Dwarf A: -51 hp
The human jumps out from the corner and is now adjacent to you, but he did not expect you to be so close. His attack provokes an attack of opportunity from you.
Not confirmed.
Hoo boy he sure felt that!
Human A: -22
Dwarf A comes out from around the corner as well, and is behind the human with a hammer and shield drawn; his crossbow no longer on his person. He gulps down a potion and finishes his turn.
Jennings spends his turn continuing his Fascination
Kinney begins shaking, though no one can tell do to his invisibility.
Kinney unsuccessfully resists the urge to completely piss himself. Other than that, he is completely useless this turn.
Dwarf B remains Fascinated.
Human B notices his comrade's condition and swats at his arm to snap him out of it.
The dwarf does not snap out of his trance and swats back at his comrade. The human gives up on the dwarf and advances toward Jenning. He is now 10' away from the gnome.
Desperate times call for desperate measures...
Kajiiata moves his Flaming Sphere to his immediate Human assailant.
★★★Dazzle★★★
"Just DIE already, you pitiful beasts of burden!"
These cretins are proving to be far more resilient than his last battle with the rabid cannibalistic Droopies.
Casts Burning Arc on our old friend Mr Dwarf, with the secondary arc hitting the crispy Human.
★★★Dazzle★★★
★★★Dazzle★★★
(1/5 2nd Level Starsoul spells remain)
This is indeed risky, but potentially worth it!
Your rolling pet fireball crashes into the human tracker, though he anticipates it and dodges the brunt of it.
Human A a.k.a. Human Tracker: -28hp
The tracker looks pretty battered, and is struggling to maintain his composure. One thing's for sure is that he's a tough son-of-a-gun. These are no mere grunts or cannon fodder for the military; they seem highly trained.
Your shoot a spear of magical fire that strikes the dwarf, though his natural resilience and deft movements mitigated some of its damage.
Dwarf A a.k.a. Mountaineer: -46hp
The fire then arches back to the tracker, burning him black and making drop the ground. He appears dead.
Around this time, your fireball begins to set things on fire! MORE FIRE!!! WLWLWLWLWALALALALALALLALAL!!!!
The mountaineer raises his shield and charges at you.
Though his attack looked sloppy, he managed to strike you hard, breaching your enchantments.
Kajiiata: -14hp
Jenning notices your current situation and directs his attention off of the other brutish looking dwarf with the bardiche, and use his fascinate on the dwarf you are in combat with.
The dwarf who just struck you seems much more calm and is behaving as if in a daze. It is then the you realize Jenning is emitting a very strange noise from his mouth. He isn't necessarily singing, just striking a peculiar frequency.
Kinney still remains invisible. The apparent death of the tracker and the mind control of the dwarf make him feel hopeful....
Though he still might s%&% his pants. Not out of fear, but from all the things he put in his body the night before.... if ya know what I mean... though he might not.
Hoooo boy....
The dwarf with the bardiche comes to his senses and refocuses on the task at hand... DESTROYING YOU! The terrain between you and them is considered difficult, and they are moving at half-speed.
The human with the falchion finally gets out of the rubble and is in combat with Jenning.
Jenning: -9hp
Jenning tries to maintain his focus...
Hmm... what's this, eh?
Uh, who cares? You gotta heal!
Not wanting to take any chances, Kajiiata uses the best healing spell at his disposal.
Kajiiata casts Cure Moderate Wounds on himself.
(3/5 2nd Level Heavens spells remain)
Good enough, I guess. Perhaps I shouldn't be in the fray like this.
Kajiiata, decides to move five feet away from the Dwarf, a bit closer to Jenning (even if that puts him just a tad closer to the other aggressors.
I hope Kinney's ok... I had better best these knaves before they run us all through.
"Splendid! The guard can direct you to my quarters should you get lost. You'll need a night of celebration before we start really putting you to work." He gave you a friendly grin. "Congratulations again, and we'll see you, lets saaaaay, 7 o' clock? Don't bother to bring anything. Everything will be provided." He shook your hand and departed back toward some doors in a corner of the room.
Just as soon as he left, the bubbly man you saved made his way toward you. His walk was very ugly, like his body had no idea how to be in motion. he wears soft slippers that don't make a sound when he walks, and a robe made of fine decorated silks. But before he even reaches, a very attractive woman cuts him off and engages you in conversation. If there were ever someone who is exactly what you desired physically, she'd be the closest match.
"Tell me, what in the f@#@ does Third Secretary even me? It sounds like a women's job." She winks at you and gives you a sly smile. She has gumption too, it seems. A good match for your sarcastic and confident attitude.
The mountaineer tries to shake off his hypnotism.
He comes to his senses and but has spent his turn shaking off the trance.
Jenning also decided to move away from the falchion wielding human, and is now next to you but away from the building . He then casts a spell upon the dwarf with the bardiche.
He immediately drops his bardiche and rushes over to the mountaineer and begins caressing, kissing, and hugging him. He moved between both you and Kinney, so you both gain a chance to strike him.
