The GM says, "Okay then let's roll."
The GM says, "Given the size of forces, and the need to
coordinate, some of the red men will ride with each force."
The GM says, "Zardan himself will lead the all
important decoy force. Col Egerton-Chase and his batman Singh will ride with
them as well."
The GM says, "Teatum will ride with the stampede force,
to give them the added firepower of a henry repeating rifle and twin
colts."
The GM says, "Whittington and alexandra are not
considered part of the tribe and will remain back at the camp."
The GM says, "Your rescue force will consist of the
brothers Grimes, Dr Price, Leeghwater, Emsworth, Wilkins, and an equal number
of Natives lead by Jekuyaz."
AllenPrice says, "With extra Gashaants? I assume
Martian women can ride as well as the men."
The GM says, "At dusk the elders and healers call all
the warriors together to sing chants to their gods for victory and a swift death
if nothing else."
Emsworth says, "I'm sorry, could you repeat the mission
of the rescue force? I want to be sure I've got it right."
The GM says, "Actually a Gashant can carry two in a
pinch, but the stampede force will be able to bring over extra mounts."
You say, "We are off to rescue the Martian women that
were kidnapped"
Leeghwater takes the time to pray to God and to write a Will
and a letter to his wife and children
The GM says, "You are to enter the camp after the decoy
force draws off the troopers. The stampede force strikes next and routs the
heavy ruumet breehrs and steal extra gashants."
The GM says, "The rescue force goes in last and rescues
as many of the women as possible and using the dynamite in Grimes possession,
destry as much of the cavalry's supplies as possible."
AllenPrice says, "Sounds like a couple of raids I
patched soldiers up after in the West."
AllenPrice hmmmms. "What skill is involved with using
dynamite? Or does one just light it and run?"
You say, "Explosives I think"
The GM says, "After the songs to the gods have been
sung and a final check of all gear and tack, the decoy foces moves out and Col
Egerton-Chase gives you a smart salute as he rides by, despite his age still
looking every bit the soldier he's been is whole life."
AllenPrice can probably handle the light-and-run technique,
but he's never handled dynamite otherwise."
Emsworth says, "Lighting a fuse and throwing a stick of
dynamite hardly seems to require any formal skill. Now, planting a bunch of
stick where they will destroy a dam or something like that is different."
The GM says, "Grimes will handle the explosives using
the explosives skill, but most will be the light and run, or light and throw
method."
AllenPrice . o O ( Remember: Once the fuse is lit, Mr. Dynamite
is no longer your friend. )
Emsworth . o O ( And also: It's light fuse, THEN throw... )
The GM says, "The stampede force rides out next and
sweeps off to approach from the opposite side of the laager, as he rides by,
Buff tips his hat and smiles. You can tell this is a moment he's lived his
whole life for."
The GM says, "And with little fanfare, your tiny 12 man
force rides off last."
The GM says, "You're riding with the barest minimal
tack, your loads lightened to give the beasts the maximum lift capacity."
The GM says, "As the sunlight fades, you quickly lose
sight of the other groups and you are now alone."
The GM says, "Jekuyaz keeps a tough pace, fast as he
can go without exausting the mounts."
AllenPrice checks his rifle and loosens his claymore in the
scabbard.
The GM says, "In the darkness, you will all have to
make three ride rolls. The task number is 4."
On 2d6, you rolled 6.
On 2d6, you rolled 7.
Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 8.
On 2d6, you rolled 5.
Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 8.
Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 2.
Emsworth says, "Now for Wilkins:"
The GM says, "Emsworth, make an agility roll"
Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 6.
JFZeigler rolls 2d6, and gets a 0.
Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 8.
JFZeigler rolls 2d, and gets a 6.
JFZeigler rolls 2d, and gets a 7.
Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 8.
JFZeigler rolls 2d, and gets a 3.
Emsworth . o O ( ooops! )
The GM says, "You succeeded in keeping from being
thrown when the gashant stepped into an old roogie hole."
Emsworth says, "agility roll:"
Hans rolls 3d, and gets a 9.
The GM says, "Guess I misunderstood one of your rolls,
but the result is still the same. You stay mounted."
The GM says, "Despite the small mishap you reach your
assigned position in time."
AllenPrice says, "I missed one too. One moment:"
JFZeigler rolls 5d, and gets a 20.
AllenPrice grins.
