On the 1st of Erastus, 4710, five adventurers have boldly taken up one of the four charters granted by the Swordlords of Restov; to explore and map the area of the Stolen Lands known as the Greenbelt, and to rid the area of bandit activity.
A dangerous land of ancient magic, lost colonies, wilderness and mystical Fey, these land's have always been referred to as 'Stolen' by the people of Brevoy. Now, the Swordlords of Restov seek to secure their southern borders in preparation for a potential war with their northern neighbour Issia... For the Rogarvian line has disappeared, and not all of Brevoy recognises the right of the Surtova's to rule in their stead. In a brilliant tactical and political move, the Swordlords have granted the rights to explore and potentially claim these lands to trusted and capable individuals, who will surely prove strong allies in the coming conflict, and at the very least deter bandit activity.
In truth, these land's have never truly been claimed by civilisation. The last attempt to colonise these lands was made by Taldor, and the expedition failed drastically; the harsh wilderness and feral animals driving out the colonists; who whisper that other, darker powers kept the Stolen Land's from them...
The group of strangers, bonded together by their mission and their charter, are currently heading east-by-southeast along the last major road this far south in Rostland. As they travel, talking amongst themselves and admiring the contrast between the civilised lands and the Stolen Lands they can see in the distance, they think back to their meeting with the Lord Mayor of Restov, and his final words over a fine dinner to the group.
As agents of the Swordlord's of Restov, you are to head directly along the south road towards a small trading post, run by a man known as Oleg. This will provide you with a somewhat safe haven to begin your explorations.
The Lord Mayor had looked at you all as you left his mansion, and just as he made his farewell, he had said-
It is your honour and your privilege to serve Rostland, and indeed Brevoy, in this stead. But make no mistake. These Stolen Lands are a grim and dangerous place. Some of you may lose your lives there. Some of you may lose yourselves... Blessings of Erastil upon ye, aye, and Iomedae too.
You are glad to finally be on the road, eager to test yourself and your steel out of the safe confines of the duelling school.
Your uncle, always knowledgeable; was the one who whispered to you that the Swordlord's were looking for capable men to make an expedition into the Stolen Lands. Your uncle warned you that the expedition could be dangerous, but you took the Charter anyway, your uncles old friend Gregor ensuring you were given priority over other hopefuls. Stanislaw told you he was also going to be serving the Swordlord's, on a mission in the north of Brevoy. He promised he'd visit you in a year's time, and to expect him in the month of Erastus, 4711.
Your father was less pleased with the news, and he embraced you as though it would be the last time as you left. Your brother wished you well, and promised he would save money to come visit you in a few month's time.
Your thoughts drift back to your father, the day he handed you the Charter and your brother's longsword. It is indeed a worthy blade, well-weighted and clearly frequently used.
Your father was a broken man when you left, drinking himself into a stupor as he dismissed you. He begged for you to send for him if you came into fortunes and holdings of your own in the Stolen Lands. He was not the strong man you remembered, and you were not the skinny boy he remembered, but he embraced you as you left your family house for the last time, and finally acknowledged your worth. He whispered
I am so proud of you, my fine son. Bring honour to our family, and to the Inheritor.
Your heart is light as you travel, for your deeds and sacrifice may have won your house an alliance with the people of Southern Rostland; allies that House Orlavsky will surely need to stand against the power of Surtova. Lord Poul himself came to honour your sacrifice along with your mother and father, and he told you that he dearly hopes you survive the chaos that is the Stolen Lands.
We have always been allies of the true rulers of Brevoy; the Rogarvians. Tensions between Surtova and Orlavsky are increasing; as I refuse to recognise their rule as anything other than a regency. this move will help cement an alliance between our house and the Swordlords of Restov. I am in your debt, Sir Edric. Lord Poul had said, giving you a fine banner of your house- a black eagle against a gold field.
Carry this banner with honour, and bring the law and justice of our house down upon the heads of any heathens who cross your path, noble Knight.
Your prophecies have convinced you that your own fate lies south in the Stolen Lands; and the hint of a clue to whatever calamity befell Aroden. Other deities now answer your prayers and grant you insights into the world, but only when Aroden's Star is visible do you truly feel connected once more. The divine power within you is surely the clearest sign of all; that some force in the universe wishes you to pursue your prophecies and keep your faith to Aroden.
It was somewhat difficult convincing the Swordlord's that you deserved to take up the charter, but you proved both persuasive and tenacious; and the Swordlord's admitted a practitioner of divine magic and a prophetess could be useful to the expedition.
Just before you set off to the south, a single page fell from your notes and old prophecies, seemingly having torn itself away from the rest of your book. Picking it up, you read over what you wrote in Azlanti, all those dozens of years ago.
The Fey-Child of the Stars shall lose herself,
Once the Eye is shattered, so too shall the Star-Child shatter,
The Seekers of Awe shalt restore the Fey-Child,
With the aid of the progeny of the Red Dragon,
Then the Fey-Child shall travel into that which was Stolen,
To grant peace to a haunted reflection of his creator.
