I figured since we are looking to head back to rule the kingdom for another month I would throw out the monthly build suggestion.
Month 26 Suggestion Summary:
Strategy: Expand the Kingdom, Build at SwordHaven, Complete Site Prep for the City of Vierkirche !
Starting BP: 37 BP
0 BP for consumption, +X BP for 0 unrest, claim hex A48 road it -2 BP, farm it -4 BP, claim hex A10 -1 BP, & build a bridge in Swordhaven -1 BP, build a library -6 BP in SwordHaven, + X BP sell 2 items .
Ending BP: 23 BP +0 BP unrest, + X BP items, + X BP Economy Roll = XX BP
Benefits: Saves some BP, stay neutral in consumption, expand our kingdom, +1 Econ & loyalty.
Items rolls that will be needed:
3 Minor & 1 Medium for SwordHaven
1 Minor for Northgreen
General plan as we were thinking at the time:
Turn 27 city complete, build Cathedral at temple city & another pier in SwordHaven.
with the two cities with medium items we should really be able to crank out the BP at this point as long as we don't keep getting scrolls.
As the Guardians rest after their harrowing battle in the tomb, Casimir raises a question to the group.
I think we should visit the lizardfolk to the south very soon. It seems this troll warlord is gathering allies, and I would hate to see trolls and lizardfolk united against Kardas.
You are able to leave the crypt long before the bats return, and spend the night resting out in the wilderness.
Malthir- you feel weak and groggy all night, and you dream of sitting on horseback atop a hill triumphant; watching your warriors surge down the hillside into the pathetic village before you- watching in grim satisfaction as your loyal barbarians ravage the settlement. Your treacherous younger brother stands beside you, watching you for any sign of your weakness. You ache, and your sword arm has long lost the great strength that you have become renowned for in your many years; but you sit atop your great steed tall and proud. Drawing Ikachi, your blessed longsword; you resolve to ride into battle one last time. Reflecting upon your life, you feel a sense of satisfaction. You have done terrible things and you have little doubt that your soul is damned; but soon, Ioboria will be united under one banner again...
The next day, you arrive back in Swordhaven; and as you ride through the streets you sense some unease at your return- it seems all has not been well in the city in your abscence...
Assuming that I need to make them today here are my 2 fortitude saves to the unknown DC:
When they are sitting at their camp a little way from the tomb, Kalev comments, while Casimir is examining the sword and telling about its history, That's a powerful sword indeed. I've heard tale of dark fey, I think they are called awnsheglien. With the stories I've heard of a close connection between this area and the First World, it would be good to have a potent weapons should we encounter any such powers.
When they are sitting at their camp a little way from the tomb, Kalev comments, while Casimir is examining the sword and telling about its history, That's a powerful sword indeed. I've heard tale of dark fey, I think they are called awnsheglien. With the stories I've heard of a close connection between this area and the First World, it would be good to have a potent weapons should we encounter any such powers.
Malthir listens with interest about these dark fey. Do they still exist? We met some fey under the great tree in the kingdom but they were more of a nuisance than a real threat?
The next morning Malthir talks about his dream and restless night he had with the rest of the guardians. He doesn't like the fact that the blade they recovered was used in so much evil. He also expresses his worries about the blade being haunted in some way...he turns to Fenna and asks her to seek guidance in the matter. Should they keep the blade? Should the blade be destroyed? Can we use it for good?
Fenna looks quietly at the blade for a few moments, considering Malthir's question carefully before replying.
"Most objects, like most people, are capable of both good and evil," she begins, "just as Kressle and Akiros were able to fall from grace and subsequently redeem themselves, simply because a thing has been used extensively towards one end does not mean that it cannot be turned towards the other."
"If some dark spirit has attached itself to the blade though, something more significant may be required for it to truly become a tool of virtue."
"If your dream was indeed an indication of a malevolent presence in the blade, rather than an effect of the undead's touch, then once work has been finished on the cathedral at Vierkirche, we can make use of that holy place to perform a cleansing ritual."
Sensing the unease in the people, Ilya will use his contacts in the diplomatic corps to find out what is going on in Swordhaven.
Diplomacy (gather information) 1d20+9
When Vaysh and Malthir marry, who do we think should take up the mantel of Magister?
Arriving back in Swordhaven by early afternoon, you are met by Akiros and a small honor guard at the edges of the castle district. The ex-bandit looks tired, and bows at your approach.
Statkari- Lady Vaysh and the others have requested your presence at dinner tonight; we have a troublemaker to discuss...
A troublemaker? Kalev says with a raised eyebrow. I sense this is more serious than just a bar-brawl or minor theft...?
