After the kingdom of Vertaria has risen there were many doom says claiming that this land would not last a week where better civilisations have, however this kingdom has continued to grow.
The nation has grown to a substancial size and just as our heroes prepare themselves for their next adventure, rumors of Troll sightings in the south grow which start to cause a slow panic to build through the nation, however Sir Bronwyn, the noble leader of the people manage to disperse these concerns, bringing up the grand battles that have been fought, including the recent attack of two wyverns.
A new order arrives, giving the group permission to travel to the south and take new lands for themselves, but be careful for there be Trolls out there.
You decided to abandon your cabin where in the night you heard the howls of creatures you know to be dangerous. Two belonging to enormous wolves known as Worgs and another belonging to a creature known as a Winter Wolf.
You did not flee, but just retreat for now where you believe those who claim to own these lands will be able to help you oust thses creatures from your home.
Zorestar approaches Sir Bronwyn one day. "Sir Bronwyn, I am most impressed with your stories of the defense of the nation against those two wyverns. That was a very clever use of the story to allay fears in the kingdom. However, I need to make it absolutely clear to you that the rumors of trolls to the south have persisted and that panic is still building through this nation. Your stories will only work for so long. I think this is a problem that you will not be able to ignore indefinitely."
"I have to agree with Zorestar, if the people don't see us take action they will panic. I've done my best to train the troops but they'll not stand long against supernatural foes. What do we know about these trolls?"
Carina listens as Zorestar and James discuss the recent rumors. When the brave General inquires about the trolls, Carina steps up holding the sleeping Katerina's head on her shoulder.
Knowledge(arcana):
Trolls are vicious twisted giants. They have the ability to heal that would put even the most hardy of your orcish brethren to shame. Wounds close in but moments unless attacked with the right means. I believe fire and acid reduce their ability to regenerate.
Carina then stares toward the lake to the south visible from the window of the castle.
I have had strange visions of monsters from the south. I cannot say that I have dreamt of trolls, but there is an evil lying not far from here and if we to not move to halt it, it shall move to halt us. I would prefer that the good people of this land remain as far from the battle lines as possible. Thus, I think that it is time we strap on our swords and mount our steeds, - Carina looks at Zorestar and rolls her eyes - and cushy wagons, and head south to stop whatever evil awaits before it is at our doorsteps.
Jhod smiles to the group and welcomes them all.
"Do not worry about the state of your kingdom whilst away. Me and the others shall look after it for you in the day to day running." he has nearby a few carers to help look after Carina's child in her absence. "We will keep the child safe, do not worry."
Sootscales steps forward now and gives you all a salute.
"You biggins brave! We never fight giant greenskins!" he gives you a respectful look of a warrior. "We see big things down south. Keep your weapons close."
the current date is Wealday the 23rd of Lamashan. More than a year since your first venture.
Jhod then seemed to have snapped out of deep thought.
"Ah yes, that reminds me we have a few problems that the citizens wish to address you all in person. If you wish, I may bring them in one case at a time to discuss the issues in question." he states looking back to the door he came through.
The duke of Greenwood weighs in the counsel of his friends and family, patiently weighing in their opinions and considering their information. It's only during a few precious moments that Bronwyn resurfaces to laugh loudly at a joke or to gently touch the hand of his wife.
"Sir Bronwyn, I am most impressed with your stories of the defense of the nation against those two wyverns. That was a very clever use of the story to allay fears in the kingdom. However, I need to make it absolutely clear to you that the rumors of trolls to the south have persisted and that panic is still building through this nation. Your stories will only work for so long. I think this is a problem that you will not be able to ignore indefinitely."
It was never my intention to ignore them. Quite the opposite, my friends. This has been our call to arms, and I will not let it go unheard. We march at dawn the day after tomorrow.
Trolls are vicious twisted giants. They have the ability to heal that would put even the most hardy of your orcish brethren to shame. Wounds close in but moments unless attacked with the right means. I believe fire and acid reduce their ability to regenerate.
I feel I owe to the spirit of Vertaria to at least offer them a hand in peace ad we were offered in the past and we ourselves have offered many times since. But if they mean harm to our people, we'll bring them fire.
