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Bitterness Overcome: (Now A Completed Story!)
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<blockquote data-quote="Nonlethal Force" data-source="post: 3183353" data-attributes="member: 35788"><p>Inside the cavern underneath the Tongra-Quehalost Mountains, Charis, Rhema, and Xando were easily able to load up the most significant supplies with the people and move off in the direction of the main underground chamber. The plan was to turn to another cavern that was large enough to hold the small community for a good amount of time. They were packed and well on their way before the dragon appeared at the tunnel entrance. Even with his ability to see in the vast underground darkness they were well out of range. Frustrated by a lack of ability to either see their movements or follow them into the smaller cave entrance the dragon father attempted to use his innate magical ability to locate the villagers underground. He found that effort equally unfruitful. The villagers had escaped his grasp for now.</p><p></p><p>The great wyrm smiled grimly and continued to talk to himself as he boiled internally from his anger. <span style="color: Red">“I will wait them out as before. The last time they fled my presence they could not manage a few days underground by themselves before they realized that they needed my protection. They will return. Once I have collected them all they will feel my wrath.”</span></p><p></p><p>The dragon was unaware that the ghostly figure looked on from the edge of the forest. In truth, the ghostly figure was impressed at the dragon’s ability to show composure. Red dragons were known much more for their fury and explosive wrath than they were for their patience. It was this quality of impulsive wrath that the party had used against the dragon earlier to draw his attention away from the Provenience and the rest of the villagers. Now, the dragon demonstrated great patience by not erupting into an immediate and vengeful wrath.</p><p></p><p>The wyrm unfurled his wings once more and took to the sky. Although the Tongra-Quehalost Mountains were high, they were not so tall as to keep a dragon from being able to fly over them. There were the occasional mountain peaks that stretched up into the sky which were tall enough to prevent flight over them on account of the air being too thin. Only the cold-loving white dragons could survive in such conditions for very long. These white dragons did not fly in the higher altitudes. They were forced to the ground by the thinness of the air. </p><p></p><p>This was not such a location, however. The red wyrm had no trouble launching himself off of the ground. Once he was into the air again, he found a mountainous pass that was low enough for him to fly to the other side. Of course, the dragon knew that he dare not stay too long on the Tongra side of the mountains. The southern reaches of Tongra were well known for their clusters of green dragons. Few of these dragons would appreciate the intrusion of a single dominant red wyrm into their land. Should he stay too long, the red wyrm would likely be forced back anyway. </p><p></p><p>However, he was able to find a small perch atop the mountains that would allow him to occasionally view the Tongra side without intruding too close upon the territories of the green dragons. The greens would not be too willing to challenge him in the mountain passes. They were much more comfortable in the forests and fighting upon land than taking to the thinner air of the mountains. From this perch he could watch the Tongra side of the mountain range and quickly fly back to the Quehalost side of the mountain range to observe the southern entrance to the underground tunnels that the villagers had used. It was the perfect location to insure that the villagers did not move without his notice.</p><p></p><p>Back inside the underground tunnels, Rhema lead Charis and the rest of the village further into the depths of the mountain until she had found the chamber that she was looking for. Ischarus had managed to verbally coach Charis in finding the way to the grand chamber, although Rhema did not need Charis’ help along the way very often. This was the same chamber that Ischarus and Rhema typically used as a stopover point when they came into Quehalost. </p><p></p><p>The chamber was easily defensible and had seldom been a place of confrontation as they used it to camp. Ischarus had not been sure if it was far from any underground civilizations or if they had simply been lucky. In either regard, it was the most likely candidate as a place to keep the villagers safe until Ischarus had found a way to deal with the red wyrm and his wrath.</p><p></p><p>The chamber was the better part of a day’s journey underground and Rhema only made a few wrong turns as they moved. Fortunately, Rhema had Charis to draw upon and quickly realized that they had made an error in traversing the dark tunnels. In spite of the long journey the trip was worth it to be free of the dragon father and his magical influences. With the help of the villagers’ able and willing backs the group was able to bring a majority of the necessary supplies needed to last until the time when Ischarus should return. Once they were set up within the main chamber, Charis and Xando could lead a small group back to the storage chamber in order to gather up the remainder of supplies. It would take several trips, but there was no need to rush.</p><p></p><p>Thankfully, there were several reliable sources for drinking water within the mountain passages themselves. Many of these water sources were near the main underground chamber. None of the sources could be depended upon for great quantities of water. So long as the people were not greedy, they could stave off illness, and everyone was willing to ration the supplies the availability of water would not be a problem. One thing could be said about the availability of water around them. This deep in the mountains the water could be counted on to be both pure and cold.