The next morning, you are all promptly awaken by a squire from the Swordlords, and informed that it was time to depart. Each of you are assigned an aide to help you gather your things and get on the road quickly. As you finalize your preparations, you see that the other group is already awaken and are departing along with a moderate sized caravan containing a vast amount of supplies and goods. Shouting out from the lead wagon is a dwarf in full plate barking out orders to workers. Jamandi Aldori comes over from them to speak with you momentarily before you depart.
"Follow this road east past Nivatka's Crossing for three days, and you will arrive sure enough at Oleg's Trading Post. Do not dally there, Oleg has requested our aid, and should be expecting your arrival."
Little time is left to inquire as you are quickly set on the road east out of town, along the Shrike River's northern edge. It is a relatively peaceful trip, giving you each plenty of time to get to know one another. By the end of the first days travel, you arrive at Nivatka's Crossing: a town of tradesmen, hunters, fishermen, and trappers. The village itself is surrounded by a wooden palisade and is set on the northeastern bank of the Shrike River. A low bridge allows access over the river here to the south - the southwestern side of the bridge being fortified by well-manned guard towers.
You are able to secure lodging for the night easily enough, and the next morning finds you on the road once again. The three days and two nights of travel are relatively quiet, and you are treated to the sights of the rolling hills and plains of southern Brevoy.
Towards night of the third day, you can see ahead the road appears to end at a run down fort. It is surrounded by a ten foot palisade, at each corner are 20-foot-square watchtowers, each armed with run-down catapults. There appears to be only one entrance through the palisade - a thirty foot wide wooden gate.
Grautak leans down and mutters into the ear of, Whisper, the large and imposing half wolf/half dog he is riding. Grautak then scans the horizon and the area around the dilapidated fort, searching for signs of ambush. Whisper lifts his snout and seems to sniff the air before bringing his muzzle back down.
Vianella looked at the departing caravan of the other group with envy, already in a sour mood due to the aides only there to help her pack rather than bathe and clothe her like the servants she had back home. They get to ride in a wagon and we're stuck on foot. Had I known, I would have requisitioned one of father's horses. A rueful smile played across her face when they are informed of their travel itinerary. And to think, not long ago I would have disdained even the wagon for not being a carriage... They warned me this would not be a 'walk in the park'... It seems it will be more like a walk across the country. Three days afoot!
Thankfully, the first day's end was in a proper bed. She had collapsed into it as soon as she had reached it. It took her an hour the next day, just to fix the wrinkles in her clothing. Of course, this was not to mention the tangles in her hair, not having removed the pins and given it a proper brush before falling asleep. She was thankful to Abadar that she had her magic to fix the inevitable tears they would recieve in their travels. She made sure the next nights, she would at least force herself to prepare for bed properly, so she would have less grooming and repair to deal with in the morning. As the end of the third day approached, she had begun wondering, bitterly, where their destination was.
----
"Finally!" she exclaims when the run down fort appeared in the distance. "That must be Oleg's...," who apparently doesn't care much for property values. It's positively dilapidated! Still, I suppose I should make sure I look presentable. The noblewoman, looks herself over, pulling out some items from her pack. First she slaps her outfit with a stick to get the bulk of the travel dust off, before finishing by muttering a quick spell to mend the small rips, frayed threads, and worn leathers that had appeared in their walk. She then pulls out a mirror to check her visage, doing what she could to fix her hair and clean any smudges from her face. She finally sighs in defeat. At least I look presentable enough. Probably more than they're expecting considering... She gives the fort a dark look .
"Well, I suppose I'm ready enough. Let's not tarry any longer. I'd like to get there before dark. The stars are beautiful at night, but I'd like to look up and see a roof over my head tonight. Hopefully they'll at least have some warm water to clean in." Which could be the last time I'll be truly clean in a long, long time... She sighs and begins the long trek towards the fort, walking as fast as she could while trying also to maintain a more stately pace.
Seeing Vianella starting toward the fort, Grautak moves Whisper in front of her, blocking her path.
"Just a minute, Lady Orlovsky. The constant nagging and reminders that she was LADY Orlosky proved to Grautak the easiest way to deal with this one was to accede her perceived station in life and call her by her proper name. The lessons he had learned dealing with the royal families of Brevoy would serve him well this trip."We need to make sure this isn't a trap. This appears to be Oleg's but I want to make sure it is Oleg's before we just go inside. Whisper here, got a sniff of something in the air and I don't like the looks of that old fort. Something seems... off."