Today we hold court as normal. The people need to see we will not be coerced by fear into inaction. Tomorrow we'll prepare for the journey. Between the expertise of Ganit, Sir Jameson and Zorestar I do not think we will be taken unprepared for any unforeseen circumstance. We leave at the following dawn.
"Thus, I think that it is time we strap on our swords and mount our steeds, - Carina looks at Zorestar and rolls her eyes - and cushy wagons, and head south to stop whatever evil awaits before it is at our doorsteps."
Zorestar lights up at the thought. "I love my traveling coach. I shall stock it up full of provisions and components at once and prepare to leave."
"Between the expertise of Ganit, Sir Jameson and Zorestar I do not think we will be taken unprepared for any unforeseen circumstance. We leave at the following dawn."
"I will do what research I can on trolls, and be ready to advise you as I may, my Lord. However, once we are out in the field, I cannot guarantee preparedness for every unforeseen circumstance. Naturally, that is why the event is called unforeseen. We simply did not foresee them in the first place. However, I will endeavor to keep the unforeseeable circumstances down to a relative minimum and plan for as many foreseeable circumstances as possible. How does that sound to you?"
Carina smiles as the companions once again resume their old roles as an adventuring party.
Remember all, we are no longer six whose lives are but their own. We owe a duty to these people to assure that the land is safe. But, we also owe these good people the duty to return alive so that we may continue to rule this land as the good and free land that it has become. The land where all who wish peace are welcomed with open arms.
"Remember all, we are no longer six whose lives are but their own. We owe a duty to these people to assure that the land is safe. But, we also owe these good people the duty to return alive so that we may continue to rule this land as the good and free land that it has become."
"I hope you do not take offense, my lady, but if you think that I am going to give up the library, my position, my fiancé and all of the books surrounding me so that I can roam the land in my comfy coach fighting trolls, you are very mistaken. I anticipate that this will be a very short trip to eradicate the troll infestation and then we will return home to a nice warm fire. Adventures really are a bother. However, I will naturally perform my duty to the best of my ability and do my utmost to be of service to all of you."
Carina giggles at Zorestar's response:
We shall see my bookish friend. Perhaps there are mysteries to be found in the lands south of here. Secrets lost for centuries, new creatures, hordes of treasure, natural resources to make our land, and your magic, stronger.
She pauses for a moment:
Or, you can remain in your dungeon . . . I mean library . . . and research that which has been studied by many before. While it is possible that you may discover something unknown, if you want to make real history, you have to do that which shall be remembered by all. And trust me, civilizing the troll infested lands south of here is far more memorable for the masses than is discovering a new way to make dust form into the shape of a nymph.
"We shall see my bookish friend. Perhaps there are mysteries to be found in the lands south of here. Secrets lost for centuries, new creatures, hordes of treasure, natural resources to make our land, and your magic, stronger."
Zorestar strokes his beard for a moment as he considers what Carina is saying. "Hmm?! Now that you put it that way, I think we could make very good use of this trip. We could certainly use some research into botany, zoology, and geology of the surrounding regions. Perhaps we may be able to put some of the natural resources of the area to use." Zorestar thinks a moment longer and remarks, "Well, I will certainly do my best to enjoy myself, but let's not think that all I do in my library is weave dust into nymphs! Can you imagine what Alicia would say if I did?!"
The following evening, after a day of research and packing, Zorestar comes to Sir Bronwyn with a report on his research on trolls.
"Goode evening, Sir Bronwyn. if I can have a moment of your time. This won't take long, but I have some information for you on trolls that I think you should be aware of. For the last day I have been studying the ecology of trolls and discovered a variety of facts. First, you should know that they prefer cold mountainous environments and they usually live in gangs of two to four."
"Furthermore, Trolls possess incredibly sharp claws and amazing regenerative powers, allowing them to recover from nearly any wound. They are stooped, fantastically ugly, and astonishingly strong—combined with their claws, their strength allows them to literally tear apart flesh to feed their voracious appetites. Trolls stand about 14 feet tall, but their hunched postures often make them appear shorter. I am not sure that you ever knew this, but I find it remarkable that an adult troll actually weighs around 1,000 pounds."
