It has been almost a year since my last update, and we have come so far!
After leaving the desert, and traveling back to the coast with Giselle in tow, we set off over the mountain passes once again. This time, however, we headed inland, away from the coast, and over the tallest mountains I've ever seen. There were times I felt as though my chest would burst trying to get enough air just to breathe! And even in mid-summer, the nights were so cold that we needed extra blankets just to be comfortable.
Eventually, we made it to the other side of the pass, and I was stunned with what lay ahead of us. I had no idea that there was so much land! It seemed to stretch out before us forever, and held a wealth of opportunity that we could explore.
After the chill of the mountains, the desert heat was almost unbearable. It took weeks to reach the end of the barren sands, and we were close to death. Our water had run out and our bodies were so tired and painful that we were tempted to give up. We managed to push forward a little more every day, though, until finally we found a lake.
We stayed at the lake for the winter, healing ourselves after the hardships of the desert. When the spring rains stopped, we were ready to continue our search for a safe place to settle in.
We didn't need to go far.
We've discovered a small community called Lost Hollow that suits us quite well. We've settled onto a plot where the animals can graze the day away, and the breeze blows most of the summer heat away.
There are a dozen families here, and a larger community for trading a day's ride south. So far this seems pretty much perfect, and it's good to belong.
Monday, July 13, 2015
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Exhaustion
We've spent much of the last month shifting boxes and things. Some things were small, delicate and fragile, others were huge cumbersome beasts that threatened to snap us in half if we so much as breathed wrong.
It was the whole reason for this trek into the desert. A wise man, an elder, passed away and his granddaughter (honestly nobody really knows if they were actually related or not, but that's what she was referred to) decided to become a traveler. The village they lived in had died, and she was practically alone so it made sense. No one knew how old the elder was, but he always claimed his great grandfather was from the time before.
With the amount of stuff in the house, I believe it!
Unfortunately, Giselle, his granddaughter, was too attached to so many of the items. Space and weight is severely limited, even in the biggest of caravans. The house she was in was so packed full of huge solid furniture, and delicate glass ornaments (which wouldn't make it through the first mountain pass), there was no way she could keep it all. It all contained memories for her, though, and parting with her grandfather's prized possessions wasn't easy. There were more tears than I ever care to experience again!
Something happened to us while we were attempting to talk her out of keeping absolutely everything: we fell in love with some of the things, too. I was reminded of my childhood, part of a community, having a place I belonged. True, that community had a tendency to change, but I had my bearings, I always knew where I was in relation to the Earth.
Steve never really had that, nor did he ever desire it, until now. Seeing the massive garden and ranch the old man had may have had something to do with it. We spent the cool desert evenings sitting on the back stoop watching the stars.
We've headed inland to find home. A place to settle in. A place to belong. A community to grow.
It was the whole reason for this trek into the desert. A wise man, an elder, passed away and his granddaughter (honestly nobody really knows if they were actually related or not, but that's what she was referred to) decided to become a traveler. The village they lived in had died, and she was practically alone so it made sense. No one knew how old the elder was, but he always claimed his great grandfather was from the time before.
With the amount of stuff in the house, I believe it!
Unfortunately, Giselle, his granddaughter, was too attached to so many of the items. Space and weight is severely limited, even in the biggest of caravans. The house she was in was so packed full of huge solid furniture, and delicate glass ornaments (which wouldn't make it through the first mountain pass), there was no way she could keep it all. It all contained memories for her, though, and parting with her grandfather's prized possessions wasn't easy. There were more tears than I ever care to experience again!
Something happened to us while we were attempting to talk her out of keeping absolutely everything: we fell in love with some of the things, too. I was reminded of my childhood, part of a community, having a place I belonged. True, that community had a tendency to change, but I had my bearings, I always knew where I was in relation to the Earth.
Steve never really had that, nor did he ever desire it, until now. Seeing the massive garden and ranch the old man had may have had something to do with it. We spent the cool desert evenings sitting on the back stoop watching the stars.
We've headed inland to find home. A place to settle in. A place to belong. A community to grow.
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Strange
The desert is such a strange place to be.
We were following a particularly flat, straight, utterly lifeless stretch of the trail when we spotted a lake just to our left. We are very aware of how little water we have, and it was very tempting to leave the safety of the well traveled path. Luckily, our water stores are still in good shape, and we have been warned of some of the dangers of the desert. Upon closer examination, the "lake" turned out to be an oasis. It's not hard to see how so many travelers get lost and disappear out here chasing phantom liquid.
