"Not much. But a trading post seems to me a perfect place as basis camp!"
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Anando Verisisi answers Jasrella, pointing at the closest village first.
"Nivakta's Crossing is a village at the very southern edge of Rostland situated on the northern bank of the Shrike River and overlooking the Stolen Lands to its south. Little over 100 inhabitants. The South Rostland Road runs through the village There is a low, fortified bridge across the Shrike there, used for people going from and to the River Kingdoms. The town is home to trappers, anglers, hunters and tradesmen. The locals are a serious bunch and very suspicious of strangers especially those from the south."
Then he points to the fort symbol.
"This wooden fortification has stood for years on the southern border of Brevoy. If the information we got is correct with the growing tensions between Rostland and Issia, the soldiers and scouts stationed here have been recalled to Restov. The fort itself was abandoned in a swift but orderly manner."
Stefan Tomanescu can confirm that information. The fort is currently abandoned, as far as Restov knows.
Finally he points to Oleg's Trading Post.
"The outpost lays at a distance of approximately 100 miles from Restov. Oleg’s Trading Post is located at the southern edge of Brevoy, but formally outside of it. To the south, the green line of the Narlmarches looms only a few miles away. Owned and operated by a stern man named Oleg Leveton his wife Svetlana, and his seven sons, they have stopped the bandits from moving north, and attracted a sizable group of pioneers, adventurers and frontiersmen into a small town. Their remote location, bandit presence and inconvenient distance from a major river has prevented it from realizing significant financial success."
He sighs.
"Rupert wanted to move south without reaching it, entering the Greenlands before the Trading Post, keeping more close to the rivers. He imagine them as allies, to be approached after we got something going."
Still looking at the map
abandoned..hmm
Glancing up at Anando for a short period of time before looking back down at the map
Did he have a specific area in mind, and why avoid the trading post? The idea of having a a small town as part of any defense is appealing, but not a necessity.
Bachu looks at the map again, "If that is the case Anando, maybe right here", Bachu points on the map where the two rivers come together, just southwest of Fort Serenko, "Would be a good place to set up a camp. Without seeing it, it's hard to say, but in between the two rivers gives us a good defensive position, and two rivers to use for travelling. But maybe we should gather the supplies and get out of here. Could someone use an illusion to make it look like the supplies are staying while we leave or will we have to disable the guards to get it out of here."
that area does appeared to be a good spot, but...
What do we know of this river..how deep is the river, how wide is the river, how fast is it running, does it flood the area, are there any local denizens that have claimed that area as their hunting grounds. It is a good choice but as you have said we need to see it first. We are going to be moving very slowly with or without the treasury. I feel we should play out this restov situation though...to see what they intend to do.
Jasrella looks up from the map and looks at the faces of those around the room. She them speaks directly to rade.
your majesty, I feel that since we are about to move into the stolen lands to reclaim them, then we should proceed as if this is a military operation. If the restovians will let us leave in piece, then we start to move as soon as we can. Put out riders out front and on our flanks. We make our way to Nivatka's crossing to resupply and maybe hire a local guide of the stolen lands. If we are able to get one..great if not we try elsewhere. We then move to the abandoned fort. We clear it of unwanted guest if the need be. If it is abandoned then we use it as a temporary base of operations. We secure it and then we can make runs into the stolen lands to find a spot that suites our needs. We can also send a few to the trading post to gather information and a guide. Once we find a spot, we build it up as a defensive base. Your majesty, this is my suggestion on proceeding.
"Umm, the fort is abandoned, but it is still property of the kingdom. That might present a problem." Stefan cautions.
"Actually if she is to be a queen, she has to take what she needs!"
"Not from an existing kingdom, Brevoy, that is actually a casus belli."
looking from one to the other..Jasrella keeps her tone calm and professional.
Gentlemen...your opinions are welcomed, but we will not be taking anything, and a war is something we want to avoid right now. I did take the reactions of Brevoy into consideration when I suggested reclaiming the fort. This is to be a temporary situation at best. I do not see us there for more than a few nights. We have a lot of soldiers to move to a new home along with auxiliary units, supplies, not to mention families. Our wagon train will be long and slow with over 20 wagons. That is the reason I suggested the fort as a staging area, our supplies will be well defended for the short time we need to find a proper position in the stolen lands. I feel that an abandoned fort being used as shelter for a few days will not bring any diplomatic problems. We clear it if need be but it stays as it is...we are just using it to help shelter our numbers.
