HT Alias/Player          Character Name    Type    Status/Notes  Sex
  -- -----------------------------------------------------------------
  R1.John Haight...........Arawn.............Druid  .Normal/Alfar  Ma
  ??.Chris Wells...........Ben'dar...........Warrior.Normal/Human  Ma
  R1.Tom Corckett..........Caladan...........Wizard  Normal/Human  Ma
  W2.Marcel Liberty........Chion.............Sailor..Normal/Human  Ma
  W3.Ryan Torres...........Farseeker.........Warrior.Normal/Human  Ma
  .........................Fu Sa.............Guard...................
  --.Tobie Bonahoom........Fremea............Sidh....Normal/Faerry Fe
  R2.Mark Murtha...........Kell..............Trader..Normal/Human..Ma
  Do.David Sanders.........Kiet.Sunan........Acrobat Normal/Human  Ma
  R?.J H Hooten............Raban.Usherwood...Bard....Normal/Human..Ma
  W2.Robert Maxwell........Strie'bog.........Bard....Normal/Human..Ma
  W4.Wout Broere...........Unali.............Ninja...Normal/Human  Fe
  R4.Alex Koponen..........Z'leyra...........Healer..Normal/Human  Fe
     Animals: Corona [Eagle] Z'leyra, Boyzdar [Wolf] (Strie'bog),
             
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     Private emails (not public actions) to longshot@darktech.org
                                               
     Game Update #3 in sequence (file #23)      
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     Admin Notes: None. 
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     [Recap]

        From Raban: [Re: Oblivion]
          Just a quick response on this:
          PnP in a few places has stated that innate powers cannot Abysmal,
          in others it says spells powered by Enl cannot abysmal. Thus the
          straight answer would be [No], no Abysmal no sent to Oblivion

          BUT since you do not use the same Abysmal System, that aspect
          was wide open again anyway.

          I like your approach on Ptoth, it does make it interesting when
          you have to wonder what could happen to what you send away.
          Personally I would not automatically let it go with the caster
          but make that an option for added cost. One early use is to send
          something away so you can escape, that use is gone if it is
          attached to you as you cant get away. If Attached relative to
          the caster then it can be abused by relocating the return point
          over a cliff etc

          And here is the fun problem, if the anchor is the caster and he
          gets sent away by an abysmal....he cannot ever return! Permanent
          Statue in Ptoth's garden Or one that wakes and wanders about
          after the duration expires
        GM: Ack.  That thing on Aby was not me.  When I did searches of
            my files for the spell I found that part.  It was back when
            Alex was highly active in the pnp list.  He had talked back
            and forth with Richard on various rule errata.  So that's not
            my comments at all.  Just a entry I found about it.  I do use
            the basic Aby rules - with Burton's chart in mind.  I just
            have the belief that folks who might get 123% success with
            a spell with items, luck and everything in the book is just
            not solid.  There is ALWAYs a chance of failure even with
            a 100% for combat or magic.  This is fate working through
            gods.  So in my system though its slim and rare it does
            happen.  The gods might not be keen on the event or person.
            So in that regard yes I believe fate should have a hand.
            I had considered the cost factor.  I couldn't come up
            with a straight answer.  But when I consider the item
            rules I will likely think on it more.  Yep.  From now on
            I'm considering stronger god influence.  We have two bards,
            an Alfar, priests and such.  But while folks don't go
            around praying (though Arawn does) all the time and chanting
            the gods names.  As a group as a culture we tend to blur
            that in the game.  It is assumed.  Most players simply don't
            have time for the religion and just want to get onto the
            role playing.  So a more mythos-god oriented spell system
            may be forth coming.  I may have to take it spell by spell
            for now.  If there is grounds for it.  Like with Poteth and
            certain spells that is. 


        Post from Kiet: [Re: Oblivion]
          I have a great idea...let's send someone to Oblivion and then
          build a solid pillar in that place and see what happens when he
          returns... sounds like fun...except for the volunteer.
          heehee

          Kiet says, "Well, I am not one for arguing about how we do
        GM: Ack.  See Stargate? Gate shields. :)  I will cast your votes
            like for Unali.  

        From Kell: [Re: Votes]
          Cover Story vote: C. Noble group.  With Frema a betrothed royal.

