Aye, he seems capable and trustful.
He has the body of a halfling, but the soul of a kobold. Sootscales says let him be one of us.
"I agree. He carried himself well during our trip south, and certainly has significant magical talents."
"His actions thus far have been commendable, he has proven he has Kardas' interests at heart. I agree."
Before leaving, Casimir makes a few inquiries about Lord Varn and his land, to see if he can dig up some useful information.
You recall that Varn was actually a teacher at the Swordlord school when you first came there. Lines of inquiry are difficult to follow up on him, but by the accounts that do come in he is a fine and gracious Swordlord. His men are all battle hardened veterans and the decision to send him to the Numerian Heights instead of a less experienced group like yours was generally deemed to be a wise choice in Brevoy. Hes reportedly very ambitious and plans to expand his fledgeling kingdom rapidly.
His territory is very small- only a few hexes at present. Taming the Numerian Heights was no easy task, and it took him a long time to come to truce with the centaurs and drive out the unfriendly locals.
Casimir shares what he has learned with the other Guardians. (You are free to read the spoiler above).
"Lord Varn is trained in the Aldori sword-style, like myself. As such, he is unlikely to have much use for a shield. On the other hand, he would probably not use a shield decorated with the crest of Kardas anyway. At most, it will probably make a decorative addition to the walls of his hall, but it is the gesture that counts.
He is ambitious, and his men are veteran fighters. It is very important that we make a good show of strength, while at the same time make every effort to establish cordial relations. He is not a man we would want to get into a border-dispute with."
After a quiet discussion, Kesten approaches you. I'd like to accompany you to the border myself. As would Akiros.
Cas, you are correct, the shield is just a jesture from 1 warrior to another, for him to hand in his hall. I believe that once he meets the statkari and sees SwordHaven he will be suitably impressed. he says with confidence.
Casimir's mention of Varn's proficiency with the Aldori dueling sword causes Kip to sit upright in his seat. To nobody in particular, Kip mumbles, How many Swordlord's are currently mucking about in the Stolen Lands? I find it highly concerning that immediately after learning that Grigor met with men brandishing this particular type of sword, that we should be approached for a meet and greet by someone who is a practitioner of the same. Is it merely coincidence? Paranoia on my part? The entire thing could be the maneuverings of Grigor himself... Kip shakes his head slowly while adding, I urge caution nonetheless...
It is always prudent to be cautious, although I doubt if he would want to try and take us on head on with 30 men. He seems more of a subterfuge type but we will see. If no other suggestions I say we make the final preparation and meet up with Varn.
Did we find anything out about his formal title?
A show of strength, you say? There goes my plans of staying home, then, Kalev says with a smile.
At Kip's injection, Kalev grows more thoughtful, Hmmm, you do make a good observation and we should take caution in approaching him, perhaps going so far as to scout his group out before we meet up with him to make sure he's upholding his end of the deal. But this may just be coincidence. The Aldori sword is famous among many warriors, I've heard, though I don't particularly understand why anyone would wield such a flimsy blade.
"A sharp observation, Kip, but I doubt we need to worry. The students of the Aldori style are numerous in Brevoy and Mivon both, and throughout the River Kingdoms. In Restov alone, half a dozen schools turn out hundreds of student every year. I was one, and our good Baron's brother another, Pharasma keep his soul."
By the way, I'd better buy myself a new mount to replace faithful Babiska, or I shall slow you down on our travels and missions of exploration.
A couple of days after the wedding you proceed to the eastern border of the Greenbelt- the full group of Guardians as well as various guards and wardens, Akiros and Kesten. There waiting for you as promised, are just under twenty armed individuals with ten retainers. The armed individuals have a hard look about them, with battle worn equipment and a variety of weaponry on each man; clearly professional mercenaries. A towering half-orc in full plate mail barks orders as you approach and they form up into two columns of men, each facing one another and raising their blades in a salute. Strolling calmly underneath the raised weapons of his honour guard, Maegar Varn walks towards you, the massive half-orc on one side of him and what appears to be a leading noble on the other, talking quietly with Varn.
