Fort Weyr - Ground Entrance - SW Bowl
The dominant feature of the southern end of the bowl is the blue lake that fills the entire southern tip and the rockslide that tumbles down into its far side. It has been many, many, turns since the slide took place, but it still stands uncleared to this day. Occasionally, smaller pebbles tumble down to splash into the waters of the lake below, but the mass seems mostly stable. Sturdy fences mark the feeding pens that the dragons may choose their meals from, located against the west face. The beasthold here is minor, small cramped buildings, used mostly to maintain the herds which feed the dragons. The major beasthold is located out in the forests, just outside the Weyr. There's a sign which warns "that beasts in this location are fair game to the dragons" and that any domestic pleasure stock should be kept in the major beasthold location.
The other feature that does not go unnoticed in this bowl is the large cavernous archway. There seems to be cobble stone laid down near the archway, which causes a clatter when the wagons and trading caravans arrive. Indeed, it seems that there's a tunnel out of the bowl here, wide enough for two trader caverns to fit through and possibly a small blue dragon. To the opposite end, the great bowl stretches away far, leading to some very interesting locations.
Big flakes of snow falls from the sky today, the sun shielded out. Hey, the weather cannot cooperate everyday! Still, it makes for a bit of realism for those going out today to participate in the second day of games. It doesn't seem like this game is a joke. It seems to be rather serious by the looks of equipment piled in two groups. Anything that a person would need in a real search and rescue situation has been dumped in piles. One yellow pile and one red pile. Not only is this a game where the object is to retreive a victim, but the equipment is provided to keep the gamers from becoming victims themselves. Heavy coats, boots, snow shoes, hiking poles, climbing ropes, pocket knives, food, water in contains that don't freeze, packs, sleds. Who says that search and rescue was easy?
Kessa stands inbetween the piles of equipment with her hood pulled up and a scarf around her face. She shivers lightly in the wind that tussels and throws the snow around. Once she sees people gathering, she calls them in, nodding toward one of Thunderbird wingriders. The man is tall and his dragon is not that far from him. A large brown all geared up with some of the same equipment piled on the ground. Beside his brown are a three other dragons and three more riders. All are also geared up with search and rescue equipment. A blue and another two browns.
V'ine walks into the south bowl. His jacket kept close trying to keep some of the cold out. He gives a small sigh. "It's sharding cold. It's better then between though not by much."
Xhaine lived at the Harper Hall for quite a long time, so cold doesn't bother him all that much. Strolling up to Fort's Weyrwoman, he salutes to her, looking over the piles of equipment. "Huh, guess they're divided equally then." he remarks. "Wouldn't like one team to have an unfair advantage, after all!" heh. "Which one's for Ista?"
Milodann arrives bundled up in his own clothes and looking curious. He drifts toward the crowd and looks around, seeing faces that he knows, but mostly focused on the Weyrwoman. "Someone told me they needed some team members, ma'am?" he asks. "So I thought I'd come over, since I'm done in the Infirmary for the day." He grins. "Let's shoe them what we're made of!" He tucks he be-gloved hands under his armpits and huffs white breath into the snow-laden air, his dark, almond-shaped eyes smiling.
Elyciana crunches over the frozen ground and snow, weaving her way around patches of ice to find the safest way through the milling crowds towards the gathering point. As usual, she's bundled herself tightly against the winter cold - fleece-lined coat, gloves and scarf. That doesn't seem to help her or keep her from shivering every so often, her shoulders hunched against the onslaught of weather. Some of those little puffy snowflakes keep sticking into her amber hair, which looks rather odd from afar. Not to mention, she keeps pausing to try to swat them away as though they were annoying vtols rather than snow. Soo she finds herself standing in front of the daunting piles of equipment, "Shards." Her breath comes out in a puff as she eyes the piles, "Here's hoping I don't get lost."
Jayashri jogs in from the center bowl, wearing her long coat, hat, scarf, gloves and snow boots. She means serious business today! She slows as she gets near the equipment and riders, a shiver rolling down her spine as a gust of wind drives some cold into her bones. Her flock of firelizards is presently nowhere to be seen. Perhaps they have more sense to stay indoors than the CompCrafter. "Am I too young to sign up?" she asks, trying to look tall, standing on her tip-toes and all. She's taller than A'di, at least. "Oh, hey Milo. You gonna try too?"
Devarn is not used to the cold at all, shivering and tightening the coat he barely remembered to bring. Joining those assembled, he says by way of introduction, "I've never been this freezing in my life… All for fun, right?" His brown fire-lizard, Rust, is huddled against him under his coat with its eyes glittering in the shadow. Looking around at the others, he grins. "I'm ready if you all are, here's to a good hunt!"
Kessa pulls down her scarf and waves her arms to get some attention, though the thunderbird's brown roars a bit to quiet the area. Kessa side glances at the Fortian brownrider, nodding her thanks. She clears her throat, "Welcome to the second day of the Winter Games. Today's event is our Search and Rescue game. We've got real Search and Rescue riders on hand that will be keeping track of you all, so that we don't have a real emergency. If we do however, they will be ready. We've also healers on standby. But, without further delay, I'll introduce you to R'tan, rider of brown Steineth." The man lifts his hand at the acknowledgement, thanking the Weyrwoman loudly enough before he comes forward.