          Method of Travel - E. ship (Teleport second)
        GM: Ack. Thanks now if I can get others to vote. :)

        From Raban: [Re: Actions]
          It takes a little while for it to sink in, but Raban finally...
        GM: Ack. 

        From Raban: [Re: Reply to Kell]
          <I have always wanted to have Raban walk into town carrying his
          horse to the stable and have him complain that it's shoe broke.
          <But while he can lift most horses over his head currently, that
          does not mean he can walk very well with one like that!
          <Maybe once he gets to his full strength but that could take
          years ;) <Now a nice steel club like Oni use, a Tetsubo, weighing
          as much as a human could work ;)
          <Maybe heavier is better?
          <So what is the weight limit of a weapon based on the characters
          strength? And what is its WSB?
          <Scary weapon but of little use without the skill, though a
          WSB+10 could be interesting to use
          <Raban taps him lightly with his massive Tetsubo and he collapses
        GM: Ack. 

        From Kell: [Re: Actions]
          Ha!  Kell almost laughs and spills his beer, thinking of Raban
          playing a huge dumb giant with a 4 foot long tree with bloody
          spikes in it, grunting and smashing small trees with his free
          hand, tossing around people that look at him wrong, winning
          tug-o-war contests against entire troops, eating raw meat, and
          all the other things people think of for enforcers.  Or Raban
          decked out in shiny chain mail with two two-handed great swords,
          one in each hand, scowling at people half his size.  Either of
          those are great enforcers...

          "Master Ki'ama, how soon can Zhou meet us, or can he meet us at port?
        GM: Ack. 

        From Raban: [Re: Votes]
          <Vote? lets see Raban wanted to be entertainers but lastly has
          changed that as not being compatible with the group <Merchant or
          Entertainers will have too many problems <So currently Vote would
          be for Noble party or some variant of that as being more doable

          <As to magic? Best solution is likely stock pile them somewhere
          for teleport and fetch?
          <Raban just spent a lot on magic but does not require it, though
          it will be useful in the big fights!
        GM: Ack. 

        From Arawn: [Re: Long last actions :)]
          Arawn had sat in silence as Ki'ama and the group discussed...
        GM: Ack. 


     -----------------------------------------------------------------
     [New Stuff]


        [Time: 10:00am - Currently at the meeting...]

            Kiet says, "Well, I am not one for arguing about how we do
        things.  My votes will be to join with whatever our logical
        leader, Unali, of this expedition decides.  I will merely help as
        I can."

            Through Raban's thick skull it finally sinks in and he seems
        to understand why the Elder replied as he did.  "My apologies High
        Elder, I must have said something wrong. I never intended playing
        the role of a Noble but as a Noble's Guardian. One who could look
        scary enough to keep away a large part of the problem people. Even
        non criminals would be intimidated by my presence if I played a
        more aggressive guardian role."

            "That," Ki'ama starts, "I have no doubt.  I never thought you
        would have been the noble.  I am only saying an outsider is
        more limited on what they can do.  If in eastern Katai one would
        be expected to visit the capital for routine politics.  But
        a Katai noble like Unali, Chion or Zhou could pass and go about
        their own business easier."

            "Master Ki'ama," Kell asks, "how soon can Zhou meet us, or can
        he meet us at port? What about your apprentice, is this person
        ready for the Journey?  The Wheel in the Sky won't stop turning
        for us..."

            Ki'ama raises a hand up, "Fellow so tall." He lowers his hand
        and grins.  "You meet him outside when you had your bodies scanned
        by Suca's guard.  So he'll be ready...when I inform him.  I'm
        sure he...relish the duty to perform for his land, his lord and
        the people of the middle world." Ki'ama gives a wicked smile.
        "But try not to kill him.  He is one of my best aides.  So try
        to return him in some solid form.  As to my apprentice the same
        for him.  Both can be ready in just a few hours."

            Kia'ma seems to have slowed down and eyes the party. "It seems
        we have asked much of what is basically need.  Let's take a vote
        on which method you want."  With that he takes a poll from each
        person.  Some vote quickly and clearly.  Some like Raban change
        votes from entertainment group to noble group.  Others simply
        don't speak up or don't seem to know yet.