Maegar Varn is a man of average height, weight and build, but Casimir recalls he was one of the most dangerous duelists in Restov, his unassuming appearance a careful strategy to put opponents off-guard. He is not young, a little older than Jhod in fact and a little into middle age. He is dressed in fine red robes and although its possible hes wearing light armour underneath them, it is well-concealed if so. He walks with an easy grace that radiates confidence, one hand on his sheathed Aldori sword as he bows deeply to your group, smiling and with the other hand emphasising his bow. He waits for you to make your approach.
Kip sits back awaiting Baron Malthir's formal greeting and response to Maegar Varn, and presumably those of the other Guardian's as well. As Kip waits, he observes the assembled men of Maegar Varn, trying to determine if any of them look likely to be spell casters...
Malthir approaches with the Statkari in the front and the various men at arms in back. Although it has taken some effort, Fenna, Malthir, and Ilya have managed to procure/make matching tabards for the men at arms as well as a different set for the Statkari. Malthir himself is flanked in his polished breastplate of Iomedae by Casimir and Kalev.
Banners of Kardas also hang on the edge of 20 spears showing unity and purpose.
Malthir is at the lead, he dismounts with the two lead warriors.
Maegar Varn, may the blessing of Iomedae and Erastil be upon you. We come in peace and friendship, looking for friends in these hard times. Today is such a day...
he walks forth and and extends his gauntleted hand,
It is good to finally meet a warrior worthy of the GreenBelt. Welcome to Kardas.
Well spoken, sir! Maegar says approvingly, if not a little patronisingly; clapping Malthir firmly on the shoulder. Friendship and peace- lofty goals indeed. Let us hope that in generations to come, today will be remembered as the day that the glorious realms of Kardas and Varnhold began a concord based on mutual respect and approbation.
Gesturing first to the massive half-orc on his left and then to the noble to his right, Varn continues.
I am delighted to finally make your acquaintance good sirs; please allow me to introduce my closest confidantes- Lord Dalgum, my spiritual advisor, master of arms and high priest of Varnhold. Lord Bellamin is our magister and my eyes and ears in Varnhold. Oh, here are their holy symbols and spell components he says in an off-hand manner as a servant brings a sack over to Ilya.- once catalogued I would appreciate it if they could be returned promptly. Even for a large group, the Stolen Lands are a dangerous place as I am sure you have discovered yourselves. If it pleases you, Baron Dagon- my servants have prepared a magnificent lunch; shall we dine and get to know each other while we discuss this visit? We brought some of the silver eels we catch locally in Varn; they are simply the finest fare I have yet found south of Brevoy!
Kalev nods his head respectfully to the three men from Varnhold, eyeing the towering half-orc with some curiosity, but not letting it show.
He remains silent, allowing Malthir the right to introduce him.
Kalev recognises the deity of the symbol as Gorum- it is not the usual sword in a mountain symbol, but a lesser known representation of a warrior clad completely in full plate.
These particular symbols are popular in Belkzen and with half-orcs all over Golarion as many of the more savage Gorumites insist that he is a Half-Orc underneath the armour. This view is not popular in most of Avistan, especially with Mendevian and Lastwall Gorumites.
Baron Varn, this is my eyes and ears in Kardas and beyond, Lord Casimir, and my Warden, Lord Kalev. he introduces the other Statkari present making sure that Ilya and Fenna are introduced as "Lord Mayor" of each of their towns. It is not bragging but simply making sure their title is recognized.
The Greenbelt is indeed a dangerous place, I appreciate your flexibility in our request and the items will be returned shortly. Getting to know each other is a fine idea, we look forward to discussing your visit.
He looks to the other men and gestures for the rest to dismount.
With a click of his fingers, Varn summons his retainers. They swiftly begin to unpack folding chairs and tables and unpack pre-prepared food. The tables look large enough to seat 6 or so to a table and each set of chairs on the east-facing side are marked 'Kardas', while the west facing side chairs are all marked 'Varn'.