</p><p></p><p>Charis and Rhema both knew the water supply issue was actually a benefit rather than a problem. If they were going to be underground for even so long as a month, people would need jobs to do so that they could avoid even the slightest psychological disorder. It would be hard enough to stay underground and buried from the light of the sun for such a long time without going insane. If they could find enough tasks for the villagers to accomplish each and every day it would give them a sense of purpose and the ability to mark off time. Unfortunately with Semeion’s absence it meant that providing light to accomplish these tasks would be more difficult than expected. His magical ability to make light out of darkness would be sorely missed.</p><p></p><p>Once they arrived, Charis and Rhema gathered together with Druff and Xando to begin to set up the new underground village. Charis looked to Druff and smiled. He was clearly tired from the journey, but as the day moved on he found he could walk more and more and be carried less. His body was still frail but it was welcoming the ability to stretch out and keep from being hunched up. </p><p></p><p>Charis decided to address her old friend first. <span style="color: Orange">“Druff, old friend. You had protected both the village and me for so long before my new friends came and took me away to teach me in the ways of light. Will you do the honor of helping me establish an order among the people as they set up camp so that the defense of this place will be easier? It will need a fair amount of organization to accomplish such a task.”</span></p><p></p><p>Instantly Druff appeared to stand taller and regain the pride in his duty that Charis had remembered. He replied, <span style="color: Lime">“Indeed I can, Charis. It would be my honor to once again serve the people.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema looked to Xando and also smiled. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Well, I suppose that leaves you and me to organize the supplies and gather the people into various work crews. Is there any particular preference as to which job you would like, Xando?”</span></p><p></p><p>The tribal leader nodded and spoke with confidence. <span style="color: Lime">“The people are more comfortable taking orders from me that you, simply because the trust is already established within my leadership. Why don’t I organize the people into various work crews? You deal with organizing and rationing the supplies. The people will see the necessity of that task and accept your authority in that matter. I am still the guide for these people, but you are the leader of this place.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema nodded in approval and replied. <span style="color: Lime">“Sounds like as good of a plan as any, Xando.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis turned away from Druff and looked to Rhema and Xando. <span style="color: Lime">“Where are you planning on storing the supplies? If we know that then Druff and I can direct the people to you as we go about advising the people on how to establish this temporary village.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema pointed to a small outcropping of rock above a smaller alcove off of the main chamber. This was that customary sleeping area they used on the prior raids into and out of Quehalost. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Direct the people toward that small outcropping of rock. Just underneath is the small cave where we used to sleep. It is protected on all sides and is a safe place to ensure our food stores are protected from any threat.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis nodded and turned back to Druff. <span style="color: Orange">“Shall we, then? The people will no doubt be getting anxious soon.”</span></p><p></p><p>Duff nodded and began to walk the perimeter of the main chamber. As he turned he spoke to Charis who walked beside him. <span style="color: Lime">“They are tired after such a long and strenuous journey underground.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis nodded. <span style="color: Orange">“We all are, Druff. We all are. I think that most people will take the advice on where to set up camp with welcome. At least down here in the caves we need not fear the elements of weather nor fear it becoming too cold or too hot.”</span></p><p></p><p>Druff replied as he smiled. <span style="color: Lime">“Yeah. Our biggest concerns will be light, water, and the occasional defense. I’ve been thinking of asking for mandatory enlistment in defense classes. If nothing else, it would give the people something to do while they were underground. Perhaps Rhema could teach some of them her magic?”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis approved. <span style="color: Orange">“Probably a wise precaution. Rhema’s magic comes from her mind, however. Her magic is not the same as Semeion’s or even our dragon father’s. I do not know if it can even be taught.”</span></p><p></p><p>As the pair of Drakontai spoke, Xando and Rhema took up residence in the alcove at the rear of the cave. Xando continued their discussion as Charis and Druff left. <span style="color: Lime">“I suppose what I will need from you is a list of the duties that will be necessary for our survival. Once I have those duties I can organize the people into teams and perhaps even shifts. I suppose night and daytime will blur together underground?”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema looked to Xando at the thought. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Probably. I suppose that means we should start by suggesting people vary their sleeping times. If the people can shift their sleeping times we could guarantee that work is being accomplished and the defense of the chamber is ensured throughout the whole day.”