Looking around, his eyes find his brother's. "You picking up what I'm putting down?"
The open road agrees with Rockne, not just as a sign that this new chapter in his life has begun but also as a way for him to continue to prove his value. He wonders if the longshanks even notice how easily he keeps up with them - he as never let his stature slow him down on the road but he doubts the 'ladies' are even aware of it, and the two hobs are too busy whispering to each other in that ugly language......
The halfling is underwhelmed at the sight of the fort but is about to stride forward anyway when Grautak gives his warning. "Should be Oleg's based on the directions we got. What's got you spooked?"
He is not sure he is ready to trust Grautak's beast enough to be truly worried, but Rockne sees no reason to be foolish about things either. He takes the oversized longsword in his hands and scans the area for signs of trouble.
"Sounds like someone's trying to fix up this dump - can't you hear the hammering? No need to stand here in the middle of the road, let's head up to the fort already!"
Grautak gives the halfling a disparaging look.
"Caution and patience are virtues you had best learn, master halfling. I too thrill in the heat of battle, and I often prefer to barrel ahead. But Dagru and I have learned the hard way that sometimes things aren't always as they appear."
He pauses and looks at each of the group's members before continuing.
"I do hear the hammering, and I imagine Whisper smells the woodsmoke coming from the fort's chimney. We are probably safe enough moving forward. I just like to be sure. I am not fond of... surprises. Unless we're the ones giving the surprise, of course."
With that said, he heels Whisper forward at a slow pace so as not to push the rest of the group on foot.
There it goes... 3 days pass... the walk cemented the idea to Yandasana that she was in this expedition for good. After hearing her name from the list, she felt a sharp impact of melancholy in her soul. Her father's wishes were in effect. Not only that, but royal blood has followed her even here.
Vianella Orlovsky knows her bastard status. Yandasana has seen her once or twice in the gathering of royal houses. She was not allowed to sit with pure royal blood. Her elven features made it so obvious that she was a mark of her father's infidelity. But, they called her lady anyway. Maybe as a mockery, she supposes.
Yanda felt a little better in mood on day three. Her lifted spirit on the sight of the fort accentuated a smile on her face. But, upon seeing Vianella focused on her mirror, Yandasana glances at Vianella as if trying to pass venom to her. "Sweetie, better not focus to hard on such a thing. Were not in royal houses anymore. A table to far away, huh?" However, she does not let the words come out of her mouth. Her companion does not deserve such a barrage. She lets the anger subside.
"I hear the sound as well. A compelling curiosity to figure the origins of such a sound. Worth to ask the question. But to know, we must draw near to the fort. If danger does come our way, I can see that our halfling is surprisingly built with strong muscle. A anomaly for his own kind from what I have read. Lets not be to quick to draw our sword until we have the intention of the owner."
Dagru looks irritated by the commotion of the party. He takes a minute to listen for himself while the others talk.
"We need calm here. Grautak is right things are not always as they appear; but, in this case it is just someone finally working on this old place. Let's just continue in and greet them. I am sure they are expecting us given the level of effort they took to organize us and send us here.
What are they worried about anyway? Besides this place doesn't look that bad. It is much better than the holes we have slept in recently.
The past three days had been invaluable to Grautak. The insight on the group that he and Dagru gathered would be helpful, not only in their inevitable battles in the wild lands, but also in the forging of their kingdom.
The halfing seemed a jovial enough sort and Grautak believed he knew the business end of his weapon. He seemed to have something to prove, which was always a good thing. He would be eager and willing. The women on the other hand were a mystery to him.
There is something between the women but I can't sniff it out yet. One seems like she'll do better roughing it than the other. I think we need to have a sit down at Oleg's tonight and see what everyone thinks they are capable of... At least the halfling seems a good sort.. seems to know how to use his sword. The other two... I don't know. Tis good Dagru is with me. I need someone with brains.
The Lady Vianella pauses when Grautak makes his request and explains some nefarious possibilities. A trap? Whisper? Could it truly be so dangerous? The noblewoman's already pale skin, blanched a touch further. After listening to the others, however, she nodded in something akin to relief as the group seemed to reach a consensus with her original intentions, washing away the initial fears that were brought on.