"Ladies and gentlemen. Today's game is not to be taken lightly. The conditions outside can be dangerous. If you feel any limbs getting numb or feel yourself getting disoriented, we've provided you with a smoke flare. We'll see the emergency signal and be there to pick you up. If at any time you feel in danger, stop. A game is not worth endangering yourselves." He folds up his arms, smirking at the crowd, "But it is a game. So, the two teams are Team Ista, whose got the yellow supplies and Team Fort, whose got the red. Everyone interested, step toward the teams you wish to be on and name a captain." He pauses, "The game is straight forward. You'll follow the clues given to you and try to track down your victim. It'll be a stuffed dummy. The first team to return safely with their victim will win. Quesitons?"
Xhaine's gaze flickers from one pile to the other. Er… red? Which one's red? He squints at one pile, then the other, and tries to remember his brother's words. Um… surreptitiously he glances around to see where people are heading.
Milodann sidles closer to Elyciana. "If you get lost, send your firelizard for help," he says, quite serious. His own green Emmy is tucked into the front of his coat, keeping warm. There is no sign of gold Lucy. He nods at Ashri, "Yeah, I am. Figured, why not?" He nods and smiles at Devarn. "You Fortian?" he asks. "I'm Milo. Hi." Then he turns to listen carefully to Kessa and R'tan. As sson as the explanation is done, he goes for the red pile. "We are so going to kick their butts," Milo says to the others gathered there. "They're /Istans/. All we really have to do is outlast them!" And he laughs a little at this. And then shivers.
V'ine walks up to the Ista pile of gear. "Might as well join them. At least it's not cold down there. I dunno how the fort people can stand it." He grins as he draws his jacket closer. "This should be fun. New type of environment to practice search and rescue."
Shorynia sidles up to Xhaine and Khaine, having arrived late, "Umm… hey, boys, what'd I miss? Do either of you have a heavier jacket?" She shivers, obviously not properly prepared for the extreme cold.
Pralius is running, breathing heavily as he approaches the gathering. Nearly running into Milo, he pants heavily, "I'm not too late, am I? Hark insisted on being fed. What's going on? I heard something about a scavenger hunt?"
Ask and you shall receive, Xhaine. Khaine, identical to his brother in nearly every physical way, latches onto his brother's shoulders to turn him towards the proper pile. Poor color-blind Xhaine. "There you go," he says with a pat, cheery despite the cold. He's dressed heavily at least. Shorynia's appearance has him turning to wave at her just a bit. "Hey there. Would lend you mine, but it's all I have on me at the moment. You may want to see if one of the riders will let you borrow theirs for the duration. You may not get to go without one, as cold as it is."
Elyciana pulls her coat even closer to her body, shivering a little as another gust of wind threatens to find any bits of exposed skin that might've been left bare. And those puffy snowflakes aren't helping matters much, either, as she waves a hand irritably in front of her face to clear her vision from them. Somehow through allthe milling crowd and noise she does manage to discern atleast two people she knows - Milo and Ashri. At the words of the former, she lets out her breath in a slow huff and shivers again, "Knowing my luck,, Rom'd be too scared to do anything. I think I'll stick close to you. Then we can atleast freeze together." She lets out her breath ina puff, sending up another cloud of mist, before tromping through the ice and snow over towards the red pile. "C'mon, Ashri. Milo's right. We need to show them who can work in the snow?" She pulls her scarf away from her mouth a bit to make her voice a bit less muffled and perhaps so she can smirk properly. Can't be without a smirk. Now that she's stationed properly at the Fort pile, she glances back towards the front to wait for more instructions.
Jayashri grins at Milodann, not that you can really see it behind her scarf. "Yeah, we're going to win it for Fort today!" And with this she steps over to the pile of red equipment, trying to figure out what to take and how it all works. Some of it seems way too big for her tiny frame. "Urk, I think you may have to carry a lot of this, Milo." She looks to Elyciana. "Too bad we don't have some of your goats, Ely." A strange way to greet the Beastcrafter, but it works. "Oy! Over here Pralius!" she calls. Ravi appears overhead, chittering loudly before descending to nest in Ashri's hair for warmth. He'll protect her from harm!
R'tan watches as people split up. "Whose the captain for Team one?" R'tan holds something. Meanwhile Kessa looks towards Team two with a grin on her face, "Captain for Team two?"
Xhaine raises an eyebrow at both his brother and Shorynia. "Um, the supplies seem to have those as well." he points out to both of them, moving towards the correct pile and grabbing one to offer to her. He's also dressed heavily, knowing full well how cold Fort can get in the winter. Fortunately, it's nowhere near as cold as High Reaches.
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Hello, and welcome to the game of search and rescue. Somewhere within the forests around Fort, your victim waits for rescue (it'll be a stuffed dummy). Your job is to find it and bring it back to the starting line, before the other team. There are a series of clues, that will help lead you to where the victim is. The first clue comes with this letter. Good luck, and most of all, becareful.
"You'll find your victims trail in a place where we go to learn and play - it can be over night or only for the day."
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Shorynia grins taking the heavy coat and digging some thick, warm trous out of the pile as well and pulling them on under her skirt, "Thanks boys, what's the clue say?"
"You'll find your victims trail in a place where we go to learn and play - it can be over night or only for the day."'.
Devarn follows V'ine to his team's equipment pile and grabs gloves, a warmer coat, and boots, thankful for the better gear. "By the First Egg, that's better… Who's up for kicking some ice-cold Fortian butt?" He grins.
Pralius grins, drawing closer to the Fortians and reading the note over the leader's shoulder, "Well, that's interesting. Where should we start?"
R'tan and Kessa pass out the first clues, "Alright teams! Good luck! Take what equipment you think you'll need for this!" (Think amazing race!!!). Kessa claps her hands, "Go Fort! You can do this. You know this place!" She chuckles as she R'tan gets his brown to roar, announcing the race is on.
