DARIAN TRAVELS

                    The Glorious Egeria.........

   I was in disarray, after leaving Falsworth following Lady Chiara, Sir Ming's companion, he had repudiated her by taking his slave as his companion, but in that small village in the North if I remember correctly it was called Fjilsborg, it was winter and the days we all passed together in the large hall, eating and drinking and accompanying the slaves, it was not the life I wanted, I had studied a lot in the great city of Olni as a Magistrate, Lawyer and Scribe, I suffered and as soon as the first merchant ships arrived in spring I left that village for an unknown destination, I was born in the desert I didn't like the cold and the life of the hard men of the north.

                             MARCUS BRANDON

       Naturally the first stop, the ships going down the Thassa Sea, made it to the Cos archipelago to load wine and sell the skins bought in the north, and so it was that while I was on the pier of a city called Degalbi, I met a merchant in a tavern headed to the island of Mistic Cove in the city of Egeria, he enthusiastically told me about the beauties of that city and the luck that everyone spoke our southern dialect, strangely that man had the same name as me, Darian Bonetto who made sure I was introduced to him The steward of Egeria, who was called Marcus Brandon, was a great, honorable and powerful man.

 

    I entered that city with great enthusiasm, with the hope of having a job, a house, to live happily and perhaps meet a woman at my side, we crossed the large gate and emerged in a square with many buildings on the sides and in the distance on a hill the fortress, where Brandon lived, I went up that steep road, while Bonetto remained in the square to meet the merchants, I presented myself at the guardhouse at the central door, gave them my credentials and waited sitting on a bench under a large tree for them to call me for the audience with the regent.

     Finally he received me and after the pleasantries I told him about his city, and I wrote his words below:

CITY OF EGERIA

                                        HISTORY

The city of Egeria was founded in March 2018. It was born on the island of Mystic Cove, north of Cos and south of the port of Lydius, as a trading center, kajirae training, neutral place to make agreements or resolve disputes.

The growth of the population leads the council to improve its position and so the city grows, gradually becoming larger until it becomes a real fortified city state, with its own rules and laws.

After overcoming several wars and catastrophes, today it has expanded its territory even further by moving the glorious Home Stone to the continent, to be precise along the Cartius River.

It is divided into three areas, the fortified city, the port and the forest.

CITY OF EGERIA

The city, protected by high and powerful walls, lies on the east bank of the river, towards the interior. The Cartius flows into the Vosk starting from the south, bordering the Shendi forest, moving in a northerly direction and therefore connects important economic areas, making it full of naval traffic.

Entering through the sun gate we find ourselves on the first level of the city. We find the caste headquarters of the scribes and builders, the central bank of Egeria, the Temple of the Home Stone and various commercial activities, such as the Golden Tarn and the forge. There is also the rich library of Egeria, an obligatory destination for Gor scholars and historians, eager to learn about the events of the Gorean city which they express in our language.

Going upwards we find the residential area of the high castes. Noble and elegant buildings embellished with green spaces. Going further up we find the Ubar residence and the tall cylinders that remind everyone of the greatness and history of the city.

PORT OF EGERIA

This area is the vital center of the city's social and economic life. Located on the west bank of the Cartius River, it controls naval traffic and every passage. The move of the Home Stone was decided precisely to locate it in a place capable of offering greater development possibilities and the port is its nerve centre. The toll you pay to cross the city is one of the best examples of this. The Customs is the control and supply post, as well as being the structure for collecting money from commercial ships in transit.

Businesses, such as the Bosk Tavern, the Black Pearl Inn and the Talender Tea House offer refreshment to travelers who wish to stop for a few days. The port village also offers the open market, the flower market, the brothel, the spa as well as hosting city structures such as the City Hall, the Hospital and the headquarters of the merchant 

