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<blockquote data-quote="Delemental" data-source="post: 2358662" data-attributes="member: 5203"><p>The group rode for nearly two hours before cresting a dune and coming upon a fortified encampment. Large wooden stakes planted in the sand, ponting outward to repel attackers, surrounded the encampment. Tents spread out everywhere haphazardly, and at the center were several large wagons carrying huge barrels, presumably of water.</p><p></p><p> Upon entering the encampment, the party was told to tether their horses at a spot near the camp’s edge. As it was approaching noon, they were instructed to find shelter, and that Keth would meet with them later. The party rested for several hours, talking quietly or sleeping, until the sun went down. As the sun slipped below the horizon, the party noticed that no torches were being lit; other than a couple of small cooking fires, the camp was pitch dark. Fortunately, three of Aelfenn’s five moons were out this night, and without a cloud in the sky there was enough light for those without darkvision to get by.</p><p></p><p> The orc who had led the scouting party approached the party. “Keth will see you now,” he said. “He has chosen to honor you by breaking bread with you.”</p><p></p><p> The party followed the orc to a large tent near the center of the encampment. Stepping inside, the party noticed that lanterns hung on each of the tent-poles lit this tent. Looking around, they could see why; there were shelves holding books stacked inside the tent, most looking well-used. The floor was covered in layers of rugs and cushions. A curtain made from hundreds of rough, uncut gemstones hung across the tent’s interior, dividing one corner from the others. Through the curtain, the party could see about a half-dozen figures lying on pillows; Osborn could see that they were scantily-clad orc women. In the center of the main portion of the tent, a large wooden plank was set on the floor. Food was stacked up on the makeshift table, consisting mostly of spiced meats wrapped in long grasses and roasted. On the far side from the party sat a powerful-looking orc. He wore simple clothing, and no obvious signs of rank or other affiliations.</p><p></p><p> “Welcome, visitors,” Keth said. “Please, sit and eat.”</p><p></p><p> “Lovely place you have here,” Kavan said as he sat, eyeing the gemstone curtain.</p><p></p><p> Keth nodded at the compliment. “There are few places of loveliness in this desert. We must carry them with us.”</p><p></p><p> “You seem to be doing very well,” Lanara commented.</p><p></p><p> “I am the chieftain.” Keth gestured toward the platters of food in front of them, encouraging the party to eat even as he took one of the wrapped bundles of meat and bit into it. Everyone took food, except for Xu, who couldn’t eat meat.</p><p></p><p> “I have been told that you have been sent here on a quest for the Ardaran church,” said Keth after a while.</p><p></p><p> “Indeed,” Tolly replied. “I have been sent forth by my church to replace some items that were used to my benefit.”</p><p></p><p> “What items do you seek?”</p><p></p><p> “Diamonds. My resurrection was costly.”</p><p></p><p> “I see. Then you seek not just diamonds, but large and well-formed diamonds, then.”</p><p></p><p> “Yes.”</p><p></p><p> Keth nodded. “Those are difficult to find even in the best of times. None of the gem fields in my lands could provide what you seek. However, I believe we can help each other out.” Keth shifted his position to recline on cushions. “Here is my situation. I am currently engaged in war with my brother. It is partially a war of control, and partially of vengeance. I was exiled from the desert at a young age by my brother.”</p><p></p><p> “Why were you exiled?” asked Tolly.</p><p></p><p> “It is the way of things in the desert. We were the sons of the chieftain. Only one may rule, and my brother feared the competition I might bring him. He did not want his road to power to be rough.”</p><p></p><p> Tolly nodded. “Then it was best paved early.”</p><p></p><p> “Indeed,” Keth agreed. “But my exile gave me an opportunity to travel the world and hone my skills. I also learned to see things much, much differently that those of the desert. I believe I can rule better than my brother. As you can see, I have many who share that belief and side with me. I believe my brother may also be somewhat mad. He talks of ‘expanding the orcish empire’ beyond the desert.”</p><p></p><p> “You mean like uniting the clans?” Lanara asked.</p><p></p><p> “Exactly, though the idea of an ‘orc empire’ is ludicrous.”</p><p></p><p> “Similar things have happened before,” Tolly said. “This is why Targeth has its shield.”</p><p></p><p> “Indeed,” Keth said. “And I fear another attempt to invade Targeth would lead to the decimation of the orc race, something I am naturally opposed to.” He gestured vaguely to the south, indicating the vast desert outside the camp. “My brother’s lands lie south of here. South of his clan territory are diamond mines that I believe will hold what you seek. It would be easiest for you to simply travel due south of here to find them, however I doubt my brother will grant you passage. But if you help me defeat him…”</p><p></p><p> “How many men does your brother have?” Tolly asked.</p><p></p><p> “He has a slight edge in numbers, perhaps a quarter more than what I have. However, my men are better trained and better equipped.”</p><p></p><p> “So how many men do you have? Can you give me numbers?”</p><p></p><p> Keth frowned. “That is a military secret I am not willing to share with outsiders. Suffice it to say that he has greater numbers, we have greater training.”</p><p></p><p> “So you see our presence as the edge you need.” Tolly said.</p><p></p><p> “That is true. In addition, however, my scouts report that they have seen my brother’s followers using a kind of magic they have never seen before.”</p><p></p><p> The party exchanged subtle glances. They had recently encountered ‘strange magic’ themselves – the powers of Xerxes.</p><p></p><p> “What about you? Do you have any magical desert tricks?” Kavan asked.</p><p></p><p> “We have our sorcerers, and our clerics of Grabâkh,” he said dismissively. “We offer the burned sacrifices, as I’m sure they do as well. They have something… strange. We do have our warsingers, a tradition that my brother appears not to favor.”</p><p></p><p> Lanara nodded, recognizing ‘warsinger’ as the orcish term for the bardic tradition.</p><p></p><p> “Are you a child of Grabâkh as well?” Tolly asked.