Worlde Arcane: East Road

The Eastern Road out of Caradon provides a straight southeasterly route to the city of Korstun on the eastern coast of the continent, passing through the northern part of the Elvana Forest.

Big Spring Camp - 1 Day from Caradon September 28, 2009 - 5:11 pm

Eastern Plains Camp - 2 Days from Caradon September 26, 2009 - 10:08 pm

Flander's Old Homestead - 3 Days from Caradon September 8, 2009 - 7:29 pm

Last Leg of East Road - Into/Out of Korstun September 19, 2009 - 8:56 pm

Cliffs off the east road July 17, 2009 - 4:05 pm

By Cloaked Elven Bandit, Edde (Eddellyn)

Tuesday, August 14, 2007 - 6:19 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

(FROM:

East Road: Eastern Plains Camp - 2 Days from Caradon)

The day was clear and bright, with the sun shining warmly down on the eastern landes of Tenara. However, the entire setting doing little to lift Eddellyn's disposition. It was not yet mid-day and already her tunic was damp with perspiration as the dark colors sucked in the heat. With her forefinger and thumb, she pulled at the front of her shirt unsticking it from her skin and frowned. Surely it was not that much farther to the coast line? The cool breeze drawn up off the ocean would be a welcome respite to the humidity that filled the Elvana. Already she had doffed her cloak and bundled it into her pack, and for once she wished she was able to condition herself to wear less clothing.

A wry smirk accompanied the thought; Aye, that's all the people of Tenara need, to be exposed to my shining limbs….

Ahead, the road widened as she started an uphill climb – Trickster's beard! Yew have got to be kidding me - and the trees began to thin, providing less shade from the sun. As if to express her annoyance, Eddellyn kicked a rock that was in her path, sending it rolling off to the side.

"I am definitely going somewhere were there are no deserts or jungles – enough of this uncomfortable heat!"

Though she was resolved to make it to Korstun by nightfall the next day, so she did slow her pace but continued on the road. She found a small consolation in the fact that at least there were no curious travellers or pushy merchants in sight. No time would be wasted in trying to avoid them.

It did not take long to reach the top of the hill, and there Edde finally allowed herself a break. Stepping off the road into a comfortable place in the shade of a tall pine, she dropped to the ground with a sigh. As she took a deep drink from her waterskin, she could feel a faint breeze on the air and closed her eyes a minute to enjoy the sensation; it was the first time that day she felt her black mood break. Suddenly feeling reenergized, Eddellyn fished into her pack and withdrew a piece of stale bread, before she rose to her feet again.

As she nibbled on her snack and trudged down the other side of the hill, Eddellyn reflected that perhaps it was not going to be such a bad day after all. At least she was going downhill now and in the far distance she could see a glint of sun off the sea; and the sea meant she was getting closer to her destination. As she pushed herself to cover as much distance as she could that day, the elven woman reflected on the many opportunities available to her in Korstun. Not the least of which was a fine bottle of smuggled brandy.

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Monday, March 10, 2008 - 5:21 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

(FROM:

The Eastern Plains)

It was early evening by the time Lindi'iwe could make sight of the worn East Road. The air had warmed some from the early chill, but the wind that curved the grass and made rippling waves through the plains as if it were an ocean still made her cold deep in her bones. She pointed to the road. "Not far now, Izzy. Perhaps we should make a fire for the night here and then continue to the Camp tomorrow."

She paused, thoughtful, and her body shook for a moment against a sudden brush of that freezing wind. Tugging the hood over her head and pulling the cloak tighter, Lindi pranced in place for a moment to keep the warmth. "I am not afraid to travel at night, but perhaps a rest would be good. What say yew?"

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Wednesday, March 12, 2008 - 9:46 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Long since bored of counting birds she could have shot, braiding Lindi's hair, and running over heroic actions in her head, Izzy had eased into a daze. Behind her flickering lashes, she felt the rays of the sun. They pulsed hypnotically, and soon she imagined the rays to be separate lit entities dancing behind her eyelids. As they moved, something within her echoed their pattern, longing to reach out and join them...to play, to dance, to burn....

Izzy started from her daydream, her heart beating against her rib cage. Slowly working moisture back into her mouth, she jumped again as Lindi's steady voice spoke out of the cold dusk.

"Yeah, restin' would be good, what wiv' me fallin' asleep an' all while yew do all da hard work!" Izzy forced her voice to sound light and carefree. "If we've got ta set up camp we might as well do it while we can see, right? Plus, tryin' ta find a room for ya in town seems tricky when day lit, let alone when dark!"

Izzy shivered again at the thought of sleeping by the fire, and this time it had little to do with the cold...