Your dainty swipe at him makes a donk sound on his armor.... pathetic....
Jennings also delivers a pathetic, flamboyant swipe at the passing dwarf. Your swipes harmonized and it was really... funny.
The male human looks quite pissed off. He raises his falchion over his head and tries to cut Jenning in two.
Ho f@%% Oooooh my god
Jenning takes a devastating cut from the human. His injuries are very apparent.
Jenning: -32hp
Kinney has to roll a Fort save not to throw up from the side of Jenning's wounds.
Kinney has, up to this point, pissed himself, s@~@ himself, and thrown up.
"Oh gods, how cruel!"
Kajiiata decides prudence trumps honor when a situation is literally life or death.
"JT, I know you're hurt, but follow my lead! Kin my boy, head for the hills!"
Kajii makes quick gestures that may tell the boy where to go.
Well this is quite the $#%@ show. Sigh... I suppose I'm to blame... guhll.
Kajiiata casts Invisibility on himself.
(0/5 2nd level Starsoul spells remain)
This isn't the cowards way out. This is the only way out. I got nothing to prove here. Hopefully Kinney and Jenning will know what to do.
With that, Kajiiata moves out of the fray and begins heading into the thicket of the nearby woods.
The Universe was not on our side here. No, not today.
"Tell me, what in the f~#! does Third Secretary even mean? It sounds like a woman's job."
"Your guess is as good as mine, my lady," he replies with a rare, genuine smile. "They've only given me the title, unfortunately the description wasn't important enough to mention."
The trajectory of his view was beyond his consciousness; examining every curve of her tight athletic frame . Slowly shaking himself from his carnal imagination, he retries conversation.
”I’m afraid we have not been properly introduced. I am Sir Cygnus Arche, as you no doubt were already aware. Who do I have the great pleasure of meeting this most fortunate day?” the knight asks as he takes the lady’s soft hand and assigns it a simple, courteous kiss.
Apparently you asked your question too fast, as it finally struck you who this lady is. She is Countess Aubrey Dalassenos, wife to the Count Saleno Dalassenos of Dalaston, which is a large town in the mountains. It's rich iron veins feed Taldor's metallurgy needs, and thus provide Dalaston with vast amounts of wealth, though that wealth is spent elsewhere.
"Oh so courteous! You can forego formalities with me, Sir Arche. I am a friend first and a stranger second. I am the Countess Aubrey Dalassenos. From Dalaston. Our iron probably fashioned that sword of yours. And where do you hail from?"
"Oh so courteous! You can forego formalities with me, Sir Arche. I am a friend first and a stranger second."
"O! Of course, now that appearances have been sated, my Lady," he replies, boyish grin still radiating as he begrudgingly releases her hand. "I was born in Zimar and - like many of my childhood friends - felt service to the Crown's military was the only thing in the world worth pursuing. Hmpf! Here I am, boring myself with such self-indulgent prattling. Please, dear Countess, tell me what stars aligned to have graced me with your company. Surely you have something of a request for me, would you not?"
It is hard to see into the dense forest, especially with the fire creating a lot of smoke. But you had little choice, as these soldiers proved they are martially disciplined. With Jenning's wounds and your ability to effectively cast spells threatened, your options great rapidly slimmer. You called everyone to withdraw for the hills, in this case into the fiery forest to the north.
You dashed in first, hoping your friends would follow. With the one dwarf smothering the other dwarf and the man with the falchion caught off guard, your avenue of escape is made available. You all escaped. Jenning never looked back to see if they were following.
"I.... ugh... we need to get to the top... I have to see what's happened to the Gate." He struggled to speak and each step felt like two causing him to feel winded, but still keeping up.
You had climbed that hill for what felt like a long time, but in reality was probably only for 10 minutes, placing yourself much farther away from the village . At the summit, there is as opening, allowing you get a decent view of the city of Iadara.
It's hard to believe what you are seeing. The street of Iadara are riddled with marching soldiers. From what your elvish eyes can see , it is a similar bunch to the ones you just fought. In the center of the city is the Sovyrian Stone, which is what the elves use to activate the portal. Now, it is in the control of the Droskari Empire.
Also in the city center is the Gate itself. It is a large arch that bears many of the features of the ones you studied. There you see some different looking individual in robes of some kind; perhaps some religious figures. An unnatural storm begins to center on the city, turning the normally bright midday into a fiery blackened wasteland.
It's hard to discern what exactly is going on, but you see the robed dwarves make some gestures, and then another robed dwarf raises his hand into the air. It appears he's holding something, as a strange light-blue light began to radiate from his hand. Some runes on the arch began to slowly glow, but seemed to struggle to keep lit.
At that time, another robed dwarf does something the Sovyrian Stone. It's green, beautiful light began to dim, and a sinister black and ember fog began to corrupt it. Moments later, the runes illuminate to maximum brightness, creating an aurora from the activated portal.
