Penny Lane

The Voyage of the Visund -85-

As the camp at Hamalbek settles down Ursula finds her time being taken by the two men still with fever. One has begun recovery but what ails the other may not be what the healers have assumed.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

85 - Camp Hamalbek

The Voyage of the Visund -84-

The surviving pirates are shipped off and the camp begins to look settled. Late afternoon, Simbran and Eriana speak to the released captives, bringing them all up to date and offering options for their futures. The condition of the sick men still worries Ursula.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

84 - The Leaders Speak

The Voyage of the Visund -83-

Ursula realizes some consequences of their situation and asks Simbran for changes. The clearing begins to evolve into a fully-fledged military camp. Then the two captive healers ask her for help with two patients with a seemingly common childhood ailment that have not responded to treatment.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

83 - Tents and Diseases

The Voyage of the Visund -82-

The Norse and Zebrins have been confronted by a local force with an officer who wants to shoot first and not bother asking questions. Eriana and Ursula do their best to pacify him but then another vessel arrives... and another, and another! The first of these newcomers is an unexpected surprise but the occupants are able to answer many questions.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

82 - Gathering at Hamalbek

Yikes! BC problems

I have noticed the site has been slow for a few days, but then I do know there's a nasty DDOS going around, it must be the change in weather.

Having just logged on, I got this:

Notice: MemcachePool::getstats(): Server 169.197.80.86 (tcp 11211, udp 0) failed with: Connection timed out (110) in require_once() (line 19 of /var/www/html/bcmain/armoire/sites/all/modules/memcache/memcache-lock.inc).

Blog About: 

Author: 

The Voyage of the Visund -81-

Ursula had previously thought that her Navy post would only begin once she arrived in Palarand. How wrong she was! With four different factions to manage plus Norse and Zebrins, wounds and other ills to attend to and near one hundred fifty mouths to feed, suddenly she is the center of attention. Unfortunately her resources are limited but she does what she can.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

81 - Director of Welfare

The Voyage of the Visund -80-

The strength of the pirates has surprised the searchers but they know there is no time to lose to prevent any further attacks. A two-pronged assault is planned but this will require Ursula to use some of her unusual talents. When the troops finally join battle with their enemy, there are some unexpected discoveries.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

80 - Combined Operations

The Voyage of the Visund -79-

The Visund searches the Faralmark bank, which is heavily covered with the same kind of vegetation they had encountered at Bakhrad. Strong indications are found before a friendly village is visited - but what they discover there makes the proposed operation more complicated - and risky.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

79 - News at Jenbek

The Voyage of the Visund -78-

The base of operations of the pirates must be found and that will mean that Eriana's scratch force must work together with those of Zebrin. The banks of the Sirrel must be searched for any sign of activity and then a plan devised to defeat them, but the Norse make other, more interesting finds as they move along.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

78 - Flotsam and Jetsam

The Voyage of the Visund -77-

The Visund departs Zebrin and heads for Bibek in Faralmark. As they navigate the twists of the Sirrel, a stranded barge becomes visible in the distance. When they reach the barge it causes them to rethink what they have been told about river pirates.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

77 - Smoke on the Water

The Voyage of the Visund -76-

Ursula makes a visit to the local market to obtain cloth, educating Zakaros in the process. Later, almost all the company travel to a nearby barracks to show off some of their fighting skills, but are hampered by afternoon storms. Graf Nuel puts in an unexpected appearance and is impressed by what he sees.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

76 - Cloth and Blades

The Voyage of the Visund -75-

Eriana's revelation has disturbed the ruler of Zebrin who alerts his forces. However, his wife is more interested in the attire of their visitors. Other visitors appear at the hostel, raising suspicions which are soon confirmed. Later, Kaldar has a request.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

75 - Conversations and Criminals

The Voyage of the Visund -74-

Eriana leads a small party to meet the ruler of Zebrin, Graf Nuel. He is anxious to hear first-hand accounts of conditions down-river and what happened to the Visund as it traveled. Her telling of their time in Pakmal causes an unexpected reaction.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

74 - Welcome to Zebrin

The Voyage of the Visund -73-

On arrival in Zebrin the reunited company heads for their allocated hostel, where Eriana hears the story of Tosh's past. It is also necessary to deal with the port official Osar, who was forced to depart Pakmal with the company.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

73 - A Kittrin's Tale

The Voyage of the Visund -72-

In the center of Pakmal city Eriana thinks she is talking to someone who can get her an audience with the Arch-Count. The reality is somewhat different, however, and it becomes necessary for the company to make a hasty yet un-noticed departure from the capital. Ursula has a suggestion for the Kittrin.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

72 - Prudent Choices

Minor name change in VotV #71

Just a note to say I changed a name in the latest Voyage of the Visund: Count Corbrian to Count Korboro.