            When it is time to get to Caladan he speaks up, "I vote for
        the noble option and ship.  While teleport would certainly be
        faster it would require at least three maybe four jumps.  A
        lot of energy for Chion and we don't know if the Katai can
        detecf such single massive spells at one time?  A ship would
        allow us to spread our cover story a bit more evenly.  We
        could visit that city on the peniinsula there." Caladan points
        to the map.  "Ship may take us a good few weeks it will allow
        folks to form a more solid cover story and approach.  Yes,
        time is dire but we may also need a quick getaway, the ship
        in this case, if we are being tracked and unable to use magic
        for teleport or such.  Course Chion could also be killed,
        though unlikely.  So Unali's plan seems more solid to me."

            Farseeker also perks up when asked, "I agree with Unali's
        plan as well.  She being a native knows the land better than
        all but Chion, maybe even more so.  She will best be our
        travel guide and culture customs guide.  In fact I think she
        could be our mission leader to quickly decide things on the
        run, like Kiet or was it Kell suggested?  So ship and noble
        group is good for me.  I'll be glad to be a guard."

            Ki'ama claps his hands together and rubs them.  "All right,
        at least seven of you wish to be the noble group. Based on my
        calculation that is a good majority.  But method of travel
        isn't as clear with only five wanting ship.  So what now?"

            Unali sits patiently and watches the group.  For awhile she
        has seen how females are treated in places like the plains
        and even Katai.  To be heard, understood, respected and even
        taken seriously is a good feeling.  She turns to Ki'ama and
        speaks in Katai.  "Fine, we should collect our gear and horses and
        move to the coast to find a suitable boat. That brings us to the
        matter of what gear we need and what we leave behind. Personally, I
        would like to bring all items along, magic or otherwise. I want to
        try out this new armor. And I fear we can use them against the
        Vong. On the way we can devise a way to hide them on the ship
        and later on a wagon. So we need tools to make such boltholes
        possible, and someone with the skills required. Kell? Anyone
        else?  We also need the adornments to fit the story. So new
        clothing of superb quality is needed for all. I have some
        dresses, but I need suitable travel clothing. I guess most of us
        do. Would Oby know where to round up some clothes, because if
        everything is to made from scratch we will lose time."

            Ki'ama smiles again, "Tools can be supplied.  I have taken the
        liberty getting Oby to get some gear and clothing ahead of time.
        He should have those for you now.  We did have to guess on some
        measurements but for others like Raban it has been tailored.
        I have sent my fastest messenger to summon a ship in the east.
        By the time you get there he should have one reserved or at
        least waiting."  Ki'ama stands and goes over to the map of the
        Dark Lands.  "I sent him north east through Novasa's land.
        Novasa has ships land in his domain from Chosai and Lemasa
        every so often.  If you had gone due west you would go through
        Itom's domain and might not be so wise.  If you went south-east
        you might get the attention of certain people."  Those in
        the party can read between the lines knowing that the Sorceress
        in that direction. "Either way it is about 50 odd miles to the
        coast from here in all three directions.  You could get there
        in day and half no more than two.  Novasa should not have an
        issue with you in his land.  The messenger sent word ahead of
        time.  Usually this time of year at least one or two ships
        arrive to supply his domain with Lemasan food like fruits.  He
        has a bit of a craving for them.  So those merchant ships would
        be empty and perfect.  Assuming one is there.  If not you will
        have to travel south east along the coast to other ports.  There
        isn't any major ports just sea fishing villages really.  The
        ships have to send everything by smaller boat to unload and
        anchor off shore.  Your lucky since in winter we might only
        have one to three total arrive.  Now with spring here that
        will be likely one a week to as much as five a week.  Some
        of the Chaos masters do like their imported luxury goods."

            Ki'ama turns to Unali, "So my dear, do you want to play
        the role of noble or as Zhou's daughter or niece?  Zhou can
        play the noble if you so wish it to be and you could be a simple
        guard.  The decision is up to you.  You two can even decide
        that en route.  Are there any more questions or comments?"

            Arawn had sat in silence as Ki'ama and the group discussed
        plans for the mission. He turned his head slightly as he regarded
        the various speakers along with a quiet but warm welcome smile
        directed Kell's way before deciding to add his own voice to the
        mix.