"Hey, Pral!" Milo says. "No, you're just in time. We're hunting dummies." He grins and elaborates. "It's a mock search-and-rescue mission. Grab some red gear, you're on Fort's Team. Obviously." Milo's grabbing his own stuff and loading up. He chuckles at Elyciana. "Hah. Wouldn't that be just like those stupid sappy romance novels you hate so much? How about we both live to smooch another day?" he teases her. "I think I know where the clue is," Milo thinks, and then whispers to his team mates.
V'ine smiles as he takes the first clue. "Oh ok then. Let go warm team." The brown rider can't seem to stop mentioning the cold. "Well if someone knows the area better then me you may lead after reading the clue."
"I'll be captain for Fort! I'm the shortest, so it's best I stay up front." Ashri chuckles, reaching out for the first clue from Kessa. Taking the piece of paper, she unfolds it and comes back to huddle with her team mates, reading it aloud. She goes over the last words twice, thinking. "You'll find your victims trail in a place where we go to learn and play - it can be over night or only for the day." She looks up. "Any ideas?" she asks. Brainstorming time, people!
Xhaine grabs his part of the equipment, snooping a glance at the clue over V'ine's shoulder. "Ooooh, I know where that is! Follow me!" and Xhaine'll make a beeline for the bowl exit. He'll wait if no one else is following him, but it's a RACE, yo!
"And we're totally Team Sexy." Xhaine adds over his shoulder.
Pralius nods, "There's an unfinished picnic area down the runner trail… maybe there?"
Shorynia falls in line behind the boys, still not completely sure what's going on.
Khaine takes up some of the equipment as well before jogging after his brother. "At least one of us is going to be useful here," he says with a snort that turns to mist in the air. He's just here to make Team Sexy… well, it's namesake.
Elyciana sidles a few steps away from Kess at the mention of 'captains', "Shards no, not me. I don't want to be responsible if we /do/ get lost and freeze. And that's more likely if I lead." As she bends over the pile and picks out some of the less bulky supplies, she casts a sidelong glance at Ashri, looking relieved, "Much beter for you to lead." She gives a small snort and smirks a little at Milo, "Oh yes. Lovely romance novels. I'm sure my namesake is in there swooning over her misfortune …" Swaying slihtly under the weight of a cold weather survival pack, she leans in to frown a little over the clue, "Well .. the picnic area sounds as good a place to start as any."
Devarn follows everyone else on Ista, not having seen the clue but unfamiliar with the area, anyway.
Fort Weyr - Tunnel
This tunnel has a gentle upward slope that leads the way in or out of the weyr. The smooth walls are softly illuminated by the lights strung overhead, and the stone has been etched with images of tithe trains, dragons, riders, and weyrfolk who almost seem to be moving along with you through the tunnel. The tunnel beings to widen up ahead, echoing voices and pleasant laughter.
Pralius moves quickly through the tunnel and out of the bowl, "I know I'm not the captain, but it's this way."
V'ine waves to his team. "Come on the faster we do this the faster we can get warm."
Milo follows Pralius. "All right. I think you're right."
Xhaine leads the way towards the tunnel that leads out of Fort Weyr, checking behind him to make sure he's being followed by the rest of Team Sexy. "Shame on you, Khaine! You never explored the area! I told you it would've come in handy!"
Elyciana crunches over the snow and ice, slipping every so often on wetter spots as she follows in line with everyone. "Atleast if we keep hiking everywhere, we'll keep warm enough," she quips absently, trying her best to keep up with everyone.
Shorynia has grabbed one of the bags of supplies, moving behind the boys, "This is my first time here, boys, so bear with me… which way's this… place?"
Out through the tunnel they go! Ashri leads her team forth bravely! Haha! Or at least, through cold and snow. "It said it was in the forest. So, out we go."
Fort Weyr - Near the Entrance Tunnel(#10741RAJ$)
The massive rock face that makes up the outer walls of Fort Weyr dominate your view amongst the small cotholds that dot the landscape. The path is well-worn and well tended, bushes and tall pine trees running right up against the road, keeping it well shaded in summer, and protected in winter.
Next to the tunnel entrance is a small Tavern, sounds of merriment facilitated by alcohol pouring out the doorway each time some one opens it.
Milo looks up at the rock face. "Uh… that way?" he asks, pointing in the general direction.
Pralius grumbles quietly to himself, examining the region, "It looks different from runnerback… into the forests, I think."
Elyciana lets out her breath in a slight huff, the air fanning out in front of her in a steady stream of mist, "I think this hiking is goign to get old fast, though." She pauses momentarily to shift the pack on her back, causing her to slide a ways backwards before gaining her footing again.
Quick-trotting outside the Weyr, Ashri gets smacked in the face with a blast of cold. "Shells! That's freezing!" She follows Milo's gesture. "Yeah, that way looks good. Wish we were on Runnerback," she agrees with Pralius, tromping forward again.
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Trailhead (#554RJM)
The forests around Fort Weyr are tall and lush, filled with evergreen pines which tower above the floor and into the sky. This large clearing is one end of a pleasure riding trail which stretches from Fort Weyr to Fort Seahold. Although the majority of the trail is still under construction, this bit of the road has been completed. Tucked up close against the tree line, a small booth where runners, carriages or sleighs, among other things, can be rented is till unfinished. Several paths go off in different directions here, perfect for meandering. To the west the Amethysts in the Pines children's camp can be found, to the northeast is the weyr's beasthold, stables and indoor runnerbeast complex. The weyr proper is to the east and to the south, the riding trail continues. There is also a Signpost that you can view.