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Thursday, March 13, 2008 - 5:30 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Lindi'iwe nodded thoughtfully, causing the wolf head covering her own to also nod quite comically. "We'll make camp here, then, and continue on tomorrow."

"There is not much wood out here for fire. We'll have to find something to work with. A pit to keep the wind out... but no, we are used to wind, are we not, Izzy? It will be a cold night," Lindi continued. She shuddered again against the chill breeze. Spring will come soon, she thought idly, but not soon enough!

"Why don't yew see if yew can find a fallen tree nearbouts and get some limbs to start a fire. I thought we passed a stump a short time ago." She turned around to look back and point in the general direction. "I'll see about catching something for dinner. If yew see any game, though, catch it if yew can."

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Thursday, March 13, 2008 - 10:08 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Shivering in the harsh winds that the tall grasses of the plains did nothing to stop, Izzy rubbed her arms reached for the bundle that contained her wolf skin coat. Eying the shadows around then warily, she donned the warm fur, grinning at how wild and powerful it must make her seem.

"Dun worry 'bout huntin' Lindi, wiv' dis big scary wolf on my head I'll just chase all them bunnies and like to yew!" Izzy's young face beamed out from under the muzzle and pointed canines of the wolf head. Quickly leaping and turning about, Izzy mock growled at the Centaur before running off into the dark, bow in one hand and a bag slung over her shoulder.

"I'll bring yew back da biggest dry logs out here too, just yew see!" The overzealous teen soon disappeared from sight, but she seemed to aim for the crunchiest patches of dying grasses as if to warn away predators and calm her mentor.

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Monday, March 17, 2008 - 8:48 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Lindi'iwe watched the girl disappear into the looming darkness then turned her attention towards the task of collecting dinner. She didn't often hunt with a bow, although she had some skill with it. She preferred chasing larger game with her spear. The likelihood of finding anything out in the open this far from the edge of the woods was unlikely, however, so she settled on bow and arrow to find some small prey for dinner.

It didn't take her long to chase down a rabbit and a few large prairie dogs. A creature of her size had to eat a lot more than a normal Uman, but Lindi also knew that Izzy's appetite was abnormally large for a Uman her size. She needed the meat for growing, Lindi imagined.

Clearing out a relatively large area of grass to make a good pit for a fire and have at least a small shelter from the wind thanks to the tall growth of the plains, Lindi settled down to skin and clean her game.

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Tuesday, March 18, 2008 - 5:11 am GMT | Edit | Link |

It was almost dark, which meant it was almost safe for Simon to come down from his tree. He couldn't remember exactly why Uklegn, a very minor noble of Caradon, was so upset with him, but he figured it was wise to exercise the better part of valor and make his exit quietly, before Uklegn could hire goons.

There was no use trying to sneak out of the city with Platon in tow, so he'd told the centauroi to meet him along the east road. Simon had stayed off the path most of the day, instead preferring to keep behind the tree line where he could easily find cover. It was slower going, but it was safer too, and when he'd heard travelers he'd made for a tree branch and hunkered down.

Leaving at night would have provided him more cover, but Platon was useless at night, and if he didn't catch up soon, Simon would have to double back.

Stupid centauroi, he thought.

Simon lowered himself to the ground as gently as he could -- which, unfortunately, wasn't as gently as he'd have liked -- picked himself up and brushed off his coat. "Don't know why I keep him around," he said to himself.

The wind picked up, scattering leaves. When the breeze settled, Simon heard something moving through the underbrush. It sounded too little to be Platon, too quick too. In the evening light he caught a glimpse of something lithe and gray.

Was that a wolf?

Simon froze, trying his best to impersonate a tree. He held his breath and wished Platon were here.

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Friday, March 21, 2008 - 9:12 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Wolves must be so warm all the time! Thought Izzy as she marched along, pausing every now and again to test the cast off branches of trees for dampness.

Izzy grabbed a stout piece of wood and swished it confidently, imagining all the ruffians and bandits she'd have to face before being presented with her own golden sword of Justice. Her well planned path into the darkness quickly became a second, barely conscious thought.

Gathering wood while on an adventure definitely had its own perks.

As the young Uman approached the tree she had planned on gathering the bulk for her fire, the wind breezed past her and stirred up the local fauna. Crouching low, Izzy watched as the small leaves and sticks twirled in a mesmerizing pattern. Chuckling to herself that she should still be amused by such things if she was to be a famous warrior, she slowly cast her failing night sight towards the tree.

Walking slowly, so as not to trip on any roots, she carefully felt with one hand on the ground for large limbs, every once and awhile testing the dirt with her newfound club.