The creatures here are equally strange. The other morning, just as the sun was breaking over the horizon, a line of large animals wondered by us, then cut across the desert sand keeping in a single file line. They were similar to our horses, but much larger with shaggy, sandy colored coats. The skin on their backs was soft looking, bunched up like they were born with too much skin and muscle and the excess got piled up there for some reason. And their knees were backwards! It was quite an unusual sight. I don't think I've ever seen anything like them.
Steve called them something as unusual as their appearance, something like catamals. Or something. I think the hardships of the desert are getting to me. The hardships of traveling are finally weighing on me. I've been dwelling a lot on my childhood lately. There's a part of me that wants to settle in a place, be part of a base again. There's so much more to see, though! It's a confusing dilemma.
There's still time to experience things. We have this run to finish, and then... Well, the "and then" will come next I suppose.
We were following a particularly flat, straight, utterly lifeless stretch of the trail when we spotted a lake just to our left. We are very aware of how little water we have, and it was very tempting to leave the safety of the well traveled path. Luckily, our water stores are still in good shape, and we have been warned of some of the dangers of the desert. Upon closer examination, the "lake" turned out to be an oasis. It's not hard to see how so many travelers get lost and disappear out here chasing phantom liquid.
The creatures here are equally strange. The other morning, just as the sun was breaking over the horizon, a line of large animals wondered by us, then cut across the desert sand keeping in a single file line. They were similar to our horses, but much larger with shaggy, sandy colored coats. The skin on their backs was soft looking, bunched up like they were born with too much skin and muscle and the excess got piled up there for some reason. And their knees were backwards! It was quite an unusual sight. I don't think I've ever seen anything like them.
Steve called them something as unusual as their appearance, something like catamals. Or something. I think the hardships of the desert are getting to me. The hardships of traveling are finally weighing on me. I've been dwelling a lot on my childhood lately. There's a part of me that wants to settle in a place, be part of a base again. There's so much more to see, though! It's a confusing dilemma.
There's still time to experience things. We have this run to finish, and then... Well, the "and then" will come next I suppose.
Monday, May 19, 2014
A new adventure
We've begun a trek across the desert- it’s a long story. So
far, it’s been a bit unsettling. There are so many structures out in the middle
of nowhere; this area must have been inhabited at some point. Some of the
buildings have obviously been burnt out, others just look like they've been
reclaimed by the desert after people abandoned them. Who would want to live in
the middle of an arid desert? I wonder if this used to be a lush area that
slowly dried up and forced people to leave in search of water and fertile
ground.
One thing does bother me quite a bit, though. On all of the
buildings, there are strange markings. Sometimes they seem to be layered like
too many people had messages to write, and not enough space. It does appear to
be language of some sort, but there’s no way for us to decipher it. And it’s in
all kinds of colors, too! Pinks and blues, and of course black. Some just look
like scribbles, but others truly are works of art. I wonder what the
civilization was like that lived here.
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Aches
We've been pushing hard the last few days to reach the township. We've come across n abandoned homestead on the outskirts, which is where we spent the night last. Everyone is tired and sore, but knowing we're so close to the township is helping to push us forward.
The weather has really started warming lately, which is making our clipped pace even more difficult. This morning, though, we awoke to grey, foggy skies. The clouds are hugging the tops of the hills around us, and it's made it quite cool and comfortable. Occasionally, there is a slight rumble overhead, and we keep wondering who, or what, is passing by overhead.
It's why we've been pushing so hard lately. Every day more airships cruise by, east bound. Why? What has happened in the township?
A cup of coffee, and then we'll break camp and head off once more. With any luck, we'll be in the heart of the township in 2 days time.
The weather has really started warming lately, which is making our clipped pace even more difficult. This morning, though, we awoke to grey, foggy skies. The clouds are hugging the tops of the hills around us, and it's made it quite cool and comfortable. Occasionally, there is a slight rumble overhead, and we keep wondering who, or what, is passing by overhead.
It's why we've been pushing so hard lately. Every day more airships cruise by, east bound. Why? What has happened in the township?
A cup of coffee, and then we'll break camp and head off once more. With any luck, we'll be in the heart of the township in 2 days time.
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Rumbles
Yesterday afternoon, 3 airships rumbled by overhead. We're on the side of a mountain that is densely packed with trees, so we weren't spotted. I don't think it would have mattered much, though. We couldn't tell, from our vantage point, if they were Skyrates or Soldiers, but the general consensus is Skyrates.
They were heading East at a clipped pace. Not sure if that's good or bad news for the fate of the township.
The birds are still silent. It's putting me very ill at ease. I miss their songs. I've been leaving out some grains and seeds trying to entice them closer. Thus far, my efforts have been in vain. There are no voices of nature on this mountain. What does that mean?