Risultati della traduzione

Risultato di traduzione

On that side, being adjacent to the forest, there are walls and a guarded door. THE FOREST The wooded area was left to allow wild animals, panthers and travelers without permits to enter the city to have a free zone in which to do business and trade. Natural caves and rocks offer temporary shelter to those who need it without having to submit to the laws of the city. No offense will be caused to anyone who stops in the forest, but every hostile act will be repaid with the same coin. POLITICAL ORDER Ubarato is currently in force in Egeria. Nonetheless, decisions are often made collegially, through meetings at the City Hall, where all citizens have the right to speak and, if necessary, all caste leaders the right to vote. The reasons for the presence of an Ubar are to be found in the presence of enemies who have repeatedly attempted to attack the city in its previous location, as well as a constant uncertainty in the positions of head of the high castes. If these two elements were missing, the Ubar would not hesitate to hand over power to the will of the High Council of Egeria. ECONOMY At Egeria every action and transaction must be settled through correct payment (Zcs wallet). These transactions must appear in the RP report. Every citizen will have the right, if in possession of evidence, to bring non-payers to court. If they are citizens, the trial will include a fine or imprisonment. In the case of travelers not willing to accept the possible penalty, the temporary BAN based on the severity of the action. HOUSING Every resident citizen will be entitled to housing based on their position and caste. No fee will be required for first homes. For commercial activities, contracts will be stipulated with the city administration, and payments will obviously be in zcs coin. The real estate market will be open to all, but the merchant caste will have pre-emption on the purchase of properties. Resident citizens will have 50 prims available to furnish their homes. By resident citizens we mean those active in roleplay. Absence from the land for a period exceeding 30 days will result in the loss of accommodation and the return of the prims. The resident citizen will be able to give advance notice of an absence exceeding 30 days (without necessarily specifying the reasons) and in that case he will not lose either accommodation or prims. ADMINISTRATION Contracts of any nature, whether for the sale or rental of real estate, land, livestock, slaves or any other kind, will ONLY be valid if validated by the seal of the blue caste of Egeria. The city of Egeria is owed 5% of any contract by the seller and buyer in taxes. The red caste will be required to report any suspicion of wrongdoing, and the parties will be asked to show ownership documents and sales contracts. Both parties can report breaches of contract. Marcus Brandon

DARIANTRAVELS-GOREANGAZETTE

En'kara opening ceremony

The sun dipped low on the horizon as the Ubar of Genesian Port, Collin Daines, stepped forward to open the ceremony, his voice ringing out with gratitude for the gathering crowd. Alongside him stood the Lady Annike, Ubara of Genesian Port, radiating regal poise, and the blessed High Initiate of the Oasis of Two Scimitars, Tariq ibn Joshao al Samini, his presence commanding respect. The air buzzed with anticipation as the audience, representing peoples from across Gor, settled into the wooden seating area encircling the stage.

Before the solemn sacrifice, the Ubar spoke solemn words, invoking the spirit of En'kara and emphasizing the fair's ethos of peace and unity. He stated, "As you know the fair is one of peace. There is no combat here except in this arena,  and no one should be enslaved. ... It is a time to celebrate and come together. ... Despite any differences we might have."

With reverence, he passed the ceremony to the High Initiate, who raised his arms towards the Sardar peaks, chanting prayers to the sacred ones.

The High Initiate's address echoed through the arena, urging all present to seek purity and honor the Priest-Kings. With a ceremonial gesture, the initiate Quintius performed the ritual sacrifice, collecting the bosk's blood and liver as offerings. With bated breath, the crowd awaited the High Initiate's pronouncement of the omens, greeted with relief as he declared them favorable.

"Ta Sardar Gor!" echoed the crowd in unison, a chorus of gratitude to the Priest-Kings. As the carcass was dissected and distributed to feed the hungry, the High Initiate bestowed blessings upon the assembly, invoking the protection and guidance of the Priest-Kings.

As the ceremony concluded, a sense of unity and purpose filled the air, binding the community in shared reverence and celebration. In the fading light, the legacy of the Sardar Fairs lived on, a statement to the enduring spirit of Gor.

by Alika

a humble scribe.

DARIAN TRAVELS

 Alika's letters to Darian.

Chapter Two - Journey through the Northern Forest.

There was a stillness amongst the caravan, save for the air rustling through the leaves on the trees bordering the lane. One or two of the handlers could be heard quietly discussing something between themselves as they sat on the wagon in front. Instinctively the bosk, shifted in their harnesses in anticipation. Some of the handlers moved amongst the bosk, checking harnesses, and ensuring that everything was securely fastened for the journey ahead. Others were seated at the head of their wagons waiting for the signal.

At the front of the caravan, the marshal, who had previously walked the line, stood aside in the lane, observing, and checking the procession. He then raised a small horn-shaped instrument to his mouth and emitted two short but distinct blasts before retreating out of sight to his own wagon at the head of the caravan. Instantly, the bosk began to take up the slack, their handlers in front urging them on with cries of encouragement to pull the heavy wagons into motion. Amidst the cacophony, the sounds of creaking wagons and the jangle of metal workings binding leather harnesses added to the sounds.

In a sudden jolt, our own wagon lurched forward into motion and Cyrus added encouragement as he joined the chorus coaxing the beasts onward. Gradually, the wagons began to move forward, albeit slowly. Soon, the caravan settled into a leisurely but steady pace, easily matched for a man on foot, barely faster than brisk walking and the cries of the handlers faded away.

We were not on the coastal road for long before the caravan turned off to the right onto a narrow trail that disappeared into the depths of the forest.

Soon towering Tur trees on either side loomed overhead, their ancient branches stretching towards the sky and casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. The air was thick with the scent of earth and tree scents, and a closed dense ambiance enveloped us as we delved deeper into the forest.