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Saturday, March 22, 2008 - 2:55 am GMT | Edit | Link |

It wasn't a wolf, it was something worse -- a child. Simon wavered between presenting himself and continuing his impersonation. On the one hand, he didn't know who this child was or who he was with. The kid could be a scout for Uklegn's goons. Not likely, but paranoia was a virtue in Simon's book. And really, what kind of child wears wolf skins?

On the other hand, it was getting darker and colder and Platon had all the camping gear. Unless Simon wanted to find himself stumbling through the forest in the middle of the night with nothing but his coat to keep him warm, he'd need to start thinking about a camp of some kind.

Simon weighed his options as he watched the...boy...girl? Boy. Definitely. Simon watched the boy swing his make-believe sword and gather twigs. Stay or go, he thought. The child or the wild? His internal waffling continued: He could be dangerous, or annoying, or both. He probably has parents, parents with a tent and a fire and food. I can't come off as as some sort of deviant lurking in the woods. I shouldn't scare him? I need to take -- a club TO THE FOOT!

"Yee-ow!" Simon screamed as the kid's club came down on his toes. "Watch where yer going yew little--" Simon caught his tongue before it ran away with him.

"I mean, hello."

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Saturday, March 22, 2008 - 5:43 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

"GYAAAHHH!!" Izzy startled backwards, letting out a fierce howl of surprise. Hastily stepping backwards and casting a glance around the tree, she had a hard time biting down the quick words that came to her tongue.

"Why ya tryin' to look like a tree in the dark anyways! I coulda thought yew a animal and shot ya for food! Why Lindi and I, we'd nev--" Izzy shouted out, stumbling to a stop when she saw the grim look in the man's eyes. I better get back to Lindi, she'll know what to do with a stranger! Izzy thought.

Swinging her heavy stick on to a shoulder, Izzy suddenly grinned at the tall dark figure. "Yew don't have a fire do ya? I'll make up for hitting yer feet if yew'll tell me there why yew were tryin' to be a tree!"

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Saturday, March 22, 2008 - 6:17 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Lindi'iwe wasn't far away enough that she couldn't hear Izegbe's shriek of surprise. The giant centauroi woman rose from her spot on the ground with speed unthinkable for a creature of her size. She turned her head back and forth, trying to locate the direction of the sound in the darkness. "Izzy?!"

Starting forward away from her make-shift camp, she waited for a response, "Izegbe?!"

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Saturday, March 22, 2008 - 7:09 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Simon leaned against the tree and worked his boot form his foot. He grimaced as the kid yelled at him. Why couldn't it have been a wolf.

Simon rubbed his toes. "If yew had shot me, at least my pain would have been over with quickly."

He pulled his boot back on. "And no, I don't have a fire. Which is obviously why I was in the dark. And when one finds oneself alone in the woods -- as I was until yew arrived -- one tends to be cautious when one sees a..." Simon pauses, considers the boy and his stick. "Sees a formidable warrior such as yerself, brandishing a fine weapon such as that."

Simon forces a smile at the boy and looks in the direction of Lindi'iwe's voice.

"Is that yer mother calling?" Maybe they'll have food, he thinks and, this time, smiles genuinely.

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Saturday, March 22, 2008 - 9:13 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Tilting her head sideways while trying to keep from grinning more at the stranger, Izzy curtly gestured over her shoulder.

"She ain't me Mam, but she's good with food and likely worried about me since I'm supposed ta bring wood back." She blushed under her freckles, glad for the dark of night. "I better let her know I'm fine, I hollered loud enough they might've heard me in town."

Turning towards the cries of her name, Izzy shouted into the empty fields. "I'm fine! Comin' back wiv' company!"

Turning back around to her victim, Izzy motioned forward. "I hope yew don't mind sharing camp, least I can do for ...scarin' ya." With a chuckle, she ambles off back the way she came.

Night oughta be interesting... Izzy thought to herself, wondering what Lindi would say to her...

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Sunday, March 23, 2008 - 5:23 am GMT | Edit | Link |

"Yes, yes. By all means lead on," Simon said as he cast a nervous glance over his shoulder. Surely the child wouldn't have been heard all the way back in town.

"Lead on, my warrior wofling. Lead on."

But still better to be safe.

Simon placed a hand on the boy's back and urged him forward as he followed him back to his camp.

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Tuesday, March 25, 2008 - 5:32 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Lindi'iwe looked out into the dark, but her eyes were not made for seeing in the pitch-black of the plains. It was why her people travelled during the day, after all. She hoped to see a rustle of grass or hear the sound of Izzy bounding towards her, but no luck. The term "company" might bode well for the young girl, but Lindi was not the type to just go trust a stranger.