Even the bastard..., a brief unconscious sneer crosses her face as her gaze passes over Yandasana. Really? Am I really going to be thinking of her like that? She had no real control over her circumstances... She probably took this charge to get away from this thinking from the other nobles... She doesn't need more of it from me... The noblewoman looks back towards Oleg's, a look of chagrin passing over her face. And frankly she is the only one that is remotely familiar to my previous circumstances. A savage hafling and two... creatures... Hobgoblins? Are they brothers? How did they get such a charge? And one of them is riding a wolf!?
Still, the idea of caution does have its merits. I'll have to at least try to look past their race and listen to them more. They wouldn't be here if they didn't have some support from the Swordlords and worth with regards to our charge. She let out a small sigh before squaring her shoulders. "Well... Abadar isn't going to bring civilization to the Stolen Lands all by himself. Let's continue under the assumption that this is Oleg's and there is nothing untowards. We will, of course, keep our eyes and ears open for something more... egregious," she said before continuing the journey towards the fort, her eyes now darting about, looking into the shadows of nearby brush.
As the group advances on the fort's gates, they are soon greeted with the smell of food being prepared behind it's walls, and the hammering noise grows louder, with an occasional curse mingled in.
The moment the group crosses the gates, they see a man in his mid-thirties up on the roof of a building, hammering away at repairing the shingles there. He looks up from his work and goes pale at the sight of what just made it's way into the trading post.
"Svetlana! Get inside an' bar the door! NOW!"
He hops down from the roof straight away and lands with a heavy thud and an "Oof!" but quickly scrambles up to his feet, his hammer in hand. He brandishes it like one would a club and calls out, "I dunno why you've come here, beasties, but know this! You won't be takin' our lives without at least a bit of a scrap from me! I've had all I can take, and I'm through with just gettin' run over by your kind!"
Beasties? So I am not the only one to think the same... Almost a relief if not for the fact that we are all here for the same reason.
"Pardon me, sirrah!" the noblewoman exclaimed, stepping forward. "I do believe that you have made something of an error. I am the Lady Vianella Orlovsky. These people with me..." she continues, gesturing to each individual, "are Grautak, Dagru, Rockne Coonak, and Yan...," Again? After just berating myself over it? Is this something innate? There is a slight pause as she forcibly corrects herself "Lady Yandasana Fethen."
"We have been charged by the Swordlords of Restov under the authority of the Lord Regent ofthe Dragonscale Throne to come here to explore the area, but first to assist Oleg, the owner of this...," she paused to look around the dilapidated fort, "trading post. We each bear a charter signed by the Lord Mayor of Restov as well as Swordlords Fervourblade and Aldori."
Vianella looks at the man with a raised eyebrow. "In the interests of a peaceful encounter, and to allow us to carry out our noble charge, perhaps you would care to restate your words...?"
Yandasana speaks sincerely, "Do not worry. Our intention is not to do any harm. We have been sent on behalf of the kingdom to do service in the Stolen Lands. It would be both in our great interest that you do not intend to harm. But, if danger does come, then I will gladly give my all for your protection."
Yandasana takes a respectful bow on behalf of her honor. "I wish you judge us not by our initial looks, but by our actions. Knowing only of my fellow travelers three days ago, I wish to impart the benefit of the doubt. All we ask is for benevolent hospitality."
Dagru remained quiet as the females both took action to greet the anxious man.
This is what I am to look forward to each and every time Grautak and I come into contact with these River people. bahh At least as a member of the Hammer we knew what to expect from outside contact. Dagru let out a light chuckle and continued watching the interactions between his group and the man.
Rockne takes a step to the right as the man jumps down from the roof, ready to intercept the makeshift weapon with his own steel, but the quick introductions from Vianella seem to already be diffusing the situation. Or at least they appeared to be.
No way THIS guy is out here all alone, where's the rest of his crew? He quickly looks from side to side, trying to find the ambushers he feels must be lying in wait somewhere just out of sight.
The man blinks and stares blankly back at you all, his mouth dropping slightly as the two women try to calm him. His flat look quickly grows into one of anger, as he begins to fly into a tirade...
"You mean to tell me, that not only do the 'Swordlords' not send me any proper soldiers, but they send not one, but two groups out that're just passin' through...ONE OF WHICH is loaded with enough goods to fix this place up right an' proper, and not only are they all 'too busy' with their 'missions' to stop and help, but the group that THEY DO SEND, has got a pair of bloody Hobbers in it!?!?"