This is my own fault for losing a piece of paper with certain names on and then forgetting what I wrote. Julia would have jumped on that immediately.

There are rough rules governing name formats along the Great Valley... rules which change as one moves along. I forgot those rules. Also, technically, to be consistent a 'C' should never be used in a name of anything - but 'ch' is fine as it represents a different sound.

As always, there are exceptions :)

Blog About: 

Author: 

Julia Phillips

I have not heard from Julia since 30th October. In her last email she said she was feeling fine and ready to get back to writing.

I only have email addresses (and BC) and have had no other contact from her. I am beginning to become concerned.

Does anyone else have any later information? We work closely together and, although I have continued posting chapters, her absence makes writing more difficult. She has edited and critiqued almost everything I have written since we first came into contact.

Penny

Blog About: 

Author: 

The Voyage of the Visund -71-

Ursula receives a surprise gift from Urjen and Abban before the two vessels depart Faralan for Pakmal City. The waterway leading to the city is neglected but navigable. Once both are moored, Eriana sets off to visit the Arch-Count, but a chance encounter promises trouble.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

71 - The Lone Stranger

Pattison in a skirt?

This surfaced today, there are articles everywhere:

Pattison in a skirt

You may consider my link frivolous but its only one of many that DDG threw up.

I'm not sure that I like this trend. OK it may be comfortable for men to wear but it blurs the lines over something most of us didn't want blurred: we'd rather just be on the other side!

Penny

Blog About: 

Author: 

The Voyage of the Visund -70-

Ursula examines Anmar's first prototype sunglasses. Eriana and Kalmenar decide to join her at the mansion to explain 'factories'. The next morning Ursula struggles with her desires, later, at the treaty signing, she realizes that an important document is missing.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

70 - Designs and Treaties

What Milsy Did -34-

After the near-disaster of the previous day, senior guildsmen arrive to investigate the steam engine and to rebuild it if possible. They are naturally surprised by Milsy's abilities as she and Senidet demonstrate what they can do.

grakh on parchment

What Milsy Did

by Penny Lane

34 - The Missing Link

The Voyage of the Visund -69-

Eriana and Ursula surface from their unexpected activity and then have to deal with the consequences. The following day Ursula visits the market on her way to see Count Darkwin and introduces a new device to Anmar - sun-glasses! At the mansion of the two Counts, further difficult questions have to be answered.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

69 - Awkward Questions

Scratch! 3 of 3 - Tricky Tuesday

The rain eases but Dennis finds out that his clothes are still not usable. After a fruitless search for something to wear, he once again becomes a Regency Miss. This time, however, he discovers the limitations of the attire of the time. Then an unexpected visitor arrives...

Scratch!

an amusement by Penny Lane

3 of 3 - Tricky Tuesday

The Genesis of Scratch!

The Genesis of Scratch!

This little amusement created itself while we were away for a few days in East Anglia. The hotel had been booked before Her Majesty died, which meant that we ended up with two days (Sunday and the Monday of the funeral) when almost nothing was open. Stuck in a hotel room with only sandwiches bought the previous day and kept chilled in the room mini-bar, the idea slowly matured...

Blog About: 

Author: 

Scratch! 2 of 3 - Bank Holiday Monday

As the rain continues Dennis finds that his options have become less and less. Time for a left-field solution, one which leaves him wondering if he is doing the right thing.

Scratch!

an amusement by Penny Lane

2 of 3 - Bank Holiday Monday

Scratch! 1 of 3 - Soggy Sunday

Dennis Moore has a skin condition which flares up on a holiday to his cousins. Away from his usual treatments alternative solutions have to be invented.

Scratch!

an amusement by Penny Lane

1 of 3 - Soggy Sunday

The Voyage of the Visund -68-

In the middle of battle Eriana has fallen and it is Ursula's task to save her if it is possible. Once the situation stabilizes tough decisions must be taken to protect those in the arena and to rescue the two Counts. Eventually the weary survivors return to their hostel where the injured must be more closely inspected.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

68 - Consequences

The Voyage of the Visund -67-

"IT'S A TRAP!" Ursula finally understands what the strange happenings around her mean. A race to warn the two Counts, and then another to get to the Shevesty field... where every man-at-arms is equipped only with a practice blade!

