times before the mages attacked. This implies--I think--that the war has been going on for quite some time now, many years in fact. However, 1200 casualties in a many-year-long war is actually a very low casualty rate. Am I just confused here, or was this a real mistake? Anyways, I like this story a lot. I confess I haven't read any of the BttE stories yet though, but I seem to understand the setting ok already. What she the Captain do? I do not think hostile action against the Enflikars will be of any use. However, something has to be done to sober them up. I think that if they rounded all the Enflikars up together, they might be easier to treat. So, get all the drunk mages to the hospital, ASAP!

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Posted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 10:58 am Post subject:

Hey Dean,

Thanks for stopping by Smile

Quote:

I only found one confusing bit: You stated that there has been 1200 casualties of war thus far, and then later, the Leuitenant asked if the Captain remembered the times before the mages attacked. This implies--I think--that the war has been going on for quite some time now, many years in fact. However, 1200 casualties in a many-year-long war is actually a very low casualty rate.

It could be a mistake, I'll lay out my reasoning and let's see if it is. I hope not, but better to find them now Smile

The captain is only responsible for a relatively small army in one part of the continent. There is a mage problem continent-wide, that has been going on for many years.

The 1200 dead are just those under the command of this captain, in his battle (within the war) with the group of 12 (or more) rogue mages in this area that are destroying his patrols.

He's losing his battle and recieving reports of many other losses in other parts of the world.
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Posted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 12:07 pm Post subject:

Ahhh...that now makes everything as clear as day. Signing Out

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Posted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 6:50 am Post subject:

Coo', that makes sense, Smee. However, why doesn't the Leutenant remember the times before the war? Surely it must take some time to work your way up to Leutenant.... Ha, I'm prolly just missing the background information from the BttE stories! Anyways, nice story. Get a poll up!

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Posted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 7:57 pm Post subject:

SMEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!! You did it!!!! This is the first SG Im rebiewing on my blog... Decision:Where was the decison? Anyhoo, SchoolMarm-Im onto you.

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Posted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 8:29 pm Post subject:

Glad to see you join the ranks of the builders, Smee Appealing to the emflikars and trying to find out what the mages want are both good ideas. Another option is to look for help outside of our government/nation. Are there legends of magic outside the known world, maybe an artifact or god or race that could grant extraordinary power? These are desperate times. A small force dispatched on a quest for magical aid might be our best hope. BTW, I don't agree with SchoolMarm! I liked the character of the captain, and thought you did a good job of conveying the hopelessness of the war through his manner. Happy writing!

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Posted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 9:54 pm Post subject:

Quite a few of you are giving some great ideas for what to do next, and questioning after a decision point/poll. This is an intro, and chapter 1 will be here before the end of the week. A decision point will be in Chapter 1. However, as you've all come up with such good ideas and thoughts, then I will take the comments into account when I write the next few chapters. Thanks Mauddib, and Key - thanks for reading ooh - I just earnt 10 fables _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 4:14 am Post subject:

Way to go, Smee. Make Schoolmarm! eat her harsh words! I'm hooked. From what you've said about Trengin, it doesn't sound like he's ready to join in anything he considers to be a lost cause yet. I think he'd want to help, though, if he can do so without paying too steep a price. What about him accepting the job of training up the emflikars? (always assuming the others can rustle up a few willing souls). It's not front-line work, but it would be a concession... Just a suggestion...

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 4:36 am Post subject:

I must say though the content is excellent, Im dissapointed by the writing. There's awkward tense for the first half of the chapter.

Quote:

It'd been a busy night when Trengin finally made it home to a well deserved bed.

Fair enough,past tense

Quote:

Thoroughly drenched from the storm raging outside he resists the whim to shake himself dry like a dog and settles instead for laying his cloak out over the back of a chair. Wearily he traces a small shape over the cape and steam obediently rises from it, quickly drying the heavy material.

But now its present? This happens often.

Other then that, Im really excited to see what happens next. I fell Trengin should accept the offer, otherwise it won't be much of a SG :biggrin:

Keep it up, and sort out the tense thing.

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 4:39 am Post subject:

Good point Muaddib, I'll have a check through. As far as the decision point goes - as I mentioned - saying 'no' is very viable - leave me to worry about whether it'll be a decent storygame, you worry about what Trengin would do. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 4:42 am Post subject:

Quote:

As far as the decision point goes - as I mentioned - saying 'no' is very viable - leave me to worry about whether it'll be a decent storygame, you worry about what Trengin would do

As Sparta would say, Touche

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 4:49 am Post subject:

Lol - apart from the big grin I put after my comment. Nothing 'touche' about it. I just don't want your worry about the storygame's direction to influence your decision. Hmm, with the past tense thing - I don't think there is a mistake confused - He arrives home after a busy day (the day being in the past) and then takes his cloak off. All that is in the present tense. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd! Last edited by Smee on Tue Oct 18, 2005 11:09 am; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 4:58 am Post subject:

Yayy! First chapter! Let me get a few techies out of the way first With an even larger sigh he remembers the complications involved with levitating and force himself to his feet. (forces) With a hand ready to activate defences, along with several offensive runes running through his mind, he open the front door. (opens) "I'm not joining the group, if you can call it that. How many members do you have in your so called 'Circle'." (question) Now on to the game: I am not convinced that this triangle can accomplish much, other than getting the participants killed. Roah, we’ll be lying next to the soldiers on the battlefield, broken and bled-out and equally as dead. You’ve lofty goals backed by poorly defined notions. And as far as rehabilitation of the Emflikars…another noble sentiment. Why sober the drunken just to send them to certain death? It’s foolish to even think that would work. Sometimes I wish I’d remained on that self-destructive path, orchestrating my own downfall rather than submitting my fate to the whims of circumstance. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 5:11 am Post subject:

Quote:

Quote:
It'd been a busy night when Trengin finally made it home to a well deserved bed.

Should be: It'd been a busy night when Trengin finally makes it home to a well deserved bed.

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 7:44 am Post subject:

I also don't think Trengin would go along with Roah. As Ethereal Fauna pointed out, 3 mages don't stand much chance against the incredible odds, and would most likely just get themselves killed. The way you've portrayed him, Trengin sounds too much like a "save-your-own-ass" kinda guy to foolishly risk his life. He'd need reassurance that Roah's plan is a good one. Rehabilitating the Enflikars? That's a very noble plan, and one that Trengin could be talked into helping with. However, once again, I don't think he's in the business of risking his life for other people. Would rounding up the Enflikars put him in the line of fire? Would he know where to find them, or would he have to wander around looking for them? Are all of the Enflikars guaranteed to be politically against the Sempa? Is there a possibility of a revived Enflikar rising against Trengin and joining the Sempa? These are all variables Trengin would consider. So, all in all, I don't think Trengin is ready to go along with Roah yet. However, he might be persuaded enough to go out alone and see for himself how bad things really are in the outside world. This is what I think Trengin should do for now. Investigate the problem by himself, without Roah's knowledge. Techinal points: The present to past tense thing was only really overly-noticeable to me after the - ~ - mark. Then you adopted past tense completely. A stylistic choice, I'm sure. There were other grammar and spelling mistakes, but I can't see the point in listing them. I tend to find way more mistakes than most, due to my copy-editing training. Which means people would hate me if I ripped their entire story to shreds. So, I won't.

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 12:37 pm Post subject:

I see you following along the lines of Battle to the End with the enflikars and all. I couldn't help noticing, a few missing commas in the early part of the story. And like everyone else is saying, the tense change is a bit odd. I must admit it took me a while to adjust to the present tense in the beginning because I normally write in past. Treg sounds like one of those people that doesn't really want change yet has strong opinions about the events that may or may not influence him. I think to push him, he either needs an something to happen close to him that will open his eyes to taking some action or someone has to persuade him. And from what you have written so far, it looks like the latter option seems to be the way the story is going to go. Maybe peer pressure will persuade Treg to join the group. Your idea of Treg putting down some conditions for joining the group is also, I think, an excellent option. From what I see of Treg, either he needs to be in control of his decision or a group will persuade him. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 3:37 pm Post subject:

I agree with Dean that Trengin is too concerned with his own skin to stick his neck out. But if he does nothing, the Sempa are likely to become stronger and stronger, and eventually they'll come for him. For his own safety's sake, he's got to at least find out if there's a way to stop them. I like the idea of him going out in the world by himself and seeing what's going on, maybe see if there's a way to rouse the emflikars. He should keep in touch with the "Circle" in case they have any useful information or aid for him, but I don't think he should join yet. Too much risk.

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 7:52 pm Post subject:

Hmm, here's what I imagine Trengin doing. He turns Roah down, but as an afterthought, finds out how to contact him. He goes about his business, but makes some excuse to himself to go see an emflikar who he thinks might be responsive to this. If he rouses the emflikar's interest, he sends him off to Roah, and repeats the process. _________________ Abduction! is in the Stasis Hall, but read it anyway! Got a problem? Write to Dear Dotty!

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Posted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 11:44 pm Post subject:

Ok - the chapter has had a going over, and hopefully most of the more brutal tense problems are now sorted. The whole chapter should now be in present tense. Thanks to Powers in particular for helping me with this, but also Muaddib and Dean for their comments. Hopefully I got the problem fixed before SchoolMarm! saw it. As to the much more interesting aspect of your comments: The majority seem to be heading towards a 'no' response, but with a variety of possible alternatives. He's perhaps not as depressed as Fauna suggests, and is quite happy not to have succumbed to the lusts of magic, but it does seem that Roah is struggling to persuade him. Raven, you make some good comments, thanks. The story is infact set completely in the BttE world - and endevours to tell some of the history way before the present BttE time. I made a brief mention of it in a comment earlier in the thread; here With Dean's comments I think a small clarification is needed. I don't think Roah intends to immediately attack all the Sempa alone, especially not in some rush attack on a battlefield. However, you're right, Roah hasn't gotten that point across very well, so in this situation Treng's unenthusiasm is more understandable. Dean also raises some good questions about the Enflikar, that I'm sure will be covered if we encounter them. Merely mages that are drunk on their own power, that fact alone doesn't answer any question about their political persuasion. The Sempa are just as prone to becoming Enflikar as any mage. There is certainly risks involved with helping them. The idea of going off on his own to check the situation out seems a good one, the independant nature of that seems to suit Trengin. But don't let me influence such ideas, I get my chance for input at writing time. Happy Reading _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 10:45 am Post subject:

Poll going up tomorrow _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 11:31 am Post subject:

Quote:

Raven, you make some good comments, thanks. The story is infact set completely in the BttE world - and endevours to tell some of the history way before the present BttE time. I made a brief mention of it in a comment earlier in the thread; here

Well, I figured that it was based off of the BttE world. I sort of skimmed over the comments though, so that is why I missed your mention of it probably.
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Last edited by Ravenwing on Fri Dec 09, 2005 2:49 pm; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 12:45 pm Post subject:

very well done mr smee (one of Smee's RL friends coerced into reading this whilst chatting on MSN )

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Posted: Fri Oct 21, 2005 2:11 am Post subject: Chapter 1 Poll

Ok, the poll is up and it will be open until Sunday. I put 3 days in the poll time, I'm not sure when on Sunday it'll close, so get your vote in quickly. Things look good for the next chapter to appear on Tuesday _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Oct 21, 2005 2:17 am Post subject:

He will refuse to join, but still go out and see the situation for himself. He didn't sound the least bit interested in maintaining any contact with the Circle. If they want him, they'll have to pursue it because I just don't think he's going to. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Oct 21, 2005 2:29 am Post subject:

I voted for going to see what the situation is by himself. It's easy enough to ignore a problem until somebody brings it to your front door. I think he'd feel dissatisfied doing nothing now that he knows how bad it is.

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Posted: Fri Oct 21, 2005 6:47 am Post subject:

I chose the first option, the idea of a 3 person killing machine appeals to me. :biggrin:

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Posted: Fri Oct 21, 2005 8:45 pm Post subject:

Good job Smee, keep working on the quality. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Sun Oct 23, 2005 1:33 pm Post subject:

Excellent, bloody, violent chapter. Raises more questions than it gives answers. A few Technicalities. There's pressure to impress the elders. They obviously expect great things from you, and choosing the easiest task will not please them. The caravan might present a valid option, but even at that you have the reputation of a life-saver, and should probably attempt to take the bridge. You might be held responsible for lives lost there either way, whether you refuse or accept the challenge. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Sun Oct 23, 2005 2:15 pm Post subject:

The town would be easiest, but towns aren't much of a challenge anymore, and I agree that we need to impress the elders with something bigger. The bridge might be better defended than the caravan, but at least it's stationary. In the caravan there are too many moving parts, too much potential for people getting away or things going wrong. So I'm for the bridge.

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Posted: Sun Oct 23, 2005 4:28 pm Post subject: Good

Nice start Smee, good to see you writing! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sun Oct 23, 2005 7:33 pm Post subject:

retch, puke Nice chapter Smee! Hmmm...I think we should go to the bridge.

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Posted: Sun Oct 23, 2005 10:28 pm Post subject:

Good one Smee. One question, before I make my suggestion though. Does Norral know the difficulty rating of these three targets? I'm assuming he knows the town is the easy option, but what about the other two?

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Posted: Sun Oct 23, 2005 10:34 pm Post subject:

Yes he knows, it's something he'd know through experience which is why I told you guys. He's not certain why this bridge is any harder than a town, but he's heard rumours of this Captain that holed up there and the trouble it's caused to the Sempa supplies. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sun Oct 23, 2005 10:44 pm Post subject:

The bridge sounds like a great adventure - more interesting than a town or a caravan... ... but he has a new command, untried and untested. I think he has to exercise a little caution until he gets to know, as a Commander, the people under him. I think he'd go for the caravan, but not without regrets

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Posted: Mon Oct 24, 2005 1:11 am Post subject:

well, i rekon the same as Mr.Stoat. Try the bridge.

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Posted: Mon Oct 24, 2005 3:31 am Post subject:

Ok - The poll is closed for Chapter 1 - a tie as well. As I have mentioned, we will see the resulting effect of this poll on Trengin in Chapter 3 due by Tuesday 1st Nov. We have a tie over the issue of contact with Roah and his 'Circle'. I will be writing it as if Trengin has no desire to be in contact, but the 'Circle' will keep in touch anyway. This hopefully satisfies both voting groups. Happy Reading _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Oct 24, 2005 9:25 am Post subject: Re: Chapter 2

Smee wrote:

Or you can destroy a bridge that one annoying Captain is holding to the south, preventing our own caravans.

I'm definitely picking the bridge, but I have one question. If we need the bridge for our own caravans, do we really want to destroy it?
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Posted: Mon Oct 24, 2005 9:29 am Post subject:

Excellent Powers - you spotted the entirely undeliberate mistake. Runs off to correct to 'Regain control of' _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Oct 24, 2005 6:39 pm Post subject:

This is your first time as a commander, and you don't even know your men. We don't know how ambicious ( or anything else, for that matter) this guy is, so go for the caravan. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2005 11:28 am Post subject:

My thoughts go with fauna's as this most recent chapter being bloody, violent, and brilliant. For this most recent chapter, my vote goes to attacking the caravan. Like Stoat mentioned, Norral has under his command a newly formed squad. It would be totally irrational to go head first into the hardest task just to impress the elders. But to go for such a stationary place like the town, seems too tame. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Wed Oct 26, 2005 6:24 pm Post subject:

Quote:

and brilliant

Dickens=Smee? Shocked

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Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Wed Oct 26, 2005 9:42 pm Post subject:

New poll up tomorrow everyone. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Oct 27, 2005 6:40 am Post subject:

Bridge! Bridge! Not only would it impress your superiors, but I really wanna see what happens to you if someone dies!

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Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2005 8:12 am Post subject:

New poll is up. It will close on Sunday and Norral's next chapter will be posted on the Tues 8th Nov. Happy Voting. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2005 10:16 am Post subject:

Secure the bridge and impress the elders. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2005 4:50 pm Post subject:

My Gosh! I can't believe I been skipping this story. It's awesome! I vote take the bridge. Image is everything! _________________ I'm ripped across the ditch, and settled in the dirt and I'm Wiggled like a stitch, yet I'm the one who's hurt Pay attention to your twisted little indiscretions I've got no right to way, I'm just caught up all the battles

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Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2005 4:56 am Post subject:

yeah i can't believe that i missed this storygame. great work with the violence and the blood. a lot like my new storygame : Johnny and the Nightmare Gloves. (sorry about shamelessy advertising, but i want more fables rofl). im very glad you are writing another storygame and i also vote for the bridge. to D-lotus - love the Dickens remark. i was laughing for ages

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Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2005 5:50 am Post subject:

wow cool story! keep it up!

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Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2005 6:09 am Post subject:

people you've got to think in the minds of both a mage and a strategist the caravan is obviously the best and probabbly easiest bet towns bin done its old and boring and due to the stuff up at the last one it needs a change the bridge would be too bloody and push the main conflict in too quick caravans move yes thats true but only because they are powered by horses use easy non-draining spells to make the horses sick while the workers and defenders are either tending to the horses or removing some of the lugagge to be handled by humans instead of beast have the mages stand around the caravan each one casts a low small and weak forcefield to the next mage so you get a circle pattern, the wall is not really to stop anyone from escaping just to slkow them down enough for the mages to kill them or you could make the horses angry and start attacking the people and while everyone is crowded around trying to controll them a small forcefieled around them burn everything within the circle except for one person two very easy and straightforward ways to win another would be a small cloud of noxious or poisenous gasses while everyone in keiling over sick strike so many possiblities

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Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2005 6:18 am Post subject:

Oooh - 4 new readers all in a few hours - excellent. Welcome guys, and some good plans Sax. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2005 7:01 am Post subject:

hahaha i just cant wait to find a spelling error to use against you

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Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2005 7:41 pm Post subject:

I voted to capture the bridge, probably because I recently saw the episode of LOST where Hurley crosses the bridge.... :biggrin: jiggles jiggless jiggggleeeesss haahahahahahahahah

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Posted: Sun Oct 30, 2005 3:31 am Post subject:

shakes his head people wont learn about warfare like i wont learn about spelling and grammer

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Posted: Sun Oct 30, 2005 9:02 am Post subject:

saxon215 wrote:

*shakes his head* people wont learn about warfare like i wont learn about spelling and grammer

Actually, saxon, you convinced me, but I'd already voted for the bridge. Smile

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Posted: Sun Oct 30, 2005 9:30 am Post subject:

The poll is closed and Norral will choose the bridge. You are all going to have your work cut out keeping the team alive. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Oct 31, 2005 11:14 am Post subject:

Nice chapter, Smee. Good job with getting Trengin into so much trouble in so little time I don't think he needs to stay in this town much longer. It's Frenquath he needs to be investigating, if he's looking into the Sempa situation. However, if he can get himself some less stand-outish clothes on the way out of town, it will certainly help his chances with other scared and angry citizens. I think he can risk a long enough delay for that. The only thing I don't like is that I've got to wait two weeks to find out what happens next!

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Posted: Mon Oct 31, 2005 11:16 am Post subject:

Ah - but next week you get the Bridge attack. Happy Reading. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Oct 31, 2005 11:31 am Post subject:

Hmm..an interesting situation. I agree that our eventual goal should be to check out Frenquath. We need to know what we're up against. But in the meantime, I think we should risk a spell trying to stop the thief and prevent a scene. There's some kind of talisman nearby that caused us to feel lost here. We should try to figure out what it is and why it's here. The thief may or may not know something, but in any case if he runs into the street and causes a commotion, we're going to lose all our chance of finding anything out - we'll be too busy trying to avoid the guards and get out of town. So I'd hit the thief with a sleep spell, or something else that will keep him quiet and still to be questioned later.

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Posted: Mon Oct 31, 2005 12:42 pm Post subject:

Sod it, just leave town before any scene happens. It's doubtful that the commotion caused by the amulet can be traced to you anyways, and the thief most likely won't offer up the information on where he got it from. This little trip into town has turned out more trouble than it's worth. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon Oct 31, 2005 2:43 pm Post subject:

Yeah, but aren't you curious what magic talisman has just tried to confuse us? If there's magic involved, it may have something to do with the Sempa. Maybe this town's next, and there's a spy checking out the defenses.

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Posted: Mon Oct 31, 2005 2:56 pm Post subject:

Yes, but by sticking around you are almost automatically assured to become involved. I'd rather find out more about what's going on, on my own terms and from a secure distance, than wait around and be thrust into the midst of something. If I'd wanted to jump right in I'd have joined the Circle. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon Oct 31, 2005 5:21 pm Post subject: Nice

Very nice story Smee, lots of detailed touches, and I like the pictures, they really add to the atmosphere! As for the wizard, I am of two minds. Firstly, don't mages have a good standing in the town? I am of two minds (not very helpful I know, but there you go). First, just leave the thief and get on with his plan. The amulet is something that could be replaced. However, it may be interesting to find out WHY a thief picked the pocket of a mage, surely it would not be considered a safe target? I would have thought he could cast a befuddlement spell on a problem guard or something, but I don't know his spell-casting methods. So, in short. I don't know! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Mon Oct 31, 2005 10:36 pm Post subject:

Mages used to have good standing, but not since the attacks became more frequent. Those who haven't experienced the Sempa are pretty indifferent and barely notice. The average town citizen probably wouldn't even recognise his clothes as a mage unless they really stared at him. However, the soldiers would have been briefed of Frenquath's fate and are much more wary of mages. Most are in hiding or are Sempa, so it's healthy paranoia. The thief perhaps just saw his cloak and presumed he had something worth stealing. Or he knew it was a mage and wanted to try for any magical artififacts that he had. Or maybe he is a spy for the Sempa, testing the defences. Trengin doesn't know. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Nov 01, 2005 1:35 am Post subject:

Ah, well good information, but I still can't decide! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue Nov 01, 2005 2:18 am Post subject:

im with you on this one key lets find that little theif and spell him up real good before it causes a problem

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Posted: Tue Nov 01, 2005 9:01 pm Post subject:

He can't get away clean - if he ignores the thief, there will be a disturbance and the guards will remember him. I don't see the downside to trying to stop the thief - if he fails, it's just another disturbance. _________________ Abduction! is in the Stasis Hall, but read it anyway! Got a problem? Write to Dear Dotty!

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Posted: Wed Nov 02, 2005 12:57 am Post subject:

Exactly, some sort of disturbance either way, so just git while the git'n is good, clean or no. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Wed Nov 02, 2005 2:37 am Post subject:

hahaha well said fauna

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Posted: Wed Nov 02, 2005 2:47 am Post subject:

I do try. Our guy sounds non-confrontational...he has avoidance issues. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Wed Nov 02, 2005 10:22 am Post subject:

ethereal_fauna wrote:

Exactly, some sort of disturbance either way, so just git while the git'n is good, clean or no.

But if the spell works, there's no disturbance. We get to play it cool and we might find something out. Might as well give it a shot, I say.

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Posted: Wed Nov 02, 2005 7:20 pm Post subject:

I'll read the new chapter when I have time...thats a promise... _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Wed Nov 02, 2005 10:22 pm Post subject:

Poll goes up tomorrow guys. Last day for ideas. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2005 3:14 am Post subject:

Key wrote:

ethereal_fauna wrote:

Exactly, some sort of disturbance either way, so just git while the git'n is good, clean or no.

But if the spell works, there's no disturbance. We get to play it cool and we might find something out. Might as well give it a shot, I say.

If the spell doesn't work? If whatever or whoever interfered with your judgement in the first place, acts again? Then there is a disturbance that you're obviously part of.
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Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2005 4:36 am Post subject:

I think 'we' are over-analysing this! Still... If the thief starts vomiting and whatnot, and Trengin has already legged it to a suitable distance I doubt a city guard is really going to put the two together. Even if they do, they probably won't be bothered enough to search the city from top to bottom, giving themseleves more work in the process. That said, I still can't decide. Bah. Old age and senility. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2005 11:37 am Post subject:

Ok, after much discussion (Some of which had to be directed elsewhere ) it seems to basically boil down to two directly opposing options. Try and stop the thief Vs Sod it and leave town It's a tough one, so you've got an extra day to think about it. So let the battle begin - who will win _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2005 12:07 pm Post subject:

I go for leaving town. He's out to find out what's going on, not to get ambushed.

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Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2005 12:20 pm Post subject:

Stop thief! Stop thief! _________________ Abduction! is in the Stasis Hall, but read it anyway! Got a problem? Write to Dear Dotty!

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Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2005 1:58 pm Post subject:

Smee wrote:

Ok, after much discussion (Some of which had to be directed elsewhere Wink

) it seems to basically boil down to two directly opposing options.

Uh, yeah, sorry about that little discussion. *blush*

At any rate, I still say sod it.
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Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2005 4:09 pm Post subject:

Leave town before the trouble starts and try another one.

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Posted: Thu Nov 03, 2005 5:06 pm Post subject:

Finally made my mind up and voted to risk a spell. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sat Nov 05, 2005 6:11 am Post subject:

Lol - with a day to go it's neck and neck. There's plenty more potential voters out there - come in and make the difference. Happy Voting. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd! Last edited by Smee on Sun Nov 06, 2005 3:56 am; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Sat Nov 05, 2005 6:22 am Post subject:

Forget the bloody thief. Not worth the trouble.

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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 10:11 am Post subject:

Wow! What do we have in the way of armored ships? Anything that could safely get us inside the shield where our magic could work?

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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 10:56 am Post subject:

Oh-kaaaay! One question. When the mages say they've tried assaulting the bridge with all kinds of magic, does that include magic that they've used on themselves? I'm thinking particularly of invisibility, illusion, things like that...?

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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 11:45 am Post subject:

I'm expecting questions so keep them coming. I knew they'd be many details I hadn't thought of.

Quote:

What do we have in the way of armored ships

The Sempa don't have any ships available here - the river is too far inland to get a large ship upstream from the sea.

That doesn't mean some sort of water based approach isn't an option though.

Quote:

When the mages say they've tried assaulting the bridge with all kinds of magic, does that include magic that they've used on themselves?

I'm thinking particularly of invisibility, illusion, things like that...?

Invisibility wasn't tried, but in these olden times, such a spell hasn't been discovered yet. In modern BttE times it is still rare although a few mages have accomplished it in a multitude of ways, each to varying degrees of success.

Illusions weren't tried - there's an assumption that they'd just fizzle out and disappear on contact with the shield but it could be worth a try.

They only had time to try the direct attack before the red glow gave them away and they had to retreat.
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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 11:48 am Post subject:

Underground? Overground? Flight? Tunneling? headache coming on...

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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 12:51 pm Post subject:

Smee wrote:

"You are probably wondering why this has prevented us taking control before now...The bridge was imbued with a powerful magical shield...This circular shield is impervious to any magical forces we have yet conceived and stretches over a wide area."

Now he tells us. Wall Bash

OK, lots of questions and thoughts. First of all, just so that I understand: the shield prevents the passage of magic spells, but we can walk right through it and then cast magic that will affect those inside, right? That's what it seemed like from the report of the attack 1000 years ago. If that's true, the best plan may be to get inside stealthily and then take out the soldiers from the inside as quickly as possible.

In any case, we need to know more about the shield: if we had protective or disguise spells on (maybe a more primitive version of invisibility?), could we go through without the shield disrupting them? I'd also like to know if we've tried any kind of mental magic: for example, could we confuse or entrance the soldiers through the shield (or do those spells even exist?) And of course, we need to know the physical limits of the shield: Does it go below-ground or in the air? Is it a sphere?

What's the timeline on the attack? Can we do additional researches on the shield if we need to?

Next, we need to know the capabilities of the mages, particularly the water-mage. Can he do something that will allow us to breathe underwater? If so, we might want to go in via the river. How much water can he create? Could he flood the bridge, drowning the soldiers or forcing them outside the shield?