She moved through the tall grass towards the sound of the girl's voice, every nerve on alert.

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Tuesday, March 25, 2008 - 9:29 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Hoping that Lindi had heard her and had calmed a bit, Izzy trounced off through the brush. At first she tried to act completely natural, remembering that she would have to run into many more strangers on the course of the trip. However,the darkness soon got the better of her, tangling her feet in hidden dips and large rocks. Cursing quietly to herself, Izzy spent the rest of the walk back staring at her toes, willing them to avoid more bruising.

As she turned to see if her companion still followed, she suddenly walked straight into the warm flank of Lindi, biting her tongue down on what she was about to say.

"Lindi! I uh...got firewood and somethin' to cook!" Izzy said quickly, hoping her sarcastic tone only reached the fine hearing of her mentor.

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 4:14 am GMT | Edit | Link |

Simon watched his guide rush off into the night. It was dark, but not dark enough for Simon to mistake a centauroi silhouette. "Platon, yew smelly bastard! What took yew so long to find me?"

Simon slapped the centauroi on a flank. "I see yew've met my little warrior here, and...Platon, did yew get bigger? Where'd yew get that wolf cloak? It looks a lot like the little fellow's...and...yer not Platon are yew?"

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 4:39 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Lindi'iwe's eyes narrowed and her hand tightened dangerously around her spear. She planted her hooves firmly in a ready stance and looked over the man's head to meet Izzy's eyes in the darkness. She spoke softly in her native tongue, her rich voice rumbling into the night. "Izzy, what is the Uman saying? He speaks too fast for me to follow. Yew know my grasp of the common tongue is poor."

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 6:06 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Izzy giggled, trying to decide on truth or something a bit more resembling an appropriate greeting.

Speaking carefully in Centauroi, Izzy watched the man's eyes to see if he understood the rumblings between his two dinner guests. "He thought ya were someone else, someone smaller...and smellier? I'm guessin' there be another o' yew named Platon somewheres."

Without missing a beat, Izzy turned to the not so successful horse whisperer. Resuming the ever enjoyable launguage of her guest, she explained the situation. "This is Lindi, she's not so good with fast Uman talk. But if yew touch her flank like that, she's like to kick. She's also not very smelly."

Grinning back and forth at both larger figures, Izzy thought to herself. Where and who this Platon fellow? I wonder if he likes pretending to be a tree too?

By Platon the Tale Collector (Platon)

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 9:07 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Platon enjoyed the feeling of dirt against hoof as he walked down the East Road, caught up in the improvisational melody that he was playing on his syrinx. His hoofsteps fell on the quarter beat, and had he been playing a faster tune, he likely would have found Simon already; however, he was one to let the music set the pace, not the other way around.

As he continued searching for Simon, his mind mused in harmony with the music. Where did Simon wish to meet? What trouble has the Uman found today? I am certain fortune will reunite us soon, though the night grows dark, and my hooves weary. At least the song will guide him to me, should he hear it before slumber overcomes him or- Platon's song was interrupted by a great yawn, the break in the music halting his walking and his thoughts until he once again resumed playing.

Slowly the centauroi plodded into the cold night, his thoughts on Simon and slumber.

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Thursday, March 27, 2008 - 4:51 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

"I see," Simon said to Izzy. "Of course she isn't smelly at all. Clear case of mistaken identity, I'm sure."

He turned to Lindi'iwe and spoke in a loud, slow tone. "So. Sorry. About. The. Mistake. My. Apologies. I. Thought. Yew. Were. Someone. Else." He smiled wide to show he was a sophisticated, culturally tolerant individual who was quite used to dealing with slow-witted foreigners.

Simon turned back towards Izzy and attempted to adopt the other Uman's speech patterns. "I didn't know yew traveled with a centauroi too. Why didn't yew say nothin'? Geeze, Platon's out there all alone now, and yew didn't even tell me we had another o'his kind around.

"Platon's a big lug and liable to get sleepy this far inta dark." If he's around at all, Simon thought to himself. "So keep yer ears out for 'im. He's either playing his dang pipes or snoring up sumthin' awful."

Then, back to the centauroi. "Do. Yew. Have. Anything. To. Eat. Perchance?"

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Thursday, March 27, 2008 - 5:11 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

After thinking for a moment, Lindi'iwe relaxed her stance, but she continued to stare down with a steely glint in her eye. Her voice was clear and soft as she spoke in the common tongue, although the accent was thick. It was not an unpleasant sound, hearing her speak such in her rich voice. "I am not... how yew say... fool, Uman. I understand yew. Speak fast makes hard for me, though. Please not do it now."

