[X] Once with your mind and the tales of your ancestors, you lead the Headhunters across the terrain and into Elven lands to find a mystical herb that was required for a mighty elixir. You still have some of that elixir for use one day.
[X] Once with your mind and the tales of your ancestors, you lead the Headhunters across the terrain and into Elven lands to find a mystical herb that was required for a mighty elixir. You still have some of that elixir for use one day.
[X] It was a long night when the mighty Tree groaned and the light of the sun had been blocked out, you scoured across hundreds of years of knowledge within your mind and oral recollection and retrieved from it the knowledge that once before a great branch had fallen and blotted out the sun. You lead your people to remove yet another that had fallen across the valley. Armor was crafted from the wood of the tree and gifted to you for your deed.
[X] In the Depths of night, with naught but your memory and your abilities of misdirection, you snuck into your Master's storage and snuck away with several tablets you poured over under torchlight. Though you were caught in the end, Bethekk laughed at your devious ways.
1 - Elixir of Water Breathing
2 - Elixir of Poison Resistance
3 - Elixir of Lesser Agility
4 - Elixir of Widom
5 - Elixir of Giant's Strength
6 - Elixir of Coalesced Regret
Elixir of Widom, that's a good one. One bit of critical info at just the right moment when we really need it...it's actually my second choice for best potion right behind Elixir of Coalesced Regret.
[X] Might 1, Mind 3, Moxie 2
[X] Once with your mind and the tales of your ancestors, you lead the Headhunters across the terrain and into Elven lands to find a mystical herb that was required for a mighty elixir. You still have some of that elixir for use one day.
Blessing Gain;
Panther's Path: Often it is that Panther's are solitary creatures, never interacting or working with another of their kind. If one sees Panther's in a group, it is due to being mates overseeing children. So it is with Bethekk, preferring the solitary troll over the group, for it is when alone when one truly has to rely upon their own means. Yet still, Bethekk understands the role of a lead, and has still greater respect for the Individual who steps forward to lead others to their cause.
Adds +2 Success to Intrigue Actions when leading others
Elixir Gain;
Elixir of Wisom: Grants 2 Successes to a Single Mind action or when used during a plan reveals a single piece of important insight or information during the result of that action irregardless of action success.
A Chieftain's death is seldom a good thing. If one was bad, they were often cast down and another raised. Most of the time it was old age in the peaceful Shatterspear and this time was no different. During the Storm season, when the great tree sends rivers and rivers and lakes of water down at the same time upon your village, a great festival to Shivallah takes place as the village gives thanks to the Life Mother, and many prospective mated pairs sought Shivallah's Blessings for children while others prayed for good health. All trolls of the tribe who wished to join the merriment danced with the rain and clouds.
The Chieftain Jah'donak sat upon the seat of Honor, eyes closed and head resting upon his chin as he pondered the recent incursions of the elves. It was in that position, ever thinking of the old tribe's future that he passed at eighty-three. None knew it until the celebration ended and the people started to retreat into their homes. Once it was discovered, the tribe was quick to gather around the white-haired Chieftain who even then appeared to simply be sleeping. Away he was carried to his Family's home, where the proper rituals were soon beginning, as many more gathered to discuss who would inherit the position.
Of course, you knew nothing of this until after, as you were busying yourself with what was asked of you. You were never one to attend such events even in the best of times, but you and Master En'don gathered together and regaled each other with stories of the past, specifically of the Elves. The two of you were going back and forth, sharing facts, details, memories even of your shared recollection to reinforce and agree on the story as you both remembered it. Such were the methods of the Wave-Riders.
"'Such dat it whas, dat when t'ree and t'ree met the shore, four and four set out into the green. Amidst those greens did the Trolls find Elves, and Elves found Trolls'… Elves found Trolls?" Master En'don murmured to himself, as confusion rippled across his face "No no no, Trolls find elves, Elves find… Find? Or was it a fight?" He rubbed his chin in confusion as he tried to pin down which exactly it was.
"It was dat 'Elves fought Elves'." Master En'don was getting worse as the years ticked on. His mind becomes muddled and jumbled, even with the various blessings laid upon him that saw him through the roughest years of your training… Even the Loa could not save the elderly troll from old age at this point. "They was havin' an argument amidst themselves as they saw Trolls." You explained, to which En'don nodded along, as his mind cleared enough to follow.
"Yesssssss." He hissed "'Trolls find Elves, and Elves Fight Elves, For Darkened Shores and Blackened Bones-' It be comin' back to me." The elder troll twirled their fingers on the end of one of their tusks like it was hair. They were clearly running it once more in their head before the two would commence once again, not for the first time and most assuredly not for the last time.
Each Wave-Rider had their method of recollecting the past. Some used songs. Some used Stories. Some even told it in poems. Some simply recalled it as it was told. You took after your master in that regard. Stories and Rhymes mainly, though the story of the Crumbled Chieftain was irritatingly only in song. You hated that story for a very good reason. You did not have the best singing voice, no one would fight you about it.
The meeting between Wave-Riders was interrupted by the pounding of a fist on wood, and the voice of a young boy, barely taller than your shoulder, shoving his head past the flap that separated the dry home from the torrential world. "The Chieftain is dead!" If Both of your attentions weren't on the boy already, they certainly were now. That fierce attention saw the boy flinch back for a moment, then he remembered why he was there and continued "I got told to tell ya. The tribe already be gathered an' be lookin' to find the next chief."
The older troll stood first, you hurriedly standing up after him as he was dismissing the boy with a wave of his arm "Off wit' ya. We'll be d'ere." The boy needed no further directions, sprinting off into the storm, no doubt to either join the tribe or to inform others about what had happened. Master En'don shook his head, dark thoughts making themselves manifest on his features. The two of you then stepped into the heavy rain "This ain't good. Now ain't the time for some youngin' to prove 'em'selves."