Protective magics are also going to be key. If we're going to do battle inside the shield, close to the soldiers, we're going to need magic that will keep their attacks at bay until we can finish them off. There are hundreds and we can't count on being able to see every arrow-shot like we did before, so we'll going to need some kind of armor magic that will ward off arrows and sword-blows. Are there magical artifacts in this world, like a cloak or ring or protection?

A fire mage is probably not too useful for attacking a river encampment. What else do we have? Anyone who can cast a silence or darkness spell? What about scrying or far-seeing? Death spells would be nice given the "kill but do not destroy" aspect of this mission. How about conjured monsters? Could they pass through the shield?

If we can pull this off, great glory will be ours. :twisted:

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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 1:54 pm Post subject:

Quote:

First of all, just so that I understand: the shield prevents the passage of magic spells, but we can walk right through it and then cast magic that will affect those inside, right?

Correct

Basically once you are through the barrier it's the same as a town. Death everywhere. Surprised

Quote:

if we had protective or disguise spells on (maybe a more primitive version of invisibility?), could we go through without the shield disrupting them? I'd also like to know if we've tried any kind of mental magic: for example, could we confuse or entrance the soldiers through the shield (or do those spells even exist?) And of course, we need to know the physical limits of the shield: Does it go below-ground or in the air? Is it a sphere?

Disguise spells are much the same as illusion. Illusions are untested against the shield (see earlier comment).

Mental magic is pretty much restricted to music based mages like Jakeen in modern day BttE - the sound creeping into the mind to effect it. The Sempa don't have any mages with a gift for music.

However, Norral will know of such magics and could always appeal to his team to give it a try. The sound would pass the shield, but whether the magic in the sound would be stopped is untested.

The shield is a full dome - reaching above the height of the keep.

The field squad got an idea of the height by hitting it with a bolt of lightning - it came from the sky and hit the highest point.

It extends to the waterbed but whether it goes underground is unknown. Every stone has the magics in them though, including the foundations - it could well be protected.

Quote:

What's the timeline on the attack? Can we do additional researches on the shield if we need to?

The faster the more impressed the Elders will be. There's no reason you can't attack and retreat a few times to try and get some ideas. But be warned, Captain Hunt isn't likely to sit there whilst you experiment.

Quote:

Next, we need to know the capabilities of the mages, particularly the water-mage. Can he do something that will allow us to breathe underwater? If so, we might want to go in via the river. How much water can he create? Could he flood the bridge, drowning the soldiers or forcing them outside the shield?

The water mage has spent all his life studying the flow of water. He can't help with underwater breathing, and he doesn't manifest water, but manipulate it. He could probably do some interesting things, but it's doubtful he could flood the whole bridge.

The other mages are all experts at killing - anything similar to the sorts of deaths described in Chapter 2 are available to them. The same applies to a lesser degree to the sorts of spells you've seen in BttE - although cruder.

Quote:

Protective magics are also going to be key. If we're going to do battle inside the shield, close to the soldiers, we're going to need magic that will keep their attacks at bay until we can finish them off. There are hundreds and we can't count on being able to see every arrow-shot like we did before, so we'll going to need some kind of armor magic that will ward off arrows and sword-blows. Are there magical artifacts in this world, like a cloak or ring or protection?

As you will have noted from the research - commiting two mages to a shield will protect all 12 of you from arrows so long as you don't stray apart.

If you want to split the group to attack from multiple places, then shielding will get more complicated.

A shield can't pass through the barrier shield either. It will be disrupted like any magical force. If you want to pass through then you have to do so vulnerable and quickly recast a shield once you are through.

Magical artifacts can be found in the world, but you don't really have time for an extended mission to try and find a artifact that helps with shielding. If the Sempa had one available the Leader would have given it to you.

Quote:

What else do we have? Anyone who can cast a silence or darkness spell? What about scrying or far-seeing? Death spells would be nice given the "kill but do not destroy" aspect of this mission. How about conjured monsters? Could they pass through the shield?

Silence would probably hinder any of your team that use mainly vocal runes - but such a spell is possible.

Darkness is certainly possible - but again will hinder your team as it will effect an area regardless of who's in it.

Far-seeing isn't possible, if you want to scout around you will have to do it the old fashioned way.

Death spells have already been covered - the heart exploding in chest spell causes death pretty quickly, but you'll probably be looking for more wide ranging kills otherwise your team will run out of energy before they run out of men.

Conjuring monsters is magic in it's infancy. The Leader is reputed to be the most accomplished at spells of this nature, having spent much of his life studying in this field. Common mages, including Norral can't do such things.

Some excellent thoughts - thanks Key.

Happy Planning. Very Happy

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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 2:19 pm Post subject:

How about building a raft enclosed with logs. The fire mage and water mage could work together to burn the logs to the right size then they could be assembled by everyone. It should be big enough to go halfway through the shield with the water mage staying inside the raft on the other side ready to pull the raft out if needed.

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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 2:25 pm Post subject:

Am I understanding correctly in thinking that two of the Mages that helped draw the map - you know, the one with the convenient ink smudge - are possible members of our team? If I'm correct, surely they'd know what the south-bank-of-the-river smudge-feature was before we made a mess of it?

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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 2:49 pm Post subject:

Smee wrote:

No, he sounds like a dangerous opponent. We're going to have to take him by surprise in one battle - we don't want him to know what we're thinking of. But if there are things we need to know and we can spy them out without being detected, it might be worthwhile.

Smee wrote:

If he can manipulate water, can he keep it moved to the sides underwater to maintain a bubble of air around us?

If he can, or if there's some other way we can exist underwater, we can walk up the riverbed at night, swim through the shield and cast our own shield and disguise spells where no one can see us, and then emerge and start killing.

One problem with that idea is that since we have to stick together for safety, it will be hard to make sure that none of the enemy escape. There are a lot of them and they can run away in lots of directions, so it will be hard to hunt them all down. We could keep some mages outside the shield to stop the survivors, but that will make our main force weaker and will also risk the ones who are split off, since they wouldn't be shielded. Can we create some kind of magical wall or trap outside the shield? How long could we make that kind of spell last?

Some thoughts on a completely different kind of plan: what if we created or levitated some dangerous objects over the bridge, and then dropped them? Burning trees, boiling oil, acid, poisonous snakes - these would all fall right through the shield as long as they weren't magical, right? Maybe we should think about dropping something in there to soften the soldiers up, and then walking in and finishing the job.

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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 6:07 pm Post subject:

Nicely done Smee. Okay then... Essentially the problem is that magic can't penetrate the shield, but also the bridge is resistant to spells. The main objective is to kill everyone inside. SO a few approaches suggest themselves: 1. Lure as many of the soldiers OUTSIDE as you can, by some means (lure, decoy, dunno) and kill them there. 2. Stealth and cunning: Cut off their supplies. How long can they survive in there? In fact you wouldn't have to cut them off until they all starved, but just to weaken them. Probably not the best thing as it would take too long. HOWEVER you should isolate them some time before the attack. 3. If spells won't work try something else. Disease, fire etc attached to a boudler and fired through would still work maybe? 4. I had the same idea as Key, get the mages in underwater (still maybe possible) and then attack from inside as usual. 5. Another way in maybe would be to kill a squad of re-enforcements on their way into the bridge, disguise the mages (non-magically) and once inside let loose the dragons of war. Probably a combination of the above, in some form, would work best. If you get the troops inside though, make sure you cover the exits to prevent any escaping. How is the shield powered? Maybe you could sneak one man/mage inside and de-activate the thing? Finally, the report suggests there is a way to use magic through the shield. Any way of finding out how they did it last time? Phew. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sun Nov 06, 2005 6:56 pm Post subject:

Good chapter. We could distract them by having one mage shoot some firebolts or something from far away. When they see the red thing, they will rush to that side, leaving the rest of the team clear to walk inside and do their thing. Going on what Key said, we could drop a huge boulder when they don't expect it and kill a large number. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2005 4:37 am Post subject:

First off, what you don’t know can hurt you, so track down the members of that test squad and find out what the smudged map features hold. From there assess the situation further. If you get inside the shield then you can use your magic (from the diary) The weakest areas open along the waterway (from the map) although with archers that is only a small advantage. Might be better to stay off the water and on solid ground, allowing more maneuverability. Depending on their stores (over a year of food!) starving them out most likely isn’t a viable option. Neither is anything that might destroy the bridge. Unleashing some sort of poisonous creatures or attack will also hinder you in the end, probably making the effort more difficult for you without necessarily weakening them. You don’t want to attack as a cluster, grouped under a shield. That reduces your force to one large target instead several smaller but deadly ones. Foolish to set your team up to get wiped out with one blow. Also, as Key mentioned, the potential for some of the soldiers to escape exists. Who could get inside and attempt to disable the shield? If it can be reactivated, then it can certainly be deactivated again. I’m sure the secret is tightly kept, and if the Sempa had someone in a position to find out they would have already done so and availed you the knowledge. You want to assemble a well-rounded team. Specializations are crucial and favor an attack more than undefined skills, and with twelve members your team should easily encompass those who will provide attacking force and those who will provide supportive efforts. Something else to consider: hire mercenaries to go inside the shield and engage in hand-to-hand combat. Many people will do the wrong things for the right price, and since they are expendable you can always eliminate them after the deal is done. A strike team inside the shield will open a window for your mages to get inside. I like the idea of levitating burning logs or rocks over the bridge and dropping them in. Combining such an attack with an onslaught of hired mercenaries should adequately distract the soldiers inside and allow your mages to sneak in through the shield in varied locations, and from that point regroup and do what they do best. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2005 5:10 am Post subject:

Now we are getting somewhere. Some very good thoughts there.

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Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2005 11:44 am Post subject:

ethereal_fauna wrote:

First off, what you don’t know can hurt you, so track down the members of that test squad and find out what the smudged map features hold. From there assess the situation further.

Definitely agree with this.

ethereal_fauna wrote:

You don’t want to attack as a cluster, grouped under a shield. That reduces your force to one large target instead several smaller but deadly ones. Foolish to set your team up to get wiped out with one blow.

I don't agree with this. The leader has made it clear that we can't have even one casualty. The best chance to avoid that is to remain together under heavy magical shielding. If we split up there are more targets for the soldiers and shielding is much more difficult (which may also mean we have less offensive force, since we have to devote more mages for shielding).

We might need to split up to prevent the soldiers from escaping. But if we can hem them in with magical walls or traps, or if we have some mages whose magic allows them to chase or track easily, it's better to do that and stay together.

ethereal_fauna wrote:

You want to assemble a well-rounded team. Specializations are crucial and favor an attack more than undefined skills, and with twelve members your team should easily encompass those who will provide attacking force and those who will provide supportive efforts.

Agree with this too. But we may not have too much variety to choose from. There's no invisibility, mental magic, or summoning. Transformation magic might be helpful (wouldn't it be easy to swim up the river as fish?), although only if the transformation held when you passed through the shield, which is questionable.

It looks like we'll have both physical offense and defense, though, which are useful. Healing might be nice too, just in case, but I don't know if our people study that.

ethereal_fauna wrote:

Something else to consider: hire mercenaries to go inside the shield and engage in hand-to-hand combat.

It's an interesting idea, but I don't think we should do it for two reasons:

- It's risky. Trying to arrange payment and recruit soldiers is something that could easily draw attention to us. And the mercs can't be depended on - just as they would join us for a price, they could also sell us out for a price. If this captain is smart (and he seems to be) he's got spies in the surrounding towns paid to let him know of any unusual activity. Just traveling to the area as a group we run the risk of detection. If we try to recruit an army, the risk is much, much greater.

- We're the Sempa. The whole point of our attacks is to terrorize the enemy and overwhelm him with the power of our magic. If word gets around that we had to pay soldiers to help us fight, it undermines the impact of the victory.

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Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2005 1:56 pm Post subject:

Ok - a fair amount of business to get through...

First off, the poll is closed on Trengin's spot of trouble. You have decided to attempt to stop the thief before he causes a disturbance.

The result of your vote will form Chapter 5; due out Tuesday 15th November.

Now back to the current chapter...

Quote:

If I'm correct, surely they'd know what the south-bank-of-the-river smudge-feature was before we made a mess of it?

They sure do - and others have suggested seeking them out as an urgent first call.

Quote:

How about building a raft enclosed with logs. The fire mage and water mage could work together to burn the logs to the right size then they could be assembled by everyone. It should be big enough to go halfway through the shield with the water mage staying inside the raft on the other side ready to pull the raft out if needed.

There's a good idea in there somewhere. Elaborate a little and I'll make it a poll option. Very Happy

Quote:

If he can manipulate water, can he keep it moved to the sides underwater to maintain a bubble of air around us?

You've never met him, so you just don't know this level of detail. From your own knowledge of water magics it seems impossible, but he's the specialist.

Quote:

Can we create some kind of magical wall or trap outside the shield? How long could we make that kind of spell last?

Yes - a magical wall is very feasible. Norral himself is pretty good at them, using two walls to squash the life out of a group of children most effectively.

A single mage could create a wall in front of himself extending sideways about 100 metres either side, and hold it fairly easily for about an hour; two would see him on the edge of exhaustion.

The inherent magic property of the wall means it can't be used as a shield against arrows. It only blocks slow moving things like people. Anything moving faster than the average person can throw would pass through unrestrained.

Shields work in reverse, preventing fast moving and (fast or slow) magical attacks but can't prevent someone walking through. The size is significantly smaller though - a radius of about 15 metres.

Which is why two mages are required to adequately provide a shield against all attacks for the whole group.

A group of three mages would be able to move as a single unit capable of attacking whilst being completely shielded, but no smaller without some sacrifice to shielding.

A single mage can shield himself, and, if it is concentrated to a small area just around himself, he can cast both a wall and a shield at the same time. His attack capabilites will be severly restricted though. Again about 2 hours at most.

Quote:

what if we created or levitated some dangerous objects over the bridge, and then dropped them? Burning trees, boiling oil, acid, poisonous snakes - these would all fall right through the shield as long as they weren't magical, right? Maybe we should think about dropping something in there to soften the soldiers up, and then walking in and finishing the job.

Great idea - one of the few of these multitude of thoughts I actually had myself.

No reason why you'd have to rely on gravity for your speed. It might be worth attempting to accelerate it with magic and see if that gets through.

Quote:

1. Lure as many of the soldiers OUTSIDE as you can, by some means (lure, decoy, dunno) and kill them there.

What might lure them out? It's a great idea if you can, but you'd need to completely convince them there are no mages around to get them to leave their magic protection. And fool Captain Hunt. Shocked

Quote:

Cut off their supplies. How long can they survive in there? In fact you wouldn't have to cut them off until they all starved, but just to weaken them. Probably not the best thing as it would take too long. HOWEVER you should isolate them some time before the attack.

Not feasible. They have far too many supplies and a water supply.

Quote:

5. Another way in maybe would be to kill a squad of re-enforcements on their way into the bridge, disguise the mages (non-magically) and once inside let loose the dragons of war.

Possible.

Quote:

How is the shield powered? Maybe you could sneak one man/mage inside and de-activate the thing?

Entirely possible. However it could be a simple switch, or it could be a 5 hour ceremony, requiring incantations read from whichever source Captain Hunt found out about the Shield. You don't know.

Quote:

We could distract them by having one mage shoot some firebolts or something from far away. When they see the red thing, they will rush to that side, leaving the rest of the team clear to walk inside and do their thing

It's not that big a bridge. There are more than enough men everywhere without them having to rush anywhere at the first sign of trouble. It'd have to be one hell of a distraction. Shocked

Quote:

Healing might be nice too, just in case, but I don't know if our people study that.

Nothing more than a bruise.

I think that covers most of it...

Happy Plotting. Smile

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Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2005 2:03 pm Post subject:

On walls/shields: is one of them impermeable to air? We could use projectiles to start a fire, then create a wall surrounding their shield (how big a wall could 13 of us make?) and let them asphyxiate in there. _________________ Abduction! is in the Stasis Hall, but read it anyway! Got a problem? Write to Dear Dotty!

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Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2005 3:48 pm Post subject:

Okay, scrap the hired hands then, and lets go with our baker's dozen of mages. All we have to do is get inside that magical barrier and then the soldiers are toast. Let's get our mages together, earth and wind...think something like the mega sandstorm in the movie The Mummy. With a massive wall of sand in front of us to conceal our approach, we don't have fear of archers engaging us. We walk through the barrier following our protective sandstorm, and once inside kick their asses. :biggrin: _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2005 6:33 pm Post subject:

ethereal_fauna wrote:

Okay, scrap the hired hands then, and lets go with our baker's dozen of mages.

All we have to do is get inside that magical barrier and then the soldiers are toast. Let's get our mages together, earth and wind...think something like the mega sandstorm in the movie The Mummy. With a massive wall of sand in front of us to conceal our approach, we don't have fear of archers engaging us. We walk through the barrier following our protective sandstorm, and once inside kick their asses. :biggrin:

Brute force approach. Simple and easy. I like it.
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Posted: Mon Nov 07, 2005 9:45 pm Post subject:

The Powers That Be wrote:

On walls/shields: is one of them impermeable to air? We could use projectiles to start a fire, then create a wall surrounding their shield (how big a wall could 13 of us make?) and let them asphyxiate in there.

Great idea! A variation: we dam up the river with a wall that's impervious to water, and drown them.

ethereal_fauna wrote:

Let's get our mages together, earth and wind...think something like the mega sandstorm in the movie The Mummy. With a massive wall of sand in front of us to conceal our approach, we don't have fear of archers engaging us. We walk through the barrier following our protective sandstorm, and once inside kick their asses.

That's good, too. We can't create the sandstorm through the shield, but as long as we start the wind outside, it should blow the sand through and still obscure their vision.

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Posted: Tue Nov 08, 2005 9:03 am Post subject:

Quote:

A variation: we dam up the river with a wall that's impervious to water, and drown them.

A normal wall would hold the non-moving water. However, the constant pressure from the huge weight would drain a mage in a few minutes. Combined a few could hold for longer, but they'd be effectively down and out for the rest of the battle.

However, if it works well you wouldn't need them.

A risk, like anything else.
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Posted: Tue Nov 08, 2005 10:29 am Post subject:

Smee wrote:

A normal wall would hold the non-moving water. However, the constant pressure from the huge weight would drain a mage in a few minutes.

What about the original idea? Can we make a wall that's impervious to air?

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Posted: Tue Nov 08, 2005 11:41 am Post subject:

Quote:

Neither, as both are usually used to protect mages - and air is needed.

A force to seal out air is possible, quite a nasty way to kill someone if you have the time. 13 of you would be able to create a shield big enough to cover the entire shield, but you'd have to be standing in the middle of the bridge to cast it. You can't project it that far ahead of you.

Another possibility would to spread the mages in a circle around the bridge (meaning half would have to cross the river) and then you could do it.

But, if you wanted to stop the soldiers just running out of the air bubble, you'd need an equal sized wall.
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Posted: Wed Nov 09, 2005 10:50 pm Post subject:

The poll goes up tomorrow. Last call for ideas, thoughts and plans. Happy Planning _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 12:02 am Post subject:

Poll is now up - you have until the end of Sunday to vote. Some options are for likely to work than others, so read through the discussion and choose wisely. May the attack go well. Happy Voting. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 12:14 am Post subject:

Voted for the sandstorm option. I like it 'cos it is simple and easy, a bit like me! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 12:55 am Post subject:

I don't really like any of these I think first order of business is to find out what's on that map that we smudged. And I still think going in underwater is the best idea. If we have the magic to create a wall that will dam up the river, we ought to be able to create a wall that will preserve a bubble of air around us. Given the choices, I picked creating a water craft. We need to be stealthy, and going via the water is the best way to do that. The sandstorm is going to be seen ahead of time, and that will give them time to anticipate and react, not to mention that they might have laid traps at the entrances. Besides, what's to prevent them from running away? In a sandstorm, we wouldn't be able to see them or cut off their escape.

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 1:21 am Post subject:

I've added a new option. If either of you want to change your vote then let me know. If only one of you (Key) wants to change then I'll use my vote to choose that option and we can discount one from the option you chose. As far as the smudge - I think it's universal that everyone wants to know what it is, and Norral will make that a priority to find out. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 1:24 am Post subject:

OK, thanks I'd like to change my vote to the underwater entry.

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 1:37 am Post subject:

I'm going for Key's option too. It may not work, but it seems to be the only one with surprise on its side.

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 3:26 am Post subject:

I went with the sandstorm. I just don't see the soldiers running away at a sudden freak sandstorm, and it's not likely to be coming from a great distance (after all the Sempa have gotten close enough to test the shield before). A brief flash to get you as a group through the barrier, and then it's killing just like always. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 6:14 am Post subject:

Lets try the sandstorm to get in. (Any chance of having two mages on the other side to block off the exit)?

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 6:28 am Post subject:

Right, last call? Distraction. You said one hell of a distraction, and the 13 mages for the Air Wall spell could be put to good use by invoking the Holocaust spell in the general area. It would usually only take 7, so the other 6 could add the incantation to redirect the strikes coming their way back towards the enemy... Normally moving large objects and effects would be difficult, but not if you know the exact invocation used for the spell. You'd have your distraction: people in the path of general doom don't concentrate very well...

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 8:31 am Post subject:

Sorry Hyperion - too many people have voted now to add a new option in. There has been 4 days since I said it for the idea to be expanded on. If I can I'll try and incorporate the idea into the chapter - the general idea is to cause confusion anyway. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 11:38 am Post subject:

ethereal_fauna wrote:

I went with the sandstorm. I just don't see the soldiers running away at a sudden freak sandstorm, and it's not likely to be coming from a great distance (after all the Sempa have gotten close enough to test the shield before). A brief flash to get you as a group through the barrier, and then it's killing just like always.

And what if they've built a brick wall running along the shield perimeter? If I were the captain that's what I'd do, especially if I knew that the Sempa were testing my defenses.

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 12:42 pm Post subject:

Key wrote:

And what if they've built a brick wall running along the shield perimeter? If I were the captain that's what I'd do, especially if I knew that the Sempa were testing my defenses.

So our mages scouted out the barrier, drafted a map, indicated enemy fortifications as troops, and failed to mention a brick wall? Then first we need to rid ourselves of those dumb-asses amongst us, and then enter under cover of a sandstorm, blow through the brick wall (or is it now conveniently located where we'd have to use powder instead of magic, right on the barrier?) and then kill the enemy.

If we're on or in the water, we are below the enemy, disadvantaged against them and their archers, open targets in an expanse of liquid backdrop. So much more potential for things to go amiss.
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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 4:13 pm Post subject:

I voted for attack from a distance! Can't wait for the next chapter _________________ I'm ripped across the ditch, and settled in the dirt and I'm Wiggled like a stitch, yet I'm the one who's hurt Pay attention to your twisted little indiscretions I've got no right to way, I'm just caught up all the battles

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 6:55 pm Post subject:

I went with dristacting them by throwing boulders etc over them. Th sandstorm is a good idea, but they could just shoot arrows randomly to where the sandstorm is coming through and they would probably get us before we could get our shields up. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Fri Nov 11, 2005 10:29 pm Post subject:

ethereal_fauna wrote:

So our mages scouted out the barrier, drafted a map, indicated enemy fortifications as troops, and failed to mention a brick wall?

Or they built the brick wall after our mages gave themselves away testing the defenses (which we know they did).

Quote:

enter under cover of a sandstorm, blow through the brick wall (or is it now conveniently located where we'd have to use powder instead of magic, right on the barrier?) and then kill the enemy.

We know that they've activated the shield and put fortifications all along it, so at the time our scouts went out there they already had a pretty good idea of what the shield does and where it is. Since our mages were seen casting spells directly into the wall and having them fizzle, it's a pretty safe bet that now they know exactly what the shield does and where it is.

If you were a smart captain sitting in a shield impervious to magic but which mages could walk right through, where would you build a brick wall? Inside the shield, where the mages could walk up and blow it away once they were inside? Outside the shield, where they could blow it away from a distance?

If you were smart you'd build it right on the wall, close enough so that there'd be no way a mage could fit between the wall and the shield, but not outside where it would be vulnerable. That would indeed be the most convenient location for you, and the most inconvenient for your enemy.

Maybe the captain's not that smart (though everything we've heard suggests that he is). Maybe he doesn't know the exact dimensions of the shield (though he somehow figured out how to turn it on). Maybe he couldn't build the wall in time. There are lots of lucky breaks we might catch to find the defenses weak. But do you want to stake the attack on them?

Quote:

If we're on or in the water, we are below the enemy, disadvantaged against them and their archers, open targets in an expanse of liquid backdrop. So much more potential for things to go amiss.

The key to any plan is getting inside the shield and able to cast our own shield spells before we are hurt. If we do this stealthily, underwater, it won't matter whether we're below them or above them, it won't matter what kind of targets we are. They can shoot all they want and their arrows will bounce off.

Things can always go amiss. But our chances are better when we attack stealthily, from a direction unexpected and hard to defend against, than when we go in guns blazing.

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Posted: Sat Nov 12, 2005 3:27 pm Post subject:

One more day of voting. Get your opinion in - it could change the entire story. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Nov 12, 2005 9:50 pm Post subject:

looks like a tie _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 5:02 am Post subject:

OK the poll is closed. It was close, but Norral will attempt to attack with the sandstorm plan. Look out for this chapter on Tuesday 22nd November (just before the end of SGOTM poll, save your votes ) However, to keep you amused until then will be Chapter 5 and a return to see how Trengin sorted out the pickpocket. That will be posted tomorrow. Thanks for voting everyone _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 11:18 am Post subject:

There's a storygame of the month vote already? Wow, I should go check it out. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 11:21 am Post subject:

No D - but when it does come out the 22nd will be a few days away from closing. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 11:33 am Post subject:

oh, ok. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Mon Nov 14, 2005 11:48 pm Post subject:

Excellent! Love it. Though I wish it wasn't with you in the SGotM! Bah! Tying in nicely with the 'other side' story as well. He obviously wouldn't know of the planned attack on the bridge, but a bit of deduction would probably lead him to believe that it would be a target quite soon. Hence I say he should take himself, and the others off there to help defend it, or just find out how the shield works. Two little points (returning the favour from past posts) Over the next two hours I learnt a fair amount just sat there I think I would have said 'sitting there'. Doesn't sound quite right the way you wrote it. Isn't gleaned 'ea'? Gleened gleaned. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 12:01 am Post subject:

Thanks Chinaren, Whilst you were spotting those I was spotting the ones in Narg. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 1:54 am Post subject:

Erm... right. I just read the post in chinaren's story that was... exactly the same. I think he should not join the Circle at all costs. Go for Captain Hunt, convince him that you would be of use, then question him about the book.

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Posted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 2:28 am Post subject: Re: Chapter 5: News and Options

*Blinks* Very clever story, Smee. I knew I'd underestimated your evil genius. I'll go away and ponder a while. But before I do... Smile

Smee wrote:

He looked at me shocked. He was a short man, a little of five feet but stocky and wearing quality clothing. I smile came to his face and he swayed slightly.

I smile? A smile?

Quote:

The store owner eyes me knowingly but makes no comment as he wraps the items I'd chosen, I paid him and briskly walked off.

I think the tense problems may be coming out again. You started the paragraph in past and moved it to present, then back to past again. Or is that just me? Confused

*beams innocently*
Happy correcting...

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Posted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 4:23 am Post subject:

He was a short man, a little of five feet but stocky and wearing quality clothing. I smile came to his face and he swayed slightly Whilst your at it, you might add another 'f' to the 'of'. I am assuming it was meant to be 'off' of course. Happy editing! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue Nov 15, 2005 4:34 am Post subject:

Thanks Stoat and Chinaren, all fixed.

Quote:

I think the tense problems may be coming out again. You started the paragraph in past and moved it to present, then back to past again. Or is that just me?