"A troll's appetite and its regenerative powers make it a fearless combatant, ever prepared to charge headlong at the nearest living creature and attack with all of its fury. I know this may sound rather disheartening, but do not worry, I have more to say. You see, only fire seems to cause a troll to hesitate, but even this mortal threat is not enough to stop a troll's advance. Those who commonly battle with trolls know to locate and burn any pieces after a fight, for even the smallest scrap of flesh can regrow a full-size troll given enough time. Fortunately, only the largest part of a troll regrows in this way."
"I find this next fact rather surprising. Did you know that despite their cruelty in combat, trolls are surprisingly tender and kind to their own young? Female trolls work as a group, spending a great deal of time teaching young trolls to hunt and fend for themselves before sending them off to find their own territories. A male troll tends to live a solitary existence, partnering with a female for only a brief time to mate. All trolls spend most of their time hunting for food, as they must consume vast amounts each day or face starvation. Due to this need, most trolls stake out large territories as their own, and fights between rivals are quite common. While these are usually nonlethal, trolls are aware of each others' weaknesses and will use such knowledge to kill their own kind if food is scarce."
"I do hope you find this information as fascinating as I have. I think I am actually intrigued to see such a creature in the wild. Obviously not too close, but nevertheless, this will certainly be an exciting experience!"
At the meeting there are many concerns, but generally simple trade questions of using the river. However a few instances do grab your attention as most important.
A couple are named the Tannersen's and their son, Tig, has dissappeared.
"He was never a well behaved boy. He was always going out along the riverbank, bringing back lizards and other things he called 'pets' but he never did anyone any harm. We searched with our friends, but found nothing. He's been gone for several days and we have no one else to turn to, but you my lord. If you find him, please bring him back safely." the mother says through her tears. "If you find him, we'll raise a toast in your honor every day."
Next a man named Arven comes. He is a old fisherman that many people in the area know and he's always been great and catching some of the best fish in the area.
"Forgive me my lords for this is below your attention. I have a secret fishing hold on the east bank of the Tuskwater, but now a foul beast has claimed it as his spot. It's the legendary Old Crackjaw. He is an enormous turtle and I am too old to drive the thing away. As a reward I found this belt a while ago. I was told it was magic and meant to enhance one's physical build." he shows you a impressive-looking silver ring that shines brightly.
Old Crackjaw is semi-legendary in this area. All he really is, is a lockjaw turtle. It's very large for turtles and no other specimen has been seen like it here before, hence it's semi-legendary status.
It has nothing really special about it besides that it is incredibly old and hard to kill. There was word that a local druid had gone to greet it, but he never returned.
A Lumberjack named Stas is your third visitor.
"My Lords and Ladies, you are the only ones who might believe me. I was out guarding an area when a beast appeared. It's some kind of giant lizard that I have heard people call a Hodag. A giant lizard covered in spikes and with an attitude to match. I hurled my spear at it, but it got stuck and when I reported this, they laughed and claimed I got drunk and lost it." he says shaking his fist in anger. "This is now a matter of honor. If you find my spear, you can keep it. It is a powerful spear that I have had in my family for generations."
The Hodag is a rarely seen creature. It is vaugely Reptilian in appearance and covered in spikes making it's tail extra deadly. It's mouth is full of dagger-like teeth and it's eyes have a sinister crimson glow about them.
These bull-sized creature have been said to follow loggers from stories where they claim to have seen the red eyes, but when looking for it the creature dissappears without a trace, leading many to believe these stories to be fantasies of drink or another mind-altering substance.
These creatures are known to be incredibly ferocious and won't die easily. Some believe this beast is not a true breeding beast and that it merely hunts in the woodlands whilst folklorists claim it was created from the body of a Ox sacrificed to clense foul spirits, but instead took on the spirits and became transformed.
From the description this beast appears to be a male of the species for the females lack horns or the ability to toss enemies aside unlike the male.
The fourth visiter is a sultry merchant's daughter named Lily Teskertin. As the others dressed in what finery they could get, she has done for clothing that grips her body in all the right places and a corset that almost appears too short on her as she is often adjusting herself, but you get the sense that she wants to continue to adjust herself infront of the men.