The rain pounded into you almost like a physical blow all at once. Your hair became matted, your dress almost entirely ruined if it were not so heavy that it kept your legs dry except for your feet. Master had it easy, walking bare-chested little more than wrappings around his lower body, old as he was he acted as if the storm owed him the pleasure of his company.
You both ascended the village path. There were very few torches still lit amidst the Village, even still it was very clear where everyone was. Some ran past you, some were behind you still simply enduring the rain as they made themselves towards the peak. For all that the rain thundered onto you like blows, they weren't particularly effective at deterring trolls from making the journey upwards. Children were carried and covered by cloth to soften it only slightly, but that was more than enough for them. In truth, the mud was a more effective deterrent for a troll than the ever constant life blessing rain that poured into the vale.
"Who do ya think will get voted? Surely it be Krah'ranik. He is the eldest headhunter." You voiced to En'don, mulling over who you know who might even remotely be chosen. There weren't many who could be relied upon truthfully, the chieftain had a few sons, eldest being Edusahn. Unlikely the tribe would vote for a Warrior, far as you were aware, the Elves had yet to truly spook the tribe that far. The possibility of that fact might yet allow some of the more ambitious to but themselves forward, but that was as unlikely as the great tree falling. "Perhaps Jory Zaga…" Your voice is just loud enough to be heard over the rain. "She be a Witch Doctor worthy o' the title."
Surprisingly, the jolly master of the Wave-Riders, so consisting of just the two of you, still wore the grim frown he had the moment the two of you were informed. That put you off foot, the olden troll was more than happy to share his thoughts without a care in the world usually. But then again, these are indeed unusual times. The kind old troll who described telling stories to youngin's as the happiest part of his days walked silently as he mulled over what could very well be murder for how dark and grim he seemed to have it. "Maybe." You almost didn't hear him then, but your full attention on him was hardly going to let it slip past. The troll's dark mood was even clearer in his words "Ah be thinkin' ah got a good idea who they be pickin'."
You were a bit stumped on what exactly to say about that, not least because of how ominous Master En'don said when he spoke of it. You would have been worried for the chieftain's health were he not already dead.
The mood was soured enough tha by the time you thought of a way to respond to it, you were already at the Chieftain's home.
A barrage of noises, arguments, and more than a few fights in the farthest ends of the room were breaking out as you and Master En'don pushed past the hanging flap. "We can't be 'avin' war on just d'is! We need to find out what the elves be doin' in our lands first!" A voice decried, and your eyes saw Krah'ranik himself leading that discussion before another across the room spoke up "We need war. The Elves be tramplin all over our land like d'ey own it! We shouldn't be allowin' them the pleasure!" Jor'kill, the young warrior who towered over the rest of the trolls in the tribe by a head and a hand shouted back. It was clear the tribe was being split down the two choices; Knowledge and War.
It was a catastrophe. It well and truly was, as what should have been a discussion about the Chief had very clearly dissolved into a great argument and fight over positions. You and Master En'don were given seats, closer to the door, but those were the ones you two enjoyed either way. Easier to leave after all. Wave-Riders were not often called upon and weren't usually needed for these sorts of events.
"What has happened?" You ask the sneering elder you ended up sitting beside, as En'don made it very clear he was listening in as his cocked head was tilted towards you two. He, however, was glaring daggers at whoever would meet his gaze. The last of the tribe were now entering and seating themselves where they could find the space.
"Peh, what hasn't 'appened." He muttered darkly. "The t'ree choices for da next chieftain, as Jah'donak declared d'em to be. Some raised a fuss he ain't picked one of 'is boys, but d'at was his right. No one could agree upon d'at Krah'Ranik, who made a good cause ah reckon fer speakin' wit' d'em Elves. But the other half thought the Elves already be in our lands to scout." The elder made a dissatisfied noise, like a deflating bladder. "Then when d'eys was speakin' of the other choices an' most of the tribe' even the ones wantin' to fight, didn't want Jor'kill to lead." He shook his head "A few more years an' a proper few hits over the head and I be thinkin' he won't be too bad." By the clear anticipation in his voice, he was very clearly the one who wanted to do it.
The song of wood splintering cut through the meet, as eyes turned to see Krah'ranik and Jor'kill were mere inches from each other, Krah'ranik's staff splintered into pieces. The taller Jor'kill clearing wanted nothing more to start exactly what many feared might happen.
"ENOUGH!" The entire room darkened as two voices roared. Quite literally, roared their command across the room, the wave of noise spluttering flames and causing the entire processions to pause mid-speech or action. Every head turned to see the two Priests of the Loa standing on either side of the Chieftain's stand. The tiki torches behind them cast their visages in shadow, almost as if they transformed into their respective Loa.
Una Ji'ro and Voriya both scanned the room, like predators amidst prey, they spoke now as the physical representation of their respective Loa, almost deceptively for their clothing. Ji'ro, the Priestess of Shirvallah, nodded her head in the silence before raising her voice. " 'Ave any of ya' anymore to say?!"
Silence greeted her, and she nodded again. "'Ave any of ya disagree wit' the choices o' the Chief, who has no left us?!"
Silence once again dominated the room.
Voriya, Priestess of Bethek then spoke "The Loa 'ave Spoken d'eir will and made their vote. Ya 'ave known this, yet ya still devolved into fightin' each other. Any who would challenge d'em, step forward."
No one moved from where they sat.
The two priestesses nodded together then. "D'en by the Votes of the Loa, with all other options havin' been dismissed by disagreements amidst the Tribe, the Chieftain has been decided. Jalo'Ki The Wave-Rider now Stands to lead if they will accept such responsibility."
The only noise to break the silence of the Home was the rain and the cursing of Master En'don.
Actions:
You may use any number of Dice from for actions, with a minimum number of 1 (Excluding Initiating War). As Chieftain of the tribe, you are not only responsible for these actions being done, you are also expected to at least oversee it being done. Once Proven, delegation becomes a great deal easier.
Might Actions - Either Military or Labor intensive actions - 2 Dice Remaining
[ ] The Time of Axe and Spear (Free Action) - It is time to set out… You have decided it is time to defend your homeland.