The GM says, "The Doctor does a little jig while his
gashant misteps."
The GM says, "You can't help but think "Show
off!""
The GM says, "Once in position, comes the hard part the
wait."
Leeghwater . o O ( Show Off! )
Emsworth says, "I'll be AFK for a few minutes."
The GM says, "Fortunately with redmen in each group,
you have watches with each group, so timing won't be a problem."
The GM says, "Like with any raid, the time is set for
3AM when it seems both Humans and Martians are at their lowest point. Even the
few guards are lethargic."
The GM says, "In the still desert air however, sound
carries for miles and you hear the whoops and shots that start the raid
precisely at 3AM."
Emsworth says, "I'm back."
The GM says, "The camp is dumbdounded by the native's
attack. The feeble light of the two moons isn't much to see by, so you can only
tell the Cavalry is responding by the increase of musket fire."
The GM says, "Your every fiber screams for you to ride,
but the timing of your attack was carefully worked out. You MUST exactly 10
minutes before moving."
AllenPrice keeps taking out his watch, flipping it open,
closing it. Flipping it open, closing it.
Leeghwater prays his Holy Mary's
The GM says, "The sounds of the battle increase and
despite the dim light, you can see your comrades retreating and the cavalry
boiling after them."
AllenPrice wants to get out his binoculars, but is reluctant
to do anything that might make a glint.
The GM says, "The time seems like it has compressed it
moves so slow, but finally Thomas Grimes signals to move."
Leeghwater rides
The GM says, "You mount up and spur your gastanst to a
gallop."
AllenPrice thumps his gashaant's flanks, keeps his rifle at
the ready.
Emsworth puts his gashant into motion and wilkins follws him
closely.
The GM says, "As you approach you hear the increase in
fire as the stampede force strikes."
The GM says, "Hit from the east and west flanks, the
cavarly are confused by the sophisticated native attack."
The GM says, "The stampede foce hits the western gate
and despite the din you can clearly hear a distinct
"YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO""
AllenPrice chuckles.
The GM says, "With the bulk of the troopers off chasing
the decoys, the stampede force rips through the rear guard, but you hear the
screams that tell you many a saddle will be empty this night."
The GM says, "Now as you ride low you appraoch the
northern gate."
The GM says, "You can see a few troopers guarding the
gate and they begin to fire."
You say, "Range?"
AllenPrice whips his rifle up and begins to return fire.
The GM says, "You get within 100 yards before being
noticed."
Emsworth gauges the range.
The GM says, "The hastily fired shots strike no one.
It's obvious the best troopers went after the decoys."
The GM says, "These quartermasters and cooks probably
haven't been underfire in their whole lives."
The GM says, "Your gashants thunder on and the range
drops to 60 yards."
As the rescue party reaches 60 yards distance Emsworth takes
aim and fires.
AllenPrice will aim and fire.
Hans rolls 3d, and gets a 7.
The GM says, "The guards frantically try to reload
their muskets."
Emsworth says, "Oops, wrong..."
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 4.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 1.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 4.
JFZeigler rolls 1d, and gets a 1.
JFZeigler rolls 1d, and gets a 4.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 2.
JFZeigler rolls 1d, and gets a 2.
Emsworth says, "Two hits, two misses."
Leeghwater fires once for the sound effects
The GM says, "What weapon are you using Hans?"
Emsworth says, "My Winchester carbine."
The GM says, "You see two guards fall"
The GM says, "You ride on and range drops to 20
yards"
Emsworth says, "If there are any more guards to see
I'll fire again."
AllenPrice slips his rifle into his saddle scabbard, draws
his claymore, and has at them. No Scottish war cries this time.
On 1d6, you rolled 1.
The GM says, "The gards are almost ready to shoot
again."
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 4.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 3.
Leeghwater inflicts 1 damage
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 6.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 1.
The GM says, "There are 8 guards left"
Emsworth says, "Two hits, two misses."
The GM says, "And the natives fire their bows."
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 4.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 1.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 2.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 1.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 3.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 2.
Emsworth says, "Wilkins fires one barrel of the
Holland&Holland, reloads, fires, and reloads."
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 5.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 3.
Emsworth says, "Both misses."
The GM says, "THe arrows scythe through the guards and
you see four more drop"
Emsworth . o O ( The sound of the elephant gun may be a bit
unnerving, though... )
The GM says, "This is more than the terrified
quartermasters can take, the two remaining guards throw down their muskets and
run!"