The landscape of the other side was a treacherous one that tore with your sense of reality. The sky appeared to have some direction as the dark thick clouds form a tube, and on the horizon is the light at the end of the dusky tunnel. The land itself is insane to gaze upon. Massive veins of protruding unearthly metals breached the land like mountains. Tunnels and strange fortresses dot the landscape of this realm.
Suddenly, a massive creature steps in front of the portal. It is nearly as tall, perhaps slightly taller, than the arch, and resembles a dwarf in terms of proportions. Its skin looks like cooled magma with glowing cracks where lava appears to be flowing inside its. Its hair and beard raged with fire, and his eyes glowed to the point where it was irritating to look at them. This creature is awesome in every sense of the world, its very presence commanding the appeasement of those that gaze upon it.
The creature holds out its hand, reaching into your plane from the portal. It opened its palm toward the sky when strange lights began swirling above it. The lights began to fuse together, and soon a great structure was formed, something unlike anything you have ever seen.
It's appearance is strange but somehow made sense to your scientific mind, as if it were an answer to a question not asked yet. Its a series of prismatic colored lens, some large and some small, all connected with heavenly golden metal. A disk with an opening in the its center is suspended underneath lens, which rotate and move about on the device.
This device floated above the creatures palm and suspended itself even after the creature withdrew its hand back to its home plane. After some gestures from the robed men and some obvious satisfaction from the ranks of the soldiers, the portal closed again, and the runes gradually dimmed to nothing. The device aligns itself so the lenses and the disk are parallel with the land. It is a monstrous size, larger than the creature that manifested it . The device elevated high into the air, and began moving northward, flying over your location. The wind blew over you from its wake. Its design is truly unearthly, yet it makes so much sense.
"I....." Jenning could barely speak. "We need to get out of here. The world has changed forever today and not for the better." He pulls out his medallion with the Pathfinder Society symbol and activates it. It glowed for a second and immediately a small portal formed, leading to a circular room with a tall, open ceiling. Without much hesitation, Jenning walked through, followed by you and Kinney.
"Ah, Zimar! I've been there a number of times. You must be a cultured man, not to mention quite capable of himself. Not only have you grown up on a border town, but you also grew up in a city where the majority of the Taldan Phalanx is based. I bet you're full of tricks." She moves in slightly closer and speaks softer, "But you're right. There's always a catch, isn't there? As much as I'm enjoying our conversation, with a pleasant view I might add, your current position does have use to me. But I don't seek to make you a tool. I'm talking about a... partnership of sorts. This isn't a good place to talk about this, so..." She moves in even closer, "... I'm staying in the Westport district. At the Westside Inn and Gambling House. Do you think you could meet me there, say, midnight? If the hour is too inconvenient, then we may not be able to discuss business. My schedule is quite busy, you see. But bear this in mind. I can make your "s%$#ty" rank worth more to you. Much more." A grin curved on one side of her mouth. You couldn't take your eyes off of her as she walked away. She moved very properly, but without having to try.
After she had left to go mingle with other nobles, Hyrul Bates noticed your availability and began making his way toward you. To his disappointment, Eutropia beats him to you. He hangs his head solemnly and then looks about the room awkwardly as if waiting patiently. The princess had your attention, however. She too is great fun to look at. A strong woman, full of compassion and intellect. Her beauty is in her heart, though her physical characteristics are nothing to forget.
"Sir Arche. It's a pleasure to see you again." Your encounters with her have only been business really, and usually you were only accompanying an ambassador or some other official as they did business with the crown. It is not unknown knowledge that she wishes to inherit the kingdom, though current law prevents the daughter from doing so. She is Stavian III's only child, leaving the throne open for debate after he is gone. "I understand you've been hassled by one person after another. Don't let their desire for your company flatter you. You are only now more useful to them." She extended her hand in a proper fashion, which your natural reaction would be to kiss it. Her hands feel slightly rough, as if they are often used. "I for one would like to genuinely congratulate you. Sure, you have more abilities at your disposal, which makes you desirable to nobles and the senate, but more importantly, you have more power to see the right thing is done. I won't request anything of you. I just hope I can trust you to do what's right for Taldor in your new position." She looked a little embarrassed by what she just said, "Sorry, I... hope I didn't go off there. Taldor is in need of good people, more than ever, so it's important to me, as the princess, that I have that support."
"Oh dear. Oh no. No, no, no..."
Kajiiata shakes his head in denial of what he's witnessed.
"What da matter? I kenna see far like you do."
"Droskar..."
"...hurmm?"
"Droskar. An evil dwarven deity whose domain encompasses slavery and toil."
"His what does who?"
Kajiiata sighs in frustration. Kinney, having soiled himself in multiple fashions, grates his nerves more than usual. Perhaps seeing (and smelling) him in such a manner highlights his stupidity while diminishing his charm.
"He's a bad god. BAD. Bad god of slavery... Dwarf."
His tone is stern and impatient as he slowly sounds out the words for his simple companion.