</p><p></p><p> “No, my own patron is Estranë,” Keth replied. “I respect Grabâkh, and pay homage to him since he brings light to the world and allows things to grow. This is why I also offer respect to Ardara, and Feesha, and even Krüsh, as they all have their place in our survival, and thus deserving of our respect.”</p><p></p><p> “An enlightened view,” said Tolly.</p><p></p><p> Keth nodded. “Allow me to further enlighten you as to the ways of my people. It appears none of you have been to the desert before, save perhaps this one, who carries some of our traditional weapons.” He gestured to Arrie, who had placed her orcish shotputs nearby on the floor while she ate.</p><p></p><p> “I have had brief experiences with the predominant orc culture,” Arrie said.</p><p></p><p> “You may notice that our women and children are not here,” Keth continued. “There are two sources of wealth in the desert – one is of use to us, and one is of use to others. The first is water. It comes from oases and natural springs, as well as the few rivers in the Haran, such as the Kruga to the north. The locations of oases are closely-guarded clan secrets; you will not find them. If you did, you would either join the clan they belong to or die. The second source of wealth is the gems that lie buried beneath the sands. The smaller, plentiful ones are as dust to us – no more than affectations. We collect and trade these to other lands for things that we lack; forged weapons, metal armor which can be worn in the desert for short periods, and such. It is these things that we protect. The families – the women, children, the aged and infirm, they stay at the oases. We do not build castles or have standing armies as they do in other lands. Secrecy and mobility are our greatest weapons. Our armies move constantly, not only to intercept raids from other clans but to strike at their oases and more profitable gem mines.”</p><p></p><p> Keth leaned forward, gesturing at the party with half of a meat bundle. “We do not kill in the desert as often as most outsiders believe. A prisoner has value; the information they hold on the holdings of their clan. Those who give up that information are set free.”</p><p></p><p> “But wouldn’t they be outcast from their former clan, on suspicion that they had given up information?” Lanara asked.</p><p></p><p> “They would be hunted and killed, I would think,” Arrie commented.</p><p></p><p> “Do you offer prisoners the option of joining your clan?” Osborn asked.</p><p></p><p> “We do, though not many take it,” Keth said. “We are unique among the clans in this, as we are newly-forged. Other clans would not. This is how I have gathered many of my followers.”</p><p></p><p> “Where is your mother?” Kavan asked.</p><p></p><p> Keth blinked for a moment at the sudden change in subject. “She died years ago in a raid on Sargia.”</p><p></p><p> “Unfortunate,” said Lanara.</p><p></p><p> “It is the way of things,” he shrugged.</p><p></p><p> “The desert is harsh,” the bard added.</p><p></p><p> “Indeed. It tests us daily. That is why we are here; because orcs are the only race strong enough to survive in this land.”</p><p></p><p> Kavan continued his questioning. “Any other siblings?”</p><p></p><p> “None, except my brother. I have hordes of cousins; my father was a prolific man. Some are with me, some with my brother, others dead, or scattered among other clans.”</p><p></p><p> “So, how do you wish for our assistance?” Tolly asked. “I do not wish to step too fully into clan wars.”</p><p></p><p> “It’s a bit late for that,” Keth said. “If you do not wish to be involved in orcish clan wars, then in the morning my men will escort you to our borders, and you can return home.”</p><p></p><p> “What I meant was that I do not wish to become permanently involved. There is a difference between assisting due to a mutually beneficial agreement, or ending up hunted by your brother’s clan for the rest of my days.”</p><p></p><p> “Oh, well, if we win they will either join us or be wiped out,” Keth said dismissively. He left unspoken what would happen if his own clan lost. “What is your true concern? Is it the time involved?”</p><p></p><p> “Time is not of the essence, though I have been commanded to complete this quest within a year,” Tolly said.</p><p></p><p> “Let me enlighten you as to how we make war. Much of our effort is expended on information gathering – if we can’t find the enemy army, we cannot make war on them. Surprise is the most common tactic used.”</p><p></p><p> “You never attack an oasis?” Tolly asked.</p><p></p><p> “No, because accidents happen far too easily, and water is too precious to risk spoiling, even if it means ignoring an undefended target. It would be like blasting a pile of gold coins with a wizard’s fireball; the gold is still there, but is unusable without great effort.”</p><p></p><p> Tolly was silent for a moment. “If I could have time to talk with my companions – I cannot make all of the decisions for them.”</p><p></p><p> Kavan chuckled slightly at this, and Lanara and Osborn rolled their eyes.</p><p> “So, they are here of their own free will?” Keth asked.</p><p></p><p> “We have formed a bond,” Tolly explained.</p><p></p><p> “So, they follow you freely?” Keth asked again.</p><p></p><p> “Um, we travel together,” Lanara chimed in.</p><p></p><p> “We have no leader,” Osborn explained.</p><p></p><p> Keth seemed confused by this. Tolly quickly interjected. “Whoever is most suited to the task at hand is chosen as leader.”</p><p></p><p> “Ah, this I can understand. So, who leads now?”</p><p></p><p> “We are following Tolly’s quest,” Lanara explained, “but not following Tolly.” Lanara seemed unwilling to even give the impression that someone might be in charge of making decisions on her behalf.</p><p></p><p> “What are you really asking?” Arrie said. “Do you wish to know who speaks for us?”</p><p></p><p> When Keth indicated that was what he wanted, Lanara again stated they they spoke as a group. Tolly tried to explain that they had their own rules within the group for deciding such things. Finally, Keth held up his hands and conceded. “If you need to discuss, you need to discuss,” he said. “I will tell you this. You will not be mixed in with my troops, nor become part of my army. Your first assignment will likely be to guard the water casks. An army lives or dies by the water they carry, so they are an obvious target.”</p><p></p><p> “Do you ever poison the water in your brother’s casks?” Lanara asked.</p><p></p><p> “It is one tactic,” Keth agreed, “but it is difficult, as the casks are made of wood sheathed in metal, and hard to penetrate. And if we win the battle, then the water is useless to us as well.”