He kicks over a small pile of shingles and continues to mutter under his breath. From around the corner, a woman makes her way over and says to him quietly, "Shush it now, Oleg. If this is the group that is here to help us, insultin' 'em ain't gonna help matters none!"
She then makes her way over, cautiously, and says, "E...excuse my husband. Things have had us on edge the past few months, and we've not had any luck with gettin' help. We've been gettin' the shake down by a bunch of bandits, and we're gettin' a bit desperate. A trapper told us that some group would be comin' this way to 'explore,' but we beg of ya, please help us rid ourselves of these bandits once an' for all?"
Dagru looks back into his cart pulled by his two mules trying to envision just where this man came up with the idea that they had enough supplies to fix this mess in front of him.
The group had watched for days as Dagru pushed along these two mules he called O'Tee and Lim ahead of a cart filled with party favors which he and his brother celebrated in each night. The cart was filled with kegs of ale, oil, flasks and vials of all types. The mules even wore pack saddles and saddle bags with a keg of ale strapped to each.
"Sir, I don't mind you calling us Hobbers, but you need to watch your attitude especially if intend for us to help you. Now did I hear you say something about bandits? We might know a thing or too about stopping some bandits."
"My Brother is correct. The best way to catch a bandit is with another bandit. I think the Swordlords knew what they were doing. We would be more than happy to help you with your bandit problem."
Hmmm, opportunity for recruits already. This is a good sign. Wonder how organized they are and how experienced. Might have to put'em down if their rabid. Heh... there's always one that is rabid.
Climbing out of his saddle, Grautak makes his way over to the man he presumes is Oleg and extends his hand. Although his voice is rough and gravelly, his words seem to ring sincere. "The Ladies speak true, my good man. We are sent to assist you. To assist all in these wild lands. I'm Grautak Matrakha. I think every introduction should be made with a handshake. You get a feel for a man's worth in his handshake. What do you say?"
Why you ungrateful piece of.....
"Can't imagine why youd have trouble getting help, youre so warm and inviting." Rockne looks around the place again trying to get a better sense of the outpost and their hosts.
"We may not be proper soldiers but we're not exactly roofers either. Like the ladies said, we've been sent to help, so why don't you tell us about your bandit problem and we'll see what we can do."
Svetlana turns and glares at Oleg, before saying through gritted teeth, "Oleg Leveton, get yer hind end over here and shake this...this man's hand this instant!"
He glares first at his wife, then at the mounted hobgoblin, before cautiously approaching and shaking Grautak's hand. His grip is firm, and you get the feeling that he is trying to impress upon you his own physical strength, which is impressive in it's own right.
Svetlana says, "I apologize for our manners. It's just been a terrible few months, and every group that has been through here has had other agendas. Where do I even begin?"
"The beginning, I'd wager," Oleg offers up sarcastically, which earns him a scathing glance from Svetlana.
"They first came 'round about three months ago," Svetlana starts. "They threatened to burn the whole post down if we didn't agree to hand over all of the furs and goods we'd accumulated over the past month from hunters and trappers."
Oleg's fists tighten as he adds, "Not ta mention threatenin' to take Svetlana here for their own...amusement."
The woman shudders, but continues, "Ever since, they've came each month, an hour from sunrise on the first day of the month. The first time there were a dozen of 'em. Most of 'em seemed like lackeys, but their two leaders were more imposing. One was a cloaked man armed with a bow, the other a woman carrying two hatchets. She did the majority of the talking that first time around, and the way she eyed me was the scariest part. The man seemed a bit crude and foolish, but she seemed sharp as a tack. Even so, she took my wedding ring as part of their first 'tax.'"
"The rest of the trips, it was only the cloaked bastard and his men, less in number each time. I think they feel they've got us whipped, and don't need to show as much force. They're due back tomorrow mornin', if they stick to their pattern. We'd...we'd be mighty grateful if y'all could help us," Oleg concludes.
Grautak grips Oleg's hand firmly, looks him in the eyes and gives Oleg's hand one good shake before letting go. "Good strong grip you got there, Oleg. I wager you're a hard worker. I'd be pissed off too if someone came around stealing my hard work and scaring my missus. I don't know about the others, but me and my brother will help you deal with these thieves."
He watches the exchange then interrupts,
"Well, it looks like we got a day to plan for this upcoming dance so how about you show us in to this place so we can help."
Dagru then kicks the cart to signal for O'Tee and Lim to move ahead. The mules reluctantly shake and shuffle ahead.