Ishana is quick to support Stefan's position on the subject.
"Taking the Fort by force escalates an already tense situation. Yes, Ezekiel has a point, if she is to be a queen, she might have to take what she needs. That said, this is not always a wise tactic, sometimes the intelligent leader is the one that recognises when force and when diplomacy are called for. The smarter leader still knows when she is strong enough to use force. We are not, currently in the strongest position to fight Brevoy, ergo I would not wish to antagonise them unduly. The Fort is a strong place, its true, but I believe that first finding a place where our citizens, our non combatants to be safe would be the priority. The Trading Post is best for that, but NOT necessarily the place to build our final base. Set up shop in the Greenbelt, clear out the bandits, expand into the area, enter into a position of strength. Then open ties with Brevoy or -if you wish to risk it, expand into the area and take the Fort firmly. Better yet, make a deal that allows Brevoy to gift the obviously abandoned and useful Fort to us. Pick whatever, but dont provoke something we dont have a way of beating - the mere fact we are attempting this trick with the Treasury indicates we dont have the might to face Brevoy - therefore there is little sense in making such an inflammatory move by taking the Fort for personal use, at such an early stage."
Bachu let's the others make there points and then adds his on opinion, "I agree that the fort is a strong location, but I think it is most important for us to get out of Brevoy as quickly as possible. Once we are out of their territory they are much more likely to leave us alone. As long as we are in their territory any of the rival groups are likely to bother us. We need to get moving whatever our goal is though. This might best be tabled until we are on the road and moving as wherever we decide to head to, at least for now it is all in the same direction."
"I agree with Ishana and STefan... poking the bear is not the wisest option at this point."
"Seems there is some confusion here. If, as Jarsella is saying, we only intend to occupy the fort for a few nights for shelter, then I foresee no problems as it is unoccupied. I was merely saying that any plans to take and keep it would be ill advised."
"Stefan's right - taking the fort permanently is definitely a cause for war, " Alysandra finally weighs in, "but using it for a night or three isn't; you can bet that if we go that way, by the time we get down there there's going to be someone inside, a small bandit group or whatnot, who will have to be removed." She's eyeing the map, shaking her head and trying to think tactically, strategically, and politically all at once, and two of those are things she is, to be frank, not good at.
Hearing from Anando Verisisi how the king was thinking helps, though; the rest is just thinking like a carter. "How about if ... a day to Nivakta's Crossing, where maybe we can hire on a few additional hunters and trappers to serve as scouts and guides." Standing by the map, she starts marking off distances using her fore- and middle fingers. "We stay on the north side of the Shrike, because crossing one river is better than crossing two, and it's another day to Fort Serenko, where we can stop to finish shaking things down for a day or two - not a permanent stay, but making sure we've figured out what works on the road, what needs to be switched around, and switching them around. We do a last go-round of the horses and wagons - tack, shoes, reinforce anything on the wagons that's looking weak - and then when we leave, keep following the river. A day to Crooked Falls, a day to Shrike Falls, then one more day down the river and we pause for a day. Send scouts out to here," and she indicates the 'hairpin turn' in the river where the Stag Kingdom, the Kobold Land, and the Greenbelt meet, "rest and recover and fix up, and then we can either head overland to that point, or else if we can figure a way to use the river, we go downriver to that point.
"I don't know much about forting up - I'm the first to admit I'm not much of a carter - but there the river protects our back from major attacks. Fortify the point as our base, take the Stag Kingdom, run the kobolds into the dragon forest, and ally with - or negotiate absorption of - the Greenlands. If we manage just that part, I'm sure Oleg Leveton and his seven sons would jump at the chance, one way or the other."
"I didn't exactly convince them to leave us alone, just not to bother us for the moment. I am sure the riders left behind will have something to say when we start leaving with everything, but there are only two of them and they can't really stop us. But we must move quickly!"
Jasrella looks on as the others make their opinions known.
Ok everyone, time is not on our side. We need to make a decision and soon. The Fort is our best option, going cross country into unknown territory is not a good idea. We are moving to slow and have to many things we need to defend. We should use the Fort as a staging area to find our best place to set up camp. Send riders out to search the local areas for what we need first, these riders can make better time without the burden of the wagons. We can also find out what is up with the Trading Post before we head there. There are too many unknowns to just blindly walk into anyplace in the stole lands. We need information.
She looks over at Anando..
what else can you tell us of the King's plans once he got down to the stolen lands...