The GM says, "The gate is clear!"
The GM says, "You can jump the abbatis like gate with a
roll of 12. but given your momentum, I'll give you a +1d to your ride
skill."
Emsworth starts slipping cartridges into the Winchester to
get tit to full capacity, including one in the breech.
On 3d6, you rolled 9.
Leeghwater . o O ( Eep )
The GM says, "Or you can play it save and steer through
the gap, your momentum counts against you here and you will have to roll an
8"
The GM says, "If you take two turns to ride through the
roll is only 4"
Emsworth tries to jump and Wilkins resignedly follows.
The GM says, "You can re-roll leeghwatr as I wasn't
finished explaining your options yet"
You say, "Thanks. "
The GM says, "The Natives all go for the jump"
The GM rolled 6d6 and got 17.
The GM rolled 5d6 and got 18.
Hans rolls 3d, and gets a 8.
The GM rolled 5d6 and got 22.
The GM rolled 5d6 and got 22.
Emsworth doesn't make it.
The GM rolled 5d6 and got 13.
Hans rolls 3d, and gets a 15.
The GM rolled 5d6 and got 14.
AllenPrice will try the jump. He's foolhardy.
Leeghwater will play it save and shoot at enemies at the
10+, by 20- range
JFZeigler rolls 3d, and gets a 17.
On 2d6, you rolled 9.
AllenPrice . o O ( Hah! )
wilkins makes the jump but immidiately reins in and goes
back.
The GM says, "THe natives, the doctor and wilkins all
clear the gate"
The GM says, "Leeghwater slows and safely works through
the gap"
The GM says, "Emsworth fails to claer the gate, roll
your agility to jump clear"
Hans rolls 3d, and gets a 14.
The GM says, "You leap safely from your mount who is
unfortunately badly hurt."
The GM says, "You land hard and take a wound."
"Catch my saddle, Wilkins!" Emsworth cries.
The GM says, "The brothers Grime play it safe and
slowly ride through the gate."
AllenPrice looks around quickly. Where's the danger, and
where's the target?
Hans asks, "What's the target number for a First Aid
roll?"
The GM says, "A 12"
Emsworth says, "Not good odds with a skill of 2."
AllenPrice sees the problem, jumps down to help.
JFZeigler rolls 5d, and gets a 24.
Thomas Grimes dismounts and draws a stick of dynamite and
turns to you. "We'll need a cleaned way out that this thing allows.
Quickly every one get some distance."
The GM says, "And Emsworth is ready to go."
Hans asks, "Is my gashant to badly hurt to live?"
The GM says, "Everyone roll observation please!"
Hans rolls 5d, and gets a 25.
JFZeigler rolls 5d, and gets a 16.
Hans rolls 3d, and gets a 6.
The GM says, "You can see he's probably going to have
to be put down."
Emsworth says, "wilkins probably doesn't notice
;-)."
On 4d6, you rolled 7.
The GM says, "Despite your concern for your mount
Emsworth clearly hears the sounds of a woman's scream"
The GM says, "They are to the south, fairly close less
than 50yards"
Struggling hard to keep his face blank, Emsworth raises his carbine
and puts his faithful mount out of its misery. He then turns towards the
screams.
The GM says, "One sound becomes blatantly clear to you
all, the sounds of terrified and massive animals stampeding."
Emsworth says, "The women are thataway! I heard one of
them scream!"
Leeghwater rides in the direction he thinks Emsworth is
pointing
Emsworth says, "Wilkins, see if you can catch me a
gashant."
The GM says, "You see the western part of the camp
start to rip apart as the almost elephant size creatures plow through tentage
and the western gate."
The GM says, "On foot emswoth trails the pack as the
others all head toward what is probably the center of the camp."
AllenPrice remounts and heads in that direction. "Mr.
Emsworth, if you'd care to ride double for a few minutes?"
The GM says, "The confusion is amazing as lone and
terrifed troopers run from place to place"
Emsworth says, "Thank you, Doctor, I'd be happy
to."
The GM says, "Some of the freed gashants run about
confused."
AllenPrice says, "Emsworth will ride with me, so he can
keep up."
Thomas Grimes reaches you. "Quickly lads, we've only
got a few seconds!"