Casimir reaches down to clasp the hand of Akiros.
Akrios, my friend. Every time you have that look on your face, I know we have trouble to deal with. But cheer up - we have brought back trophies of victory and tales of triumph that ought to lighten the mood of our dear citizens.
A troublemaker? Kalev says with a raised eyebrow. I sense this is more serious than just a bar-brawl or minor theft...?
Hastily accompanying you to the castle, Akiros walks and talks.
A stranger to our lands, although we're sure hes from somewhere in the River Kingdoms. Hes decided to exercise the first river freedom by speaking out against our leadership; you five in particular.
Casimir reaches down to clasp the hand of Akiros.Akrios, my friend. Every time you have that look on your face, I know we have trouble to deal with. But cheer up - we have brought back trophies of victory and tales of triumph that ought to lighten the mood of our dear citizens.
That is good to hear; perhaps you can tell us of your adventures over dinner.
You are invited to take baths before the evening meal if you wish. Once you are ready for the meal, you find the other Statkari already in discussion about what to do with the troublemaker; Sootscales seems to be in favour of 'Mikmekking' him, making vicious stabbing motions with his bread knife while jabbering enthusiastically.
After cleaning up Malthir sits down wearily. He gives Vaysh a half-hearted smile and pats her hand. The only thing he wants to do is go to bed and rest, he just can't seem to summon the energy to deal with new kingdom business. He lets the other Guardians tell the stories of the last fews days. When the discussion turns back to this troublemaker, in a weak voice...
Well my fellow Statkari, why don't you tell us what this man is all about? One man speaking out against us, surely we have little to worry about. Its not like we can silence a man for speaking his mind, not all will agree with the way we rule. We can't just Mikmekk? him. Or is there more to this man?
He eats and drinks little and doesn't add much more to the conversation the rest of the night. It seems these few questions have taken what little energy he had left in him.
He is stirring up the people, attempting to turn them against us. He spoke to hundreds yesterday, and he said he planned to speak again this evening by the monument of Edric the Valiant. The murmurings of dissent are not good for the community, nor is outright critiscism of the leadership... He has been calling for the Guardians of the Greenbelt to stand down from their leadership positions and admit their incompetence.
Killing him would put an end to the problem, but it would certainly send a stark message to our citizens... Kesten remarks, sipping an imported wine from Brevoy.
Casimir lounges at the table beside Kressle, idly twirling his knife. He shakes his head at the suggestions of using force to deal with the problem.
Jhod is right. We have enough trouble already without some rabble-rouser stirring up people against us. But we must be careful how we deal with him. The people of these lands value the River Freedoms, and to try and silence him through violence would be a grave mistake that will do more harm than good, I suspect.
If he is speaking tonight, I think we should go and listen - and bring a few surprises to show off, in case he calls us inept again. Troll's blood, the enchanted sword of a Cairn wight and the head of a Winter Wolf is not something you see every day.
Casimir shoots a concerned glance at the weary Malthir.
It would undoubtedly be best if we can move swiftly - but I would hate for the people to see their Baron looking like he is about ready to fall over with weariness. Jhod, can you do anything to aid Malthir?
Also, I doubt this fellow has gotten the notion to stand up and run his mouth all on his own. I'll wager there are hidden parties backing him - we should make an effort to ferret these out. Ilya, did you learn anything from your contacts about who might be encouraging this fool?
It would undoubtedly be best if we can move swiftly - but I would hate for the people to see their Baron looking like he is about ready to fall over with weariness. Jhod, can you do anything to aid Malthir?
What has befallen him? I do keep a stash of scrolls spare for emergencies, but I will need reimbursement. The spellcasting I will not charge for, as always.
Casting a worried gaze over to Malthir, We should also find out what we can about this person. Is he a long term citizen of the city? What specifically are his grievances? Why does he stand against us? Sootscales, see what you can dig up about this person. Casimir, you may be right, maybe some of you should go down to see this person talk and to see if he is really stirring up the people as we have heard.
He iss a sstrangerr to these lands, Vayssh... Sootscales can make him disappearrr as quickly as he arrrived...
[What has befallen him? I do keep a stash of scrolls spare for emergencies, but I will need reimbursement. The spellcasting I will not charge for, as always.
Malthir stands and slowly raises his shirt to show Jhod what is really ailing him. A horrible black wound festers on his stomach. Black blood strings away from the wound, like tendrils reaching out from an evil mass. A wight has infected me with its evil. Even now my body fights the damage it tries to do to my soul. It appears that my own strength though, will not be enough to banish the taint it has done to me.
Malthir sits down, appearing almost ashamed...