</span></p><p></p><p>As Xando nodded in agreement she continued, <span style="color: PaleGreen">“As for duties, I can think of three urgent needs that will begin once we have established camp. Defense, water collection, and the occasional ride towards the storage cave to pick up another gathering of wood and other supplies that we left behind. I imagine that there are mushrooms and other fungus that could be gathered to supplement the dried and cured food that we stored. Each of the water and food teams that we send out should have a defense team with them as well. We should not make a habit of traveling light in the tunnels. Numbers will provide our biggest advantage.”</span></p><p></p><p>Xando listened intently and began formulating a list in his mind. He was already dividing up the villagers into a duty roster. The needs were simple in this temporary underground environment, but each job was vital to their survival. As Druff and Charis made their rounds, slowly the people began to trickle in to deposit their supplies and receive their orders from Xando. The emergency village was beginning to take shape.</p><p></p><p>[Sblock=Color-Free Speech Section]</p><p>Inside the cavern underneath the Tongra-Quehalost Mountains, Charis, Rhema, and Xando were easily able to load up the most significant supplies with the people and move off in the direction of the main underground chamber. The plan was to turn to another cavern that was large enough to hold the small community for a good amount of time. They were packed and well on their way before the dragon appeared at the tunnel entrance. Even with his ability to see in the vast underground darkness they were well out of range. Frustrated by a lack of ability to either see their movements or follow them into the smaller cave entrance the dragon father attempted to use his innate magical ability to locate the villagers underground. He found that effort equally unfruitful. The villagers had escaped his grasp for now.</p><p></p><p>The great wyrm smiled grimly and continued to talk to himself as he boiled internally from his anger. “I will wait them out as before. The last time they fled my presence they could not manage a few days underground by themselves before they realized that they needed my protection. They will return. Once I have collected them all they will feel my wrath.”</p><p></p><p>The dragon was unaware that the ghostly figure looked on from the edge of the forest. In truth, the ghostly figure was impressed at the dragon’s ability to show composure. Red dragons were known much more for their fury and explosive wrath than they were for their patience. It was this quality of impulsive wrath that the party had used against the dragon earlier to draw his attention away from the Provenience and the rest of the villagers. Now, the dragon demonstrated great patience by not erupting into an immediate and vengeful wrath.</p><p></p><p>The wyrm unfurled his wings once more and took to the sky. Although the Tongra-Quehalost Mountains were high, they were not so tall as to keep a dragon from being able to fly over them. There were the occasional mountain peaks that stretched up into the sky which were tall enough to prevent flight over them on account of the air being too thin. Only the cold-loving white dragons could survive in such conditions for very long. These white dragons did not fly in the higher altitudes. They were forced to the ground by the thinness of the air. </p><p></p><p>This was not such a location, however. The red wyrm had no trouble launching himself off of the ground. Once he was into the air again, he found a mountainous pass that was low enough for him to fly to the other side. Of course, the dragon knew that he dare not stay too long on the Tongra side of the mountains. The southern reaches of Tongra were well known for their clusters of green dragons. Few of these dragons would appreciate the intrusion of a single dominant red wyrm into their land. Should he stay too long, the red wyrm would likely be forced back anyway. </p><p></p><p>However, he was able to find a small perch atop the mountains that would allow him to occasionally view the Tongra side without intruding too close upon the territories of the green dragons. The greens would not be too willing to challenge him in the mountain passes. They were much more comfortable in the forests and fighting upon land than taking to the thinner air of the mountains. From this perch he could watch the Tongra side of the mountain range and quickly fly back to the Quehalost side of the mountain range to observe the southern entrance to the underground tunnels that the villagers had used. It was the perfect location to insure that the villagers did not move without his notice.</p><p></p><p>Back inside the underground tunnels, Rhema lead Charis and the rest of the village further into the depths of the mountain until she had found the chamber that she was looking for. Ischarus had managed to verbally coach Charis in finding the way to the grand chamber, although Rhema did not need Charis’ help along the way very often. This was the same chamber that Ischarus and Rhema typically used as a stopover point when they came into Quehalost. </p><p></p><p>The chamber was easily defensible and had seldom been a place of confrontation as they used it to camp. Ischarus had not been sure if it was far from any underground civilizations or if they had simply been lucky. In either regard, it was the most likely candidate as a place to keep the villagers safe until Ischarus had found a way to deal with the red wyrm and his wrath.</p><p></p><p>The chamber was the better part of a day’s journey underground and Rhema only made a few wrong turns as they moved. Fortunately, Rhema had Charis to draw upon and quickly realized that they had made an error in traversing the dark tunnels. In spite of the long journey the trip was worth it to be free of the dragon father and his magical influences. With the help of the villagers’ able and willing backs the group was able to bring a majority of the necessary supplies needed to last until the time when Ischarus should return. Once they were set up within the main chamber, Charis and Xando could lead a small group back to the storage chamber in order to gather up the remainder of supplies. It would take several trips, but there was no need to rush.