"I greet you my Lords and Ladies. My name is Lilly Teskertin and I have been in love with fine Elven workmanship for many years, but alas I have never owned an example of such work. I hear that there is an old Elven ruin in the southern Narlmarches (south-west, near the edge of the map are the Narlmarches) and if you could find me such a item I would be 'ever' so greatful..." she trails off as she looks over at Jameson and gives him a wink. "I am willing to pay with an item my father came across. A set of horseshoes of speed. Something I am sure a big, noble and handsome warrior like yourself would be interested in shoeing to his horse, right cutie?"
The final to enter is Lord Maegar Varn bringing word from his brothers for the group.
"Greetings to you all. I bring word that the swordlords have heard of a band of trolls somewhere to the south. The swordlords do not like the idea of these monsters being so close causing danger not only to us, but to Restov too." he gives a smile as he looks back over the scroll he is reading. "Upon their defeat we are willing to pay you three thousand gold and sending additional support to your kingdom."
After his declaration Maegar moves over to Zorestar and Alicia to talk for a bit. He arrived with the same small number of guards as last time, however they appear more experienced and better equipped than last time. The guards remained outside the chamber as he only needed to come in by himself.
"I decided to come to see the birth of my first grand-child. I know you'll be a wonderful mother my daughter and you a great father, Zorestar." he smiles and at this Jhod also brings up that there are a number of posters in town that reguard bounties if the group are interested in learning about them as the rewards are generous, but the risk great. Lord Varn decides to speak to the group again. "I am glad to see your kingdom has grown so well. I hear that those in Brevoy have been getting green eyed at the sight of your booming kingdom. I avoid those types as they claim they could've taken out the bandits themselves, but they are all talk and nothing else. I know what you have done here was seen as impossible over a year ago, but here we all are in your kingdom. If any of those fools in the north or south show their ugly heads and dare threaten any of you, I will gladly ride in battle beside you, Duke Bronwyn Greenwood."
Zorestar listens to each of the people and then discretely offers insight to Bronwyn as needed.
"Forgive me my lords for this is below your attention. I have a secret fishing hold on the east bank of the Tuskwater, but now a foul beast has claimed it as his spot. It's the legendary Old Crackjaw. He is an enormous turtle and I am too old to drive the thing away. As a reward I found this belt a while ago. I was told it was magic and meant to enhance one's physical build."
"My Lord, Old Crackjaw is semi-legendary in this area. However, all he really is, is simply a Turtur Cataracta Mandibulum".[b]Zorestar pauses as if that explained everything. [b]"You know, a lockjaw turtle. Basically, it's very large for turtles and no other specimen has been seen like it here before, hence it's semi-legendary status. Furthermore, It has nothing really special about it besides that it is incredibly old and hard to kill. However, now that I think about it, there was word that a local druid had gone to greet it, but he never returned."
"My Lords and Ladies, you are the only ones who might believe me. I was out guarding an area when a beast appeared. It's some kind of giant lizard that I have heard people call a Hodag. A giant lizard covered in spikes and with an attitude to match. I hurled my spear at it, but it got stuck and when I reported this, they laughed and claimed I got drunk and lost it." he says shaking his fist in anger. "This is now a matter of honor. If you find my spear, you can keep it. It is a powerful spear that I have had in my family for generations."
"My Lord, please let me explain what little I know of this creature. The Hodag is a rarely seen creature. It is vaugely Reptilian in appearance and covered in spikes making its tail extra deadly. Furthermore, Its mouth is full of dagger-like teeth and its eyes have a sinister crimson glow about them. These bull-sized creature have been said to follow loggers from stories where they claim to have seen the red eyes, but when looking for it, the creature dissappears without a trace, leading many to believe these stories to be fantasies of . . . " Zorestar clears his throat and then finishes the sentence, " . . . drink or other mind-altering substances."
"These creatures are known to be incredibly ferocious and won't die easily. Furthermore, some believe this beast is not a true breeding beast and that it merely hunts in the woodlands. However, there are many folklorists who claim that it was created from the body of an Ox sacrificed to cleanse foul spirits, but instead took on the spirits and became transformed."