We should definitely go hear what this man has to say. And by the Laws of the Land, he is entitled to speak. But I'd rather he'd have spoken when we were all here, than after we'd left. Do you think we should fear hostile actions this night? I don't much like the idea of us bringing weapons and armor...t'would set a dangerous example. Yet, to walk blindly into a potentially dangerous situation us folly. What say you we arrive in disguise and here this man out. Just a hooded cloak, nothing fancy, of course?
I think it would be wise to send in a couple of agents in disguise before we show up, but we rule there lands! And I will not have some random loudmouth have us sneaking about in our own capital. I say we go there, heads held high and with the weapons and armor we use to keep these lands safe.
Fenna nods to Ilya, "While sneaking around our own city may be somewhat distasteful, I do believe we are more likely to gain an accurate insight into what this man has been saying if we can observe him unnoticed while he makes his case; if he is aware of our presence, he may not be as open as he would otherwise be, and then we would be unable to contest the criticisms he only makes in our absence."
Sounds like most of you are agreed then, listen to what he is saying without him knowing you are there and decide what you should do from there. Malthir should stay here and we can see what Jhod can do for him while you deal with this troublemaker. Fenna do you have any specific thoughts on what we should do to help Malthir fight this evil? Good luck Guardians!
Malthir puts up little fight to Vaysh's suggestions.
"Jhod's scrolls may be the best way forwards if one of them is capable of counteracting whatever the undead has inflicted upon him, it is a terrible wound, but I have no doubt it is nothing the gods cannot set right."
Jhod is confident that a scroll of restoration will rid Malthir of the evil energy within his body, but to use it he will have to use a sprinkling of diamond dust that he held back for this purpose, as well as the cost of the scroll itself. The diamond dust represents purity of body and soul. The whole ritual will cost Malthir 1,700 gold pieces...
1d20+8
Jhod is confident that a scroll of restoration will rid Malthir of the evil energy within his body, but to use it he will have to use a sprinkling of diamond dust that he held back for this purpose, as well as the cost of the scroll itself. The diamond dust represents purity of body and soul. The whole ritual will cost Malthir 1,700 gold pieces...
Jhod escorts Malthir away for his festering wound to be treated, while the other Guardians resolve to visit the troublemaking orator when he is scheduled to appear in an hour or two...
Vaysh asks Mikmekk to watch over the other Guardians just in case this is a trap. She knows what he is capable of...
I think there may be a post missing....???
I think there may be a post missing....???
From?
I think there may be a post missing....???From?
Malthir, you ensure Jhod will receive the gold at a later date, as he insists on treating you right away. The ritual takes ten minutes of complex and elaborate spellcasting, and Jhod hesitates several times to pray to Erastil for guidance. Soft blue light slowly envelops Jhod's hand, and in the glowing light you see whispers of movement; a lone hunter stalking a deer in the Narlmarches, a stag headed man chasing resolutely after a great white stag, and your own city of Swordhaven; a fine community after Erastil's own heart. Jhod lays his hand upon the blackness clinging to your flesh, and it disappates harmlessly. A little drained, Jhod staggers back, before inspecting the wound and nodding in satisfaction.
The damage to your soul has been repaired, Malthir. Perhaps a drink by a warm fire with me now? We have much to discuss with the wedding plans and the cathedral...
Knowing that he was truly belssed by Erastil this day, Malthir throws a warm Worg pelt over his shoulders and goes to sit with Jhod to discuss the plans.
The cathedral will truly be a sight to behold Jhod. I have reviewed yours and Fenna's suggestions on the plans and agree that it should be a holy site to many religions. Of course as you have pointed out, Erastil and Iomedae will be the central focus of the Cathedral. Fenna has already submitted some requests for additional funds to build some additional structures when we get time, she envisions the town of Vierkirche as our centre of learning and religion. As much as I had thought that SwordHaven would be that place I have to agree with her, since the Cathedral shall be there it makes sense for her to oversee this dedication to learning.
You follow the gathering crowds towards the monument of Edric the Valiant. With your hoods up and with the crowds mostly moving in one direction there is little risk of being recognised. You have rarely seen so many of your kingdom's citizens gathered in one place; normally you only see crowds like this at Foundersfeast. There must thousands of people here, and a few look to have come from the many farms outside of Swordhaven's direct influence. You are currently stood at the back of the crowds, but you could slowly work your way forwards if you wish. Standing atop a makeshift wooden stage raised ten feet above the ground and just before the monument of Edric, stands a well-dressed nobleman with a well-trimmed beard and dressed completely in purple, including a beautiful purple hat. You hear from whispers in the crowd that the agitators name is Grigori.