"Oh, I get it," Kinney declares, oblivious to Kajiiata's disdain for dumbing down such elementary concepts.
"They've opened the Gate to the Infinite Abyss. Essentially one of the darkest, most vile of Hells in all the Planes... uh... I mean, uh.. big bad fire Hell. Bad fire Hell go boom?"
Why do I even bother?
The threesome witness the creation of an unknown flying device. It whooshes by them, causing Kinney to duck and cover.
"What da hell was DAT?! Some sorta flying ship? What dem wee folk up to you 'spose?"
"Well, I'm not sure... clearly the Dwarves have no qualms about using such tools for devastation. I can only assume the worst."
Before stepping into Jenning's escape portal, Kajiiata decides to tie up some loose ends.
"Jenning, you need to be healed!"
Kajiiata casts Cure Moderate Wounds on Jenning
(2/5 2nd level Heavens spells remain)
Kajiiata casts Cure Moderate Wounds on Jenning
(1/5 2nd level Heavens spells remain)
"Kin, you're filthy and you smell like a horse died in a latrine. Let me clean you up."
"Dwah? I ain't got time for no bath!"
Kajiiata casts Prestidigitation on self.
"Abra Kadabera, Hizzi Shabam. Cleaneth these garments the best you can!"
Suddenly young Kinney is clean! Well, at least his clothes are.
"Ohh??!? Wouja lookit dat?! 'tis as if I ain't never soiled myself at all it is! Ain't there nothin' you magefolk kenna do?"
"Win battles without warriors."
"... I'm staying in the Westport district. At the Westside Inn and Gambling House. Do you think you could meet me there, say, midnight? If the hour is too inconvenient, then we may not be able to discuss business. My schedule is quite busy, you see. But bear this in mind. I can make your "s!$*ty" rank worth more to you. Much more."
”I shall endeavor the proper cause of action so that I may be met with you at your convenience, my Lady,” Sir Cygnus promised with some measure of faded resolution against her charms. He then stood awestruck in the wake of her sultry departure, viewing each shift of the Countess’ muscles through a libidinously moistening eye as she took her leave.
To be met in disreputable quarters at a disreputable hour for offers of what is, no doubt, of the very same nature; and yet…
Even as he pondered his doubts, Sir Cygnus’ head frenzied over the perfume lingering behind.
”My Princess!” Caught somewhat off guard by Europita’s sudden appearance, the freshly titled knight bows deeply and eagerly gives her hand a customary kiss. ”I assure you, this pleasure is solely my own.
"I understand you've been hassled by one person after another. Don't let their desire for your company flatter you. You are only now more useful to them. I for one would like to genuinely congratulate you. Sure, you have more abilities at your disposal, which makes you desirable to nobles and the senate, but more importantly, you have more power to see the right thing is done. I won't request anything of you. I just hope I can trust you to do what's right for Taldor in your new position."
Her words carried much weight. Sir Cygnus could not help but feel a touch chastised as she spoke; as if she could read into his thought regarding the intoxicating Countess.
[b]”As always, my duty is to see that Taldor finds itself unadulterated by those who wish to see our great Country’s will bend to suit their own selfish pursuits. I am humbled by your show of thanks, my Princess, it gives me great honor to hear your council. Your forwardness is inspiring, and it is my hope that you will, someday, find reason to trust me when I tell you that I shall always do what is right for Taldor.”
The ceremony ended shortly after your discussion with Eurtopia. You had received many gifts from people, some minor, some well thought-out . The kindness of the nobles was surprising, but you could not help but think their benevolence has ulterior motives attached.
Just before you start to leave, you are once again approached by a person. A man, slightly tall and probably pushing into his late 50's. Judging from his clothes and demeanor, he is probably a castle steward of some kind.
"Sir Arche. A fine congratulations to you. I embarrassingly have no gift to part onto you. I am, however, charged with showing you to the Royal Stud Farm. Whenever you are ready, sir, we may board the carriage outside. I'll be by the door."
This district is a stark contrast to many of the other ones. Elegantly placed cobbles, intricate shrub sculptures, lush parks, and marble statues decorate the area.
The carriage takes you north, outside of Oppara. The Royal Stud Farm is not to far away.
You arrive at the stud farm. There you see a well guarded, over-sized ranch house with a stone paddock adjacent to it. Inside the paddock, you see five horses. Three are grazing while two are playing chase.
"I shall escort you inside, Sir Arche. The stud manager should be awaiting us inside."
The guards barely acknowledge you as they mind their own conversation. Once inside, you notice the outside of the ranch house is much nicer than the inside, which is full of the everyday mess that comes with a stud farm.
"Hmmm... I don't see him in here. Perhaps he's outside."
The only people inside the house are a few halflings, a dwarf, and some humans. All of them are relatively young except for the dwarf, who is about middle-aged. They appear to be the ranch hands. They shy away at your presence as their humbleness weighs on them.