They were heading East at a clipped pace. Not sure if that's good or bad news for the fate of the township.
The birds are still silent. It's putting me very ill at ease. I miss their songs. I've been leaving out some grains and seeds trying to entice them closer. Thus far, my efforts have been in vain. There are no voices of nature on this mountain. What does that mean?
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Ninkeys
I haven't been able to shake off this depression that's consumed me. So, yesterday after we made camp, May, Ian, and I decided to scout the area looking for something to pick the mood up- flowers, berries, nuts, etc. We didn't find anything like that, but something did find us that took a bit of the load off for a bit. A troop of Ninkeys!
They're smallish animals, covered in hair, and very playful and mischievous. They descended on us from the trees overhead, curious about what we were. One in particular took a liking to Ian, and decided to include him in their game of climbing and romping around. May and I settled back to watch, as the Ninkeys were not interested in the two of us. I suspect it's because Ian was so much similar to their size that they found him so intriguing.
And they were loud! Their vocalizations to one another were, at times, so piercing that it felt like my head would split in two! Ian didn't seem bothered by their sharp cries. In fact, he began joining the chorus! Whooping and hollering like a wild man. At first the Ninkeys seemed confused by his mimicry, but then I actually think they enjoyed him trying to be as much a part of their troop as possible.
I don't know how long we sat there. Eventually, the light began to dip low, and the Ninkeys began to drift off, finding someplace to spend the night. So, we returned to camp, too. The heaviness of my mental burden returned with me, much to my dismay. Hopefully I'll be able to leave it behind soon.
They're smallish animals, covered in hair, and very playful and mischievous. They descended on us from the trees overhead, curious about what we were. One in particular took a liking to Ian, and decided to include him in their game of climbing and romping around. May and I settled back to watch, as the Ninkeys were not interested in the two of us. I suspect it's because Ian was so much similar to their size that they found him so intriguing.
And they were loud! Their vocalizations to one another were, at times, so piercing that it felt like my head would split in two! Ian didn't seem bothered by their sharp cries. In fact, he began joining the chorus! Whooping and hollering like a wild man. At first the Ninkeys seemed confused by his mimicry, but then I actually think they enjoyed him trying to be as much a part of their troop as possible.
I don't know how long we sat there. Eventually, the light began to dip low, and the Ninkeys began to drift off, finding someplace to spend the night. So, we returned to camp, too. The heaviness of my mental burden returned with me, much to my dismay. Hopefully I'll be able to leave it behind soon.
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
One foot in front of the other
We're on the move again, but I have to admit that I'm really struggling.
The sun is shining brightly, there's a lovely breeze to keep it not too hot, but I can't shake the feeling that it's all coming undone. Most of the birds have disappeared. I think they're probably all nesting somewhere, but it is strange to have the world so quiet.
It's more than that, though.
I suppose it possibly stems from how I was raised. My parents settled in the township when I was quite young, so I don't really remember being on the move as a kid. It had it's own share of hardships staying in one place. In lean years, my parents would stress a lot. And it seemed every time I made a friend, it wasn't long before they were moving on to new and more exciting places.
But I always knew where home was. I knew where I belonged, and what to expect from the surrounding natural world.
Now, home is not a place. I feel like we've somehow let the kids down- not that the kids seem to even notice. This is their life, and they've never known it any different. And normally I enjoy the change of scenery and people, it's just that sometimes I wish we had a place of our own. Somewhere we could put down roots.
The sun is shining brightly, there's a lovely breeze to keep it not too hot, but I can't shake the feeling that it's all coming undone. Most of the birds have disappeared. I think they're probably all nesting somewhere, but it is strange to have the world so quiet.
It's more than that, though.
I suppose it possibly stems from how I was raised. My parents settled in the township when I was quite young, so I don't really remember being on the move as a kid. It had it's own share of hardships staying in one place. In lean years, my parents would stress a lot. And it seemed every time I made a friend, it wasn't long before they were moving on to new and more exciting places.
But I always knew where home was. I knew where I belonged, and what to expect from the surrounding natural world.
Now, home is not a place. I feel like we've somehow let the kids down- not that the kids seem to even notice. This is their life, and they've never known it any different. And normally I enjoy the change of scenery and people, it's just that sometimes I wish we had a place of our own. Somewhere we could put down roots.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Surprise treat
Every night, before we bed ourselves down, I leave out a bowl of milk for the fairies. Steve thinks it's silly and a waste, but my Grandmother passed the tradition on to me. She told me that in the time before the caves, people often left offerings for the fay folk. Even people who didn't believe! In the time of the caves, things became very scarce, so the ones who didn't believe stopped the offerings. Many of those bloodlines have now been lost. The ones who kept the old traditions were protected, and even helped by the fay. Whether or not that's true, or just the ramblings of an old woman, I don't know. But, I do know we sometimes enjoy secret visits by the fay.
