MIGRATION LOG

[RAGNAR]

entry one by RAGNAR

camp was struck last night during an approaching weather front. being so close to the coast we were unfortunately further south than we wished to be. had previous storms naught scattered the herds and caused so much damage we would have been able to easily moved northward gradually to be ahead of the foul weather.

as this was naught the case the weather caught us. rains turning to freezing rains followed by snows and whiteout conditions made breaking camp hazardous to say the least.

it was however necessary to do so to avoid being socked in where we were. with the speed and amount of accumulation received much would have had to be abandoned had we remained. a Chance was taken and camp was packed quickly and efficiently.

the wagons have been assembled in their ranks and columns for the march to our wintering lands and thankfully casualties were kept to a bare minimum.

two wagons were involved in a collision resulting in their wheels being entangled on their right and left sides respectively resulting in the death of one Man. kadi managed to take charge of the free team and bring them under control preventing further damage and potential loss of life. the wagons were separated and repairs made through the night.

snow continued to fall at a slower rate than during the height of the weather front but accumulation is evident in the roughly foot of snow. beneath the snow the ground is still soft and will be expected to me muddy.

the wagons are halted and the teams left in their traces so we may move out as soon as some snow removal and control has been seen to.

throughout the day we have experienced occasional flurries with low temperatures. the danger at present is the windchill. guard against it!!!

interior fires only. no outdoor fires due to the winds.

the herds continued to move throughout the night and reports have returned that only a minor mishap or two befell any of the Outrider. no fatalities have been reported among the herd Outriders. the herds have stopped to paw through the snow seeking grass beneath. if they do naught press forward on their own in a reasonable length of time the Outriders will get them moving again seeking to move out of the snowbelt we seem to have been caught in.

overall a very trying and hazardous first stage of migration but one with very few casualties among people and stock and i consider it a successful venture given the current situation.

we will have to watch for snow accumulation on the wagons causing additional weight. mud builds up on the wheels adding weight also and will cause excessive stress to the wheels and axles. the teams struggle to move the existing loads and will naught last long if this additional weight is permitted to accumulate. clear the snow from the smaller wagons and the larger wagons will be kept warm enough to allow the roof snow to melt off. the freight wagons will have to be hand cleared by thralls as much as possible.

pay strict attention to the stock. check the bosk well as they are working hard in the traces and tend to the kailla well. we do have a supply of dung collected in the freight wagons but use it sparingly. it is much less than the normal supply due to the rains and dampness we faced earlier.

any bosk injured and unable to continue will be butchered and consumed. please share this meat among our family. do naught attempt to hoard it. we have plenty of meat as it seems the one thing we have aplenty at this point. do naught waste it. we will naught smoke nor try to dry any at this stage of migration. share it and waste nothing.

i hope the snows will slow further and we will be able to move onward shortly.

[RAGNAR]

entry two by RAGNAR

the weather remained harsh. it is already becoming a factor in the migration. freezing temperatures damages some medical supplies in the freight wagon, liquids in glass containers. the damage was kept to a minimum as Taryn used great care and warmed the interior with firebowls before removing them to prevent fire during the move.

Vala in all her grace and poise fell down the wagon steps breaking her legs and her pinkie toe. she is in the med wagon unconscious and now sleeping well.

the wagons moved out and covered ground at a slow but steady pace making their way up the first obstacle in our path... a long sloping grade. we nearly lost a freight wagon but Taryn managed to get the team under control and moved it up over the rise.

the wagons halted once all made it over the slope and were on level ground. the winds have eased and outdoor fires are permitted so long as the wind does naught pick up again. slaughter bosk from the herds and feast on hot meat while possible.

the bosk have been released from the wagons but remain in harness should the wagons have to move again quickly. the winds on this higher ground has swept the snow away in most areas allowing the stock to nose and root up grasses on which to feed.

it is naught the low temperature itself that is the great threat at this time. it is the wind and the windchill factor when it blows.

the snow and mud buildup on wheels added to the stress of the bosk and wagons and once gain had to be cleared while on the move.