</p><p></p><p> “How far away is your brother?” Kavan asked.</p><p></p><p> Keth frowned. “I cannot pinpoint his exact location, which is… vexing. I know he is relatively close, no more than a week out. Depending on which direction we travel, we could meet tomorrow, or not see each other for a month. It is the way of things.”</p><p></p><p> Autumn let out a low whistle to signal Tolly. The sentinel had kept her visor closed the entire time they were in the encampment, to avoid revealing her celestial heritage and possibly causing suspicion. She leaned over and whispered something into the cleric’s ear, and he nodded. “Keth, do your clerics or sorcerers ever use summoned animals as scouts?”</p><p></p><p> “It is uncommon, but not unheard of,” Keth said. “It is a careful balance between the benefit such creatures can provide, and the fact that it is yet another mouth consuming water.”</p><p></p><p> “We may be able to provide some assistance in that area,” Tolly stated.</p><p></p><p> “If you have such resources, they are welcome,” Keth said. “Much of our scouting, and theirs, is done through magical means, and therefore most of our defenses in that area are geared toward blocking scrying.”</p><p></p><p> The group took their leave of Keth, promising that they would return with a decision in the morning. While most of the group went off to set up their tents, Osborn stayed to speak privately with Keth, and Arrie and Lanara also remained behind to further discuss orcish culture. It was fully night by they time everyone had gathered around their two tents. Kyle had conjured up an opaque hemisphere that surrounded their camp and glowed softly inside, allowing them to have enough light to talk without the light being visible from outside. A couple of the orcs in the camp had come over to barter for a portion of Osborn’s bacon, as the smoked meat was unfamiliar to them. Osborn left the exchange richer by a topaz of moderate quality.</p><p></p><p> “So,” said Kyle, as soon as they were together, “at any point, did anyone else wonder if Keth was telling the truth about all this, or if he’s actually dripping evil and fooling us into doing his bidding?”</p><p></p><p> “He seemed genuine to me, Kyle,” said Autumn flatly. Osborn nodded his agreement.</p><p></p><p> “But, couldn’t we simply ask that before we agree to work with him that he submit to some simple divinations, to make sure?”</p><p></p><p> “Well, I have faith that Ardara would not lead me to seek out this man if his outlook was opposed to hers,” Tolly said. “And both Autumn and I carry these tokens of our respective faith, which will inform us if our actions are placing our souls in danger.”</p><p></p><p> “I have a question,” Arrie said. “Even if Keth is ‘evil’, does it really matter?”</p><p></p><p> “As long as he is respectful of order, then his moral leanings are of lesser concern to me,” Tolly said. “I’m interested in the goals of my church, not defeating evil.”</p><p></p><p> “I mean, personally, unless he’s lying, I don’t think it matters.” Arrie continued. “One side is as good as another in these kinds of conflicts. And if Keth is lying, then we go after him.”</p><p></p><p> The group nodded agreement, though Kyle seemed reluctant. “Another thing that worries me is this talk of ‘a strange magic that we haven’t seen before’,” he said.</p><p></p><p> “Yes, we’ve run into that before,” Tolly said. “Xerxes.”</p><p></p><p> “In which case,” Osborn said, “we have an obligation to look into it. If Xerxes, or some other source of pre-Cataclysmic power is aiding Keth’s brother, then we need to know.”</p><p></p><p> “I agree,” Tolly said. “The gods have forbidden that for a reason. We have an obligation to enforce that sentence.”</p><p></p><p> “I think that we should just stay on water patrol,” said Autumn, “and not get any more involved than that.”</p><p></p><p> “I don’t think Keth will agree to that,” Arrie said. “He probably expects us to fight.”</p><p></p><p> “And it limits our options,” Osborn said.</p><p></p><p> There was a bit of discussion on their role as part of Clan Hulg’s forces. Kyle, who seemed to have lost interest in the subject, went to tend the horses.</p><p></p><p> “One thing I’d recommend,” Arrie interjected, “is that we provide Keth with a speaker for our group. It’s obvious that he’s very orderly, and has difficulty with our more egalitarian ways. We need to give him a face.”</p><p></p><p> “Whose face might that be?” Kavan asked.</p><p></p><p> “I think it should be Tolly,” Autumn said.</p><p></p><p> “Is everyone comfortable with having Tolly speak for us?” asked Arrie.</p><p></p><p> “I think we should have faith in him,” Autumn countered.</p><p></p><p> “I don’t hate all Estranëans,” Tolly said, answering the unvoiced concerns about his last unsuccessful interaction with a representative of that faith. “The High Priest in Laeshir rubbed me the wrong way, and I was young.”</p><p></p><p> “It wasn’t that long ago,” Osborn said quietly.</p><p></p><p> “I would actually recommend Lanara,” Arrie said. “While Tolly is sensible, and appears to be compatible with Keth, Lanara is more worldly.”</p><p></p><p> “And she’s gorgeous,” Kavan added.</p><p></p><p> Lanara laughed. “I don’t think I’m his type,” she said.</p><p></p><p> “Orc-touched have to come from somewhere,” Arrie observed.</p><p></p><p> “He’s already got five wives,” Lanara said, “and those are probably just the ones he brought with him. What would he want with me? But hey, you want me to talk, I’ll talk.”</p><p></p><p> “Well, you would be better at concealing our motives than I would,” Tolly conceded. “In the event things worked out unfavorably for us.”</p><p></p><p> Arrie nodded. “Lanara is far more facile than any of us in expressing both purely what she believes, and disguising it when needed.”</p><p> “You mean I’m a good liar.”</p><p></p><p> “And I think,” Osborn added, “that she would be good at keeping the interests of those of us who are not so devout in mind.”</p><p></p><p> The party agreed to elect Lanara their spokesperson. Kyle was filled in when he returned, and went along with the group’s decision. The group turned in for the night, although Kyle remained awake a while longer.</p><p></p><p> The next morning the party arose, and watched as the sun caused an iridescent rainbow to flash across the sands of the desert. Lanara went to speak with Keth, meeting him outside his tent as his wives went about breaking it down and packing it.</p><p></p><p> “I have been chosen to speak for us,” Lanara said.</p><p></p><p> Keth looked slightly relieved at only having to deal with one person. “What is your decision?”</p><p></p><p> “We agree to guard your water supplies,” Lanara said.