Once outside, you hear a disturbing noise along with an instrument. As if some foul creature lurked in one of the stables but knew how to express itself through musci. But, just as soon as you looked, it was obviously two horses trying to get it in. The stud manager sat on a stool playing the violin for them. A strange scene indeed.
Upon seeing the absurd yet, somehow, romantic trio, Ser Cygnus stifles a smile. Likely in practice of his routine for the annual Senate orgy scheduled next month.
"Don't let my presence disturb you, citizen, it's obvious you're the midst of something greatly important."
He abruptly stops playing his violin as if startled. "Citizen!? Why, I'm no mere citizen. I am a royal servant; appointed by the Grand Prince among a plethora of other stud ranchers to see his stock is the best in the Inner Sea!" His eyes then widened as he noticed your company and also your regalia. He dropped his violin, which startled the sire , causing him to whinny and grunt while he struggled to stay mounted on the dam .
"Begging your forgiveness, sirs. I take great pride in my work, sometimes too much for my own good," he said shamefully.
Your escort, who's name is Naylen Jethro, the grand steward of the castle, seems quite fine with the offense. "Think nothing of it, Kareem Goodman. Your talent merits pride. Sir Arche meant nothing derogatory by it."
"It is I who was derogatory. Sir Arche, my humblest apologies for my outburst."
"We're all but 'royal servants' to some measure, Kareem Goodman," Sir Cygnus related smugly, "though it only services proper formalities to know your place in our hierarchy. This labyrinthine order is quite difficult to navigate, I grace you, therefore I cannot fault your ignorance and I welcome your apology with warm regards."
He motions to the horses, "It appears as though the mood has soured. Alas! I suggest you take opportunity of the moment to show me to your most prized destriers."
"You are quite humble for a knight, Sir Arche. My undying thanks for your forgiveness. Yes, lets observe my stock so you may pick an equestrian suitable to your needs. Though I must say; the best way to pick a horse is to let it choose you." You and Naylen follow Kareem to the inside of the paddock. Now all of the horses are playing chase. They all look quite healthy and happy.
"Ah. So elegant, they are. Such distinct personalities as well. I swear, my family could completely forget I even existed and I would still have a family to call my own. Don't think me attached though, sirs. Like any father to his children, he must learn to let them go, for their sake." He pulls out a strange handheld instrument and blows a rhythmic whistle with it.
They directed their chase closer to where you three are standing. Their attentions are still on each other and the tasty grass, but they stayed roughly within ten of you.
Kareem walks toward the first horse; a white one with brown spots and corn-silk colored hair. She seems like her eyes are constantly moving. "This mare is Jaundice. She's breed from horses that come from the River Kingdoms. I am not sure exactly why, sir, but locals there say their horses have excellent perception; not to mention they have stupendous memories. You may not find a more intelligent horse in this stock."
He moved to the next one. This horse is jet black and lean but with very defined muscles. "Oooh! Now he's a fun one. If you're looking for excitement and the rush of the ride, then Thundaga is for you. He's my fastest horse, and quite agile. He was breed with a colt from Varisia and what I believe to be a mare from horse lords to the east. I mean no treason saying the Qadirans know how to breed a horse."
And the next one... This horse a reddish color and looks quite thick and tough. "Ah, The Colonel. This fine specimen is pure Varisian. The harsh environment has toughened this old colt. But better yet, he's seen battle with orcs. He's the most fearless horse I own."
The next horse is champagne colored and quite pleasing to look at. You couldn't help but imagine the attention you would get strutting through the Imperial Square. "This lovely gal is Felicity. She certainly loves attention and gets plenty of it. Riding in on her is sure to make an impression on people."
He then goes to the final horse. This one seemed strange. It's unnaturally still, as if it's trying really hard to not move at all. The other horses are at least doing something, but this one, which is a handsome charcoal grey color, is steady as a stone. "This one will be hard for me to sell. Not because I don't want to, Sir Arche, but because you may not want him. He's... well, I suppose he's rather dry. Sure, he'll play once in a while and when he wants to ride he can ride just fine. In fact, riding him is quite smooth, like you're floating. He's a very careful horse, no doubt. Perhaps his personality would liven up if he were to have the right rider."
Naylan turns his attention toward you, "Well, Sir Arche, all of these horses are quite superb. You probably won't find better ones on this plane. Shall we give you time alone to think on your decision?"
The stud manager is very agreeable to that idea.
"Yes, yes. Of course. That is the proper way. You'll know which one is right for you. I shall be tending to my other horses under the outside stable, just where you sirs came out of."
After he made his way back to his stool, he picked up his violin and began playing again. This is the song he played....
Sir Cygnus gives the stable master a nod of approval but offers no praising words or unnecessary kindnesses; this was an ass he didn’t need to kiss.