So, what do you have planned to show us then? We will need to leave Kardas in about two weeks I am afraid- Dalgum has received reports that an Orc tribe we crushed is stirring once more with Ogres in support.
I understand, Kardas is in the middle of a conflict with a tribe of Trolls so we don't have the time to show you as much as we would like.
I would like to show you SwordHaven as well as our new Cathedral at Vierkirche.
Then I have an interesting proposal for you.
Would you, your two lords and a few other key retainers be interested in joining a small group of the Statkari for an Owlbear hunt? We seem to have found a rather large specimen in the south that we need to take care of. It could be dangerous, but something you might find as an interestign diversion.
I hope the trip will be conducted in about a week.
Casimir bows lightly as he is introduced.
"Always an honor to be in the presence of a swordsman of your caliber, Lord Varn. It just so happens that I am myself a graduate of the Restov dueling school where you served as an instructor. I recall hearing many of your duels retold in the hallways."
Kip nods in greeting when he is introduced. He looks to Ilya when the spell component pouch is offered to be cataloged, deferring to his experience and knowledge in such matters...
As Kip listens to the back and forth between Malthir and Maegar while taking in the manner in which Lord Varn behaves, Kip thinks to himself, Lord Varn, from Varnhold, in Varnhome, across the Varnhold Pass, with the Varnling Host... hmmmmm... somebody has a healthy opinion of himself... and is doing his best to impress, and perhaps even show up, Baron Malthir...
When the tables are set up, Kip tries to seat himself close to Lord Bellamin. Given the opportunity to speak with him, Kip asks, So you are the Magister of Varnhome? I have recently been appointed the same position in Kardas. Perhaps we can exchange courtesies at some time in the future? Exchange students, teachers or information perhaps?
I understand, Kardas is in the middle of a conflict with a tribe of Trolls so we don't have the time to show you as much as we would like.
I would like to show you SwordHaven as well as our new Cathedral at Vierkirche.
Then I have an interesting proposal for you.
Would you, your two lords and a few other key retainers be interested in joining a small group of the Statkari for an Owlbear hunt? We seem to have found a rather large specimen in the south that we need to take care of. It could be dangerous, but something you might find as an interestign diversion.
I hope the trip will be conducted in about a week.
Maegar nods and smiles as Malthir speaks, hands firmly clasped behind his back and listening intently.
It all sounds satisfactory Malthir. I speculate that myself and Lord Dalgum would be willing to partake in a hunt for this beast you mentioned, but Lord Bellamin and my other men would rather enjoy the sights of Swordhaven, I daresay. Come, let us dine as fellow Barons- have you heard much from Brevoy and the Swordlords? It seems they are mostly leaving us to our own devices while the noble houses scheme and plot...
Casimir bows lightly as he is introduced."Always an honor to be in the presence of a swordsman of your caliber, Lord Varn. It just so happens that I am myself a graduate of the Restov dueling school where you served as an instructor. I recall hearing many of your duels retold in the hallways."
Maegar looks pleased at the compliment and laughs merrily.
Well, i'm not half the swordsman I was a few years ago... I'm getting a little slow in middle age despite a daily regimen. Yes I remember you Casimir; you always had more than just a spark of potential about you; although my fellow instructors said you needed to achieve further focus and not want to dabble in so many specialities if you ever hoped to become a Swordlord. Your uncle disagrees of course; oh, please thank him for the advice he gave me a few months ago when he next passes through by the way; his counsel was sound as always. Varn finishes with a cryptic smile.
Kip nods in greeting when he is introduced. He looks to Ilya when the spell component pouch is offered to be cataloged, deferring to his experience and knowledge in such matters...
A thorough inspection reveals nothing too specific; you note material components for far more divination spells than other schools of magic inside but nothing especially dubious or nefarious strikes out at you.