            "I," Arawn begins, "think the idea of a local noble is a fine
        idea but there are a few weak areas we should fix. Right now it
        seems that we only have three, maybe four, among the group that
        can pass for locals. Considering the size of the group we might
        wish to work on why there are so many foreigners amongst the
        entourage. Though guards, scholars, nobles, and even entertainers
        have been mentioned I do not feel that it is believable for a noble
        to hire so many outsiders when a noble would be more likely to pull
        the competent from the local flock. I suggest that one of us
        'outsiders' should play someone befriended by the noble, or at
        least someone the noble wishes to befriend. The position should be
        one of apparent affluence. An outside noble would be expected to
        make for the capitol but I think a very wealthy and powerful
        foreign merchant could prove believable. The rest of the outsiders
        would be linked to the merchant as servants or even family. It
        would fit with a noble's background, bringing a powerful friend or
        ally along to show him or her the wonders of the noble's country.
        while still maintaining freedom of movement. As for our journey, I
        think the idea of coming in by boat to be the most reasonable. We
        are in a race for time with a completely unknown deadline. At the
        same time we must secure the believability of our ruse. Travelling
        by ship seems to be the best choice in my eyes, a balance between
        speed and covering our identity. In regards to the issue of magical
        items and threat of aural readings, I have no problem leaving
        magical items behind for this journey. In fact I actually relish
        the idea as an opportunity to practice my skills and abilities
        without the crutch of such tools. After all, one never knows when
        the option of magic could be stripped from us and we are left to
        fend for ourselves with only our wits and abilities. Still, it
        seems that some here strongly desire to have relatively easy access
        to their items for this journey. The use of mana shields is one
        option, though timing is key with this. Also, could everyone be
        covered in time? Oblivion has its own issues as has been discussed.
        I, for one, would opt for teleporting our items when we are aware
        that they will be needed. This minimizes detection, though without
        the use of shields some of  our enchanters may yet be detected by
        their vast magical potential. The wagon is another idea though I
        can say from experience that a strong aura of magic could be
        detected even through several feet of stone so hidden compartments
        would likely be most useful for mundane searches but not against
        the mystic sensors. If we still wish a specialized wagon made
        perhaps with the use of Transmutation it can be brought over with
        a teleport, maybe switched out for another wagon if such is
        recorded. Personally though I think it best to leave items behind
        for now. At least until we get a better feel for things in Katai."

            Ki'ama nods an agreement to several points.  He raises a hand
        to interrupt.  "In fact a lot of nobles, especially in Lower Katai,
        hire on outside servants, slaves and fighters.  After all one
        can depend on family and locals.  But loyalty by cash is far
        better than some locals.  So it is common for outsiders to be
        with nobles in most places.  On the border regions you have
        forest people from Chosai, L'p'nth slaves, cerulean house slaves,
        lemasan bond servants and the like.  So don't fear so much in
        that regard as a group it would be fine.  More attention would
        be given for say Raban walking on a street by himself rather than
        carrying the noble in his arms on a satin carry-chair."

            Arawn waited to see if there would be any replies before
        continuing.  "As to the Vong, I would like to add a few more bits
        of information to help us decide on how best to approach dealing
        with them. In might be a good idea to have others continue research
        on the Vong in our absence, or with the judicious use of
        teleportation, perhaps some of us could do so, returning to the
        party afterwards or on a recurring basis during the party's travel.
        There has been talk of gateways between our worlds but a location
        has yet to be discovered. Before leaving Marentia Kaylle mentioned
        a scholar friend who had read a travel journal which described an
        odd skeleton wearing desiccated crab-like armor found in some
        remote mountain. She could not recall the book but she might have
        discovered something since we parted ways. This could fit with the
        image of the mountain I saw during a vision in which I sought
        further knowledge on the Vong."

            Farseeker perks up, "I doubt it would be of any good.  If
        he was dead we couldn't learn much.  We already met one Vong dead in
        the graves being opened on the Plains.  That is where we got the
        Claw," he points to the Claw on the table, "he had a staff as
        well long dead.  Likely from the first invasion and war.  I'm sure
        the book found another such Vong in another place."

            "He is right," Ki'ama starts, "I doubt much more can be learned.
        The gods are unwilling to give answers or simply can't.  The book
        in question likely was written long ago before the present and thus
        would be likely from the first war.  But you are free to do any
        research you need to do."

            Arawn pulls out a scroll from a stone case, unfurling it to
        reveal a mountain that was skillfully drawn and painted.