Amidst the tall trees, the woods teemed with life. Dense ferns carpeted the undergrowth. Hermit birds tapped rhythmically upon tree trunks, their pattering beats echoing through the dense foliage. Leaves rustled in the gentle breeze high in the canopy, and distant cries and calls of wild creatures added to the symphony of sounds that surrounded us.

As we rode on, Cyrus began sharing his wisdom and insights about navigating the forest, commenting about the creatures responsible for the sounds we heard. With each passing moment, I found myself growing more captivated by his knowledge and expertise, realizing there was much to learn from this seasoned traveller.

Soon, Cyrus began to share his personal history with us. He spoke of his humble beginnings as a peasant farmer, much like Elisha or myself, toiling under the sun and tending to the land with his own hands. However, Cyrus's fortunes changed when he seized an opportunity to assist the merchants who travelled the road between Helmutsport and Kassau.

He had carved out a niche for himself in the world of trade, working for a local merchant, developing an innate understanding of commerce. With each journey he undertook alongside the merchants, Cyrus gained experience of the trade routes, and he prospered, eventually earning enough to acquire his own wagon. In time, he finally achieved his goal of independence, branching out on his own and establishing himself as a respected merchant in his own right. As Cyrus shared his story with us, I couldn't help but admire this gentle older man who had through the trials and tribulations of his past, gained success and prosperity, inspiring me to continue pushing forward on my own path, no matter the obstacles that lay ahead.

 

We continued along the forest path for the remainder of the day and as the sun dipped below the tree line, casting a golden hue over the forest, we finally reached the southern side of the great forest. The fading light prompted the handlers to draw the wagons into a protective circle, a makeshift barrier against the unknown dangers that lurked within the forest.

Around us, a camp sprang to life. Some of the merchants erected small lean-to tents against their wagons, providing shelter for the night, while others busied themselves with building a campfire in the centre of the circle. The aroma of cooking soon filled the air, as I helped with the preparation. We made pan bread and a hearty meal of tarsk stew served with warm paga.

As I settled into the comfort of the camp upon my bedroll, I found myself reflecting on the day's journey and the valuable insight I had learned from Cyrus. His words of wisdom echoed in my mind, reminding me of the need to recharge and regroup before facing the challenges of the road ahead.

Amidst the gentle murmur of conversation and the crackling of the fire, I felt the weight of exhaustion begin to tug at my eyelids. Yet, as sleep beckoned, I observed Elisha taking out a large gem-like crystal covered with a cloth and showing it to Cyrus. The two of them engaged in animated discussion, their voices hushed as they pondered its significance before sleep devoured me.

 

With the dawn of a new day, the caravan stirred to life once more, resuming its journey along the path of the Laurius River. As we travelled beside the gentle flow of water, the landscape unfolded before us in a panorama of natural beauty. Rolling hills stretched out into the distance, adorned with lush meadows and colourful wildflowers swaying in the breeze. The soothing sound of flowing water provided a comforting backdrop to our journey, offering a sense of tranquillity amidst the bustle of travel.

Our trail followed the meandering course of the river, tall grasses swayed in the breeze, wildflowers dotted the banks, and the horizon broken by the occasional ka-la-na tree. Eventually, we arrived at the ford—a shallow crossing where the river's waters flowed lazily across the path. With careful precision, the caravan navigated the ford, the bosk stepping cautiously through the shallows as we crossed to the other side. In the distance lay the city of Piedmont nestling among gentle slopes.

As we arrived in Piedmont, it was time to bid farewell to Cyrus as he prepared to enter the city to deliver his cargo. With heartfelt gratitude, we expressed our appreciation for his guidance and companionship during the first leg of our journey. His wisdom and camaraderie had been invaluable, and we knew we would miss his presence on the road ahead.

With our goodbyes said, Elisha and I set out to find passage onward towards Sardar. The bustling streets of Piedmont beckoned, promising new adventures and challenges on the road ahead. Yet, as we made our way through the city, my thoughts returned to the gemstone that Elisha carried. I couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity, eager to learn more about its origins and significance. In our travels to come, I would uncover more about this mysterious gem.

 DARIAN TRAVELS

The journey was very long for many Goreans who arrived again this year at the EN-KARA fair, also known as the Gorean new year, which coincides with the spring of planet earth, but in Gor it takes on a particular character, for those from the North it represents the end of the long winter closed in the large hall, surrounded by deep snow, for the people of the South, it is the beginning of trade and the resumption of life, the ships already ready at the docks to sail the great Sea of Thassa, those towards the archipelago of Cos to load the tasty wine, some towards the north bringing spices salt and articles for survival, and load furs that in torwsland they have tanned ready for sale, others will go up the great river Wosk, some arrive at the great city of Olni , others go beyond the Thentis river to the city, or arrive at the beautiful city of Sais, while there are those who do their business in the desert Oases, sometimes starting from Brundisium up to the large city of AR, or from Shendi up to to the Cartassa oasis or even further away to the Oasis of the two scimitars,

  

    The salt trade resumes sometimes from Klima to the coast to continue towards Port Kar, and up the Thassa to the villages of Finnur, Windermeer, Fjilsbork, Hammersgaard, Jasime, some go towards the lost city in the rock of Skuold.