When the tables are set up, Kip tries to seat himself close to Lord Bellamin. Given the opportunity to speak with him, Kip asks, So you are the Magister of Varnhome? I have recently been appointed the same position in Kardas. Perhaps we can exchange courtesies at some time in the future? Exchange students, teachers or information perhaps?
Lord Bellamin seems to be of a quiet disposition, and nods. Realising you seem to expect a response, he clears his throat.
Lord Varn has honoured me with the title, yes. I would not be adverse to collaborating with your schools of magic in the future. I'm curious- I have seen few Halflings with the discipline to master the arcane; no offence but is there a tale behind your aptitude?
Kip finished examining the spell components and handed the pouch back to Lord Bellamin with a smile and a nod while thinking to himself, "A diviner... interesting..."
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Kip is thoroughly enjoying the exquisite meal and packs away an impressive amount of food for someone of his stature.
In response to Lord Bellamin, Kip offers, Excellent. I look forward to future correspondences with you, once I get a chance to get my feet under me here. Being newly appointed, I am still working out what exactly my position demands of me!
As for your question? No offence is taken. I myself have met few halflings who practice the art. As for myself? The source of my aptitude is somewhat of a mystery. I have always had it in me, for as long as I can remember. I just didn't realize what it was. My mother has told me that someone in my family most likely had relations with some fey creature and that their blood, flowing within me, is responsible for my abilities. Kip pauses to smile before continuing, I think my mother has more intimate knowledge of the affair than she is letting on. I mean, none of the many other brothers and sisters seem to have the special gift that I myself have... and I find that very curious! Kip adds with a wink.
Turning back to his meal, he adds another helping before making inquiries if there is to be some sort of desert to be served...
When finished his meal, he retrieves a small leather pouch from his pack and proceeds to remove a finely crafted pipe and pipeweed from within. He methodically packs the pipe before offering the tobacco to whomever else would like to partake... before lighting up his pipe and sitting back in his chair, quite contentedly...
You will find SwordHaven a rustic city, it is more functional than scenic, but we hope to change that one day.
As far as the Swordlords are concerned, they have left us to our own devices, other than some little monetary aid, but that is the way I prefer it. They squabble amongst themselves when they should concern themselves with the wellbeing of their people. I just hope that their problems don't become ours.
Malthir enjoys some smalltalk after that, not speaking much about anything specific until the meal is finished.
We should be on our way so that we can make SwordHaven. Baron, shall we ride together? My people are looking forward to meeting our you.
Fenna nods at her introduction, and gives polite answers to any small-talk during the meal, but the high sun is leaving her noticeably distant. When Malthir explains how the people of Kardas are eager to welcome their guests, she speaks up in agreement, "Indeed, our people have some small celebrations planned for your arrival, where you can have the chance to sample some local wares and entertainment."
Kalev engages Lord Dalgum in talks during the dinner, asking about the threats of their realm, especially the orc tribes.
Varn grunts in agreement at Malthir's assessment of the Swordlords and Brevoy.
Maegar Varn's men are suitably pleasant and after an awkward few minutes conversation begins to flow on each of the tables. As promised, the silver eel Varn provides for the thirty of you is truly delicious and your thirty seem mightily pleased with the food, complimenting the people of Varn.
Excellent, I appreciate the trouble this visit may have caused you Fenna. Varn says with a respectful nod towards her.
Sat on a table with Dalgum, Kesten and Akiros, Kalev begins to enquire of the threats to Varnhold. Lord Dalgum speaks in a slow, rumbling voice as he tears into half a cooked chicken himself. Apparently the threats in Varnhold were incredibly numerous, including some 'evil Fey'- Dalgum says that if any of them had banded together the land could not have been tamed; but they were able to drive them off one by one. The Orc tribes took the longest to defeat; they were both numerous and strong, the elite of the tribe frequently riding tamed beasts into battle that wereas ferocious as the riders. They beat the tribes back in over a dozen battles before the tribe finally left to go further east. Dalgum also mentions a large tribe of centaurs, but apparently they were able to form a truce with them. They have agreed not to claim the centaur lands and the centaurs have agreed to leave them well alone in return.