Choosing a horse, Cygnus considered, was likening to choosing a mate. Individual merits of both rider and steed were of equal importance. The matter of predominate importance was their combined strength. Both creatures must be able to work in tandem, eclipse their counterpart’s weakness and, simultaneously, bolster each other’s strengths. Of course, Sir Cygnus had no weaknesses to speak of and would only be able to lift whichever of these beasts he chose to a higher standard of excellence. The knight haughtily considered this as he spent a few moments alone with each horse judging their natural chemistry. The creature which established the most congruent relationship would be his mount.
You aren't sure what, but you see something in the horse. Like you know why it does what it does. It isn't a lame horse by any means. He just is attentive his position, his posture, his placement of his hooves . You see stability in this horse. To your surprise, he tilts his head to look at you with his eye. He then moved closer a step and nudged your shoulder a inhaled a big whiff.
Naylan began to speak, "He seems to like you, Sir Arche."
Of course he does, Sir Cygnus thought to himself as he placed a hand on the horse's cheek.
"Kareem! Have this horse fitted for travel," he commanded simply. "I have made my choice."
"Yes of course, Sir Arche. You must see something in him that I don't. He's a horse from Qadira. I've always just called him 'Nimbus', for his dark rain cloud color. Ride him with grace, sir."
"Qadira!?!?" Cygnus spits into the dirt in overly dramatic fashion. "I will NOT entertain the idea of tending to a Qadiran beast." He spits again as if to somehow relay his point better.
"This stable is in service to the Grand Prince, yet you insult him by breeding animals of our nation's most deplorable enemy. Furthermore, you insult ME by not making this pseudo-treasonous fact apparent before attempting to shove him off on me! What message would you presume to be delivered when a man sees a Taldon knight atop a Qadiran horse?" Kareem opens his mouth to speak but the Judge Dredd-styled grimace Cygnus gave him was enough to set him mute.
"Which, if any, of these animals is Taldon!?"
The Kareem hears your yelling and the violin stops playing its lovely tune abruptly; emitting an ugly note at its end.
Nervously, "B b but, but Sir Arche. I have broken no law! I beg you, please. Qadiran horses are some of the finest. All horses are here are by the Grand Prince's will! I swear it! Um... ummm... well. Felicity is Taldan. Yes, please. Felicity will suit you well, I promise you. I'll even throw in a more elegant saddle to match her beauty. Just please don't throw me in the stockade!"
Sir Cygnus, still giving the poor stable master a *nerve-shattering glower*, says nothing but in one motion waves a gesture that both agreed to the prospect and sent the unmistakable message of "get the f$## out of my sight".
A summary of your day...
You strutted out of the ranch with much pride. Nothing gives you quite a rush like berating the plebeians.
The time between the ranch and the party on Senator's Hill was spent packing for the move to your new home. Your lifestyle is simple enough, which made packing quite easy.
It would be 7 o' clock soon. You head to the party, still wearing your uniform. Senator's Hill is where the senators live . Some have villas, some have mansions, or even really nice apartments. You were heading toward Melvin's villa, which looked to have spared no expense when it came to aesthetics.
You handed Felicity to the valet. Once inside, you were astounded by the decor. Opulent is the word here. Aside from the extravagance, the party was quite "liberal". Many people wore masks. Some people walked around the party without clothing, as if it were as normal as the morning dew. You witnessed many people engaging in illegal drugs, even ones from Qadira, such as pesh, or even flayleaf. The class hierarchy in Taldor was always distinct, but this party revealed to you just how severe the contrast really is. There is a large underclass functioning within Taldor's laws that do all the dirty work and have less fun, and then there is a small super-class reveling in a world above the laws, where their desires are limitless.
Melvin caught your attention and began introducing you to a lot of the guest. He seemed to really be enjoying himself, though despite whatever intoxicants or hallucinogens he was on, he seemed very composed and clear spoken. After a short-while, he took you off to a remote corner in a large living room where some other gentlemen, both bearded, were sitting. Both were smoking cigars and drinking a liquor of some sort. They both were accompanied by young girls sitting on their laps.
Your conversation between the four of you, six including the girls, was very stimulating. These are very intelligent people. You never realized just how much power the senate had until then. They essentially run the nation. The Grand Prince is to involved with his own hedonism to care for the realm. So the senate slowly siphoned control. This is not uncommon knowledge. None would dare offend the Grand Prince, but it is accepted that the people who actually manage Taldor is the senate.
The conversation went to many places. Eventually they got onto the subject of your first assignment. They have decided your position would best be served as a field agent to the kingdom of Taldor. To do this, they would have you join the Pathfinder Society. Melvin field commissioned you right then and there, as if it were nothing. He is a member as well. Apparently it is not unheard of for a nation to enlist their own agents within the Pathfinder Society, taking advantage of their information and their network for the betterment of their country. The Pathfinder Society is ubiquitous, and because of its amorphousness, it has less limitations. You are to keep your current service to Taldor a secret. You set out for Absalom tomorrow.
Melvin was charismatic in his reasoning for keeping Taldor the way it is. Or rather keeping its hierarchy the way it is. He would, however, like to see some major changes, such as improving foreign relations while trying to still expand its borders and reclaim lost territories. He emphasizes how wars should be fought economically and psychologically. Precision war-fare. The other way is too costly and "primitive" as he'd say. For being a half-elf, he is awfully passionate about a human dominated nation.