    All the cities and villages have their tent at the fair, while the merchants or perfumers like Sabayna and lady Mae have some stalls with their very fragrant products. As every year, I am present with the sales point of the newspaper La Gazetta di Gor, lately I published articles by Alika, a good, very intelligent and well-prepared Farmer, with her article on the road to the Sardar, she was able to interpret the moment of the journey and the aggregation of peoples well, in the fair there are no North-South divisions but I want everyone to be know and have contacts with other cities to stipulate trade alliances,

 

   I hope that this year too everything goes well and that the turnout is large, I have already seen many people on the road to the fair in caravans or camped out waiting for the inauguration which will take place in a few minutes.

      Thank you all for picking up a copy of the paper...

 
 

DARIAN TRAVELS.

"Alika's journal - letters to Darian"



Chapter 1: The Departure - Road to Sardar

As the first light of dawn painted the eastern sky in hues of pink and gold and long shadows cast about the yard, I locked and barred my front door. For a moment I stood back to say farewell and give blessings of safe keeping to my lovely farmhouse for the few days that I will be away. I wasn't worried though. Elisha's father has said that he would keep an eye on the place while we were gone. It was also wonderful to share this journey with Elisha, who when I mentioned a few weeks ago now of my desire to visit the fairs once more, was all too keen to make the trip for himself. So why not share the journey together? Also I knew it would be a lot safer than going it alone.
Now, at one the outer edges of Helmutsport, with pack on my back and staff in my hand, I stepped into the lane, straightened my garments and begin walking to our rendezvous where the lane forks and the merchants muster, between the road into Helmutsport and the coastal track towards Kassau, to meet with Elisha.

Both of us have been to Sardar before although on separate occasions. The journey is not without it's dangers. Between Helmutsport on the Thassa and Sardar nestled at the foot of the Sardar mountains can pose a challenge. The safest path has always been to sail down the coast to the coast town of Cardonicus that serves as the trading hub for nearby Piedmont and from there along a well trodden path towards Tharna, past Besnit and into Sardar. Going by ship around the coast costs money that neither of us could ill-afford. Also, it puts another two days on the journey time.

There is however, a more direct route through the great northern forest. It has always been there, perhaps created years ago for merchants to serve the coastal settlements around Kassau and Helmutsport. It can be hazardous to those making the journey without protection as the great forest is the home of the Red Savages and wild forest girl tribes as well a numerous animal predators that roam within the woods. So, the path was cut through the forest for the briefest of distance where upon it meets with the river Laurius close to the city of Piedmont. The route follows the path of the Laurius until it can be forded and then joins the main merchant route from Cardonicus to Sardar.

It was Elisha's suggestion to tag along with a merchant caravan. He knew of merchants that make the journey to Piedmont. Passing through the forest as part of group that would certainly take away the dangers and would deter all but most foolhardy of aggressors. We also believed that from Piedmont we could secure passage as there would be many now heading towards Sardar for the fair. He said he would ask around the merchants in Helmutsport as to who were planning to take the forest road.

As I continued along the lane towards Helmutsport blissfully recounting the discussions of the past few days, Elisha had quietly caught up with me and has almost reached me unnoticed before I was aware of him.
"Tal, Alika!" He called out, his greeting sharply pulled my focus back into the moment. Pausing to look back, I waited for him to come closer.

Before me stood, a childhood friend and neighbour, his familiar presence, his warm smile, we paused a moment taking in each other's travelling garb, dressed as we were for the journey ahead.

"Tal Elisha." I responded mutually. "Were you successful in securing passage with any of the merchants going through the forest?" I asked.

"Indeed I was," he said with a gleeful smile. "We can travel with Cyrus. He welcomed my request and said we could be useful to him with a few tasks along the way." He added.
As Elisha spoke, I couldn't but help notice that attached to his backpack amongst other items was his long bow, that was strapped vertically to it and stood proudly, over his shoulder. I found this most reassuring. A long bow in the hands of a peasant is a formidable weapon, good for defence against adversaries as it is for hunting.
"I agreed to offer my bow in protection, and you may help out too." He went on. "His wife isn't coming along with him and the opportunity to avoid having to take care of everything was too good for him to pass over."

For my part, I was glad not to have to make the journey on foot. Being able to ride was worth the effort of doing some tasks or cooking, helping out on the trip.

As Elisha and I strolled along the lane leading towards Helmutsport, we came  upon a row of six to eight wagons stationed along the side of the road, their cargo carefully secured beneath waterproof coverings. Some of the wagons were coupled together to form duplex arrangements, a testament to the efficiency of their design. Each wagon or set was hitched to sturdy bosks and there was the group of handlers and merchants moving around tending to the animals and the wagons alike.