You believe your ancestor's would be proud of you as you undertake a vital mission for the good of Southern Brevoy; Rostland. You dearly hope that this expedition will help the Surtova's be defeated. You also hope to find your father, and you recall the Lord Mayor's word's on the subject-
Your father was acting as our agent within the Greenbelt, the area we are sending you to. He had been investigating a powerful bandit lord in the area, but he had not contacted us for several months. we believe he was captured or killed by the bandits my dear... I am sorry for your loss...
You refused to believe your father was beyond help or dead, and your fair beauty hides great sorrow; sorrow you only let others see in your eyes, from time to time.
You are familiar with Oleg's, and you have even met him and his wife Svetlana a few times as you travelled the southern border. They are good, honest folk; and they have taken a shine to you, always providing you with a meal on the house, and any news from the hunters about your father.
Your about a days march away from Oleg's currently. Some of you are mounted and some of you are on foot I believe.
Dotting for alias.
I know the man that we are going to meet. Oleg, he is a good and honest fellow, and he and his wife have always shown me kindness in the past. While I know little south of his post, we should be able to take some rest there, Vaysh says.
She has seemed hopeful for the past few days, since your group left for the Stolen Lands, but the songs that she has sung to the group at night have been sorrowful.
Perhaps Oleg will have more information of my father.
Malthir strides confidently towards this new land and the trading outpost. He seems at odds with the rustic background of your travels. At times during the day the sun reflects off the full glory of his breastplate and shield. The armor is polished to an almost chrome finish with a large embossed longsword emblazzoned on the chest as well as on the shield. It seems like it has never seen battle, but you have seen it up close, and there are marks of battle on it.
He seems a creature of routine, meticulously cleaning himself and polishing his armor each night for the day ahead.
Vaysh, you have noticed Malthir looking at you oddly out of the corner of your eye several times. You have talked superficially several times and you know each other to be followers of Iomedae, but you can't help but get the impression that he is watching you in particular for some reason.
He suddenly breaks the silence with his quiet, deep voice:
Vaysh, what are the folk of this area like who are not invloved in banditry? Are there many of them, simple farmers and hunters or have most been driven away? Can we expect them to stand up to the bandits that infest this land? Do you think that Oleg will be willing to help us?
The few folk in the area who are not involved in Banditry tend to be hunters and trappers, and a few loggers, who work in the Greenbelt. They tend to be tough, rugged and self-reliant men, but friendly; usually. They have no desire to encounter bandits for the most part, preferring to simply be left alone.
The pale skinned gnome rides quietly along with her new companions, an expression of something akin to either boredom or serenity resting across her face as she glances around, her attention occasionally resting with unusual intensity on some seemingly mundane detail as she whispers something to herself. A winged eye carved from pale wood hangs around her neck, and the warm traveling clothes she wears seem to be quite significantly out of fashion.
"Oleg," She can be heard to whisper quietly, when she hears the exchange between Malthir and Vaysh, followed by something in Azlanti that might be a question judging from the inflection. Urging her pony closer to the pair she leans forward, though seems to be waiting for Vaysh to respond to Malthir before speaking herself.
** spoiler omitted **
** spoiler omitted **
Keeping to the rear of the group, Casimir walks quietly along the road, the links of his chain shirt clinking softly underneath his cloak. This tall, slender youth is handsome to look upon, with his shoulder-length black hair tied neatly back to show his fair face and bright blue eyes.
A slender Aldori blade hangs in a scabbard from his belt besides a pair of sharp daggers. Each night, he passes the time beside the fire sharpening the edges with the whetstone he keeps in his belt pouch.
Regarding each of his companions in turn, Casimir recalls the teachings of his uncle Stanislaw - "Always learn as much as possible about your allies. If you do not know their motivations, you can never be certain that their next stroke will not strike you."
So, this is to be our company. A remarkable band, to be sure. And most certainly capable. I pity the bandits who cross our path. Well spoken too - I have rarely seen such a display of polite etiquette as I did at the Mayor's banquet. But who are they really - and what moves them. Watch carefully, as uncle Stani would say.
Malthir Al' Dagon - Humble servant of Iomedae, eager to save the common folk from the bandits. No stranger to battle either, from the way he carries that sword - Aroden's sword. His brother was a known factor - this one is an unknown.
Edric - Sir Orlavsky, what a sight you are, up there on your mighty steed. You carry your family crest proudly, sir knight. "High above", indeed. No doubt about where your loyalties lie - but what way will those whom you serve steer you, I wonder? I must make it a point never to be on the business end of that lance.
Fenna - Stange, mysterious Fenna. I would give a great deal to know why the Swordlords picked one such as her to go along with our group. No doubt about her power though. I wonder what it is she scribbles in that book of hers?
Vaysh - Sweet gods, I'll have to concentrate to keep my mind sharp around this one. Such beauty! Put her in the right dress, and she would be the envy of every noblewoman in New Stetven. And her magic - how it flows from her. Now I know what uncle Stani was talking about, how you have to bring it out from within. She seems at home here in the rough country. I wonder what makes her sing those sad songs?