There was no argument. You accepted your mission like the good loyalist that you are. They definitely strayed you away from your typical duties as an emissary and have essentially made you a covert field operative for the kingdom of Taldor.
However you decide to spend your time at Melvin's villa is up to you. He made you feel like you were the guest of honor, but few people congratulated you. Midnight was approaching, and you needed to leave now in order to make it to the Westport in time to meet Countess Delassenos.
Your meeting with the countess was less strange. This one on one contact was more your style, not to mention she treated you all night to drinks and "blessed" your cards for you at the game tables. Eventually she would get down to business. She wanted to see drastic change in the face of Taldor. She saw opportunity with the chaos the Droskari Empire is causing. Though she never completely eluded to what she wanted you to do exactly, her wording was carefully chosen. She wanted you to "make room" in the senate, as well as "switch out" some foreign political figures. It was strange how she somehow knew about your being field commissioned in the Pathfinder Society. She definitely has a knack for gathering information. Like Melvin, she mentioned she would find ways to contact you with special information or essential tasks that need to be completed. She wishes to see Taldor's glory revived with new players, stating the current ones prevent it from growing to the power it can become.
The night ended with her asking you to bed. It was an obvious outcome to the night, as your chemistry with her is quite natural and caused each other's hormones to rage. However, it is up to you whether you chose to or not.
The next morning, you and Felicity boarded a ship to Absalom. The city at the center of the world is an amazing place. It is a conglomerate of culture and economy, which are things you must encounter often in your usual work.
On the boat, you heard some people talking. Other passengers, from what you gathered they are refugees from the north. Both of them elves. You hear them speaking to other passengers frantically about the Ashen Legion attacking Iadara. Looks like Tolhrik has made his move.
Cygnus had much to consider during his travels. His titles, arbitrary as they were, had given him some sort of value to the many parties playing for control of Taldor. His Princess had been right on that count, not that he doubted her on that, only he couldn’t believe how quickly he was swept into the folds of conspiracy. So many people vowing that their intentions were purely for the benefit of their country seemed too admirable to be true. It would take careful work to distinguish the purity behind each of his benefactors. While Melvin and Countess Dalassenos had not made any remarks that were particularly treasonous, neither ever acknowledged Grand Prince Stevian’s role in their government. This general disregard was received by unsettling contemplations by the knight.
Although the matters at court were as dangerous as they were intriguing, Sir Cygnus could not suppress his thoughts of the Countess. They had made ample use of his new apartment, soiling all three pieces of furniture he owned and leaving the place in a shambled, sticky, stinky mess. More pressing, still, was her husband, the Count of Dalaston, Saleno Dalassenos. What if he was suspect of his wife’s loyalties? Had they been spied upon? Followed? By his honor, he could not compromise her but this was Oppara; a place where honor can be weighed in gold.
I am no longer in Oppara. My mistress is likely better informed than the Prince. I should have nothing to worry for until my return, he resolved smugly. Better to fix my focus on the task at hand as I have not nearly enough information on my benefactors to compose either suspicion or trust. As of now, my sword and my life are guaranteed to Taldor. That is perfectly sufficient.
You spent your day performing chores you would have never considered doing before. Well, on the ship you certainly did your fair share of labor, but in this setting, it was unheard of. You stole the book already, so the rest of your day was wide open. The lock on the case was a joke and the guards have been trusting enough to give you privacy upon request. You almost felt guilty having done all that you have to gain access to his home. Nevertheless, the guards are chelish soldiers; the fiercest in Avistan. If you had done a traditional B&E (breaking and entering) when they have their guard up, stealing the book would have been much more difficult.
Nero would be home soon. You actually decided to prepare a meal for him yourself, despite your terrible cooking skills. The idea of cooking for someone else is very unnatural, but your conflicting heart manifested in strange behaviors.
Your pallet is cultured and experienced, no doubt. The many places you have seen as a pirate is where your education and interest in the world was forged. However, this did nothing for your skills as a cook.
You heard movement outside. Nero must have arrived back from his drills. Before he made his way inside, you made a quick recall of your escape plan.
Alright, babe. Sexy-boyfriend comes him. He strips his armor for you. Ya have a splendid meal, chat about his day like it's the only thing you care about, then, give him a good sacking. Tire that soldier out, and make way to your cache just outside the walls. The balcony is your best exit, but the guards outside could be an issue. Perhaps a distraction... well, I'll cross that bridge when I get there! Plans can't be too rigid and all. Your pack with the book is already shipped out with the daily courier. Hopefully that layman sees it arrives at the docks unmolested. Then, it's smooth sailing to Absalom, followed by a life on the run from bounty hunters and the chelish military. This plan is PERFECT! Luckily I'm never in one place for too long. Besides, I'd rather die at the glaive of a hellknight than of old age. Or preferably a duel...."