"So where do I put my boys here so we can get started?"
Of all the nerve... such disrespect for the Swordlords, the Regent, and myself..., Vianella fumes silently at the man's tirade but smiles benevolently when his wife is able to talk sense into him. Leave it to we females to be the voice of reason... Subtle but firm... she could probably hold her own at a court... And it seems the other group passed through here, unless there were more than the two of us..., she curses silently. The Swordlords could have had us travel together! Would have saved my feet some blisters, to be able to ride in the caravan. Quite wrong-headed of them to split us before we have to split from the main path...
Grautak's words sink in and the noblewoman raises an eyebrow, giving the hobgoblins a quick glance. '...best way to catch a bandit is with another bandit'? Those two are bandits? Hmm, perhaps former bandits. Or else they could use the charter against themselves..., a small amused smile crosses her face at the thought.
The Lady Vianella Orlovsky listens to the trials of Svetlana and her husband... already relegated the man to second string... well done, Vi. Her face goes pale at the quick discription of the more sinister threat against the woman. She schools her face into one of righteous indignation. "To be sure," she says to the Svetlana, following up on Grautak's words, "our first task or 'mission' is to give you the assistance you need. Even if it were not, I would not walk past upon hearing the treatment you have received from such lawlessness! And a trading post of all places. By Abadar, that cannot stand!" she finishes, a righteous religious fervor coloring her voice.
Vianella nods at Dagru. "Indeed," she says. "Let us get settled here and then begin planning. I am sure we will have more questions on these villains soon enough."
Oleg points to the building on the western side of the fort. "You can store your mules there, even that thing I suppose, as long as it can control itself. Your goods can be stowed there in the storage pen, and you can put your personal effects in the guest house," he quickly scans the group then shrugs and adds, "Only four beds in there, either a pair of you can double up, or one of you can use a bedroll in there or help yourself to the stables."
Svetlana smiles broadly and says, "Come along! I've got some stew almost done over on the fire and a fresh loaf of bread in the oven finishing up! Wine! This calls for wine!" she exclaims as she hurriedly hurries into the house. She eventually comes out with plenty of plates, bowls, and mugs, as well as the food and wine. She happily pours everyone a full cup, but as she approaches the ladies, she blushes and says, "My apologies for not having proper wine glasses for you, but we are a long way from the courts of Silverhall out here," a friendly chuckle slips before she catches herself and silently pours the rest of the drinks.
The halfling's gaze follows wherever Oleg points as he names each building and its purpose. No WAY I'm sleeping in a stable if everyone else gets a bed!
Rockne takes a glass from Svetlana with what he hopes is a polite bow of his head. Taking only a small sip his mind is already racing over their first task of defending this place. Dagru and Vianella have it right: there is a lot to learn and a lot to do, and the sun continues to move across the sky.
"One cloaked fool and less than a dozen men. If they think they've got you beat they won't expect resistance. Meaning we hit 'em hard and fast enough they should scatter pretty quickly." He turns his head to look at the gates of the fort. "But we don't want that, do we? They run back with their tails between their legs, the hachette woman comes back with reinforcements. So we can't just scare 'em off.....we've got to beat them. All of them. No one can get away."
"Oleg, that stable strong enough to hold a bunch of men that don't want to be held?" Seeing everyone looking at him and realizing just how many steps ahead his thoughts just took him, Rockne takes another small sip and falls silent for the moment.
"I reckon so, but this ain't no court an' I ain't no judge. If y'all can whip em, I say they should hang," Oleg says bluntly.
Dagru puts away his team of mules and cart. Realizing the situation he even openly agrees to sleep with his team in the back of his cart.
"You all need not argue of sleeping arrangements, my team and I will keep an eye on things as well as the ale. haha
After making the announcement he then follows out behind the halfling as they review the grounds. After Rockne speaks Dagru follows,
"Lil Rock there is right on point, no one can escape. We let them in here then we shut the gates to take them all down. Justice even Abadar would appreciate as we strive to rebuild communities within the region.
Rockne bristles at the hobgoblin's choice of the word 'lil' but is willing to let it slide for the moment since Dagru is ultimately agreeing with him. He looks to Oleg and shrugs.