[ ] Sharpen Axes (2 Successes Needed) - The Warriors of the Shatterspear have long seen disuse even by your own impressive recollection. Though inexperience, the training regimen of hundreds of years has seen them still sharp. They need only the proper weapons.
[ ] Spears of the Unshattered Kind (2 Successes Needed) - The Headhunters of the Shatterspear are still quite useful without enemies to fight. They hunt the various beasts that exist within the mountains and Jungles of the Vale to diversify the diet of the Tribe while also keeping track of its Borders. Yet, they too are in dire need of proper weapons not whittled by their own hands.
[ ] Stock up Greens (2 Successes Needed) - The Witch Doctors usually keep a good stock of their alchemical ingredients, claiming several areas around the various dips and dives of the mountains to grow their own stocks. Yet, if war is to happen you will most definitely need a stockpile for healing and enhancing the Warriors of your Tribe.
[ ] Stocking up the Bare Necessities (2 Successes Needed) - Your people mainly survive off a great deal of gathered foods from the jungle surrounding them. Fruits, Nuts, roots, Vegetables, plus the obvious Maize and Rice grown along the mountainsides, and the almost endless amount of freshwater fish that live in the lakes. Stock up on these foods and ensure your people are prepared to weather whatever storm is approaching them.
[ ] A Village Given Time (4 Successes Needed) - Almost once a generation, except once three centuries previously due to a particularly egregious case of alcohol poisoning that saw it done twice in a year, the houses and supports of the Village are seen too and repaired as they age, deconstructing before raising them back up. If you are to head to war, you will need to pre-emptively do this as much of your Labor will be fighting.
Mind Actions - Used to find a solution to a problem - 4 Dice Remaining
[ ] A Number's Game (1 Success Needed) - You are now the leader of the entirety of the Shatterspear Tribe and with that comes the responsibility to actually understand and know the tribe you're now managing. You, a Wave-Rider of the Shatterspear, are well able to guess the most accurate number of the Tribe, but a true head count will do wonders for your planning.
[ ] Greet the Elderly (2 Success Needed) - Though a Wave-Rider, you are not given all the wisdom the tribe has gathered. Much of it has to do with the simple amount that a Troll could recall or orate. Each has their own means, some even having no need simply able to recall all they have been told. But going and meeting the elders of your people will at the very least endear you to them for listening to the Old Guard of the tribe.
[ ] The Tribe's Troubles (3 Successes Needed) - The Shatterspear Tribe always brings all they collect, whether it is wood, food, supplies, and anything else not on the minimalist levels or not directly requested from a Witch Doctor's own gardens to present to the Chieftain and so they may distribute it. A long held system, but unless you're fully aware of all the ins and outs of where resources are needed, it is a bit of a wasted effort. Find out where best to direct your Tribe's resources.
[ ] A Recollection of the Fairer [Bleh] Kind (3 Successes Needed) - You are a Wave-Rider, one of only two in the village outside of your Master. You are the sole person you could perhaps turn to when it comes to the matters of the Elves, lest you disturb your Master in his last days. Set your mind to work, reach back over Nine hundred and fifty years to recall the knowledge your people passed down of their meetings with the elves and the deal they struck.
[ ] Trespassing Elves (4 Successes Needed) - Intrigue - Everyone in the village is well aware of the Elves that are getting ever closer. Whether they hear it from the worried gossipers or directly from the Headhunters and Warriors who find ever increasing signs. But the Why of it is completely missing. You set out with some Headhunters to see if you can find out why.
[ ] The Other Side of the Mountain (4 Successes Needed) - Intrigue - With the Elves getting ever closer to the heart of Shatterspear lands, the question remains that the Tribe has no knowledge of what is happening within the Elf lands. Answers must be found, no matter the stance taken. Take some Headhunters and find exactly what is happening.
Moxie Action - Things that require diplomacy or dealing with other - 3 Dice Remaining
[ ] A Change of Ways (1 Success Needed) - With your ascension into the position of Chieftain you now stand atop a trip who is directionless. Direct them. Tell them what they must do for preparation for the future. Yet the Trolls of your tribe will eventually grow weary if you spend too long, or disaster can occur, in a differing footing from their traditional ways if spent without good cause.
- [ ] War Footing - Tell the Tribe to prepare for war. Families will begin stockpiling supplies, Artisans will begin preparing for orders of weapons, and Witch Doctors will begin preparations for more elixirs and potions. - Adds +3 Successes to Non-Military Might actions
Stockpile Footing - Tell the Tribe to stock up on all they can. The tribe collectively will begin hoarding supplies and resources either given, gathered, or made by their own hands. Often these times require rationing, so the tribe will be prepared for the worst of it. - Adds +3 Successes to Preparation actions
- [ ] Production Footing - Tell the Tribe to collect and produce raw material ready to be used for a large project of some kind. Whether it is stone, wood, or some other material needed, the tribe will rally and assist in the collection of that material to assist the village. - Adds +3 Successes to Collection Actions
- [X]Peacetime Footing - The Tribe continues as it ever has. - No Added Successes
[ ]Go and Meet the Family (1 Success Needed) - The Shatterspear is a tight knit group of trolls. Everyone knows everyone, even if it's only by reputation or through a friend of a friend. In truth, if you go back far enough, everyone is related to everyone. Yet, they don't know you as a person. Go and meet them and give them a face to their new Chieftain.
[ ]Find the Divide (2 Successes Needed) - The Elves encroach ever closer, leaving with what is your people's prey and resources. Fear is starting to grow greater amidst your people's ranks, and some call for finding answers, some call for retribution. Find where the line is amidst your people.
[ ]Envoy For Answers (3 Successes Needed) - The answer is quite clear, if the Elves are encroached upon your people's lands answers must be sought out. Approach the elves directly, hopefully with some signs of peace. Establish communication to the nearest elves within the forests west of the Vale.