She turned away from the two of them to the road, although it was obvious from her stance that she was keeping Simon well in kicking distance in case the need arose. "Bird sounds coming from road. Music, thinks this one. What yew think, Izzy?"

A frown creased her face and she reverted back to Centaroi. "I do not like their language, Izzy. It is harder to speak to this one than the traders at the camp."

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Thursday, March 27, 2008 - 6:43 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Head tilting from Uman to Centaur to follow the conversation, Izzy could barely keep a grin from slipping onto her face.

"I don't know, I like it pretty well enough." Izzy murmured, suddenly sure that she heard something making pleasant noises in the distance as well. "We should go get that music man and bring him here! He might make things smell funny, but sounds like that are worth it!" Izzy flashed a grin at the Uman guest. "Plus we wouldn't want 'im to freeze when we'll have such a nice fire goin' soon, right Lindi?"

"Oh, and of course we'll have food, but we're like to need somethin' to cook wiv'..." Izzy rambled on as she cleared out some dirt staring dreamily into the night.

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Friday, March 28, 2008 - 6:13 am GMT | Edit | Link |

"Yew don't have anything to..." Simon sighed. His hunger was winning out over any desire to punish Platon for making him wait alone in the woods for so long. "Right then," he said, still trying to speak like Izzy. "We'll go on out an' find me friend while...Lindi...here gets the fire ready and wot not."

Turning to the female centauroi he spoke, still slowly but not as coarsely. "We'll be right back with my friend. The boy will be safe with me. Don't worry."

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Friday, March 28, 2008 - 4:48 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Lindi'iwe looked thoughtful at this. She wasn't sure that she wanted Izzy running off with some unknown Uman, but she also knew that the child was wanting to prove herself and seek adventure. Perhaps for the moment it would be best to let the Uman assume that Izegbe was a boy. Then he would not want to do the things she had seen other men do to girls Izzy's size at the Eastern Trade Camp. "Take child with yew then. Be quick. I start fire, wood dry."

In Centaroi, she spoke firmly to the girl. "Yew will not be far, Izzy. The man does not seem to look to do us harm, and yew know how to defend yerself. Do not be afraid to call me if anything unusual happens."

With that, she turned back and walked towards the pit she had cleared out, her arms full with the wood Izzy had collected. Dutifully, Lindi'iwe began putting them together and preparing a fire and rifling through the packs attacked to her in search of cooking utensils.

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Friday, March 28, 2008 - 5:26 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Starting from her reverie, Izzy ambled back over towards the Uman, sparing a glance over her shoulder back to Lindi. When the man referred to her as a boy, she suppressed a grin. It wasn't the first time that she had been mistaken by other Umans and from what she'd seen the couple times she had been in town, it was more freeing to be labeled a boy. All the girls she had run into were either serving at the inn or had to stay indoors rather than run through town causing trouble like the boys were allowed to do.

Hearing Lindi's reluctant assent, Izzy swiftly turned on her heel and ran to grab her bow and quiver. "Don't worry 'bout me Lindi, I found this fellow by hittin' him. I think we're off to a good understandin'." Izzy shot back in Centauroi, bemused as always that her watchful mentor voiced such concerns.

Pulling the wolf pelt further around her shoulders to keep the growing chill from setting in, she nodded to the Uman. "Let's go get yer friend. Hey, what do I call ya anyways? I know some Centaur's name I never met, but yew still haven't said yer own!"

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Saturday, March 29, 2008 - 5:45 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

"Simon Belaqhuist, friend of centauroi, traveler extraordinaire, part-time barker, full time adventurer, and expert procurer of rare books and hidden items." He gave bow, a flourish, and flashed white teeth in the darkening night. "At yer service, my wolfish warrior and his charming centauroi companion."

He stood up and adjusted the collar of his top coat. "But yew may call me Simon. Now, which way towards the wondrous woodwind workings of my wandering friend?"

Simon cast around the clearing, trying to hone in on Platon's music. The boy's ears were obviously sharper than his own.

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Monday, March 31, 2008 - 5:00 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

I need a bunch o' titles like that if I'm ever to be a real, memorable hero! Although, I'd have to replace baker wiv' somethin'... Izzy thought to herself.

Turning her gaze and hearing out to the plains, she listened intently. Was that a bird? That type doesn't sound local....or like a night bird. Or particularly high pitched. Wait. Was that thumping?

"I think I hear him tha' way!" The young girl pulled her skins off her head, attempting to catch the sound better. "Yeah, there's certainly somethin' out there singing, and it isn't a bird I've ever heard out here singin' at night. Plus, it seems to be thumpin' away on a drum or some such."