            "I," Arawn speaks up and raises the scroll up a bit for all to
        see, "commissioned this after my vision to capture the image and
        perhaps help us locate it later on. It might not be connected but I
        have to wonder. On top of that Kaylle also mentioned that during an
        attempt to inquire about the Vong the Royal Archivist evaded the
        topic and seemed to be holding something back. She said that she
        would look into it if possible and I can only hope that she has
        pulled extra information since we last spoke. Beyond Kaylle, there
        are the stories of plains people. Someone had mentioned that some
        of the shamans were trained specifically to deal with the threat
        posed by the Vong. Would it be possible for one of us, Caladan or
        Z'leyra most likely due to background, to meet with such a shaman
        for further information or even training, if only briefly?"

            "Now the scroll might be of use." Ki'ama replies, "but there
        are many mountains.  It will be difficult finding the right one
        unless you just happen on it.  Our ritual will help pinpoint
        an area I hope."

            "It doesn't take much to figure out the archivist." Farseeker
        speaks up to Arawn, "if King Maros didn't want a panic on his
        hands.  After all would the people benefit knowing the gods have
        no control over a race of beings or who or what they are?  He
        probably is aware through ancient edict long before King Maros,
        who might not even know the facts, to stay quiet on the subject.
        I'm sure the kingdom has records since it might come back to
        bite if another invasion.  But as far as other information it
        might be a bit time consuming to learn those facts.  But you
        know where he is, in Maren city." He waves a hand to the left,
        "that way about 2,000 miles or so."

            Passing the mountain scroll around Arawn then carefully pulled
        forth another scroll, singed in places, the air suddenly smelling
        of burnt wood when the case is opened. "We also have this, a scroll
        found in the cabin at the edge of the Vassa woods."

            Ki'ama approaches to examine the scroll, his eyes widen when
        he reads it as Katai.  He glances at Arawn in surprise.  "I...
        this was found in the Boya area? Interesting..."

            The scroll itself is tanned and scared by some source of heat.
        For those present at the Bova cabin battle it was a heat spell
        ward gone badly for the cabin.  It is wrinkled and crinkled in
        many places where it seems the ink in some places is missing.
        In Katai it reads:

            "The Plan is set in motion.  Nom has seen to connections in
        ---- ---- (missing ink or destroyed].  The Brain is almost ready in
        Rising Mount.  The House is supportive.  Major operations [burnt
        text here but looks like word "are"] are in action. Soon the time
        of [---destroyed text---]-Harla will be set.
            Product will be expected in one season.  Be careful of locals.
        kill anything that hinders Product.  Nom will send Attendant to
        collect Product.
            You are only to oversee Product development not interfere in
        operations of Growers.  No contact should be made unless in extreme
        emergency."
            At the bottom of the scroll is some symbol of what could be a
        animal wrestling another animal as if in a circle one on top of
        each other. 

            Ki'ama waves Suca forward to read it and hands it to him. He
        glares briefly at Arawn then calms down. "This should've been
        shown last week.  This is an important document, one clearly
        written by or to the Vong.  This Nom I don't know but could
        be anyone.  The Rising mount to my knowledge isn't any specific
        place but I'm not been in Katai in a long time.  This could
        be their base of operations.  This house mentioned makes me
        worried.  If a Katai house is working with the Vong it could
        be disaster." He places hand to chin and strokes briefly before
        he continues.  "This product must be the staff, orbs and other
        things grown at Lake Oca.  Makes sense now.  They must need
        certain places to grow such things, as Strie'bog allowed us
        to reason that piece of the puzzle.  One season has passed or
        almost so time could be critical but it may already be too late.
        I hope now.  No.  It may not be.  I'd have heard word of a
        massive invasion in Katai.  Even my contacts would've been
        alert to such a threat.  So there must be time still.  It is
        good they didn't contact them before you killed them.  They
        might have been warned.  So it could be they don't know of any
        problem at the Lake.  Strie'bog would've told us if there
        were other Vong sightings.  So that tells me this attendant
        person didn't or hasn't shown up yet.  There is still time.
        They likely need the Product before they can move on with
        these other operations."

            Suca scans the document, nods to the Elder, then hands the
        scroll back to Arawn.  Suca then returns back to his place on
        the back wall.  Arawn hands it to others to read if they can
        read Katai at least. 