[ ]Matters of the Faith (3 Successes Needed) - Your people have only two loa to which they pray. Each is honored equally and some given proper respect amidst the Tribe. Nevertheless, speaking on the matters of the Loa will give some insights into the people, why they prey on each loa in particular. Every troll has their own reasons to praying towards these great protectors of your people.
Loa Actions - Related directly to the Loa of your people. As Chieftain, they might just respond.
[ ] Pray to Bethekk - Ask the Panther Goddess for her guidance for an action(1 Turn Cooldown)
[ ]Pray to Shirvallah - Ask for the Tiger Goddess for her Guidance for an Action (1 Turn Cooldown)
Personal Action - You are not always managing your people. Sometimes you simply have matters of your own you wish to partake, or simply relax.
[ ] Sort your Memories and Oral tales. What? It can be a Job AND hobby. No Master, I am not obsessed-
[ ] Move Into the Chieftain's Home - For as long as you've known, your home was a part of one of the many hills of the Vale where you live alongside your Master. It was the best place away from the Waterfall that dominated the main Valley the Shatterspear lived in. But you are the Chieftain, and the abode at the very top next to the lip of the waterfall is by far the best view and the best to receive your people… But your scrolls and tablets…
[ ] Train
- [ ]In What Skill or Weapon?
[ ] Socialize
- [ ]With Who?
[ ] Use Potion of Wisom
- [ ] What Action?
- [ ] 2 Successes
- [ ] Important Information
[ ] Write in
AN: Sorry for the delay, got busy at work but definitely wanted to get this out before I left work. I'll fix it up and make it all nice when I get home.
Edit:
Quick Update; Spell checked, grammar checked, and slightly edited the actual story part.
Accidently had Moving homes in the Might section on accident.
[X] Plan History and Knowledge Preserve us
-[X] Spears of the Unshattered Kind (2 Successes Needed) (2 Might Dice)
-[X] A Number's Game (1 Success Needed) (2 Mind Dice)
-[X] A Recollection of the Fairer [Bleh] Kind (3 Successes Needed) (2 Mind Dice)
-[X] Go and Meet the Family (1 Success Needed) (1 Moxie Dice)
-[X] Find the Divide (2 Successes Needed) ( 2 Moxie DIce)
-[X] Sort your Memories and Oral tales. What? It can be a Job AND hobby. No Master, I am not obsessed-
Not the most exciting of plans, but it's stuff that helps us prepare and better understand our situation. Figuring out exactly what the deal says about the Elves and our relations should help figure out if there is a reason some are trespassing and finding out the standpoints of our own tribe should help us moderate between the camps.
Jalo'Ki has a hard task in front of her, and i am here for it.
If i remember right mlafurion is active in this time period its only later after he got wounded/killed by the orcs +demon that tyranid got a little how do you say aggresive ? Or do i get my lore mixed up maybe we could get a druid with malfurion still active i mean trolls get shamanism from thrall witchdoctor are somewhere between ritual and divine magic if i understand it right .
Adhoc vote count started by Maybe Mike on Jul 2, 2024 at 8:01 PM, finished with 16 posts and 9 votes.
[X] Plan History and Knowledge Preserve us
-[X] Spears of the Unshattered Kind (2 Successes Needed) (2 Might Dice)
-[X] A Number's Game (1 Success Needed) (2 Mind Dice)
-[X] A Recollection of the Fairer [Bleh] Kind (3 Successes Needed) (2 Mind Dice)
-[X] Go and Meet the Family (1 Success Needed) (1 Moxie Dice)
-[X] Find the Divide (2 Successes Needed) ( 2 Moxie DIce)
-[X] Sort your Memories and Oral tales. What? It can be a Job AND hobby. No Master, I am not obsessed-
[X] Plan History and Knowledge Preserve us
-[X] Spears of the Unshattered Kind (2 Successes Needed) (2 Might Dice)
-[X] A Number's Game (1 Success Needed) (2 Mind Dice)
-[X] A Recollection of the Fairer [Bleh] Kind (3 Successes Needed) (2 Mind Dice)
-[X] Go and Meet the Family (1 Success Needed) (1 Moxie Dice)
-[X] Find the Divide (2 Successes Needed) ( 2 Moxie DIce)
-[X] Sort your Memories and Oral tales. What? It can be a Job AND hobby. No Master, I am not obsessed-
Find the Divide - 2 Successes Need - Rolled; 6, 6 - 2 Critical Successes - 4 Successes Total
The Shatterspear tribe was not unknowing of the fact disagreements happen. Amidst the martial of your tribe, those being the headhunters and warriors, arguments were almost encouraged. Where martial prowess fell away over the years, competition, arguments, and usually a bet or wrestling match ensued. It simply was how it was, generation after generation of those defenders of the tribe keeping themselves strong through these methods. The methodology had flaws, but it was always known to be flawed. Competition and rivalries kept up a troll's motivation, leading to greater and greater growth amidst said rivals. It was true amidst those non-martially inclined as well, though perhaps not to the degree of the hot-blooded youths or aged veterans.
Of course, this has now seemingly come back and bit every troll right in the behind once an actual threat has shown itself in their lives.
When a Headhunter disagrees with a Headhunter, they go out into the woods and settle it that way. Sometimes with spears inserted into the other, but it was usually taken with good graces and a gifted spear returned inside the other. When a warrior disagrees with a Warrior, they usually go into one of the many practice areas around the Vale and beat each other black and blue with red all over. Sometimes fingers toes or limbs are bitten off and shared between each other as signs of respect.
As a Wave-Rider, you know of several notable and increasingly furious bouts of such competitions. Warrior Raamih disarms himself and beats Elder Trai'wor unconscious. The great hunting rivalry almost caused an entire species of bird to go extinct within the vale, often including them returning from hunts together with dozens of spears in their back just deep enough to stick. Even a funny story to tell children of Ogu the Feathered beating a fellow Headhunter with a grilled bird leg.