Running towards the sound, crouched low among the weeds, Izzy stopped to pull up her wolf hood and turned to beckon Simon towards her.

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Tuesday, April 1, 2008 - 3:09 am GMT | Edit | Link |

Simon trailed after the youth. He simply couldn't muster the same sort of enthusiasm. Of course, this was all new to the boy, so why shouldn't he be excited. Probably his first time away from the... Simon cut off his own thoughts. Where was this boy from and why was he traveling with a Centauroi who was not, as far as Simon could tell, the boy's mother?

How did he speak the horse people's language with such ease?

Where were these two headed anyway?

Simon filed the questions away for later. If anyone could get the answers out of the child, it was Platon. Children love that smelly old mule, he thought to himself.

He caught up with Izzy, and now, he too could hear the sound of his friend's music. It wouldn't be far now, just over the next rise and through the clump of trees. Still, it was rather dark.

Simon's hands crept back to the hilt of the daggers hidden beneath his top coat, not willing to relax until he was reunited with Platon and back by a fire and food.

By Platon the Tale Collector (Platon)

Tuesday, April 1, 2008 - 11:08 am GMT | Edit | Link |

Platon's music slowed and softened as the night grew darker, and the centauroi did his best to stave off sleep. However, it was already past when he should be asleep, and his body's demands were getting harder to resist. He finally decided to rest and continue searching tomorrow when two forms approached from the darkness.

He squinted through already heavy lids, trying to discern who these newcomers were, but the darkness was difficult for him. It looked like two umans, perhaps a child and parent. "Hello," he called out, tucking the pipes in a satchel on his side, "and good even-" The centauroi's relaxed words were cut off by a large yawn, his thick arms stretching over his head.

"Good evening, neighbors," he tried again after the yawn. "Have yew seen a Simon walk through here? I have sought one all evening, but I have not found any." He smiled kindly at the two travelers even as the haze of sleep thickened about him.

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Tuesday, April 1, 2008 - 3:25 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Simon relaxed his grip on the daggers.

He squinted, catching the last of the dying light, and made sure it was Platon this time and not another centauroi. Seeing the yawn sealed his certainty.

"All right, ya big sod. Wake up." Simon headed over to the centauroi and prodded him awake. His tone wasn't harsh, despite the words, and while his poking was insistent it wasn't painful. "Come on, then. Food and a fire near by. Friends too."

Simon didn't add hopefully, but he thought it nonetheless.

He turned to Izzy. "The lug is useless after dark. Falls asleep fastern' anyone yew've met." Turning back to Platon. "I'd trade him in for a better model if I thought anyone would take 'im." Again, his voice took on the tone of a familiar joke rather than an actual insult.

By Platon the Tale Collector (Platon)

Tuesday, April 1, 2008 - 3:31 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Platon stretched his arms in another big yawn at the poking, mumbling sleepily and nonsensically, "I cannot wake up yet. I have to find my Simon." Despite his objection, Platon took a step toward Simon, ready to follow the Uman in his nearly-asleep daze.

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Tuesday, April 1, 2008 - 5:47 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

While Izegbe and her wayward companion stealthed off into the brush, Lindi'iwe got started on much more pracitcal tasks. She put the wood together in the center of her little clearing after digging a small pit for it to make it safer. Taking flint and tinder from one of the packs wrapped around her body, she easily lit the fire with a bit of grass for kindling. For the most part, the sticks that Izzy had acquired were dry and held the flame well, although it was obvious that they were going to need more than just what the girl's arms could carry to keep them warm throughout the night. Lindi'iwe figured that their new "companions" could help aid in keeping the fire going... if they wanted to sleep near it, that was.

She didn't have much in the way of cooking utensils, but she did have a make-shift spit to roast the rabbits on in one of her packs. There were many inventive young Centaur in her tribe and since they were always on the move, anything easily packed and carried was a blessing. Lindi'iwe had requested they make one for her some years ago. It was, after all, easier than trying to find conveniently shaped sticks.

She rested on her haunches, idly waiting for Izegbe to return with a mixture of anticipation and worry.

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Tuesday, April 1, 2008 - 10:27 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

"Yew must keep walkin' Platon. There's a fire likely and food, and this Simon guy to watch out for!" Izzy spoke loudly and calmly, trying to keep the Centaur from slipping into slumber completely. If he starts sleepin', who knows where he'll land! He may not be as big as Lindi, but that's big enough!

"I'll run ahead to make sure and find him a place ta fall ov-- fall asleep at..." Izzy said, heading quickly towards the growing orange blaze she assumed was Lindi's.