</p><p></p><p>Thankfully, there were several reliable sources for drinking water within the mountain passages themselves. Many of these water sources were near the main underground chamber. None of the sources could be depended upon for great quantities of water. So long as the people were not greedy, they could stave off illness, and everyone was willing to ration the supplies the availability of water would not be a problem. One thing could be said about the availability of water around them. This deep in the mountains the water could be counted on to be both pure and cold.</p><p></p><p>Charis and Rhema both knew the water supply issue was actually a benefit rather than a problem. If they were going to be underground for even so long as a month, people would need jobs to do so that they could avoid even the slightest psychological disorder. It would be hard enough to stay underground and buried from the light of the sun for such a long time without going insane. If they could find enough tasks for the villagers to accomplish each and every day it would give them a sense of purpose and the ability to mark off time. Unfortunately with Semeion’s absence it meant that providing light to accomplish these tasks would be more difficult than expected. His magical ability to make light out of darkness would be sorely missed.</p><p></p><p>Once they arrived, Charis and Rhema gathered together with Druff and Xando to begin to set up the new underground village. Charis looked to Druff and smiled. He was clearly tired from the journey, but as the day moved on he found he could walk more and more and be carried less. His body was still frail but it was welcoming the ability to stretch out and keep from being hunched up. </p><p></p><p>Charis decided to address her old friend first. “Druff, old friend. You had protected both the village and me for so long before my new friends came and took me away to teach me in the ways of light. Will you do the honor of helping me establish an order among the people as they set up camp so that the defense of this place will be easier? It will need a fair amount of organization to accomplish such a task.”</p><p></p><p>Instantly Druff appeared to stand taller and regain the pride in his duty that Charis had remembered. He replied, “Indeed I can, Charis. It would be my honor to once again serve the people.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema looked to Xando and also smiled. “Well, I suppose that leaves you and me to organize the supplies and gather the people into various work crews. Is there any particular preference as to which job you would like, Xando?”</p><p></p><p>The tribal leader nodded and spoke with confidence. “The people are more comfortable taking orders from me that you, simply because the trust is already established within my leadership. Why don’t I organize the people into various work crews? You deal with organizing and rationing the supplies. The people will see the necessity of that task and accept your authority in that matter. I am still the guide for these people, but you are the leader of this place.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema nodded in approval and replied. “Sounds like as good of a plan as any, Xando.”</p><p></p><p>Charis turned away from Druff and looked to Rhema and Xando. “Where are you planning on storing the supplies? If we know that then Druff and I can direct the people to you as we go about advising the people on how to establish this temporary village.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema pointed to a small outcropping of rock above a smaller alcove off of the main chamber. This was that customary sleeping area they used on the prior raids into and out of Quehalost. “Direct the people toward that small outcropping of rock. Just underneath is the small cave where we used to sleep. It is protected on all sides and is a safe place to ensure our food stores are protected from any threat.”</p><p></p><p>Charis nodded and turned back to Druff. “Shall we, then? The people will no doubt be getting anxious soon.”</p><p></p><p>Duff nodded and began to walk the perimeter of the main chamber. As he turned he spoke to Charis who walked beside him. “They are tired after such a long and strenuous journey underground.”</p><p></p><p>Charis nodded. “We all are, Druff. We all are. I think that most people will take the advice on where to set up camp with welcome. At least down here in the caves we need not fear the elements of weather nor fear it becoming too cold or too hot.”</p><p></p><p>Druff replied as he smiled. “Yeah. Our biggest concerns will be light, water, and the occasional defense. I’ve been thinking of asking for mandatory enlistment in defense classes. If nothing else, it would give the people something to do while they were underground. Perhaps Rhema could teach some of them her magic?”</p><p></p><p>Charis approved. “Probably a wise precaution. Rhema’s magic comes from her mind, however. Her magic is not the same as Semeion’s or even our dragon father’s. I do not know if it can even be taught.”</p><p></p><p>As the pair of Drakontai spoke, Xando and Rhema took up residence in the alcove at the rear of the cave. Xando continued their discussion as Charis and Druff left. “I suppose what I will need from you is a list of the duties that will be necessary for our survival. Once I have those duties I can organize the people into teams and perhaps even shifts. I suppose night and daytime will blur together underground?”</p><p></p><p>Rhema looked to Xando at the thought. “Probably. I suppose that means we should start by suggesting people vary their sleeping times. If the people can shift their sleeping times we could guarantee that work is being accomplished and the defense of the chamber is ensured throughout the whole day.”</p><p></p><p>As Xando nodded in agreement she continued, “As for duties, I can think of three urgent needs that will begin once we have established camp. Defense, water collection, and the occasional ride towards the storage cave to pick up another gathering of wood and other supplies that we left behind. I imagine that there are mushrooms and other fungus that could be gathered to supplement the dried and cured food that we stored. Each of the water and food teams that we send out should have a defense team with them as well. We should not make a habit of traveling light in the tunnels. Numbers will provide our biggest advantage.”