Pic for your convenience. Yes I know the avatar doesn't look much like him :P.
His hands clasped firmly behind his back, the orator waits patiently for a few minutes, allowing the majority of the stragglers to turn up and wait. His voice seems to be augmented by magic somehow, and it booms loudly over the assembled crowd. There is something very compelling about the way he talks, and whether magic or mundane, he is clearly an incredibly skillful orator.
Good people of Swordhaven! Loyal subjects of Kardas! For those of you who do not know me, I am Grigori, nothing more than a concerned citizen of the River Kingdoms, and I bid you welcome to my humble court! Here today, we shall speak freely and openly together as a community, under the tragic shadow of the very first victim of the Guardian of the Greenbelts misrule- great Sir Edric. The great man of law and order, the fist of House Orlovsky, the Eagle Knight; surely such a man could have kept the kingdom safe, under control. Alas, Sir Edric died under suspicious circumstances while visiting the so-called vassal kobold tribe known as the Sootscales. I'm sure you've caught glimpses of them from time to time, scurrying about Swordhaven, while their fat and lazy leader Sootscales sits stuffing himself in the castle.
Regardless- perhaps if Edric was alive to steer the course, the Guardians would be fine and outstanding leaders of this community. Between him and the First Citizen of Kardas, Oleg- they could have made this a wonderful home for you fine Brevic people. I call, and shall continue to call, for nothing less than the full resignation of the Guardians of the Greenbelt for their many crimes of incompetence. Under their leadership, we have had a werewolf slay innocents within the very boundaries of Swordhaven. Worse, the misguided Guardians did not bring the sword down upon the head of this beast, a skin-wearing monster known as Kundal! Nay! The monstrous murderer of a sweet and innocent tavern wench enjoys an easy life inside the jail, with frequent visits from none other than Warden Akiros himself! Surely such a man should be spending his time ensuring the stability of our realm, but instead the ex-bandit chooses to consort with a murderer during his free time, breaking bread with a fellow villain! Surely, Akiros and the Guardians could have better spent their time protecting the poor serfs of the kingdom, ye farmers who keep this blessed city's granaries full. I speak, of course, of the Guardians greatest shame... Scorchbark.
An entire village... massacred. A great travesty to our fledgling nation, and well inside our borders. Yet, do the Guardians ride out to track down and slay the fiends that dared to attack us? Nay! They spend their time exploring a few miles at a time, and hiding inside their castle, crafting magical weapons and armour for their own gain! Even the exploration and reclamation of these Stolen Lands has floundered after the initial land grab; we have unexplored territory merely a score of miles from our doorstep! Let us hope Mivon does not decide to show us what Aldori steel is made of, for by the time we realised they have sent an army north, it will likely be too late! The Guardians and their allies seek to exploit this realm and gather wealth for their own gain; likely before scurrying back swiftly to Brevoy before the full fury of the Stolen Lands is unleashed upon them. Taxes are heavy, festivals are scarce, and they have erected no walls to shield the citizenry from the terrors of this harsh land; such an expense would reduce the returns they plan to make off their investment! You need only look at the extravagantly wealthy gentleman known as Bokken to see the fortune that being the friends of these would-be lords of the realm can grant...
Standing close to Casimir, Kalev leans in and whispers, There's something unnatural about his voice. Do you sense any magic? I also wonder if he would talk so boldly, if he knew we were here...he looks like a dressed piglet, if you ask me...
VS DC 33
Grigori looks quite shocked at your entrance, and Ilya's impassioned speech does much to win the murmuring crowd over. Despite Ilya's early success, it seems the debate is far from over.
I see one of the aforementioned Guardians has come in person to silence me! Keep watching, ladies and gentlemen; for i'm sure it won't be long before a River Freedom is torn asunder by my esteemed Elven guest. You speak pretty words songbird, but you dodged the main issues of the hour like a true politician; Scorchbark, and the monster called Kundal. Even if you have made strides in the wilderness as you have claimed, you still consort with a murderer, ignore the destruction of an entire village- and hear this good folk of Swordhaven, for I had not yet finished listing the Guardian's crimes. They have also befriended yet another monster; the swamp witch living a mere handful of miles from our fair city! The same swamp witch that is suspected to be responsible for the abduction of a boy named Tig- a case brought before the Guardians by tearful parents, only for it to be quietly brushed aside! What say you, Ilya? The blood of this sweet, innocent boy is on your hands!
A murmur of outrage and anger reverberates through the crowd. Casimir, Kalev and Fenna, you become aware through whispers in the crowd that a group of burly men nearby intend to go get Tig back from the swamp witch right now during the speech...