Wilkins looks around for one that is not running. Both
because it will be easier to catch and because he wants his master to have a
docile mount.
The GM says, "You move toward the sounds of the screams
just as thunder rends the night."
AllenPrice says, "Hah!"
AllenPrice will keep his sword out, for close-quarters work.
The GM says, "The dynamite goes off and shatters the
abatis gate. THe secondary effect is it forces the remaining guards to take
cover as they think they are under artillery fire."
The GM says, "Every one roll one d6 please."
On 1d6, you rolled 4.
JFZeigler rolls 1d, and gets a 2.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 4.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 4.
The GM says, "you make it though the camp unscathed.
There is simply too much confusion for the cavalry to mount a proper
defense."
The GM says, "You see a large tent before you and you
can all clearly hear the sounds of terrified women screaming."
AllenPrice fairly leaps off his gashaant and sprints toward
the tent entrance.
The GM says, "Before you can get closer you see what
had to be the women's security detachment move to block your advance."
The GM says, "This ragged group of six guards seem to
be the last between you and the women."
AllenPrice says, "CRUACHAN!"
AllenPrice . o O ( The blood will out. )
Emsworth . o O ( Whose blood? The doctor's or the guards'? )
The GM says, "The guards and the natives with you both
fire simultaneously."
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 5.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 4.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 3.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 1.
AllenPrice says, "I take a roundhouse swipe at the
first one I encounter."
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 4.
Emsworth fires too.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 5.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 4.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 6.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 3.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 3.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 6.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 6.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 4.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 3.
Emsworth says, "One hit, three misses. Damn!"
Leeghwater moves to such a distance that the guards are 11
yards away, before he fires
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 6.
On 1d6, you rolled 1.
The GM rolled 1d6 and got 1.
Leeghwater hits again!
Emsworth says, "Attaboy, Leeghwater!"
The GM says, "you see one guard and one of your native
comrades fall from the fire."
AllenPrice says, "Range?"
The GM says, "Leegwater drops a second guard."
The GM says, "15 yards"
AllenPrice continues to run forward, shouting and looking as
if he believes himself immune to bullets.
The GM . o O ( Leeghwater has a fleeting thought of how in
the HELL did I end up here. I'm supposed to be selling my inventions. )
Leeghwater . o O ( Wat doe ik hier!? )
The GM says, "The guards don't have time to reload and
prepare to meet the doctor's charge with bayonets."
AllenPrice says, "Let me know when the Doctor is in
claymore range."
The GM says, "Emsworth and leeghwater can get off
anothe volley before melee ensues."
The GM says, "The Natives draw their swords and move in
with the doctor."
Leeghwater [to GM]: If I shoot 3 times at double range then
I'm at -2, right?
The GM says, "Correct"
Leeghwater . o O ( After rolling all those 1s )
On 1d6, you rolled 5.
On 1d6, you rolled 3.
On 1d6, you rolled 2.
Emsworth says, "Can I gety in one more volley?"
Leeghwater misses 3 times
The GM says, "Your pistol clicks empty as well"
The GM says, "Yes Emsworth"
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 3.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 4.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 2.
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 3.
Emsworth says, "Three hits, one miss. The odds reassert
themselves."
The GM says, "With only one guard remaining, it isn't
combat, it's slaughter. He's cut to ribbons without being able to hit."
Leeghwater spends the next 2 rounds reloading his gun,
whilst looking around for something heavy to wield as a weapon
AllenPrice wipes the blade of his sword and heads for the
tent entrance.
The GM says, "Jekuyaz slashes open the back of the tent
and is nearly bowled over by the women."
Emsworth reloads his carbine.
Hans asks, "Did Wilkins have any luck catching a
gashant?"
AllenPrice . o O ( Fair maiden, I'm here to rescue -- ACK! )
Thomas Grimes shouts. "TALLY HO LADS! This will give
these blighters what for." And he points to several barrels, some clearly
still marked "black powder" and obviously are left over from Crown
stores captured when Stashtapsh mutinied.
AllenPrice grins.
The GM says, "Wilkins hasn't had much luck, but you see
a slightly bloodied, hatless, Teatum and several of the Ntives arrive with two
dozen Gashants."
Teatum grins. "What kep you fellers?"
Emsworth grins back. "What do you mean, Teatum? We've
been waiting for you."
AllenPrice says, "They also serve who only stand and
wait. On the other hand, this neighborhood seems likely to be very unhealthy
soon. . ."