            "A Katai man," Arawn continues, "in military clothing was
        present in the cabin in which this was found. This leads me to
        believe that at least some part of military is involved in dealings
        with the Vong. As for Rising Mount, possibly the mountain discussed
        earlier, and the mention of Harla, they remain a mystery to me but
        perhaps our esteemed host, the High Elder, might have some insight.
        If not then our contact will hopefully grant some insight. I have
        been told Chu Yu is a common name but if the military is involved
        we might be able to further narrow our search. However, our
        greatest clue to narrowing things down might be the sigil at the
        bottom (the wrestling animals). Is this familiar to anyone?"

            "Chu  Yu was his name the military guy?" Ki'ama asks.  "A
        common name.  If you had kept the uniform or maybe recall its
        house insignia it might be easier to track down.  Maybe when
        you get to Katai you can look there.  My contact indeed might
        be able to help there as well.  This information is certainly
        more helpful now known."

            As Ki'ama stands and considers the information just now
        revealed, Arawn turns to Kell and replies a bit late on the
        poisons.  "Aside from magical items we may or may not have ready,
        it is within my power to cure the taint of poison. Of course I can
        only deal with so many at a time." He finished his sentence with a
        pensive look, some idea seeming to form in his mind.

            Arawn turns around and notices Ki'ama is still close by only a
        couple feet.  While the others chat quietly about the new
        information and what it could mean Arawn recalls what the Elder
        spoke of the face wrap and warnings about the gods and his vies.
        minutes earlier. Arawn dipped his head graciously, acknowledging
        Ki'ama's advice. At the same time he thought over the words directed
        toward him in regards to the omnitraits, or lack thereof, of the
        gods. Most seemed to think he would fall into the common mindset
         shared by the immortals that danced in the higher realms, both
         as an Alfar and as a mouthpiece and hand for them considering
         his druidic training but he did not. He had always been different
         from his brethren, in more ways than one, and his views both
         alienated him to some and endeared him to others.

            Arawn speaks low to the High Elder, "Thank you for your insight,
         High Elder Ki'ama. In truth I have never shared such an outlook.
         The gods represent various forces of existence and serve a great
         purpose upholding, representing, perhaps even creating some aspect
         of reality. That there continued existence impacts various parts
         of the three worlds cannot be doubted, nor the importance they
         serve in maintaining the fabric of existence. Nevertheless, while
         I respect the power and wisdom of those in my home realm, with
         great deference to my parents of course, I have always recognized
         that they are neither omniscient, omnipotent, or omnipresent,
         though some seem to come close. I am keenly interested in the
         primordial to better understand the nature of things and believe
         in a higher state of being than even that of the gods. Mother Dana
         and her peers created the world yet I wonder, from whence did they
         come? What lay before them or above them? I strongly believe that
         with proper enlightenment all beings can eventually ascend to
         higher states of existence, such as those mortals who have been
         elevated to the ranks of the divine, but I think there are higher
         levels still. Some, like the gods, are closer to such a potential
         ascension than, say, mortals, but there are pros and cons to both.
         Mortals may have a longer, more difficult road to travel but the
         gods have great responsibilities to the world and its inhabitants
         that occupy their time in addition to the danger of becoming
         side-tracked by the danger of hubris through their own extreme
         knowledge and power. I seek enlightenment, and what I learn I
         hope to share with those that are ready and to heal the hurts of
         the worlds and perhaps bring them together once again in a golden
         age of peace. Difficult as this might be I will work steadily at
         this, using the ancient wisdom passed down amongst the Sidh and
         shared with men as well as learn what wisdom there is to be found
         in this world as well. I can only hope for the best and trust that
         those I travel with strive for a better world as well."

            As Arawn ends, he notices the room has fallen silent.  For
         the first time, aside from Kell, some have truly seen a part
         of him not seen before.  They understand him better and feel
         relieved at the thought.  So does Ki'ama, who raises an eyebrow
         at first then sighs in relief as if talking about such things
         in front of a Alfar might ruin the end result.  Ki'ama opens
         his mouth briefly to speak but then closes it and just nods
         in acknowledgement.

        Actions? Comments?

        Next Update...Monday...May 4th. 