"No, I hate runners," Milo says. "One of them nearly bit off three of my fingers, once. OKay. Picnic. Where is it?"
Pralius points, suddenly seeing the camp ahead, "That way! I see the benches!"
Elyciana trudges on forward, lifting an arm in front of her face to guard against those raking pine needles. "Not that anyone would want to go to a picnic out here tihs time of year, though, eh?" she offers, eyeing the snowy landscape skeptically with a slight frown as they near their destination.
Jayashri shudders agreement with Elyciana as she tromps through the snow. "I'm glad it wasn't this cold the day you took Wyndrei, Pralius," she comments, continuing to move ahead. "C'mon, let's beat Ista today!"
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Amethysts in the Pines Camp (#1389RJM)
The camp is nearly finished! New buildings and new trails have been laid down, and everything is fresh and new. The main building is a large structure with a peaked roof, crafted from pine logs. Above the door is a large sign that declares this "Amethysts in the Pines Camp". The trails have been lined with gravel making walking along them after a rain less likely to result in muddy rooms and buildings. Trees have been cleared from an area around the camp lessening the likelihood of a tree being blown down on top of one of the buildings. The main areas of the camp have wood chips covering the ground though some areas have been left in their natural state.
One trail leads to the main cabin, and another path leads down to the lake and the stage.
"Yeah. Way too cold for a picnic, today," Milo agrees with Ely. "Besides, the benches would be all wet. Who wants that?" Not him, apparently.
Pralius chuckles, "much too cold, do you think it's out here or in the community center of kid's cabin?"
"Yeah, wet benches are no fun." She stops, looking about. "I'm not sure. I haven't been here before. I just know we're looking for a dummy."
Elyciana swats at a low hanging pine branch as she emerges into the picnic area, pausing to eye the entire spot carefully. "Now .. what are we looking for? A trail?" she wonders, frowning at the ground beneath her feet. Footprints? "Yeah. Wet picnic tables equals wet behinds. Not fn at all."
There's a layer of snow on the ground. Looks like footprints are leading to the red table.
"Over there!" Milo says, and points to the footprints leading to the red picnic table.
Jayashri looks. "Hey, a footprint." Thank you, captain obvious. "The red table?" She wanders over.
Pralius moves after Milo, getting down on his knees and grasping until he finds a scrap of paper which falls to the ground.
There is nothing on top of the red pinic table. Try checking underneath it.
Underneath the table there's a piece of rolled up paper taped to the underside of it.
A small piece of paper that is curled and looks like it'll remained curled. Inside the small scroll of paper are words. It's a clue! The ink looks blotchy as if the weather got to it. Still, it's eligable. It reads: "You'll have to travel deep, until you find a circular space that has one singluar pole in it's heart." Instincts say you should keep this piece of paper in your posession.
Elyciana follows the footprints over to the red picnic table and blinks once as the paper falls from Pralius' hhands, "Oh! Well .. that was surprisingly easy." She smirks a little and leans against the table, "What does it say?"
Jayashri finds a piece of paper, holding it up triumphantly! "Look!" She passes it to Milodann. "It's a clue!"
Pralius skims the paper, "A single pole in its heart? Where is that?"
Jayashri looks puzzled. "I have no idea." She frowns. "Ely? Milo?"
"Travel deep?" Milo says, looking puzzled. "Pole?" He thinks about it. "Um…" he says, wracking his brains.
Elyciana pushes away from the table and leans in close to Milo to read over his shoulder, frowning a little as the clue is made clear. "I haven't a clue, myself. I don't take to wandering the woods alone .. so .." she trails off, lookig to Milo with a quirked brow. "Any ideas?"
Pralius murmurs quietly, "There are deeper woods that way…"
Elyciana drums her fingers against the strap of her survival pack and frowns in thought, "What would have a pole in the center? Is there a spot with a .. uh … flag pole?" She looks blankly at the others.
"Let's go back to the trail and look around. But I think Pralius might be on to something. Let's go deeper to the woods.
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Trailhead (#554RJM)
The forests around Fort Weyr are tall and lush, filled with evergreen pines which tower above the floor and into the sky. This large clearing is one end of a pleasure riding trail which stretches from Fort Weyr to Fort Seahold. Although the majority of the trail is still under construction, this bit of the road has been completed. Tucked up close against the tree line, a small booth where runners, carriages or sleighs, among other things, can be rented is till unfinished. Several paths go off in different directions here, perfect for meandering. To the west the Amethysts in the Pines children's camp can be found, to the northeast is the weyr's beasthold, stables and indoor runnerbeast complex. The weyr proper is to the east and to the south, the riding trail continues. There is also a Signpost that you can view.
Pralius stops at the trailhead, peerign back and forth before murmuring, "Down the runner trail?"
Milodann looks around. "Yeah, that sounds good to me."
Elyciana sways slightly under the weight of her pack as she trudges forward, muttering to herself, "A pole .. of all things to find. A pole." She manages to keep up with the rest of the group, though obviously she hasn't much of a clue where to go next. She pauses and eyes the trails, "Your guess is as good as mine."
Jayashri nods, trailing slight behind the group. "Sounds as good as any place." She adjusts her pack. "Let's keep moving."
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Hold - Riding Trail South
This newly finished trail leads to Fort Hold, Harper and Healer Halls as well as Fort's Seahold. The forest has been cut back from the trail to remove hiding spots for anyone that might take a fancy to the thought that easy pickings might be found along this trail. The surface of the trail has been packed down and consists mainly of crushed gravel and sand to provide a solid foundation and good drainage during rain storms and spring melt waters. A sign post indicates the distances to each area that the path leads to as well as a plaque indicating that the path had been completed under Senior Weyrwoman Elara's supervision and guidance.