</p><p></p><p> Keth frowned. “I fear I have not made myself entirely clear. If you are to aid me, then I will direct what aid you will give. This is my clan, and my command. If you agree to aid me, then you will go where I say and do what I say.”</p><p></p><p> Lanara nodded. “Allow me to return to my group and make certain they understand this.”</p><p></p><p> Lanara went back and raised her concerns. There was some brief discussion; some felt that it was understood from the beginning that they were following Keth’s orders, others were worried that his orders might conflict with their interests.</p><p></p><p> “I think,” said Autumn, “that we should clarify the extent of how far we will follow his orders; not blindly, but to a point. If we feel uncomfortable with his orders, we will not follow them.”</p><p></p><p> “I don’t think that will go over well,” Lanara said.</p><p></p><p> “I will not follow an order that will cause me to go against my faith.” What Autumn left unspoken was that while listening to Keth’s desire for their absolute obedience, she had felt a twinge of warning from her <em>phylactery of faithfulness</em>; not a true sense of wrongdoing, but a sense that a blanket agreement with Keth might violate her ethics.</p><p></p><p> “Perhaps we needn’t say anything about it,” Kavan offered.</p><p></p><p> “Or we can be honest and tell him that some of us might have vows that could conflict with his orders,” Arrie said.</p><p></p><p> “I think I can do that,” Lanara said. She and Arrie went off to find Keth, who was supervising his wives as they loaded supplies on his horses.</p><p></p><p> “I believe we can agree to your terms,” Lanara said. “However, you should be aware that each of us follows a different path, and some of us have taken certain vows. Should your orders conflict with those vows, certain members of my party may not be able to comply.”</p><p></p><p> “Who, and what actions?” Keth asked.</p><p></p><p> “I can better speak for one of the primary objectors, as she is my sister,” Arrie said. “Autumn has taken vows as a member of the order of Sentinels. While your goals may be coterminous, there are certain actions that she cannot take.”</p><p></p><p> “I am familiar with the order,” Keth said.</p><p></p><p> “I think that as long as she isn’t ordered to slaughter innocents, there won’t be a problem,” Lanara said.</p><p></p><p> “I have no plans to give such orders.”</p><p></p><p> “Perhaps this arrangement will work,” Arrie offered. “We can agree that if a situation arises that causes problems for Autumn, she will inform you immediately and directly. And if at all possible, she will step aside.”</p><p></p><p> “It is highly unlikely that her oath will be called into question. I don’t foresee my brother bringing women and children to war. Forgive me; non-combatants. We do have some warrior women among our clan. It is from these that I choose my wives.”</p><p></p><p> “I noticed that your women were extremely competent,” Lanara observed.</p><p></p><p> “Indeed. I like my women to be competent. I have had to best each of them in battle for their hand in marriage.”</p><p></p><p> Under her breath, Lanara muttered, “Lovers and fighters, interesting.”</p><p></p><p> “As I said, her vows should not be called into question. In fact, she may be able to fulfill her higher purpose – it is not unknown for our clerics and sorcerers to summon extraplanetary aid in battle.”</p><p></p><p> “That would make Autumn very happy,” Arrie said.</p><p></p><p> “For today,” Keth said, “we have three water wagons. Normally, they are dispersed throughout the line. However, due to the proximity of an enemy force, today we will keep the wagons together. Half my forces will ride ahead, and the other half will remain behind with the wagons as a reserve. But if they are signaled to come to battle, they will come – leaving only you and a small squad of my men on each wagon. I must admit that it is not unheard of for my brother to attack and force me to bring in my reserves, and then attack our wagons with a small reserve force of his own. His greater numbers allow him to utilize such a tactic. You will ride with the wagons, and do whatever you feel is necessary to defend them if needed. An encampment will be prepared by nightfall. We will not make a full encampment for many days.”</p><p></p><p> “What is our authority in relation to the guards?” Arrie asked.</p><p></p><p> “Each squad has a captain, and there will also be a commander.” Keth nodded to Lanara. “You are the captain of your squad, and will report to the commander. Obey him as you would me – he knows what is needed for survival here, you do not. The other captains have no authority over you.”</p><p></p><p> Lanara and Arrie returned to find Tolly tracing intricate designs in the sand. He sat chanting and burning incense for a few minutes. Suddenly, the sand inside the circle began to swirl like a whirlwind, and emerging from the sand came a large wolfhound. The dog sat patiently, looking at Tolly. Arrie gasped, and looked truly delighted at the sight.</p><p></p><p> “We are looking for a certain amount of assistance,” Tolly said to the dog. “We need to find the location of the opponent of the orc, Keth, with whom we are currently allied. And we need knowledge as to what this ‘unfamiliar magic’ that he has mentioned might be.”</p><p></p><p> The dog sat back on its haunches, wagging its tail and panting. Then it grinned, and cocked its head to the side. “I’m so disappointed in you, Tolly Mulholland,” the dog said. “You get one task from me, and one task only. Which would you like me to perform?”</p><p></p><p> Tolly nodded, seemingly oblivious to being addressed by the name ‘Mulholland’, even though it was one none of his companions had ever heard. “I am more concerned as to the nature of this magic,” Tolly said. “My worry is that it is pre-Cataclysmic in nature, such as we have encountered in the recent past.”</p><p></p><p> “What do you offer for this task?” the dog asked.</p><p></p><p> Tolly frowned and thought for a moment. Meanwhile, Arrie reached out and petted the dog’s head. “I’m not certain how long this will take,” Tolly said at last. “Perhaps you have some suggestions as to what you are looking for?”</p><p></p><p> “You have some renown as a weaponsmith, yes?” the dog asked.</p><p></p><p> “Yes.”