As we approached the line of wagons, Elisha was trying to catch sight of Cyrus amidst the group of men gathered. With a shout of recognition, he hailed Cyrus, who turned towards us and gestured for us to join him. With that, Cyrus stowed away a rope he was coiling into a lidded box affixed to the side of his wagon before welcoming us into his presence.

As Elisha and Cyrus engaged in conversation about the upcoming journey, I took a moment to survey the line of wagons that comprised the caravan.
The first thing that hits you is the sweaty, musky smell of the bosk wafted about by the swish of their tails and the deep rumble murmurs was they finish feeding and await the signal to begin moving off. The creaks and groans of the harnesses in tension with the wagons. There was more than one merchant and his wagons mustered here for the journey. It was a cooperative venture. There appeared to be ten wagons in total, with two of them paired together to form a double set. Upon closer inspection, I noticed that some of the wagons also held bales of dry grass, likely intended to feed the sizable beasts tasked with pulling the caravan eastward.

The wagons themselves were a patchwork of colours, with hues of reds, browns, and greens adorning their weathered exteriors. Each wagon bore the marks of age and use, a sign of the countless journeys they had made in service of their owners' trade. Amidst the bustling, noisy activity of the merchants and handlers preparing for departure, calling out to someone to do this or to take away that. I observed one tightening the ropes that secured the coverings to the wagon, while a woman, either a slave or freewoman busied herself with emptying a wide water buckets used to water the bosks. Once drained, the bucket was secured to the wagon for the journey ahead. As I watched the scene unfold before me, I couldn't help but marvel at what I was about to participate in, each individual playing their part in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the caravan.

As Elisha approached me, he gestured for me to store my pack onto Cyrus's wagon and climb up onto the seat next to Cyrus. While I began to take off my backpack, he explained that the caravan was only waiting for a few merchants and their wagons to arrive from Kassau, and they had already been spotted coming along the road from the south.

Handing over my backpack to Elisha, I watched as he deftly stowed it away next to his own belongings, nestled between the cargo and the seat board. With a warm smile, Cyrus was already seated on the right side of the wagon as I clambered up onto the seat, followed shortly by Elisha on my left. Returning Cyrus's smile, I felt a sense of familiarity and warmth as he greeted me, "Welcome, little Mistress. You've grown since I last saw you," he remarked.

I looked at him with surprise, for I would have surely remembered such a distinctive character as him. "I used to know your father," he said, sensing my puzzlement and attempting to address it. "It was a dark and sad day, the day he died," he continued, his voice tinged with a sombre tone as memories of the past washed over him.

The wagons from Kassau had arrived and had come to a halt, beyond the wagon behind ours. One of the men who I was assuming was a marshal had walked briskly past our wagon and the next to meet the men of the Kassau wagons. After a few minutes of discussion, out of earshot, he returned calling out to the handler of each wagon to make ready to move off as he moved back up the line.

"So, you are both going to the Sardar fair!" His words, changing the subject, brought a welcome shift in the conversation.
"Yes, we thought it would be a grand adventure," Elisha replied with a grin, his eyes gleaming with excitement at the prospect of the fair.

As Cyrus settled into his seat, his gaze drifting towards the line of wagons ahead, he spoke of his own journey. "Aye, I'll be traveling only as far as Piedmont," he explained, his voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. "But the fairs, ah, they are a sight to behold. The hustle and bustle, the array of goods from far-off lands, the laughter and music filling the air—it's truly a spectacle."

Turning towards us, Cyrus's expression softened with gratitude. "I'm glad to have the company on this part of my journey," he admitted, his eyes reflecting the genuine warmth of his sentiment. "It's not often I have the pleasure of sharing the road with fellow travellers, and it makes the pasangs pass all the quicker."

As we waited for the call to move, I couldn't help but share in Cyrus's excitement. With the promise of new adventure and the camaraderie of newfound friends, the road ahead seemed filled with endless possibility.

alika co-editor

 

 

 

 (deutsch unten)

En'Kara Fair 2024 - Poetry/Short Story Contest

Terms and Conditions

* Open to all goreans, including slaves
* One entry per person (typist not character)
* Poems limited to 20 lines, short stories limited to 500 words.
* May be a rhyming poem or free verse, or short story
* Gorean Theme: Twists of Fate

Please send your entries in by: 15th, March 2024

 

 

here will be a prizes!

A public reading of the entries will take place on 20th March 2024 at 6:00 pm SLT - and don't you worry if you cannot be there for the public reading, someone will recite yours for you, just be sure to get it to us well in advance.

Sharpen up your quills and get writing!