Slowing to a regular pace once she was safely ahead of the ambling man and his semi-conscious friend, Izzy mused idly to herself. I never saw many Umans, let alone another Uman that kept company wiv' a Centaur...He is awful nice, maybe we're just lucky to meet good strangers instead of those others I heard about...

Slowing her pace again, Izzy stood still and waited for Simon to catch up. If he's Simon's friend, I'm sure he wouldn't fall on me. Izzy grinned, no longer concerned but rather amused by the image in her head.

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Wednesday, April 2, 2008 - 4:52 am GMT | Edit | Link |

Simon struggled to keep Platon awake. Several times he was afraid the centauroi would topple on top of him. Wouldn't be the first time.

He grunted and hobbled along, trying to keep up with Izzy in the growing dark. Luckily, he saw the light from Lindi'iwe's small fire and could smell the cooking meat.

Curse the day, I'll follow my stomach.

"Come on, my friend. We're almost there." Simon couldn't bring himself to chastise his friend any more. The promise of food and a fire was too much.

Simon walked into the clearing with the centauroi and the child. "We have returned, victorious, on our mission m'lady." He spoke quickly for Izzy's amusement. Then, for Lindi'iwe's benefit, he added. "We're back."

By Platon the Tale Collector (Platon)

Friday, April 4, 2008 - 8:27 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Platon stumbled into the camp with the longest yawn yet, somehow managing to keep from tripping over the four hooves beneath him. Patting the Uman who led him here, Platon glanced around the campsite with eyes barely open, mumbled something incoherent in his sleep-stricken state, and promptly laid down. It took but a moment before his breathing softened into the peaceful respiration of slumber.

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Sunday, April 6, 2008 - 7:27 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Simon dug through the pack on Platon's back and extracted a horse-sized blanket. He threw this across his friend's shoulders before turning to Lindi'iwe and pointing at the pile of firewood.

"That's not going to be enough." His tone was softer now that Platon was here. In fact, everything about Simon seemed softer: the way he spoke, moved, stood in his skin.

He picked a good sized branch from the pile and used it as a makeshift torch. "I'll gather some more before dinner's done."

And with that, he left to gather firewood.

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Monday, April 7, 2008 - 5:39 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Lindi'iwe nodded at the Uman and then turned to fix her gaze on Izegbe and the other Centauroi. She spoke in her own language as Simon trundled off rather than trying to disect it into the common tongue. "It seems this one will not even be able to introduce himself. It is not smart to wear yerself down by nightfall. One should pace oneself."

She nodded solemnly then turned the rabbit on the spit. It was beginning to turn the darkened color to signify that it would finish cooking soon. "We will share this evenly and I will cook the rest over the night to store as we continue towards town."

Wrinkling her nose, Lindi snorted, a horse-like sound. "The food at the trading camp is disgusting."

By Izegbe "Izzy" (Melbonia)

Saturday, April 12, 2008 - 7:52 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Looking down at the large slumbering figure, Izzy yawned. Shrugging her wolf pelt around her shoulders, she turned back to the warm glow.

Kicking some dry grass into the fire pit idly, Izzy looked up at her mentor. "Why is their food gross? Do they no' cook it right or is it just borin'?" Pursing her lips, she rambled on. "I like most of wha' the Umans serve, its diffren'." Izz licked her lips. "No' tha' yer cookin' isn't yummy or nothin'."

Gazing off in the direction Simon had trudged off in, Izzy's stomach growled ominously. If he takes too long gettin' more wood, he might no' have food to come back to! Izzy thought to herself.

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Sunday, April 13, 2008 - 7:10 am GMT | Edit | Link |

Searching for wood by torchlight was not Simon's idea of fun. He had to squint, and several times he mistook things he really would rather not touch for good sized branches. But it had been a dry couple of days and he gathered a good pile quickly.

Simon dropped off his armload then went out five more times. He'd purposefully not learned much about camping during his time traveling with Platon, but he knew that the moment yew thought yew had enough firewood, yew needed five times as much to get yew through the night.

He used the time alone to arrange his thoughts. He didn't have any jobs lined up, and he had several, shall we say, "displeased" clients scattered about this part of the worlde. Some traveling would probably do him some good.

Simon didn't know how many men Uklegn had looking for him though, and they'd either be looking for a lone Uman traveler, or a Uman traveling with a centauroi. But two Umans, traveling with two centauroi, that was too bizarre to draw the wrong attention.

When Simon returned with his final armload, he smelt the roasted rabbit and felt his stomach turn over. Sitting by the fire he turned to his new companions. "So, where are yew headed?" He asked.