Porablum listened to the debate, keeping silent. She thought the trading post was their best option, as it would provide a place to purchase supplies, but she also wasn't the tactical expert some of the others were. Regardless, she agreed they needed urgency. They likely only had until the Lord Mayor made his final decision about the supplies to get on the move.
"Perhaps we can learn more as we ride? I agree with Stefan that we must move quickly. Regardless of what we do when we get to the Stolen Lands or Fort Serenko, we need to pass through Nivakta's Crossing. So, let us prepare to move out and travel that way, and plan our next course of action on the road. That is what we need to do right now."
Well if no one else has anymore input.....alright then, head back to your camps and start to break down or finish breaking down. Start with the essentials first, just in case we need to leave quickly. Good luck
She gives a nod towards Alysandra and as politely as she can
Do not take this the wrong way but keep yourself available in case we need your mouth to get us past the restovians. Please...
Looking again at all in attendance.
When everyone is ready we will leave and head to Nivakta's Crossing. As a unit.
Jasrella starts to walk towards the end of the tent, stops and turns around and looking at Rade
Come on kid, do something...anything is better than nothing....
Seeing that she has said little to nothing during this meeting
Damn it all to hell.
Your majesty, I recommend you and anando come with me to the Coursers camp it is the safest place right now. I think that Porter's crew can do their jobs well enough without guidance.
"International Businessmen, or IB, is the preferential way to refer to us," Alysandra corrects Jasrella absently. "You know, no matter where we go, we're not going to succeed in leaving unless we can basically persuade the Powers-That-Be in Restov that we're either more trouble than we're worth, or that it's otherwise in their best interests to see us off without interference." She frowns, hesitates, then looks up from the map. "I think it might be a good idea to tie that issue off early. If Stefan can get me in to see ... well, whomever it would be a good idea to see, I'd presume the Mayor, but perhaps there's a noble or two with critical influence? Anyhow, should we go try to convince them otherwise before they even get started? I suspect I could talk the Mayor into - or out of - almost anything, just now."
"Well, I have my and Merus's stuff ready to go. So, if Alysandra isn't needed here, we can go and try to convince the Lord Mayor that it is in his interests to let us leave. But remember, I'm not really anybody here, that was Merus. They just know he kept me around."
"Kept you around means he valued you. And if they valued and trusted him, that means that they'll at least talk to you - and, I hope, anyone you bring with." Alysandra looks out the tent entrance, then sighs. "He's going to be a lecherous greaseball again, though. I hate dealing with them. Give me a straightforward business deal instead of politicians ..."
"I tend to agree that diplomacy often works best when attempting to find pleasing solutions. As before Alysandra, while I won't be able to offer anything on the diplomatic field, if you desire my presence during the negotiation stage, I can follow you in, purely for safety purposes. Just let me know what you intend to decide".
Making an ambivalent gesture, Ishana glances at the map for a long while. "Of course, if they are not open to diplomatic suggestions, then this tends to get a little more complicated. I tend to agree that in open battle, we wouldn't stand much of a chance, if things reached that point. In the absence of diplomacy, my advice would be to use the deception trick with the treasury to gain a head start, and then make a beeline for the Fort - it's the most defensive position. I don't think you stay there though, the last thing we want is a siege, but I do think you try and attack any supply lines they would have. I guess, maybe the single advantage I see is that we would be taking utterly everything with us, whereas any large force would have to have an extremely long supply chain. It means that if we make for dangerous territory, such a large supply chain becomes an attractive target for opportunistic parties (such as monstrous tribes), and allows smaller forces, such as the ones we have, to harass if we can. Still, I stress that this is worst case scenario only, and would prefer a diplomatic solution be found if at all possible".
"Our problem," says Alysandra, "is getting out far enough that a long supply chain becomes a problem for them. The wagons are easily caught by calvary; no matter our actions, calvary would easily pin us in place for whatever foot soldiery comes after. So ..."[/b] She shrugs, then suggests to Garess, "You might make plans to move Her Highness," (since Rupert is alive, Rade shouldn't be hailed as 'Queen' or 'Her/Your Majesty') "and the treasury to the Coursers' camp if a Restov troop comes pounding down the road with lances lowered. Meanwhile, the IB and all will get the place packed up." She looks around at everyone else and says, "If you weren't already doing it, I suggest you do the same."
Considering Ishana's offer, she glances at Stefan, and asks, "If they turn hostile, do you know a way for us to get out of the city without being seen?" If the answer is yes, Ishana needn't come; if the answer is no, then she'd be glad of the assist.