Before long, you ride back into Kardas; apparently Fenna had organised some street parties in Kardas to celebrate the visit...
Malthir is sure to have Casimir tell some tales about the various creatures the Guardians have fought and defeated.
The Bandits, the Kobolds, the Plant creature, and the story of the Stag Lord being the height of the tales.
Malthir is sure to have Casimir tell some tales about the various creatures the Guardians have fought and defeated.
The Bandits, the Kobolds, the Plant creature, and the story of the Stag Lord being the height of the tales.
When an opportunity to have a word in private with Baron Malthir materializes, Kip asks, Perhaps some discreet inquiries could be made about the possibility that Varn's fledgling nation has also been the target of some disruptive campaign like the one we are experiencing with Grigori. It would be informative to find out if Kardas is the only target of such activities.
Casimir happily entertains on the way back, mixing the stories of the Guardians various deeds with the tales about Torag and Cayden Cailean that he learned recently.
As the entourage enters onto the main thoroughfare in Swordhaven leading from the great north road to the castle, it seems the celebrations have already begun as a festive air buzzes through the crowds that don't so much line the streets, but rather inhabit them and part to allow passage for the dignitaries, the occasional cheer or shout of greeting as people recognise the members of the group.
Along the route there are stalls offering refreshments, snacks, and trinkets, many of whom are eager to have their wares sampled, and just as importantly it would seem, seen to be sampled, by the foreign visitors. Only slightly less frequent are performers occupying small platforms to dance, sing, or spin epic tales for the entertainment of the crowd, while above it all hang the flags of both Kardas and Varnhold, representing the closer ties between the two fledgeling nations which this visit hopes to encourage.
As they round the corner and the castle comes into view, Welcome to SwordHaven Castle Baron, this was once the site of the Staglords keep, now it is a symbol for peace and justice in this land!
We make sure that Varn's men are well taken care of.
For the first night's feast, Two Fanged eel's are brought out from the Tusk water, in fact one is a huge specimen, just at 8 feet long. The fanged eel's are quite dangerous in the Tuskwater, this specimen took 4 fishermen the better part of a day to wear down and pull in.
The two will likely feed the entire dinner party but just in case a large boar is also roasted for the celebration.
The rest of the Statkari are introduced. Mikmekk and Sootscales keep an eye on our guests while they stay here.
So tomorrow it is a tour of the city and its people, then the next day we should be off to Vierkirche to visit the cathedral. It is a grand site dedicated to Iomedae and Erastil, but all non-evil faiths are welcome there to pray including homage to Gorum.
nods his head to the priest,
We then go on our Owlbear hunt, that will be a story worth telling I imagine if it is a big as Kalev has said!
Casimir happily entertains on the way back, mixing the stories of the Guardians various deeds with the tales about Torag and Cayden Cailean that he learned recently.
Casimir's tales are amusing and help to ease the awkwardness of the ride back to Swordhaven. A roar of approval reverberates through Varn's retinue as they see the stalls, and the march slows to a crawl as various coin is spent. You all notice that even the soldiers among the retinue seem to have an abundance of gold coin, some even spending platinum. Silver coins are thrown at street performers wantonly and the smile on Varn's face suggests he approves of the whole affair. You get to the castle by early evening and various introductions are made. Varn is the epitome of a gracious guest, complimenting the castle and the food and smiling all the while. The conversation with him at dinner is mostly small talk, but he does at one point quietly address Malthir-
I would like to discuss the possibility of a trade route between our kingdoms, Malthir. I could have a road leading from Varnhold to the border of the Greenbelt ready in six months or less, and surely both our kingdoms would prosper.
I think that is an excellent suggestion Baron Varn. Both of our peoples and kingdoms would indeed prosper from such a relationship. I am sure after years of fighting we could both use someone on our border who isn't interested in fighting the other.
You may find this a little odd but I would of course need to talk with the council of Kardas about such a matter to work out the details, but I can assure you that Kardas is very interested in what you propose.