all wheels and axles need to be checked and freed of any debris. grease as needed. we can ill afford a breakdown under these conditions. check all harnesses and tack to ensure they are in good repair. use the ash from the fires to ward off ice on the wagon steps and platforms to avoid accidents.

pay very strict attention to the stock and mounts. pay heed to their feet so none come up lame.

all Riders on watch will cut their shifts in half to avoid cold and stress. more Riders will be used but all will remain in better shape for it.

no losses were suffered to any wagons though some minor repairs and upkeep will be required. a few thrall casualties have been noted and our sister snickers now has two thrall kills under her belt. i begin to think she has an evil streak in her and likes the sounds of their popping and crushing bones beneath her wheels. when last seen she was checking the designs of gore left on her wheels when we stopped.

the going has been rough but all have performed above expectations. special mention of Krul's attention to detail and duty is noted. my True has been thus far instrumental in the success and low number of losses thus far.

though we make steady progress we are naught covering as much ground as i had hoped. the weather is the factor in this. the cold and the conditions sap our strength quickly. i do however expect to soon be out of this snowbelt area as we move away from the coast. already the snow grows less deep though the ground is still very soft under a thin layer of ice crust.

i hope to get an earlier start when we next move.

[RAGNAR]

entry three by RAGNAR

news is good. the wagons have moved out of the immediate snowbelt area and although it is still cold the temperature is beginning to rise as we move further North from the coast.

a few thralls were casualties and Snickers and Kitria claimed two of them.

the wagons moved onward and covered the rocky ground as long as it was possible before changing course to get out of the unavoidable area. the wagons will again change course before daybreak and will then continue on until reaching the river sometime in the afternoon.

no loss of wagons occurred and one bosk was put down due to a seriously broken leg. it has been dressed and is on a freight wagon until we make the river. at that time it will be cooked so nothing is wasted.

Vala is having a rough go of it and is in a great deal of pain. it is with deep regret i had to put her to sleep again the hard way.

during the move we came upon the remains of Tuchuk and Kataii Warriors listed as missing. Giselle has gathered the remains with care and respect and is bringing them with us until such a time comes we can give them a proper send off.

the ground we now travel in is short grazed off grass and the ground is extremely soft.

the general orders are to keep moving until reaching the river with periodic stops to rest the bosk and check the wagons over. then the move is to continue. camp will be made in the afternoon when it is expected the wagons will reach the river. it will naught be a long stop. only long enough to rest... eat well... check the stock and the wagons and prepare to continue. we will then make the river crossing and continue on the same course and direction.

continue to keep the wheels clear of mud and tend the wheels, axles, and stock well. a slow steady pace is recommended to conserve strength while we can.

once the river is reached we will have covered over 250 pasang in this move.

special note is made of Haldir's attention to duty. well done.

((( OOC ANNOUNCEMENT-------- i have something special planned for migration this weekend. Men Women and slaves alike should find the experience enjoyable and a welcome change of pace. please try to attend and enjoy!!! i am wishing to begin migration rp earlier than normal camp activity. if possible to get in earlier please do. )))

[RAGNAR]

entry four by RAGNAR


the snow is hopefully behind us now and the air seems much warmer than down where we started from. although the temperatures are still by no means warm, it is much better than it was. (temps now in the 40-50 range days and high 30 - low 40 rang nights)

the wagons made the first river crossing last night with overall minimal damage and losses. a few wagons suffered damage from submerged rock that will require repairs. thus far we have suffered no overall wagon losses and loss of life has been negligible given our great numbers.

the crossing went well though the mud of the banks offered resistance and did tax the teams. submerged rocks made the crossing treacherous and the extremely cold water sapped the strength of man and beast alike.

those wagons suffering damage were temporarily rigged to reach our destination and were successful. they may now get the much needed more permanent repairs.

the ground is still somewhat soft but again... nothing like it was. overall migration thus far as been very kind compared to those of the past.

this leg of our journey carried us well over 100 pasang and given the river crossing which was slow and hazardous, i am quite pleased with our progress.

we are now camped just outside the walls of Turia and will venture into the city this night after we have rested and tended the stock. we will spend a few days here bartering and tending to the necessary matters so we will be well supplied, outfitted, and ready to winter well.

it has been some time since we have visited a city and i look forward to the taverns, baths, and exotic food and drink that will be available... as well as finally getting resupplied and building our stores once again.