Well apparently when a Warrior and Headhunter have a big enough disagreement, they feud openly and publicly.
Krah'Ranik and Jor'kill are far from the first two such of their respective orders to feud, but they certainly are attempting to beat the greatest feud between two members of the tribe. Every meeting between turns immediately venomous, as insults fly and accusations follow after. Were it but only them it would be a simple matter of resolving, yet it went beyond that. The Headhunter and Warriors of the Tribe were starting to get involved as well. Rivalries between the two defenders of the Village were also nothing new, yet it was getting out of hand as the two leaders of each were heating their rivalry.
It took very little effort to find those who would happily tell you about the two males.
Krah'Ranik was and always had been a worrier. Worried about the weather, worried about how the animals in the jungle were doing, worried about if the water would eventually dry up or stop falling. If something wrong could happen to the Shatterspear, Krah'Ranik worried about it profusely. Many have quoted the troll himself, "Ah'd worry 'bout the sun an' moon if ah could do somethin' bout it." Yet it was speaking to the male's father and Wife that truly revealed the picture. Krah'Ranik wanted everyone and anyone within the Tribe to be hale and hearty. The idea of sickness or disease spreading filled him with dread. Always the first to volunteer to assist, and always the last to put down his tools for the day.
Jor'kill was perhaps harder to find truer information on, if only due to his younger age. Of course, he was the same age as you. Jor'kill was a troll who very happily and very loudly disavowed sitting and waiting. If there was a job that needed to be done, you went and did it, and if there was something worth getting, you went and got it. Jor'kill even from a young age hated sitting around and waiting, but even more, hated the idea of bullies. More than several elders complained and bemoaned the fact that Jor'kill sent more trolls home in bruises than any other. He was simple, he was direct, and he had no patience in sitting around. Coupled with his strong body and tall height, he was the perfect example of what a Warrior should be in the eyes of many. He earned that respect and has never betrayed it.
This then leads to where the divide across the Tribe lies.
If you were swayed by the want to defend your home from these invaders you sided with Jor'kill.
If you were uncertain or curious about why the elves were even doing this after so long you sided with Krah'Ranik.
Almost all of the tribes fall in some way across the two camps, with very few sitting out of the discussion. Or so it would have been, had the most recent fight been so explosive. What should have been a quiet night almost turned into a Brawl between Krah'ranik and Jor'kill supporters. It was a close-run thing, yet a Witch Doctor by the name of Nideso whacked several of both sides over the head with her staff before shoving them on their way. But it was clear the supporters of Jor'kill were growing evermore.
Yet, you can find a whole swathe of the tribe looking to you to decide what the path forward will be.
[Krah'Ranik Motivation Revealed; Protective]
[Krah'Ranik Mindset Revealed; Isolationist: Krah'Ranik pushes his views from a position of preserving troll life and will oppose actions that might risk them]
[Jiro'Kill Motivation Revealed; Justice]
[Jiro'kill Mindset Revealed; Equality: Jiro'kill believes that since the Elves are running rampant across Shatterspear lands the Trolls should do in kind]
[The Tribe is split 25-35-40 between Krah'Ranik, Jor'kill, and You respectively. Yet with a great enough showing of leadership, or addressing the two Trolls yourself, you could defang the entire situation]
Spears of the Unshattered Kind - 2 Successes Needed - Rolls; 1, 1 - 2 Critical Failures - 4 Failures - +1 Success from Strong - 3 Failures Total
Once the rift within the Tribe had been identified, it was time to move on to other matters that required a chieftain's attention. Both the Warriors and the Headhunters had made their requests for proper weapons once news of the elves encroached began, but Jah'donak did not end up making such a decision. So it fell to your shoulders. Almost immediately you decided to supply the Headhunters first. There were several reasons, but the first was no doubt the matter: if there was a true incursion it would be the head hunters who would find the force first. Of course, that's disregarding the idea they might attack the Village itself…
Down amidst the woodworkers, whittlers, hewers, and all the in-between that was done by the same group of trolls, you rattled off the dimensions of a several-generation-old spear that Chieftain Kahro had ordered so she might hunt down a harpie that kept stealing her husbands. It was quite memorable due to its slim size and the ease it flew through the air. Some of the woodworkers were confused, one even mentioned the frailty it seemed to have, over a few dozen were hauled out to the Headhunters to see how they found them.
It was as you were considering a barbed spear once used on goats to ensure they couldn't escape when the same troll who hauled out the spears returned. However, instead of empty-handed, they came with Krah'Ranik who looked less than pleased. In their hands were the same spears hauled off, but this time in various states of splinter. Somewhere trolls held them to throw, some near the tips just under the stone points.
Several ideas spread through your head as you regarded them, from different wood, incorrect measurements, to even the incorrect length before several others.
Suffice it to say, that the whole project was put on hold for the time being.
[Headhunters gain a bad first impression of your abilities]
A Number's Game - 1 Success Needed - Rolls; 1, 3 - 1 Critical Failure, 1 Failure - 3 Failures - +1 Success from Cunning - 2 Failures Total
There is something to be said when the thing you trusted and believed in most seemingly betrayed you. It was a wound that no amount of regeneration would fix, that was for certain. So you sat there and pondered over the matter of the spears, muttering to yourself as you went through the motions of the story once more. Several times you stopped to think deeply after one particularly nasty gnarl of conflicting memories. It didn't help that you continued to try and keep track of the various names and families an elder was giving you.
It was only as you were recollecting your thoughts for the third time that you realized the folly of attempting to continue this discussion of the tribe's numbers. It would have to wait for another day.
Meet the Family - 1 Success Needed - Rolls; 3 - 1 Failure - 1 Total Failure
When you next left the Chieftain's, well, your new home, it was to simply walk around the various sections of the vale. From the top of the Chieftain's rise, you could peer down throughout the entire village. The only things not within sight were several sections of the village that sprawled over into neighboring rises and dips. Between the jungle, trees sprouting from the side of the mountains, and the roaring laughter of the ever-running waterfall that stood beside your home. Perhaps properly greeting the village for the first time as Chieftain would help the mental turmoil you were dealing with.