This will be an interesting expedition.
That evening though, after the are all settled, he would get down to business around a low burning fire.
So there are a number of things I believe we must discuss. To start with we must trust each other or we are destined to fail. How do we build that trust, I think we should begin by learning about why each of us is here, going to this dangerous land. I will start since I decided to bring this up.
He pulls our his sword and drives it into the dirt in front of him staring at it. I believe that Iomedae choose me for this. Most of my life has revolved around duty. Not to Iomedae, but to my family. My father schemed to increase our status and our wealth, but it eventually failed him.
Malthir looks over to Casimir's sword and then looks him in the face,
You probably knew my brother. He was a good man, but he also lost his way in my father's vision until he died, in of all things...a duel, trying to defend our families honor. What a waste...but what I discovered from my duty, which was initially to help my Brother Aroden by being placed in the temple of Iomedae, ended up being true purpose. What is that purpose you ask? To help the people of Brevoy from themselves I believe. I hear the rumors, the ones that may eventually bring our nation to civil war. But if by what we forge here, in these so called "Stolen Lands", we can both bring law and justice to this lawless land as well as possibly divert what may be to come for the people of Brevoy, then that is my purpose. Like it or not, that is why I come hear, and what I pledge to do!
Upon leaving Restov Edric rode at the head of the party proudly displaying his family's banner. As the city faded from view he dismounted and began to walk, slowing his pace to fall back in with the rest of group. For the first day of the trip he remained mostly silent, replying to questions but offering very little in conversation.
I shall be glad to arrive at the trading post. I find the lack of mountains in this area unsettling.
Vaysh’s long reddish hair trails down her back; her locks run along the simple but sturdy clothes of a woman who works with her hands that she wears. While the rest of her clothes seem to have been handmade for Vaysh, her cloak is far too large for her slim frame. Vaysh’s earth tone clothing seems well cared for despite its well used nature, the gray cloak she keeps close to her seems far more worn than the rest of her outfit. In her belt, Vaysh has a dagger tucked away that she has been noticed to gaze upon with her deep green eyes while resting.
Vaysh’s left eye has a birthmark around it. The mark is in the shape of a sword with the hilt wreathed with a starburst, and reminds those familiar with the faith of Iomedae of her symbol. Vaysh often has her hair fall to the left and obscure one of her eyes to cover the mark when in strange company or in town, but out on the trail she has tied her hair back, allowing all to see her mark.
Vaysh is no young girl, but instead a young woman, already old enough that in many parts she should have been married and with child by her age. Her looks are beautiful, and so far she has seemed dutiful in this trip, something else must have kept her away from marriage.
She often has a smile for her traveling companions, but seems a bit withdrawn during times of peace and quiet. During nights around camp, she has asked each of her companions a bit about themselves, and seems keen on learning more. Thus far she has offered her services in aiding those that accompany her, quite willing to help cook for her companions, though perhaps it is not her strong suit. Whenever her cooking does not come out, she is apologetic to the rest of her companions and makes promises that she will do better.
With a quick smile to Malthir, Vaysh answers his query:
Mister Al’Dagon, my family has lived in near these Stolen Lands for years. Svetlana and Oleg have seen me grow from a little girl into who I am today, though I do not see them often. My family has always been kind to those that have come to our stead seeking shelter, food, or simple company.
I think that you will find such kindness often extended by those in this land; we each have so little that to refuse help or kindness to others is uncommon. However, the people here are generally simple and independent; many have come out this far to avoid those in power.
The bandits of the area are generally a known quantity and an accepted problem. I am certain that the hunters and trappers that we shall find south of Oleg’s will show us kindness, but I do not believe that many of them will rally to our banner. Perhaps, as we begin to succeed we shall find allies among them, but I believe many of them would fear what would befall them if they were to act against organized banditry.
I pray to The Inheritor that the residents of the land shall great us with the kindness that I have seen out of them so many times, but part of me worries that they shall see our presence as interference of outsiders. I would not doubt that some will turn away from us, believing that if civilization is brought to these Stolen Lands, that the lands will finally be stolen from them.
I think that it may be best for us to focus on commonalities we have with the residents of these lands, and use those to forge friendships with them. May Iomedae guide us.
Her answer finished, Vaysh becomes aware of the pony and gnome that have moved closer to hear the conversation, and passes a smile between them. I know not what it is, but there is something about Miss Thistlewade that would raise the hackles on my dogs, Vaysh thinks briefly, then her thoughts wander away to what she has left behind once again.
I have similar purpose to you, Mister Al’Dagon. I come because I believe that it is the will of Iomedae that I do so. For a long time, my family has watched and fought against the darkness that has moved through Rostland. While there are some that no longer welcome us in Brevoy proper, we have not forgotten nor forsaken our duty. I know only a small corner of these lands that we go into, but I have seen the rise of banditry and the decay of kindness because of it.