"Easier to capture 12 than take all 12 down at once, but the ends the same either way. If they earned what they get, they earned it. Thing is......" he reaches into a pouch and pulls out the folded note they received when selected. "Doesn't say 'banditry'. Says 'unrepentant bantitry'. Battle is battle, and things happen on the battle field that I'm not going to apologize for once the fighting's done. But sometimes you get swept up into a crappy life and just need a chance to get out of it."
He focuses his gaze on the two hobgoblins. "Right?"
Vianella blinked in shock as Svetlana's husband explained the predicament regarding their lodgings. Share a bed?? What kind of place is this that only has four guest beds? They should be offering me their own... No... Stop, Vi. Still, she breathes a sigh of relief when Dagru volunteers to sleep in his cart, allowing her to go into the guest house and drop her things off in one of the rooms.
After returning to the others, the noblewoman accepts a cup from Svetlana holding it delicately with two fingers, seemingly unwilling to properly grasp the worthless mug. You're doing it again... Home is a long way away. Things are going to be different. Adapt... Her tentative grasp becomes more firm and she gives Svetlana a warm smile. "Many thanks. No apologies are necessary. You are correct. The courts are distant. Your hospitality, however, is far better than that of some nobles I know."
As the conversation turns to the upcoming task, the Lady Vianella nods at Dagru's initial plan, blinking in surprise at the hobgoblin's mention of the Master of the First Vault. A hobgoblin that knows of, perhaps even reveres Abadar? A (former?) bandit? Perhaps he merely heard me mention the Judge and seeks to put me at ease... Something to pay attention to... She then turns her thoughts on Rokne's interpretation of the charter, voicing them. "I would expect that any bandit that did not immediately throw down their arms and surrender upon being confronted by our righteousness may be considered 'unrepentant'. That being said, it being unlikely that the full twelve bandits will appear, we may wish to keep some alive in order to interrogate them. Perhaps if we 'cut off the head the body will follow...," she continued, paraphrasing a proverb she had heard during her lessons, speaking almost in a conceptual manner, not out of experience, but of book-learning, "meaning bring down the 'cloaked bastard', or the woman if she is there, first and perhaps the others will be more easily 'convinced' to become repentant of their theiving ways. All we really need is one of such to give us information on the areas they have travelled and where they are likely to lay their hat."
Content to let everyone voice their suggestions, Grautak watches patiently; assessing each member of the group. Of course he would sleep in the stables with his brother and the mules. They'd slept in worse conditions than this many times, and would do so again he surmised.
Having finally heard enough, Grautak decided to voice his concerns.
"What are you going to do when they don't return to their hideout? It's all well and good to plan on how to deal with this small group, if indeed it is a small group tomorrow, but what are we going to do about the rest of them?"
Pausing to let his words sink in, Grautak then continued. "And if we do capture and question one, what do we do with him afterward? Oleg's ain't no jail and I wouldn't disrespect him by thinking him as such nor asking him to act as jailer. Are all of you prepared to do what must be done after we get our answers?" He looks over to his brother and nods with a slight grimace on his face.
"Now that we have some time. I think it best we understand each other's capabilities a bit better before we take these bandits on. I'll even start... once we have some more ale and food. Dagru! Let's bust open a keg of that cranberry ale for this evening."
"I agree Grautak."
Dagru leads the group to his cart where his supplies and the ale is located. There he prepares his goods and announces that it is ready for consumption. Dagru grabs a mug and takes a huge drink before speaking.
Now that we have drink we can continue. Let's talk capabilities and conditions with our team here. What do we really know about each other? I say all we really know is that we were chosen to represent the Swordlords. We have done nothing nor seen anything that proves our worth to one another.
Dagru gathers his thoughts, another mug of ale, and turns back to finish.
"Let me tell you what I know. My brother here is a strong horseman with a quick hand and a long blade. I am a bit of a drifter skilled at targeting the more vulnerable targets found in the rear with my precision. Then we have the Halfling, no doubt a strong one in his own right with a bit of a temper also utilizing a long blade. Next we have the women."
He pauses looks over the ladies and continues,
"The women unlike my own kin here are indeed soft targets... hahah but I assume each of them quite capable in their own right and most likely from a distance or with magic. Am I close?"
"Yeah, maybe I get carried away sometimes, but its served me well so far. Spent a lot of time training to fight folks bigger than me so itll be pretty clear pretty quick that there's no halflings like me, 'cept me."
He nods to Grautak. "But you're right. Even if none of them get away, their bosses will notice when they don't come back. That's why we'll need at least one of them to answer some questions and give us some info about their true hideout. After that......."