</p><p></p><p>Xando listened intently and began formulating a list in his mind. He was already dividing up the villagers into a duty roster. The needs were simple in this temporary underground environment, but each job was vital to their survival. As Druff and Charis made their rounds, slowly the people began to trickle in to deposit their supplies and receive their orders from Xando. The emergency village was beginning to take shape.</p><p> [/Sblock]</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Nonlethal Force, post: 3183353, member: 35788"] Inside the cavern underneath the Tongra-Quehalost Mountains, Charis, Rhema, and Xando were easily able to load up the most significant supplies with the people and move off in the direction of the main underground chamber. The plan was to turn to another cavern that was large enough to hold the small community for a good amount of time. They were packed and well on their way before the dragon appeared at the tunnel entrance. Even with his ability to see in the vast underground darkness they were well out of range. Frustrated by a lack of ability to either see their movements or follow them into the smaller cave entrance the dragon father attempted to use his innate magical ability to locate the villagers underground. He found that effort equally unfruitful. The villagers had escaped his grasp for now. The great wyrm smiled grimly and continued to talk to himself as he boiled internally from his anger. [Color=Red]“I will wait them out as before. The last time they fled my presence they could not manage a few days underground by themselves before they realized that they needed my protection. They will return. Once I have collected them all they will feel my wrath.”[/Color] The dragon was unaware that the ghostly figure looked on from the edge of the forest. In truth, the ghostly figure was impressed at the dragon’s ability to show composure. Red dragons were known much more for their fury and explosive wrath than they were for their patience. It was this quality of impulsive wrath that the party had used against the dragon earlier to draw his attention away from the Provenience and the rest of the villagers. Now, the dragon demonstrated great patience by not erupting into an immediate and vengeful wrath. The wyrm unfurled his wings once more and took to the sky. Although the Tongra-Quehalost Mountains were high, they were not so tall as to keep a dragon from being able to fly over them. There were the occasional mountain peaks that stretched up into the sky which were tall enough to prevent flight over them on account of the air being too thin. Only the cold-loving white dragons could survive in such conditions for very long. These white dragons did not fly in the higher altitudes. They were forced to the ground by the thinness of the air. This was not such a location, however. The red wyrm had no trouble launching himself off of the ground. Once he was into the air again, he found a mountainous pass that was low enough for him to fly to the other side. Of course, the dragon knew that he dare not stay too long on the Tongra side of the mountains. The southern reaches of Tongra were well known for their clusters of green dragons. Few of these dragons would appreciate the intrusion of a single dominant red wyrm into their land. Should he stay too long, the red wyrm would likely be forced back anyway. However, he was able to find a small perch atop the mountains that would allow him to occasionally view the Tongra side without intruding too close upon the territories of the green dragons. The greens would not be too willing to challenge him in the mountain passes. They were much more comfortable in the forests and fighting upon land than taking to the thinner air of the mountains. From this perch he could watch the Tongra side of the mountain range and quickly fly back to the Quehalost side of the mountain range to observe the southern entrance to the underground tunnels that the villagers had used. It was the perfect location to insure that the villagers did not move without his notice. Back inside the underground tunnels, Rhema lead Charis and the rest of the village further into the depths of the mountain until she had found the chamber that she was looking for. Ischarus had managed to verbally coach Charis in finding the way to the grand chamber, although Rhema did not need Charis’ help along the way very often. This was the same chamber that Ischarus and Rhema typically used as a stopover point when they came into Quehalost. The chamber was easily defensible and had seldom been a place of confrontation as they used it to camp. Ischarus had not been sure if it was far from any underground civilizations or if they had simply been lucky. In either regard, it was the most likely candidate as a place to keep the villagers safe until Ischarus had found a way to deal with the red wyrm and his wrath. The chamber was the better part of a day’s journey underground and Rhema only made a few wrong turns as they moved. Fortunately, Rhema had Charis to draw upon and quickly realized that they had made an error in traversing the dark tunnels. In spite of the long journey the trip was worth it to be free of the dragon father and his magical influences. With the help of the villagers’ able and willing backs the group was able to bring a majority of the necessary supplies needed to last until the time when Ischarus should return. Once they were set up within the main chamber, Charis and Xando could lead a small group back to the storage chamber in order to gather up the remainder of supplies. It would take several trips, but there was no need to rush. Thankfully, there were several reliable sources for drinking water within the mountain passages themselves. Many of these water sources were near the main underground chamber. None of the sources could be