</p><p></p><p> “Excellent.” The dog suddenly stood up on its hind legs, stretching upward, and kept going up until he was standing fully upright. His paws had been replaced by human hands and feet, though his head was unchanged. The hound archon reached behind his back and pulled out a greatsword that had appeared there, placing the point in the sand and resting his hands across the pommel. “We have battles with Feesha’s followers from time to time. Though I am strong, her followers also have certain vulnerabilities. What I desire is for a blade such as this, forged of alchemical silver.”</p><p></p><p> “I will have time to finish this task before I start yours?” Tolly asked.</p><p></p><p> “Of course. These things take time. But it must be at your first opportunity.”</p><p></p><p> “Agreed.” Tolly spent a few minutes taking measurements and asking questions about grip and balance. Then the hound archon transformed back into its canine form, and trotted out into the desert, vanishing a few yards away.</p><p></p><p> Autumn took a moment to summon a celestial companion of her own – a hawk – that immediately took to wing and circled high into the sky. The party mounted their horses and rode into position near the water wagons as they began to roll out. Soon the entirety of Clan Hulg, plus eight additional members, was on the move into the deep desert.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Delemental, post: 2358662, member: 5203"] The group rode for nearly two hours before cresting a dune and coming upon a fortified encampment. Large wooden stakes planted in the sand, ponting outward to repel attackers, surrounded the encampment. Tents spread out everywhere haphazardly, and at the center were several large wagons carrying huge barrels, presumably of water. Upon entering the encampment, the party was told to tether their horses at a spot near the camp’s edge. As it was approaching noon, they were instructed to find shelter, and that Keth would meet with them later. The party rested for several hours, talking quietly or sleeping, until the sun went down. As the sun slipped below the horizon, the party noticed that no torches were being lit; other than a couple of small cooking fires, the camp was pitch dark. Fortunately, three of Aelfenn’s five moons were out this night, and without a cloud in the sky there was enough light for those without darkvision to get by. The orc who had led the scouting party approached the party. “Keth will see you now,” he said. “He has chosen to honor you by breaking bread with you.” The party followed the orc to a large tent near the center of the encampment. Stepping inside, the party noticed that lanterns hung on each of the tent-poles lit this tent. Looking around, they could see why; there were shelves holding books stacked inside the tent, most looking well-used. The floor was covered in layers of rugs and cushions. A curtain made from hundreds of rough, uncut gemstones hung across the tent’s interior, dividing one corner from the others. Through the curtain, the party could see about a half-dozen figures lying on pillows; Osborn could see that they were scantily-clad orc women. In the center of the main portion of the tent, a large wooden plank was set on the floor. Food was stacked up on the makeshift table, consisting mostly of spiced meats wrapped in long grasses and roasted. On the far side from the party sat a powerful-looking orc. He wore simple clothing, and no obvious signs of rank or other affiliations. “Welcome, visitors,” Keth said. “Please, sit and eat.” “Lovely place you have here,” Kavan said as he sat, eyeing the gemstone curtain. Keth nodded at the compliment. “There are few places of loveliness in this desert. We must carry them with us.” “You seem to be doing very well,” Lanara commented. “I am the chieftain.” Keth gestured toward the platters of food in front of them, encouraging the party to eat even as he took one of the wrapped bundles of meat and bit into it. Everyone took food, except for Xu, who couldn’t eat meat. “I have been told that you have been sent here on a quest for the Ardaran church,” said Keth after a while. “Indeed,” Tolly replied. “I have been sent forth by my church to replace some items that were used to my benefit.” “What items do you seek?” “Diamonds. My resurrection was costly.” “I see. Then you seek not just diamonds, but large and well-formed diamonds, then.” “Yes.” Keth nodded. “Those are difficult to find even in the best of times. None of the gem fields in my lands could provide what you seek. However, I believe we can help each other out.” Keth shifted his position to recline on cushions. “Here is my situation. I am currently engaged in war with my brother. It is partially a war of control, and partially of vengeance. I was exiled from the desert at a young age by my brother.” “Why were you exiled?” asked Tolly. “It is the way of things in the desert. We were the sons of the chieftain. Only one may rule, and my brother feared the competition I might bring him. He did not want his road to power to be rough.” Tolly nodded. “Then it was best paved early.” “Indeed,” Keth agreed. “But my exile gave me an opportunity to travel the world and hone my skills. I also learned to see things much, much differently that those of the desert. I believe I can rule better than my brother. As you can see, I have many who share that belief and side with me. I believe my brother may also be somewhat mad. He talks of ‘expanding the orcish empire’ beyond the desert.” “You mean like uniting the clans?” Lanara asked. “Exactly, though the idea of an ‘orc empire’ is ludicrous.” “Similar things have happened before,” Tolly said. “This is why Targeth has its shield.” “Indeed,” Keth said. “And I fear another attempt to invade Targeth would lead to the decimation of the orc race, something I am naturally opposed to.” He gestured vaguely to the south, indicating the vast desert outside the camp. “My brother’s lands lie south of here. South of his clan territory are diamond mines that I believe will hold what you seek. It would be easiest for you to simply travel due south of here to find them, however I doubt my brother will grant you passage. But if you help me defeat him…” “How many men does your brother have?” Tolly asked. “He has a slight edge in numbers, perhaps a quarter more than what I have. However, my men are better trained and better equipped.” “So how many men do you have? Can you give me numbers?” Keth frowned. “That is a military secret I am not willing to share with outsiders. Suffice it to say that he has greater numbers, we have greater training.” “So you see our presence as the edge you need.” Tolly said. “That is true. In addition, however, my scouts report that they have seen my brother’s followers using a kind of magic they have never seen before.” The party exchanged subtle glances. They had recently encountered ‘strange magic’ themselves – the powers of Xerxes. “What about you? Do you have any magical desert tricks?” Kavan asked. “We have our sorcerers, and our clerics of Grabâkh,” he said dismissively. “We offer the burned sacrifices, as I’m sure they do as well. They have something… strange. We do have our warsingers, a tradition that my brother appears not to favor.” Lanara nodded, recognizing ‘warsinger’ as the orcish term for the bardic tradition. “Are you a child of Grabâkh as well?” Tolly asked. “No, my own patron is Estranë,” Keth replied. “I respect Grabâkh, and pay homage to him since he brings light to the world and allows things to grow. This is why I also offer respect to Ardara, and Feesha, and even Krüsh, as they all have their place in our survival, and thus deserving of our respect.” “An enlightened view,” said Tolly. Keth nodded. “Allow me to further enlighten you as to the ways of my people. It appears none of you have been to the desert before, save perhaps this one, who carries some of our traditional weapons.” He gestured to Arrie, who had placed her orcish shotputs nearby on the floor while she ate. “I have had brief experiences with the predominant orc culture,” Arrie said. “You may notice that our women and children are not here,” Keth continued. “There are two sources of wealth in the desert – one is of use to us, and one is of use to others. The first is water. It comes from oases and natural springs, as well as the few rivers in the Haran, such as the Kruga to the north. The locations of oases are closely-guarded clan secrets; you will not find them. If you did, you would either join the clan they belong to or die. The second source of wealth is the gems that lie buried beneath the sands. The smaller, plentiful ones are as dust to us – no more than affectations. We collect and trade these to other lands for things that we lack; forged weapons, metal armor which can be worn in the desert for short periods, and such. It is these things that we protect. The families – the women, children, the aged and infirm, they stay at the oases. We do not build castles or have standing armies as they do in other lands. Secrecy and mobility are our greatest weapons. Our armies move constantly, not only to intercept raids from other clans but to strike at their oases and more profitable gem mines.” Keth leaned forward, gesturing at the party with half of a meat bundle. “We do not kill in the desert as often as most outsiders believe. A prisoner has value; the information they hold on the holdings of their clan. Those who give up that information are set free.” “But wouldn’t they be outcast from their former clan, on suspicion that they had given up information?” Lanara asked. “They would be hunted and killed, I would think,” Arrie commented. “Do you offer prisoners the option of joining your clan?” Osborn asked. “We do, though not many take it,” Keth said. “We are unique among the clans in this, as we are newly-forged. Other clans would not. This is how I have gathered many of my followers.” “Where is your mother?” Kavan asked. Keth blinked for a moment at the sudden change in subject. “She died years ago in a raid on Sargia.” “Unfortunate,” said Lanara. “It is the way of things,” he shrugged. “The desert is harsh,” the bard added. “Indeed. It tests us daily. That is why we are here; because orcs are the only race strong enough to survive in this land.” Kavan continued his questioning. “Any other siblings?” “None, except my brother. I have hordes of cousins; my father was a prolific man. Some are with me, some with my brother, others dead, or scattered among other clans.” “So, how do you wish for our assistance?” Tolly asked. “I do not wish to step too fully into clan wars.” “It’s a bit late for that,” Keth said. “If you do not wish to be involved in orcish clan wars, then in the morning my men will escort you to our borders, and you can return home.” “What I meant was that I do not wish to become permanently involved. There is a difference between assisting due to a mutually beneficial agreement, or ending up hunted by your brother’s clan for the rest of my days.” “Oh, well, if we win they will either join us or be wiped out,” Keth said dismissively. He left unspoken what would happen if his own clan lost. “What is your true concern? Is it the time involved?” “Time is not of the essence, though I have been commanded to complete this quest within a year,” Tolly said. “Let me enlighten you as to how we make war. Much of our effort is expended on information gathering – if we can’t find the enemy army, we cannot make war on them. Surprise is the most common tactic used.” “You never attack an oasis?” Tolly asked. “No, because accidents happen far too easily, and water is too precious to risk spoiling, even if it means ignoring an undefended target. It would be like blasting a pile of gold coins with a wizard’s fireball; the gold is still there, but is unusable without great effort.” Tolly was silent for a moment. “If I could have time to talk with my companions – I cannot make all of the decisions for them.” Kavan chuckled slightly at this, and Lanara and Osborn rolled their eyes. “So, they are here of their own free will?” Keth asked. “We have formed a bond,” Tolly explained. “So, they follow you freely?” Keth asked again. “Um, we travel together,” Lanara chimed in. “We have no leader,” Osborn explained. Keth seemed confused by this. Tolly quickly interjected. “Whoever is most suited to the task at hand is chosen as leader.” “Ah, this I can understand. So, who leads now?” “We are following Tolly’s quest,” Lanara explained, “but not following Tolly.” Lanara seemed unwilling to even give the impression that someone might be in charge of making decisions on her behalf. “What are you really asking?” Arrie said. “Do you wish to know who speaks for us?” When Keth indicated that was what he wanted, Lanara again stated they they spoke as a group. Tolly tried to explain that they had their own rules within the group for deciding such things. Finally, Keth held up his hands and conceded. “If you need to discuss, you need to discuss,” he said. “I will tell you this. You will not be mixed in with my troops, nor become part of my army. Your first assignment will likely be to guard the water casks. An army lives or dies by the water they carry, so they are an obvious target.” “Do you ever poison the water in your brother’s casks?” Lanara asked. “It is one tactic,” Keth agreed, “but it is difficult, as the casks are made of wood sheathed in metal, and hard to penetrate. And if we win the battle, then the water is useless to us as well.” “How far away is your brother?” Kavan