One last note, that I should not forget to mention. From the description given to you, this beast naturally sounds like a male. Clearly the females lack horns or the ability to toss enemies aside like the male are capable of.
"I decided to come to see the birth of my first grand-child. I know you'll be a wonderful mother my daughter and you a great father, Zorestar."
"A grand son? I wonder who from? . . . . Oh dear Nethys! Alicia is going to have a child!"
Zorestar's face suddenly lights up and great smile crosses his face.
"Well, my Lord, I am certain you will be a great grand father. I mean not actually a great grandfather. Well, what I mean is yes, you will be great, and naturally you are Alicia's father, but clearly you are not the father of the father of the mother of the child. But I am certain that you will some day be the father of the mother of the parent of your great grand child. But let's not get ahead of ourselves, yet. For now you will be a superb grand father! Thank you for coming, Maegar!"
Zorestar then give his wife a warm embrace and says, "This is most extraordinarily exciting!"
Carina listens to the various citizens as they come forth giving each an understanding smile although her mind is frequently wandering to her child now in the nursery with her nurse.
When the parents of the lost child come forward, Carina steps down from her chair and takes the woman's hand.
My goodness, that is terrible. Could you show us where exactly he was last seen? The safety of the citizens of this great nation is foremost in importance.
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To the old fisherman:
Old Crackjaw you say? He sounds as though he might make for a great monument or decoration for the new temple we are building in Stagholm. Carina pauses and thinks for a moment while twirling her long dark hair around her finger. Or perhaps I should speak with the priest Jhod before sending him a giant dead turtle. After another moment and some more thought. Either way, we shall investigate Old Crackjaw as any creature that is a threat to the people of our nation, especially the farmers and fishermen who feed us all, must either cease their attacks, or be dealt with.
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To the lumberjack: We shall investigate this . . . giant spiky attitude lizard with a spear sticking out of it. If it is approaching close enough that it is tangling with the guard, then it will soon threaten farmers and hunters as the nation expands to the south. Can you tell us any more about this creature? Perhaps draw a map of exactly where you were when you saw it? The more information we have, the better Marshall Ganit and General Jameson will be able to craft a way to stop the beast.
_____________
When the scantily clad Ms. Teskertin approaches, Carina simple shakes her head.
Ms. Teskertin, while I am sure that your . . . approach to dealing with men is usually successful, I must caution you that several men on this council are betrothed, and your . . . manner of dress is less than appropriate for a counsel with the council.
Carina pauses and lets this statement sink in:
Nonetheless, we have noted your interest in the item of fine elven craftsmanship and as we do intend to begin surveying the lands to the south, we shall keep an eye out for the items you seek. However, if you were to provide any more detail on what it is specifically you seek, that would be invaluable as I would hate to return with an elvish tiara only to find that you were seeking an elvish dancing gown.
Carina says this last part with more than a little sarcasm, but seriousness nonetheless.
______________
When Lord Varn approaches, Carina stands and welcomes him with a formal handshake and then a warm hug.
Lord Varn, it is a pleasure to see you again. The trade between our lands grows by the day and I must say that your daughter has had a wonderful effect on Magistrate Zorestar. Carina then looks at Ganit, James and finally Telias (if he is there), and then leans in close and softly jests. I only wish you had a few more daughters to teach the surly ranger, proud general, and rather unkempt druid a lesson or two about civility.
Carina listens to the various citizens as they come forth giving each an understanding smile although her mind is frequently wandering to her child now in the nursery with her nurse.
When the parents of the lost child come forward, Carina steps down from her chair and takes the woman's hand.
My goodness, that is terrible. Could you show us where exactly he was last seen? The safety of the citizens of this great nation is foremost in importance.
"We don't know where, but he was always by the river, collecting small lizards and things. He loves the little creatures, but we tell him he can't keep them as pets, so he hides them." the father explains with his weeping wife. "If he is anywhere, he'll be down south by the river looking for creatures."