An on-going battle I'm seeking to win. Mad

Whenever I get into a flow of typing it happens. I have to keep breaking away and making sure I'm not doing it (which I forget to do). Eventually I'll get it right instinctively, but in the meantime thanks for spotting it. Very Happy

Happy Error spotting Smile

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Posted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 4:33 pm Post subject:

At this point the caravan sounds like the most important target. He has no idea that there are plans to attack the bridge, although he could logically surmise that they might. However, this caravan is definitely a tempting target and should be protected. Possibly he could find many of the answers he seeks there. I also doubt that he would leave his friends in the lurch, knowing the specifics of their intents. Before he was asked to join something, with little concept of what that meant. The consequences here are much clearer. He might not agree to join the Circle, but I think he will agree to help out for this one time. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 5:18 pm Post subject:

I think he should stick to his origanal decision and speak to Captain Hunt. If you have a plan it is best to stick to it for as long as possible. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 9:13 pm Post subject:

Go for the caravan. As a mage, I think Trengin is interested in those books that could amplify his power and help stop the Smepa. I think he's too curious to resist the offer. Plus, he can't let his friends go alone and get killed. He doesn't have to join the circle, just join this one expedition. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Wed Nov 16, 2005 9:26 pm Post subject:

Both guarding the caravan and talking to Captain Hunt (and possibly getting caught in an attack) sound like exactly what we were trying to avoid when we decided not to join the Circle. We'd be sticking our neck out and making ourselves known to the Sempa, an enemy that vastly outnumbers us, without striking against them in any meaningful way. On the other hand, if those magical scrolls and artifacts are as important as Srune says they are, this may be too big an opportunity to pass up. If we can get our hands on them, they may give us some real weapons to use against the Sempa; and if the Sempa get them instead, any weapons we have might be useless. So I think we should go to the caravan. But what I want to know is: what kind of a deal does Srune have with the soldiers who are guarding the things? Will they let us investigate the magic (and possibly use it), in exchange for escorting it safely? If he's got a deal like that with them then I think we should guard it. Otherwise, I think we should try to steal it ahead of the Sempa. If we don't, no amount of soldiers are going to keep it safe.

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Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 3:48 am Post subject:

Another thought would be trying to discourage his friends from doing something so foolish and refusing to help them, but deciding in the end to follow and of course becoming involved once the fighting starts if he needs to (which most likely he will). I could see him as the type that might refuse, set off for the bridge and then guilt forces him back to the side of his friends. Despite not wanting to get caught up in this mess, he ultimately wants to do the right thing. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 7:51 pm Post subject:

Lets stick strictly to the decision point. You can try to dissuade them and leave somewhere else, but its up to the author if he'll feel anyguilt. Don't assume. I know I do a lot of times...but i should stop. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2005 10:31 pm Post subject:

Quote:

what kind of a deal does Srune have with the soldiers who are guarding the things? Will they let us investigate the magic (and possibly use it), in exchange for escorting it safely?

There's no deal at the moment. Srune knows that if even a breath of hope that a mage might help them would get back to the Sempa somehow so it's strictly secret at the moment. However, the soldiers have to know that they really have no chance against the Sempa if they attack, so I'm sure a deal could be negotiated.

Quote:

Both guarding the caravan and talking to Captain Hunt (and possibly getting caught in an attack) sound like exactly what we were trying to avoid when we decided not to join the Circle.

The original decision for not joining was the risk for seemingly no gain. Talking with Hunt is something Trengin has been interested in since he heard of the bridge, and clearly he would hope to avoid a fight. He's unlikely to just stroll in if it's under attack.

Guarding the caravan holds the potential of whatever knowledge can be found. Trengin is just as professionally interested in this, and knows Srune wouldn't get excited about nothing.

A poll goes up later today. You've got a few hours for any other suggestions.
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Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 3:11 am Post subject:

D-Lotus wrote:

Lets stick strictly to the decision point. You can try to dissuade them and leave somewhere else, but its up to the author if he'll feel anyguilt. Don't assume. I know I do a lot of times...but i should stop. Wink

Wasn't an assumption, but rather speculation. Cool

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Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 3:29 am Post subject:

Okay Fauna, it's been bugging me for a while now. 2 months, 3 weeks 1 day to what???? _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 3:40 am Post subject:

Hmmmm, I'm not sure if I should tell. It's that long until February 9th... tries to avoid straying too far off topic for too long _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 3:43 am Post subject: Come on!

I will pay you 2 fables to spill the beans! Better still, start a competition in the marketplace! 10F to enter, winner takes all (minus a small cut for yourself!) _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 3:47 am Post subject:

Don't need a small cut...and if we persist then Smee will end up splitting this topic off and moving it into the Open Forum (or if you insist on a money-making venture, the Marketplace). Besides, I amended the statement above and said very specifically, February 9th. What more could you possibly want to know? _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 5:07 am Post subject:

OK the Poll is up and will last until about Sun 1pm GMT.

Choose wisely.

Quote:

Better still, start a competition in the marketplace!

The answer has been revealed in chat - it probably wouldn't work very well as a comp.

Quote:

and if we persist then Smee will end up splitting this topic off

I'll let you off this once. But no more chit chat Cool

Happy Voting. Smile

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Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 5:13 am Post subject: Keepin' it short

vtd. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 5:56 am Post subject:

Smee wrote:

I'll let you off this once. But no more chit chat Cool

You are so magnanimous Smee. *bows*

I say he tries to talk some sense into his friends, and attempt to convince them to come to the bridge with him. Seemed to fit his character best from the options presented.
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Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 10:58 am Post subject:

I went with defending the caravan. I think it's more important than the bridge.

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Posted: Fri Nov 18, 2005 12:02 pm Post subject:

I went for defending the caravan. I don't think Trengin would pass up the chance to get his hands on all that knowledge. That's something worth getting involved for

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Posted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 7:55 am Post subject:

Defend the caravan! If the Sempa get their hands on those books we're cooked!

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Posted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 11:30 am Post subject:

His friends are just stupid enough to go off and try to defend that caravan. He's still not joining their ridiculous Circle, but he can't let them walk into certain death without trying to help. _________________ Abduction! is in the Stasis Hall, but read it anyway! Got a problem? Write to Dear Dotty!

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Posted: Sat Nov 19, 2005 8:57 pm Post subject:

So sorry I haven't been commenting alot. I just read the chapters then go skateboard. I vote to defendeth the caravan. More action! _________________ I'm ripped across the ditch, and settled in the dirt and I'm Wiggled like a stitch, yet I'm the one who's hurt Pay attention to your twisted little indiscretions I've got no right to way, I'm just caught up all the battles

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Posted: Sun Nov 20, 2005 12:53 pm Post subject:

OK so the poll is over and Trengin is going to defend the caravan. Look out for that chapter on Tuesday 29th - although that is my graduation day so I may be late. Norral's fight to take over the Bridge is due out in two days. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sun Nov 20, 2005 5:15 pm Post subject:

Quote:

Look out for that chapter on Tuesday 29th - although that is my graduation day so I may be late.

I think we all know which one is more important here, so don't you be worrying about graduating. Wink

Anyway, I thought you were too old to learn new things?! What, if I may ask, are you graduating from?

Congrats anyway! Cool

Looking forward to the new chapter!
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Posted: Sun Nov 20, 2005 5:20 pm Post subject:

Damn, I missed the vote. but it doesn't matter, my option won anyway. Smee is in college, Chinaren. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Sun Nov 20, 2005 10:08 pm Post subject:

I graduated in BSc Computer Science in the summer, it just takes my University 6 months to arrange a time to hand us a certificate. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 5:07 am Post subject:

Great stuff! Keep fighting! There really isn't much choice! Your tense problem rose slightly in a couple of places, this one esp: He's my second in command. Good stuff, curse it! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 5:39 am Post subject:

Here's a few points of technicality while I'm trying to come up with something intelligent... Shocked

Quote:

"Once inside maintain your personal shield... (etc.) We'll, until the final few anyway."

We'll=well?

Quote:

"Moving forward," I commanded and we ran across the final hundred yards as more arrows fly from the storm in every direction. Only two make it near us, one disintegrating on the shield.

tense=past then present

Quote:

Shannon was fast and cast the wall as the first arrow sailed through. Mulim was a second behind and the glowing shield caught the rest of the arrows. With horror I stare at the black-feathered arrow as it plunged through the back of Karak's head

past-present again

Happy Reader-Tormenting! Very Happy

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Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 6:36 am Post subject:

Okay, we’re inside, we’re wreaking havoc, and some mage has started a counter attack. New priority- eliminate that mage. Focus on the Keep, and then worry about stragglers later. Maintain the shield as best you can, instructing some to focus on defense against anything that might get through should the shield fail again. Then you and Teron, and perhaps one other, focus your efforts on ridding your team of the problems in the Keep. I'll consult the the resident warmonger here and if he sheds any new light on the situation I'll be sure to post it. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 7:12 am Post subject:

Is there any kind of location magic, to identify where the enemy mage is casting from? If not, can we use some sort of modification of the bridge-shield magic, so that magic bounces back visibly when cast against it, using that to point out his direction? I'd agree with Fauna that you have to get rid of the other side's magic-user, but unless we can find him/her, we're firing just as blind as the soldiers in the sandstorm were.

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Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 7:34 am Post subject:

Quote:

From the distant keep it stormed towards our shield, quickly overtaking the approaching arrows.

Unless I mis-read, this seems to indicate that the magic originated from the direction of the Keep.
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Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 8:41 am Post subject:

ethereal_fauna wrote:

Unless I mis-read, this seems to indicate that the magic originated from the direction of the Keep.

I was assuming the fort was still relatively big, even when we got there. If necessary, we can get in and then start searching... but it would be nice if there was something more direct in terms of getting our bearings Smile

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Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 1:22 pm Post subject:

Some of the technicalities that weren't mentioned yet:

Quote:

The all ended up with upturned palms nested together in the centre of them.

Quote:

The ice ran red.

I know what you're trying to say with this one, but it just seems inherently wrong to me to have ice, a solid, running.

Quote:

With horror I stare at the black-feathered arrow as it plunged through the back of Karak's head,

This is probably a typo not a tense problem.

Quote:

As a whole we moved forward, my squad extinguishing any life that appeared, the stench of burning flesh everywhere.

Just wanted to let you know that I appreciate this pun of extinguishing with fire.

I agree with ethereal and shady. The mage is definitely the new priority. Now that a mage has been killed, retreating is not an option, and the mage is their greatest threat. They must kill the mage.

~sunny

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Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2005 9:02 pm Post subject:

Well, if they have a mage...we must have some plan against mages, right? right? I guess not. Well, we can try to fling him out of the magic dome, and then have one person concentrate on blocking him out so he can't come in or use his magic. The rest of the team (remaining 8 people apart from shield people) can concentrate on soldiers. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Sat Nov 26, 2005 9:32 am Post subject:

New poll is up, apologies for it being a little late. It will run for 3 days. I didn't get many ideas for this one so I've added in my ideas as well. The next chapter is due out on Tuesday, where we will find out what happens to Trengin when he follows Roah and Srune to defend the caravan if it gets attacked. Due to my graduation ceremony I won't be able to keep to that deadline. Maybe Wednesday but we'll see. It'll be as soon as I can. Happy Voting. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Nov 26, 2005 12:37 pm Post subject:

i thought just destroy the keep shows inititive and btwm 'the time before' what? _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Sat Nov 26, 2005 1:12 pm Post subject:

I vote to destroy the keep. I seem to have missed the chapter coming out and you did a nice job writing it .

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Posted: Sat Nov 26, 2005 5:05 pm Post subject:

Vted! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sun Dec 04, 2005 2:18 am Post subject:

Love the new place, just need an image and you're good to go. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Sun Dec 04, 2005 3:01 am Post subject:

snuffles around Nice place, Smee. Now that you've got your own pad, just remember one thing: Firebolts are for use outside the premises!

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Posted: Sun Dec 04, 2005 4:55 am Post subject:

Looking good Smee wanders off to throw a firebolt at last month's SGotM poll now that this forum is created

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Posted: Sun Dec 04, 2005 5:18 am Post subject:

looks around through slitted eyes Yes. Very nice. :mrgreen: Surreptitiously sticks a flyer for his new storygame on the wall and stalks out in a huff _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sun Dec 04, 2005 4:56 pm Post subject:

AAaaaaaww, don't be mad chinaren. Just because Smee's story was better doesn't mean you have to get all angered. drinks vanilla coke looks at poll drinks more vanilla coke leaves

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Posted: Sun Dec 04, 2005 5:42 pm Post subject:

Hum diddly dum. This is my idere to tie in the two stories. Have the caraven not leave just yet due to the attacking mages or fear thereof. And of course, somehow get rid of the mage. Not by directly assulting him, he'll have defended against that. No, just cause the earth to swallow him whole or the air to throw him away. Preferably the second one. More screaming that way. _________________ ...So I've been summoned back from beyond the veil. ...No plans yet.

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Posted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 2:21 am Post subject:

Mhm, good place, needs a homing pigeon. It is the Time Before The Battle To The End(TBTBTTE).

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Posted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 5:39 am Post subject:

Darn I missed the vote. Smee, great story, you have, I read all the chapters all in one go. I like how you have parallel stories going on, makes for an interesting read from two different perspectives. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 10:16 pm Post subject:

Hey all, As you have probably noticed, my victory appears at the same time my ambition to produce a story to featured storygame rules has died. Life has got in the way, and I fear christmas will too. So my plan is to produce the next two chapters that you guys have already voted and decided on, and then set a decision point to last over christmas which will be taken up in the new year. Happy Reading. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 2:10 am Post subject:

Quote:

As you have probably noticed, my victory appears at the same time my ambition to produce a story to featured storygame rules has died.

Bloody part timer! Steals my victory Wink

then boggers off to eat turkey...

I will have my revenge*!!! <waves fist in the air dramatically> Hahahahahhaaa! <Diabolical laughter>

*Although I am not sure how.
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Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 2:35 am Post subject:

mmmmmm turkey. Smile

Quote:

Hahahahahhaaa! <Diabolical laughter>

Far easier to just go "Mwahahahaha" for diabolical laughter. Wink

Quote:

Bloody part timer

Pay my rent (RL rent not IF rent Wink

) for me and I'll gladly become full-time. I will also require spending money, and badger handling fees Smile

Happy Revenge plotting. Smile

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Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 2:41 am Post subject:

Quote:

and badger handling fees

I am not going to ask! Shocked

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Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 2:43 am Post subject:

Anonymous wrote:

Quote:

and badger handling fees

I am not going to ask! Shocked

Me, un-logged in due to browser restart.

We should have some big flashing sign pop up when we aren't logged in!
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Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 6:12 am Post subject:

Hmm maybe we should all plot to keep Chinaren from wining so the same thing doesn't happen again Glad to hear that your going to start back up full time after Christmas Smee

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Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 6:21 am Post subject:

Never fear! I am going nowhere, unless they drag me off* kicking and screaming! The Xmas season is a pretty much non-event here, so except for a few outings out to bars, I doubt you will see any major drop in the frequency of my posts. Mind you, perhaps people may want to see less of my ugly mug around here! *You never can tell. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 7:04 am Post subject:

Hey everyone,

Guilt*, and inspiration** have hit, and I started chapter 7. If you are all good then I should have it done in a day or two.

I also have an idea for a quick catch up with the Captain from the Introduction (without a decision point) to tied you over during Christmas.

Between Christmas and New Years I'll have little to do and you are likely to get another chapter then as well, but I'll probably do a Battle to the End Gorin chapter instead.

Quote:

perhaps people may want to see less of my ugly mug around here!

Actually I'm quite intrigued what the ugly mug of a crazy person like you actaully looks like. Now where is that pic's thread?

Happy Writing. Smile

* Not all that much, Mwahahaha Wink

** Bored at lunch
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Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 6:02 am Post subject:

Chapter 7 now up here Happy Reading. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd! Last edited by Smee on Tue Dec 27, 2005 4:06 am; edited 2 times in total

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Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 6:19 am Post subject:

Excellent (the small fire worked ) Shame to lose the advantage of surprise by countering the fireball in a noticable way, but you're not quite so valuable if you can't save lives AND prevent capture/destruction of the caravan. Allow the fireball to run its course, and scatter the soldiers. As mentioned, not a gentle approach but the soldiers will live. A good tactic if possible- make it appear as if there are more than three of you present. Quickly assign tasks and split up- one to prevent destruction of the caravan, one to locate the source of the attack, and one to communicate with the captain. Then regroup and concentrate on eliminating the Sempa one at a time. Two of you should work offence and one defense, as it is doubtful that you could simply hide your location once you begin your counterattack. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 6:45 am Post subject:

narrows eyes suspiciously at Smee I'm not entirely convinced we have the advantage of surprise. Something was stopping Trengin from looking too far afield on their journey here. The last time his magic was blocked, it was by other Mages. IF that's the case this time (and presuming they aren't other good souls with the same idea as Roah and Srune), then they already know Trengin and co. are here, and how many of them there are. In any case, whether it is or not... then I think we shouldn't lose sight of the real goal. Nobody is going to congratulate us at the end of the battle if we've saved the soldiers but lost the caravan of books. Hard-hearted it may be, but those soldiers were dead men before we arrived, and they may well be dead men after we've finished. Books first, people later. Excellent chapter, mate!

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Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 6:59 am Post subject:

If there really are soldiers standing by the wagons then not dispelling the fireball could be dangerous as they think were infiltrators and burn the wagon before we can get to it.

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Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 7:12 am Post subject:

That is one thing to consider - the vast majority have no idea there are suddenly mages working on their side. Arrows could appear from scared guards, wild sword swings etc. I think once you are sure the Sempa are aware of you, then some sort of impressively visual defence is needed to announce your side to the troops. However, it's up to you. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 9:41 am Post subject:

Okay. Chapter 7 looks a bit on the long side. Just skimming through it looks great, I will post again to give you a more detailed opinion. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 9:47 am Post subject:

That's great Raven. It's good to have you caught up and joining in. Happy Reading. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 12:35 pm Post subject:

Nice chapter. And nice decision point. It's a hard one. I say dispel the fireball. I think the mages already know we're here, and most of the soldiers don't. Dispelling the fireball may clue in the rest of the soldiers that they've got mage help, and may get them to delay in burning the caravan. Besides, remember that we've still got to prove our trustworthiness to the captain and the rest of the soldiers. If we start this battle by letting the Sempa fry a bunch of soldiers, they're not going to be inclined to ally with us or give us a peek at the caravan later. Meanwhile, though, we've got to get the captain to countermand his orders about the caravan, because that's the only thing that's really going to convince them to stop. Going over there ourselves or casting spells on them is just going to get us into a fight with the soldiers, which we really don't need. Instead we should transport the captain over, or raise his voice so that he can communicate more quickly with the soldiers at the caravan. Lastly, we've got to figure out where the Sempa are attacking from, and get them. It's true that it's three against six, but at least we've got the soldiers on our side - it's going to take at least two mages to keep themselves shielded from the soldiers. So, I say, split up our duties - one to get the captain over the to caravan, one to block the fireball and defend the soldiers, and one to find and attack the mages. Physically, we should probably stay in the same place, so that we can all be defended together.

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Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 4:07 pm Post subject:

I've consulted the war room, and here's what we have to add: First off, if the captain survives this, point out how silly (read:non-strategic) it was to stop the caravan in the middle of a mile wide clearing which isn't exactly defensible and provides no cover and concealment. Regarding the fireball and the impending deaths of the soldiers, sadly those men should be left to fend for themselves. If they are scrambling to reach their positions, there is a chance that some will survive anyway. This has advantages: if the Sempa are not aware of your presence then you maintain that element of surprise. If they already know you are there, then they are left with the impression that you are unable/unwilling to help, and will not be a hindrance to them. One of you should extinguish any torches that the soldiers might ready to set the wagons afire, and another should get with the captain. Key's suggestion of amplifying the captain's voice is a great one. Convince the captain to call for the soldiers to scatter into the woodlines, with any archers providing cover. The captain and the LT should stay with you, and you should all remain with the caravan. If the soldiers scatter into the woodlines, then the Sempa will be forced to split up and pursue them or otherwise allow survivors. Some will die, but many more will live if this plan works. Take up positions within or around the wagons, and focus on eliminating the attacking mages one by one. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 5:03 pm Post subject:

All good ideas. Lets not forget the soldiers here. Provide the soldiers with shielding and they can aid in fight the against the Sempa themselves, adding to anything you do. In a previous chapter one of them was nearly skewered by an arrow, so they are vunerable to attack. Extinguish the torches or hide/do something with the wagon so they can't destroy it. Otherwise, what they said. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 5:53 am Post subject:

How much shielding can you provide for the soldiers? Don't want to spread your talents too thinly. There are presumably six of them, and three of you. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 5:58 am Post subject:

Same rules as applied to Norral. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 2:59 pm Post subject:

A difficult situation we have here. All of them having a moral consequence. But I agree with Fauna on the point that the soldiers will have to fend for themselves with the fireball. The threesome's main priority is the caravan and getting the captain to countermand his earlier order of burning the caravan. The sudden burning of the carvan as soon as an attack hits is a ras movement on the soldiers' parts in my opinion. What if they won? So I suggest we guard the caravan as much as possible. Putting out the torches, knocking out a few men, whatever to keep the caravan from burning. Maybe one of the group should get the captain to order his men from burning the caravan. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 3:45 pm Post subject:

Quote:

The sudden burning of the carvan as soon as an attack hits is a ras movement on the soldiers' parts in my opinion. What if they won?

The soldiers have never experienced anything but total defeat. They know they have no chance against a group of Sempa, and have numbers merely to delay them whilst the cargo is destroyed.

However, the Captain's statement about burning the caravan if Trengin or Co go near isn't in effect yet. They are currently following original orders. Therefore if an attack from Sempa is confirmed, only then will soldiers run to burn the caravan. At the moment chaos ensues, so there is some time.

Amplifying the voice of the Captain is a nice idea; any ideas for the attack back?
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Posted: Fri Dec 09, 2005 4:46 pm Post subject:

A possibility could be to have one of the mages or a scout behind the enemy to confirm the presence of Sempa. While at the same there could be a deflection of the fireball heading for the group of soldiers by the other two mages. Maybe that would work. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sat Dec 10, 2005 11:20 am Post subject:

I was immediately struck by the fabulous writing, yet HORRENDOUS grammar on your part, Smee. I mean, mouthing off like this is going to get me in trouble, but Good Lord. . . alright, it's certainly better than about 95% of all the writing in this website, and you Britons have a different English style than Americans, but my blood is running cold after reading all of that. Dispelling a fireball won't get you anywhere. You would have to know where it is, its trajectory, and its target. Seeing as he has only moments before the fireball lands, he doesn't have that option. I suggest initiating a teleport field in the area that the fireball is going to land that would move everyone out of the way. Either that, or you could try all on your lonesome to protect the entire group of soldiers from fire, which would work, but not very effectively.

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Posted: Sat Dec 10, 2005 11:24 am Post subject:

Note that the Sempa (if there are Sempa, which is more than likely. It could just be an Emflikar, though) don't know that there are magi present in the defense. A sudden surprise attack by shielded and invisible archers from behind would seal victory. It would have to be archers, because warriors generally don't recognize the whole idea of "STEALTH".

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Posted: Sat Dec 10, 2005 11:32 am Post subject:

Quote:

yet HORRENDOUS grammar on your part

Please enlighten me - I don't claim I'm a professional here, and I'm quite open to learning. The last English formal training I had was G.C.S.E's at 16 years old.
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Posted: Sat Dec 10, 2005 5:57 pm Post subject:

I'm not sure if I detected sarcasm or anger there. I was quoting your article on most of your grammar spots, and when I was about to click on the "Submit" button, my computer lagged, and for some reason, my cursor hit "Back". All that valuable work . . . wasted.

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Posted: Sun Dec 11, 2005 2:32 am Post subject:

Oooh oooh oooh!!

*jumps up and down, waving paws in the air*

I found one!

Quote:

Srune was immediately at my side, a hand on my shoulder. "Calm down, we understand." Roah nodded his agreement. Srune continued, "More importantly we are glad of your help. Lets get to planning."

You need to put an apostrophe in your "Let's get to planning."

*beams like the brightest student in the class*

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Posted: Sun Dec 11, 2005 5:28 am Post subject:

Quote:

You need to put an apostrophe in your "Let's get to planning."

Yeah, Yeah! I was going to comment on that too, but I was so disgusted at it I didn't bother. Shocked

Ahem. Yeah...<trails off, looks around and bolts out of the door.>

Wink

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Posted: Sun Dec 11, 2005 1:12 pm Post subject:

Well, it was mostly the same mistakes over and over, so I figured that it had to do with British people talking and writing differently than Americans, although anyone could put it on the low grammar standards this site has.

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Posted: Sun Dec 11, 2005 1:26 pm Post subject:

Why we gotta be so nasty to each other? I've read some bad stuff, and it isn't written by Smee. Sheesh. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Sun Dec 11, 2005 3:44 pm Post subject:

Sorrow, if you want to correct Smee's grammar, start a thread in the IF Technical Institute, and give specific examples of what you think is wrong and what would be the correct form. Please use this thread just for playing the game.

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Posted: Sun Dec 11, 2005 6:58 pm Post subject:

Now I feel so guilty. Still, the Sempa are focused completely on the attack, not the defense. Get six archers, cast some sort of invisibility spells and get them behind the Sempa. The magi will suffer the most horrific defeat in the history of the . . . war? Battle? Revolution? Maybe I didn't catch on to that, but it will demoralize the magi a lot.

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Posted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 12:27 am Post subject:

Hey Sorrow, I lost computer access over the weekend so I couldn't step in earlier. I realise my use of the word 'Enlighten' probably makes it seem sarcastic (my poetic side coming out ), but if you find the time to make a rewrite a post for the technical institute then I'll be more than happy to read through and discover where you think I'm going wrong. All that aside though, you've come up with some good ideas, so don't feel bad. I'm glad that you are taking an interest. A poll will be going up soon guys. Happy Writing. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 4:54 am Post subject:

Hey Everybody, This was a pretty tricky poll to make. In the end I decided to go with just the response to the fireball. After whatever you do with the fireball I will proceed with splitting the tasks amongst Roah, Trengin and Srune, and using the idea about amplifying the Captain's voice as this seems to be the common consensus. However, if anyone thinks there is scope for another poll after we decide what to do about the fireball then I'm quite willing. Another chapter won't be here for a little while yet so we have time, plus there are a lot of ideas. A few little points: The fireball originated at the forest edge, giving you some idea where at least one of the Sempa is. Invisibility, and teleportation spells aren't available at this time. Invisibility is complicated magic that comes in a variety of forms. Gorin bends light around the item, whilst Jakeen using the music to fade the image of the person from the victim's mind. Such things are all in the future and current day mages are still experimenting with such ideas. None of our mages currently have any form of invisibility spell. There are rumours that the Sempa have discovered a kind of invisibility, but if you listen to rumours then the Sempa can do anything. Happy Voting _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 5:27 am Post subject:

I voted for the high drama fireball approach, 'cos that's the type of guy I am. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 5:50 am Post subject:

Not only do you not have the time to spare, to dispel the fireball, but there are advantages to leaving it be. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 7:26 am Post subject:

voted _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 10:19 am Post subject:

I voted to move the soldiers out of the path of the fireball. It might not be the most strategic, or best move, but we have to save the soldiers. We told the Captain that we would also try to protect the men, not just the caravan. It's also possible that Roah or Srune can get the Captain to call off the torching while Trengin saves the soldiers. ~sunny

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Posted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 12:27 pm Post subject:

YAY a poll!! And just when I finished my last midterm for this semester! Voted. We really need to move those soldiers. The people are just as important as the valuables in the caravan. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 9:00 am Post subject:

It's only a 3 day poll so get your votes in quick before it dies. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2005 3:39 pm Post subject:

Ok Poll is closed and Trengin is going to move the men out the path of the fireball. Thanks everyone for your votes, expect the result to be out early in the new year. In the meantime Norral is in the middle of his bridge assault and your decision to destroy the keep to eliminate the mage threat will be out before Christmas. Happy Reading _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Dec 17, 2005 4:00 pm Post subject:

darn dident make the poll. but oh well, I get to have my way anyway. tis a great story so far good luck! _________________ Ish yara al-ahdab hadbat-u (a hunchback does not see his own hunch. -folk saying)

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Posted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 11:07 am Post subject:

Hey Everybody Chapter 8 has just been posted here. This one will go on over the Christmas period, so plenty of chance for discussion and plans. A poll will go up once the discussion seems to have dried up. Happy discussion, and holidays. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd! Last edited by Smee on Tue Dec 27, 2005 3:59 am; edited 4 times in total

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Posted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 11:20 am Post subject:

Hmm... It seems to me that we've already underestimated the Fort's Mage more than once. We can't automatically assume that he was unshielded, or that he didn't shield others. Looking at the devastation, it seems unlikely that anyone survived, but I can't see the elders looking too favourably on another slip-up from Norral. I say take the time to mop up first, before going back to explain your actions. The first time we met Norral, he was forced to explain himself to his superiors, and they already had the account from someone else - yet they still listened to what he had to say. They are unlikely to issue judgement without at least hearing him. Excellent chapter Smee

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Posted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 11:23 am Post subject:

First post dance Good chapter, Smee, although a bit short from what you usually write. Not that I am complaining. Instinctively, I would say go and tell lthe elders your success so far, but that sounds too naive. Norral is a new squad leader, so needs to prove to the elders that he is trustworthy to finish the task. Although his team may be tired, I think he should take the precaution to check for survivors and probably look for that mage. It is likely he could find useful information from the rubbish he just created by destroying the bridge. The elders, who assigned him the mission, probably didn't know about there being a mage on the opposing side, so Norral could look into finding some kind of evidence. Maybe it will help bring him up in the elders' esteem. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 11:35 am Post subject:

Just to clarify - the bridge is fine - a few rocks littering the place. Only the keep at the end of the north side is destroyed. Thanks for the comments so far ~ and so quick. Happy Reading _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 11:43 am Post subject:

I think I am confusing the two different story lines here, but is it Norral's or Trengin's that we find out about there being a magical barrier around the bridge? I have a feeling the information is given in Norral's. If the bridge is fine, are we to assume that the barrier is still up? _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 11:46 am Post subject:

Norral was told about it by the Elders, but Trengin also found out via the tavern gossip, and from Roah. So your confusion was justified - it was both. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 12:26 pm Post subject:

We need to find that mage. We should proced on the asumtion that he shielded himself in time because he has proved to be smart.