So you made the rounds, greeting the elders as you passed by them relaxing upon the steps of their homes. You made it very quickly into the story circle where legends and tales were told to the young of the tribe. Currently, they are being told the story of the Crumbling Chief, if slightly incorrect by an old crone that even the most disobedient shied away from upsetting.
Perhaps it was not a surprise that once you greeted the children, they swarmed you and demanded one of the dozens upon dozen stories.
Perhaps your efforts to appease the children were a bit misplaced, for you have very little time outside of your time to spend with the rest of the Village… But the several trips to the Children did much to forget the problems of the tribe.
[The Children of the Tribe remember you quite well and love your stories even more. The rest of the tribe not so much]
A Recollection of the Fairer [Bleh] Kind - 3 Successes Needed - Rolled; 4, 4 - 2 Successes - +1 Success from Cunning - 3 Successes Total
After the disastrous times between the Divide of the tribe, the attempt to craft more spears, and the distraction that took out of your time, when you sat down to embrace your memories fully, it was almost like you were stepping back in time.
The stone brazier before you was a roaring flame, hungrily sucking up the cold and wet air to feed itself. A few leaves, a few logs, and it roared higher and higher. The problem with being a Wave-Rider, singular that is, is the ability to reinforce the history of your people. Any old troll could tell a story, passed down from parent to child, wisdom freely given amidst you all. It could get told a dozen different times and be remembered incorrectly. O'ru becomes Oru becomes Joh'ru until it becomes an unrecognizable En'jar. Wave-riders in the past often spoke their memories to each other, reinforcing and fortifying their minds to the cruel passage of time that would rob them of their people's lives.
But with Master En'don not only having difficulties in his old age but also muttering darkly within his home over your appointment which he vehemently argued again, you were left to your own devices for the time being. Those devices in question were the aroma herbs and medicine you held in your hands.
For a Wave-Rider's memory and oral tales, you cannot simply start at the beginning of the tale of your people. Or at least not without preparation. The first thing taught to any prospective student is the need for storage and priorities. 'Ya' mind, is ya' weapon, Jalo'ki. Ya' must care for it, protect it, so ya' can retrieve an' axe to cut off that other mon's knee' Master En'don's words of wisdom often were followed by analogies of violence, but they were good lessons nonetheless. Wave-Riders often combed their minds, reminding themselves of various tales and legends, while shuffling them around. Often a Wave-Rider will spend days in their thoughts, recalling exactly what they need before they go forward and present it to tell.
You and Master En'don were doing something similar before the Chieftain's death, except it was much simpler with two people.
Casting the aromatics and the recollection materials into the fire instantly saw the smoke of the fire turn dark and hazy as the effects of the Witch Doctor's work filled your home. Five days was how long it took you. Five days of no outside interference saw you finally piece together the stories of bygone ages. Over one millennia ago; your people found Salvation.
"'Such dat it whas, dat when t'ree and t'ree met the shore, four and four set out into the green. Amidst those greens did the Trolls find Elves, and Elves fought Elves." You murmur, your voice dry, and your eyes itchy after five days of very little water or food. "A great argument for a great many deeds saw many ships burned and many ships de'd. A darkened shore, a burnin' shore, blackened by death, unblackened never evermore." Your head lulls, arms raising high in reverence, hands moving as if pulled by strings. "A bargain struck, an oath sworn true, no home for a darkened shore seen by the moon. Jagged teeth and jagged tusk, given to Trolls for their great feat and luck. Discard the sea, discard the fleet, allow no elf to see flee with all that can be. Into the mountains undisturbed, into the jungle wit' peaceful souls. Do no wrong an' do no harm, meet no arrow strung by elven arm. So it was struck, so it was seen, under Moon and Loa and Green, it was agreed."
Collapsing before an ember fueled fire, the deal as the Trolls know it was recalled and you earned your much-deserved rest.
Sort your Memories and Oral tales. What? It can be a Job AND hobby. No Master, I am not obsessed-
Rolls; 4 - A Loa Legend
When the Shatterspear was yet new to the land amidst the mountains surrounding the jungles of the vale, it was said the first time Shivallah and Bethekk were called they arrived to walk the vale alongside the trolls. To see with their own eyes to see what dwelled within the Vale and to see where the tribe made its home.
Atop the northernmost tip, staring into the sea was a stone monument whose symbolism was long lost upon the Trolls. Yet irregardless they prayed to it as they did to Shivallah and Bethekk.
Shivallah flew into a great fury at the presence of the monument, roaring a challenge to the construct, a whiny sniveling troll who begged answers from the Loa. He had built it for his Forefathers forefather told of a great Loa who once resided in their home, in honor of that Forefather he had constructed the monument.
Shivallah was even more enraged once she learned of the Troll's actions, and swiped that monument off of its perch and into the sea, with the troll alongside it.
Thus it was Shivallah who had picked the site for her shrine.
He could smell them. The trespassers. He readied his spears, one in each hand, with more in easy reach to retrieve. He had snuck away to relieve himself, but he certainly wasn't expecting that the very Elves he was meant to find alongside his patrol would be so readily willing to walk into his spears.
He crept forward, slowly, carefully. Az'ralal was no inexperienced Headhunter to fumble through the brush, no, he had hunted his brothers and sisters as much as they hunted him. His hands found the stones, carefully testing them as he pulled himself forward, his blue fur helping him blend into the gray stone and dirt of the mountainside. The Elves were strange, he could hear their murmurs as downwind as he was. They had watched their patrols before, else this was the dumbest luck he knew of. Even more dumb than Linqipu's luck when playing knucklebones, Linquipu beat even the cheaters at knucklebones with his dice.
Slowly and carefully, hiding between the mountainside and jungle, he crept ever closer. If he raised his hair to peer over the lip of the vale, he would spot them without fail.