Snickers managed to bump off a couple more thralls.

Vala is still unconscious and at this point... sleep is the best way for her to pass the time.

our herds and advance units has fires and roasting bosk awaiting us when we reached Turia. they have encountered only a few very minor injuries and no losses.

an old abandoned Kassar freight wagon was found upon the Plains and a short time later the reason was discovered. skeletal remains of Kassar Warriors nd Turian Guardsman were found amid the bones of their kailla and tharlarian. weapons and debris suggest a skirmish resulted as the wagon was being moved sometime at least a season ago. anything and everything of value was gathered and although the wagon was damaged and without a roof the wood was taken as well as a few other items from within that was still useable. any weapons or pieces of value were gathered and the remains of both Kassar and Turian Men were left undisturbed where they fell.


(((special note- - - - - -Tuchuk will begin rp in our territory room in the high grasses and when we have prepared and seen to the immediate needs, we will proceed into Turia at Ameeshia Chat for continued rp. this should take place around 8 or 9 pm EST this night and may continue until further notice. any Merchants are also welcome to come to Turia and engage in their sales and bartering skills with us as well as one another. if any know of any Merchants who wish to rp please pass this along. be on your best Tuchuk behavior and bear in mind their is an uneasy condition of peace with Turia. Turia is needed though naught well liked. OOC'ly remember to thank ameeshia as well as any merchants we meet for the opportunity to take advantage of a chance at focusing on commerce and city style rp as a change of pace. we are Tuchuk... but try to behave as much as possible. *W* LOL)))

[RAGNAR]

entry five by RAGNAR

all goes well in Ameeshia Chat Turia. bartering, buying, and commerce are all well and good. very few minor incidents of questionable dealings.

repairs are underway to the wagons and the stock is grazing and resting well.

provisions are being put up Turia and the merchants are more than happy to part with goods for our vast wealth of gold.

no "real" escorts are necessary to venture into Turia. there are Tuchuks everywhere anyway. enjoy a bath in the public baths...enjoy exotic foods in the food court and barter and haggle over goods along the venue from the merchants. there is a great deal to enjoy as well as a great deal to stock up on before we move on.

the rest and relaxation does us all good.

http://www.ameeshia.com/rooms/4014/index.html

[RAGNAR]

entry six by RAGNAR


we continue to camp outside Turia and resupply. repairs seem to be well underway and we should be able to move on after a final day of trade and bartering to refill our provisions.

overall it has been a good venture and have had only a few incidents with the locals... they started it all naturally.... uncivilised city vermin. (((LOL)))

some of us have been fortunate enough to make some new aquaintenc es among those frequenting the city.

thus far the city still stands and even the tavern is still in business and fully functional though i do suspect some renovations will be forthcoming.

Turia welcomes merchants and traders and this is of value to all those on the Plains. continue to trade and put up provisions. we will likely continue to make regular visits to the city and conduct trade.

(((as a reminder... no actual escorts are needed to rp in Turia. just NPC your escorts and enjoy!!!)))

[RAGNAR]

entry seven by RAGNAR


last moment preparations are being seen to in Turia. he wagons will be moving on this eve on the next leg of our migration to our wintering lands.

any still having business to tend to in Turia need to finish it up as soon as possible.

the bosk will need gathered and placed back in teams and traces. ready the wagons and secure all gear.

provisions are being delivered and are being loaded. once again the freight wagons are holding a great deal of goods.

though we are now provisioned, i am concerned about the weight of the necessary provisions and the teams pulling these large freight wagons. the hardest part of our journey is still before us.

thus far all has been fairly good in Turia aside from dealing with a few merchants and their rather greedy tendencies but those were hammered out. a great many merchants were quite pleased as their entire inventory has been purchased and loaded.

there will be a short amount of time still left in Turia to procure and tend to any final supplies or business transactions before we pull out. so get'er done!!!

the temperature dipped some last night but has risen to being in the 50's this day. the main herds have been assembled and are preparing to move out with their Outrider escorts.