I know not if any of us can truly say these lands have been stolen from one nation or another, but they have been stolen from hope, honesty, and kindness. The years that I have spent here, I know that the tales that I have heard have changed recently. The bandits seem to be more powerful in stories related over the hearth at my home by travelers, and many suspect those that they do not know. I cannot judge what has driven so many men to banditry, I am certain that for some there is a taint that lurks in their hearts, but I hope that some can be guided to a better path. Perhaps with their aid we can better these lands.
For a moment, Vaysh seems as if she will continue on, but then she bites her lower lip and nods.
That is why I have come.
Now that she is finished talking, Vaysh takes another sip of the soup she made for the evening, and a slight grimace crosses her face. Mother would do better! Maybe I have spent too long with Heart and my brothers, and not enough time learning the ways she would teach me.
Realizing she missed something vital in what Mister Al'Dagon said, Vaysh curses herself silently, looks to him with her saddened green eyes and states, I am sorry for your loss Mister Al'Dagon.
Vaysh thinks to herself, I cannot get too caught up answering someones question that I miss the most important parts of their statements!
Religion on the symbol Fenna has
Nobility untrained to figure folks sympathies out. Would take 10 if that would figure it out for me, but don’t know.
Edric presents his sword in the same fashion as Malthir.
Well spoken Malthir, it is in trust that true bonds of friendship and loyalty are built. My purpose on this quest is two-fold. First I too share your goal of bring stability to these lands. The Knight's of Eagle's Watch have always strove to provide peace and safety to those who are without the means to provide it for themselves.
Second I am here as a representative of the noble House Orlavsky, sent to assist in securing these lands in hopes of proving to the Swordlords of Rostland that not all of the Houses of Brevoy are against them.
I know of the rumors of which you speak and I fear that they are more than rumors. As the only House to refuse to acknowledge House Surtova's claim on the Dragon Scale throne we have felt the tension with Brevoy grow to dangerous levels. The times ahead will be difficult for our nation but it is my hope that our actions here will, in some small way, help the people of Brevoy weather the coming storm.
Spoiler:
You have not heard of the Al'Dagon family, but you have only heard of the major houses. Of Orlavsky, you know only that they are usually staunch allies of the Rogarvian house- but the disposition of any house is mostly set by their lead noble; and only for as long as he has the strength to steer the ship of his house.
While the conversation continues on, Vaysh breaks out a book and begins recording in it with the supplies that she purchased in town. As she listens and writes she stares intently at those sitting around the fire with her, each of them in turn. She also looks out to the animals that travel with them, and when her gaze falls upon Caras a wistful smile crosses her face.
Vaysh looks over at Malthir and asks, Can I get you anything else, Mister Al’Dagon?
Edric presents his sword in the same fashion as Malthir.
Well spoken Malthir, it is in trust that true bonds of friendship and loyalty are built. My purpose on this quest is two-fold. First I too share your goal of bring stability to these lands. The Knight's of Eagle's Watch have always strove to provide peace and safety to those who are without the means to provide it for themselves.
Second I am here as a representative of the noble House Orlavsky, sent to assist in securing these lands in hopes of proving to the Swordlords of Rostland that not all of the Houses of Brevoy are against them.
I know of the rumors of which you speak and I fear that they are more than rumors. As the only House to refuse to acknowledge House Surtova's claim on the Dragon Scale throne we have felt the tension with Brevoy grow to dangerous levels. The times ahead will be difficult for our nation but it is my hope that our actions here will, in some small way, help the people of Brevoy weather the coming storm.
Sir Edric,
It sounds like our goals are very similar, even if not for the same reasons. I am glad to meet such a travelling companion and look forward to standing by you in the field of battle.Malthir extends his arm in a jesture of friendship.
Now there is the matter of the watch. I brought a couple of sunrods for this very reason. I will take first watch but we need to set up a regular watch schedule. Who volunteers to take the remaining 3 watches? We can keep one person out of the rotation each night so they can get a solid night sleep or just split it up into 5 watches? I will leave out a sunrod for the other watches in case anything happens, just strike it on the ground and it will illuminate the area!
While the conversation continues on, Vaysh breaks out a book and begins recording in it with the supplies that she purchased in town. As she listens and writes she stares intently at those sitting around the fire with her, each of them in turn. She also looks out to the animals that travel with them, and when her gaze falls upon Caras a wistful smile crosses her face.
Vaysh looks over at Malthir and asks, Can I get you anything else, Mister Al’Dagon?
Malthir tastes the dinner Vaysh has prepared and does his best not to grimace. hopefully, this part of the journey will get better he thinks to himself A wry smile comes across his face before he answers in return. No, there is nothing else, I appreciate your sympathy though, but we must each carry our burdens as Iomedae seems fit.
Vaysh smiles at Malthir, whether she notices his grimace or not, she continues berating herself silently, I am willing to take any of the rotations that you deem, though I find it best if I am able to sleep solidly rather than interrupted. I apologize, but without the reasonable amount of sleep, I find that I am mostly useless the next day. If it is too much to ask, I am sure that given enough time I can adjust to any necessary change.