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To the old fisherman:
Old Crackjaw you say? He sounds as though he might make for a great monument or decoration for the new temple we are building in Stagholm. Carina pauses and thinks for a moment while twirling her long dark hair around her finger. Or perhaps I should speak with the priest Jhod before sending him a giant dead turtle. After another moment and some more thought. Either way, we shall investigate Old Crackjaw as any creature that is a threat to the people of our nation, especially the farmers and fishermen who feed us all, must either cease their attacks, or be dealt with.
Jhod takes a moment and nods.
"Erastil would be pleased to see such a trophy as that of Old Crackjaw. He has been a menace to these lands for sometime." he explains as Jhod is there at the council with you all.
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To the lumberjack: We shall investigate this . . . giant spiky attitude lizard with a spear sticking out of it. If it is approaching close enough that it is tangling with the guard, then it will soon threaten farmers and hunters as the nation expands to the south. Can you tell us any more about this creature? Perhaps draw a map of exactly where you were when you saw it? The more information we have, the better Marshall Ganit and General Jameson will be able to craft a way to stop the beast.
"I'm no good at maps, m'lady, but I can tell you he is far to the west and slightly south. That's where I hurled my spear at him. South of this old abandoned keep." he states with a shrug, hoping you'd know where it is.
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When the scantily clad Ms. Teskertin approaches, Carina simple shakes her head.
Ms. Teskertin, while I am sure that your . . . approach to dealing with men is usually successful, I must caution you that several men on this council are betrothed, and your . . . manner of dress is less than appropriate for a counsel with the council.Carina pauses and lets this statement sink in:
Nonetheless, we have noted your interest in the item of fine elven craftsmanship and as we do intend to begin surveying the lands to the south, we shall keep an eye out for the items you seek. However, if you were to provide any more detail on what it is specifically you seek, that would be invaluable as I would hate to return with an elvish tiara only to find that you were seeking an elvish dancing gown.
Carina says this last part with more than a little sarcasm, but seriousness nonetheless.
She pouts at Carina, but gives a sigh and a shrug.
"Meant no harm, your ladyship. she says with a courtsey before returning to the task at hand. "As a young girl I once travelled to Kyronin with my father for trade. The Elves were strange to me as a child, but when visiting a temple their statues were the most beautiful I had ever seen. I have never seen a stone mason re-create such fine work in all my life. I believe such a statue might be in this ruin lost for years when the elves left this land. The keep is far to the west, slightly south from what I hear, but it's so dangerous out there and no one has as much experience in exploring these lands as you do my Lords and Ladies."
When Lord Varn approaches, Carina stands and welcomes him with a formal handshake and then a warm hug.Lord Varn, it is a pleasure to see you again. The trade between our lands grows by the day and I must say that your daughter has had a wonderful effect on Magistrate Zorestar. Carina then looks at Ganit, James and finally Telias (if he is there), and then leans in close and softly jests. I only wish you had a few more daughters to teach the surly ranger, proud general, and rather unkempt druid a lesson or two about civility.
"Ah, I am afraid I have only the one, but I wouldn't trade her for anything in the land. It was her choice to come here and so I left it at that." he states with a bow. "I hope you will be able to visit Varnhold someday. I may even be able to introduce you to the centaurs who recently helped turn away a group of giants.
Can't remember, but it was a winter wolf and 2 worgs that attcked, not a bunch of wolves which I might've said. You would've also seen a poster for the creature called "Howl-of-the-north-wind" who has been known to have caused trouble in these lands, but until now has been quiet. The new growing nation has drawn them in with the idea of fresh meat close at hand. There is a reward on the board for the death of these creatures.
"It seems there are many things to the South of us that are quite dangerous. Hopefully nothing moves to the North while we are dealing with these threats. My lords, what plans do you have for securing our borders while we deal with this?"
"Regardless of what the denizens of the north decide to do, the fact that our capital is lies right on the southern edge of our border, I think it would be prudent to explore further to the south and see what needs to be done to secure the peace in this land. Besides, an expanded border can only help with natural resources and the like."
Carina looks at the mage: True. I think we should start with those area directly south to give the city a little more of a buffer and warning should anyone, or anything, come from the south. Then we can explore and survey the rest of the land to the south in strips. If we continue to expand the nation to the south as we go, then we will have roads fairly close to make passage of cushy wagons easier.