And with at least basic destination plans made - Nivatka's Crossing being the first goal - she gives orders to the IB to finish up packing and getting the place ready to move (with luck, the pavilion everyone is in is the only and last thing that has to be taken down and packed), and heads into Restov with Stefan and, possibly, Ishana.
"Depends on where we are. I have, um, "connections" that Sir Axhammer and others might not approve of. I can get us safely out as long as we aren't trapped to begin with."
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And I am back, sorry for the wall of text, but the summary is at the end.
Glancing up at Anando for a short period of time before looking back down at the map
Did he have a specific area in mind, and why avoid the trading post? The idea of having a a small town as part of any defense is appealing, but not a necessity.
Bachu looks at the map again, "If that is the case Anando, maybe right here", Bachu points on the map where the two rivers come together, just southwest of Fort Serenko, "Would be a good place to set up a camp. Without seeing it, it's hard to say, but in between the two rivers gives us a good defensive position, and two rivers to use for travelling. But maybe we should gather the supplies and get out of here. Could someone use an illusion to make it look like the supplies are staying while we leave or will we have to disable the guards to get it out of here."
Anando nods.
"That is what Rupert wanted. He didn't wanted to disturb the Leventons by pushing in into their territory, as they seem very independent and distrustful of outsider, and thought to go into the Stolen Lands closer to Restov, displacing the bandits and bringing law into those lawless lands. After which he would try to join forces with the Leventons."that area does appeared to be a good spot, but...
What do we know of this river..how deep is the river, how wide is the river, how fast is it running, does it flood the area, are there any local denizens that have claimed that area as their hunting grounds. It is a good choice but as you have said we need to see it first. We are going to be moving very slowly with or without the treasury. I feel we should play out this restov situation though...to see what they intend to do.
Anando answers as best as he can.
"Splitting from the Little Sellen, the Shrike is named for the numerous flocks of birds that nest along its length. Averaging 300 feet wide and sometimes reaching depths of 60 feet or more, the Shrike would make an excellent trade route between Brevoy and the southern lands, were it not for a pair of 30-foot-high waterfalls, marked in the map, that make safe river travel impossible between the two points. The Crooked and Kiravoy rivers as much smaller, but much faster, and vary depending on the season, bringing water from the melted mountain ice."We make our way to Nivatka's crossing to resupply and maybe hire a local guide of the stolen lands. If we are able to get one..great if not we try elsewhere. We then move to the abandoned fort. We clear it of unwanted guest if the need be. If it is abandoned then we use it as a temporary base of operations. We secure it and then we can make runs into the stolen lands to find a spot that suites our needs. We can also send a few to the trading post to gather information and a guide. Once we find a spot, we build it up as a defensive base. Your majesty, this is my suggestion on proceeding.
Rade Surtova nods.
"If the others thinks that could work, I think is a very good plan.""Umm, the fort is abandoned, but it is still property of the kingdom. That might present a problem." Stefan cautions.
"Actually if she is to be a queen, she has to take what she needs!"
"Not from an existing kingdom, Brevoy, that is actually a casus belli."
Anando Verisisi interjects.
"The Verisian is right! We cannot take the fort, as it belongs to Brevoy. It is a perfect excuse for Restov, or any other Brevoy house, to attack us and take Sloboda's treasury from us. We can sleep there, if it is empty, but we cannot 'take' or reclaim it without being labeled invaders."Bachu let's the others make there points and then adds his on opinion, "I agree that the fort is a strong location, but I think it is most important for us to get out of Brevoy as quickly as possible. Once we are out of their territory they are much more likely to leave us alone. As long as we are in their territory any of the rival groups are likely to bother us. We need to get moving whatever our goal is though. This might best be tabled until we are on the road and moving as wherever we decide to head to, at least for now it is all in the same direction."
Anando Verisisi agrees.
"I think master Bachu has a point. A very interesting point. If we go into the Stolen Lands, we not only are outside of Brevoy's authority, but it will be VERY hard for an army to follow us there, without support. All the other river kingdoms would protest from a Brevoy invasion, and they would also contend with the bandits and brigands of the place. Of course, by going that way, WE would have to deal with the bandits, brigands, and other enemies there."what else can you tell us of the King's plans once he got down to the stolen lands...
Anando looks sadly at the distance.
"Besides his elector princes paradise? Well, he wanted to find a good place for a town, his new capital, probably in the strip of land surrounded by the Shrike on three sides where the Greenbelt, Kobold and Bandit lands join, and expand from there, allying and fighting our way from there."==========================================
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As you ready to finish the meeting, the guards appear again.