Could both of you please give me your input of what really happened with Malthir's brother before I post my reply to Malthir. I have my own ideas to what Casimir knows about the death of Aroden, but since this is a significant part of Malthir's background and an obvious opportunity for a sub-plot, I thought I'd get your feedback first.
What I'm looking for is:
- How well did Casimir know Aroden? Close friend/classmate from the same school/casual acquaintance/only by reputation?
- Was Casimir present at the duel, or the events leading up to it or have he only heard about it.
- What kind of a man was Aroden? Did he maintain his high morals, or was he corrupted by drink, women or pride?
- What is known about the man who killed Aroden?
- Was it a fair fight, or was there foul play? Was Aroden set up?
** spoiler omitted **
Was Casimir present at the duel, or the events leading up to it or have he only heard about it.
same as above, feel free ot ad lib some of the events if you want since Malthir doesn't know the details, only that his father ensured him that it was a fair fight, at least that is what he was told by the school
What kind of a man was Aroden? Did he maintain his high morals, or was he corrupted by drink, women or pride?
He was a man like any other basically good, but not perfect, but his weakness was definitely his pride
What is known about the man who killed Aroden?
He was also from the school, but he was a more senior student named Kalas. The school, like many others, was filled with young men and women that ended up dividing between two main groups of friends, Aroden on one side, Kalas on the other. Aroden was charismatic, like Kalas. Karas disliked the attention that Aroden was getting from many of the younger students who looked up to him. Karas was much more cruel tha Aroden, but in the end Karas was probably the best students at the time.
Was it a fair fight, or was there foul play? Was Aroden set up?
The fight was fair per se, but Aroden's chance was very slim, you don't know many students, if any, that could hav beaten Karas. As I mentioned, Malthir doesn't know the details, but feel free to think about what would have caused Aroden to really fight this student, one as callous and maybe even evil as Karas with almost no chance of winning. Karas would have used his honor, or the honor of another student to get him to do it. Maybe you can come up with the "official statement" vs. the real story. It will be fun over time the play out. Maybe you realize though that to tell Malthir the whole truth now might cause him to leave and seek revenge if there is enough reason, but as I mentioned, I don't mind if you run with it a some, will make it more interesting.
** spoiler omitted **** spoiler omitted **...
Nothing that you know about for sure, there have always been rumours that the blood of dragons flows through Rogarvian veins, but they have never been verified. Sorry, didn't see that spoiler until now.
Prophecy isn't my strong point, but I hope you liked Fenna's one :)
After Malthir, Vaysh and Sir Edric have spoken, Casimir also steps forward. He draws his blade in a measured movement and places it with the other two.
Three strong blades and three strong warriors to wield them. And magic both divine and arcane to back them up. We make a fine company, and I have no doubt that we shall prove well suited to meet the challenges that face us. The Swordlords have the same trust in our abilities, and I embrace the chance to prove them right. I am not a man of such such noble ideals or devotions as the rest of you, I'm afraid, but we share the aspiration to bring civilization to these lands. It is a mighty task, one at which many others have tried and failed. What better purpose could a student of an Aldori dueling school ask for?
He regards Malthir and the longsword before him.
I did indeed know your brother, Malthir Al'Dagon. Although he and I trained at different schools, he had made quite a reputation for himself in Restov. I was pleased to learn that we had both been selected for this expedition, and I was greatly saddened by his death.
Casimir pauses a moment, as if to consider his words, then continues.
In fact, I was with him on the night he was challenged to the duel that cost him his life. We were out celebrating our upcomming adventure with classmates from our respective schools, when Karas, another student from Garaleus’ academy, came up to our table with a bunch of his friends in tow. Karas had no less of a reputation than your brother, and the rumors around the ale-houses and dormetories was that he had been furious about Arodens place on the expedition. Apparantly, he felt that he deserved that place.
This was confirmed by the greeting he gave to Aroden that night. I shall not repeat the words to you, for fear that you should turn around and head back to Restov to challenge him yourself. Suffice to say, he hinted at how your brothers place on the expedition had been secured in a way that no man of honor could have ignored - least of all Aroden Al'Dagon. Had it not been for the presense of cooler heads on both sides, they might have drawn steel right then and there.
It was a trick, of course. Karas had choosen both time and place well, and he knew that his words would almost certainly make Arodens temper boil over. There was little doubt that Karas was the better swordsman, but Arodens pride would not permit him to retract a challenge made before such a crowd, and with such reason. I suspect Karas hoped to take your brothers place once he had slain him. He did not count on you, it would seem. Personally, I much prefer you by my side instead of him.
Casimir retrieves his sword and wipes the blade on his cloak before settling down against a tree. Retrieving his whetstone, he starts to hone the already razor sharp edge.
A watch rotation would certainly be sensible. I suggest that our spellcasters take turn on first and last watch. That way, their rest is not broken during the night. We warriors can take the darkest hours. I can take the watch after midnight, if you agree.
He hold up the signal horn he carries in his belt.