Questions??  Contact Sometimes Mysterious OR Feather (Alarica Lutrova)

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

En'Kara Fair 2024 - Poesie-/Kurzgeschichten-Wettbewerb

Bedingungen und Konditionen

* Offen für alle Goreaner, einschließlich Sklaven
* Ein Beitrag pro Person (Schreibkraft, nicht Charakter)
* Gedichte sind auf 20 Zeilen, Kurzgeschichten auf 500 Wörter begrenzt.
* Kann ein gereimtes Gedicht, ein freier Vers oder eine Kurzgeschichte sein.
* Goreanisches Thema: Wendungen des Schicksals

Die Einsendungen sind gefälligst einzureichen bis: 15. März 2024

Es wird einen Preis geben!

Eine öffentliche Lesung der Beiträge findet am 20. März 2024 um 18:00 Uhr SLT statt - und keine Sorge, wenn ihr bei der öffentlichen Lesung nicht dabei sein könnt, wird jemand euren Beitrag für euch vortragen, ihr müsst ihn uns nur rechtzeitig schicken.

Spitzt eure Federkiele und fangt an zu schreiben!

Noch Fragen?  Wenden Sie sich manchmal an Mysterious OR Feather (Alarica Lutrova)

 

DARIANTRAVELS

​

Risultati della traduzione

Risultato di traduzioTHE PRIEST KINGS

THE PRIEST KING During my stay in Fjilsborg I had the opportunity to learn about ancient customs and traditions, there were old books in a large chest and among these I found what was the most important discovery for me. I found the story of an Ubar from the city of AR, where he wrote about the conquest of planet Earth, and I began to read: One morning in the year 3550 Gor, in the Brachland esplanade, some pilgrims passing through on their way to the Sanctuary, saw a large shining dome, some men came down from an illuminated staircase, with lights that were not fires, dressed in strange silver clothes, and strange swords in the hands, which threw small fires killing people without even getting close. The warriors were alerted, the Supreme Grand Council of Gor was urgently convened, everyone had their say, but in the end it was decided to form legions, with men from all the cities and villages, to counter this strange dome that was vomiting out people of silver, after the first assault which cost the lives of hundreds of people, the Initiates questioned themselves, even they with their wisdom could not find a way out, so they decided to question the Priest Kings, the living Gods of the planet.

  The Priest Kings that no one had ever seen in his life, called to defend the planet with all its people (they were gigantic insects who lived in the northern caves), responded to the Initiates (the Initiates are Saints who act as intermediaries between the people and the Priest Kings) who would find a solution, and so it was. They dug many tunnels all around the silver dome, creating trenches and many tunnels where the hidden warriors captured the silver men, as they fell into the traps dug by the Priest Kings, until only a few remained in the dome, and surrendered to the legions of Gor. They had an unknown dialect that the Initiates were able to translate, so it was known that they came from planet Earth beyond the Sun, that after having conquered Mars and Jupiter, the largest planets, they were preparing to conquer other planets with life forms. All foreigners were taken to the iron mines as slaves, The great council wondered what to do, both with the great dome which the earthlings said was called Spaceship, and whoever entered that dome was amazed, with the thousand lights that lit up no one knows how, there was another great council and it was decided to ask the Initiates again to study a way to use it and why not some feared the idea of conquering that Planet, the Initiates questioned the Priest Kings again, (some say that there were two of them with their mother, others say that one of the two

killed the other, remaining alone with the mother who never moved from the cave, raising only the children, but no one ever really knew how many there were or how they lived, only what is known is that they were the first to write the laws of Gor and to enforce them). The Priest Kings who had an uncommon intelligence, studied that spaceship, chose some more intelligent men, inclined to technology and taught them how to drive it and how to get to planet Earth, so it was that the legion of warriors boarded the spaceship, undertook the journey arriving on Earth killing and capturing everyone in their way, and soon the whole planet was conquered, and now it is a source of wealth, both in slave workers for the iron mines, and in the young girls who become slaves in the taverns or in the Kennels available to the Slavers, and for everything that that evolved people gives birth to on their planet Earth..............

 

 EN-KAR-NEW YEAR FAIR

 

     While I am in the oasis waiting for the day of departure for Sardasr and to participate in the new En-Kara fair or new year fair, I will be there to publicize my travel stories published in the Gorean newspaper Gazette of Gor, from a ship a messenger comes down bringing me a package from little Alika the farmer who often sends me supplies for my people, she recently tells me that she left for the nor and that she stopped in a tribe in the forest, but that immediately after writing the envelope which I will publish below in the original version, she tells me that she will leave with the caravan for Dardasr and that we will meet at the fair that will take place in the city of Teletus.

 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

 

 My dearest Darian, friend and magistrate,
I hope this scroll reaches you safe and intact, for within its folds lies news that fills my heart with excitement. In a mere fortnight's time, I shall embark upon a journey of adventure and marvel to the legendary Sardar Fair this En'kara. As you are well aware, 'tis a gathering of merchants, warriors, entertainers, and dancers from far and wide across Gor, where the air hums with the rhythm of revelry and the scent of exotic spices hangs heavy upon the breeze.