Then he heard the flapping of wings and several more voices. Almost in a hurry, he peeked over the lip of the mountain, but it was too late. All that remained of the elves were the clear signs of their passing and the feathers of their hippogryphs.
"Bethekk's fangs around you, Az'ralal! Were you but quicker, you might have finally solved the damned elf problem." He cursed, disregarding stealth as he plodded forward. Crouching down, he inspected the tracks the elves and their strange mounts left with curiosity. The talons and hooves of the Hippogrphs formed a protective semicircle, some weighing down more into the dirt than others showing they hadn't been dismounted. Yet, there were several sets of feet. Shock almost overcame him when he saw-
"AZ'RALAL! YA' FOOL!"
He looked up to see a whole patrol of trolls scampering closer to him, but that wasn't the voice who called him. He turned to regard the Veteran headhunter who was glaring directly at him. "First ya' leave ya' patrol, now ah find ya out in the middle o' nowhere!"
"Shut ya' trap, Vo'shei! Look at what the mon found 'fore ya keep yellin' at d'em!" Nil'ku shouted as she led the other patrol of Trolls around to where he was crouched.
So it was, two dozen trolls all looked down at the very clear imprints in the dirt and mud.
Four great paws of a big cat and when the Patrol searched closer, they found even more tracks.
It took more than a few days for you to recover from the exertion of recalling the ancient dealings of the Shatterspear with the Elves when your people first arrived at the Vale. Yet now you have questions. But you were a Wave-Rider, it was almost quite literally in your blood to distinguish the facts from myth and give the tale all the respect it deserves. With the reveal of the information, still at the forefront of your mind, you laid out the clearest reasonings of the memories.
One, when the Trolls met the Elves, the Elves fought over something, most likely some infighting amidst their numbers. Maybe to do with the Trolls appearance?
Two, there was some fighting, or perhaps dark magic thrown at the shore where the Trolls landed. Why else would it make such a distinction of the dark shore, maybe it was omens and blackened shores. The fire claimed many trolls, and will never not be unmarred by what happened there.
Three, The trolls were not allowed to settle where they first landed. Because it was seen by the moon? Because the elves were forced out? Instead, they were given the vale and mountains surrounding it for their land.
Finally, it's almost explicit in its message. 'Do no wrong an' do no harm, meet no arrow strung by elven arm'. Don't break the pact, don't attack the elves…
Perhaps you should Consult Bethekk and Shivallah then? Though you're unsure what it means by 'Moon', and you don't understand who this 'Green' was, if it was Overseen by the Loa, it is clear they will hold answers for you.
Plus the matter about the elves hunting something that entered the vale…
Perhaps a meeting with the loa is better sooner rather than later.
Actions:
You may use any number of Dice from for actions, with a minimum number of 1 (Excluding Initiating War). As Chieftain of the tribe, you are not only responsible for these actions being done, you are also expected to at least oversee it being done. Once Proven, delegation becomes a great deal easier.
Might Actions - Either Military or Labor intensive actions - 2 Dice Remaining
[ ] The Time of Axe and Spear (Free Action) - It is time to set out… You have decided it is time to defend your homeland.
[ ] Sharpen Axes (2 Successes Needed) - The Warriors of the Shatterspear have long seen disuse even by your own impressive recollection. Though inexperience, the training regimen of hundreds of years has seen them still sharp. They need only the proper weapons.
[ ] Spears of the Unshattered Kind (2 Successes Needed) - The Headhunters of the Shatterspear have proven their usefulness in succeeding to find the presence of elves and the tracks of the beast that now stalks your lands. Though they were less than pleased by your previous actions, you still do require spears for their hands.
[ ] Stock up Greens (2 Successes Needed) - The Witch Doctors usually keep a good stock of their alchemical ingredients, claiming several areas around the various dips and dives of the mountains to grow their own stocks. Yet, if war is to happen you will most definitely need a stockpile for healing and enhancing the Warriors of your Tribe.
[ ] Stocking up the Bare Necessities (2 Successes Needed) - Your people mainly survive off a great deal of gathered foods from the jungle surrounding them. Fruits, Nuts, roots, Vegetables, plus the obvious Maize and Rice grown along the mountainsides, and the almost endless amount of freshwater fish that live in the lakes. Stock up on these foods and ensure your people are prepared to weather whatever storm is approaching them.
[ ] A Village Given Time (4 Successes Needed) - Almost once a generation, except once three centuries previously due to a particularly egregious case of alcohol poisoning that saw it done twice in a year, the houses and supports of the Village are seen too and repaired as they age, deconstructing before raising them back up. If you are to head to war, you will need to pre-emptively do this as much of your Labor will be fighting.
[ ] Reinforce the Village (6 Successes Needed) - With there clearly being something inside the jungle and mountains alongside the trolls, it is unclear if it is dangerous or not. Not to mention the fact this entire situation could spiral into conflict depending on the action of the Elves or the reaction of the village once it becomes common knowledge there is something stalking the hill. The headhunters have sworn upon the Loa to secrecy, the matter still remains it will get out eventually regardless.
Mind Actions - Used to find a solution to a problem - 4 Dice Remaining
[ ] A Number's Game, Two of Three (1 Success Needed) - You are now the leader of the entirety of the Shatterspear Tribe and with that comes the responsibility to actually understand and know the tribe you're now managing. Perhaps now with the success of your recollections and the time spent amidst the children telling tales has settled your mind enough to try again.
[ ] Greet the Elderly (2 Success Needed) - Though a Wave-Rider, you are not given all the wisdom the tribe has gathered. Much of it has to do with the simple amount that a Troll could recall or orate. Each has their own means, some even having no need simply able to recall all they have been told. But going and meeting the elders of your people will at the very least endear you to them for listening to the Old Guard of the tribe.
[ ] The Tribe's Troubles (3 Successes Needed) - The Shatterspear Tribe always brings all they collect, whether it is wood, food, supplies, and anything else not on the minimalist levels or not directly requested from a Witch Doctor's own gardens to present to the Chieftain and so they may distribute it. A long held system, but unless you're fully aware of all the ins and outs of where resources are needed, it is a bit of a wasted effort. Find out where best to direct your Tribe's resources.