asked. Keth frowned. “I cannot pinpoint his exact location, which is… vexing. I know he is relatively close, no more than a week out. Depending on which direction we travel, we could meet tomorrow, or not see each other for a month. It is the way of things.” Autumn let out a low whistle to signal Tolly. The sentinel had kept her visor closed the entire time they were in the encampment, to avoid revealing her celestial heritage and possibly causing suspicion. She leaned over and whispered something into the cleric’s ear, and he nodded. “Keth, do your clerics or sorcerers ever use summoned animals as scouts?” “It is uncommon, but not unheard of,” Keth said. “It is a careful balance between the benefit such creatures can provide, and the fact that it is yet another mouth consuming water.” “We may be able to provide some assistance in that area,” Tolly stated. “If you have such resources, they are welcome,” Keth said. “Much of our scouting, and theirs, is done through magical means, and therefore most of our defenses in that area are geared toward blocking scrying.” The group took their leave of Keth, promising that they would return with a decision in the morning. While most of the group went off to set up their tents, Osborn stayed to speak privately with Keth, and Arrie and Lanara also remained behind to further discuss orcish culture. It was fully night by they time everyone had gathered around their two tents. Kyle had conjured up an opaque hemisphere that surrounded their camp and glowed softly inside, allowing them to have enough light to talk without the light being visible from outside. A couple of the orcs in the camp had come over to barter for a portion of Osborn’s bacon, as the smoked meat was unfamiliar to them. Osborn left the exchange richer by a topaz of moderate quality. “So,” said Kyle, as soon as they were together, “at any point, did anyone else wonder if Keth was telling the truth about all this, or if he’s actually dripping evil and fooling us into doing his bidding?” “He seemed genuine to me, Kyle,” said Autumn flatly. Osborn nodded his agreement. “But, couldn’t we simply ask that before we agree to work with him that he submit to some simple divinations, to make sure?” “Well, I have faith that Ardara would not lead me to seek out this man if his outlook was opposed to hers,” Tolly said. “And both Autumn and I carry these tokens of our respective faith, which will inform us if our actions are placing our souls in danger.” “I have a question,” Arrie said. “Even if Keth is ‘evil’, does it really matter?” “As long as he is respectful of order, then his moral leanings are of lesser concern to me,” Tolly said. “I’m interested in the goals of my church, not defeating evil.” “I mean, personally, unless he’s lying, I don’t think it matters.” Arrie continued. “One side is as good as another in these kinds of conflicts. And if Keth is lying, then we go after him.” The group nodded agreement, though Kyle seemed reluctant. “Another thing that worries me is this talk of ‘a strange magic that we haven’t seen before’,” he said. “Yes, we’ve run into that before,” Tolly said. “Xerxes.” “In which case,” Osborn said, “we have an obligation to look into it. If Xerxes, or some other source of pre-Cataclysmic power is aiding Keth’s brother, then we need to know.” “I agree,” Tolly said. “The gods have forbidden that for a reason. We have an obligation to enforce that sentence.” “I think that we should just stay on water patrol,” said Autumn, “and not get any more involved than that.” “I don’t think Keth will agree to that,” Arrie said. “He probably expects us to fight.” “And it limits our options,” Osborn said. There was a bit of discussion on their role as part of Clan Hulg’s forces. Kyle, who seemed to have lost interest in the subject, went to tend the horses. “One thing I’d recommend,” Arrie interjected, “is that we provide Keth with a speaker for our group. It’s obvious that he’s very orderly, and has difficulty with our more egalitarian ways. We need to give him a face.” “Whose face might that be?” Kavan asked. “I think it should be Tolly,” Autumn said. “Is everyone comfortable with having Tolly speak for us?” asked Arrie. “I think we should have faith in him,” Autumn countered. “I don’t hate all Estranëans,” Tolly said, answering the unvoiced concerns about his last unsuccessful interaction with a representative of that faith. “The High Priest in Laeshir rubbed me the wrong way, and I was young.” “It wasn’t that long ago,” Osborn said quietly. “I would actually recommend Lanara,” Arrie said. “While Tolly is sensible, and appears to be compatible with Keth, Lanara is more worldly.” “And she’s gorgeous,” Kavan added. Lanara laughed. “I don’t think I’m his type,” she said. “Orc-touched have to come from somewhere,” Arrie observed. “He’s already got five wives,” Lanara said, “and those are probably just the ones he brought with him. What would he want with me? But hey, you want me to talk, I’ll talk.” “Well, you would be better at concealing our motives than I would,” Tolly conceded. “In the event things worked out unfavorably for us.” Arrie nodded. “Lanara is far more facile than any of us in expressing both purely what she believes, and disguising it when needed.” “You mean I’m a good liar.” “And I think,” Osborn added, “that she would be good at keeping the interests of those of us who are not so devout in mind.” The party agreed to elect Lanara their spokesperson. Kyle was filled in when he returned, and went along with the group’s decision. The group turned in for the night, although Kyle remained awake a while longer. The next morning the party arose, and watched as the sun caused an iridescent rainbow to flash across the sands of the desert. Lanara went to speak with Keth, meeting him outside his tent as his wives went about breaking it down and packing it. “I have been chosen to speak for us,” Lanara said. Keth looked slightly relieved at only having to deal with one person. “What is your decision?” “We agree to guard your water supplies,” Lanara said. Keth frowned. “I fear I have not made myself entirely clear. If you are to aid me, then I will direct what aid you will give. This is my clan, and my command. If you agree to aid me, then you will go where I say and do what I say.” Lanara nodded. “Allow me to return to my group and make certain they understand this.” Lanara went back and raised her concerns. There was some brief discussion; some felt that it was understood from the beginning that they were following Keth’s orders, others were worried that his orders might conflict with their interests. “I think,” said Autumn, “that