"Two dozen riders from Restov approach!"
Some minutes afterwards Lord-Mayor Ioseph Sellenius appears, together with half dozen Restov nobles and guild masters, and 20 soldiers, all wearing a black ribbon on their right arm.
"We heard of the assassination of the late King Rupert Surtova, and came to give our respects to him and her daughter. We also want to invite her majesty to a special ceremony in the city, pledge our support for the time she want to continue her father's work, and offer our vault to store the resources she has for the task in the city, as to protect it from thieves."
If tell Rupert is not dead, he will answer.
"We heard from Lord Axhammer Rocknose, the only survivor from the attack, that his majesty and all of the other lords that pledged their support to him were dead. He consulted the oracles in the city, and they all confirm his majesty, and all of the other of his missing followers, are not reachable, and are not in this world anymore. But we hope he is fine, and will come back, and we offer our protection, in the city, until the time of their return."
Ishana has an exceptionally bad feeling about the phrase 'special ceremony' - in her experience, such terms never ended well. She didn't know how to explain that to Rade though, and in all honesty, it was just her experiences speaking to her, experiences honed in a different part of the world, and so she keeps her mouth shut on the topic for now.
Instead, she steps toward the Lord-Mayor, and the riders, with a sly smile. "I wouldn't really call Lord Axhammer a reliable witness though. Remember, this is the only man who did not swear an oath, and was also forbidden from attending the meeting. It's clear the man has a grudge against him, and therefore I wouldn't trust anything he said. It's a bit odd that out of everyone who was present during the attack, only the man who disliked the king, refused to swear an oath and was actually barred from the meeting - was the only person to survive. Furthermore we have in our possession, an item that proves without a doubt that - therefore if Axhammer says that he spoke to the oracles, then either the oracles were mistaken, or he was lying".
Ishana fights to keep a smug look off her face, instead projecting firm determination and belief. The goal was to wrong foot the riders, make them second guess their sources. Doubtless, they came her with a plan in mind, and Ishana had always prided herself in throwing a wrench into most plans she had issue with. Letting her earlier barbs sink home, she then continues in a slightly softer voice.
"Unfortunately, in the interest of full disclosure, the King made a request of my friend Amavin, and as she is no longer here, regrettably, the task falls to me. You see, the King made Amavin promise to look after his child, and therefore I take her security extremely seriously. I have ruled out..." - here Ishana looks around before pointing to the command tent where the previous meeting was being held - "...this tent as a possible security risk. Therefore, I highly recommend that you carry out your pledge of support here in that tent, where I am satisfied of its safety. Any other location that i have not strictly cleared beforehand would be violating Amavin's promise, and as such, would affect my standing with both her and my deity. Therefore, in order to avoid upsetting me and my chosen religion, surely the middle ground could be completing your ceremony here?"
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Lord-Mayor Ioseph Sellenius of Restov clears his throat.
"While we all wish for King Rupert's well being, the oracles in the city have found him... missing. These camps are not a suitable place for his daughter to wait for his return, so we invite her, and all of you, to come into the city, where we will provide you with suitable accommodations while we found out what happened, and decide future actions."
"Depends on where we are. I have, um, "connections" that Sir Axhammer and others might not approve of. I can get us safely out as long as we aren't trapped to begin with."
Alysandra gives a slight quirk of a smile. "Fortunately, the lawbringers - especially Axhammer, who is not, after all, one of us - are not here. But your recommendation is noted - Ishana, your presence would be wel-"
As you ready to finish the meeting, the guards appear again.
"Two dozen riders from Restov approach!"
Some minutes afterwards Lord-Mayor Ioseph Sellenius appears, together with half dozen Restov nobles and guild masters, and 20 soldiers, all wearing a black ribbon on their right arm.
Alysandra's eyebrows lift slightly at the news - "The mountain comes to the prophet," she murmurs - and the sight of the black armbands. Well, she thinks, this was what we wanted, so ... "Porablum," she suggests, "how about if you shift a chair to the side - you know, semi-discrete sort of thing - and start playing some quiet court music for our background?" She knows as well as the other bard that that'll give perfect cover for inspirational performances.
As Sellenius and various nobles and guild representatives arrive, she moves forward to take the lead with the basic and straightforward courtesies. Once those are out of the way, she continues. "Lord Mayor Sellenius, while it is and shall always be a pleasure to receive you, might we inquire as to the reason for your unexpected visit?"