[RAGNAR]

entry eight by RAGNAR


the wagons have left Turia after another day of provisioning and preparations.

twenty pasang was covered easily and we are now camped overnight at the springs.

the wagons had a brief encounter with a Scout whose people have yet to be identified. lil Man was wounded but did well in sounding the alarm. the Scout and his mount were killed in an attempt to capture them.

water the stock and fill all water casks. check the axles for grease and give all the wagons a good once-over to make sure all repairs made while in Turia were successful and will hold. water the teams in their traces in case we need to move quickly.

the temp at night is still in the 40's but the daylight temperatures are up in the 50's range. we have encountered a good wind but thus far it is nothing to be concerned about.

the ground is still soft but naught as muddy as it was.

the Outrider patrols have been doubled as well as the Guards around the perimeter of the wagons. none are to stray far from the wagons.

since we just left Turia and our encampment there should be lil need for any great meal preparations. use simple brazier fires and eat what is necessary.

we will move out again come the morrow..

[RAGNAR]

entry nine by RAGNAR

the wagons have made a fair distance covering about 200 pasang before being forced to stop due to weather. a serious windstorm accompanied by thunder and lightning forced the wagons to halt for the night.

all wagons will need to be checked over thoroughly prior to our next move. minimal damage was reported and thus far Kitya's wagon suffered the most damage only losing three bosk hides from its roof. repairs are already underway now that the winds have died down and the wagon should be ready to roll when necessary.

a few injuries were reported and thus far none have been serious.

so long as the winds remain normal outdoor fires are permitted. there is only grazed grass around us so we will naught remain here long. see to the stock as usual and be prepared to move.

eat and rest as well as possible after the repairs and stock have been seen to.

the air was actually warmer once the weather front moved on. this is a definite sign we are getting closer to our wintering lands.

here was no further sign of any Scouts nor is there any new clues who the Scout was sent by. the Patrols remain doubled as does the wagon camp watch.

Snickers actually managed naught to slay any thralls this leg of our journey though Taryn did report one being killed.

lil Man managed to make good his escape from the med wagon and is back with Amber once again.

thus far i am very pleased with our migration and extremely pleased at the very low losses in both people and property.

i can naught however shake the ominous feeling knowing we will soon reach our River of Tears. it is only a feeling based upon past experiences... but still...

i am deeply concerned.

[Kitya]

*mutters unkind thoughts about the ST*

[Raziel]

Migration Log, Entry 10
Raziel

We started late this night.  Awaiting word for the Ubar as he rode ahead with advance scouts.  This was my decision and my responsibility in hopes of hearing from him first before giving the order to move out.

The travel was slow.  The animals were at unease from the start.  Their pace was not like that of days past where we could cover pasangs like we were on tarns.  An eerie gloom covered the length of our journey during this leg.  I felt shivers most of the leg.

We lost a few wagons as the damage reports come in.  Debris was scattered throughout the land.  Many spoke of bad omens and of foreboding danger.  I attempted to quell the rising fear as best I could in the absence of the Ubar.

We only managed about 60 pasangs during this leg.  Not due to current conditions but to the pace of the animals.  Many were forced to surge through this land.

Camp was made.  Fires are kept to a minimum for warm and light only.  The animals are to be cared for and those that lost wagons during this leg will be sheltered in the med wagons until other provisions can be made after we reach wintering lands.  Care for the bosk teams and wagons are the highest priorities before the crossing.

There was still no word of the Ubar by the time we made camp.  My apprehension for the upcoming leg I try to keep hidden, though I cant help but feel it in the pit of my stomach everytime I look ahead.

The guards were kept as the Ubar had them.  I changed the rotation to allow maximum rest for everyone.  All will need it.

I cant help but think back to our last winter migration.  We traveled through what appeared to be a graveyard.  The old ones called it a cursed land and from the looks of it, I can see why they call it such.  I felt surrounded by death and the winds howled a warning to us.  I could nearly feel the ghosts that lamented still.  What could have caused such destruction?  The Old One, KutaiKahn, knew it well.  Apparitions seemed to haunt me of family we have lost and finally, I knew.  I could feel what it was and what happened, it was all because of sacrifice.  For the safety of Tuchuk as a whole, I finally knew what had befallen those that walked in the wind still, the sacrifice of stragglers and those that could not keep up with migration, they were left behind.  I do not feel well about what is to come. 

