34th of Vhalar 721
A rush of exuberant energy poured through Zemos' mind as he stood at the threshold between the relatively barren hills and plains east of the Scaltoth, and the Jungle itself. The balmy atmosphere of the large rainforest was a stark contrast to the cooling weather of early Vhalar on the rest of the island. Zemos wanted to explore those green depths, beneath the mossy canopy, filled with life of all fascinating varieties. There were also rumors of tribesmen, some friendly, some less so.
Zemos had come as prepared as he could be expected, with a set of poor quality survival tools. Mostly flint knives, some rolled canvas to help prop up a leanto, and other assorted items. However, where his material wealth left much to be desired, he was an expert at survivalism. He'd braved the snowfields of Viden once, and was well used to travel by now. He was confident he could provide for not only himself, but a follower that he expected to arrive at any moment.
He'd advertised and called for mercenaries to join him at this very spot, and though they were taking their time in getting there, he had every confidence that someone would answer the call. Afterall, his nels, meager in amount as they might be, were as valuable as any rich man. Besides, Zemos had something that the pampered adventuresome city folk didn't. He had a head for navigating dangerous spaces, and several talents that put him a step ahead of the rest. He was sure this would be a successful expedition.
So he waited, getting slightly impatient as he buzzed and hummed under his breath. He knelt by his rucksack, checking and rechecking the equipment he'd be bringing along with him.
Flint knife, check.
Rolled sheet of canvas? Check.
Knapped stone hatchet? Check.
Map of the Scaltoth? Check!
Camping gear? Flint and Steel? Check and check.
Dormant swarm of undead rats? Check.
Medical kit? Check.
Yes, he had purchased a medicine kit, for the formulation and collection of various substances, as well as their processing. He brought it along with him, anticipating some potential need for employing his craft in the field. Plus, there was the distinct possibility that his hired protector may meet with dangers that were yet to be seen. They might run into voracious animals, or he could simply scratch his wrist upon a thorny bramble. There was no telling what they might encounter. And so Zemos felt it important to shore up his strengths with a kit that was every bit as, if not more, reliable than his own native ability.
The expedition was sponsored by a zoologist at the University, a man who studies the fauna of the island. Zemos was anxious but eager. He expected to find many specimens for collection, and would readily gather anything that remotely resembled a novel discovery.
In a few moments, he tied up his rucksack and threw it over his shoulder by the sling. That done, he tapped his foot, waiting for the man who would accompany him. He didn't consider the possibility that none would show. But if they didn't, he was prepared to make the trek by himself.
OOC
Spent 2 wp on a masterwork Map of the scaltoth.