It is true that most of the time the milk is gone come morning, with footprints in the dirt belonging to any number of animals. Usually the cat. But sometimes, the milk is gone, no footprints left behind, and something else in it's place!
This morning we awoke to sugared petals. We've decided to use some of our precious sugar to make a cake and put the petals on it. I can hardly wait for evening meal!
Which brings me to our next surprise of the morning- all the chickens are laying again! One of our girls keeps us in eggs no matter what is happening in the world. But the others... well, sometimes they need a bit of convincing. But while Ian was waiting for morning meal, he came across not 1, not 2, but 5 eggs! This evening's meal will be a veritable feast.
It is true that most of the time the milk is gone come morning, with footprints in the dirt belonging to any number of animals. Usually the cat. But sometimes, the milk is gone, no footprints left behind, and something else in it's place!
This morning we awoke to sugared petals. We've decided to use some of our precious sugar to make a cake and put the petals on it. I can hardly wait for evening meal!
Which brings me to our next surprise of the morning- all the chickens are laying again! One of our girls keeps us in eggs no matter what is happening in the world. But the others... well, sometimes they need a bit of convincing. But while Ian was waiting for morning meal, he came across not 1, not 2, but 5 eggs! This evening's meal will be a veritable feast.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Stopped yet again
My poor little boy is sick. He was up most of the night before last with stomach troubles, and spent yesterday in severe distress. Steve spent most of the afternoon scouting the area for food and herbs. Ian spent most of the day complaining. He does not make a good patient!
This morning he is still complaining of a sore stomach and his appetite isn't back yet, but I suspect he is on the mend. We've decided to stay put another day, hoping he'll be right to travel tomorrow. With all the illnesses we've endured, granted most of them were me, I feel like we're not going to make it to the township until the end of Summer!
This morning he is still complaining of a sore stomach and his appetite isn't back yet, but I suspect he is on the mend. We've decided to stay put another day, hoping he'll be right to travel tomorrow. With all the illnesses we've endured, granted most of them were me, I feel like we're not going to make it to the township until the end of Summer!
Monday, March 25, 2013
Long days
We've put a lot of ground underneath our feet in the last few days. I'm still feeling rather unwell, but the concoction of herbs is making some difference. At least I have some of my energy back. May and I are still experimenting with different combinations, hoping something will finally work. She's been invaluable these last few days, though. I'm not sure where we'd be without her.
Unfortunately, we now suspect something got into our food storage. We've all been sick with stomach issues for the last 3 days. With my compromised health, I seem to have gotten it the worst. Ian appeared to have been the only one unaffected, but this morning even he woke up in pain. We've decided to press on, albeit at a much slower pace.
At least the weather is cooperating. It's been lovely- sunny and warm. None of us have really been in the mood to fully enjoy the long days, but it does seem to ease even the discomfort of cramping stomach muscles.
The nights are beginning to warm up as well, a sure sign that summer isn't far away. Last night, I lay awake listening to a pack of wolves howling in the distance and the screech of an owl overhead. I love the sounds at night, and I've missed them over the cold winter months. Nature seems so quiet during those long nights.
Unfortunately, we now suspect something got into our food storage. We've all been sick with stomach issues for the last 3 days. With my compromised health, I seem to have gotten it the worst. Ian appeared to have been the only one unaffected, but this morning even he woke up in pain. We've decided to press on, albeit at a much slower pace.
At least the weather is cooperating. It's been lovely- sunny and warm. None of us have really been in the mood to fully enjoy the long days, but it does seem to ease even the discomfort of cramping stomach muscles.
The nights are beginning to warm up as well, a sure sign that summer isn't far away. Last night, I lay awake listening to a pack of wolves howling in the distance and the screech of an owl overhead. I love the sounds at night, and I've missed them over the cold winter months. Nature seems so quiet during those long nights.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Parting ways
Joshua's tribe headed East over the mountains early this morning. Our start is taking much longer. We'll be heading South, but I'm slowing us down. I simply don't have the energy.
May, Joshua's healer, made a new concoction of herbs for me, but it will take a few days to take affect. She made a hard decision to continue South with us rather than stay with her family and travel East. She wants to visit the township to speak with the healers there. She may even stay there to learn as much as she can. She's quite young, but seems to have a talent for healing. It will be nice to have her with us.