My family is in danger, Im afraid.  We approach the River of Tears.

[Raziel]

Entry Log 11

As reported by a watch commander;

Commander Raziel called forth the move as we made way for the river of tears.  The clouds were still overhead but the column made excellent pace.  There were hardly any damages or delays as we rode to the River of Tears

We lost 3 Outriders and two kaiila during a rogue larl attack.  Two males apparently, old and hungry to attack so boldly.  They were taken down after attack Lady Snickers wagon and the Amber's wagon teams.

As the column recovered and started to make ground, word came from an Outrider that the herd had started to make their crossing but the river had swollen to likes unbefore.  Thousands of bosk were lost.

Commander Raziel led the crossing, forming a barricade of wagons.  Larger ones upstream, then smaller ones next to them in hopes of slowing the current to allow the herd to cross with better ease.  Many wagons were lost during the crossing and hundreds of lives were claimed by the River of Tears.  The shores were lined with bodies of men, bosk and kaiila alike, drowned or trampled. 

The remains of some of the Scouts and Askari were seen floating down river, apparently they forded the river looking for easier crossing, still no word of the Ubar.

Haldir and Necron set up a lifeline for those that could reach it and cross safely before drowning in the insatiable river.

Last to cross was Commander Raziel and his Outriders, making sure all were safely crossed when a wall of water overcame them and half the Outriders to include Commander Raziel were washed under.  They were not seen again, though their mounts, some of them, made it to shore. 

The bosk herded and settled safely beyond the river and the wagons were regrouped beyond the reach of the river till a more accurate report could be accounted for at first light.

Amber Dragonsfury gathered the Tuchuk and called to reorganize.  She led the way to regroup the wagons and start assessing damages and reports.  Commanders alike all cheered up and moved to her inspirations.

Hopes are still high as Tuchuk survives and most importantly the bosk have made it but not without the River of Tears taking their toll.

Sacrifices were made by all to see to Tuchuks survival and we keep hopes that some are simply lost and we will find them.

More to follow.

[Raziel]

Entry Log 12

As reported by a watch commander;

The Ubar's son Terran made the crossing further upstream and arrived to camp, noted the devestation and was not happy.  As reports were given, an Askari bosk horn was sounded somewhere in the distance.  Terran and Haldir gave way to a search party hoping some where still alive and went to deliver help.

The Healers are working overtime under the guidance of Giselle and many have fallen due to exhaustion.  The rains and wind have stopped and orders were given to gather the bodies of the fallen and the bosk and what could be cooked of the bosk to feed the survivors were done so.  Camp was struck and repairs are underway.

Whispers were made to camp that perhaps the Ubar and Commander Raziel were found.  Rumors for now, at least this is hope. 

All of Tuchuk are being seen to as quick as possible.  We will hold here further until the bosk move.  There is still much travel to come.

More to follow.

[Haldir]

-report giving by Haldir- Terran and I found the Ubar and Raziel on the banks of the river and two Askari was all but left...We got them back to the med wagon as they seem to have a concussions and are all busted up the Askari are in bad shape..but Hope has been restored in the camp..The healers should see to there wounds and check for broken bones and keep them warm as much as they can...I leave the rest to the healers and the Gods and the great Sky....-end report-

[RAGNAR]

log entry by several Commanders




the migration has come to an end. work will now begin to get the wagons into position and camp set-up shall begin.

Raziel and Ragnar remain in the med wagon along with many others pending release back to duty as well as a few still listed as iffy.

897 bosk were lost to the hazardous journey with 893 lost as a direct result of the River of Tears.

10 bosk are still in question at this time.

47 kailla were lost with 43 lost as a direct result of the RoT.

the losses to other stock were minor.

old Men...

3 lost to the strain of old age.

1 lost to accidental death.

12 lost to the RoT.