The GM says, "Thomas and James Grimes place several
sticks of dynamite in the cavalry's powder magazine. Waiting for you to get ehe
women mounted before lighting the fuze."
Wilkins appropriates one of the gashants and takes it to the
(former) North gate where he transfers Emsworth's saddle from the dead gashant
to the living.
The GM says, "There aren't quite enough mounts for
every one so some of you guys will have to suffer having some sweet young thing
clinging to your backs for the ride how."
AllenPrice bites his tongue.
The GM says, "You quickly get the women on mounts and
whom is willing to ride double? We are short 7 mounts?"
Leeghwater is willing to ride double
AllenPrice will, now that he knows which end of a gashaant
is which.
Emsworth says, "All of us, I expect. Bertie and wilkins
are, anyway."
The GM says, "Teatum agrees as well, that's five, so
two ride with natives."
AllenPrice says, "Time to go!"
The GM says, "You spur your mounts and head
north."
The GM says, "The brothers Grimes bring up the rear,
mounting right after lighting the fuzes."
The GM says, "Everyone roll 1 d6 please"
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 3.
Leeghwater conertrates on riding
Hans rolls 1d, and gets a 2.
On 1d6, you rolled 3.
JFZeigler rolls 1d, and gets a 3.
Emsworth says, "Three for Bertie, 2 for Wilkins."
The GM says, "You reach the gate unmolested by the now
throughly routed cavalry. James grimes has a close moment as a lone guard takes
a poorly aimed shot at him that misses."
The GM says, "Knowing the fuze is short he just
crouches futher down on his mount and acellerates out of the laager"
The GM says, "You don't even cover 100 yards before a
thunderous explosion rips through the cavalry laager"
AllenPrice . o O ( I love the smell of black powder in the
morning. )
The GM says, "Bits of debris arc through the night like
fire works"
The GM . o O ( It smells of victory )
The GM says, "The added benefit is the women grip a
little tighter. Not an unpleasant effect at all."
The GM says, "You ride on, keeping a someone slower
pace than your outbound trip"
The GM says, "You see the sun come up over the eastern
sky, but it takes about 2 more hours to rech the huge camp of your clan
mates."
Leeghwater tries to keep his mind on the ghasant... not of
the martian woman gripping him.
The GM says, "As you ride into the camp there is a
muted tone to the celibrations."
The GM says, "As you ride in Emsworth you hear a joyful
shout."
Emsworth looks around.
The GM says, "You turn and see Ranix races toward you
full speed."
Emsworth gallantly hands down the woman that has been
sharing his gashant.
The GM says, "The native maiden that was riding with
you lithely leaps from your mount and runs to Ranix."
The GM says, "They fall together in a crushing embrace
and you realize tht this can only be his beloved O'ona returned to him."
Emsworth sighs sentimentally.
Leeghwater cheers
AllenPrice . o O ( Hey, this never happened to John Carter.
Oh, well. )
The GM says, "You dismount and despite the sleepness
night, you are too caught up in the uphoria to even consider sleep."
Emsworth . o O ( John Carter? Wrong time AND wrong universe
;-) )
The GM says, "Even the reserved Alexandra runs to her
husband James and gives him an eyebrow raising kiss that would never been seen
on the Strand."
Jeyukaz approaches you, dismounts and offers each of you a
firm hand to elbow greating that is the steppe native's equivalent to a
handshake.
AllenPrice says, "Now that we're out of combat, Dr.
Price reverts to his usual reserved, somewhat shy self."
Jeyukaz. "I have misjudged you redmen. I apologize for
not thinking you worthy. I am proud to call you all my brothers."
The GM says, "Jeyukaz leads you to find the steppe lord
Zardan."
The GM says, "When you reach Zardan's tent, he limps
out, his leg and shoulder bandaged."
The GM says, "They speak and you see Jeyukaz's face
fall."
Zardan truns to you and speaks. "Welcome back redmen
who are my brothers."
Zardan continues. "You have brought us the greatest
victory against the city dwellers in memory, but the price was high.
Zardan sighs deeply. "The decoy force lost 80 men, and
100 more wounded."
AllenPrice says, "Tell him that I'm a healer, and will
do what I can."
Zardan adds grimly. "But we killed at least as many,
plus the damage to their heavy mounts and camp. They will go home short close
to 150 men.