The path ahead may not be without its challenges. My route shall inevitably wind through the great northern forest that lies to the east of Helmutsport. I hope to find fellow travellers bound for the fair and join their caravan, for 'tis said that safety in numbers prevails against the Red Savages and brigands that roam the lands eastward.

But oh, how my spirit yearns for the chance to wander once more amidst the tented camps and bustling thoroughfares of Sardar, to lose myself in the spectacle of the events and the enchantment of the dancing performances. Yet amidst the revelry, I shall bring along my handpan – a musical percussion instrument that has recently captured my fancy.

I dare to dream that you, too, will make pilgrimage once more to En'kara, that our paths may cross again beneath the banners of the fair. Oh, what joy it would bring to share tales of our adventures since we last met, to revel in the warmth of companionship amidst the merry throng.

So I beseech thee, dear Darian, do not dismiss this missive as mere words upon a page, but as a heartfelt entreaty from one soul to another. Let us seize this opportunity to forge new memories and strengthen the bond of friendship between us.

Once I complete this message, I shall make my way to the heart of Helmutsport and engage the services of a traveling scribe journeying southward, who will carry with him the news of my impending adventure.

Until we meet again amidst the splendor of Sardar, may the road ahead be lined with blessings and joy, and may our friendship endure through all the trials and triumphs that lie ahead.
With fondest regards and boundless anticipation,
Alika

 THE INN ON THE PORT

    That night I didn't sleep, I was anxious, I mentally retraced my memories, I remembered an episode that happened to me on the way back from the city of Jad to my oasis.


   I had paid passage on a ship, bound for the island of Landa, not that it was who knows what, from afar it looked like a ghost ship, and the crew was made up of sailors of fortune, the best ships had been booked by all the Ubars of the large ones towns overlooking the Wosk River, my cabin was close to the captain's, usually occupied by his second mate, small and smelly, but I had to put on a good face, I had no other choice, ships headed for the South there were few of them at this time of year, all traveling upriver or across the Thassa Sea north into Torvaldsland for the fur trade.



    Suddenly shouts on the ship attracted my attention, a merchant accompanied by his slave, slipped on the slimy gangway, falling into the sea hitting his head on the railing, promptly rescued by some sailors who, unaware of the danger, dived in, there was a risk of being bitten by Urt, (large rats of Gor) they pulled the merchant out of the water but he was now lifeless, they laid him on a blanket near a large basket, while his terrified and crying slave was in despair, they took her to covered he was refreshed with a little water they gave him a dry suit and the Commander of the ship called me to decide what to do.

    I told the captain that if we had called the port guards, they would certainly have blocked the departure for who knows how long, therefore it would be better to weigh anchor as soon as possible from that port, we would have buried the merchant at sea according to the laws of seafaring, divided the her belongings among the sailors, I took the slave over to my Oasis.
    So it was, the Commander, a smart guy, immediately understood and ordered the departure, while the slave was taken to my cabin and placed in a corner on a bed made with pieces of old sails, the ship put its bow to the South, my Oasis, but we would have called at the port of Brundisum to unload goods for the city of Ar, and loaded goods from Port Kar, it was customary for ships to make these stops so that the two cities were at war with each other, but in secret they traded using the free port of Brundisum.


    We only stayed in the free port for one day and would leave the next morning, then in the late afternoon when the work on deck was completed, I took the slave with me and we went down to the mainland. the girl still dazed and crying for the loss of her master, he was certainly more than a master for her, I took her to the manager of the Kennel (city slave dormitory) to make her calm down so it was, leaving the slave who in a moment of lucidity he told me his name was Aarre, I reached the commander near the tavern which at that time of the evening was crowded with passing merchants and sailors, the landlady of the tavern was a tall, large woman and I took us to a room behind the kitchen waiting for him to arrive. freed up a table.
While I was sitting alone, the commander was outside discussing with other sailors, I noticed a very beautiful girl sitting in a corner, even though she was wearing a veil you could tell from her hair the color of the sun and from her eyes as deep as the blue sea I saw her cry , I approached her and asked why she was crying so softly, she said she was running away because she hadn't confirmed her marriage agreement at the end of the year. (in Gor the free married women must confirm the union every year by drinking a jug of wine with their partner in front of a fire), I introduced myself as the Regent of the Oasis of the Seven Palms, and that I was returning home as soon as I learned of the my caste. I begged to take her with her and take her to my Oasis, I told him yes, she told me that she would pay for the trip herself, she had some silver plates from her work as a perfumer in her city, but just at that moment some arrived noisy people approaching her, I knew they were father, mother and son, the latter husband of the free girl whom he called Azula, with a trembling voice the drunken husband who could barely stand on his legs, begged her to return, she said he would never return with him an alcoholic, who spent his days loitering in the streets, and many nights in the tavern with the slaves stealing from the perfumery case.
  As soon as I understood the situation I called the guards on duty at the port and ordered them to escort the woman to my cabin on the ship and to chase those dirty and smelly people out of the tavern. so it was that I entered the tavern called by the landlady and after eating I passed by the Inn to pick up the slave Aarre and take her with me,  but as soon as she was outside she ran away through the streets of the port, and having reached an empty pier in the blink of an eye she threw herself into the sea, drowning in that putrid and smelly water.