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Posted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 1:41 pm Post subject:

find the mage's body and make sure there are no surviors _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Thu Dec 22, 2005 1:47 pm Post subject:

We definitely need to confirm the mage's death. If the Elders ask us why we didn't and we say, "We were too tired," they're not going to take too kindly to that answer. We also need to make sure that no soldiers survived; the blast should have killed everyone, but it's always possible that there were some further away or who dove under the river. It's bad enough that we lost our war's first casualty; if we also leave someone alive we're in very deep trouble. As long as we don't leave anyone alive, there's no way the Elders will get word of Karak's death before we go back, anyway. So we'll at least have a chance to break the news, uh....gently? Hmm...now that I think about it, maybe we should think about an escape plan. Here's something to consider: suppose we don't find the mage's body. Presumably he's now escaped, and we've therefore not only lost our first casualty, but the mage lived to tell the tale, and will be celebrated by our enemies and serve as a model for other mages to rise against us. It's the worst possible outcome for the Sempa. If we allowed this to happen, is the leader going to let us live?

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Posted: Fri Dec 23, 2005 1:30 pm Post subject:

Smee wrote:

Norral was told about it by the Elders, but Trengin also found out via the tavern gossip, and from Roah.

So your confusion was justified - it was both. Smile

Okay, was just making sure I wasn't mentioning stuff that shouldn't be known yet to either party.

Key's reasoning at the end of his post makes sense despite the pessimism in it. But for a soldier, I guess it is best to think of all the worse possibilities. Finding the mage's body seems the most important step since the Sempa had no idea of his presence among the enemy.
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Posted: Sat Dec 24, 2005 6:50 am Post subject:

Now that this battle is over and the dust is settling, it's time to effect some damage control on our reputation. It's highly important that no one escapes to spread the truth. We want to make certain that the version of what's told is what we want others to hear. Although doubtful that any lowly pike soldier would know anything important, capturing the remaining personnel alive might be prudent. We have many questions that need answers, and somebody is bound to know something. Recovery of the mage or his body, along with anyone else from the keep that might have sensitive information, could help us turn a grim situation into something vaguely salvageable. Find the mage-or his remains, and learn how he came to the side of your enemy. That's important information that the Sempa needs to know. If the mage is indeed dead, or reluctant to talk, there is bound to be someone that knows something. Find out if the shield is still operational. Find the source of the shield. You might be tired and running low on energy, but you could easily end up dead if the elders aren't pleased with what you managed to accomplish in this aftermath. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Sat Dec 24, 2005 4:09 pm Post subject:

Arg! I don't mind there being one thread to discuss things, but could you put a warning in it, in big red letters that the next chapter has been posted so I don't accidentally read comments about one I haven't read yet! I knew you killed the mage before I realised there was a new chapter. Right then the story. The explosion was so large I am not sure there would be any remains to find! However, a check of the rubble would certainly seem in order, though one has to remember that the explosion may have been seen and re-enforcements could be sent out to investigate. It may also be worth getting a story together to say the enemy mage self-destructed the bridge, and tell that to your superiors. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sat Dec 24, 2005 4:26 pm Post subject:

yes, i fell under the same trap _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Sun Dec 25, 2005 8:09 am Post subject:

Quote:

I don't mind there being one thread to discuss things, but could you put a warning in it, in big red letters that the next chapter has been posted so I don't accidentally read comments about one I haven't read yet! I knew you killed the mage before I realised there was a new chapter.

I did as many things as I could think of Shocked

I posted in here with a link - if you read the first new post in here it would have been me saying that chapter 8 has been released.

I linked from the end of chapter 7, I altered my sig, and altered the title of the threads.

You must have started reading from the bottom of here or something. Confused

To reiterate - the bridge is fine, just the Keep (fort, castle) was destroyed.
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Posted: Sun Dec 25, 2005 4:07 pm Post subject:

Quote:

I posted in here with a link - if you read the first new post in here it would have been me saying that chapter 8 has been released.

My apologies Smee, I saw that the second time around! Maybe you could do it in big red letters or something?! Smile

I tend to scroll down until I find a post I haven't read, then scroll back up until I find one that I have seen before. I obviously missed your notice!

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Posted: Tue Dec 27, 2005 3:58 am Post subject:

big red writing added _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Jan 07, 2006 5:18 am Post subject:

NEW POLL OK a big poll up people, with a lot of options. Do you...? Leave immediately to report to the Elders. Quick search of the ruins for anyone left alive before returning to the Elders. A thorough search of the ruins for any alive and evidence of the Mage. Split the group in half - one to stay behind to mop up, and another to go back and report. (This will lead to a second poll of which group will Norral be in) Abandon the mission and don't return to the Elders for fear of your life. Abandon the mission but stay with the bridge - make it your base. Choose wisely and carefully - and if possible provide in-character reasons for your vote. All are viable, some unexpected Happy Voting Split the group provided by my mum _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Jan 07, 2006 6:13 am Post subject:

One of my squad members has been killed and the elders will kill me if anyone hears about it. I must make certian that there is no-one left alive to tell that we are not immortal.

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Posted: Sat Jan 07, 2006 7:11 am Post subject:

Our group is tired, and less one. If I'm going to salvage what's left of this, though, I need to find that mage (or what's left of him) and make certain that none other than Sempa leave this place alive. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Sat Jan 07, 2006 11:17 am Post subject:

voted _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Sat Jan 07, 2006 5:35 pm Post subject:

I voted for a good search, but remembering to keep a watch out for approaching enemy forces. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2006 6:39 pm Post subject:

Although, I am a new squadleader, every good leaders knows to examine throughly the scene before returning. I want this mission to reflect well on me. I don't think the Elders expect me to return soon either since this was one of the more difficult missions. Also since this mission may concern there being a Mage, I know that the Elders would want to hear more about it. Best let the men rest a bit before we take a look around the area. I don't want to be killed when I am leaving by a survivor because that would be a show of incompetence, and that would only add to the number dead and wounded. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 12:31 am Post subject:

Ravenwing wrote:

I don't want to be killed when I am leaving by a survivor because that would be a show of incompetence, and that would only add to the number dead and wounded.

and you probably dont want to be killed as you'd rather not be dead either
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Posted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 1:37 am Post subject:

lordofthenight wrote:

Ravenwing wrote:

I don't want to be killed when I am leaving by a survivor because that would be a show of incompetence, and that would only add to the number dead and wounded.

and you probably dont want to be killed as you'd rather not be dead either

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Posted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 6:23 pm Post subject:

lordofthenight wrote:

Ravenwing wrote:

I don't want to be killed when I am leaving by a survivor because that would be a show of incompetence, and that would only add to the number dead and wounded.

and you probably dont want to be killed as you'd rather not be dead either

LOL. Either would be a bad and unfortunate, and make for a nice ending, which won't happen anytime soon since it would end Norral's story pretty fast. Cool

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Posted: Mon Jan 09, 2006 11:04 pm Post subject:

Quote:

LOL. Either would be a bad and unfortunate, and make for a nice ending, which won't happen anytime soon since it would end Norral's story pretty fast.

If you guys get him into a situation he can't handle then it is entirely possible for him to die. You'll be stuck with Trengin. The same works if you manage to get Trengin killed.

These guys don't have heromatic immunity Smile

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Posted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 2:16 pm Post subject:

Smee wrote:

Quote:

LOL. Either would be a bad and unfortunate, and make for a nice ending, which won't happen anytime soon since it would end Norral's story pretty fast.

We would lose one perspective of the plot. I am assuming these two different perspectives will connect at some point. Despite the confusion, I still like reading the different perspectives.
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Posted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 2:19 pm Post subject:

Quote:

We would lose one perspective of the plot.

I still like reading the different perspectives.

Better be careful then Wink

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Posted: Wed Jan 11, 2006 2:31 pm Post subject:

Smee wrote:

Quote:

We would lose one perspective of the plot.

I still like reading the different perspectives.

Better be careful then Wink

I don't if it should I that the characters should worry about. Other members of this forum, I think, are more likely to lead to their demise with their ideas.
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Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 2:19 am Post subject:

Last day or so for voting. Get them in quick. NB: The vote from me isn't my vote - but the vote of a busy friend who won't join the site. It allows me to see the result easier as well. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 9:47 am Post subject:

Hey Everybody Chapter 9 has just been posted here. A poll will go up once the discussion seems to have dried up. Happy discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 10:04 am Post subject:

I took a quick glance at the new chapter, and it looks like a good read. I just need find time to read it more throughly, so I guess look for a more detailed opinion later today. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 1:00 pm Post subject:

Go the Good Guys! Woooo! I have a feeling we shouldn't be letting the two survivors escape. Trengin is a worry, certainly, but he blacked out before, when doing a similar scouting-spell. He came around then, we've got to guess he'll come around now. I don't like the idea of leaving the soldiers alone with the caravan, but I even less like the idea of leaving 2 of the Sempa to go back and report on exactly what happened. They outnumber us mightily, and the best defence we've got is their continued ignorance of our presence. Of course they'll know we were there - but if we take out the rest of the squad, they won't know how many (or few, to be more accurate), or what strategies we used, or even where exactly we are. It'll buy us time, perhaps to study the books in more detail and to come up with something that might help in future fights. We may not be able to catch up with them now - and we'd have to take soldiers with us, just to keep the odds from being 50-50 - but I think it's worth a try. Leave Trengin with the Captain. Hopefully, if he comes around in time, he may be able to study or at least strengthen the bonds between himself and the soldiers

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Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 5:19 pm Post subject:

They worked hard to gain trust, and protect the caravan. They should stay with it now. Make sure the caravan reaches its destination. Without Trengin to seek, they might not even be able to follow the two Sempa. Sooner or later the Sempa will know what transpired here, whether those two mages make it back or not. See what the company medic can do for Trengin. Although he doesn't have a battle wound, the medic should be able to treat for shock or any other condition such as that. Buy time until you reach a proper healer, or Trengin recovers. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 8:26 pm Post subject:

Great chapter! I'm with Stoat: getting those mages is the most important thing. They're bound to be drained from all the shielding and fireballing. Ride after them and hunt them down. It might save you precious days and throw your enemies into doubt.

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Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2006 9:23 pm Post subject:

I am also f5ing Stoat and Key. Gotta get those mages and stop them reporting what happened. It would give you more time and all that has been said by the Stoaty one. Excellent chapter! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 2:39 am Post subject:

F5 once more _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 3:40 am Post subject:

Now don't I feel like the lonesome stranger with my wanton ideas. We need to chase down the mages because? It's a great idea to leave the caravan unguarded now...there's no way they could have contacted anyone yet (or is there?) We know we can best them (uh-huh) We fully understand what happened to Trengin, just like before when this happened, so we know there's no danger there (did I miss something?) It'll buy us time, because the Sempa are so stupid they won't notice when a squad of six on a mission to capture a caravan, fail to report back Our time will be about the same, regardless. We need to protect that caravan and get it moving. And unlike the Sempa, who can afford to leave no survivors, we're going to have a whole company of elated soldiers bragging about their first success. The Sempa are going to find out our numbers, our tactics...chasing after those two fleeing mages might get us injured or killed (along with anyone who goes after them with us) and meanwhile whatever or whoever keeps affecting Trengin and causing him to black out has free access to the caravan. Just my _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 7:04 am Post subject:

yes, you do make good points there but if they do manage to catch them sempa, then there is less chance of them informing people of the actual numbers of the wizards. currently - assuming they can talk telepathically - no one else knows just how powerful the three are - the normal soldiers wont know what Trengin has done with the plants - or if its unusual _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Sat Jan 14, 2006 4:21 pm Post subject:

lordofthenight wrote:

yes, you do make good points there

but if they do manage to catch them sempa, then there is less chance of them informing people of the actual numbers of the wizards. currently - assuming they can talk telepathically - no one else knows just how powerful the three are - the normal soldiers wont know what Trengin has done with the plants - or if its unusual

But Trengin and Co, don't know about the Sempa plan to find out the number of wizards...yet. But I am with Fauna on this.

The good has dealt a decent blow on their enemy. If they go after the Sempa, I don't think they will get much out of it. The threesome is already tired bringing down three enemy units, besides I think they better wait for what the Sempa are going to do now.

Smee, noticed two spelling errors. I just have to mention them due to the fact that I have the Oxford English Dictionary on hand. Cool

Simplier=simpler AND soliders=soldiers.

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Posted: Sat Jan 14, 2006 5:45 pm Post subject:

Hmm...you make a good case, Fauna. Now that I think about it, it does seem like securing the caravan is more important than chasing down the Sempa. It could be the key to turning the tide of this war, so we need to get it safe and hidden right away.

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Posted: Sat Jan 14, 2006 6:53 pm Post subject:

Quote:

A thorough search of the ruins for any alive and evidence of the Mage.

OK the poll is over and you have decided to stay longer to finish the job.

Given the losses of the caravan squad in Trengin's chapter, finding evidence of the dead mage could stand you in very good stead of appeasing the Elders compared to the other Squadleader.

Of course Norral doesn't know that so he's likely to be a little tense, but it seems you've made a good decision.

I'd like to give you a date for this chapter, but I haven't settled back into a writing routine yet, so I'll get it to you as soon as I can.

Happy Writing. Smile

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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2006 8:30 am Post subject:

I'm not entirely convinced yet, although open to being persuaded Smile

Okay, point by point:

Quote:

It's a great idea to leave the caravan unguarded now...there's no way they could have contacted anyone yet (or is there?)

As far as I can see, the magic simply doesn't exist in this world to communicate telepathically. I could be wrong, but everything I've seen so far is a modification of elemental or force magic. Ways to manipulate energy and so forth. Mental attacks, invisibility, mind-control etc. seem to be beyond Mages at this point. I'll happily be proved wrong, but I think it would have been used by now if it could have been.

Other than that, I don't think there's any way they could have got word back. Again, am I missing something?

Quote:

We know we can best them (uh-huh)

Nothing is certain, but if we have soldiers on our side as well as equal numbers and abilities, then the odds are in our favour. It's called a calculated risk.

Quote:

We fully understand what happened to Trengin, just like before when this happened, so we know there's no danger there (did I miss something?)

We have no idea what happened to Trengin, but we know that it most likely isn't connected to the Sempa attack. When he tried his scouting magic around them, there were no ill-effects. It was only when they had already turned tail and fled that he suffered from some sort of attack.

There could be two forces of evil magic around, independent of each other, but that seems to be heading into the realms of the unrealistic to me. Whatever it is, I get the feeling that it's on the defensive. Like a reflex repulsion when Trengin gets too close.

Speculation, I know. What else can we do though? Only the author knows what's going on (we hope!) Wink

Quote:

It'll buy us time, because the Sempa are so stupid they won't notice when a squad of six on a mission to capture a caravan, fail to report back

If you'd just lost an entire squad for an unknown reason, wouldn't you head up a covert scouting mission to report back, instead of sending another squad in blind, to get trashed in the same way?

Admittedly I'm not a military thinker, but I wouldn't assume the Sempa were so numerous that they could afford to throw away their members like that - especially when you consider the morale implications of losing a second squad.

At the very least, I would think they'd put a more experienced leader in charge of the second attack - one who would pick his team carefully and spend a little time thinking out his options. WOuldn't that caution buy us a little time?

Quote:

We need to protect that caravan and get it moving.

On that, we agree. I think the caravan should keep moving, regardless of whether the mages and some of the soldiers go to track down the remaining Sempa.

I'd like to know how long this caravan journey has to go before it arrives at its destination. It could make a big difference as to whether or not we can expect a second Sempa assault. (apologies if it's already been mentioned, too many SGs, not enough brain-space)

Quote:

And unlike the Sempa, who can afford to leave no survivors, we're going to have a whole company of elated soldiers bragging about their first success. The Sempa are going to find out our numbers, our tactics

Yes, but an informed report from two experienced magic-users is worth a thousand reports from drunken, exultant soldiers. Trying to make sense of hearsay in pubs will be like trying to play Chinese Whispers. Rumours and gossip are no substitute for truth.

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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2006 1:12 pm Post subject:

Shady Stoat wrote:

I'm not entirely convinced yet, although open to being persuaded Smile

To quote a friend, just because I'm right, that doesn't mean that I'm persuasive. Cool

After I finish reading your novella...I mean response Wink

I'll properly address your concerns. Wouldn't want to confuse the simple issues. Very Happy

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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2006 10:05 pm Post subject:

Excellent chapter! <claps enthusiastically> I was torn between decisions for awhile, but in the end I have to agree with Stoat. I suggest you keep the caravan moving, as fast as humanly possible, because what are the odds that other Sempa are going to be around to finish the attack? After all, they've never lost a mage before (so they think) and so have nothing to fear. Undoubtedly, a group going after a simple caravan would be somewhat complacent. Meanwhile, Srun and Roah need to take a handful of soldiers, preferably scouts or ones who can be quiet, so that they can sneak up on the Sempa. Take them out, quickly as possible, and hustle your buns back to the caravan. If an entire squad of Sempa fails to report back on what should be a routine mission, their leaders' fear will be swift and their retribution cautious. Their fear will bloat itself when they wonder who, how many, and how powerful of adversaries they are up against, and that gives you a (slight) advantage over them. _________________ The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing ~ Edmund Burke Sans Dieu Rien Without God, Nothing Visions of Shadow - 2nd part of Uncertain Quests! Chapter Two Dreamwalker - Relocated to Linear Lane Sixth Chapter Linear Story Nightrobber Now Complete!

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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2006 11:55 pm Post subject:

It would be a shame to lose the caravan now, after having sent the remaining two of the first squad running. Stay with the caravan. If Trengin can seek, there may be others that do the same but are not so friendly. There could be many means for the Sempa to be abreast of the situation already, many avenues for them to get accurate information on exactly what happened here. The goal was to save the caravan, not go romping through the woods on some calculated risk. The soldiers have lost every time the Sempa have attacked, except for now. Who really wants the turning factor to run off on a wild goose chase (their seeker is passed out now) and leave them open again? How quickly can the Sempa realize what has happened, or do they already know? Which calculated risk seems more important, two men... or the original objective- the safety of the caravan? _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 6:00 am Post subject:

Hey All, Great arguments for both options. I'm glad I'm not voting This is the last call for opinions from others, or retaliation to the retaliation to the retalitory attack of the defence. Next time I remember* to think about it the poll will go up. Happy Writing. Or something like that. * In a day or two _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 6:13 am Post subject:

Do we get to know how far the caravan is from its destination? Or does everyone but me know, and I'm just being blonde?

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Posted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 7:43 am Post subject:

Shady Stoat wrote:

Do we get to know how far the caravan is from its destination? Or does everyone but me know, and I'm just being blonde? Very Happy

I'm not sure if the chapter says, and my brain is too fuzzled to re-read it at present. Although it'd be the height of stupidity to make camp if you were only a day or less from your destination. That'd just invite the Sempa attack you want to avoid. Confused

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Posted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 12:43 pm Post subject:

Are we sure that the remaining mages are going to report back? It seems that it would be kind of dangerous for them to go back and tell their commanders that they managed to let their entire squad get massacred. I realize that we can't depend on this, but it's still a consideration. And a technicality, Smee (shudder). You said that trust would be "hard earnt". This should be 'earned', like 'learned' instead of 'learnt'. ~sunny

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Posted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 12:55 pm Post subject:

It would be advantageous if we could mark the fleeing mages some way...either a charm or just the old-fashioned having them secretly followed by a couple of trusted soldiers. Lots of useful information could be found out that way. Where do the mages go? Are they isolated on their attacks, or do they have another squad of six close by to make contact with? Do they report to another that remains in the general area but does not get involved with the fight? Do they return to a hidden location? Perhaps they will avoid returning to the Sempa out of fear. Maybe remain together and go into hiding...this would let us know that the enemy is harsh not just from without, but also from within. If they split up and go into hiding, it might be easier to approach them at some point and gain insider information that way, although dangerous because if they are frightened enough to go into hiding, most likely there will be someone lethal hunting them down. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon Jan 16, 2006 4:30 pm Post subject:

ethereal_fauna wrote:

It would be advantageous if we could mark the fleeing mages some way...either a charm or just the old-fashioned having them secretly followed by a couple of trusted soldiers. Lots of useful information could be found out that way.

I like that idea about putting a tracking device on the mages. There probably is some kind of spell of sorts. Either way, a lot could be found out from them. Maybe their base and location. But what would make this idea disastrous would be if they knew they were being tracked and lead their trackers in a roundabout manner. But that is me being the usual pessimist.

Shady Stoat wrote:

Do we get to know how far the caravan is from its destination?

I would think the caravan is still far from its destination. The group did not join the carvan group till last chapter, and then they are hit. So I would guess that the Sempa meant to hit the caravan early on, and they did. I would have done so if I were the enemy.
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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 12:36 pm Post subject:

OK Poll is up for Chapter 9. To answer the query - the caravan is about a week away from it's destination. It's possible to do it in about 3 days on horseback, but the caravan moves slowly. Trengin is out cold, and the remaining Sempa are making a run for it. What does Roah and Srune do now? Ignore the fleeing Sempa and concentrate on getting the caravan moving again. Go after the Sempa alone and tell the soldiers to get moving Go after the Sempa with some trackers, and soliders - get the caravan moving Go after the Sempa with trackers and soliders - tell the caravan to stay put until the threat is sorted. Abandon the Caravan to get Trengin to a healer as soon as possible (the nearest town is a day away) Happy Voting. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 12:52 pm Post subject:

The threesome joined the caravan party to protect it. I think Scrune and Roah should finish that purpose. And besides, it is unlikely the remaining Sempa would reveal anything if they were caught. I all for the idea of just ignoring the Sempa and getting the caravan to its destination. And beside Trengin is out cold, and needs help. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 1:30 pm Post subject:

No option for staying with the caravan, and sending trackers to tail the Sempa? _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 1:30 pm Post subject:

voted to keep the carevan moving after some thought and - as chinaren says i say - i'm winning* *along with everyone else _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 1:33 pm Post subject:

I've added another option that'd I'd forgotten. If you want to change your vote, let me know. Happy Voting. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 1:38 pm Post subject:

Thanks. Went for staying with the caravan and having trackers tail the Sempa. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 2:19 pm Post subject:

The caravan is key - its cargo can make the difference between defeat and victory, so it must be protected. If trackers can tail the fleeing Sempa without getting killed, so much the better. I voted for the last option.

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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 2:22 pm Post subject:

Curses. I had thought of fauna's idea earlier today, but didn't see the choice, so I voted differently. Okay, in spirit, I am all fo the idea of staying with the carvan, but sending trackers to tail the Sempa. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 2:23 pm Post subject:

Rave - I'm sure I can cope with deducting one from the top option and adding it to the bottom. Is that what you'd like to do? _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 2:27 pm Post subject:

Can you do that? That would be great. Thanks, Smee. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2006 5:34 pm Post subject:

I also voted to send trackers after the Sempa, but stay with the caravan. As important as the Sempa and the caravan are, they can't afford to let either go. ~sunny

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Posted: Sat Jan 21, 2006 3:31 am Post subject:

raises hand could you do that for me as well, take one from the top and add to the bottom please? _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Sun Jan 22, 2006 4:53 pm Post subject:

Adds another request to move my vote from option 1 to the last option

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 9:04 am Post subject:

Hey Everybody Chapter 10 has just been posted here. As it's a Tuesday I will take it as an opportunity to get back on my original schedule. So Discussion until Friday, and then Poll until Sunday. Next Tuesday you'll find out what happens to Trengin and Co. Happy discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 9:38 am Post subject:

Excellent chapter, and it's great that you captured the mage alive. I'm sure the elders will be pleased by that. I'll consult the war room and return with some suggestions. :biggrin: _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 10:48 am Post subject:

i've read it, and i'll come back with more suggestion later however for now, i think he should definatly keep the mage alive, he is heavily outnumbered and it can't be that hard for all of you to keep him sedated and in your power the eldars are already not going to be happy with you for letting a chosen die, and bringing back a mage alive could well improve your standing with them get back to you later with more _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 10:53 am Post subject:

Nice chapter, Smee.

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With an annoying sigh my second nodded his understanding and moved back into place.

I was trying to understand this sentence as I read it. Is the second annoyed after hearing the long orders? Or does the sighs his second constantly gives annoying?

So you have the mage, thats good. Like everyone else has said, the elders will be pleased. I will post later if any ideas come up for what to do next. One choice probably will be to leave nobody behind.
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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 11:01 am Post subject:

Thanks Rave - fixed. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 11:07 am Post subject:

Good chapter - again I'd say keep the Mage alive, but have someone keep a very close eye on him. At the first signs of life, whack him unconscious again. If in doubt, whack! As for the rest, I think you'll have to leave your second here to guard the bridge, along with two, preferably three of the younger mages. They'll recover more quickly than the older ones, and if less of them are here, they'll need to uphold their energy as much as possible. Experience may well count for less than resilience when defending this bridge. Four people total allows two to rest and two to keep watch. The rest can go back and send reinforcements as soon as possible - providing that the Teachers let them live, of course

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 11:12 am Post subject:

and make sure the fire mage is pne of the ones with you - afterall he was tempted to desert _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 4:27 pm Post subject:

I agree with Stoat

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 4:49 pm Post subject:

Excellent chapter (as per usual). Capturing a live one instead of destroying them all will help the Sempa tremendously, especially as it's a mage. He can be tortured to reveal who his companions are (if he has any) and if they have anything to fear from other magi. Just get back to the Elders...and quickly, before your little party gets interrupted.