The watch can have this close. It is a fast and effective way of rousing the entire camp, if there is need. I suggest saving the sunrods for emergencies. The campfire should provide enough light under normal circumstances.
Casimir falls silent, and for a long while, only the hiss of his whetstone against the steel can be heard. Then, without raising his gaze from his task, he adds:
By the way. Those who count me among their friends call me simply Casimir - I hope you will do the same.
With pledges and introductions mostly made, the first day of Erastus passes uneventfully, and the group share a meal over a campfire.
The next morning, the group officially leaves the borders of Brevoy and enters the northern tip of the Greenbelt, still following the South Rostland road which extends a little into the Greenbelt itself. The 2nd of Erastus is a beautiful and sunny summer's day, with fluffy white clouds soaring lazily across a blue sky. The terrain around this area is mostly flat grassland with a few small hills and minor areas of forest.
It is about mid-day and the sun is at its zenith as you begin to make out Oleg's in the distance, as you crest a small hill.
You hear a cry coming from somewhere nearby; it sounds like someone is in pain.
The cry is in Taldane, saying Oh gods, somebody help me!. It's coming from a small area of forest about 60 feet to the South of you, off the main road.
You can hear the snapping and gnashing of vicious-sounding teeth.
You also think you can make out some kind of low, growling noise, coming from the same place.
Vaysh starts watching Casimir, but as he begins to detail the occurrence around Malthir’s brother, she switches her gaze to watch the paladin. The loss that he has suffered strikes close to her heart, and sympathy for Malthir stirs in her eyes. Does it help, Mister Al’Dagon? she chokes out, clearly caught up in emotions of her own. A look of surprise crosses her face at the sound of her own voice, and Vaysh clears her throat to state it a bit more clearly, Does knowing how it all happened help?
Her green eyes have a weakness and a pleading in them, something in the tale that Casimir has related clearly has struck some cords with the young woman. For a time, Vaysh wraps the oversized grey cloak around her, seeming comforted by its heavy presence. Father, please still be alive…please father.
As conversation drifts back to the order of watches; Vaysh stands up and begins busying herself cleaning up after dinner, and ensuring that everything is ready for a quick breakfast in the morning. While Vaysh cleans, she speaks during a lull in the conversation around the fire, I must say, I feel a bit out of place among such fine warriors. I grew listening to stories of knights and the Sword Lords, but have had little dealings with either until recently. Myself, I feel that mayhaps I am a bit less than the company I travel with. You honorable men all seem to have trained for such an excursion. You have all learned how to fight, though each of you seems to approach such matters differently.
Myself, I am have grown up on a farm, and find myself among all of you. To see the three of you, it is like walking with legends in the making. I hope that I live up to the company that I am keeping, she finishes talking, biting her lip after realizing she was rambling. She looks over at her companions to notice that once again Malthir seems to be looking at her expectantly. What is it that he wants? Mayhaps I am just imagining it, but I notice his eyes upon me like he waits for me to do something.
Well, all of you should get to bed, I will wake Mister Al’Dagon after I am done with my watch. A quizzical look crosses Vaysh’s face, and she turns back to the group from her mule Caras, When exactly am I done?
Perception
Perception:
Yeah, I see nothing.
Now, illuminated by fire and starlight, Fenna seems much more at ease, a slight smile on her lips as she listens to the introductions of those around her. Once a lull in conversation allows her, she speaks up for herself, "It reassures my heart to know that two fine servants of The Herald will be aiding our cause, it has been long since I have shared the company of those of the faith. My own reasons for heading into the Stolen Lands are not very dissimilar from your own, there are things in these lands that are not as there are meant to be, and it is my desire to set them right." with a glance into the heavens above, she pauses for a moment before smiling around at her companions, "I believe that we are each meant to be here, that this is the first step of many towards restoring the proper order."
Later, as the conversation develops, she looks with sympathy to Malthir at the mention of his brother, an understanding of the pain of loss apparent in her eyes, though she remains silent on the subject.
"As much as I would appreciate undisturbed sleep," she adds to Casimir’s suggestion, "I may be better suited to a night-time watch than yourselves… my eyes are somewhat more sensitive to starlight than a human’s."
Vaysh starts watching Casimir, but as he begins to detail the occurrence around Malthir’s brother, she switches her gaze to watch the paladin. The loss that he has suffered strikes close to her heart, and sympathy for Malthir stirs in her eyes. Does it help, Mister Al’Dagon? she chokes out, clearly caught up in emotions of her own. A look of surprise crosses her face at the sound of her own voice, and Vaysh clears her throat to state it a bit more clearly, Does knowing how it all happened help?
On Vaysh to pick up on something else going on with her beneath her being nice. You can tell me if it is that obvious that she is upset about something...
Casimir, thank you for your words, you have extended a kindness to me by sharing the tale. Maybe another time you will tell me more about this Karas, but for now it changes nothing, the inheiritor expects what the inheiritor expects. Vaysh, I'm afraid that it doesn't really help, the fact that my brother died over such a matter! Better he died in battle, at least trying to make a difference.He gets up and walks off into the darkness and doesn't return for about two hours to relieve Vaysh.