we should clarify the extent of how far we will follow his orders; not blindly, but to a point. If we feel uncomfortable with his orders, we will not follow them.” “I don’t think that will go over well,” Lanara said. “I will not follow an order that will cause me to go against my faith.” What Autumn left unspoken was that while listening to Keth’s desire for their absolute obedience, she had felt a twinge of warning from her [I]phylactery of faithfulness[/I]; not a true sense of wrongdoing, but a sense that a blanket agreement with Keth might violate her ethics. “Perhaps we needn’t say anything about it,” Kavan offered. “Or we can be honest and tell him that some of us might have vows that could conflict with his orders,” Arrie said. “I think I can do that,” Lanara said. She and Arrie went off to find Keth, who was supervising his wives as they loaded supplies on his horses. “I believe we can agree to your terms,” Lanara said. “However, you should be aware that each of us follows a different path, and some of us have taken certain vows. Should your orders conflict with those vows, certain members of my party may not be able to comply.” “Who, and what actions?” Keth asked. “I can better speak for one of the primary objectors, as she is my sister,” Arrie said. “Autumn has taken vows as a member of the order of Sentinels. While your goals may be coterminous, there are certain actions that she cannot take.” “I am familiar with the order,” Keth said. “I think that as long as she isn’t ordered to slaughter innocents, there won’t be a problem,” Lanara said. “I have no plans to give such orders.” “Perhaps this arrangement will work,” Arrie offered. “We can agree that if a situation arises that causes problems for Autumn, she will inform you immediately and directly. And if at all possible, she will step aside.” “It is highly unlikely that her oath will be called into question. I don’t foresee my brother bringing women and children to war. Forgive me; non-combatants. We do have some warrior women among our clan. It is from these that I choose my wives.” “I noticed that your women were extremely competent,” Lanara observed. “Indeed. I like my women to be competent. I have had to best each of them in battle for their hand in marriage.” Under her breath, Lanara muttered, “Lovers and fighters, interesting.” “As I said, her vows should not be called into question. In fact, she may be able to fulfill her higher purpose – it is not unknown for our clerics and sorcerers to summon extraplanetary aid in battle.” “That would make Autumn very happy,” Arrie said. “For today,” Keth said, “we have three water wagons. Normally, they are dispersed throughout the line. However, due to the proximity of an enemy force, today we will keep the wagons together. Half my forces will ride ahead, and the other half will remain behind with the wagons as a reserve. But if they are signaled to come to battle, they will come – leaving only you and a small squad of my men on each wagon. I must admit that it is not unheard of for my brother to attack and force me to bring in my reserves, and then attack our wagons with a small reserve force of his own. His greater numbers allow him to utilize such a tactic. You will ride with the wagons, and do whatever you feel is necessary to defend them if needed. An encampment will be prepared by nightfall. We will not make a full encampment for many days.” “What is our authority in relation to the guards?” Arrie asked. “Each squad has a captain, and there will also be a commander.” Keth nodded to Lanara. “You are the captain of your squad, and will report to the commander. Obey him as you would me – he knows what is needed for survival here, you do not. The other captains have no authority over you.” Lanara and Arrie returned to find Tolly tracing intricate designs in the sand. He sat chanting and burning incense for a few minutes. Suddenly, the sand inside the circle began to swirl like a whirlwind, and emerging from the sand came a large wolfhound. The dog sat patiently, looking at Tolly. Arrie gasped, and looked truly delighted at the sight. “We are looking for a certain amount of assistance,” Tolly said to the dog. “We need to find the location of the opponent of the orc, Keth, with whom we are currently allied. And we need knowledge as to what this ‘unfamiliar magic’ that he has mentioned might be.” The dog sat back on its haunches, wagging its tail and panting. Then it grinned, and cocked its head to the side. “I’m so disappointed in you, Tolly Mulholland,” the dog said. “You get one task from me, and one task only. Which would you like me to perform?” Tolly nodded, seemingly oblivious to being addressed by the name ‘Mulholland’, even though it was one none of his companions had ever heard. “I am more concerned as to the nature of this magic,” Tolly said. “My worry is that it is pre-Cataclysmic in nature, such as we have encountered in the recent past.” “What do you offer for this task?” the dog asked. Tolly frowned and thought for a moment. Meanwhile, Arrie reached out and petted the dog’s head. “I’m not certain how long this will take,” Tolly said at last. “Perhaps you have some suggestions as to what you are looking for?” “You have some renown as a weaponsmith, yes?” the dog asked. “Yes.” “Excellent.” The dog suddenly stood up on its hind legs, stretching upward, and kept going up until he was standing fully upright. His paws had been replaced by human hands and feet, though his head was unchanged. The hound archon reached behind his back and pulled out a greatsword that had appeared there, placing the point in the sand and resting his hands across the pommel. “We have battles with Feesha’s followers from time to time. Though I am strong, her followers also have certain vulnerabilities. What I desire is for a blade such as this, forged of alchemical silver.” “I will have time to finish this task before I start yours?” Tolly asked. “Of course. These things take time. But it must be at your first opportunity.” “Agreed.” Tolly spent a few minutes taking measurements and asking questions about grip and balance. Then the hound archon transformed back into its canine form, and trotted out into the desert, vanishing a few yards away. Autumn took a moment to summon a celestial companion of her own – a hawk – that immediately took to wing and circled high into the sky. The party mounted their horses and rode into position near the water wagons as they began to roll out. Soon the entirety of Clan Hulg, plus eight additional members, was on the move into the deep desert. [/QUOTE]
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