May, Joshua's healer, made a new concoction of herbs for me, but it will take a few days to take affect. She made a hard decision to continue South with us rather than stay with her family and travel East. She wants to visit the township to speak with the healers there. She may even stay there to learn as much as she can. She's quite young, but seems to have a talent for healing. It will be nice to have her with us.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
System shut down
I'm currently finding things very difficult. Just putting a thought together is almost too much effort. My traitor of a body has decided to remind me, once again, how completely wrong I am.
A number of years ago, I fell ill. With a great deal of effort, I beat the disease back, but it took it's toll. I wouldn't describe myself as delicate by any means, but it does take a lot more to keep me alive than I would like. I'm on a plethora of herbs and medicines in an effort to keep my body running- even if it's only ever at a percentage of what others around me experience.
Normally, I don't spend much time thinking about it. It's just the way life is sometimes. But at times like now, when the herbs and medicines refuse to work, I start to feel sorry for myself. A waste of energy, sure, but I think sometimes we all need a little bit of inner coddling.
We were due to part ways with Joshua's tribe this morning, but my rapid decline in muscle function last night prompted his healer to convince the group to stay with us another day. She's experimenting with some of her kit to come up with a solution to my problem. Everything I have tried so far has failed, so I'm deeply grateful for the input. It's now even more important that I reach the township, though, as I will be able to consult with some of the most talented healers I know of.
I'm so tired, it's hard to think.
A number of years ago, I fell ill. With a great deal of effort, I beat the disease back, but it took it's toll. I wouldn't describe myself as delicate by any means, but it does take a lot more to keep me alive than I would like. I'm on a plethora of herbs and medicines in an effort to keep my body running- even if it's only ever at a percentage of what others around me experience.
Normally, I don't spend much time thinking about it. It's just the way life is sometimes. But at times like now, when the herbs and medicines refuse to work, I start to feel sorry for myself. A waste of energy, sure, but I think sometimes we all need a little bit of inner coddling.
We were due to part ways with Joshua's tribe this morning, but my rapid decline in muscle function last night prompted his healer to convince the group to stay with us another day. She's experimenting with some of her kit to come up with a solution to my problem. Everything I have tried so far has failed, so I'm deeply grateful for the input. It's now even more important that I reach the township, though, as I will be able to consult with some of the most talented healers I know of.
I'm so tired, it's hard to think.
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Recovery
We're about to separate from Joshua's tribe in another couple of days. We've been traveling along the foothills for the past week, and we've almost reached the the pass where they will go through the mountains, and we will continue South.
Steve and the kids will be sad to part ways with Joshua and his tribe. They've all managed to make good friends, and are not looking forward to saying goodbye. As for me, I've spent most of the last week in the back of our wagon sick as can be.
What I thought was a bad case of allergies- everyone was suffering from sniffling- quickly showed it's true colors, sapping me of my strength and rendering me completely useless. I barely had enough energy to crochet. And to make matters worse, it was the hottest week since last fall! Running a fever in hot weather is no fun at all!
I'm finally feeling on the mend, though, and can move about again. It will take me a bit longer to come all the way right, though. I hate feeling so useless!
Steve and the kids will be sad to part ways with Joshua and his tribe. They've all managed to make good friends, and are not looking forward to saying goodbye. As for me, I've spent most of the last week in the back of our wagon sick as can be.
What I thought was a bad case of allergies- everyone was suffering from sniffling- quickly showed it's true colors, sapping me of my strength and rendering me completely useless. I barely had enough energy to crochet. And to make matters worse, it was the hottest week since last fall! Running a fever in hot weather is no fun at all!
I'm finally feeling on the mend, though, and can move about again. It will take me a bit longer to come all the way right, though. I hate feeling so useless!
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Spring Rain
We've been pushing pretty hard to get into the mountain passes. There was a flyover in the valley where the drop had been made, and we needed to put as much distance between us and the valley in case the soldiers came back. There hasn't been any movement from the air, though, so we're feeling a bit more confident that we weren't spotted.
The grueling pace took it's toll on us quickly, though. There have been quite a few disputes lately. People just seem to be on edge. Being tired and hungry isn't helping.
This morning we awoke to find that it had rained overnight, and is still misting a bit. It wouldn't be a problem, normally, however our carts are heavily loaded with the goods we scavenged from the drop and so are sinking into the ground made soft from the rain. We attempted to press on, but a close call has changed our minds.
One of the young girls was driving her cart too fast down a slippery slope. It started to slide, and she panicked; showing her inexperience. She locked the wheels up, which made the cart slide completely out of her control and tipped. Luckily, she hadn't done a very good job of hitching her horse and the animal is scared, but uninjured. As for the girl, she'll be fine, too. She has some bruising, and she's moaning like she's dying, but we're all agreed that her injuries are superficial. The cart may never be the same. She managed to snap two wheels nearly in half, and the framework is warped. With all the goods we're moving, though, we can't afford to leave it behind.