[ ] The Hunt For Answers (4 Successes Needed) - Intrigue - Thanks to a close encounter from the tribe's patrolling Headhunters, it is clear the Elves are attempting to track something that has moved deeper into the Vale. While you cannot be certain what those elves will do, if they'll enter irregardless of the pact you made with the Elves long ago, the fact of the matter there is something in YOUR jungle. Find it.
[ ] Trespassing Elves (4 Successes Needed) - Intrigue - Everyone in the village is well aware of the Elves that are getting ever closer. Whether they hear it from the worried gossipers or directly from the Headhunters and Warriors who find ever increasing signs. But the Why of it is completely missing. You set out with some Headhunters to see if you can find out why.
[ ] The Other Side of the Mountain (4 Successes Needed) - Intrigue - With the Elves getting ever closer to the heart of Shatterspear lands, the question remains that the Tribe has no knowledge of what is happening within the Elf lands. Answers must be found, no matter the stance taken. Take some Headhunters and find exactly what is happening.
Moxie Action - Things that require diplomacy or dealing with other - 3 Dice Remaining
[ ] A Change of Ways (1 Success Needed) - With your ascension into the position of Chieftain you now stand atop a trip who is directionless. Direct them. Tell them what they must do for preparation for the future. Yet the Trolls of your tribe will eventually grow weary if you spend too long, or disaster can occur, in a differing footing from their traditional ways if spent without good cause.
- [ ] War Footing - Tell the Tribe to prepare for war. Families will begin stockpiling supplies, Artisans will begin preparing for orders of weapons, and Witch Doctors will begin preparations for more elixirs and potions. - Adds +3 Successes to Non-Military Might actions
Stockpile Footing - Tell the Tribe to stock up on all they can. The tribe collectively will begin hoarding supplies and resources either given, gathered, or made by their own hands. Often these times require rationing, so the tribe will be prepared for the worst of it. - Adds +3 Successes to Preparation actions
- [ ] Production Footing - Tell the Tribe to collect and produce raw material ready to be used for a large project of some kind. Whether it is stone, wood, or some other material needed, the tribe will rally and assist in the collection of that material to assist the village. - Adds +3 Successes to Collection Actions
- [X]Peacetime Footing - The Tribe continues as it ever has. - No Added Successes
[ ]Go and Meet the Family (1 Success Needed) - The Shatterspear is a tight knit group of trolls. Everyone knows everyone, even if it's only by reputation or through a friend of a friend. In truth, if you go back far enough, everyone is related to everyone. After spending most of your time reuniting with the Children after months of working on your role as chieftain, it is time to properly go and speak with your people.
[ ]Mend the Divide (2 Successes Needed) - You have successfully identified where exactly this strange divide within the clan is happening, and it's almost down Headhunter and Warrior lines with the rest of the tribe split between them. Yet you could very well end this before it grows out of control.
[ ] Approach Krah'Ranik - Approach the leader of the Headhunters within the Shatterspear. He clearly is more worried about saving the lives of trolls rather than setting out to war. Maybe you could convince him to come to your side?
[ ] Approach Jor'Killl - Approach the leader of the Warriors within the Shatterspear. Jor'kill is clearly all about retaliating against the Elves who even now are getting even deeper into the vale, then who knows what the young troll will do? Perhaps you can mollify him with actions, or direction.
[ ]Envoy For Answers (3 Successes Needed) - The answer is quite clear, if the Elves are encroached upon your people's lands answers must be sought out. Approach the elves directly, hopefully with some signs of peace. Establish communication to the nearest elves within the forests west of the Vale.
[ ]Matters of the Faith (3 Successes Needed) - Your people have only two loa to which they pray. Each is honored equally and some given proper respect amidst the Tribe. Nevertheless, speaking on the matters of the Loa will give some insights into the people, why they prey on each loa in particular. Every troll has their own reasons to praying towards these great protectors of your people.
Prayer Actions - Related directly to the Loa of your people. As Chieftain, they might just respond.
[ ] Pray to Bethekk - Ask the Panther Goddess for her guidance for an action (1 Turn Cooldown)
[ ] Pray to Shivallah - Ask for the Tiger Goddess for her Guidance for an Action (1 Turn Cooldown)
[ ] A Bargain Struck - With the revelation that a Loa oversaw the deal with the Elves, it is time to go and speak with the Loa about said deal. While the histories speak in vague words, the Loa might yet be able to recall the meeting in better detail. Ask them, and see what they say.
(Disclaimer: Unable to be used in the same turn you use a Prayer Action, and cannot Use a prayer on this)
[ ] Speak with Shivallah (2 dice of your choice)
[ ] Speak with Bethekk (2 dice of your Choice
[ ] Speak with Both at the same time (4 Dice of your Choice)
Personal Action - You are not always managing your people. Sometimes you simply have matters of your own you wish to partake, or simply relax.
[ ] Sort your Memories and Oral tales. What? It can be a Job AND hobby. No Master, I am not obsessed-
[ ] Move Into the Chieftain's Home - For as long as you've known, your home was a part of one of the many hills of the Vale where you live alongside your Master. It was the best place away from the Waterfall that dominated the main Valley the Shatterspear lived in. But you are the Chieftain, and the abode at the very top next to the lip of the waterfall is by far the best view and the best to receive your people… But your scrolls and tablets…
[ ] Train
- [ ]In What Skill or Weapon?
[ ] Socialize
- [ ]With Who?
[ ] Use Potion of Wisom
- [ ] What Action?
- [ ] 2 Successes
- [ ] Important Information
[ ] Write in
AN; Sorry for the small delay on the turn, I couldn't finish it before leaving work. I'll set the deadline a bit longer this time simply because its my first day off in over a week so I'll mostly likely sleep in. I accept any and all questions.