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Monday, April 14, 2008 - 7:03 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Lindi'iwe looked at Simon for a long time before she forged her reply. "We go to Trade Camp. Then on to..."

She paused roughly, not able to think of the right word in the common tongue. "Big lake. Cross it by boat."

Pulling the spit apart, she skewered another rabbit and put it up, then hunkered deeper into her wolfskin cloak, a frown on her face. "Long travels. I not look forward to it."

By Simon Belaqhuist (Simon)

Friday, April 18, 2008 - 5:04 am GMT | Edit | Link |

Long travels, Simon thought. "Heh," he said. "Yew ever been much past the trading camp? Couple travelers like yew two, the bigger cities will eat yew up. Now, my friend and I are experienced in city life, and in getting from on city to t'other."

Simon pulled a bit of rabbit off the stick with tender fingers, blew on it and plopped the meat into his mouth.

"How 'bout we go with yew a while? We can be yer guides and repay yew for yer hospitality." Simon smiled, and in the fire light it could be an honest smile, or...

"The roads are safer when yew travel in groups, and yew and the boy would be safer with Platon and me."

By Lindi'iwe of the Plains (Lindi)

Saturday, April 19, 2008 - 5:32 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Lindi looked towards Izzy for her thoughts. She wasn't sure about the two of them, but guides that knew the language better than her seemed like a good idea, and having another centaur along, even though all she really knew about him was his name, was a comforting feeling.

"What think yew, Izzy?"

By Anonymous

Sunday, July 26, 2009 - 12:01 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

Fyne mused that question as he turned his horse onto the Eastern Road.

"Money is in it for me....I reckon yew are worth more alive than dead."

The black horse yanked its head round to try and bite at his rider's leg and received a boot to the mouth for its trouble and Fyne tightened the reins in his grasp.

"Mad beast....it's the knackers yard for yew when we get back...."He cursed at the animal.

"Tal is a prize....yew are the bonus!" He grinned to the one he now mused on as Chicken Man.

By Dantanium (Dantan)

Sunday, July 26, 2009 - 2:35 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

'Money' Dantanium thought for a moment 'though i feel yer employer has more interests, more personal interests here than a simple mis-be-gotten venture' he was struggling with the horse but knew that to keep up with the man he must endure.

'There there' he cooed at the mare, imparting a great deal of his magik into the beasts thick head.
'calm yerself, at this end of this yew will suffer no further rider, this i promise yew' the horse calmed in a flash, trotting content to a breast of Fyne.

'Well then, lead on if yew must' Dantanium commanded.

By Anonymous

Monday, July 27, 2009 - 6:35 am GMT | Edit | Link |

Fyne glanced over at the man, who seemed to have gotten a better rein on his horse now.

"Don't care about Richelon's personal interests in Falorian...if he wants to play daddy to that thieving little piece of sewer scum that's his lookout!"

Fyne smiled thinly and looked ahead.

"Not the sort of game I'd want to play though...not when he is peeved off like he is...Talan is going to get it...get it good...Richelon is like that...and he'll do it under the banner of teaching him a lesson...guiding him."

By Dantanium (Dantan)

Wednesday, July 29, 2009 - 2:42 pm GMT | Edit | Link |

'It seems all those involved in Talan's life want to see him harmed, though for my part i will aid him in this need' Dantanium insisted, keeping his eyes firmly on the older man. This was going to be a long journey with little cheer, he bucked at the old mare.

'The quiker we get there the quicker i get off' he whispered in her ear 'then i shall free yew', the old horse took off at a heavy pace.

By Anonymous

Tuesday, August 25, 2009 - 6:35 am GMT | Edit | Link |

Fyne had rode out from the camp almost immediately after he had woke. The black horse was in its usual foul temper and had snapped at the man as he had saddled him and received a punch in it's mouth for its trouble. He rode leading Moore's grey stallion and glanced behind for the other man.

"I want to make some time today...can yew stay aloft if we set a gallop for a while?" He called testily.

By Anonymous

Friday, August 28, 2009 - 7:52 am GMT | Edit | Link |

Fyne set his horse at a good gallop along the road with the grey stallion in tow behind him. He disliked Caradon and wanted to be far from there as soon as he could. He had once been of Caradon, a baker's son, but that was a lifetime ago, now he worked for Mr Richelon and he enjoyed his work.

He knew they were nearing the second encampment and he slowled his animal to a walk and called back to the other.

"Yew happy to go on...or does yer arse hurt too much?"

By Dantanium (Dantan)

Friday, August 28, 2009 - 9:32 am GMT | Edit | Link |

'Go on' Dantanium shouted over the noise of hoof, his back ached, his thighs chaffed like hell.

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