At least we're getting a day of rest from this. Time to marvel at the signs of Spring. One of my favorite are the return of so many birds! Their happy songs make even this cold, grey, drizzly day seem magical.
The grueling pace took it's toll on us quickly, though. There have been quite a few disputes lately. People just seem to be on edge. Being tired and hungry isn't helping.
This morning we awoke to find that it had rained overnight, and is still misting a bit. It wouldn't be a problem, normally, however our carts are heavily loaded with the goods we scavenged from the drop and so are sinking into the ground made soft from the rain. We attempted to press on, but a close call has changed our minds.
One of the young girls was driving her cart too fast down a slippery slope. It started to slide, and she panicked; showing her inexperience. She locked the wheels up, which made the cart slide completely out of her control and tipped. Luckily, she hadn't done a very good job of hitching her horse and the animal is scared, but uninjured. As for the girl, she'll be fine, too. She has some bruising, and she's moaning like she's dying, but we're all agreed that her injuries are superficial. The cart may never be the same. She managed to snap two wheels nearly in half, and the framework is warped. With all the goods we're moving, though, we can't afford to leave it behind.
At least we're getting a day of rest from this. Time to marvel at the signs of Spring. One of my favorite are the return of so many birds! Their happy songs make even this cold, grey, drizzly day seem magical.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Feeling the strain
Steve decided he wanted a day of his own. You know, to tell his side of the story. Personally I thought I was doing him a great justice leaving out all of his whinging about fixing things being stuffed up and the kids...
So I stayed away from DOTTY to allow him sufficient time to put his thoughts here. I don't know what he did with his time, but he certainly didn't use it to share his thoughts here. Meh.
We were planning on moving on today, but everyone is feeling the effects of dust and whatever else was contained in the transport. We've decided, unanimously, to take one more day to attempt to shake off the congestion and exhaustion that's plagued everyone for the past 3 days. We're cutting it close; it's only a matter of time before a city patrol happens across the dump site. We're betting that they have more important matters, though. They'll need a full force to battle the Southern township.
So I stayed away from DOTTY to allow him sufficient time to put his thoughts here. I don't know what he did with his time, but he certainly didn't use it to share his thoughts here. Meh.
We were planning on moving on today, but everyone is feeling the effects of dust and whatever else was contained in the transport. We've decided, unanimously, to take one more day to attempt to shake off the congestion and exhaustion that's plagued everyone for the past 3 days. We're cutting it close; it's only a matter of time before a city patrol happens across the dump site. We're betting that they have more important matters, though. They'll need a full force to battle the Southern township.
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Stuff!
Despite much discussion, crying, begging, and threats, Steve held firm that we were changing our course of direction. And although his reasoning is sound, and if I weren't so swayed by emotions I would agree with him in full, it still hurts to be leaving my family to the wolves.
Not that I could do anything about it.
And if we continued due south, we'd be walking right into the soldier's and almost certain death and/or slavery. So we'll be traveling east with Joshua's tribe until we reach the foot of the eastern hills. There we will part company, and while they continue east, we will wind our way south through the valleys to arrive at the south easterly side of the township. Hopefully we'll find it in tact, and will have been able to skirt the main front of the potential fighting.
Unfortunately, it will put us several more days behind the soldiers. I was eager to be on our way. Even I couldn't pass up the opportunity to pick up free supplies, though!
When we told Joshua of our plan to join his tribe until we reached the foothills, he begrudgingly told us of why they had made camp in the valley in the first place- there was to be an interception drop.
Occasionally, the Skyrates will intercept a supply train to the cities. They, of course, get first pick of the containers, but then they will drop the rest in a valley for the Neobedouins to have a go at. It's first come, first serve, so when a tribe learns of a drop they keep it close to their vest like the most precious of secrets. There's a lot of potential profit to be made.
This was no exception. We are very lucky to have happened across the valley when we did. We agreed to let Joshua's people have first pick, but luckily this was one of the biggest drops I've ever seen! We're struggling to get everything onto the wagons.
In the excitement of so many riches, I somehow cut my foot. It's not too bad, but it hurts and is slowing me down significantly. I think that's the worst of it at the moment- I have to move so much slower than I would prefer. I'm positive that it won't take long to heal, however. It takes more than a little blood to keep me out!