"We heard of the assassination of the late King Rupert Surtova, and came to give our respects to him and her daughter. We also want to invite her majesty to a special ceremony in the city, pledge our support for the time she want to continue her father's work, and offer our vault to store the resources she has for the task in the city, as to protect it from thieves."
With nary a glance at Rade, Stefan, or pretty much any of the others, Alysandra nods understanding. "We are reliably informed that His Majesty the King is not dead, but certainly we thank you for your support." 'We' in this instance is a mightily flexible thing; it could mean Rade as Queen, it could be meant for the missing Rupert, or it could mean for the gathered seconds-in-command.
If tell Rupert is not dead, he will answer. "We heard from Lord Axhammer Rocknose, the only survivor from the attack, that his majesty and all of the other lords that pledged their support to him were dead. He consulted the oracles in the city, and they all confirm his majesty, and all of the other of his missing followers, are not reachable, and are not in this world anymore. But we hope he is fine, and will come back, and we offer our protection, in the city, until the time of their return."
"I wouldn't really call Lord Axhammer a reliable witness though..."
Alysandra carefully does not step on Ishana's entry into the discussion, but waits until she's done. She definitely would not have revealed the source of their information, but crap, what's done is done. "Ah," comes Alysandra's dry response. "Master Rocknose. Well. The ... Hellknight," with subtle emphasis on 'Hell', "is either misinformed, mistaken, or misleading; I cannot speak for his motives. He, however - as well as Restov's oracles - is incorrect. Therefore, while we appreciate your desire to honor his memory, such a ceremony is, if not inappropriate, at least unneeded." Which should cleanly sidestep the 'issue' as to where to hold the stupid thing.
"However, as both Master Verisisi and Captain Garess,"[/b] she gestures to each in turn, indicating not only their survival but their very presence, "have informed us of the King's desires in the matter of the first actions to be taken in the formation of his kingdom, it is our intention, with the approval of Her Highness Rade Surtova," and she gives a dip of a curtsey to Rade, "to move ahead with these plans. As you can see outside," and another gesture indicates the mostly-taken-down camp, "though we have respected your messengers' request to not leave, which was clearly made in order to give you time to be informed and then confer upon us the honor of your presence, we are finalizing the preparations to do so. We do indeed thank you for your offer of protection for both Princess Rade and the Slobodan treasury" -- because naming it as a possession of another nation applies another subtle diplomatic pressure -- "but we intend to depart within the hour. Though our speed may be limited, we have expectations of making Nivakta's Crossing by nightfall, there to consult with those locals and determine our route for the next day."
No need to inform them of plans already made, after all.
Diplomacy 18, +2 Sociable, +2 Seducer's Eyes (if still active), rolled twice and take highest.
#1:
#2:
#3:
Hareth has of course given Azrael's other followers the orders to pack up the camp and be ready to march within the hour... And they are busy doing so.
Hareth himself is remaining with the other cohorts, observing the various negotiations. He has little to add, as it's all been said.
At the news of riders from Restov, Porablum gives Rade's hand a squeeze and whispers, "Be strong. Remember, you are a princess, and the temporary leader of this expedition. We are all behind you."
With a reassuring smile, she follows Alysandra's advice and begins playing some light courtly music.
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"I am glad I find you organized and in good spirits, as we thought you would be disorganized and demoralized. But I must insist you come with us into the city, as an Issian army is approaching, and we can't allow them to get hold of her highness Rade Surtova or her treasury. And we can't let you go into the Stolen Lands, to be caught by the bandits there. We can protect you if you are inside the city walls, but we won't be able to if you remain outside. The Issian troops will be here in a couple hours, so we barely have time to get inside."
"Lord Mayor, I cannot speak completely in Merus' place as I only have his instructions from before their meeting last night, but he did say that he had thrown in with Rupert and felt that he would make a valuable ally to Rostland and their independence. Also, Rupert's plan to break from the Surtova line may be the real reason that army is approaching and keeping Rade here could be playing into Noleski's hand. Think about it, having her loose in the Stolen Lands will divide their attention and prevent them from concentrating all their force here. As for the bandits, this group is far too big and powerful for the likes of them to be anything other than n annoyance. Letting us go now will go great lengths to ensuring a lasting friendship and respect between Rostland and this new kingdom."