depended upon for great quantities of water. So long as the people were not greedy, they could stave off illness, and everyone was willing to ration the supplies the availability of water would not be a problem. One thing could be said about the availability of water around them. This deep in the mountains the water could be counted on to be both pure and cold. Charis and Rhema both knew the water supply issue was actually a benefit rather than a problem. If they were going to be underground for even so long as a month, people would need jobs to do so that they could avoid even the slightest psychological disorder. It would be hard enough to stay underground and buried from the light of the sun for such a long time without going insane. If they could find enough tasks for the villagers to accomplish each and every day it would give them a sense of purpose and the ability to mark off time. Unfortunately with Semeion’s absence it meant that providing light to accomplish these tasks would be more difficult than expected. His magical ability to make light out of darkness would be sorely missed. Once they arrived, Charis and Rhema gathered together with Druff and Xando to begin to set up the new underground village. Charis looked to Druff and smiled. He was clearly tired from the journey, but as the day moved on he found he could walk more and more and be carried less. His body was still frail but it was welcoming the ability to stretch out and keep from being hunched up. Charis decided to address her old friend first. [Color=Orange]“Druff, old friend. You had protected both the village and me for so long before my new friends came and took me away to teach me in the ways of light. Will you do the honor of helping me establish an order among the people as they set up camp so that the defense of this place will be easier? It will need a fair amount of organization to accomplish such a task.”[/Color] Instantly Druff appeared to stand taller and regain the pride in his duty that Charis had remembered. He replied, [Color=Lime]“Indeed I can, Charis. It would be my honor to once again serve the people.”[/Color] Rhema looked to Xando and also smiled. [Color=PaleGreen]“Well, I suppose that leaves you and me to organize the supplies and gather the people into various work crews. Is there any particular preference as to which job you would like, Xando?”[/Color] The tribal leader nodded and spoke with confidence. [Color=Lime]“The people are more comfortable taking orders from me that you, simply because the trust is already established within my leadership. Why don’t I organize the people into various work crews? You deal with organizing and rationing the supplies. The people will see the necessity of that task and accept your authority in that matter. I am still the guide for these people, but you are the leader of this place.”[/Color] Rhema nodded in approval and replied. [Color=Lime]“Sounds like as good of a plan as any, Xando.”[/Color] Charis turned away from Druff and looked to Rhema and Xando. [Color=Lime]“Where are you planning on storing the supplies? If we know that then Druff and I can direct the people to you as we go about advising the people on how to establish this temporary village.”[/Color] Rhema pointed to a small outcropping of rock above a smaller alcove off of the main chamber. This was that customary sleeping area they used on the prior raids into and out of Quehalost. [Color=PaleGreen]“Direct the people toward that small outcropping of rock. Just underneath is the small cave where we used to sleep. It is protected on all sides and is a safe place to ensure our food stores are protected from any threat.”[/Color] Charis nodded and turned back to Druff. [Color=Orange]“Shall we, then? The people will no doubt be getting anxious soon.”[/Color] Duff nodded and began to walk the perimeter of the main chamber. As he turned he spoke to Charis who walked beside him. [Color=Lime]“They are tired after such a long and strenuous journey underground.”[/Color] Charis nodded. [Color=Orange]“We all are, Druff. We all are. I think that most people will take the advice on where to set up camp with welcome. At least down here in the caves we need not fear the elements of weather nor fear it becoming too cold or too hot.”[/Color] Druff replied as he smiled. [Color=Lime]“Yeah. Our biggest concerns will be light, water, and the occasional defense. I’ve been thinking of asking for mandatory enlistment in defense classes. If nothing else, it would give the people something to do while they were underground. Perhaps Rhema could teach some of them her magic?”[/Color] Charis approved. [Color=Orange]“Probably a wise precaution. Rhema’s magic comes from her mind, however. Her magic is not the same as Semeion’s or even our dragon father’s. I do not know if it can even be taught.”[/Color] As the pair of Drakontai spoke, Xando and Rhema took up residence in the alcove at the rear of the cave. Xando continued their discussion as Charis and Druff left. [Color=Lime]“I suppose what I will need from you is a list of the duties that will be necessary for our survival. Once I have those duties I can organize the people into teams and perhaps even shifts. I suppose night and daytime will blur together underground?”[/Color] Rhema looked to Xando at the thought. [Color=PaleGreen]“Probably. I suppose that means we should start by suggesting people vary their sleeping times. If the people can shift their sleeping times we could guarantee that work is being accomplished and the defense of the chamber is ensured throughout the whole day.”[/Color] As Xando nodded in agreement she continued, [Color=PaleGreen]“As for duties, I can think of three urgent needs that will begin once we have established camp. Defense, water collection, and the occasional ride towards the storage cave to pick up another gathering of wood and other supplies that we left behind. I imagine that there are mushrooms and other fungus that could be gathered to supplement the dried and cured food that we stored. Each of the water and food teams that we send out should have a defense team with them as well. We should not make a habit of traveling light in the tunnels. Numbers will provide our biggest advantage.”