Vaysh, please don't think you upset me. I spent my whole life looking up to my brother. Maybe it will just take me longer to leave it behind than I thought. You had better get some sleep.
Now, illuminated by fire and starlight, Fenna seems much more at ease, a slight smile on her lips as she listens to the introductions of those around her. Once a lull in conversation allows her, she speaks up for herself, "It reassures my heart to know that two fine servants of The Herald will be aiding our cause, it has been long since I have shared the company of those of the faith. My own reasons for heading into the Stolen Lands are not very dissimilar from your own, there are things in these lands that are not as there are meant to be, and it is my desire to set them right." with a glance into the heavens above, she pauses for a moment before smiling around at her companions, "I believe that we are each meant to be here, that this is the first step of many towards restoring the proper order."
Later, as the conversation develops, she looks with sympathy to Malthir at the mention of his brother, an understanding of the pain of loss apparent in her eyes, though she remains silent on the subject.
"As much as I would appreciate undisturbed sleep," she adds to Casamir’s suggestion, "I may be better suited to a night-time watch than yourselves… my eyes are somewhat more sensitive to starlight than a human’s."
Malthir extends his arm in friendship to each group member and with a nod sealing an unspoken bond between each of them.
Well met Fenna, it seems we all share a common bond. It is good that we have at least one among us who sees well during the night! Who knows what we might encounter during our travels and we may not always be able to have a fire.
We are indeed a fine company. I fine comfort to now know the people I travel with and joy to know we share the same goals. I have no objections to joining the watch schedule and also offer my own sunrods to the group."
Then next day before setting out Edric offers his mount to Vaysh.
"I hope I do not offend you with my offer. it is the custom of my family. I know that to be chosen for this mission you must be strong in both spirit and body but I can not abide the though of lady walking while there is a horse with out a rider."
Suddenly, Casimir stops and looks to the woods south of the road.
Did you hear that? It sounds like someone in pain, crying out for help!
Casimir drops his pack and cloak to the ground, and draws his sword, prepared to move into the woods as soon as the others have a chance to react.
What are you talking about I don't hear anything? Be cautious it might be an ambush!
As a precaution he will start to put his shield on and draw a javelin.
Do you need initiative? JIC
"Indeed! I hear it." Fenna agrees with Casimir, then rides her pony to the edge of the woods before climbing to the ground and peering through the trees.
As you are 30 feet from the edge of the woods, a man bursts out of the woods, screaming at the top of his lungs for help, and waving frantically. He begins to run towards you, and you get a brief look at the man.
He is in his mid 30's, stocky and well built. A longbow is held in his hands, and he wears leather armour underneath clothes dyed green and brown- he looks like a hunter.
As he runs towards you, you notice the front of his clothes are stained red with blood. Just as you notice this, with a loud snarl and a yipping bark, a canine creature of some sort leaps out of the undergrowth behind him, soaring through the air as the beast tries to run down its prey.
The creature is a fair bit larger than a dog, and bigger than you Fenna (Medium sized). It has heavy whiskers on its face and its fur is a dark red colour, and its long tail sweeps out behind it. Its motions remind you of a cat hunting, despite its size and canine physique.
This beast is a Blood Cougar, a particularily vicious breed of Brush Thylacine. They are tenacious, lone wolf hunters with powerful jaws and keen eyes.
If domesticated, they can be trained as loyal and capable pets, but they have claimed the lives of many hunters. Blood Cougar's have a particularily strong constitution and it often takes a skilled hunter to bring one down. They are also extremely cunning creatures when a fight is on their terms.
The creature coils, ready to charge and pounce on its victim. Seeing you, it hesitates briefly but continues to chase the hunter.
Initiative Rolls
Fenna-
Casimir-
Vaysh-
Sir Edric-
"Hunter"-
Dog/Cat-Like Creature-
Ordered-
Sir Edric- 19
Malthir- 15
Casimir- 13
Fenna- 12
Vaysh- 12
"Hunter"- 6
The Situation- Round 1
His Aldori blade gleaming in the sun, Casimir rushes the dog-like creature and strikes at it.
Combat rolls:
Attack roll +8 (if charging)/+6 (normal attack)
Damage roll
Vaysh smiles towards Fenna, and the rest of the group. It is a pleasure to meet you and know your intent, Miss Thistlewade. I have seen the symbol of Aroden around her neck, and she speaks of intent to make things right. I do not know why something sits wrong with me about her, but I shall not judge her based only on my discomfort and childishness.
Vaysh looks after Malthir heading off into the darkness, and then back to the rest of her companions. Excuse me, I’m going to see if he is all right, she says as she moves after Malthir. I will be back shortly for my watch. Vaysh moves out of the light, her reddish hair trailing in the fire light, gleaming in the sympathetic hue.
Mister Bodevski, please do not think me too forward, but I did notice on the trail yesterday that the bag you carry weighs heavily upon you. I can offer Caras’ back as a place that you can place some of your things. I too know the burden of an overfilled pack, but when I have spoken with him, Caras has always been kind enough to share my load, in exchange for fruit.