    This fact left me quite upset, not that the life of a slave was important, I had let the situation slip out of my hands, I hadn't fully understood that girl's drama, then once the first few minutes of sadness had passed I returned to reality, reaching freedom. in my cabin, which in the meantime had changed clothes, she was shining without a veil, truly very beautiful, certainly the rest of the journey would have been very pleasant

 

 

 

 

 

THE LEGEND OF SKOVLD

 THE GREAT AIDAN

I didn't want to believe it when I received a message from a Pirate from my great friend Jinny, I hadn't seen her since she escaped from Cartassa, to I don't know where, and now she told me that she had finally found her son Aidan; in fact it was he who found her, he had been looking for her for years.

She told me to join her on a remote island in the Thassa Sea, far to the north, in Torvsland which the maps don't mention, until then everyone knew her as the legend of the Pirate, who had accumulated riches by pocketing the bounties of wanted men around the planet , the legend that my captain often told me spoke of an island with a fortress on the hill lost in the fog and the cold of the north of Thorvsland, but no one had ever discovered it, they called it ''treasure island'' until his son the great Aidan with his ships, sailing through the thousands of islands of Thassa, managed to discover and make the island and the Rock his home and abode.

I was fascinated by this story, even as a young man when I lived in portKar I had heard about the treasure island, but no captain of the city's great fleet had ever found it, I decided to leave leaving the city of Lara, passing through Telnus in the archipelago of Cos, arriving in Hammersgaard, where I would buy food for the journey into the unknown, Jinny had sent me a map, but not a detailed one, the captain of the ship would have studied it.

We came in sight of the island, as I had said it was not mentioned in the maps, the fog enveloped it, the hills covered in snow, we docked at the port where Sir Aidan's fleet was stationed, and we prepared to go ashore, my friend Lady Jinny, was on the dock to welcome me together with her son and her slaves, I was happy to see Jinny happy and radiant again, (by now I had forgotten the wedding) she told me that she was now in charge of the merchandise, and trade, in the fortress there are no Castes and citizens are the pirate sailors of his fleet, Sir Aidan invites us into the large hall before taking us to the fortress, not in good condition, and once seated at a table and refreshed by the slaves I asked Jinny's son to tell me his story, he after after thinking about it for a while he said to me, ''yes, I'll tell you about it, but I don't think you have enough paper to write about my life''.

Giggling, he patted his slave Rare's ass, after drinking from her cup, he looked at me and said: As a child, after the fall of the first Cartassa in the desert, a slave hid me in a basket, taking me to a tribe of Kasar chariots. , they welcomed me and taught me many things about life and the earth, I was fascinated by the creation of handmade objects, the tribe taught me the art of the Torturer, and this took me traveling from city to city, until I landed in Port Kar where with my skills I became captain of a ship, with my cutthroat pirates as crew, I amassed wealth until I had nine ships in my fleet, and selling my sword and my fleet to the highest bidder, he still missed my mother , so I started touring the cities from the north and south for many years but in vain, it was then that during that search I found the treasure island, In reality it was an old fortified fortress built on the hill immersed in the fog, the sea in that stretch was always very agitated by the currents that meet between Thassa and the islands of the great North, the old Pirate had accumulated wealth with the proceeds of the bounties pocketed by capturing or killing wanted people throughout the Planet Gor.

After having renovated the island, the fortress and the port, to make it his hideout, I set off again in search of my mother who I had never forgotten, after much research I found her in an anonymous city in the south with powerful leaders of Torvsland. finally the family was reunited, while I was with her I was summoned to a small outpost in the city of Venna to extort a confession from a slave, (as you know the testimony of a slave in trials is valid only if extorted with torture, because slaves they cannot speak in the presence of freemen), then he had another job as an escort for a free woman in a village in the north, later found destroyed, from then on through the north from village to village until arriving at Thornhall, embracing the culture of the North, even though he realized that in the North they were almost all Southern men transplanted men who hated the politics and weaknesses of the South, he was looking for a place to call ''Homestone'' and I found them a bond, which took his heart and I call it ''Rare'' as rare were his qualities, now he had a home, a mother and a slave who gave him the warmth of the fire and the love of the earth. But the Pirate's island that he had always kept in his heart, Skuold's Rock was the one that he had always dreamed of living happily on his island, and creating his home there.

He took his ships and