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 5:45 pm Post subject:

Can't you send a message for reenforcements somehow? If you are going to hold the bridge you would need some anyway at some point. Keep the mage alive and take him back for... questioning. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 8:50 pm Post subject:

How far is it back to the Sempa? If we're talking a journey of days, we'd better figure out something to do with this mage. Whacking him every few hours isn't going to cut it - we can't be sure that we'll be able to tell when he comes to consciousness. Maybe we keep him blindfolded, hanging upside down and with ears plugged. If he doesn't know where anybody is, he can't direct his attacks. Or maybe there's a way to keep a magical shield around him so that he can't attack out, similar to the shields where no one can attack in. I agree that we should keep a few behind to stand guard. They should hide well, and make sure that no one who approaches leaves alive. The longer we keep our enemies not knowing about their defeat, the better.

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 9:00 pm Post subject:

Yay, new chapter! It's very good you got the mage alive (though not for him ) so try to keep it that way. You and the captive should head back, along with Teron, so you can keep an eye on him. Also take most of the others with you, but leave some to guard. Four seems a good number, as said earlier. Mulim seems a good choice, as he seems reliable. Perhaps Kewor as well, but I'd be wary of him. Just a feeling I had. Also, if you do leave some of your team there - don't make it obvious. Keep them hidden, and always on the lookout for the extremely unlikely survivor, or anyone coming to investigate. Eliminate any unwanted visitors. How far is the bridge above the river below? Is it at all possible that a soldier could have jumped off, and survived? I can just imagine him floating downstream to be rescued somewhere and start spreading the story of how one of the Sempa was killed...not that they could plausibly do anything about it. _________________ The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing ~ Edmund Burke Sans Dieu Rien Without God, Nothing Visions of Shadow - 2nd part of Uncertain Quests! Chapter Two Dreamwalker - Relocated to Linear Lane Sixth Chapter Linear Story Nightrobber Now Complete!

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Posted: Tue Jan 24, 2006 10:39 pm Post subject:

Quote:

By nightfall everyone had prepared to leave and I'd ordered an immediate departure. With Margn guiding and Jarvis scouting out a head we made fast progress, and managed to avoid contact with anything crossing our path. Once during the journey a lone traveller was discovered but by the time the main group had caught up to Jarvis he'd taken care of him; a small pile of dust was the only remaining trace.

We rested during the day in an area of woodland. We cycled a guard to maintain a wall around the camp whilst we slept, but encountered nothing more dangerous than a passing elk. As dusk arrived we continued the march and just before dawn we made it to a good place for a camp.

2 nights (days) travel to get back.

Quote:

Or maybe there's a way to keep a magical shield around him so that he can't attack out, similar to the shields where no one can attack in.

That's more or less what's round him at the moment. It's no easy matter holding it for 2 days though. Everyone is weak from shifting rocks as it is.

Blindfolded, upside down and plugging ears sounds impressive, although I'm not sure he's too interested in targeting his power, just obliterating everything near him.

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Can't you send a message for reenforcements somehow?

No. None of your team has scrying powers, they are considered impossible although Trengin has developed some to a limited degree.

You were given a full squad of 12 to get this job done, which includes keeping it secure until you've reported back.

Some excellent thoughts people, thanks for reading. Smile

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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 5:07 am Post subject:

The latest poll for Trengin is now closed. With an overwhelming majority and 11 votes you have decided to Send trackers after the Sempa and get on with moving the caravan. Trengin will be looked over by the field healer. Look for this chapter next Tuesday (31st) Thanks for all your contributions and votes. Happy Reading _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 5:32 am Post subject:

Hey Smee: isn't Kewor dead? You said "the elders wouldn't be happy with Kewor's death" or something like that, and then Norral spoke to Kewor. Also, that would mean you only have eleven on your squad now. Don't leave fire-boy to wait for reinforcements. He was already considering deserting. I would leave the second, though (whether or not its Kewor) because someone who stays needs to be in charge. Other than that, I don't know. ~sunny

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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 5:42 am Post subject:

Suneila wrote:

Hey Smee: isn't Kewor dead?

Karak was the mage that died.
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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 8:45 am Post subject:

Thanks Sunny - sorted it. It's the two names beginning with K - I knew I should have avoided it. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 8:53 am Post subject:

get the fire mage to oblitorate karaks body so that no one who comes along later will know a mage died, it's easier than lugging it back with you or buring it _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 8:57 am Post subject:

Norral has already dealt with the body whilst absorbing the powers. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 9:00 am Post subject:

It seems prudent to keep the larger part of your group at the bridge, along with the captive, and send two to report back to the elders. Two can move swiftly, and the elders hasten to question the enemy captured, rather than a group trying to haul a reluctant mage somewhere. If Norral stays behind with his command (and his captive) and begins an inquisition, then Kewor and another could report (Kewor is second, and should be capable of reporting to the elders). The elders may just expect Norral to handle the captive anyway. Although the Sempa are tired, so is the captive. Keep him worn down without allowing adequate time for recovery. Finding the source of the bridge shield is another priority. If you could discover how that works, then you might just be able to use that information to your advantage while holding the mage captive. If he is placed into a personal version of the bridge shield, he wouldn't be able to cast magic out onto you from within, correct? Or perhaps a personal version for whoever is questioning the prisoner at the time, to keep him from casting magic in. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 9:08 am Post subject:

Quote:

Norral has already dealt with the body whilst absorbing the powers.

i knew that
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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 12:34 pm Post subject:

Fauna is right that most of the group should stay behind, but I think Norral needs to return. He is the leader, and is therefore accountable for the both the death of Karak and the capture of the other mage. He should take fire-boy and one other with him, leaving the other eight to guard the mage, and possibly find out the source of the bridge's protection. ~sunny

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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 2:55 pm Post subject:

Norral should stay and secure the bridge. His command isn't over until the bridge is completely secure and the elders have been made aware of the changes in the enemy's tactics (such as having a mage on their side). It would not be wise for him to leave what had just been won, through great difficulty and loss. Especially if the captive is to stay behind. Too much could go wrong. Norral doesn't need to be off playing page boy, even if it is an important message to deliver to an important audience. His second in command can do that. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2006 10:07 pm Post subject:

I think Norral should return with the enemy mage and most of his squad, leaving four behind to secure the bridge. The appearance of the enemy mage is potentially of huge importance in this war, potentially even more so than the bridge itself. Which to me means: - Given the importance of what just happened, informing the Elders is also an important duty, and one that Norral shouldn't shirk or leave to others. - The Elders are going to want to put the mage in a secure position and interrogate him as soon as possible. Norral and his squad of 12 are not able to do either of those things well, so his first priority should be to get him to the Elders. - Watching the enemy mage is probably harder than securing the bridge, so Norral should personally see to the more difficult task. - Given the scope of the force that we've just defeated, it's unlikely there's going to be a serious challenge to the bridge in the four days it would take to go back to the Sempa and send reinforcements. So it is probably safe with four mages.

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Posted: Thu Jan 26, 2006 2:27 pm Post subject:

What a flip-flopper I am. I agree with Key. Norral should take all but four of his squad with him, along with the enemy mage, to meet with the elders. (for some reason, I had only thought through the possiblities where the enemy mage stayed at the bridge.) ~sunny

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Posted: Thu Jan 26, 2006 5:05 pm Post subject:

Trying to transport a reluctant mage is going to be a poor idea, as is leaving the bridge behind with four tired Sempa. Travel increases the possibility that the mage might escape; it's more likely to be successful if Norral secures him at the bridge. Leaving the bridge behind opens up greater possibility for soldiers to move in and reclaim it. Their fighting tactics aren't hindered at all by the bridge shield, and who knows whether or not more soldiers might arrive to reclaim the lost bridge. Surely no one escaped to spread the news that the bridge was captured, but while the commander (in this case Norral) is off playing glorified messenger boy trying to haul his prize back to the elders, this important bridge is going to attract some attention when no one reports to different outposts or units. The soldiers at the bridge weren't a lone or isolated force, and their sudden quiet and absence is soon to get noticed- and it's doubtful that it'll take more than a day or two for someone to suspect something. In that time we don't want Norral off struggling en route to the elders, combating some captive mage intent on escape or suicide. Then the loss of Karak and all the effort expended at the bridge will be for nothing- not exactly impressive to the elders regardless of how smart you look reporting back to them (with the job half-finished). _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Thu Jan 26, 2006 9:11 pm Post subject:

ethereal_fauna wrote:

Travel increases the possibility that the mage might escape; it's more likely to be successful if Norral secures him at the bridge.

On the contrary, the sooner we can get the mage to the Elders, the less likely he is to escape. Keeping the mage powerless requires a concerted effort by several mages to keep him shielded; it's much better to get him quickly to a place where we can do that easily (i.e. the Sempa home base) than to keep him at the bridge, where limited numbers of mages will have to divide their attention between keeping him shielded and (if needed) defending the bridge.

ethereal_fauna wrote:

Leaving the bridge behind opens up greater possibility for soldiers to move in and reclaim it...The soldiers at the bridge weren't a lone or isolated force, and their sudden quiet and absence is soon to get noticed- and it's doubtful that it'll take more than a day or two for someone to suspect something.

It's certainly possible that the enemy will suspect something within a day or two. But I don't think we have to worry about them retaking the bridge. Here's why:

First, they probably won't be able to get there in time. This bridge was a major enemy base, and typically major bases like that aren't all clustered together. So there well may not even be another base of soldiers of this size within a few days travel. And even if there is, it takes time to mobilize an army. It's not like the Sempa, traveling with a dozen mages who can just start off - if you've got several hundred soldiers, you've got to plan, get provision, break camp, etc. They may well suspect something within a day or two, but the idea that they'd be in a position to figure out what happened, mobilize an army, and get there within four or five days from the attack seems highly unlikely.

Second, even if they in theory could, they'd have to be crazy to try it. This bridge was their strongest point - it had a brilliant commander commanding hundreds of well-prepared fighters, using a special, one-of-a-kind magic shield, and aided by a secret weapon, a mage on their side. And with all that, we completely destroyed every single one of the bridge's defenders. What commander, on hearing that, is immediately going to charge into battle with soldiers that are less prepared, without the benefit of the magic shield, and without a mage? The enemy may be smart or they may be stupid, but they're not likely suicidal.

Third, even if they did attack, the four mages could take them on. By the time the soldiers got there, the mages would be quite well-rested and at full power. Norral said it before, for mages killing soldiers is like squashing ants. Two mages could maintain a shield around the group, and the other two could rain death on the enemy until there's no one left.

The only way I can see that the bridge would be in danger is if the enemy has another mage with them. And in fact, they'd probably need more than one, or he'd be seriously overpowered by our four. It's unlikely that there are more mages nearby, for the simple reason that if there were, the enemy would have put them at the bridge with the other mage, where they were clearly expecting our attack.

If, against all odds, there's a squad of enemy mages nearby, then the bridge might well be lost. But in that case, we are fighting a very different war than the one we expected to fight, and in this new war, getting an enemy mage back to the Sempa for interrogation is probably more important than keeping the bridge. Some "errands" are more important than others, and this one may be the key to knowing the enemy's strength and intent.

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 3:58 am Post subject:

Compelling arguments. What would be the best way to truss the mage up and cart him along safely? I'll have to shift my thinking from our foothold on the 'frontline' to falling back to the 'rear' and definitely if we're taking this mage back, we don't want any possible means of escape, or outside contact. Our captive should remain blind, deaf and mute if we're ferrying him into our protected midst. I don't think that keeping him blindfolded, hanging upside down and with ears plugged will prove adequate. ponders _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 4:35 am Post subject:

Excellent thoughts that are much appreciated. Hmmmm...a poll would be going up today, but I'll give it until Sunday in case there are any more thoughts/ideas on either an alternative option, or ways of incapacitating the enemy mage. Happy Discussion. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 4:43 am Post subject:

Just a thought, but I'm presuming a Mage needs to be able to concentrate while casting one of his runes/symbols/spelly things? If we keep him in constant agony, I would think concentration would be difficult. I'm sure the bad guys could come up with some inventive torture techniques to while away those travelling-hours. An alternative thought is that he needs his fingers to make the gestures. We could break all the bones in them or burn them into uselessness. That neatly combines the incredible agony and the taking-away of spell gestures. We don't have to be hampered by decency here. These are the bad guys, after all

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 4:48 am Post subject:

Doesn't casting need gestures? If we used the tying up option would he be able to cast spells? (I can't remember if this was discussed already, sorry). _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 5:02 am Post subject:

Magic in this world is fundamentally Rune based. The creation and casting of a rune generates the spell. In these fairly early days of magic the vast majority of magic (as you have noted) requires gestures to shape out the runes. However, as you may remember from when Trengin and Co were tied up awaiting the arrival of the Captain, some spells can be cast without gestures. In this example the runes were just formed in the mind. This is only possible with a very limited set of spells and nothing too powerful. Runes can also be spoken, drawn, sung, or played on an instrument. The latter two are (like many aspects of magic such as scrying) very rare, and thought impossible at this time, although there could be a mage somewhere who has some limited casting abilities. Breaking fingers, keeping in agony - all excellent ideas that will help lessen the risk. Other ideas are welcome as well. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 5:37 am Post subject:

I'm liking the finger breaking idea. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 9:48 am Post subject:

finger breaking sounds good and btw, are there any spells yet to awaken/talk to/control the dead in this world that are known about? _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 9:57 am Post subject:

No - but they fall in the same category. I don't know that they've even been mentioned in Battle to the End - any such powers will be like others, possible someone has found a way to tap into them. Would have been dangerous experimentation though. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 10:03 am Post subject:

doesn't matter then if they knew one of the eldars could awaken the dead or a spirit then they could simpoly kill the mage and get the get to re-awaken him afterwards _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 10:10 am Post subject:

Good idea - and if there was any one of the Sempa that might be able to tap into such powers then it'd be one of the Elders... or maybe a Teacher shudder. But Norral doesn't know of such powers - does he want to kill him and take that chance? Kill the mage will be on the poll anyway - if that is chosen then I'll take such ideas in to account. Thanks. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 10:12 am Post subject:

i wouldn't advise doing it unless he knew it could be done _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 6:35 pm Post subject:

Whew, that took me some time to catch up. I think the decision point is kinda hard, so I'll just wait to see the options. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous Last edited by D-Lotus on Fri Jan 27, 2006 9:41 pm; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 6:49 pm Post subject:

Do we still have the option to leave some people behind? From what I gleaned from this chapter, I think the Kewor and the fire-specialist should be a part of the group that stays behind. Kewor because he is second in command, and the fire-specialist since he seems so reluctant to return. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2006 2:28 am Post subject:

All options are still going on the poll - they are all detailed enough to be successfully written, you guys will just need to pick the one that works to your advantage. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Jan 28, 2006 8:31 am Post subject:

Thats good to hear. I wasn't sure what exactly we're deciding on. I guess I will just wait till I see the options before I give a definite view on what should happen in the next chapter. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2006 11:40 am Post subject:

OK Poll is up for Chapter 10. Poll will be up for 3 days, so get your votes in quick. What does Norral do about the enemy mage? All suggestions for ways of keeping him contained will be taken into consideration when writing. Happy Voting. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2006 12:08 pm Post subject:

Lets make sure that we have someone bashing the mage with a big stick every once in a while

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Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 4:14 am Post subject:

voted with what appears to be the majority _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 4:33 am Post subject:

Yes, it appears I did too. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 4:38 am Post subject:

It therefore seems that Key's essay convinced quite a few - that is indeed quite a majority. Plenty of time yet though - it could swing the other way. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 5:54 pm Post subject:

I too am going with the majority. Norral is the leader, and should go with their captive back to the elders. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2006 3:27 am Post subject:

I was sternly scolded by the war room for wavering on my original inclination to avoid travelling with a captive mage, esp back towards our elders. Should have known. :biggrin: _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2006 8:42 am Post subject:

Hey Everybody Chapter 11 has just been posted here. Discussion until the next chapter. Next Tuesday (7) you'll find out what happens when Norral decides what to do with his prisoner. Happy discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2006 8:55 am Post subject:

Perhaps not a new decision point, but it is high time we revisit the unfinished business of Trengin's joining the Circle. Seems like he's got the information he sought...he knows what the stakes are a little more now, not just from what he experienced in the clearing, but also from the images he saw in the blackness. Over the next week he'll have a chance to study the contents of the caravan, and also to determine if he's going to get sucked back into that blackness next time he closes his eyes. It didn't appear that his harrowing experience is something he'll dismiss lightly. I believe that the struggle has become much more personal for Trengin now. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2006 12:43 pm Post subject:

Intriguing chapter you got there, Smee... Decision point is a valuable one. We need to work out where Trengin stands and what he knows. So, on with it... Is Trengin part of the circle now? I'd say yes... and no. He's still not going to take part in anything he thinks is suicidally stupid. I feel that he's going to be the sanity-check for the enthusiasm/fanaticism of the other two. He'll hold them to things they can do, rather than things they think they must. Having said that, he's bound to feel there's too much at stake now to sit back comfortably and do nothing. The circle is the best way forward and he'll take it. With reservations. As for what the images he saw meant... The first images/thoughts are of the Sempa attack that the circle have just repelled. The second are of Norral and the captive Mage. At least, I think so. We seem to be catching someone's thoughts. Or some two peoples' thoughts. Telepathic link, perhaps? Is the universal force of magic linking them together, or has Trengin a more immediate link to the Sempa, other than his random scouting abilities? If so, can he use them consciously, to find out what the Sempa plan next and make it easier for the circle to foil them next time? If he does, are they going to be able to use the link in turn to find out about the circle. The possibility has to be considered, given that the light that drew Trengin back seems to have been spotted and investigated by the Sempa that he was watching over at the time. Lots of questions. I'll try to come back with some answers next time around

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Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2006 5:30 pm Post subject:

If he can remotely spy on the Sempa, that could be a very big boost to the Circle. On the same token, if the Sempa can look back through his eyes onto him, it might be best that he remain outside the Circle, and unaware of any new members that add to their numbers. Perhaps it's best if he remain ignorant of those he would help, and instead become intimate with those he opposes. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2006 5:50 pm Post subject:

Aye, help the circle, but don't become a full member says I. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2006 8:13 pm Post subject:

F5 all. The possibility that the Sempa might be able to see through his mind, or even take him over, should be enough to keep him from keeping too close to the Circle, even though he shares their cause. I'd say an investigation of the contents of the caravan is the first order of business for Trengin. Maybe he can find something that will help him understand what's happening when he Seeks. The ability to spy on the enemy like this could be a hugely powerful weapon, but he shouldn't try it out again until he understands better what's going on and can be sure he's not going to get swept away again.

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Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2006 11:56 pm Post subject:

Great discussion so far guys - some excellent considerations. It's also the last day for voting what Norral does next (if you want it written by next Tuesday anyway ) - I'll be closing it when I get home after work, about 5pm GMT. Happy Discussion. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Feb 01, 2006 11:41 am Post subject:

OK - POLL CLOSED Thanks for all the votes. You have voted for Norral to lead all but 4 of his team back to the Elders with the captive mage. Look out for the chapter Tuesday 7th Feb _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Feb 01, 2006 11:47 am Post subject:

Looking forward to next Tuesday (although not as much as the following Thursday ) _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Wed Feb 01, 2006 1:43 pm Post subject:

I read your most recent chapter. Nicely written as always, Smee. I have this feeling that Trengin is gradually accepting that being alone may not be a good thing. Roah and Scrune seem to be great friends. I guess sometimes people need a scare to sort of open them up to a option they usually wouldn't take advantage of. Again, great writing. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 3:01 am Post subject:

ethereal_fauna wrote:

Looking forward to next Tuesday (although not as much as the following Thursday Wink

)

3 days Floorna! Shocked

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 3:04 am Post subject:

chinaren wrote:

3 days Floorna! Shocked

Yep. Sure is Charinen. Smile

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 5:40 am Post subject:

Fauna, I am curious, what are you counting down to? _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 7:37 am Post subject:

when she comes to england _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 7:50 am Post subject:

Just might be what Lordy said. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 10:10 am Post subject:

Hey Everybody Chapter 12 has just been posted here. You get it earlier because it's done and I'm useless at sitting on chapters. Next Tuesday (14th) you'll find out what happens when Trengin and Co get back to Etonreh and what they discover in the caravan. Thanks for your comments and... Happy discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 10:35 am Post subject:

Great chapter! Again I'll have to consult before I make any definitive posting here, but it'd be best for Norral to open with the death of his team member. That's something not to be taken lightly, but will settle better when followed by news that an enemy mage has been captured. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 10:37 am Post subject:

Another corking chapter Smee The first and most obvious thought is that the Sempa Elders are going to have to forego a little of their smugness from now on. No longer will they be able to ‘leave one person alive’ to run back and report. Their new policy should be to attack swiftly, unpredictably and without mercy (not that mercy was ever one of their prime considerations!) I don’t think that larger squads need to be a consideration for now. It has been surprise that has taken their teams out so far, not disadvantage by numbers. However, I think the squads can no longer be recruited on the sheer pleasure of hearing the screams. They need to get the job done, from a distance and shielded if necessary. The Elders can always offer them compensation in the form of ‘bring back one of the Mages that’s working against us and you’ll get the chance to help with the torture.’ If they’re in it for the power trip and the evidence of pain caused, that should be a fresh incentive for them. Maybe they could sent a few scouts out to infiltrate the enemy though? Have them return to normal lives and let the word out that they wish to join with the forces of good? A source of information from within the anti-Sempa camp might be invaluable! As for what Norral could tell them, I don’t think he really has that much to hide. He’s acted as well as he can under difficult circumstances. If the Elders wish to punish him, then I don’t think anything he holds back will alter that. I await the opinions of others though, as I’ve probably missed something somewhere

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 12:46 pm Post subject:

F5 both of them, and shielding should become a common practise Norrel shouldn't forget to mention that he disposed of the body, and no-one apart from the captured mage knows they lost a member - although that point is sort of moot now, seeing how the other attack was foiled _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 6:34 pm Post subject:

The most important question for the Elders is how widespread is this resistance of mages. So interrogation of the captive is called for before any other decisions are made. If there is some identifiable organization, assassination of the leaders should become the our prime motivation. If an functioning organization of mages resisting the Sempa grows, that will be the greatest threat the Sempa have faced, not only because of their power, but because of their potential effect on the our recruits. If things go badly for us, our mages might could start to desert. This might also be a good time to reconsider the purpose of this war. If the point is to rule the world as Chosen beings served by those beneath us who don't have magic, it might be wise to start offering that deal to the non-mages. We've already amply demonstrated our ability to kill at will. Suppose we start offering cities, or leaders, or nations, or even spies, the choice between death and service to the Sempa. If we can get them to turn against these new mages, or at least let us know where they are, we might be able to nip this potential enemy in the bud. We'll need more information from the captive, but we should think about this and be ready to move quickly. It takes time to recruit mages and build an organization; we can't give them that time.

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 6:35 pm Post subject:

Good chapter, some nice gruesome details! Excellent! As for the elders. Well, if they were wise, they should have planned a contingency already for just such an event. They know there are other mages and as their attacks increased they may be forced into the conflict. The first course of action would be to try and find out how coordinated the 'good' mages are. Were these incidents co-incidents, or part of a more organized force? They must have other attacks going on, and so far (as far as I know) there have only been two cases of enemy mage activity. Now they are aware of this, they can adjust their attacks accordingly. Bigger groups is one way to go, they would seem to outnumber the good guys, and hence wizard for wizard they have superiority in numbers. Also, some proactive attacks maybe. Seek out the wizards and attack them at source. Eliminate the threat. That's all I have... for now. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Mon Feb 06, 2006 6:38 pm Post subject:

Damn, Key just beat me to the button there! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue Feb 07, 2006 10:17 pm Post subject:

Key said to start offering cities a deal, death or submission. But I don't think we have enough numbers yet to do this, or to keep a hold of it for long. I think a valid option is to train non-mages if they submit to the sempa. They need to recruit people if their purpose is dominating the world, like Key said. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Wed Feb 08, 2006 2:06 pm Post subject:

Wonderful chapter, I am sad that I missed it when it was first posted. Anyways, I am all for the idea of interrogating the captured mage. A lot of information could come out of him if he speaks. Norral could also inquire about the caravan attack Darak had failed to complete. And by comparing the two missions, some sort of information could be gleaned. As for what to tell the Elders. Norral should just tell them straight up the basic facts. Nothing assumed should yet be revealed until solid proof can support such assumptions. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Wed Feb 08, 2006 9:26 pm Post subject:

I think Norral should also stress the fact that he wasn't given much information to make a plan for his mission...although this might make the elders angry. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Thu Feb 09, 2006 6:26 pm Post subject:

You're right, D. The elders probably wouldn't like Norral knowing too much. He may be a squad leader, but he is still a subordinate and has to answer to them. I think Norral should make his own inquries without having to get information from the Elders. Besides what the Elders may tell him, may be skewed or bias opinions. Norral needs to keep an open mind here if he wants to find a solution to the problems he is facing now. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Tue Feb 14, 2006 7:07 pm Post subject:

So...are we gonna have a poll..or something? _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Wed Feb 15, 2006 4:09 pm Post subject:

The clock is ticking, tick tock....Smee we await the poll, so we argue our choices to our hearts' content. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Feb 16, 2006 2:21 am Post subject:

OK guys. Apology time... You're missing a chapter, and you seem to be wanting a poll. I thought opinion was fairly agreed, but reading through the comments again I think you're right. OK Poll is up. So a couple of quick fire polls for you guys, starting with Trengin... - He stops messing around and confirms full membership to the Circle. - He is still unsure - particularly after the mind-seek incidents - He'll join but ask that Srune doesn't let him know about anything they are up to so that he can't jepordise the Circle if he is compromised. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Feb 16, 2006 12:14 pm Post subject:

Trengin should just "stop messing around" as you put it. This whole mind-seeking stuff should have told him something more than can perhaps help the mages if they do unite against the Sempa. Going all undecided all just shows too much insecurity, and I think that is selfish for Trengin. Should he join, Trengin should understand that the circle is made up of people who are his friends. He shouldn't worry about any of repurcussions against him would hurt his friends. If they were worried about such a thing happening they aren't his friends. They also probably wouldn't let him join the circle in the first place. By accepting Trengin into the group, there is an unsaid agreement that whatever happens to one member may affect the group as all. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Feb 16, 2006 6:04 pm Post subject:

i think he should join forthwith, and become a full member, especially now he knows what they're up against _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Thu Feb 16, 2006 8:20 pm Post subject:

Could any of those members who voted for the third option, please give their reasoning? I am just curious as in your choice that is all. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Feb 16, 2006 8:26 pm Post subject:

Well, I think the option speaks for itself really. There is a risk that the mysterious link between whatshisface and the bad guys may be a two way thing, hence limiting information would limit what they found out if that were indeed the case. takes deep breath Perfectly clear. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Thu Feb 16, 2006 8:39 pm Post subject:

Makes sense, china. But I don't think such limits would keep Trengin from information. I would think it would give a big advantage. But obviously that is my opinion. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2006 6:15 am Post subject:

Well, he could always forge a closer link later on, once he has found out more about this affliction. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sun Feb 19, 2006 9:22 am Post subject:

Perhaps. Although I don't see Trengin as weak being just because of his affliction. I think he would continue on with what he is doing like any other normal person. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sun Feb 19, 2006 5:55 pm Post subject:

Quote:

Although I don't see Trengin as weak being just because of his affliction.

No, I agree with this, but I think the point was if he knew all the Circle secrets, and there was some kind of two way link with the enemy, it could leak information.

I think. Damn. Now I am confused.

Anyway, I think it would fit in with his initial reluctance to join the group, though now he has seen the extent of the threat he knows action must be taken, so I chose it as a kind of middle ground as well.