We'll be here at least another day sorting out how to travel with our new found riches before starting out once again. I must admit, with the warm Spring air, sun hot on my skin, new treasures to discover, and wine (oh yes, there was plenty of wine in the drop!), I am feeling that all will somehow be right. I'm content.
Not that I could do anything about it.
And if we continued due south, we'd be walking right into the soldier's and almost certain death and/or slavery. So we'll be traveling east with Joshua's tribe until we reach the foot of the eastern hills. There we will part company, and while they continue east, we will wind our way south through the valleys to arrive at the south easterly side of the township. Hopefully we'll find it in tact, and will have been able to skirt the main front of the potential fighting.
Unfortunately, it will put us several more days behind the soldiers. I was eager to be on our way. Even I couldn't pass up the opportunity to pick up free supplies, though!
When we told Joshua of our plan to join his tribe until we reached the foothills, he begrudgingly told us of why they had made camp in the valley in the first place- there was to be an interception drop.
Occasionally, the Skyrates will intercept a supply train to the cities. They, of course, get first pick of the containers, but then they will drop the rest in a valley for the Neobedouins to have a go at. It's first come, first serve, so when a tribe learns of a drop they keep it close to their vest like the most precious of secrets. There's a lot of potential profit to be made.
This was no exception. We are very lucky to have happened across the valley when we did. We agreed to let Joshua's people have first pick, but luckily this was one of the biggest drops I've ever seen! We're struggling to get everything onto the wagons.
In the excitement of so many riches, I somehow cut my foot. It's not too bad, but it hurts and is slowing me down significantly. I think that's the worst of it at the moment- I have to move so much slower than I would prefer. I'm positive that it won't take long to heal, however. It takes more than a little blood to keep me out!
We'll be here at least another day sorting out how to travel with our new found riches before starting out once again. I must admit, with the warm Spring air, sun hot on my skin, new treasures to discover, and wine (oh yes, there was plenty of wine in the drop!), I am feeling that all will somehow be right. I'm content.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Interesting turn of events
It's amazing how much quicker going down a mountain is compared to going up one. We arrived at the valley camp yesterday afternoon in time for a late afternoon meal and a rest in the warm sunshine. It may have been a rare rest if what the other travelers say is true.
They're heading south east to avoid what they believe is a large contingent of soldiers heading towards the larger known townships- like the one my family lives in. The rumor is that the city to the north of our current position had an uprising. The peasants were starving to death, even worse than usual since the air pirates have doubled in number and their attacks on the cities supply chains have increased. This means that the city leaders are taking even more away from their lower classes, where even less is available than usual. Eventually something has to give.
Unfortunately for the lower classes of the cities, they don't seem to have much in the way of education or strategy planning. They always seem to wait to revolt until they're on the edge of death already and easy to disperse. The rumor circulating now, though, is truly disturbing. The city is one of the largest around, and so has quite a large population of peasants. Numbers equal power- of a sort. The other side of the coin is that the General of the city is a cruel, horrible man. Rather than simply dispersing the crowd of hungry people, maybe giving them a penance to satisfy their empty bellies, he killed them! Each and every one.
Now, the city has no working class to serve the leaders. The soldiers have been sent out to the known townships to capture as many travelers as they can to replenish the lower classes. Easier said than done, though, as we won't submit to being slaves easily.
I'm filled with worry for my family. Whereas it's true that the township has some amazing defenses, it's still vulnerable to attack. Most of the people that live in the townships are young families and the elderly. It's where I was raised, though. Even though I can't imagine settling into that sort of life again, I still think of it as home. It's a concept that Steve can't seem to grasp. His family was always on the move; one of the ones I used to envy as a child.
Luckily, the township is home to a large port for the air pirates, Skyrates as they've begun to call themselves. They help to strengthen the town's defenses, and they'll fight if need be. I can only hope there's enough willing to fight to overwhelm the soldiers that are marching south even now!
Steve and I are now faced with a difficult decision: continue south, or change course. We cannot fight in a battle, and would be more hindrance than help in the great scheme of things. But then I will be sick with worry for my family until I know what's become of them. We are still several days travel away from the the township, at least 2 days behind the soldiers if the rumors are true. Steve's tried to find the documents on the machine to show what is happening, but the security is tight; we're blind to their plans.
They're heading south east to avoid what they believe is a large contingent of soldiers heading towards the larger known townships- like the one my family lives in. The rumor is that the city to the north of our current position had an uprising. The peasants were starving to death, even worse than usual since the air pirates have doubled in number and their attacks on the cities supply chains have increased. This means that the city leaders are taking even more away from their lower classes, where even less is available than usual. Eventually something has to give.