Again he holds out the letter, then shrugs. "Everyone knows the law. If they say they'll repent and they help us take down the entire band of outlaws, they get another chance. If not, its like the letter says. The blade or the rope."
Vianella looks at Grautak after his question, nodding with Rockne's response. "Indeed. We, literally, carry the letter of the law to these lawless lands. The bandits can either truly repent or they can die," she says before sitting back in thought, swishing the wine in her mug. Simple enough, right? I've heard of executions in prisons and whatnot that occur quite often. It can't be much different...
Taking a sip, the noblewoman responds to the hobgoblins' other question, unaffected by Dagru's minor joke, for the simple fact that it was true. Three days of walking and the blisters to show for it, proves him right. I am no athlete. "I am a member of the House Orlovsky and it seems I may represent the aristocracy and noblity here," she says with an amused smile, showing that her words were made with jest rather than haughtyness. "As we are representatives of the law in these stolen lands," she continues on a more serious note, "I am a diplomat, as not all things need to be solved by the sword, and a representative of Abadar's church. I carry His word and teachings, in hopes of bringing civilization to the uncivilized. The Master of the First Vault has seen fit to lend me a small portion of his divine power. I have also been told by some that my sermons can oft inspire them to greater feats."
"Ok Ok with but a night's rest we must decide the destiny of these thugs.
Again Dagru paces around, gathers another drink and says boldly,
"Vianella, some people can not be reasoned with and for this they must be judged. I say we let them in, lock the doors behind them, and give them one opportunity to confess to their crimes, provide detailed information to the whereabouts of all others involved, and surrender all their possessions to these people, our hosts, here as a repentance for their acts. If they can not or will not they shall die for their crimes.
He pauses for questions and concerns and then offers a plan.
"I say the ladies and our hosts invite the people in to this... this fort. Once inside near the campfire area Rockne and Grautak shut the gate or re-position a wagon/cart in front blocking the exit. In the meantime I will provide overwatch from the fence top until they have committed themselves, dropping everything or fighting for their lives. Are we game?"
Yandasana sits comfortably in a straight posture. "Thank you for the wine, dear." Yanda did not much like hearing the word bastard be yet repeated. They used the word with out any regard to what it really means.
Pondering the recent exchanges, she concentrates thoughtfully, collecting knowledge to apply to the situation at hand. "Dangerous..." Yandasana pauses for a moment to let the word sink in. "Very dangerous."
After taking a brief sip of wine she continues, "The least blood spilt will be most ideal. We need leverage... I need to understand the relationship between the cloaked man and his followers. Do they hold strong loyalty to him? Does he bound his fellow companions without much reward? If so, perhaps we can provide them with greater investments. To ease off his power without bloodshed. But, I am not sure we could hold a long term allegiance with a couple of bandits. A sudden disappearance of them would probably make any of the other bandits suspicious. Traveling without this place protected would be foolish. Our decisions to take care of them harshly may lead to consequences to what we are sworn to protect."
Yandasna looks over to Viannella, "A do or die situation will not change ideologies. Instead, lets surprise them with some hospitality. Grant them a seat among the table, provide them with a decent meal to loosen their mouths."
"I don't think these men can be reasoned with, nor do I think they will accept an invitation to dinner. They'll want their tribute and they'll want to leave. I think we are better off hittin'em fast and hard. Maybe keep one alive for questioning." He takes a long pull from his tankard of ale before continuing.
"I agree with Dagru- we position him on the walkway, hidden behind the palisade. He can reign havoc on them once they are all in the compound. He can also prepare some nasties for them ahead of time. I suggest one of the ladies remain hidden behind the wagon, ready to sling magic. The other can take cover behind one of the buildings. Rockne, I say you wait by the back of the stable and hit'em from behind. Whisper and I can attack from the front to distract them." He stops and takes another long pull from his tankard and then hands the empty to Dagru for a refill.
"The key is keeping any of them from escaping. Rockne you need to make sure that gate gets closed before any of them escape. Do you think you can handle that?"
The halfling cranes his neck to look over at the two large wooden gates. "Close them both fast enough to surprise a dozen men and keep them from riding out? 'Course I can."
He squints to look again. "Although......might keep me out of the fight for a while though. One of us behind each door, snap the trap closed quicker and get us back into the fight."
"Looks as though an ambush after confrontation is our plan. Ladies I do wish you go along with the ambush. You will indeed get your word and we will know their actions immediately, what do you say?"