Being a sitting on the fence kinda guy that I am. Wink

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Posted: Sun Feb 19, 2006 7:26 pm Post subject:

Don't lose confidence, chinaren! That's damn good reasoning, and that's why I voted for the third option, too. If there is a two-way connection, knowing all that the Circle knows could not only endanger Trengin's friends but also put Trengin's own life at risk, as it could give the Sempa the knowledge they have to win this war. For our own sake as well as for others, we should keep ourselves in the dark about the Circle's plans.

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Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2006 12:25 am Post subject:

Man this got huge fast. What is the story at, 12 chapters, 13? Something like that. I must shamefully confess that the last time I read it, I only got as far as chapter three and that was some months ago. I feel this is a horrible way to return all the support and cheering on that you provided, Smee, and I will correct it very soon! I'm just so damn behind on everything - I don't know when I'm sleeping anymore most nights, or how much progress I'm gonna make on what. Life got so unfathomably busy for someone with such a lack of one as myself. I enjoyed what I've read so far, and hope to have some more constructive feedback soon. I'm glad to see you're storygame is such a hit! - aaaackk! Dept. _________________ Sector 17 -- Rebuilding... ... ... In the desert I saw a creature, naked, bestial, Who, squatting upon the ground, Held his heart in his hands, And ate of it. I said, "Is it good, friend?" "It is bitter--bitter," he answered; "But I like it Because it is bitter And because it is my heart." -- Stephen Crane

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Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2006 4:23 am Post subject:

Thanks Reiso - and as always, great to see you around. Yes it did get big quickly - I managed 6 or 7 weeks of a Chapter per week, until Christmas ruined that schedule. I haven't really found it again since. Don't think you owe me anything for supporting Thorns. Thorns itself was more than enough return for that. I look forward to you catching up as your thoughts are always informative and/or amusing, but don't kill yourself doing it. There's plenty more chapters left in this story yet and more than enough time for you to get involved Happy Reading As for the rest of you. Thank you for your discussion of the latest poll. I'll be closing it when I get home (about 5 hours) so any final voters get in quick. Happy Discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2006 5:02 pm Post subject:

chinaren wrote:

Quote:

Although I don't see Trengin as weak being just because of his affliction.

No, I agree with this, but I think the point was if he knew all the Circle secrets, and there was some kind of two way link with the enemy, it could leak information.

Ah. I understand now what you were saying. Although from what has been written, said link does not seem to be well-settled yet. I would still take the dare and join the Circle as a full member.

LIke you said he knows the danger. But even if he does not know the Circle information he puts his friends at risk also. I think he should just tell them outright that he may have link to the Sempa, and see how his friends react to that.
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Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2006 5:14 pm Post subject:

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I think he should just tell them outright that he may have link to the Sempa, and see how his friends react to that.

Yes, I am with you all the way on that one!
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Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2006 5:17 pm Post subject:

Good to know that we're on the same wavelength finally. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Tue Feb 21, 2006 4:14 am Post subject:

Thanks for all the votes - the poll is now closed. It's a surprisingly divided result, but the slightly more cautious crowd win with 6 votes to 5. Is a poll required for Norral, or are you all agreed that he'll answer the Elders questions honestly and not try to hold anything back. If one person disagrees then I'll put a poll up. Happy Discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Feb 21, 2006 4:55 am Post subject:

I think he will spill the beans. I don't really see a good reason not to. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue Feb 21, 2006 5:40 am Post subject:

He'll answer their questions...I don't think he'd risk the wrath of discovery should he try deception. Although I do think he'll deliver the bad news first, before moving on to the capture of the enemy mage. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Tue Feb 21, 2006 1:31 pm Post subject:

yes, F5 both of those two _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Mon Feb 27, 2006 11:21 am Post subject:

I don't think anyone is disagreeing, Smee. ~sunny

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Posted: Mon Feb 27, 2006 12:07 pm Post subject:

Thanks Sunny, There is still hope of a chapter tomorrow - but an impending fine spent my writing time today on a Battle to the End chapter. You'll get them soon. Happy Reading _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Feb 28, 2006 9:15 am Post subject:

Hey Everybody Chapter 13a has just been posted here. The proper Chapter will follow as soon as I can. Thanks for your comments and... Happy discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Feb 28, 2006 12:34 pm Post subject:

like it, and are you saying that there's no descion point for this one? _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Tue Feb 28, 2006 12:37 pm Post subject:

It is an interlude chapter that originally Ingro was going to write, but unfortunately he didn't have the time. The Trengin chapter will follow soon with the decision point that will include whether to accept the mission from the General or to do something else. Discussion is free to start now on this. A poll will go up when you have the full information from the next part of the chapter. Happy Reading _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Feb 28, 2006 1:10 pm Post subject:

Then the Circle already receives recognition. Wonderful. Once the caravan is assured safe delivery to its destination, then checking out the bridge seems like a logical choice for the Circle, although developments between now and then might change their mind. News travels fast and they might learn of the actual attack on the bridge. If they know Wallis (the mage captured from the bridge), or simply hear of another mage willing to oppose the Sempa that has been captured, then they might attempt a rescue. Of course even in that event, checking out the bridge first might be wiser than immediate pursuit. Great interlude...thanks for the TTB fix _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Wed Mar 01, 2006 5:20 am Post subject:

It's great to get another perspective on the conflict. Certainly food for thought in there.

Smee wrote:

The General had remained quiet throughout the rest of the report, his own eyes hiding any emotion.

"So, more have joined our cause," he whispered to himself.

Presumably he is referring to Mages already on the side of good. That begs the question as to what was more important to defend than the caravan. We know of one mage at the Bridge, but are there others? How many? Where are they?

More importantly, can the Circle allow itself to be sent blindly in a new direction, without at least some of these questions being answered. Trengin and his cohorts are volunteers, not soldiers. They need to be kept informed of what is going on, so they can choose where best to distribute their talents. With the best will in the world, Officers of war are not going to be able to say where Magic-users can be best used. Magic-users themselves are the best candidates for that job.

Trengin already suspects that other good mages are out there. Once that suspicion is confirmed, I think he (or at least his group) will want to know a lot more about what is going on around them...

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Posted: Wed Mar 01, 2006 9:29 pm Post subject:

Great plot so far. Keep it up and don't let it drag! _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Sat Mar 04, 2006 9:11 pm Post subject:

Finally I read this interlude. Like others have said, it is nice to see another perspective on what has happened so far. I think going to explore the bridge is the next logical step for the Circle. Compared to the General or any of his other officers, Trengin and Co seem to be the best choice to investigate anything considering magic and mages. But of course like Shady has pointed out, Trengin will want to know any other details about the situation. Finding out the information may be hard though since they are not fully trustworthy in the General's eyes. First that trust needs to be established. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 9:01 am Post subject:

Hey Everybody Chapter 13b has just been posted here. Thanks for your comments and... Happy discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd! Last edited by Smee on Wed Mar 15, 2006 10:03 am; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 9:24 am Post subject:

Great, a new chapter! I'll run off to read it and return soon for a proper comment. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 10:37 am Post subject:

Great chapter. Very informative - and a few sneaky details tucked away beneath the sightlines First of all, we may well have heard of this before, but the Captain mentioned a dig-site from which these tomes were unearthed. If we can get a location on the dig-site, it might come in useful at some point (for example, if the wagon were to mysteriously come a cropper before it was put to its full use). That aside, though, I think we should definitely let the captain know about the troublemaker. The Sempa are bound to have some spies and double agents watching and sabotaging the side of good. It would be in their interests to sow discord about any Mages who chose to join this side - which is exactly what the lieutenant was doing. I'm sure the Captain will take it seriously. He's a military man, he must know the stakes involved. I'm sure that Trengin will want to go to the bridge. Whether Srune and Roah go or not, he's got to be curious about this other mage - and about the ancient magic of the bridge itself. It seems the obvious place to go to answer all his questions so far (at least, to his knowledge). They should take with them the books about Alchien that they've collected so far. He sounds powerful and there's bound to be texts of forgotten knowledge in there. Also everything about the bridge that they can find. And that's enough for now. Phew!

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 10:38 am Post subject:

Runs off with Fauna. _________________ Good night and good hunting! And the story goes The Orc and The Not so Fat Fat Fairy The Orc says.... The Twisty Stoat says....

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 10:46 am Post subject:

Very interesting. Does this mean the General trusts the Circle? I think they should definately go to the bridge, especially now that they know there must be a mage there (or must have been). Srune will want to go, because this mage may be willing to join his Circle, or their little circle might meld into a bigger, unknown one. Trengin should also want to go, if only for curiosity's sake. I posted a few technicalities here. Just some typos. ~sunny

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 10:48 am Post subject:

Ugh. It took me so long to do those links, two people snuck in before me. ~sunny

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 10:52 am Post subject:

Thanks Sunny - great work, appreciated. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 11:00 am Post subject:

Trengin will want to go to the bridge, whether the other two go or not. In fact, it might be prudent for him to take what info he has on the bridge and head off that way, while the others stay with the caravan for a bit longer. More time to inventory and study, and protect the caravan until it is closer to its destination. Doubtful the Sempa have spies already, since it seems that they haven't really regarded the soldiers as a true threat. However, dissention should be brought to the attention of the leaders, so that potential problems in that area can be addressed now. What happened to the book that the sleepy Trengin didn't read? Where has it gone, as he sat it aside but hasn't mentioned it since? The War Room :biggrin: _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 11:19 am Post subject:

I don't know about going to the bridge. Given how much valuable stuff there is in this caravan, and the fact that we know the Sempa know about it and want it, I think the highest priority is to get the caravan to Etonreh, and then hide its contents. On the other hand, the General has asked us to go, and given that his people own the caravan, it's kind of hard for use to refuse. So I agree with Fauna that we should split up - let Trengin go to the bridge, while Roah and Srune keep the caravan safe. I also agree that we should tell the Captain about the trouble-making lieutenant. The captain seems like a sharp guy - I think we can trust him to take whatever action is appropriate.

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 12:24 pm Post subject:

A well-written chapter, Smee. And like Shady said, very informative. Key makes a good point that the caravan is a high-priority due to the wealth of information it contains. Any more information the Circle can find about the bridge would be most helpful. So I agree with Fauna's idea of having Trengin detouring to the bridge, while Scrune and Roah stay with the caravan as researchers and guards. And along with everyone else, it would be best that the Captain be alert to any troublemakers among his troops. This is perilous time, so the group must be on their feet for any shady dealings going on behind their backs. Any books or scrolls about the shield, and perhaps those about the rune magic of Alchien I think would be some good sources to start with. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 4:15 pm Post subject:

I'd say to stay with the caravan, and I was wondering. Is there some spell that would allow them to simply copy out information, so that they could take it with them anyways? I mean, really quickly, not having to write it out themselves. Or just absorb the information directly from the books - something like that. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Wed Mar 15, 2006 10:21 pm Post subject:

Interesting thoughts Lordy. For the second - no. The books don't contain knowledge, just words. It's the readers interpretation of the words that imparts the knowledge. A spell can't take that from a book and put it in someone's head. As for the copying idea. It's certainly nothing that anyone has tried before, but with a few months investigation and practice then it might be possible in some form. It'd certainly guarantee an income after the war if they could learn something like that, Libraries everywhere would want their services. For now though I don't think it matters, if you go to the bridge you have permission to take with you whatever you want. Thanks for the comments guys _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 4:20 am Post subject:

I was going to say it, but Key beat me too it. The items are far too valuable to risk. Stay with them and then go to the bridge late. The fact that they can't contact the bridge probably* means it is already too late. *Certainly, as we know. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 4:33 am Post subject:

Thanks Chinaren. Just a quick thought to interject. If the General suspected the worst, - i.e. the bridge has already been attacked - then his urgency is likely to be even greater that it is now. He would immediately assume the Sempa will be soon reinforcing it, and the idea of entrenched Sempa behind the shield would be scary. In that situation he'd assume Hunt and the mage that was with him are dead and therefore all their knowledge on how the bridge-shield works lost with them. However, as has already been noted, the caravan could be of infinate use given enough time to study the contents. A tough call - although splitting Trengin from the circle seems a reasonable plan, but it'd leave Trengin on his own. I'm glad I'm not voting. Happy discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 10:22 am Post subject:

Are we to have a poll up soon? I am beginning to think most people are leaning toward the idea of splitting the Circle. At least that is what I am interpretating from the posts above. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 10:53 am Post subject:

I only posted the chapter yesterday - patience Others may yet persuade people to another alternative. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 10:57 am Post subject:

Yes, yes. Patience is a virtue, but not for everyone. Including me.. Ah well, I have to wait. If there is to be an alternative suggestion, do tell me. wanders off to wallow in plot bunnies _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 11:07 am Post subject:

One further thought on this chapter. If there are suspicions that the bridge has been taken by the Sempa - and it's bound to be considered as at least a possibility - is it safe to send any of the books over there with our Mages? They've spent all this effort protecting the caravan - it would be a bit stupid to walk straight into enemy hands, carrying everything that they'd need to learn about controlling the bridge. And I still don't think the team should split up. The books are extremely important, but so is the goodwill of the armies on whose side they are fighting. We've already seen how deep the suspicion of Mages runs. If the General has asked for a favour, then it's an extension of his trust in us. It should be nurtured, not thrown back at him because of the Circle's own interest in the magical tomes and scrolls... ...if you ask me... (which nobody did)

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Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 11:22 am Post subject:

Shady Stoat wrote:

O
If there are suspicions that the bridge has been taken by the Sempa - and it's bound to be considered as at least a possibility - is it safe to send any of the books over there with our Mages?

But wouldn't it be better to get a confirmation instead of just believing a rumor?

I think we have the choice to either take a dare, or play it safe.
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Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 11:26 am Post subject:

I was wondering whether it would be possible to place some sort of stealth effect on the books, to make it impossible for them to fall into enemy hands? Given what I know of the magic system here, I suspect not. Still, although I'd like the Circle (or at least Trengin) to go the bridge, I don't think they should go all the way there with the books. Possibly hide or bury them within half a day's trek of the bridge? We need the knowledge, but at the same time we need the Sempa not to get hold of the same knowledge. THat's all I'm saying.

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Posted: Thu Mar 16, 2006 3:57 pm Post subject:

Another good though, Shady. How do you come up with these ideas? I am all for protecting books. Is there some way we can memorize what we can and then hide them like Shady here is suggesting? I think earlier someone suggested making duplicates, but that wasn't possible I think. Nonetheless, I think someone should go to that bridge. The rumor needs to be confirmed. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Fri Mar 17, 2006 3:03 am Post subject:

There's no reason not to split up at this point. The situation is the same as before- Sempa attacts and distrust of mages- but that's the way things were before the Circle and everyone got about without being in a little group then. Trengin as yet hasn't 'joined' the circle officially. And I found it odd that the military leaders would want to send away their best protection for the caravan before it safely reached its destination anyway. There are rumors and suspicions that the bridge would come under attack, but the caravan is a confirmed target. Prudence dictates that two stay with the caravan. Their services are voluntary, and the request to go to the bridge not compulsory. Splitting up honors both options- protecting the caravan and checking out the bridge. Preventing the knowledge from falling into the hands of the Sempa is vital, and I agree that taking such information alone and all the way to the bridge is not wise, especially since there has been no word from Hunt. Stashing the info in a safe place before reaching the bridge sounds like a smart idea. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Mar 17, 2006 12:31 pm Post subject:

F5 Fauna. Remember that the only reason the bridge has any strategic value at all is because of something you found in the caravan. Keeping safe the caravan's trove of secrets is top priority.

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Posted: Fri Mar 17, 2006 3:57 pm Post subject:

wonders what planets have aligned in order for her and Key to agree so much on TTB _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Sat Mar 18, 2006 8:43 am Post subject:

OK Poll is up. Thanks for your comments. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Mar 18, 2006 11:58 am Post subject:

Voted, and winning. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Tue Mar 21, 2006 9:53 am Post subject:

Fauna has persuaded me with her thought out post at the top of the page. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Mar 30, 2006 3:55 am Post subject:

Ok - Poll is closed. Thanks everyone for your votes. Trengin will suggest he heads to the bridge alone whilst the other two continue on to Etonreh. ------------------ I'm sorry for the delay in Norral's latest chapter. It seems an age ago that you began the walk into the Elders enclave to report back. It's proving to be a tricky, and important, chapter to write and I'm only a few hundred words into it. Some discussions in Battle to the End at the moment could also have some impact on it, so I'm also awaiting the results of that. It will be out as soon as I can. Happy Awaiting _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Mar 30, 2006 10:03 am Post subject:

You're writing a difficult storyline, Smee. Just keep the good writing coming. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Mar 30, 2006 10:13 am Post subject:

Ok, that's what I call bad timing! I finished reading this first thing this morning, but didn't have time to reply, and in the meantime, Smee's gone and declared the poll over. Rats.... Darn...... Poot. grin Well, I didn't have anything to say that hadn't been said already, and I agree that splitting is probably wisest, and NOT taking any books too close to the bridge is also a safe course. Just make sure that someone reminds him that the mission was recon - not to try to take the bridge back again. So the only thing left for me to say is... Happy writing.

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Posted: Thu Mar 30, 2006 11:01 am Post subject:

Lol - thanks Stubby. And it's great to have you catch up The poll's still there, so you can vote if you want - I won't be writing that chapter until after the next Norral one Happy Reading _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Mar 30, 2006 9:08 pm Post subject:

Looking forward to that next chapter for Norral. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Fri Mar 31, 2006 8:34 am Post subject:

What we know? The bridge has been taken, the keep has been captured, the shield is still functional, and a mage has been taken captive. What they know? Nobody's heard from the keep for days, there's supposedly a very powerful magical shield, and that Hunt had a mage that activated it. I bet that they suspect that the keep is safe. There's a mage and a shield. If that mage is anything like Srune or Trengin, it's safe. Of course, they probably can guess that the Sempa know about Hunt's mage, and have spies and stingers.

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Posted: Thu Apr 06, 2006 11:19 am Post subject:

Hey Everybody Chapter 14a has just been posted here. Happy discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Apr 06, 2006 11:43 am Post subject:

Wow! Good, complex chapter there So there is a reason for this war after all. I wonder why the Sempa have refused to negotiate thus far then? It seems that all they want is an end to the oppression - or at least that's how it began. I suppose they feel that they can now take by force what was denied them for so long. Maybe they'll feel more like negotiating if the tides of the war start to turn against them, or if it becomes a prolonged stalemate. I'm interested in this library too - wondering if it's the archaeological dig that the good side have got hold of relics and scrolls from? After all, it was the only known record of Alchien's works, and now Trengin and co. have a copy of a book by Alchien. Perhaps it's all beginning to come together. officially intrigued now Last edited by Shady Stoat on Thu Apr 06, 2006 11:46 am; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Thu Apr 06, 2006 11:43 am Post subject:

Great (half) chapter. Can't wait for the rest, but don't worry, I won't be holding my breath (we have Soloman for that!) Some fascinating history, and another spirit traveller( s ). Hmmm interesting. I wonder if the good guys know about that library (or is that the ruins that they're excavating?) I'd be careful with the spying magic if I were Norral - getting caught at that would mean a very quick trip for re-education, and a probably a temporary suspension of breathing rights. Then again, the more he knows about his leaders, the more informed and 'useful' he can appear to them! Fine line.... walk it carefully Happy Writing

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Posted: Thu Apr 06, 2006 11:48 am Post subject:

Hmm, a very interesting insight into the Leader's past. It certainly tells a lot about him, and the Sempa themselves. But like Stubby here said, Norral best be careful about eavesdropping. He is still a subordinate, and a new Eraser squadleader also. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Apr 06, 2006 12:33 pm Post subject:

I concur, avoid eavesdropping to the most part. It is likely they wouldn't appreaciate anyone knowning just what they were up to. And as much more powerful mages, they'd probably be able to work out what he is doing if he tries. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Thu Apr 06, 2006 3:05 pm Post subject:

Interesting developments. Norral has won even more favor, and likely his spying was obvious but allowed. I look forward to the conclusion of this chapter. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Thu Apr 06, 2006 5:43 pm Post subject:

Indeed, a nice bit of history there, very informative, even if it was reluctant. I also await part 2. Bides _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Fri Apr 07, 2006 5:20 am Post subject:

grabs the ever-familiar stool out of its usual hiding place I too await part 2. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Fri Apr 07, 2006 6:04 am Post subject:

Well I just caught up with Trengin. And what can I say...its just brilliant. Ill give my eyes some rest, and do Norral tomorrow.

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Posted: Fri Apr 07, 2006 7:49 am Post subject:

Had to give Bob a poke here. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Fri Apr 07, 2006 8:08 am Post subject:

So did I seeing your post _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Apr 07, 2006 3:58 pm Post subject:

_________________ Good night and good hunting! And the story goes The Orc and The Not so Fat Fat Fairy The Orc says.... The Twisty Stoat says....

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Posted: Fri Apr 07, 2006 5:06 pm Post subject:

LOL. Well if I keep poking Bob here, I help keep this thread alive until you post the second part. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Tue Apr 11, 2006 3:30 pm Post subject:

Hmm...interesting to see Norral so eager to get the mage back quickly. He says he wants revenge, but do we know for sure...? Well, he is most likely inherently evil, so...

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Posted: Tue Apr 11, 2006 9:17 pm Post subject:

I would guess he wants to experiment more with the power draining spell he's discovered. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Apr 12, 2006 3:55 am Post subject:

That and maybe also to give payment for the death of comrades. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Wed Apr 12, 2006 11:16 am Post subject:

Yes! I have caught up! And it's marvellous! A wonderful world with a very well thought out magical system that adds masses of realism to it, which is very admirable. Well done Smee! *pats back* :biggrin:

And onto my first descision point here! I think that saving face with the soldiers is vastly the most important thing to do at the moment. Srune set up the circle so that they could show the soldiers that the mages were getting more serious about helping them against the Sempa, and saying that they should stay with the books may make them seem not to care about the men at the bridge, and possibly more concerned with the knowledge stored within the caravans.

One thing I noticed which confuzzled me a little was:

Quote:

A book written by a scholar who actually knew Alchien

Does this mean that Alchien is still alive, or at least his death has not been confirmed? Or has the tense been mixed a little? Very Happy

This should be avoided, so going to the bridge should be attempted. Before they go they should try and find as many useful texts that could help them with the bridge, and anything that is supremely valuable, so that if the Sempa did attack again and the caravans had to be destroyed, then at least some knowledge would be retained. I'm sure much of the information stored there would be useful and interesting for a mage to read, but only things which are immediately useful rather than history books, should be brought with them. The circle should head to the bridge, for it seems that on thier own thier capavilities would be greatly diminished, so if there was any danger at the bridge then they could combat it effectively.

As for telling the captain about the rumour spreading characters in the army, I think that they should. Though the captain may interpret it as mage paranoia and a disregard for his men, if Trengin can convince him that what he saw was really important, and identify the culprit, then I think he would take his concerns into consideration.

Really looking forward to the next installment now! :biggrin:

*holds breath* Shocked

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Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here
The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9
Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3
The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3
One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3
Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Wed Apr 12, 2006 11:29 am Post subject:

Hey Soily,

Fantastic that you've caught up - great to have you here. And a good comment too. Smile

Quote:

Early afternoon on the first day of travel saw my own discovery of note. A book written by a scholar who actually knew Alchien.

Hmmm, it's well documented with this story that I have a problem with tenses, but I'm not seeing it with this one. Confused

Ah - I get it (delete's all his waffle trying to work it out) - you mean it implies the author is still alive?

If I make it ... "A book written by a scholar of those times, who ...."

Thanks again, and ...

Happy Playing. Smile

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Posted: Wed Apr 12, 2006 11:31 am Post subject:

Heh, yeah, sorry about that Smee, it does seem a bit of a lame point to bring up, but I just wanted to clarify that 'Alcien's' age wasn't a couple of years ago, though their wonderment at fiding books from that time should have dispelled my fears over that. Ah well... _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Wed Apr 12, 2006 12:53 pm Post subject:

Not a problem - glad you did. Things like that can easily slip in and clarification is always good. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Apr 12, 2006 4:03 pm Post subject:

Spoily, stop distracting Smee from writing the next half of his chapter. I am still binding here. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Wed Apr 12, 2006 7:17 pm Post subject:

LOL. China, you getting that impatient? _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius Last edited by Ravenwing on Wed Apr 12, 2006 9:07 pm; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Wed Apr 12, 2006 8:19 pm Post subject:

Biding takes a lot of energy you know. At least if you do it properly. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Wed Apr 12, 2006 9:08 pm Post subject:

Bidding or binding? I would think both would take a lot of effort. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Wed Apr 12, 2006 9:44 pm Post subject:

I think there are other things distracting me than a new reader. cough Mayoral Essays cough If anything Soily has reminded me I need to get Norral finished so I can get Trengin moving again. Happy Biding.* *But feel free to bid too - they won't happen but you're welcome to give me the fables. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Apr 13, 2006 3:46 am Post subject:

Good luck Smee, writing. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Apr 13, 2006 4:03 am Post subject:

Well, if the essays are getting you down Smee, then you could always withdraw... _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Fri Apr 14, 2006 4:33 pm Post subject:

I suggest fighting 'till the bloody end. Never say die. Push it to the max and so forthe(sp?) ^simpsons quote^

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Posted: Fri Apr 14, 2006 8:14 pm Post subject:

Smee, I don't think you need any more fables. You have plenty enough. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sun Apr 16, 2006 11:47 pm Post subject:

I caught up with Norral too.

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Posted: Sun Apr 16, 2006 11:55 pm Post subject:

...and I thwacked Bob. Everybody* wins! *except Bob. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sun Apr 16, 2006 11:59 pm Post subject:

me too again _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2006 4:25 am Post subject:

Like the signs in your sig, china. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2006 6:44 pm Post subject:

Smee, how's the writing going? :twisted: Any places to stop and have a nice "picnic" in the next chapter? _________________ Good night and good hunting! And the story goes The Orc and The Not so Fat Fat Fairy The Orc says.... The Twisty Stoat says....

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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2006 9:11 pm Post subject:

LOL. I was going to ask that myself. Maybe he is preparing for the party since it seems like he is leading in the polls for Mayor. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2006 9:14 pm Post subject:

Dangles feet in the crystal clear spring flowly gently through the wooded clearing and admires the perfect stillness of the perfect picnic spot. I don't think we're going to find anything better than before, unless you fancy a picnic on the Leader's lap. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2006 9:17 pm Post subject:

Not really. Much prefer the serene stillness of the quiet stream. A good place to sleep and meditate. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2006 9:40 pm Post subject:

and do battle against the Sempa _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2006 9:45 pm Post subject:

Let me meditate on a plan first before I go stand up and fight. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Mon Apr 17, 2006 11:26 pm Post subject:

Sempa, soda and sandwiches! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue Apr 18, 2006 5:41 am Post subject:

Sounds like a meal. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Tue Apr 18, 2006 7:51 am Post subject:

shows up with a basket and a checkered blanket The Leader's lap...better not go there. I'll just set up here on the floor. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2006 9:40 am Post subject:

Joins Fauna on her checkered blanket _________________ Good night and good hunting! And the story goes The Orc and The Not so Fat Fat Fairy The Orc says.... The Twisty Stoat says....

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Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2006 3:30 pm Post subject:

lordofthenight wrote:

Sounds like a meal.

It is a meal, Lordy. LOL.
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Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2006 11:37 am Post subject:

An interesting though occurred to me earlier. Now, I could be way off on this one, since I'm not totally sure what the Emfilkar are, nor how the spell works, but.... From what I can see, the Emfilkar are basically magic junkies - they are hooked on using their magic, getting a buzz out of the act of casting, and this goes on until they push too far and burn out all their skill, or until they get lost in their own heads and don't bother with minor annoyances like eating. From what I can also see, Norral's new spell alows him to draw the magical power out of a (live) victim, right up to the point where they cannot use magic any more themselves. So... what would happen if he were to use it on an Emfilkar? I get the definite impression, from the recent chapter with his eraser squad's discomfort, and the earlier passing mentions about Trengin's close approach and return, that, if you could convince (or prevent) an Emfilkar not to use magic - for however brief a time - that it may be possible to then reason with the potentially sane former mage inside, and perhaps bring them back, with their magic still intact. Just one pencil's musings and random scribblings.