Zardan smiles slightly. "This is a great, great
victory."
The GM says, "He then re enters his tent to confer with
the other surviving elders."
Leeghwater offers to pray for the fallen
AllenPrice says, "I have medical training and some
Leadership skill. I can help organize triage and provide some surgical care, if
they wish."
The GM says, "Dr Price applies his vast medical skills
and is instrumental in saving dozens of lives that would otherwise have been
lost."
The GM says, "You stay in the camp close to a
week."
Leeghwater helpes Dr Price in anyway he can
The GM says, "You get several reports from scouts and
you find the Cavarly has withdrawn from the steppes and ran back to
Stashtapsh."
Emsworth will likewise assist. He has some small medical
knowledge (skill 2).
The GM says, "You teach the natives the concept of
triage and your medical skill, plus local herbal medicines, works wonders for
the wounded."
Emsworth says, "I wonder what they were doing here in
the first place. What with being at war with us, I should have thought they
would have better things to do."
AllenPrice says, "We're not all that far from Shatapsh,
if I remember right. yes?"
The GM says, "You learn it is common for Stashtaph to
conduct raids on the natives of the steppes to keep them from encroaching on
the city."
The GM says, "It's cheap thrills and usualy returns
with lots of women to work in the city's bordellos."
The GM says, "When it comes time for you to leave, you
get word that the night before you go, Zardan commands you to come to
him."
AllenPrice hmmmphs.
Leeghwater [to GM]: What about the balloon project? Does it
work?
"So the natives raid the city, too. I guess it's six of
one and half a dozen of the other. But the natives are our hosts and the
Shastaspi are our enemies, so I guess it worked out for the best,"
Emsworth thinks.
The GM says, "In your spare time you complete your
experiment, you fill it with hot air, and it successful ascends to the limits
of the braided hide you have for rope."
Leeghwater cheers
Leeghwater shows the natives how it works and that they can
now watch danger coming from afar.
The GM says, "The elders are impressed, but doubt they
have the amout of fuel to keep it filled."
Leeghwater explains that they could keep it until they need
it.
The GM says, "They accept your gift, and like the
concept of triage, and striking at a laager, they will remember."
The GM says, "You get the feeling that there is a
subtle shift in the balance of power."
AllenPrice hmmms, and suspects we ought to make a point of
distinguishing between the Shatapshi and the British allies. Don't want our
friends raiding Moerus Lacus.
The GM says, "And Emsworth, the natives only raid
caravans and others that encroach on their lands without leave. They never raid
the city."
AllenPrice ahas.
Emsworth will ask the elders if they'd recieve a delegation
from the British if they came to them to talk alliance?
The GM says, "The night you are to come before the
steppelord, you enter the council area and it is lined with all the elders and
warriors that can still stand."
The GM says, "Fazuck calls you all forward and you
stand before Zardan."
Zardan speaks. "You stand before me and not kneel as
you are my brothers and are my equal.
Zardan. "You each have something given to you earlier,
but it is time to return them.
Zardan waits as Fazuck steps before you and removes the
necklace you were given almost forever ago.
Zardan then waits for Fazuck to enter his tent and come back with a woven bowl, covered with
gashant hide.
Leeghwater waits patiently
Zardan speaks again. "It is time for you to have the
proper sigals of a warrior.
Fazuck steps in front of each of you and takes a new
necklace, each with three teeth of predators, and two small hand carven bones
dyed bright red.
Zardan the steps before each of you.
Leeghwater bowes his head to accept the necklace
Emsworth and Wilkins follows suit.
Zardan smiles as he steps in front of Emsworth. "You
are my brother and your name is Wocwata."
The GM says, "He steps in front of each of you and you
are all given native names."
The GM says, "Price you are Melnax."
The GM says, "Leeghwater you are now Kanjiss"
AllenPrice . o O ( What is this clan or tribe's name? )
The GM says, "Wilkins becomes Toshgaar"
The GM says, "This is your name within the tribe."
AllenPrice says, "Right. Which tribe is this?"
The GM says, "You are all members of the Southern
Shistomik tribe."
AllenPrice makes a note.
The GM says, "Wocwata means swift."
The GM says, "Kanjiss means wise."
The GM says, "Melnax means Nurturer"
The GM says, "And Toshgaar means loyal."