Unfortunately for the lower classes of the cities, they don't seem to have much in the way of education or strategy planning. They always seem to wait to revolt until they're on the edge of death already and easy to disperse. The rumor circulating now, though, is truly disturbing. The city is one of the largest around, and so has quite a large population of peasants. Numbers equal power- of a sort. The other side of the coin is that the General of the city is a cruel, horrible man. Rather than simply dispersing the crowd of hungry people, maybe giving them a penance to satisfy their empty bellies, he killed them! Each and every one.
Now, the city has no working class to serve the leaders. The soldiers have been sent out to the known townships to capture as many travelers as they can to replenish the lower classes. Easier said than done, though, as we won't submit to being slaves easily.
I'm filled with worry for my family. Whereas it's true that the township has some amazing defenses, it's still vulnerable to attack. Most of the people that live in the townships are young families and the elderly. It's where I was raised, though. Even though I can't imagine settling into that sort of life again, I still think of it as home. It's a concept that Steve can't seem to grasp. His family was always on the move; one of the ones I used to envy as a child.
Luckily, the township is home to a large port for the air pirates, Skyrates as they've begun to call themselves. They help to strengthen the town's defenses, and they'll fight if need be. I can only hope there's enough willing to fight to overwhelm the soldiers that are marching south even now!
Steve and I are now faced with a difficult decision: continue south, or change course. We cannot fight in a battle, and would be more hindrance than help in the great scheme of things. But then I will be sick with worry for my family until I know what's become of them. We are still several days travel away from the the township, at least 2 days behind the soldiers if the rumors are true. Steve's tried to find the documents on the machine to show what is happening, but the security is tight; we're blind to their plans.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Rough night
We made it to the top of the hill and found a suitable place to camp the night just as dusk fell yesterday evening. As we began to prepare the evening meal, Lola suddenly announced she could see orange glowing spots in the valley below us. Sure enough, camp fires! Unfortunately, it was already too dark to make out if they were fellow travelers or soldiers, so we had to play it safe. No fire.
We hurried through our cold meal, then all piled into one bed with all the bed clothes. Even though the weather is definitely warming up, the nights are still a bit cold. Especially out top of a hill with no fire to chase the chill away.
There are times we envy the children's ability to sleep no matter what is going on. Steve and I both had extremely broken sleep; waking up to every sound or sense of movement. We both had time away from the warmth of our bed to check on the camp fires below and satisfy ourselves that no one had spotted us.
I was not looking forward to going back down the mountain we'd just scaled to take the long way around a troop of soldiers!
This morning, Steve and I dragged ourselves away from the covers at first light, ready to pack up and head away from the potential threat. Honestly, I could have stayed in bed, it's not like my eyesight is good enough to see anything!
We let out a sigh of relief and instantly set about making a fire to cook the morning meal on. The wagons and carts were a sure sign of fellow travelers. Thank the Mother!
We're about to set off again, making our way down the hill towards the camp. It will be nice to talk to others and get some news of what's happening in the area. And after last night, Steve and I will certainly be needing a rest!
We hurried through our cold meal, then all piled into one bed with all the bed clothes. Even though the weather is definitely warming up, the nights are still a bit cold. Especially out top of a hill with no fire to chase the chill away.
There are times we envy the children's ability to sleep no matter what is going on. Steve and I both had extremely broken sleep; waking up to every sound or sense of movement. We both had time away from the warmth of our bed to check on the camp fires below and satisfy ourselves that no one had spotted us.
I was not looking forward to going back down the mountain we'd just scaled to take the long way around a troop of soldiers!
This morning, Steve and I dragged ourselves away from the covers at first light, ready to pack up and head away from the potential threat. Honestly, I could have stayed in bed, it's not like my eyesight is good enough to see anything!
We let out a sigh of relief and instantly set about making a fire to cook the morning meal on. The wagons and carts were a sure sign of fellow travelers. Thank the Mother!
We're about to set off again, making our way down the hill towards the camp. It will be nice to talk to others and get some news of what's happening in the area. And after last night, Steve and I will certainly be needing a rest!
Monday, February 25, 2013
Berries!
We've stopped for a rest and our mid-day meal, with a special treat- berries! Ian found them as he was chasing a rabbit into the brush- much to our dismay, rabbit stew would taste quite good. Fresh blackberries make for a nice sweetness and help add a little interest to our meal of flat bread and hard cheese.
We should be able to make it close to the top of the hill by late afternoon. Though it is quite warm today, and this hill seems to be getting steeper with each step forward. I will be happy to put it behind us.
We should be able to make it close to the top of the hill by late afternoon. Though it is quite warm today, and this hill seems to be getting steeper with each step forward. I will be happy to put it behind us.
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