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Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2006 3:19 pm Post subject:

Hmm. Interesting an interesting thought Stubby. I would like to see what the answer to that idea would be. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2006 9:35 pm Post subject:

Very interesting Stubby We know that by the time we get to BttE times that Emflikar can be sorted and become Jomakar as Yahoo is, although of course neither Norral nor Trengin know such things. Just to clarify, Emflikar are more than hooked on using magic. They are hooked on the pleasure magics that Jakeen almost got stuck in when he was playing in the inn for the first time. Pleasure magics fill their body with such ecstasy that, as you mentioned, such minor annoyances like eating become insignificant. Becoming Emflikar can happen in two ways. By deliberately casting pleasure magics and then not stopping in time. Or by being violently stripped of power like happened to Norral's team. In the latter, they can escape their fate by tolerating the pain until some trace of their powers recharge. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sun Apr 30, 2006 6:43 am Post subject:

Hey Everybody Chapter 14b has just been posted here. Sorry for the delay everyone, but I'll make it up to you. Happy discussion and thanks for playing _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sun Apr 30, 2006 7:03 am Post subject:

Wow - lots of options there - and although it was short, there were a lot of details in there. A lot of potential background, perhaps. Norral is ambitious. I don't think he's going to want to be a mere footsoldier forever. It's even possible that he's going to want to take command of this game at some point. He'll toe the line for now, but I see him choosing the mission that gives him the most chance of personal gain. Revenge would be a pleasure - but what would he get out of it personally, after the screams had faded? Tracking down new Mages would perhaps be a temptation - but at the end of the day, they get taken off for re-training and re-assignment. He gets nothing. Finding treasures, however, might provide him with more of the power he craves. If anything is powerful enough to be worth the risk, he might hold it back from the Leader - or even use it to challenge his way to a more worthy place in the hierarchy. I'd say go for the artefacts.

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Posted: Sun Apr 30, 2006 8:45 am Post subject:

F5 Stoat what else is there to say on the subject?

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Posted: Sun Apr 30, 2006 10:43 am Post subject:

I don't know - I think he might try to go for the mages himself. Defeating the mages who caused his old master so much trouble could really prove himself in the eyes of the Leader, and cement his reputation. I also suspect it would appeal to his nature, and the need for revenge that I suspect would still be burning. That's the thing about vengance - no matter what you do you never feel to have done enough - you always want more. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Sun Apr 30, 2006 11:45 am Post subject:

Short but sweet Mr. Smee! Good chapter. I agree with Stoat mostly; I think that if we are going to play it how Norral would, then he would either go after the mages or find the artifacts (though I personally would like to see him go after the potential recruits and emflikars. I see a tie in to Stoat's story ), as I think he would see the most gain from those, either physically or helping out with his rise through the Sempa ranks. I think he would probably go for the revenge attack however. I think that opting to go after the mages will endear him to the council, as they will see ambition and courage. They may want the artifacts, but they may also detect too much personal agenda in that option. Best to stay on thier good side. If they have one... holds breath _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Sun Apr 30, 2006 12:48 pm Post subject:

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Mosuren was a sour-faced man with a perpetual sneer, but despite appearances often spoke as if he were relaxing on a picnic in some woodland clearing...

Sweet description of such a harsh man.

Of course all three options are appealing; however, I believe our ambitious Norral will accept two of them with his own conditions. He'll want retribution for his old squad leader, and that seems a ready assignment to take. Yet he also is drawn to his power experiments, the Emflikar and the trust of recruiting for the cause. He'll ask to combine the two in some fashion, and continue the recruiting once he tracks down the mages.

This way he gets inside knowledge from the leaders on both assignments, has a hand in stirring more than one stew, and furthers his own ambitions.
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Posted: Mon May 01, 2006 8:20 am Post subject:

Shady said it. I can't really think of much else when I have so little time on this site. I will probably come back with a better post once later today hopefully. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Tue May 02, 2006 6:29 pm Post subject:

I agree with Shady. Nothing will endear the leader more than to go find his artifacts. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Tue May 02, 2006 8:10 pm Post subject:

Yes, so many memories hidden in such material objects. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Tue May 02, 2006 9:49 pm Post subject:

Nice little chappy Smee. I would say go for the relics left behind by the Leader. Maybe something there could be of use to him, and who knows? He may find more interesting information which could help understand more and enhance his power. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Tue May 02, 2006 10:16 pm Post subject:

Go find a new chosen. That's always funny. Good chapter Smee

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Posted: Thu May 04, 2006 4:49 pm Post subject:

The bad thing about finding chosen and killing mages is that its not as important because, well, they've been done before. Its one of things that you say "Oh, he did? Whatever, its not like he's special." The relics is like "For the leader himself? Wow." _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Thu May 04, 2006 6:30 pm Post subject:

Hmm...fetching artifacts or fighting mages may be more glorious, but let's face it - any artifact we fetch is going to become property of the Leader, and killing mages is not going to bring us any power either. With all the uncertainty that this new threat brings, maybe it's time we started building our own power base. Just think about it - lots of impressionable young mages ready to molded into a fighting force. They're always going to remember their first commander. And maybe someday, we'll want to call on them... :twisted:

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Posted: Thu May 04, 2006 7:25 pm Post subject:

indeed, I am with Key on this one. And what could help that power base but some nice juicy artifacts, one or two of which may go 'missing' in transit. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Fri May 05, 2006 5:39 am Post subject:

Key said what I was thinking. Certainly killing mages would be a good idea, but first strengthen the central location. And then take action. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Fri May 05, 2006 4:30 pm Post subject:

Yes, I see your point, Key, although the artifacts can bring more power than two or three inexperienced youths will. Let's face it, I don't think we're going to recruit much more than that. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Fri May 05, 2006 6:52 pm Post subject:

Yeah, I actually think we should go after the artifacts too. I just didn't want to agree with everybody.

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Posted: Sat May 06, 2006 9:00 am Post subject:

Looks like people are coming to an agreement - the poll's going up. Thanks for the comments folks Next chapter for Trengin - deciding who goes to the bridge - coming very soon. Happy Playing _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat May 06, 2006 9:21 am Post subject:

Smee, what's this author's opinion? What's the use? _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Sat May 06, 2006 9:23 am Post subject:

Lordy's idea - allows me to vote and see the result straight away. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat May 06, 2006 9:24 am Post subject:

Voted! Let's try and combine missions. Get more glory that way. holds breath _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Sat May 06, 2006 9:25 am Post subject:

Hmmm, I see. But you don't get to vote in case of a tie. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Sat May 06, 2006 9:28 am Post subject:

Went for recruitment. If we ever want to become head of the Sempa we'll need a couple of powerful apprentices loyal to us.

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Posted: Sat May 06, 2006 9:51 am Post subject:

Mine was the 'current' solo vote for revenge, which would prove something straight away, as opposed to possible luck in recruitment or finding lost artifacts. And D. - he doesn't need to cast his vote in case of a tie - he can just declare which wins, without using the poll. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 4:01 am Post subject:

Hit two birds with one stone. Voted for the hybrid option. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 4:09 am Post subject:

Keep the votes coming in, but because I said I'd make it up to you for the recent inactivity... Chapter 15 has just been posted here. As always, along with the decision point, always feel free to mention any other thoughts you have about the Story. Happy Discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 4:17 am Post subject:

Quote:

It also be nice to

Slight typo.

Nice to see another chapter! Interesting facts dribbling out.

I think he should scout around a little first, check out the terrain. Maybe he can use a disguise again. If it seems safe, have a rest. If not, well, he can surely find a place to camp.

This wagon of books is indeed a treasure trove, I look forward to hearing more...
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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 4:54 am Post subject:

Good chapter. Things are moving along nicely. Very Happy

Noticed a couple of things:

Quote:

With some final thoughts and planning we continued reading through books until dawn, desperate to find anything that might [
be of use to me.

There is a [ and a large gap after it, which I dont think needs to be there, despite the proximity of the picture.

Quote:

the riders would beable to see me clearly

Should be would be able to.

I think that he should remain wary and vigilant of the possible dangers around. Those riders, the fact that it isn't marked on the relatively young map, the fact that it should have been destroyed by Sempa. None of these bode well. I think he should camp outside, somewhere that is secluded and hidden but where he can still view the village. Maybe it's an illusion, or only appears at certain times during the day. You never know.... Wink

Looking forward to the next installment! :biggrin:

*holds breath* Shocked

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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 5:07 am Post subject:

Excellent chapter. I loved the background info. There's a lot more of that leaking into the story now Okay: Benefits of going into the village. 1) A soft bed. 2) possible info on the bridge. Drawbacks: 1) Possibly an occupied town, even if it doesn't look like it. 2) People talk and rumours travel. Trengin couldn't stay secret for long if he stayed in the village. He could perhaps illusion himself into being something more harmless, as he did on the road. Still, it probably wouldn't fool anyone with a magical background and it would do more harm than good if the illusion was seen through. As for possibly gaining information, he can probably find out everything he needs to know, simply by going to the bridge and scouting it out secretly. It should be fairly obvious what has happened, simply by looking - and how could he trust what the villagers told him anyway? He'd still have to go and confirm it for himself in the end. So, for the sake of a warm, comfortable bed - I'd say, skirt around and forget the village completely.

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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 6:28 am Post subject:

Surely te sempa wouldn't just overlook a village? I think whatever he does, he should be very wary in the village. Maybe some spell can alert him to any magic being used in the village?

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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 7:10 am Post subject:

Certainly an informative chapter. Dishes out a lot of information.

Like others have said, the perfect quietude of the village is too suspious. Perhaps, Trengin could set a spell that can alert him to any trouble. Sort of like a wire trap.

Also the village may be dangerous, but he may be able to glean some information. He is going to just have to be careful what he says, so he doesn't bring attention to himself too much.

Quote:

apart

Need a space after the 'a' otherwise you have the opposite connotation you desire within the sentence.

And I think I saw Scrune's name spelled Shrune somewhere in the earlier part of the chapter.
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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 7:20 am Post subject:

Thanks everyone, and it's Srune - so there is two wrong if you were comparing EDIT: Found it - there was a stray Shrune in there It's been suitably de'h'ched and won't be bothering anyone again. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd! Last edited by Smee on Sun May 07, 2006 7:24 am; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 7:23 am Post subject:

I knew I spelled the guy's name wrong...I guess that cancels out then. I found one error, and you corrected mine. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 9:33 am Post subject:

I'd suggest using the disguise of the old man and going down into the village. It may be risky, but so could staying the night out as the riders warned. Also, if he doesn't seek the apparent safety of the village then if someone did see him they would have reason to be suspicious of him, while seeing an old man come to town shouldn't cause to many eyebrow to raise. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Sun May 07, 2006 9:42 pm Post subject:

Last day for votes in Norral's chapter. Currently opinion is toward a hybrid option but the votes are close and that could easily change. Happy Voting _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon May 08, 2006 4:22 am Post subject:

Dammit Smee, I wish you wouldn't do that! You keep making me forget that this is a storygame and that I am supposed to think up some constructive and insightful comment at the end of the chapter! grumbles and re-reads it OK, right..... that village is baaad news. There is little you could stand to gain that could offset the risk of going there. Find a quiet spot off the road in the woods and sleep there instead. Mark it well on the map, so that the circle ( or line, or triangle or whatever shape it happens to be at the time) can send someone to investigate - after all, they may have some useful defence against the Sempa. Happy Mayoring

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Posted: Mon May 08, 2006 4:34 am Post subject:

Do what - you mean the seperate discussion thread? _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon May 08, 2006 4:37 am Post subject:

Actually, I think he means that the writing just sucks him in, and he forgets that after reading the chapter he's supposed to tell you what to write next _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon May 08, 2006 4:38 am Post subject:

Awww - well that's ok then. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Mon May 08, 2006 4:50 am Post subject:

grin OK, so maybe it was a bit too subtle a compliment - but Fauna got it spot on! Sorry if I worried, you Smee, but there is nothing wrong with the story - so much so that I just get completely engrossed in reading it! Keep up the good work!

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Posted: Mon May 08, 2006 5:50 am Post subject:

Considering the times and the general climate I’d avoid the village. Even if the people were friendly amongst themselves, they likely would be suspicious of a stranger, especially if you’re easily identifiable as a mage. Resist that soft bed, those promised comforts that a glimpse into the peaceful village offers. In fact, it might prove wise to move far away from the village before resting. Travel off the main roads as night approaches and put some distance between you and what appears too good to be true. The whole scene smacks of entrapment. And with that in mind, you should mark the space on your map, and once you’ve scouted the bridge and made contact with your companions in Etonreh, investigate this village further. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon May 08, 2006 4:56 pm Post subject:

Trengin isn't part of the Sempa, the Army, or even the Circle. The village may not be on the map because the people there don't want to be seen, but Trengin is welcome there so he sees the village and has the welcome thoughts of the warm bed, and hot meal. A safe haven for the likes of him. crescent moon hand wave You want to go into the village. _________________ Good night and good hunting! And the story goes The Orc and The Not so Fat Fat Fairy The Orc says.... The Twisty Stoat says....

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Posted: Mon May 08, 2006 8:24 pm Post subject:

Yes Master Kenobi.

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Posted: Tue May 09, 2006 2:09 am Post subject:

Thanks for the votes everyone - the poll for Norral: Chapter 14 is now Closed. With half the votes, Norral will be trying to get a hybrid mission. If, for some reason the Elders don't allow it then I'll follow the second option and go for the Artefacts. Whatever they choose, it looks like a visit to the Capital is on the cards for Norral Look for the chapter - hopefully - this weekend As for Trengin - a poll will be going up in a couple of days - any other thoughts, ideas, things to do? i.e. Should he be travelling a little slower so he can read the book he's got whilst riding? Or maybe just flick through it each night before sleep? As for the village - does anyone think it might be worth checking out with his spirit travel or are you scared of that at the moment? Just some other thoughts to consider... Have fun _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue May 09, 2006 3:51 am Post subject:

I think that he needs to get to the bridge soon, so he should only read the book before he sleeps, when he wouldnt be travelling anyway. As for using spirit travel, I think that it's a good idea, but I think Trengin will recognise that the bridge mission is of the utmost importance, so would not waste time on a venture that may well prove fruitless. Looking forward to the next chapter Smee! :biggrin: holds breath _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Tue May 09, 2006 3:58 am Post subject:

He's encountered a few snags on his recent spirit travels...that's why I suggested he mark the village on his map, establish contact with his companions in Etonreh, and then go about exploring the village. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Tue May 09, 2006 4:42 am Post subject:

Spirit travel here doesn't sound safe to me. If the village does have any form of magical protection, then there is a very real chance that he will be detected, and his attempt will probably be viewed as a hostile act. Also, as Fauna pointed out, there is always the chance that he'll end up blacking out / getting lost, and without his friends around to assist, that could easily be fatal. As for the book - if he gets there to find all is well, then he doesn't need to have studied it much, whereas if all is not well, then he can always study the book in more detail there and then before acting. I would suggest that he reads avidly in his spare time, while cooking, eating, resting etc. but I think that while he is travelling, he should keep his attention on the road. He has already hit one situation where he would have had problems if he'd had his nose in the book, there are likely to be more in such a dangerous area.

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Posted: Wed May 10, 2006 12:47 pm Post subject:

Like Solie has stated, getting to the bridge is the destination of utmost importance. The last time he tried the spirit travel, he exhausted himself. And the last time he did this, he had his friends nearby. He hasn't mastered the technique, so I wouldn't recommend using it. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 8:26 am Post subject:

New POLL up What does Trengin do... It's a 3 day poll so get your votes in quick. And coming up in a few minutes time... Chapter 16 _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 11:46 am Post subject:

Excellent chapter. He has earned favor, manipulated his next assignment to suit his needs a bit, and received a pointed reminder of his station in life. Good job so far. He has a few plans to make in order to get started. He needs two companions that he can rely on, and who will compliment his own knowledge and skills. They should make up for where he is lacking when it comes to map reading, woodsman-ship, social interaction, recruitment, etc. Bruos is incarcerated after the caravan fiasco, but he would have been a great choice as far as his skills- leadership qualities, coupled with loyalty, magic that is effective and won't attract undue attention (as in, not fire magic). But he's out. Margn seems the best scout and woodsman, and likely invaluable when traveling through territories that aren't controlled by the Sempa. And if he can make a map I'm sure he can read one without any issue. Someone young and fresh might attract new recruits, and Harop sprang to mind, but he was left at the bridge with Kewor. Stuni didn't strike me as necessarily young, but he is deliberately plain-spoken, disarming and cunning. Perfect for assisting with contacting new recruits, and for any social interactions that might prove necessary along the way. I think that Margn and Stuni would be great choices to accompany him as he journeys to Sosulv. He also needs to consider supplies. He must travel lightly, and additionally must be capable of returning with the artifacts. For sake of time, he should acquire any necessary conveyance at the capitol or nearby, especially if a cart or extra pack animals prove necessary. _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 1:55 pm Post subject:

Well, I voted to check out the village in disguise. I was wondering if you'd feel up to posting a brief overview of each character here for us to see, to save us peering through past chapters to get descriptions of abilities and the such. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 3:16 pm Post subject:

I shall endevour to produce such a list Lordy. In the meantime - feel free to suggest people left behind at the bridge. Almost immediately a squad would have been dispatched to hold it and Kewor and the rest will be back in a day or two. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 11:47 pm Post subject:

Good chapter again. They weren't too happy about that hybrid choice, were they? 2 other Mages? I'm inclined to suggest your loyal second-in-command as well, once he returns from the bridge. He's solid, he's been there since the start, and he deserve a chance to ride your ambitious coat-tails to whatever fate lies in store As for the other, how about an Earth or Wind-rune specialist? If you're travelling through a huge forest, you want powerful magic, but water might be scarce and you don't want to start hurling fireballs in dense woodland. Unless we can find someone who can cloak an illusion over themselves, as Trengin did? Or a scouter of some sort, to enable us to avoid the patrols?

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Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 12:51 am Post subject:

Haven't had chance to read the latest yet, I will be on it as soon as I get home and settle down. Meanwhile, voted to check out the village in disguise. He may find some useful intel, and if not then he can have a pleasant rest. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 5:26 am Post subject:

Shady Stoat wrote:

Or a scouter of some sort, to enable us to avoid the patrols?

That would be Margn, accomplished scout and woodsman. And if we hang around long enough for the rest of the squad to return from the bridge, then I agree Kewor would be a good choice.

Confused

Although now I'm undecided between Kewor and Harop. I suppose Kewor's experience and companionship would be more favorable in the long term.
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Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 5:41 am Post subject:

Great Map Smee!! Did you do that one? I am with Stoat on the first choice of partner. For the other, some sort of Druid may be a good choice, or one that specialises in woodland stuff. Animals and whatnot, as well as perhaps being able to use stealth. (Thinking about getting past patrols here). Nice bit with the Leader. Shows him that he cannot let his guard down! _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 6:09 am Post subject:

Thanks - Yes I made the map _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 8:18 pm Post subject:

Voted for the disguise idea for Trengin.

Now for my comments on the new chapter. I couldn't help noticing a few spelling errors. Wink

Quote:

ex-libarian

preditors

But I agree with Shady. I think Norral's second-in-command would be a good choice. I think that would be Kewor? I am getting them all mixed up. Like what everyone has said, a earth, wind, or water mage may help in the journey. We just need to avoid making a forest fire.
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Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 9:36 pm Post subject:

A quick note : Pretty much any mage* can make fire in a number of forms, from lighting lamps and candles to fireballs. The fire specialist just has more control, perhaps more range, and variety. The only real likelyhood of causing a forest fire is by deliberate casting. It's not going to just spill out of a mage because he's a fire specialist. An exception might be some who specialises excessively with water magics perhaps, but even then could probably still light a campfire if they knew the rune. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 9:39 pm Post subject:

Well then Norral have to make sure that whomever he chooses knows how to light a fire properly. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 2:57 am Post subject:

As requested, here is a list of the Chosen. The Elders named so far: The Leader- complex, highly talented mage disillusioned in his youth by prejudice Retonan- former Sollone librarian Mosuran- sits to right of Leader, eloquently spoken The Chosen: Norral- squadleader Darak- Norral's former squadleader, presently with the Teachers Bruos- Darak's second in command, powerful earth-based attacks, presently with the Teachers Gororo- friend of Norral, full of information when he returned from the bridge Harop- younger Chosen, used his talents to deflect, repel and disintegrate the boulders launched from the catapults at the bridge Jarvis- one of the two (the other being Margn) that tested Grenton Bridge and constructed the map of the bridge Karak- water mage killed at the bridge Kewor- Norral's second in command Margn-the closest the Chosen have to a scout, spent much of his youth in woodland, excellent with tracking and moving unseen Mavnor- delivered the maps and supplies to Norral before the Grenton Bridge assignment Mulim- maintained the shielding around the group at the bridge Teron- accomplished fire specialist Shannon- maintained the shielding around the group at the bridge Stuni- deliberately plain-spoken, talented and cunning mage _________________ The maker of a sentence launches out into the infinite and builds a road into Chaos and old Night, and is followed by those who hear him with something of wild, creative delight. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 3:12 am Post subject:

Voted for camping near the village. Now, onto the new chapter. Good stuff, and now we can get out there and do some recruitin'! I think that he should take Margn, for his woodland skills, and Stuni cos he's all cunning like. Useful for twisting those young'uns(like Cassa ) over to the dark side. holds breath _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 4:27 am Post subject:

Nice, fauna. I think Kewor and Margn should be chosen. Intelligence and ability. Norral is going to need it for this mission. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu May 18, 2006 4:17 am Post subject:

Hmmmm... a tie complicates matters. On the basis that most of the comments seemed to be more wary of the village I will write it bearing that in mind. He will attempt to enter the village in disguise, but if he see's something he doesn't like then he'll mark the place on his map and just leave. Thanks for your votes. A poll for Norral will be going up shortly - any more combinations of Chosen to take with him, then get them in quick. Happy Playing _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu May 18, 2006 8:29 pm Post subject:

i think he should choose margn for his woodland skills and mavnor because he appears to be loyal by delivering supplies before the bridge assignment

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Posted: Fri May 19, 2006 6:05 am Post subject:

Innovative use of a tie, Smee. I hope to see that chapter soon enough. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Wed May 24, 2006 4:59 am Post subject:

Polls up OK - this poll is a little trickier than usual. They'll be two polls - one for each person to go with Norral. Therefore - for this first vote, please pick the person you want to go who comes first alphabetically out of the two you want to go with him. i.e. You want him to go with Karak and Margn, then vote for Karak in this poll and be ready to vote for Margn in the second. That way people who want the same duo, won't be working against each other by voting in a different order . Thanks and Happy Voting _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed May 24, 2006 5:05 am Post subject:

Voted to bring along Kewor as his second in command, and my other vote will fall for the tracker - in case anyone is interested. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Wed May 24, 2006 5:19 am Post subject:

Voted for Kewor this time - just to remind myself. Othewise I may forget and vote for him again later. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Wed May 24, 2006 5:21 am Post subject:

I'm thinking Kewor as well. With a man of loyalty and a good woods-scout, we can probably accomplish quite a bit

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Posted: Wed May 24, 2006 6:04 am Post subject:

Went for scout-man! holds breath _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Wed May 24, 2006 8:26 am Post subject:

Went for Kewor this time around. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 1:31 am Post subject:

The poll will close itself some time today - any final votes get 'em in quick. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 4:40 am Post subject:

Ok - poll 1 has concluded, Thanks for your votes . It is Kewor who will be the first joining Norral on his journey to the capital. As soon as he gets back from the bridge Norral will hunt him out; let's hope the arrow wound through his hand doesn't impede him too much. The next poll will be up shortly - get your votes in for the second person Norral will choose. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 6:50 am Post subject:

Voted for Stuni. :biggrin: holds breath _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 12:11 pm Post subject:

Voted for the scout - and winning. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 12:32 pm Post subject:

Went for Margn. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 7:59 am Post subject:

Keep the votes coming in for Norral's squad... but Chapter 17 has just been posted here. Also - just yesterday, Chapter 2 of the new Travels Storygame was posted. Stoat has just begun weaving this new thread in, and Ehl will be merging with the main characters as reader votes takes it. Get your comments and votes in there too The first storygame with 3 decision points for everyone to vote on. Players have never had such power. Happy Discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 11:41 am Post subject:

Good new chapter, Smee. I liked the tree-magic, that was something a little bit different. My first instinct was to attack these strangers. If they're peacable and good, then they'll understand initial caution. There's a war on, you can't be too careful. Then I thought, if they're not mages, you probably don't need to bother with them one way or another. And if they are Mages, you're going to need to question them, which means them being conscious, which means an awful lot of danger. We need more non-direct means of getting the information, I think. Magical means, maybe. Is it possible to use our scouting spell without other mages becoming aware of it? Another question. Is the tree-communing magic related to his scouting abilities? I have qualms about him scouting, with the bad results he's had from it in the past. If he could follow these strangers at a distance, hoping that their path takes them through a copse or a woods, would it be possible for him to share consciousness with the trees and hear the conversation of the two men walking through their midst? I'd like to know more about them - but if necessary we must leave them alone and continue our original mission. It's better that than Trengin running into avoidable danger. Magic scouting/treehugging first, leaving the situation well alone second. That's my impression

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Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 12:23 pm Post subject:

Just to clarify, Trengin is now pretty close to the bridge (5-10 miles at most), and the strangers are heading toward it too. If he's to ignore them, he'll have to circle them somehow and get ahead of them. As for your questions, Yes, his scouting spell is completely masked. The spell is cast on himself, allowing his mind to wander, there's no trace to someone who doesn't know this very rare knowledge. And even then, only if they are actively feeling for it. As far as we know he's the only one save for the Elders who have any talent like it. Roah and Srune are certainly baffled by it. The tree communing is related, and seperate at the same time. In the battle with the caravan he cast the spell to manipulate the trees and then cast the scout to go watch and direct their actions. He can't see, or hear through the trees. His hearing is taken up by their song. If they didhappen to wander in some trees and if they are both mages, then he might be able to restrain them both with the trees. With their hands pinned their casting abilities will be limited, and Trengin would be able to handle what they could do with a shield, so long as they don't get suicidal like Norral's prisoner did. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 3:57 pm Post subject:

I think he shouyld try his scouting spell - he's never going to become more profificent unless he uses it. Get away from them first, hide, and then send out his spirit. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Fri Jun 02, 2006 1:00 am Post subject:

Quote:

peaked round

Peeked.

Nice chapter Smee.

Strange as this may sound, I don't think he should try anything. Maybe wait a while. Listen and observe, see what they are about a bit. Maybe follow them if he can, or use the spell. He isn't in such a massive hurry is he?
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Posted: Sat Jun 03, 2006 12:27 am Post subject:

Good chapter Smee. I'm wondering if he has any spell or ability that allows him to detect magic users, or perhaps areas where magic has been used recently. If he could do that, then he could attempt to find out if they are mages or not. At least then he would be know how cautious around them he has to be. Either try that or keep out of their way and observe them at a distance. I don't think it's worth risking our scounting spell when it has gone so wrong on the other occasions we have used it. Can he tell whether they are heading toward the forest? He could quickly ask the trees to be ready to grab them, like Stoat suggested. Dunno, one or a combination of these might help. holds breath _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Sat Jun 03, 2006 11:47 am Post subject:

He needs to be within a few feet to try and detect a magical ability. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Jun 03, 2006 12:17 pm Post subject:

Damn, ok then. Well, stay out of thier line of sight and see what they're doing. Does he have a spell that could augment his hearing? _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Sat Jun 03, 2006 12:24 pm Post subject:

OK - Poll is over. Thanks to everyone that voted Norral will have Margn joining him and Kewor to the Capital. The chapter will be up soon _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Jun 08, 2006 12:24 pm Post subject:

some mistakes (i don't know how to quote so i just write it) afterall should be 2 words all know magics should be all known magics _________________ When the dead walk, the living run.