"Very well then, we head South. Let us hope your years of ignoring the militia in favor of civic works doesn't give us cause for regret."
Carina looks back at James:
Your troops are well trained. In addition, Chief Sootscale and the others will keep a sharp eye on things while we are away.
I do not expect us to be away for an extended period, until we move much farther south, I think that we should be able to get back to the capital in less than a day.
Speaking of cushy wagons, do we have enough of a path cleared that I could bring my coach down for the excursion? If really would be a benefit in so many ways. I just don't want to hold the adventure up with my coach stuck in the woods."
The Spymaster weathered through the council meeting in the same manor he did the previous ones. Stone-faced and slouched back in his chair he watched lords, ladies, countrymen and courtesans beg their pleas and hobble together hungry reward. Tenderly he brings two fingers to his pulsating red right eye and wavers between sleep and reality momentarily before reaching into his pocket for an alchemist’s kindness and a flask of whiskey. Taking the two together seemed to achieve better results than drinking them separately.
He managed to keep both eyes open through the rest of the tediousness but only barely so. As the last of them flushed the room, Ganit rises to his feet and lets out a loud stretching yawn, kinks his neck and scratches at his shoulders. ”We can go now, right? Least any a’ you got more promises to make.”
Jhod produces the posters he mentioned earlier for you to look at:
Dragon Hunt
There are rumors of a dragon hunting the southern Narlmarches. Jhod explains that the reports are overstated and the creature is most likely not a true dragon, much like the wyverns the group fought before. Atleast he hopes. Eitherway it has been killing folks, but only those who are cross into it's den. Returning with it's head will be proof of it being slain and the kingdom will reward the group responsible with 1,800 gp.
Troll Blood Required
Old Bokken has been researching into the possibility that his potion making could be enhanced with the use of trolls blood, based on their regenerative nature. A waterskin full will be suffice to help with his experiments and he'll reward with 1,800 gp in potions of the group's choice.
Northan Howls
This is one that Telias has helped put up himself. His home to the east has had new visitors. A Winter Wolf that leads a group of Worgs named "Howl-of-the-North-Wind" who was well know to be in this area for sometime, however he left due to lack of food and bandits, but now he has returned most likely to snack on the nearby villagers. The kingdom has agreed to pay 1,800 gp for this one's death proved by bringing back it's head which could make for a decorative mount.
Shamblesap
Bokken is also interested in aquiring the sap of a creature known as a Shambling Mound. These creatures aren't common to the area, but they aren't unheard of either. He discovered that the sap can be used for curative potions and is willing to give anyone who can bring him any sap 1000 gp and four potions of cure moderate wounds.
"My dear Telias, I notice these signs hanging up called Northan Howls. In the fine print I was reading that a winter wolf that goes by the name 'Howl-of-the North Winds' has returned to the east to snack on villagers. With a one thousand eight hundred gold piece reward for the death of that creature, do you anticipate getting a few adventurers to go out and attack the creature? I am not really one for adventures, but I really do not like the sound of a winter wolf leading a pack of worgs around the area. These woods really need to be kept safe so that we can attract more bird watchers to the kingdom. With this wold running around, you will not only scare away the bird watchers, the birds themselves may choose to get up and fly away!"
Carina listend to Jhod list off the problems that have cropped up and the potential rewards.
She is about to speak when Zorestar speaks up. Once the wizard finishes, the responds in turn:
There are lots of problems, several of which may reward us well. But there seems to be a few which we should address first. The missing child should be found first. Next are those monsters directly threatening our land, the winter wolves, the turtle, the lizard. The we proceed south and deal with those issues which while critical, are not directly threatening our land and our people at this time, but which undoubtedly will soon threaten us.
"Quite right." Zorestar agrees with Carina. "A lost child needs our assistance more than any other. I mean, the child could always ask for directions, but the probability of getting a correct answer is relatively low."
Carina appears rather confused by the socially inept mages response: For some reason I doubt this child is just wandering amongst the villagers asking where mommy is. More likely he is lost in the woods scared, hungry and cold.