Your thoughts trailed off until Nero entered the door. You greeted him lovingly but with a slightly careless manner that you he's attracted to.
It is one of the many things you learned about Nero. Learning his wants and needs, and overall human desires, was relatively easy. His degree of emotional disturbance is well hidden by his military reserve, but when he opens up, his feelings leak like an old wine barrel. Unfortunately for you, that passion, whether angry, happy, or sad, is attractive to you. On the ship, your mates never kept anything hidden. People told you how they felt without the need to decorate their words to make them more digestible. The tone of more "civilized" or "sophisticated" people disturbed you, because they would never truly express themselves for the sake of maintaining social stability. Despicable in your mind. You reveled in the chaos of true human interactions.
"Oh. What have the maids prepared this evening?"
"Well, this maid prepared a roast. There's some onions and carrots, and also a salad. Oh, and I also baked bread."
The bread is completely flat.
"Hah! Wonderful. What did you season the meat with?"
"Uhhh... do what now?"
"Did you use any spices?"
"No no no. My dear, did you want to taste meat? Or did you want to taste spices? I can switch out the salad for a bowl of dried herbs if you wish."
Nero's face transformed from happy to angry quite quickly.
"Your tone... is "
He swatted you across the face. This is something that has never happened before. His temper was always easily regulated when it was out of hand. Perhaps he was becoming too comfortable with you. Now your anger was raging. You kept muttering in thoughts...
I could end him right now. This bastard will wish he never had hands when I'm done crippling them.
Instead, you kept your rouse. You are a professional. The only way your plan would work is if you don't break character. You played the submissive role.
"I meant no offense, my love." Of course he struck you, babe. You insulted his manhood. It was a stupid move.
Nero remained silent for a few moments, but then began to speak. "I'm sorry. I've been running drills all day. I guess I brought work home with me. Go. Sit down at the table. I'll be tame once my armor is off."
Your heart was racing. Automatically, you began dishing out your plates. His armored hand definitely left a gash. You could feel the sting of exposed flesh and the wetness of blood. Leaving your face unattended, you sat down and began slowly picking your food.
My mind is not focused. If I were not on a mission, I'd shoot him dead. Right between his armor. He'd never see it coming. That bastard... that twisted f@&$ing-
"Why are you eating already?" He returned quicker than you thought. You remained silent.
"We haven't prayed to Asmodeus and the eight Lords of Hell."
"Of course, dear. My traditions are different. I'm sorry."
"No matter." He sat down and gestured his hands in prayer.
"Asmodeus. We revel in your purifying hellfire. When the Age of Judgement is nye, the Scorched Souls will assimilate with your ranks and see your revenge on the gods given. Our desire is to see the eternal quelling of chaos. The end of conflict through the might of the peaceful. The end of torment and war through the driving hatred of the virtuous. We express these ambitions by living by the Tenants. Your power over us will bring the Age of Glory, and only then will it come when all chaos is destroyed. O' glorious Hell, we await your command. In the Prime Evil's name."
You sat silent, trying to mimic the prayer gesture. Nero seemed to ignore the fact that you don't know diabolical prayers. He poured you both a lot of wine, nearly filling the goblet to the rim. You didn't mind. Your alcohol tolerance is quite hardened.
After a long moment of silence, Nero began to speak. "The Ashen Legion invaded Iadara." He said calmly.
This is very bad news. Extraordinary things happen to the world when elven secrets become known. The Droskari Empire will no doubt use whatever they find there to expand their dominion. But better yet, the reaction from the rest of the Inner Sea will be sensational. Why do dwarves always have to go pick a fight with a giant?
"So how will the chelish military respond?" You asked.
"You're very calm about this."
"Yes. But so are you. It's because it's a serious matter."
"Fair enough excuse. We have direct orders not to respond to the invasion in recognition of dwarven might. They took Iadara honorably. There is no just cause to engage them."
This appalled you. "If the dwarves honorably invaded Cheliax, would you hand it over? Who's to say they won't stop at Kyonin? All nations are threatened with an unprovoked invasion like that."
"I'm entirely in agreement with you. That's why I'm going to war with the Ashen Legion."
"Nero! Don't say that so loud! That's treason!"
"The Order of the Pyre is loyal to me. The politicians never killed side by side with them. I have. Their being is my will. They cannot go unpunished."
"But... why are you telling me this? Do you know how dangerous this is?! I now have information on you. What makes you think the military won't interrogate me!?"
"You will stop yelling this instant!" He grabbed you by the wrist as a sinister flame engulfed his hand. It burned and caused your right arm to sizzle and open with wounds, as if every scar you've ever had came back to life.
"AAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!! YOU BLOODY PSYCHO!!!" You grab the table and flip it up, knocking him in the chin. Blood shot out of his mouth and also what you think may be a piece of his tongue.
F~&~ing s&$~! Looks like this has gone to Plan B. Albeit with an unexpected and more rational excuse for leaving his sorry ass.