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Posted: Sat Jun 10, 2006 8:00 pm Post subject:

These guys do seem suspicious. And although Trengin seems to want to prefer to stay in the shadows, I think he is going to have to take a dare and attack these guys. He has followed them this far, and thus far, he has no definite info on who these guys are. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Wed Jun 14, 2006 10:50 pm Post subject:

Ok, NEW POLL UP What does Trengin do about the two strangers ahead of him? In the meantime, now the city is perking up a little, I'm writing Norral's starting journey towards the capital. Thanks for Playing _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Jun 15, 2006 12:44 am Post subject:

What - no option to use magic in an attempt to discover their intentions? I feel disregarded. And unloved. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Thu Jun 15, 2006 1:49 am Post subject:

Just for you Lordy - it's been added in Let me know if there's issues with it. I'm not sure how Polls react to such alterations - usually not well. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd! Last edited by Smee on Thu Jun 15, 2006 1:49 am; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Thu Jun 15, 2006 1:49 am Post subject:

Voted for waiting to ambush, though I don't think he would wan't to. It's more of a precaution. They may well turn out to be Sempa, so being prepared is nothing to be ashamed of. :biggrin: holds breath _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5 Last edited by Solomon Birch on Thu Jun 15, 2006 2:24 am; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Thu Jun 15, 2006 1:51 am Post subject:

I'm not sure, but I think the poll's gone screwy. 3 voters and only 2 votes shown? Might be better to start again with it

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Posted: Thu Jun 15, 2006 1:52 am Post subject:

Woo - thankles Smee. Although your vote - which I'm assuming was on the author only section - appears to have disappeared. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Thu Jun 15, 2006 1:56 am Post subject:

Yeah - my vote has disappeared, but I can still see the final result. I think it's ok. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Jun 20, 2006 7:12 am Post subject:

Keep the votes coming in for Trengin's decision but Chapter 18 has just been posted here. Happy Discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Tue Jun 20, 2006 7:21 am Post subject:

When in doubt, keep your ass covered. Being that our hero has no idea as to who these two are, it be best for him to keep watch on them until he gets an idea of who he is dealing with.

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Posted: Tue Jun 20, 2006 10:44 am Post subject:

Good chapter. I like the green tendril and the scattered 'nightmares'. If he gets time, Norral should try to look into Setundor and the Leader's history a little. Any advantage he can gain over the leader gives him a power-edge for future confrontations. Back to the decision point though. Why take a scout, then refuse to take his advice when it comes to woodcrafts? The beasts and monsters are nothing more than superstition. Norral doesn't listen to tales from inferior non-magical people. He has faith in his own ability to cope with the dangers ahead, and the talent to plan for and react to them. In any case, better to deal with a few wild animals than to hit patrols every half-mile. Listen to your scout.

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Posted: Tue Jun 20, 2006 11:16 am Post subject:

I was swayed by the paths arguement. Taking the paths does allow them mounts, which will actually increase the speed. Patrols shouldn't cause any real difficulty to Sempa either. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Tue Jun 20, 2006 1:40 pm Post subject:

1) Thick forest, on foot, ½ the distance 2) Following paths on horse, horse move about 3x the speed of a man on foot 3) Or take the direct route. Now the question is do they don disguises, blend in with the crowd or just act normally and travel along with everyone else in plain sight wearing normal everyday clothes

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Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2006 5:02 pm Post subject:

forests definitely. if you kill animals, no one notices. if you kill an entire patrol, people will hunt you down. Also, a month is way too long. you could probably speed up your walking with magic, too, so the horse thing isn't worth it. _________________ When the dead walk, the living run.

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Posted: Mon Jun 26, 2006 5:00 pm Post subject:

Each member had a different view on how to get to the Capital, and each them had a good argument. Though I felt Kewor's idea had too many "what ifs" in them. There were so many possibilities of disruption in that plan from the farmers, to the patrols. The three want to get to the Capital as soon as possible, so that means taking the path of least resistance. I think our tracker has the best plan laid out. _________________ Stories New Story: Glassbreaker Presently on Hiatus until further notice. Truthseeker (Completed SGOTM) Samadhi Traveler 2005 Nano Wrimo winner (53,019 words) Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. -Confucius

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Posted: Mon Jun 26, 2006 11:25 pm Post subject:

Thanks for voting everyone. Trengin is going to stay back and keep following. The chapter will be out soon. In the next few minutes a new poll will appear for Norral's latest choice. What will it be? Paths, Forest, or Road? Choose wisely. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 1:48 am Post subject:

Good chapter again. I think that going along the busy road is the best plan. Not only is it faster than along the pasts and through the forest, they will have valuable cover and can then slip into the city undetected. The only risk I think that could exist is if the enemy had mages, who could detect other magic users. But they don't have any mages, accept for Trengin and his pals, and I don't think they're around to help. So unless they have some sort of enchanted gizmo, or some sort of mechanism... I don't know. Something. But I think they won't. They think of Sempa as scary bu*ers who go around blowing things up, not sneaking into the city. So I think they're chances would be good. holds breath* _________________ "Humankind cannot stand too much reality" - T.S. Elliot Thesopholis - A Noir Sci-Fi Story - Chapter 8 is up! Read it here The End of the Voyage - Chapter 9 Shady the Furry Goblin! [Demon's, Satan and Slobadan Milosevic!] - Chapter 3 The Quest for the Legendary Rubber-Duckie! - Chapter 3 One Last Bullet.... Chapter 3 Green Eyes - Chapter 5

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Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 4:00 am Post subject:

Thanks Soily We have a tie - although no great hurry as I still need to get Trengin's chapter out. The poll will stay up for now - get your votes in everyone _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 4:11 am Post subject:

Consider the tie broken Smee, as a personal favour from me to you. Went for Norral's own idea. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Thu Jul 27, 2006 1:49 am Post subject:

Ok, i'm going to go with the trackers idea, he should know what he's doing. good chapter, looking forward to next one . _________________ Ogden the Octopus has hijacked my avatar image chapter 6 of DESTINY - a super old SG which won't continue...but there are a full 6 chapters if you feel like reading something with no ending! Last edited by solus.serpen on Thu Jul 27, 2006 4:09 am; edited 1 time in total

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Posted: Thu Jul 27, 2006 2:56 am Post subject:

ok I'm definately going with the main road idea . They should easily make it to the city that way, if not slightly slowly - but probably no slower than trying to try and negotiate their way through the potentially very dangerous wood.

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Posted: Thu Jul 27, 2006 4:07 am Post subject:

Woo - two new players Thanks for the tie-breaking you two. Trengin's next chapter is progressing now - and coming on good. Once I release that chapter I'll be closing this poll for Norral. Last couple of days (at most) for any forgotten votes. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Jul 27, 2006 4:18 am Post subject:

oops, sorry smee, i just made it a tie again! _________________ Ogden the Octopus has hijacked my avatar image chapter 6 of DESTINY - a super old SG which won't continue...but there are a full 6 chapters if you feel like reading something with no ending!

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Posted: Fri Jul 28, 2006 8:57 am Post subject:

Sorry for the loooong delay, but I've made it a loooong chapter to make up for it Chapter 19 has just been posted here. Happy Discussion _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Jul 28, 2006 9:17 am Post subject:

Another excellent Chapter Smee - I'm now hooked on this series (and I'm not usually a fan of books that contain loads of magic) . I think he should go and track down where they were taking Wallis, then link back up with Roah and Srune to give them the news and draw up a plan. There are some things that are too hard for even heros to acheive and trying to take back a fully gaurded bridge as a lone mage with two humans is among them.

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Posted: Fri Jul 28, 2006 9:30 am Post subject:

Quote:

Another excellent Chapter Smee - I'm now hooked on this series

yep,

.

as for what he should do...
i think he should send soldier Jerins to Roah and Srune and tell them what has happened while he and the captain go back to near where the bridge is. Since he can communicate with the trees, he could listen in to what the sempa are planning, but try to keep out of their way. Risky, but not as much as jez's plan. (going near the sempa base..?!). Smile

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chapter 6 of DESTINY - a super old SG which won't continue...but there are a full 6 chapters if you feel like reading something with no ending!

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Posted: Fri Jul 28, 2006 9:33 am Post subject:

Just for clarification - he can't listen in to conversations by communicating with the trees. To do that, he'd need to use his scouting spell (and be within range) with the corresponding side-effects that has had recently. Although it has just worked successfully. Great (and fast ) comments guys. Thanks _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Jul 28, 2006 10:17 am Post subject:

ah, that kind of blows my plan then. I don't suggest that he uses his scouting spell since every time it has mucked up, there was a mage within range. I still think he should send soldier Jerins to Roah and Srune, not sure what after that though . _________________ Ogden the Octopus has hijacked my avatar image chapter 6 of DESTINY - a super old SG which won't continue...but there are a full 6 chapters if you feel like reading something with no ending!

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Posted: Fri Jul 28, 2006 10:21 am Post subject:

So now you decide to clearly state who the mage was, as opposed to making me guess. _________________ Punishment leads to Fear. Fear leads to Obedience. Obedience leads to Freedom. Therefore, Punishment leads to Freedom. Ave Dominus Nox A Fronte Praecipitium a Tergo Lupi Blood Bowl Scraping the Barrel A Tale of Four Swords Passion

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Posted: Fri Jul 28, 2006 12:51 pm Post subject:

Well, I didn't see that coming. Captain Hunt's still alive and ready to join the fight again. Interesting... For me, it all comes back to the fact that, whatever the Circle try to do now, they simply don't have the numbers to fight the Sempa. Three against thousands is lousy odds. If they're to stand any chance, then they either need more Mages or stunningly good equipment to come along. The books may be a start, but there's no telling how long it will be before they prove of any use. The bridge slowed the Sempa down, but it didn't stop them. Artefacts can only do us so much good. We need new recruits, in order to be able to even fight this war, never mind win it. The bridge is a no-no. One Mage and a Captain (no matter how strategically brilliant) is no match for four Sempa and possible reinforcements. Trengin could go after his old friend - but rushing into an enemy stronghold is, likewise, impractical. There are three Mages on the side of good at the moment. To rescue a fourth, you'd have to risk one of the three. The price is just too high. I'd say recruitment has become the order of the day. As a long-term war goal, I'd also like to see the Circle go after an isolated member of the Sempa and try to hold them until some dialogue can be established. Nobody knows what the Sempa want at the moment, or how they can be appeased. It's a pretty fair bet that they can't be defeated long-term, so sooner or later, negotiations will have to take place. Maybe that's something the Circle can keep an eye out for, possibility-wise. So, Etonreh, and recruitment. The rest is just me getting carried away

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Posted: Fri Jul 28, 2006 5:02 pm Post subject:

The bridge is a nono just now. It is important to get this information away to the army and the circle. As Stoat says, time to gather his forces. Infact, I can't see any major reason to attack the bridge at all really, unless it is needed to cross the river. There is a whole squad of enemy there, basically out of the fight. Mmmm. A good chapter there Smee. _________________ Neil Hartley Books. My Amazon page.

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Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 10:39 pm Post subject:

I need a tie-breaker for this decision point and they I can get the next chapter written. Still looking for more ideas,/thoughts for Trengin. Happy Playing _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 1:04 am Post subject:

Good chapter Smeester. Some interesting facts. So Trengin knew Norral when they were children eh? That could prove interesting. And useful. Very Happy

Noticed a coupla corrections:

Quote:

He continued chucking at his

This should be chuckling.

Quote:

but a chared circle

Should be charred.

As to what to do now, I agree with the others that attacking the bridge is far too dangerous, just plain stupid at the moment. As is trying to rescue the captured mage.

So I guess that recruitment is the best option. He could send the soldier with Captain Hunt to get word to Roah; ask him to start frantic recruiting. And then Trengin can do the same. The only way to stand up to the Sempa is to have enough mages to combat their magic; no matter how many troops you have throwing arrows at them, they will just be wasted and killed. Mages appear to be the only way to tip the balance, so recruitment has to start.

*holds breath* Shocked

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Posted: Sun Aug 06, 2006 12:20 pm Post subject:

I agree that recruitment is the order of the day. But one of the things that's making recruitment difficult is that the Sempa seem so invincible, just winning battle after battle. By defending the caravan and killing one of the mages during the bridge attack, we've begun to puncture that myth, but we really need some kind of victory to show that we can win this war. Don't go after the bridge; they'll be expecting that, and it will be well-defended. But we know that they have some kind of secret base not far from here. Try to spy it out and find out where it is. If we can find it, maybe we can do something sneaky, like attacking it while they sleep or poisoning their water supply, that will at least kill some of them and force them to move. That would attract a lot of attention, and hopefully gain us some allies. First order of business is to catch up with Srune and Roah, though. Go back, see what you've got from the caravan, and plan.

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Posted: Sun Aug 06, 2006 1:05 pm Post subject:

Woo - Tie broken. I'm jumping in before it gets tied again then. Not what I was expecting - but Norral is going to follow his own plan and head toward the capital via the main roads. Look for the chapter soon. Thanks for voting and.. Happy Playing _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Aug 11, 2006 7:24 am Post subject:

that was a great chapter... keep it coming

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Posted: Sun Aug 20, 2006 11:14 pm Post subject:

Sorry for the delay guys - A poll for Trengin will be up soon, along with Norral's chapter. Thanks for your patience _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Fri Sep 22, 2006 5:12 pm Post subject:

Phew, finally caught up. I don't know what to do yet, I'll get back on you. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Posted: Mon Sep 25, 2006 1:43 am Post subject:

Good timing D - I hope to get this back up and moving again very soon. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Oct 11, 2006 6:38 am Post subject:

So which chapter are we discussing now? Great story Smee! I finally got caught up and this could easily turn into a full fledged RPG. We should chat I'm not sure which decision point we are currently pondering. I'll throw my two cents in the ring when I know I can speak coherently

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Posted: Wed Oct 11, 2006 11:45 pm Post subject:

Woo - new reader. Could be all I need to push me that last step into writing again.... reads through the thread Ah yes - Trengin has made contact with Captain Hunt, and received a report on the Sempa activities at the bridge. Discussing what Trengin will do next. Next chapter due out is Chapter 20 - which is Norral beginning his journey to the capital via his own route, the main roads. Happy Playing _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu Oct 12, 2006 12:04 pm Post subject:

I would agree that recruitment is going to help in the long run but I also agree that recruiting would be very difficult right now, especially since the Sempa have obliterated a Keep. We need something to show people that the Sempa are not indestructible. We need a prisoner. As crappy as it sounds, we need to show everyone that the Sempa are just people that breathe and bleed like anyone else. How many people actually knew about the caravan? I would think more people would remember the bridge than some minor story about guarding a few artifacts most people probably won't care about. Regardless of what is said about the artifacts, people want to see the truth rather than hear it. Ton change someones mind, they have to be shown something irefutible. I suggest we go about capturing a couple of the Sempa. Perhaps there is something more to Trengin's nature magic than just talking with the trees?

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Posted: Sat Apr 26, 2008 2:09 pm Post subject:

IT"S BACK!!!!!!!! First post. EDIT: I am so happy. This was a great storygame way back when. And now it is back!!!!!!! tries to hide the big red light flashing behind him saying "Suckup alert" My only sadness is that my suggestion of cross-country travel was not taken. EDIT: I would just like to say that i have twitchy-finger-post-it-itis. Which is a rare disease that makes your twitchy finger click on the submit button and then think of something to say. It's tragic. anyways.... Dam... I forgot what I was going to say. Stand by for another edit once i remember. _________________ When the dead walk, the living run. Last edited by DeadManWalking on Sat Apr 26, 2008 2:18 pm; edited 2 times in total

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Posted: Sat Apr 26, 2008 2:10 pm Post subject:

Haha. Norral will be going to the capital on May 7th... Happy Storygaming _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Sat Apr 26, 2008 2:34 pm Post subject:

Oh yes... I remember what i wanted to say. Did we decide Trengin's choice before this think went on hold? Because I believe I already left by then. if we haven't, then I believe that going back to the rest of the circle is the best choice. Recruitment (which seemed to be a strong choice before this ended) is not going to be enough. The longer Hunt takes to recruit the more likely it is that the mages might hear about it (although that is, admittedly not likely). However, a possibility is that the Elders would learn of this and send reinforcements. And it's unlikely that Hunt could find anywhere near enough men to destroy sixteen mages (four left there plus a full squad for reinforcements), even if they have all four mages on their side working together. Look how much trouble they had when they went up against twelve mages with one mage, and he had the element of surprise. So going back to the caravan in an attempt to find any information that could help seems to be the best choice. Unless he finds a way to recruit Emflikars. Edit: Sorry, it is a very horrible disease that has me in its grip. I would also like to say that King Key's arguments from a year and a half ago are also good, and would like to add his argument to my own. The one about how not many people will want to fight the mages given their reputation of invincibility. _________________ When the dead walk, the living run.

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Posted: Sat Apr 26, 2008 11:43 pm Post subject:

Yay, it's back, though I admittedly wasn't here when it stopped, I still tracked it in the Hall of Fame... Now, that was because of the whole Mage thing... No suggestions as to what Trengin should do. _________________ Yes, no, what, hello? Falcon Lord, a linear story by algu!

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Crunchyfrog
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Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2008 6:30 am Post subject:

Just read the first 5 chapters back to back, and so far I like. Not being a fan of fictions magical, particularly when that magic is used for the sake of 'convenience', (scrolls floating around, face shields, dust falling off travel-worn clothes at the flick of a wrist etc.) the writing style, and switching between the two POV between chapters has been enough so far to keep me interested. Certainly Norral's account interspersing the story make's Treng's account much more suspenseful and meaningful to the reader. Other things that have me intrigued are the limitations placed on both sides - the effort that goes into creating magic, the fact that the Sempa don't shield themselves so as to maximise their killing power, the lost knowledge and the limited understanding of it, and these self-cursed Emflikar. Am looking forward to meeting one of those in future chapters. The world is very rich and well thought out, as are the wars and strategies, and the impact of the carnage at the beginning of Chapter 2 was very effective. I realise that this was written as a prequel to Battle to the End which I also haven't read, but taken 'out of context' it has a completeness about the environment that I find satisfying, yet still wanting to know more about the history of it all. I won't comment on technical errors which were fairly abundant in the first chapter especially, as they were written nearly 3 years ago now, but it is clear how talented a writer you are, Smee. Will continue to catch up.

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Smee
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Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2008 8:35 am Post subject:

Thanks for the kind comments Crunchy. Indeed the first few chapters are rife with errors. I spot a handful each time I re-read. It doesn't help that they've been heavily editted too. This is my first piece of major writing save for a couple of 1000 word entries in linear comps, and I had all sort of problems. I was constantly switching between first person and third person, as well as past and present tense completely without realising. Thankfully I was well critiqued back in the day by various members, and I think the later chapters are more consistent. Although I admit, these days I'm not a fan of writing in the first person perspective I chose. grins Magic I'm a big fan of, so it's hardwork for me not to use it at any opportunity. But you make valid points about the limitations that I'll make sure to keep in tact. It's not really a prequel to Battle to the End as such. Neither story has much relevance to each other, save for them being set in the same world. Battle to the End is a much more modern day story, where magic is much more prevalent and sophisticated. But the several authors who worked on Battle to the End, myself included, loved the world and I wanted to develop some of the history as to how some of the circumstances found in BttE might have occured. In some ways Battle to the End could be considered a spoiler to this story, so you're certainly aren't at a disadvantage not having read it. I'm sorry to say, you won't see much mention of Emflikars in current chapters, although they do crop up. There was always plans for them to play a bigger part later though, so hopefully they'll appear in the new chapters I write over the coming months. I may be mistaken, but if memory serves you have a Mr Lotus to thank for their creation in this world. They are an interesting concept. For note, some of the other players involved in the world creation when Battle to the End was being conceived include Ravenwing, Random, Ethereal Fauna, and possible others. Apologies if I missed ya out. Happy Reading _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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D-Lotus
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Posted: Sun Apr 27, 2008 11:04 am Post subject:

Did I hear my name mentioned somewhere? Wait...what's this!? The Time Before comes back? This is good news. I've always cherished this story, especially because of my contributions to Battle. I do feel strangely tied to this world, as Smee has pointed out. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Smee
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Posted: Tue May 06, 2008 2:06 am Post subject:

With much enthusiasm I'd like to announce that... fanfair Chapter 20 has just been posted. Link Happy Discussion

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Key
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Posted: Tue May 06, 2008 7:55 am Post subject:

Yeah, that was pretty stupid to do target practice when you're trying to be incognito. Best thing to do now is to try to convince them that they're on a wild goose chase - maybe say that your fire last night was throwing off a lot of sparks. Make it seem like arresting you would be petty and insignificant - maybe suggest that you've heard that the Sempa are somewhere else. If he doesn't buy it and tries to arrest you anyway, kill them all. You can't afford to be distracted.

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Smee
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Posted: Tue May 06, 2008 8:08 am Post subject:

Doh... forgot to lock the chapter...

This is Chinaren's comment and my reply...

Chinaren wrote:

Quote:

Capital to peddle his wears.

Wares.

Nice chapter Smee, though I did think them rather foolish to be playing with fire, so to speak, in the open. Ah well.

I say he keep in character. A farmer would be nervous confronted with this. Anyway, no, he aint seen nothing sar.

If they try and arrest him though, maybe it will be time for more practice, with bigger targets. Unless they would take them to the capital, and then they can let them, doing the deed once nearer.

Smee wrote:

Thanks Chinny - corrected that.

Quote:

Unless they would take them to the capital

Quote:

Or let yourselves get taken to Etonreh, in the wrong direction to the Capital?

They aren't from the Capital, but Etonreh. The city, amongst other things, where Trengin first went to learn about what's going on and where the caravan is currently being escorted to by Srune and Roah etc.

Smile

Chinaren wrote:

Oh yes. Well, they might take them to the capital though. Wink

Or maybe it's on the way?

In any case, just throwing ideas about. Ooops, dropped one.

Quote:

Yeah, that was pretty stupid to do target practice when you're trying to be incognito

Haha, I have to agree. Bless them, they are just human afterall though. Boredom is rather effective at dulling caution Wink

_________________
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DeadManWalking
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Posted: Tue May 06, 2008 3:40 pm Post subject:

The most likely story that I think will allow them to leave would be to just say that you haven't seen anything. This doesn't seem very convincing, but if you say you saw something, there is no way that the patrol won't at least try (not that they would succeed) to bring you in. If they do try to bring you in, you have to kill them all. because: 1. if you go quietly, you won't have a chance to escape or anything, as they wouldn't just go through all the trouble of bringing you to Etonreh to just let you go. 2. if any of them escape, or if you escape later only killing some of them, the enemy might learn of your existence and your disguise. So you should kill them all, and get rid of the bodies. I suggest incineration. _________________ When the dead walk, the living run.

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D-Lotus
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Posted: Sat May 10, 2008 12:40 pm Post subject:

Tell'em that the Sempa killed yer family while you were traveling. The caravan and the two farmhands is all you have left, and now you is goin' to the capital to demand aid from the king, or the prince, or whoever the hell rules over the land. This demand thing is kinda foolish, which is exactly what this young officer will think 'bout you. He'll dismiss you as a stupid farmer. _________________ Chapter 5: The Rendezvous

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Smee
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Posted: Mon May 12, 2008 4:49 am Post subject:

Alrighty folks, Norral's poll is going up, and you'll be having a Trengin chapter to read tomorrow (probably) to keep you entertained whilst you mull this one over. Opinion seems to be fairly agreed on killing the soldiers should they try to arrest us, so I won't hold a seperate poll for that. Our poll then is to decide which excuse/reasoning are we going to use to try and placte the guards without having to waste time with such pleasant distractions as killing them. Poll will be up until it's time for Trengin's poll. Happy Voting. _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Thu May 15, 2008 6:06 am Post subject:

Time has run away from me, with chat, and reading other stories distracting me. Trengin's return will commence asap, in the meantime, Norral's poll awaits your input. Happy Storygaming _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Reiso
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Posted: Tue Mar 03, 2009 4:33 pm Post subject:

It took me a couple of days to catch up, but I am officially on board as a player here now. Good story, good characters, and excellent decision points. I really enjoy that not only is the story being told from different views, but that we are able to vote on decisions from both sides. I sense this getting rather complicated if and when there is a final showdown between our hero and villain, but it promises to be interesting in any case--can't wait to see how that plays out. Also, great use of pictures as visual storytelling devices. What should our big bad Sempa group do.... I really, really like D's idea of manipulating the guard with the false claim that Sempa killed his family. It's very clever, and I even smiled when I read it, so it is definitely my favorite option. It might even work with a more tolerant sort of guard. But this guy seems kinda hot-headed, and he may respond to the arrogance of a demand from a peasant farmer by throwing him in a cell just to teach him a lesson in manners. The fire option seems too implausible to me. Anyone who would have spotted the fireballs would likely be an experienced enough scout to know a campfire when he sees one (as he must all the time), and so be quite able to tell the difference between one of those, and several fireballs flying up high above the treeline. Think about it. Also, both of those choices are more complex fabrications, which means the guard is more likely to see through them and know that they are lying. Simplest is best, so I'm going with "We ain't seen no Sempa." It's lame, but it's hard to disprove or refute, and carries less risk of pissing off the guard. Depending on how good a liar this guy is, maybe embellish it by feigning that he doesn't even know what a Sempa is (that some kind of bird or somethin'?), but that too would be risky and possibly overplayed. _________________ Sector 17 -- Rebuilding... ... ... In the desert I saw a creature, naked, bestial, Who, squatting upon the ground, Held his heart in his hands, And ate of it. I said, "Is it good, friend?" "It is bitter--bitter," he answered; "But I like it Because it is bitter And because it is my heart." -- Stephen Crane

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Smee
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Posted: Wed Mar 04, 2009 12:05 am Post subject:

Chuckles Oh no, Reiso... what have you done! I'm flattered that you've gone to the effort of catching up with this story, and glad that you've enjoyed it but if you glance at the dates of the last posts, you'll see that I've added nothing to this story for the last 10 months. I do feel guilty though - back then I large number of people also caught up, and all they got for their trouble was one chapter (not even a lousy t-shirt!). I'll poke the ol' muse and see what he says back. Happy Playing. EDIT: Hmmm... I don't seem to have made a note of the decision made re: Trengin's next chapter. Backtracking and reading comments though, and it seems general opinion was to get back to Srune and Roah, and get recruiting. pokes muse _________________ The path of my life is strewn with cowpats from the Devil's own Satanic Herd!

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Posted: Wed Mar 04, 2009 12:25 am Post subject:

Smee wrote:

...if you glance at the dates of the last posts, you'll see that I've added nothing to this story for the last 10 months.

Indeed, this is something that I did not notice until (much to my chagrin), I was mostly finished catching up. Though I have noticed since then that you also have something far more recent in Skiffiville, so I'll take a look there too.

So... no pressure. Very Happy

_________________

Sector 17 -- Rebuilding... ... ...

In the desert
I saw a creature, naked, bestial,
Who, squatting upon the ground,
Held his heart in his hands,
And ate of it.
I said, "Is it good, friend?"
"It is bitter--bitter," he answered;
"But I like it
Because it is bitter
And because it is my heart." -- Stephen Crane

How does Norral answer the guard?

Humbly deny all knowledge of any Sempa?

42%

[ 3 ]

Explain that your fire was throwing up a lot of sparks last night? Easily mistaken for fireballs at a distance.

14%

[ 1 ]

Sempa killed your family. You're heading straight to the Capital to complain and demand recompense?

28%

[ 2 ]

Author option (DO NOT USE)

14%

[ 1 ]

Total Votes : 7

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