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

67 - Treachery in Faralan

The Voyage of the Visund -66-

Ursula goes to the market to find more suitable attire for the two Yodans and later begins to teach them the Garian numbers, revealing an unexpected talent. Meanwhile Lars attempts to find something suitable for the men to drink and takes a side trip to a brewery. There he overhears a casual conversation.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

66 - Hats and Numbers

A Winter Mission

In the Duchy of Joth, a Tenant wakes in the night... his visitor has an urgent request.

grakh on parchment

A Winter Mission

A Tale of Anmar by Penny Lane


This short story will form the prologue to 'Return to Anmar'. Planning is well under way but it may be a while before any further chapters are published.

The Voyage of the Visund -65-

Ursula has a major headache to solve as she joins the military leaders for discussions. Other questions arise as the talks continue and the presence of the housekeeper just adds to the distractions. She is relieved to escape the talks that afternoon to go and examine Count Darkwin...

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

65 - A Navy is Born


With characters and locations first revealed in Tales of Upper Fanir by Julia Phillips.

The Voyage of the Visund -64-

The company have reached Faralan. They are welcomed with open arms and a desire for the country to join the Federation. However, the recent war has made those waiting for the visitors cautious, resulting in some unexpected questions - and the visitors to raise a few of their own.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

64 - An Unexpected Welcome


Introducing characters and locations first revealed in Tales of Upper Fanir by Julia Phillips.

There must be a story in this!

I noticed this in the "Did you know" section of the Wikipedia home page this morning. (It has now disappeared. Typical. I had to look in the archives.)

...that during a renovation of 4 Park Avenue workers found a sealed room with women's clothes and shoes that was not in the building's blueprints?

This is asking for a story to be written but I have no time to do it. Any takers out there?

Blog About: 

Author: 

The Voyage of the Visund -63-

The two vessels continue on their voyage along the great river. The newest passengers learn what it takes to live on the water as they head towards Faralan. As they round the last bend an unexpected danger threatens.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

63 - Learning the Ropes

The Voyage of the Visund -62-

The two fugitives have to be smuggled out of Wadek and the Norse have unusual ideas how to handle this. Once the two vessels depart the crews settle down to the next leg of their voyage, learning more about each other as they do so.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

62 - Blood and Subterfuge

The Voyage of the Visund -61-

After lunch Ursula finishes recounting to the Old Führer what had happened on Earth since he departed. A possible way of extracting the young healer is arranged and an awkward ride back into Wadek follows. Then confusion reigns as the Commissioner asks some unexpected questions.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

61 - Unexpected Arrangements

The Voyage of the Visund -60-

Ursula and Tyra are passengers in a wagon escorted by reluctant rebels. With them is the Commissioner, who discovers that his loyalties may be displaced. When they reach the farmstead, the presence of dranakhs ensures their visit to the Old Führer goes smoothly.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

60 - Voice from the Past

The Voyage of the Visund -59-

Ursula goes to the market the following day and encounters several dranakhs on the way back. A restless nap leads her to reconsider the dangerous decision she has made. A personal talk with Eriana adjusts their plans. The following day, unexpected allies are revealed.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

59 - Second Thoughts

The Voyage of the Visund -58-

The two vessels reach Wadek and immediately there are misunderstandings. Fortunately a senior officer of the occupying forces smoothes over the problems. The women are put up in a vacated mansion and make themselves at home before Ursula goes to the market and makes contact with the next link to finding the Old Leader.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

58 - Those of Pakmal

The Voyage of the Visund -57-

A single word overheard has led Ursula to believe that another transferee arrived in Yod many years ago, possibly leading to the creation of the Ascendancy. But any new leads must be followed cautiously, since those who still support the defeated Ascendancy trust no-one. A curious deal is struck.

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

57 - The Search

The Voyage of the Visund -56-

Ursula and Tyra are in a fix and it is not certain when or how any rescue might be mounted. Down at the port, certain strange goings-on finally cause suspicions to be raised, but how are the Norse to find their companions? And what is the significance of that odd word which Ursula had overheard?

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

56 - Taken

The Voyage of the Visund -55-

What just happened? Ursula is among many who struggle to understand the events of earlier that day. At a safe fishing port the combined crews gather to try and make sense of the pirate attack. In the following days the sail is repaired and Ursula finds some of her needed herbs. Then everything changes again...

grakh on parchment

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

55 - Debriefings

Pages

Subscribe to Penny Lane