[/Color] Xando listened intently and began formulating a list in his mind. He was already dividing up the villagers into a duty roster. The needs were simple in this temporary underground environment, but each job was vital to their survival. As Druff and Charis made their rounds, slowly the people began to trickle in to deposit their supplies and receive their orders from Xando. The emergency village was beginning to take shape. [Sblock=Color-Free Speech Section] Inside the cavern underneath the Tongra-Quehalost Mountains, Charis, Rhema, and Xando were easily able to load up the most significant supplies with the people and move off in the direction of the main underground chamber. The plan was to turn to another cavern that was large enough to hold the small community for a good amount of time. They were packed and well on their way before the dragon appeared at the tunnel entrance. Even with his ability to see in the vast underground darkness they were well out of range. Frustrated by a lack of ability to either see their movements or follow them into the smaller cave entrance the dragon father attempted to use his innate magical ability to locate the villagers underground. He found that effort equally unfruitful. The villagers had escaped his grasp for now. The great wyrm smiled grimly and continued to talk to himself as he boiled internally from his anger. “I will wait them out as before. The last time they fled my presence they could not manage a few days underground by themselves before they realized that they needed my protection. They will return. Once I have collected them all they will feel my wrath.” The dragon was unaware that the ghostly figure looked on from the edge of the forest. In truth, the ghostly figure was impressed at the dragon’s ability to show composure. Red dragons were known much more for their fury and explosive wrath than they were for their patience. It was this quality of impulsive wrath that the party had used against the dragon earlier to draw his attention away from the Provenience and the rest of the villagers. Now, the dragon demonstrated great patience by not erupting into an immediate and vengeful wrath. The wyrm unfurled his wings once more and took to the sky. Although the Tongra-Quehalost Mountains were high, they were not so tall as to keep a dragon from being able to fly over them. There were the occasional mountain peaks that stretched up into the sky which were tall enough to prevent flight over them on account of the air being too thin. Only the cold-loving white dragons could survive in such conditions for very long. These white dragons did not fly in the higher altitudes. They were forced to the ground by the thinness of the air. This was not such a location, however. The red wyrm had no trouble launching himself off of the ground. Once he was into the air again, he found a mountainous pass that was low enough for him to fly to the other side. Of course, the dragon knew that he dare not stay too long on the Tongra side of the mountains. The southern reaches of Tongra were well known for their clusters of green dragons. Few of these dragons would appreciate the intrusion of a single dominant red wyrm into their land. Should he stay too long, the red wyrm would likely be forced back anyway. However, he was able to find a small perch atop the mountains that would allow him to occasionally view the Tongra side without intruding too close upon the territories of the green dragons. The greens would not be too willing to challenge him in the mountain passes. They were much more comfortable in the forests and fighting upon land than taking to the thinner air of the mountains. From this perch he could watch the Tongra side of the mountain range and quickly fly back to the Quehalost side of the mountain range to observe the southern entrance to the underground tunnels that the villagers had used. It was the perfect location to insure that the villagers did not move without his notice. Back inside the underground tunnels, Rhema lead Charis and the rest of the village further into the depths of the mountain until she had found the chamber that she was looking for. Ischarus had managed to verbally coach Charis in finding the way to the grand chamber, although Rhema did not need Charis’ help along the way very often. This was the same chamber that Ischarus and Rhema typically used as a stopover point when they came into Quehalost. The chamber was easily defensible and had seldom been a place of confrontation as they used it to camp. Ischarus had not been sure if it was far from any underground civilizations or if they had simply been lucky. In either regard, it was the most likely candidate as a place to keep the villagers safe until Ischarus had found a way to deal with the red wyrm and his wrath. The chamber was the better part of a day’s journey underground and Rhema only made a few wrong turns as they moved. Fortunately, Rhema had Charis to draw upon and quickly realized that they had made an error in traversing the dark tunnels. In spite of the long journey the trip was worth it to be free of the dragon father and his magical influences. With the help of the villagers’ able and willing backs the group was able to bring a majority of the necessary supplies needed to last until the time when Ischarus should return. Once they were set up within the main chamber, Charis and Xando could lead a small group back to the storage chamber in order to gather up the remainder of supplies. It would take several trips, but there was no need to rush. Thankfully, there were several reliable sources for drinking water within the mountain passages themselves. Many of these water sources were near the main underground chamber. None of the sources could be depended upon for great quantities of water. So long as the people were not greedy, they could stave off illness, and everyone was willing to ration the supplies the availability of water would not be a problem. One thing could be said about the availability of water around