The GM says, "All those named as warriors of the tribe
are given the necklaces and a tribal name."
The GM says, "You all swear oaths of loyalty and
brotherhood."
The GM says, "And it is possible that a further
mission, might bring the tribe into alliance with HM goverment."
The GM says, "But that is for another day."
You say, "Thanks Zardan"
The GM says, "Your official status is that of a
Free-lance, you are a warrior that is on a quest. You are free to cross the
steppes and may find assitance at any camp you come upon."
Emsworth says, "Colonel Edgerton may want to lead an
expedition out here."
The GM says, "The following morning you are given an
honor escort and you ride for Moeris Lacus."
AllenPrice sighs. "We never did bag a steppe tiger,
though."
The GM says, "Given the size of your party, you are not
bothered by any one or thing during the ten day ride back to the city."
Emsworth says, "Never mind, we'll have another try some
day, Doctor."
Hans [to Green Map]: what is the native languagew called?
The GM says, "Your escort stops at the edge of the
steppes, where the cultivated lands of the canals take over fromt he wilds of
the steppes."
The GM says, "Napenthes."
Emsworth says, "I think I've been talking it so much
that I ought to select it as my fourth language."
The GM says, "The following day you return to the city
of Moeris Lacus. Less a Steppe Tiger pelt, but with a story that sets
telegraphs and printing presses clattering."
The GM says, "I'll add it Hans."
Emsworth looks forward to telling the tale in the Explorers'
Club.
AllenPrice ought to bump up his Linguistics and add
Napenthes too.
The GM says, "The magazines Harpers buys your story out
right and that will be 5 pounds each on top of the 10 the Grimes agreed to pay
you."
The GM says, "The cane, and necklace from the tomb are
also highly sought after archeological items and can be sold for a fair
sum."
Emsworth says, "Don't we want to keep those,
friends?"
The GM says, "THe question is do you wish to keep them,
sell them, or donate them?"
Emsworth says, "What would they bring?"
The GM says, "a fablous 90 pounds. 60 for the necklace,
30 for the cane."
AllenPrice has no objection to selling them to some
*reputable* collector or museum.
The GM says, "That would be 10 more pounds each"
Emsworth says, "I'll cover that if the rest of you are
agreeable. I think we ought to keep them 'in the family'."
The GM says, "Your story and proof has brought out the
finest collectors, so that is not a problem."
The GM says, "I beleive I can speak for teatumon this
one and he'd love the money."
AllenPrice says, "If you want to buy the rest of us
out, that's fine, Mr. Emsworth."
Leeghwater agrees
Hans [to Peracles]: So I'll deduct 80 pounds from my
fortune?
AllenPrice hmmmms. How many of us are there?
Peracles [to Hans]: ok
Emsworth says, "GM said 10 pounds apiece, 90 in
all."
AllenPrice ahas. NPCs. Right.
Emsworth says, "So I assumed 9."
The GM says, "The rest of you then earn a total of 25
pounds for the trip."
AllenPrice bumps up his money by 10 more pounds.
The GM says, "Counting whittington, the grimes, and the
none present PCs."
Emsworth says, "Bertie don't take money from Grimes,
but he'll take the 5 pounds from Harpers and give it to Wilkins."
The GM says, "You are also deposed by the governor
general of Moeris Lacus."
AllenPrice says, "How about XP?"
The GM says, "Fair enough Emsworth."
Emsworth . o O ( Deposed? Were we ever enthroned? )
The GM says, "Two general XP for all of you"
Leeghwater donates the last 10 pounds to a local temple.
The GM says, "And the doctor gets one Close combat
point as well."
AllenPrice says, "Aha, here's somehthing else. You
doing Renown points?"
The GM says, "XP totals as I have them. emsworth 7,
leeghwater 4, price 4"
You say, "Only has 2"
Emsworth says, "Wilkins will spend 3 of his 3.5 XPs to
get his marksmanship (rifle) up to 3."
The GM says, "Just getting to that and why I mentioned
your speaking to the governor-general"
The GM says, "OK Hans"
The GM says, "Your actions have had an unintended
ripple effect."
Emsworth says, "I have 7 points on my record as
well."
You say, "Marksmanship 2+3; machinist 2; Ghasant 2 for
9xp"
The GM says, "The army of Shashtapsh suffered a heavy
loss and the realignment of foces to protect agains the suddenly more savy
steppe riders has forced Stashtasph to have to thin the lines facing the crown
soldiers."