Signs of new grown can be seen at the end of the newly cleared area on each side of the path as well as a rest area for those who wish to pause on their journey to enjoy a break for themselves and their animals.
Pralius stops to breath, having now walked what he has previously ridden, "there's a trace here, leads deeper into teh woods… we're close to," he blushes some, "Where I brought Wyn."
"Pral, man, if you think you know where to go, lead on!" Milo is totally willing to follow the Healer's lead.
Jayashri puffs under her unfamiliar load. "I'm afraid I'm out of my league here. You guys would know more than I at this point."
Elyciana huffs a little as she pushes into the trail, her breath rising in a mist. She pauses once to gain her bearings, "Wherever you think it'll be. I'll follow."
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Deep Woods
Deep in the Fortian woods the air takes on a pure, unspoiled scent. Majestic, evergreen pines tower above you, nearly cutting off the view of the skies, and from the high canopy, a constant gentle rain of petals, leaves and pine needles falls no matter the time of day or season. The silence is broken only by an occasional rustling of foliage, an indefinable call or the distant flutter of wings. The ruins of an ancient building remain in the twisted growth of the forest that has long since taken it over, so passers by could only catch rare glimpses of rock sticking out of the growth that has consumed it. It's so easy to get lost here. To lose track of time, lose yourself or even lose your way.
Milo looks around him at the deep woods. "Wow. It's really cold out here," he mutters. "Let's go that way," he says, and wades toward the underbrush.
Jayashri shivers. "Quite." She follows Milodann into the foliage.
Elyciana waves a hand at a passing bit of overgrowth, grumbling a litle as a branch nearly smacks her in the head. "Well. This surely is deeper anyhow," she ventures as she follows along behind.
Pralius stops, spinning in place, examining the woods around them, "there're moer glades through the underbrush…"
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Underbrush
A copse of evergreen pines and lush vegetation borders this large, circular clearing entirely. Poking out of the forest towards the northeast, an immense, petrified log rests on the ground creating a long, natural bench. Ideal as additional seats or even as low tables, several flat rocks and stumps by the log surround a makeshift fire pit which is not currently lit. A single pine grows at the very heart of this clearing. The perfectly round trench that encircles it is clear evidence that someone is making sure it thrives here.
A large dried out stump with several roots sticking out of it still. There's a hole in one side of it. It deserves an extra look.
The hole doesn't go that far into the stump but it looks like the wood is rotten. There is something white inside. It's a torn piece of fabric.
Once you pick up the torn piece of fabric, you can see ink blotched on it. It looks like it ran a bit, but you can still read the words. It says: "In a silent place thought to whisper with ghosts of long ago, in rubble and ruin, does your victim find it's foe." Instincts say you should keep this in your possession.
Pralius peers closely, "There's a hold in the stump!"
"Look around, guys," Milo says, peering this way and that for the next clue. "This has got to be the place!"
Elyciana wanders over to the stump and frowns down at the hole in there, as well as the bit of fabric inside. "Another clue, then?"
Jayashri tromps in, looking about. "Let's see what's in it…" She reaches in — how brave! — and pulls out a scrap of cloth, looking it over. "Looks like another clue." She waves the yellow cloth. "Here, read it, quick!"
Pralius peers at the cloth, "ghosts of long ago?"
Jayashri thinks. "Maybe the cave?" she suggests. "Or could it be inside the ancient tunnels?"
Elyciana shuffles her feet against the snow and frowns down at the clue, "Ghosts? Ruins? Is there some sort of grave out here?" She eyes the woods over her shoulder with a bit of a contemplative stare.
Pralius peers around, "Well, that hill is too pretty, I having been into that glade, though…"
Milo has no clue, and his face makes that plain.
Jayashri thinks. "I think I remember a cabin around here. Let's try that."
Pralius nods, "lead the way, ashri."
"Lead on," Mil says.
Elyciana lets out her breath and offers a nod to Ashri, "Lead on, then, oh captain."
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Deep Woods
Deep in the Fortian woods the air takes on a pure, unspoiled scent. Majestic, evergreen pines tower above you, nearly cutting off the view of the skies, and from the high canopy, a constant gentle rain of petals, leaves and pine needles falls no matter the time of day or season. The silence is broken only by an occasional rustling of foliage, an indefinable call or the distant flutter of wings. The ruins of an ancient building remain in the twisted growth of the forest that has long since taken it over, so passers by could only catch rare glimpses of rock sticking out of the growth that has consumed it. It's so easy to get lost here. To lose track of time, lose yourself or even lose your way.
Pralius sighs softly, "Back here. Now where?"
Jayashri trudges back through the underbrush and into the deep woods. Huff. Puff. "Uh, back to the trail."
Elyciana pushes through the foliage, elbowing out any stray bits of evergreen that get in her way. This causes a bit more snow falling on her than she'd like, but she keeps going, following along, " This is goig to get old, fast."
"Which way?" Milo asks, trailing along. "That way?"
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Hold - Riding Trail South
This newly finished trail leads to Fort Hold, Harper and Healer Halls as well as Fort's Seahold. The forest has been cut back from the trail to remove hiding spots for anyone that might take a fancy to the thought that easy pickings might be found along this trail. The surface of the trail has been packed down and consists mainly of crushed gravel and sand to provide a solid foundation and good drainage during rain storms and spring melt waters. A sign post indicates the distances to each area that the path leads to as well as a plaque indicating that the path had been completed under Senior Weyrwoman Elara's supervision and guidance.