them. This deep in the mountains the water could be counted on to be both pure and cold. Charis and Rhema both knew the water supply issue was actually a benefit rather than a problem. If they were going to be underground for even so long as a month, people would need jobs to do so that they could avoid even the slightest psychological disorder. It would be hard enough to stay underground and buried from the light of the sun for such a long time without going insane. If they could find enough tasks for the villagers to accomplish each and every day it would give them a sense of purpose and the ability to mark off time. Unfortunately with Semeion’s absence it meant that providing light to accomplish these tasks would be more difficult than expected. His magical ability to make light out of darkness would be sorely missed. Once they arrived, Charis and Rhema gathered together with Druff and Xando to begin to set up the new underground village. Charis looked to Druff and smiled. He was clearly tired from the journey, but as the day moved on he found he could walk more and more and be carried less. His body was still frail but it was welcoming the ability to stretch out and keep from being hunched up. Charis decided to address her old friend first. “Druff, old friend. You had protected both the village and me for so long before my new friends came and took me away to teach me in the ways of light. Will you do the honor of helping me establish an order among the people as they set up camp so that the defense of this place will be easier? It will need a fair amount of organization to accomplish such a task.” Instantly Druff appeared to stand taller and regain the pride in his duty that Charis had remembered. He replied, “Indeed I can, Charis. It would be my honor to once again serve the people.” Rhema looked to Xando and also smiled. “Well, I suppose that leaves you and me to organize the supplies and gather the people into various work crews. Is there any particular preference as to which job you would like, Xando?” The tribal leader nodded and spoke with confidence. “The people are more comfortable taking orders from me that you, simply because the trust is already established within my leadership. Why don’t I organize the people into various work crews? You deal with organizing and rationing the supplies. The people will see the necessity of that task and accept your authority in that matter. I am still the guide for these people, but you are the leader of this place.” Rhema nodded in approval and replied. “Sounds like as good of a plan as any, Xando.” Charis turned away from Druff and looked to Rhema and Xando. “Where are you planning on storing the supplies? If we know that then Druff and I can direct the people to you as we go about advising the people on how to establish this temporary village.” Rhema pointed to a small outcropping of rock above a smaller alcove off of the main chamber. This was that customary sleeping area they used on the prior raids into and out of Quehalost. “Direct the people toward that small outcropping of rock. Just underneath is the small cave where we used to sleep. It is protected on all sides and is a safe place to ensure our food stores are protected from any threat.” Charis nodded and turned back to Druff. “Shall we, then? The people will no doubt be getting anxious soon.” Duff nodded and began to walk the perimeter of the main chamber. As he turned he spoke to Charis who walked beside him. “They are tired after such a long and strenuous journey underground.” Charis nodded. “We all are, Druff. We all are. I think that most people will take the advice on where to set up camp with welcome. At least down here in the caves we need not fear the elements of weather nor fear it becoming too cold or too hot.” Druff replied as he smiled. “Yeah. Our biggest concerns will be light, water, and the occasional defense. I’ve been thinking of asking for mandatory enlistment in defense classes. If nothing else, it would give the people something to do while they were underground. Perhaps Rhema could teach some of them her magic?” Charis approved. “Probably a wise precaution. Rhema’s magic comes from her mind, however. Her magic is not the same as Semeion’s or even our dragon father’s. I do not know if it can even be taught.” As the pair of Drakontai spoke, Xando and Rhema took up residence in the alcove at the rear of the cave. Xando continued their discussion as Charis and Druff left. “I suppose what I will need from you is a list of the duties that will be necessary for our survival. Once I have those duties I can organize the people into teams and perhaps even shifts. I suppose night and daytime will blur together underground?” Rhema looked to Xando at the thought. “Probably. I suppose that means we should start by suggesting people vary their sleeping times. If the people can shift their sleeping times we could guarantee that work is being accomplished and the defense of the chamber is ensured throughout the whole day.” As Xando nodded in agreement she continued, “As for duties, I can think of three urgent needs that will begin once we have established camp. Defense, water collection, and the occasional ride towards the storage cave to pick up another gathering of wood and other supplies that we left behind. I imagine that there are mushrooms and other fungus that could be gathered to supplement the dried and cured food that we stored. Each of the water and food teams that we send out should have a defense team with them as well. We should not make a habit of traveling light in the tunnels. Numbers will provide our biggest advantage.” Xando listened intently and began formulating a list in his mind. He was already dividing up the villagers into a duty roster. The needs were simple in this temporary underground environment, but each job was vital to their survival. As Druff and Charis made their rounds, slowly the people began to trickle in to deposit their supplies and receive their orders from Xando. The emergency village was beginning to take shape. [/Sblock] [/QUOTE]
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