"Lord-Mayor -" if they'd been alone, she would have pulled the personal-name gambit ("Ioseph - can I call you Ioseph?"), but with the retinue of six with him, she daren't cut at his authority over them in that manner "- they can only stop us if they want to expose their back to you. If you were as paranoid as Noleski Surtova, would you want to put a city to your rear that is as famed as Restov is for training very combat-capable individuals? I wouldn't. If we retreat into the city, Noleski has his case for war, and will immediately place Restov under siege; is the city ready for that?
"If they are in sight from the top of the North Gate walls, then we have some little time to get out of their way, moreso if you, say, send out a group of cavalry to scout on the line between they and us, which - and this is just a guess - would hinder their scouts in our direction, giving us just a touch extra time, perhaps an hour or so, to get our slowest members well-ahead. And if we escape, you have additional time - months, perhaps - to build up your forces and acquire additional allies, and we have the time to establish King Rupert's kingdom, make changes to increase its strength, and give you a firm ally to your south.
"It is your decision -" and here she looks at the other six Restov leaders who are present "- the decision of all of you - whether or not to try to force us to your heel and begin a war you are not yet ready for, to let us go and hope we get away, or to do a single minor thing that any concerned Free City might do should they see an army marching towards their gate and subtly help us get away. The decision is yours - but I," and here she turns back to Ioseph, to meet his gaze intently, "do indeed hope you help us out. Whatever your decision, I suggest we all move outside the pavilion - I believe they're ready to take it down, which means we must be no more than ten minutes from departure."
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Lord-Mayor Ioseph Sellenius sighs.
"I cannot dare to guess what happens in the mind of our beloved regent of the Dragonscale Throne. But I don't think he fears a war with Restov, and all of Rostland for that matter, and maybe an excuse for it is what he wants. My city is ready for that war, and we will fight it if it is brought to us. But we will not cause it."
He signals his men to leave.
"You are welcome in the city, if you want to. But we will not engage the Issian troops in your behalf. Good luck, and I will you the best."
He and his people mount, and depart towards Restov.
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Anything you want to do before the Issian mounted troops arrive?
Jasrella pulls Hareth and Porablum aside and speaks to them quietly.
I need you two to keep things straight and in the right direction. I do not command you so I am asking you to do this for me. Parablum I want you to stay by Rade, she is going to need all the help she can get. Keep her safe. Hareth I want you to keep the innocent safe, keep them motivated and keep moving. I need you to keep our families safe as well. No matter what happens, do not wait for us. Parablum I am sending five of my people to act as Rade's Personal Guards. The rest of the Argent Draca will act as rear guard. We will continue to break camp as the baggage train moves along. We will keep in sight of you about a mile or so behind and if the need should arise we will stand our ground to give you as much time as we can. Good luck and be safe
Sometime later...
Jasrella watches as the men and women of her command break down the last of the wall. Knowing that those that left before them will have as much time as they can get. Now it was time for her to make their move.
Argent Dracas...Move out. I want to be down the road and out of the site of the city within the hour. let us pick it up...BIG G!!! Set the pace if you would please...
Big G stands taller than almost any other man...his voice deep and true.
Here must we hold, So hearken to my counsel
Felled is our lord slain by foemen on the field
Now we must honor the oaths we made in mead-hall
Now we must shoulder the burden of his shield
Great were his gifts of gold and noble gemstones
High were the halls where the heroes boasted so
He was our lord and loathe am I to leave him
Vow to avenge him by vanquishing the foe
All of the men and women start to sing
For our hands shall be the harder, and our will shall be the wiser And our hearts shall be bolder as our strength must end
Come and follow me to glory, so that when they tell the story
We shall not be forgotten in the halls of men
Big G Continues his song
I will not flee, but farther will I follow
Boldly to battle with broadsword in my hand
More than my life was the love I bore for Bryhtnoth
Fierce will I fight now and so defend this land
Come I from kindred of honor and of courage
Ne'er shall they say that I nothing was at war
Stand with me steadfast staunch against the Vikings
Wield ye your weapons like warriors of yore
The men and women together
For our hands shall be the harder, and our will shall be the wiser
And our hearts shall be bolder as our strength must end
Come and follow me to glory, so that when they tell the story
We shall not be forgotten in the halls of men
His voice still strong and still true...