Signs of new grown can be seen at the end of the newly cleared area on each side of the path as well as a rest area for those who wish to pause on their journey to enjoy a break for themselves and their animals.
Pralius sighs softly and follows, "So, where's this cabin, Ashri?"
"Ugh, my legs are going to be killing me tomorrow," Milo gripes. "I haven't climbed around this much in ages."
Jayashri trudges back onto the path. "Up the trail." She tosses Milo a sympathetic look.
Elyciana stumbles a little as she emerges from the woods, letting out her breath slowly once more. "Phew," she exhales and picks up her pace to follow along more, "Hopefully the clue is back here."
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Trailhead (#554RJM)
The forests around Fort Weyr are tall and lush, filled with evergreen pines which tower above the floor and into the sky. This large clearing is one end of a pleasure riding trail which stretches from Fort Weyr to Fort Seahold. Although the majority of the trail is still under construction, this bit of the road has been completed. Tucked up close against the tree line, a small booth where runners, carriages or sleighs, among other things, can be rented is till unfinished. Several paths go off in different directions here, perfect for meandering. To the west the Amethysts in the Pines children's camp can be found, to the northeast is the weyr's beasthold, stables and indoor runnerbeast complex. The weyr proper is to the east and to the south, the riding trail continues. There is also a Signpost that you can view.
Pralius glances around, "We're nearly back to the weyr, now… I'm so confused."
Milo stands there shivering. "All right. Um. Cabin, huh?" he peers around. "Where is it?"
Jayashri frowns. "The cabin is this way, but… I think we should check that grove. Something just tells me we ought to."
Elyciana pauses, looking just as dumbfounded, "Where? I'll go wherever you want."
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Hold - Riding Trail South
This newly finished trail leads to Fort Hold, Harper and Healer Halls as well as Fort's Seahold. The forest has been cut back from the trail to remove hiding spots for anyone that might take a fancy to the thought that easy pickings might be found along this trail. The surface of the trail has been packed down and consists mainly of crushed gravel and sand to provide a solid foundation and good drainage during rain storms and spring melt waters. A sign post indicates the distances to each area that the path leads to as well as a plaque indicating that the path had been completed under Senior Weyrwoman Elara's supervision and guidance.
Signs of new grown can be seen at the end of the newly cleared area on each side of the path as well as a rest area for those who wish to pause on their journey to enjoy a break for themselves and their animals.
Jayashri leads them back down the riding trail. "Into the woods, quick!"
Milo follows Jayashri.
Elyciana jogs on ahead, her breath coming faster now as she tries to keep up witht hat heavy pack, "I'm going as fast as I can!" Gripe gripe gripe.
Pralius disappears into the woods!
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Deep Woods
Deep in the Fortian woods the air takes on a pure, unspoiled scent. Majestic, evergreen pines tower above you, nearly cutting off the view of the skies, and from the high canopy, a constant gentle rain of petals, leaves and pine needles falls no matter the time of day or season. The silence is broken only by an occasional rustling of foliage, an indefinable call or the distant flutter of wings. The ruins of an ancient building remain in the twisted growth of the forest that has long since taken it over, so passers by could only catch rare glimpses of rock sticking out of the growth that has consumed it. It's so easy to get lost here. To lose track of time, lose yourself or even lose your way.
Pralius scrambles back throguh teh underbrush, nto waiting for the others
Milo follows Pralius.
Jayashri trots toward the underbrush.
Elyciana crunches fast over the snow, trying to keep up the pace.
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Underbrush
A copse of evergreen pines and lush vegetation borders this large, circular clearing entirely. Poking out of the forest towards the northeast, an immense, petrified log rests on the ground creating a long, natural bench. Ideal as additional seats or even as low tables, several flat rocks and stumps by the log surround a makeshift fire pit which is not currently lit. A single pine grows at the very heart of this clearing. The perfectly round trench that encircles it is clear evidence that someone is making sure it thrives here.
Pralius is still crawling ahead, glade ho!
Milo huffs and puffs, and follows Pralius.
Jayashri follows Pralius.
Elyciana stomps after the rest of them, puffing breathlessly.
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Shady Glade
Covered by a canopy of interlaced branches, this secluded spot in the forest is shadowy and cool. Patches of sky show intermittently through the greenery above, creating dapples of diffused light that dance on the carpet of dry needles and leaves below. A scattering of tiny wildflowers adds a touch of bright color here and there.
Jayashri looks about. "Shells, nothing here."
Pralius stops, turning again, "Shards."
"Argh, this better be it!" Milo says.
Elyciana pauses a moment to take a deep breath and let it out, her eyes roaming around the glade, "Shards. Where is this place in the lcue? Our dummy is going to be frost bit by teh time we find it."
Jayashri sighs, catching her breath as well. "Back the way we came," she puffs.
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Underbrush
A copse of evergreen pines and lush vegetation borders this large, circular clearing entirely. Poking out of the forest towards the northeast, an immense, petrified log rests on the ground creating a long, natural bench. Ideal as additional seats or even as low tables, several flat rocks and stumps by the log surround a makeshift fire pit which is not currently lit. A single pine grows at the very heart of this clearing. The perfectly round trench that encircles it is clear evidence that someone is making sure it thrives here.
Jayashri looks to the hill. "Up there, perhaps?"
Milodann arrives, scowling, and retraces his steps.