Vianella listens to the thoughts of the others and tries to relate it to some of the abstract teachings she had received, when she was able to sneak into lessons on battle and guerilla warfare. She didn't retain much, but she did recall the descriptions of criminals and how they may generally act.
"I wasn't expecting to reason with them right away... particularly when we have the advantage of surprise," she began, looking at Dagru and Yandasana with a raised eyebrow. Never have I heard that offering a criminal tea and crumpets will win over their heart! Can they be serious? "As Grautak said, these men are bandits. They are expecting hospitality, due to the fear they instill in these two souls. Offering hospitality and a meal will not bring them around as such. I expect they would only respond after an appropriate show of force... a shock to their preconceived notions... Then, perhaps, a warm meal and hospitality may influence them further, if that is the desire. We are not here to reform bandits, we have not the time, but to punish them. We should not be concerned with the spilled blood of criminals. The punishment depends on their attitude once they surrender."
"Thus, I would suggest confrontation after ambush, perhaps" she continued re-ordering Dagru's last thought. "As I said, focus the battle efforts against their leader. Once he is down, the others may be more open to discussion. Alternatively, we remove the leader's support and see if he is willing to talk when he is alone. Depending on the numbers, the former may be the easier path."
"I can't speak to positioning, as I have little experience in such things," the noblewoman continued honestly. "Still I doubt these men would expect to see anyone other than Svetlana or her husband. Preferably that last. The man can greet them alone while the rest of us remains hidden in some fashion. Also," she said, eyeing the gate, "Unless Rokne is particularly quick on his feet, we may need two to close the gates behind them, to set off the ambush and leave no escape."
Rockne gives a sly grin. "Quicker on my feet than you'd expect. But we want to catch them by surprise, I like you're idea of closing both gates at the same time."
If we start by asking them to surrender they'll laugh and it'll come down to swords. And we'll have lost the element of surprise. No...we slam the doors shut, Dagru takes out the leader while the rest of us take out a minion or two. Then TELL them to surrender."
If Im in back closing one door, Dagru's up top, and Grautak is up in front of them, who's closing the other door?
The halfling looks back to their hosts. "Any other hands here that might help? We'll handle the real danger, but maybe someone can shoot arrows safely from a roof or even help with the doors?" Need to learn the terrain...
"Hey, do you hear that? Quiet
Dagru waves for everyone to settle down.
"Horses! Are you expecting someone? Get ready!
He grabs his long bow and heads toward the fence top to get a better look.
|
You see a half-Elf riding a horse, the horse has a polearm strapped to it and the rider is a terrible rider other than managing to stay on the horse he seems to not be very good.
As he gets closer you notice it's Gird one of the rejected candidates from the expedition hall back in Restov.
"Hello the fort! I come bearing news from Restov" he yells
He rides around to the front of the fort to enter, he seems reasonably travel stained, and he isn't wearing the pretty clothes from last time you saw him.
Gird takes on a very suprised expression when he sees the gathered explorers.. "Well this saves me tracking you all down, I have news of two things firstly Master Oleg your reinforcements are on their way and the second is that I have been given leave to join group one as a member"
Gird takes his charter out and holds it up for all to see.
Grautak looked Gird up and down suspiciously then glanced over at his brother. "The papers real?" At a nod from Dagru, Grautak snorts and shakes his head. "They sent us another dandy! Dammit all! I hope you know your way around a battle better than you do a horse! We don't have time to bother with the niceties. We are expecting trouble tomorrow and are planning to deal with it. Come in, have a drink, get some grub and join the conversation."
Give me those!
Dagru moves up and takes the papers from Gird to examine them.
"Let's have Yan look over them too."
He holds the papers out for Yan to look over while keeping an eye on Gird. He then demands,
"So why is it that they feel you can help us? What do you now know that we didn't?"
|
|
Gird dismounts
"They know that my family is powerful and they saw an opportunity to reduce offense given to my family when I was not picked originally for this expedition Even if it was sending me off on my own as a glorified messenger boy."
" As for my capabilities well peewee... I'm strong and fit, I can handle myself in a fight I have divine magics, I know some of the slayers arts and I have been known on occasion to debate my way out of problems."
"As for your plans for these bandits, I'll hide and be ready to spring out and attack on your signal"
He is smoothing his clothing and swiping dust off himself the whole while.