Vaysh smiles towards Sir Orlavsky, and her light laughter fills the air for a few moments. No offense is taken at this most kind gesture from you; however, you are too kind Sir Orlavsky, kind and mistaken. Though, I believe that you are more kind than mistaken in your statement. I am no ‘Lady’ but just a good woman, born and bred on this land. I thank you for the offer of your powerful charger, but I am willing to walk the path, as most of us do. Mayhaps another time I shall take you up on this offer, but for now my feet are used to the work.
There is something that you can do for me though, mayhaps a secret you have been keeping to yourself, Vaysh says with a playful and joking smile upon her face. You travel with a wonderful destrier, but as of yet, I have not yet been introduced to your boon companion. I have introduced myself to both ends, and yet neither has replied back to me with anything but requests of hay and apples or signs of too much of them. The smile on Vaysh’s face once again gives way to playful laughter.
Vaysh ties Caras off to the closest bush and goes to investigate with the rest of her companions. She tries to move silently upon the land, but as others begin to outdistance her, she gives up any attempt at stealth so that she may keep up with them.
As her companions react quickly to the scene unfolding in front of them, Vaysh instead stops for a moment. Her eyes roll back, and her body goes still, rigid as a board. Vaysh’s hands begin to move through the air, tracing invisible symbols and she speaks in a strange tongue. The language that ushers from her lips is light and reassuring, musical in quality with a great variation of both pitch and tone, as if she is singing.
Down and decline, drooping dreamer, darkness draws near,
Day is done, dusk is here, my dreamer do not fear.
Vaysh’s incantations go on for a short time, during which she remains in this altered state seemingly unaware of the world unfolding around her.
Begin casting sleep spell. Will take this action unless something seems really off or the creature is severely wounded.
Malthir will move next to the hunter, we are here to help, is that creature after you? What manner of creature is that?
and ready an action to attack the creature if it moves up within 5' of me.
[ooc]short post tonight. Not sure the time for mounting a horse. If I'm not around for round 2 Edric moves in and attacks the creature with his lance, using a charge if possible
He seems to be an injured man, hurt by the past. Mayhaps while I look for my past in these lands, he looks for his future, like so many others. His loss calls to me.
As the two of you sit and sink into thoughts, she closes her eyes and feels the cloak around her. A smile briefly crosses her face as she thinks of happier times spent with her family. Our travels take us back along the same road that I journeyed to the north along. While I walk and become closer to my family lands, I cannot help but feel I am further and further away from them.. In her reverie, Vaysh’s hair falls down in front of her left eye, and she is briefly startled by Malthir brushing it away.
Vaysh smiles to Malthir once again, her smile now a beaming beacon of her faith, Iomedae’s sign upon my face has never caused me pain, not directly. My family has come from a line dating back many years that have been strong in the faith of Her.
This, Vaysh touches the very distinct birthmark, a sword running down her face. The blade’s crossguard meets where her eye is, and can be seen when Vaysh closes her eyelids. Around Vaysh’s eye there is a fourteen pointed starburst, with the hilt and the blade itself acting as two more points of the crown. is a sign that we have been blessed with across generations. Only one child bears the mark in a generation.
Vaysh dips her head once again, her hair falls down in front of her left eye as if trained to do so, My Lady’s mark upon me is not usual for my family though. Since the time of the progenitor of my line, tales speak only of one other who bore the mark upon his face.
Vaysh pushes the hair away from her face again, I have no need to hide this now. If I am to live up to the task before me, I must not hide in such ways. The Inheritor is wise and She sees the potential within her flock. Mayhaps fate conspired in this way to bring you along the path you have trod because She has seen Honor within you, Mister Al’Dagon, Vaysh says with confidence brought about by her faith.
What does it feel like? It is a hard question to answer, Mister Al’Dagon. I have lived no other way, and so I know no other way to live. I feel the call of Iomedae upon me, I believe that She smiles upon the action that we take, Vaysh says as she takes Malthir’s hand. To come to a place like this, rife with banditry, it would be to easy for some to become executioners. We must temper our judgment over those of this land with Iomedae’s justice and offer the chance for redemption.
Vaysh lets go of Malthir’s hand, What of your own time in service to our Lady? Are you a priest, Mister Al’Dagon?
What of your own time in service to our Lady? Are you a priest, Mister Al’Dagon?
Not really, maybe you could better describe me as a holy warrior. Although I was taught about Iomedae and her ways, I follow the path of the sword, under her light.
He describes his classes as well as his combat traing, but the real discovery was his heartfelt belief in Iomedae and her teachings.I must admit that giving mercy had not really crossed my mind, unless they ask for it and can swear under the sword that they will seek redemption. But we will see what challenges our lady brings before us. Thank you for your kind words and the talk, maybe this has helped the both of us? If you feel that you ever need to have someone to talk to, I expect you to come to me. We should get back. a smile passes his lips after his strong words so you know he wasn't trying to be too serious.