Elyciana readjusts her pack as she trudges on back down into the picnic area, letting out her breath ina puff. "Where now?"
Pralius takes a deep breath, teh woods are deeper over there.
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Firebloom Hill
Completely surrounded by tall pines, the somewhat steep curve of this hill is peppered with small wildflowers of the same variety. Some are predominately red, some orange and some have specks of yellow. Most notable, however, is a dense patch which looks to have been planted by someone. The flowers in this patch are deep red in the center, bursting through a range of orange and finally a brilliant yellow at the edges of each petal. As the wind passes over them, the colors create the illusion of tiny, flickering flames. A soft, pleasant fragrance fills the air here.
Milo looks around the hill. "Nothing. Let's go back. Let's try that blasted cabin."
Jayashri climbs up the hill, looking around. "Tunnelsnakes!"
Elyciana exhales in a frustrated sigh and grumbles, "Back to the cabin, I guess." She shifts her pack and tromps back down the hill.
Pralius peers around, "No ghosts here…"
Jayashri sighs as well, trudging back down.
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Underbrush
A copse of evergreen pines and lush vegetation borders this large, circular clearing entirely. Poking out of the forest towards the northeast, an immense, petrified log rests on the ground creating a long, natural bench. Ideal as additional seats or even as low tables, several flat rocks and stumps by the log surround a makeshift fire pit which is not currently lit. A single pine grows at the very heart of this clearing. The perfectly round trench that encircles it is clear evidence that someone is making sure it thrives here.
Pralius sighs, "Come on, guys, back to the woods, right?"
Milo trudges back through his own footprints.
Jayashri nods, puffing as the heads into the woods.
Elyciana hurries on through, following the rest.
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Deep Woods
Deep in the Fortian woods the air takes on a pure, unspoiled scent. Majestic, evergreen pines tower above you, nearly cutting off the view of the skies, and from the high canopy, a constant gentle rain of petals, leaves and pine needles falls no matter the time of day or season. The silence is broken only by an occasional rustling of foliage, an indefinable call or the distant flutter of wings. The ruins of an ancient building remain in the twisted growth of the forest that has long since taken it over, so passers by could only catch rare glimpses of rock sticking out of the growth that has consumed it. It's so easy to get lost here. To lose track of time, lose yourself or even lose your way.
A rag doll dummy. It weighs about 150lbs. It's the size of a real person. It's team two's victim!
Jayashri discovers the dummy in the underbrush. "Here!" She tries to pick it up. "Oof, it's heavy!"
Milo gets mad. "Shard it all! We passed it like six times!"
Elyciana slides a bit on some snow as she heads from the uner brush, grimacing a little, "Shards. Finally." She takes hold of a part of the dummy to help carry the blasted thing.
Pralius practicaly yells, "C'mon guys, let's hurry!"
Milo goes to help carry it. "Come on, let's go!"
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Hold - Riding Trail South
This newly finished trail leads to Fort Hold, Harper and Healer Halls as well as Fort's Seahold. The forest has been cut back from the trail to remove hiding spots for anyone that might take a fancy to the thought that easy pickings might be found along this trail. The surface of the trail has been packed down and consists mainly of crushed gravel and sand to provide a solid foundation and good drainage during rain storms and spring melt waters. A sign post indicates the distances to each area that the path leads to as well as a plaque indicating that the path had been completed under Senior Weyrwoman Elara's supervision and guidance.
Signs of new grown can be seen at the end of the newly cleared area on each side of the path as well as a rest area for those who wish to pause on their journey to enjoy a break for themselves and their animals.
Pralius is starting to gasp from the exertion of running back and forth, "Back up the trail!"
Elyciana grimaces under the strain of the dummy as she tries to move fast while still bearing the weiht. Huff. Hard work.
"Sharding dummy! Shells! Hiding in the bushes!" Milodann growls.
Jayashri helps carry the dummy. "There has to be an easier way," she grumbles as she makes it through the woods.
Fort's Forests ~~ Fort Weyr - Trailhead (#554RJM)
The forests around Fort Weyr are tall and lush, filled with evergreen pines which tower above the floor and into the sky. This large clearing is one end of a pleasure riding trail which stretches from Fort Weyr to Fort Seahold. Although the majority of the trail is still under construction, this bit of the road has been completed. Tucked up close against the tree line, a small booth where runners, carriages or sleighs, among other things, can be rented is till unfinished. Several paths go off in different directions here, perfect for meandering. To the west the Amethysts in the Pines children's camp can be found, to the northeast is the weyr's beasthold, stables and indoor runnerbeast complex. The weyr proper is to the east and to the south, the riding trail continues. There is also a Signpost that you can view.
Pralius keeps running, dragging his end of the dummy behind him.
Milo follows, grumbling the entire time.
Elyciana hunches her shoulders, sagging a little under the weight as she runs over uneven ground. Nearly there.
Wheeze! "I thought I was in better shape!" Ashri is small, to be fair.
Fort Weyr - Near the Entrance Tunnel(#10741RAJ$)
The massive rock face that makes up the outer walls of Fort Weyr dominate your view amongst the small cotholds that dot the landscape. The path is well-worn and well tended, bushes and tall pine trees running right up against the road, keeping it well shaded in summer, and protected in winter.
Next to the tunnel entrance is a small Tavern, sounds of merriment facilitated by alcohol pouring out the doorway each time some one opens it.
"Almost there!" Ashri groans.
"If we lose, I'm going to die of shame," Milo says irritably.
Pralius gasps out, "Just a little bit further guys."
Elyciana slides on a bit of snow near the entrance, her breath coming hard now. "Shards this thing needs to lose weight."