The GM says, "This has taken some pressure of the
tommies and HM govermnet is greatful."
Leeghwater . o O ( Tommies? Before WWI? )
The GM says, "For your efforts you will each
recieve...."
The GM says, "One point in exploration and one point in
Patriotic service."
The GM says, "They've been called tommies since
Kiplings time."
Emsworth says, "How does renown points work?"
You say, "I thought they were named after a soldier in
WWI, fancy that"
The GM says, "And that my friends, as the e-mail said,
is a wrap!"
AllenPrice says, "What's the dominant Martian language
in the Crown Colonies?"
The GM says, "Renown points accumulate and act as fame.
for each 5 points in one areas you have a +1 to be recognized."
The GM says, "Parhooni in the colony and then koline
the trade language."
The GM says, "YOu can also use renown points to go up
in social level"
The GM says, "A one time for 10 points in one area,
social levels 1-3 can go up one level"
Emsworth says, "The name 'tommy Atkins' goes back to
1815, but was popularized by kipling in his poem _The Ballad of TA_ in
1892."
AllenPrice says, "Okay. I'll bump my Linguistics up to
2 and take Koline as my second language. Tired of having to use standard
American technique of Talking Loudly to Foreigners."
The GM says, "SL 4-5 can for 20 points in one area go
up 1"
Leeghwater [to GM]: You miscounted my XP somewhere, btw
Emsworth says, "Long way to the strawberry leaves,
then."
The GM says, "It is a highly stratified system"
AllenPrice says, "I'm being summoned to attend to
children while Lynne makes dinner. See you folks in a couple of weeks?"
Leeghwater nds
Peracles [to JHG]: I did? How many do you show?
Emsworth says, "No matter. Bertie prefers being a
gentleman."
The GM says, "Bye Jon"
JFZeigler has deleted all of their local references.
Emsworth says, "Bye, Jon."
JFZeigler waves.
JFZeigler puts on his helmet and takes up his spear.
Shouting the paean, he charges off into the distance.
Leeghwater [to GM]: Currently 2 => Marksmanship 2+3;
machinist 2; Ghasant 2 for 9xp + 2 for today
The GM says, "Oh right forgot to count the two spent on
gashant. you should have 2 XP"
Leeghwater nds
The GM says, "Then barring any questions, that with be
that. please remember to delete your local reference."
Leeghwater cannot forget
Emsworth says, "What's the date when we get back to
Moeris Lacus?"
Leeghwater is looking at his inventions list
The GM says, "Yep you are Mister Macro! :-)"
Hans has deleted all of their local references.
Leeghwater nds
The GM says, "The Ides of March Hans"
Peracles has deleted all of their local references.
Hans says, "we've been away some 40 days, then?"
Peracles says, "15 March 1889. 43 altogether."
Hans says, "I shall chalk up one month's income,
then."
Peracles [to Hans]: good plan!
Hans says, "Do we pick up again here and now when we
continue the game or do we return to Syrtis major for some downtime?"
Leeghwater could increase his Electricity skill and try to
invent Batteries
Peracles says, "We will pick up right from here."
Hans says, "OK."
Hans says, "what about knowledge? Any result form
Bertie's botanizing during the trip?"
You say, "Or increase his understanding of Optics and
go for the Telescope"
Peracles says, "So many choices."
The lion snickers
Peracles says, "I guess I could give you a reserch die
for biology only."
Hans says, "Biochemistry? "
Peracles says, "15 March 1889"
Leeghwater wonders if he would have used his research dice
in a different way with the game system knowledge he has now.
Hans says, "How would a biology only research die work?
Is it different from a biochemistry research die?"
Peracles says, "You've got a lot of choices as an
inventor"
You say, "Not if I understand it."
JHG [to Peracles]: Indeed
Peracles says, "Some burn up all their dice and have
one or two high level devices"
JHG [to Peracles]: It might be wise to concentrate as an
inventor. But I'm not totatly sure if it would have changed anything
Peracles says, "Others spread their knowledge out and
have several low value devices"
Peracles says, "Either works"
You say, "Well. I will need to find a laboratory to try
to really invent something. Transfer it from paper to RL "
Peracles says, "Exactly, maybe vist a lab in Syrtis
Major?"
You say, "That's where we started, right?"