        GM: Well a small update but good enough.  Had to add Arawn's stuff
            at the last minute.  I will be here all weekend until Monday
            morning.  I will definitely check email all weekend but not
            sure about monday morning.  Then I will return 5/2 in the
            morning and will see what the week brings.  Enjoy the short
            break before we continue.

        GM: Votes and tally section - N/V - No Vote

            1) Cover story
               A) Entertainment troupe     B) Merchant/trade group
               C) Noble group              D) A+B
               E) A+B+C                    F) Other, not mentioned above
               G) Don't care               H) Abstain 

                  Player      Vote          Player     Vote
               Arawn           C         Ben'dar         B 
               Caladan         C         Chion           A
               Farseeker       C         Fremea         N/V
               Kell            C         Kiet            C
               Raban           C         Strie'bog       C 
               Unali           C         Z'leyra         C  
               New Player     N/V

               Total: 13, Majority is 7
               A: 1, B: 1, C: 9, N/V: 2
               Votes cast: 12 of 13

            2) Method of Travel
               A) Teleport                 B) Overland, SW - Plains
               C) Overland, due south      D) Overland, SE, Chosai
               E) By ship down coastline   F) Other
               G) Don't care               H) Abstain 

                  Player      Vote          Player     Vote
               Arawn           E         Ben'dar         B
               Caladan         E         Chion          N/V
               Farseeker       E         Fremea         N/V
               Kell            E         Kiet            E
               Raban          N/V        Strie'bog      N/V
               Unali           E         Z'leyra         H
               New Player     N/V

               Total: 13, Majority is 7
               b: 1, E: 6, N/V: 5, H: 1
               Votes Cast: 8 of 13

            Note: If I have your vote wrong let me know.  I have placed
            them based on comments in your posts and best guess.  I
            will figure out majority as best I can.  If you wish to
            change your vote you can.  This is the quickest way to
            resolve these issues.  If you vote don't care  I will put
            your vote in the group with the highest votes.  If abstain
            then it won't count at all same as for N/V no vote.


        GM:  Vote results

             Travel cover story: Clearly 9 of 13 is a majority.  So
               we'll go with Noble group.  Even if Fremea and the
               new guy voted it might not matter.
             Travel method: No clear majority here.  Only 6 (1 vote
               shy of majority) are ship.  So at this point have no
               choice to consider ship as is for now while I go on
               the cruise (so I can get in that mindset).  For those
               who didn't vote on travel method: Chion, Fremea, Strie'bog
               and Raban you could clearly make it a majority if you
               wish to vote before end of the weekend (subtle hint).

        GM: Now assuming noble group.  Here is your homework assignment
            while I'm sailing.  You guys can continue to dicker this
            out but it could be weeks before things are settled but
            if you want to sway votes another way do so.  It is
            up to you guys.  But for now will consider Noble by ship
            likely will be it.  If Zhou is to be the noble unless
            Unali wants the job and maybe Chion as weight challenged
            uncle (:)) or some sort let me know.  You guys can dicker
            that more if you want.  Mainly if you want to assign your
            roles as Guard, Scribe, etc.  You can do so.  If you want
            to come up with Aliases I can put those and the Alias
            character type in the roster.  Now, assuming all horses
            will be taken in case of land travel a wagon can be paid
            for in Katai and worked on if needed.  Your big assignment
            will be to let me know what you take.  In terms of personal
            and magical items.  So I can keep a record of this.  If
            you want to list items for folks to later smuggle or such
            you can post that.  But keep in mind the sailing will be
            weeks of travel in terms of our time and game time.  So
            there will be plenty of time for smuggle and shield stuff.
            Mainly let me know if you keep this dagger and that shield
            or that amulet here in the dark lands to be picked up
            later.  I will mark those as indicated.  If you take all
            that's fine and your choice.  If you will just leave a
            couple things then you can list them but if 90% of the
            stuff you take is on the sheet you might reverse it and
            just say your leaving/list the 10%.  Whichever is easier
            to handle.  Can cut/paste the lines or simply list item
            names.  That's it.  Get to it.  No cheating!  Example
            of roster change for Farseeker is above. 

        GM: I can answer emails till sunday night late.  I don't know
            about monday morning yet.  I doubt I will do any computer
            stuff on board - god forbid the withdrawals!  If I get
            captured by pirates it is your duty to divide up the
            ransom 12 or so ways right guys?