Fort Weyr - Tunnel
This tunnel has a gentle upward slope that leads the way in or out of the weyr. The smooth walls are softly illuminated by the lights strung overhead, and the stone has been etched with images of tithe trains, dragons, riders, and weyrfolk who almost seem to be moving along with you through the tunnel. The tunnel beings to widen up ahead, echoing voices and pleasant laughter.
"I think our dummy weighs more than I do," Milo complains, helping to carry it.
Pralius keeps moving, wheezing heavily.
There's a light at the end of the tunnel! "Certainly more than I do!" Ashri agrees.
Elyciana lets out her breath once more in a gasp, trying her best to keep a good grip on teh thing as she moves into the Weyr.
Fort Weyr - Ground Entrance - SW Bowl
The dominant feature of the southern end of the bowl is the blue lake that fills the entire southern tip and the rockslide that tumbles down into its far side. It has been many, many, turns since the slide took place, but it still stands uncleared to this day. Occasionally, smaller pebbles tumble down to splash into the waters of the lake below, but the mass seems mostly stable. Sturdy fences mark the feeding pens that the dragons may choose their meals from, located against the west face. The beasthold here is minor, small cramped buildings, used mostly to maintain the herds which feed the dragons. The major beasthold is located out in the forests, just outside the Weyr. There's a sign which warns "that beasts in this location are fair game to the dragons" and that any domestic pleasure stock should be kept in the major beasthold location.
The other feature that does not go unnoticed in this bowl is the large cavernous archway. There seems to be cobble stone laid down near the archway, which causes a clatter when the wagons and trading caravans arrive. Indeed, it seems that there's a tunnel out of the bowl here, wide enough for two trader caverns to fit through and possibly a small blue dragon. To the opposite end, the great bowl stretches away far, leading to some very interesting locations.
Kessa stands up as she sees a group of people rushing back into the bowl. She dusts off the snow from her jacket and peers at those coming in. Ista's team. Her lips purse with a bit of disappointment. She knew where those dummies were placed and considers their team for a long while. "Have a nice hike?" she tilts her head at them, moving toward them, "Got all the clues I hope?" Her hand moves in a wanting motion, as if to make them show proof.
Devarn shudders for no particular reason. "Yeah, I haven't done that much hiking in… well… ever! And in the sharding cold, too!"
Pralius is gasping loudly as he drops his side of teh dummy and collapses, "We lost!"
Milo, with the rest of his team, runs into the bowl, wheezing. "Argh!" he yells, seeing Ista there ahead of him.
Jayashri doubles over, wheezing as they finally bring the dummy in, clutching her knees as they deposit it. "B-back!" she gasps.
Xhaine dances over to V'ine and nudges him. "Give her the clues! Hurry! Fort just came up!" he yells. Dude, the rider is like…. inches away, he can hear you.
Shorynia would smile smugly, but she's just a little hypothermic at the moment.
V'ine hands the clues to the weyrwoman. "here you are ma'am."
Jessamin looks on as the teams return, grinning and calling out, "Go, Ista! Remember the Infernos!"
Elyciana skids to a stop, sliding over ice and snow and nearly falling over as she drops the bit of the dummy she was holding onto the bowl floor. Gasping at the icy air, she clutches at her sides, grimacing, "Sharding … dummy .." Gasp. Stitch in side. Never a pleasant thing. She doesn't even have the air in her lung to properly swear at the Istan team.
Kessa looks over her shoulder as she sees the other team shortly racing in after Ista's. But she gives Ista's team a skeptical look, "Well, congratulations." Kessa walks around the dummy, looking at Elyciana as they too just drop the dummy. She starts laughing, "I'd hope both of your teams would have more respect for real people! I'd hate to be rescued by you lot." She waves them toward the living caverns, "Go now. Warm up in the living caverns! Team Ista has taken the game."
Shorynia flips slowly and half crawl half walks to the lower caverns, she's dangerously cold.
"Ista won because we wanted to get out of the cold as soon as possible!" Xhaine declares, then does a cartwheel when Ista is declared the winner. Make that /THREE/ bowls of sugar for breakfast. Then, of course, he goes to the Living Caverns.
V'ine grins "Yeah team sexy did it." He goes to give his team high fives. "good job team. Now let go get warm."
Pralius sighs, "C'mon guys, let's go warm up."
Milo looks at Ely. His hand twitches, like he wants to hold her hand, but then he shoves them in his pockets. "Hot cider," he says. "How's that sound?" He grins and tilts his head in an invitation.
Devarn gratefully follows everyone else into the Caverns.
"Although I'd sort of hope someone wouldn't leave us letters to find them in the coldest reaches of the mountains to rescue them," Khaine replies with amusement, mostly to himself. He hi-fives V'ine and the others before heading into the caverns.
Jayashri manages to straighten, finally getting enough of her wind back to not be doubled over breathlessly. "Warm— good," she notes, starting to follow Milodann, Elyciana and Pralius. "Now I want some hot klah." She moseys after her team, her breath pluming through her half fallen scarf. "And then a hot bath."
Elyciana inhales another deep breath of icy air and straightens up, her face pink from the exertions. She manages a wheezing answer to Kessa, a grimace still on her face, "Well … I'd hope we'd not be rescuing real people for a contest. Tends to make you want to rush, yeah?" Despite her exhaustion, she manages a smirk. Then, brushing some snow from her coat, she wobbles a little in the direction of the living caverns, eyeing the others, "Coming? Milo? Ashri?" She still clutches at her sides as she walks gingerly.