6 under care in the med wagon.


old Women...

1 lost to the strain of old age.

0 lost to accidental death.

9 lost to the RoT.

8 under care in the med wagon.


children...

1 lost to accidental death.

4 lost to the RoT.

3 under Healers care.


Women...

1 lost to accidental death.

9 lost to the RoT.

15 under Healers care.

11 missing

Men...

4 lost to accidental death.

87 lost to the RoT.

67 under Healers care.

33 MIA

slaves...

28 thralls killed, 9 injured.

12 kajira killed, 7 injured.

7 kettles killed, 3 injured.

Wagon Casualties

undisclosed number requiring minor repairs.

6 large freight wagons requiring heavy repairs.

2 large freight wagons lost to the RoT... salvage operations underway.

1 flatbed freight wagon carrying wood lost to the RoT, it broke up and load was washed away.

10 smaller auxiliary wagons lost to the RoT... salvage operations underway.


Standing Orders...

begin moving wagons into order for winter camp. begin camp set-up and get repairs underway.

set up all commissary wagons and prepare for good meals. the nourishment will be needed!

the bodies gathered and stored according to Giselle's instruction will now be cleaned and the identification process begun. have them prepared to be sent on their journey to Endless Sky. Immediate Families may claim the bodies and may see to the arrangements personally or they may opt for the mass disposition of remains at a time to be announced by the Ubar.

once each wagon is in place the teams may be turned out. tend all harness, traces, yokes, etc and stow them until next needed.

each free of Tuchuk should give thanks to Endless Sky for our survival and life anew at our wintering lands. remember those lost and the sacrifices made so that Tuchuk might live on.

there is much work to be done but do remember to rest as much as possible. it has been a hard journey and it will weight heavily on Tuchuk. recover!

the largest number of bosk lost have been recovered and are being butchered for camp use. this meat is first priority among food stores. dry it, smoke it, consume it. waste nothing. the hides shall be made ready for roof repairs and general use ASAP. the great horns and hooves will be stored in the freight wagons. make paste/glue and other items from these ASAP though the horns ill last in storage for some time. the large numbers of innards are to be fed to the sleen and those kailla that due to injuries are unable to properly hunt and kill at this time. whatever is left at this time may be fed to secondary carnivorous critters in camp.

we have good weather for a time. the temperatures range in the 60 - 70 degree are during the day and 40 to 50 degree area at night. this is the general rough temperature. we will have days where it can go higher or lower so be prepared.

Tuchuk is roughly a day lower than our wintering camp was last year by wagon. by kailla it is but a half day away. the grasses are lush and green and will adequately support our stock in this region. the herds will move about more as needed.

thus far Scouts report game is plentiful and the camp is located in an area allowing a good field of vision in all directions.

the river we camp against is shallow... roughly three feet at its deepest with a good rocky bottom and sandy edges leading to the banks. the backs are a easy gently slope and seem solid. thewater moves well and is clean and clear. there are plenty of the smaller varieties of fishes.

there are springs in the are as well that are open above ground and feed into the river through underground rocky runoffs. these springs are hot and will be good for bathing. the ground here is extremely flat and the rise on which the Ubar's wagon always rests.. the highest point in camp... is hardly noticeable as one walks through the area.

the ground is solid with only the top few fingers being somewhat soft from rains a few nights ago. mud should not be much of a problem as the grasses are still high. cut what needs to be cut but use the grazing stock to shorten the grasses as well as the verr to shorten grasses under wagons and other areas the bosk are unable to access.

oddly enough... it seems Tuchuk has paid a price to reap the benefits of such fine wintering lands. as we are a superstitious lot... we would rejoice in this bounty of eden as well as mourn those lost securing it for us. some may question the logic in making the River of Tears crossing under such conditions. let them wonder. we as Tuchuks follow the Mother of Tuchuk... our Bosk. we are herders and tend to them. in return they provide for us. in such important matters as our wintering lands... we listen to those with more experience than us. the bosk were here before Tuchuk. their instincts go back further than ours. where they go... we go. the crossing was costly... but in the end... one look at our wintering lands and in a very harsh sort of way...

the crossing was worth it.