We stand undaunted the last of the defenders
Stout-hearted men who can strike a mighty blow
We will encourage each other in the war-play
Let them advance now for we shall lay them low
Death is our doom but let us die with honor
All that lives after is what the bards do say
Fight to be worthy of fame in the future
Let them remember the deeds we do today
and once again the men and women of Argent Dracas sing out loud
For our hands shall be the harder, and our will shall be the wiser
And our hearts shall be bolder as our strength must end
Come and follow me to glory, so that when they tell the story
We shall not be forgotten in the halls of men
We shall not be forgotten in the halls of men
At Jasrella's request, Porablum smiles and says, "I intended to, anyway. The girl needs someone she can trust, and she has much to learn. Our other compatriots will join us as well. Their support will be valuable."
"Of course, I can assist with that... " Hareth replies with a cooperative nod.
Hareth gives what are now essentially his followers to command, orders to get the folks moving and to keep a close watch on stragglers and non-combatants.
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A rider from Restov arrives, and lets you know what is happening.
- An army from Issia is coming for the Treasury.
- Restov invites you all into the city, to protect you from them.
- Restov won't attack or interfere with the Issian army, unless they try to enter the city.
- The groups at the camp, lead by "Queen" Rade Surtova, didn't accept the invitation to Restov, and seems like they are going to make a run for it.
- You are all invited into Restov anyway.
=======================
You all finish packing the camp, and have everything ready to move, when you see a group of 5 horseman approaching, flying the Brevoy Banner.
"Stop in the name of the Dragonscale Throne and Regent Noleski Surtova!"
The first of them dismount and approach.
"We have orders of the Regent of the Dragonscale Throne to escort Rade Surtova, Anando Verisisi, and their companions and possessions back to New Stetven. Anyone that doesn't comply with this order is to be accused of treason against the throne, and arrested. Anyone that attack us will be labeled a brigand, and executed on the spot, as the law commands. Will you comply?"
Alysandra is pretty confident of almost everyone else's attitude towards this demand; except for Garess, she'd guess most of the rest would say 'screw you, we're leaving'. Which is about what she's going to say, just not so nastily. She walks out to face the one of them that dismounts and approaches, while the last of the things are packed and the first of the wagons begin to move out; behind her, the dwarf female Freiya Fjar-Bana-Högg watches with quiet wariness.
"Sir," she says coolly but courteously, "Her Highness Rade Surtova, Master Anando Verisisi, and such other diverse individuals as accompany His Majesty Rupert the First, King of Sloboda, are not subject to the orders of the Regent of the Dragonscale Throne, Noleski Surtova. They were, by the Regent's own decree, exempted from his command and we, by dint of being his servants, allies, and entourage, are equally exempted from decrees, laws, regulations, and assorted other issues declared from the Dragonscale Throne and/or by its regent - such exemption being recognized by all civilized nations and individuals.
"Now," she continues, "while I agree that anyone who attacks you might well be labeled a brigand, one might wonder at your threats to declare those who don't comply with your - entirely improper - order to be traitors, and those who disagree more strenuously to be brigands and to be executed immediately. One might think it wise to, perhaps, take you into custody until such time as your offensive and aggravating threats can be taken up with the Surtova Regent in a more diplomatic manner. However, we are not one to start a ruckus needlessly, so we shall continue to do that which our king has instructed us to do - and that is to depart.
"Now, should you at some time in the future have a rightful and legal request to make of His Majesty, I am certain he will be glad to listen, should he find he has the time to spare from assembling his new domain. Until that time, however, we request that you depart forthwith and cease annoying us with your bluster and noise."
Glad the 15 counts, not the 1. :P :)
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The soldier seems taken aback at your answer.
"But... mylady! I am only conveying the orders of my liege, and I am no one to question the validity of them! We have orders to secure the treasury, and don't let it fall into Restov or Bandits hands. I beg you to wait here for our General, Lord Maximilian Surtova, and you can discuss your points with him. He should arrive an hour after midday."
The rider looks around, at all of you.
"Please?"
Alysandra, with a roll of her eyes and a glance around, notices the reaction Rade has to the General's name. While she can place him in the family, she doesn't really know his reputation - but Rade's reaction is enough of a cue for her to go on. "My apologies to you for your lack of discretion" - by which she means the ability to decide what to do in a particular situation, should it be not what their superiors believe it to be, though her patience is clearly wearing a bit thin - "and my apologies to your master for the additional effort he may have to go through, but we are only obeying the orders of our liege lord, who is, as you might imagine, significantly more important to our future health, happiness, and prosperity than his cousins, whether Regent or General, might be. Perhaps, if you race back to the General's headquarters, you might give him word in time that he and some few of his men might advance to speak with us without unduly straining his communications with the forces under his command. But his concerns are not ours."