Speaking of cushy wagons, do we have enough of a path cleared that I could bring my coach down for the excursion? If really would be a benefit in so many ways. I just don't want to hold the adventure up with my coach stuck in the woods."
I fear that will not be possible, Zorestar. We have to explore a vast area as quick as possible so we can deal with these issues before they cause any more damage for our people. Ganit and Jameson should procure the fastest horses in the land, and they can help you pick a good, comfortable saddle. As they do that, would you please research about this "winter wolf"? What can we expect from this beast?
Rescue Tig Tannersen
A local boy fond of pets is missing and his parents are worried sick. Bring him back to his parents.
Reward: The kingdom's Loyalty will be increased by 2.
The Longing Lady Lily
Local lavish lady Lily Teskertin longs for some kind of elven craftsmanship. She suggests the existance of and old elven ruin in the southern Narlmarches.
Reward: A pair of horseshoes of speed.
Terrorizing Troll Troubles!
Trolls have been sighted to the south of the kingdom. Defeat the troublesome terrorist trolls to terminate the threat they represent to the kingdom and Brevoy.
Reward: 3.000 gold pieces and 10 BP for the kingdom.
Troll Blood
Crazy entrepreneur alchemist Bokken believes troll's blood could be used in the making of healing potions. Bring him back a waterskin of troll blood.
Reward: Bokken will craft 1.800 gold pieces worth of potions of the group's choice.
Stop Old Crackjaw
An ancient dangerous turtle is terrorizing the fisherman population of the lake and is hiding at a "secret fishing hold on the east bank of the Tuskwater". Stop the beast before it claims a victim.
Reward: A belt of mighty constitution +2
Halt the Hodag!
A giant lizard creature called a hodag attacked a forester. The beast should be stopped.
Reward: An adamantine +1 keen spear.
Sampling the Shambling Sap
Crazy entrepreneur alchemist Bokken has the notion that the sap of a creature known as a shambling mound can also be used on the making of healing potions. Bring a sample of the sap back to him.
Reward: 1.000 gold pieces and four potions of cure moderate wounds.
Howls of the winter winds
A winter wolf locally known as Howl-of-the-North-Wind is attacking innocent villagers. Hunt the beast down.
Reward: 1.800 gold pieces on the delivery of the beast's head.
Delving the Dragon's Den
There is a dragonlike creature hunting reachers on the southern Narlmarches. Stop the beast before it claims another life.
Reward: 1.800 gold pieces.
Lets start by heading west along the river. I assume it will curve north eventually to connect with the river to the north. If that one does not turn anything up, then we will check around the lake for other rivers. I do not think that we should go more than 1-2 hexes south of the city until we have leveled at least once. I do not think that we are quite ready to start facing dragons and troll hordes quite yet.
"Starting by the river is good, I'm sure Ganit will soon locate the child."
What's left of him.
As the council door bursts open a familiar looking piece of smelly foliage barges in a sleeping scruffy hawk perched on his shoulder. A pair of tired guards panting as if trying to chase the wind itself hold a pair of halberds to him though this seems more cursory as the man seemed more annoyed of the foot long blades than afraid. "I got a problem and yer gonna fix it. Er at least help me fix it cuz good Erastil knows I ain't movin back up north without raisin a hell's worth of fuss."
"Starting by the river is good, I'm sure Ganit will soon locate the child."
"Perhaps we could lay out a toy and see if the child comes running out to play with it!"
Carina again simply shakes her head at Zorestar's comment and is rather surprise by the unexpected appearance of the shrubbery . . . druid.
Turning to Zorestar: Perhaps you need to talk to your spouse before giving any more advice on working with children.
Looking the less than cleanly druid over, Carina jibes him without a hint of her usual grin: Welcome back Telias. Have you decided to move back to civilization? Or did the trolls toss you out because you were too messy?
"I would think food would be better Zorestar. We could set out a simple snare trap with some cake in it, that sure lure it in. Once we've caught it we'll have little trouble returning it to it's parents."
Carina turns her two colored eyes' stare toward James and gives him a cold look:
Unlike the wizard who simply needs some education on social etiquette, you really need a woman in your life to teach you that there is more than just military drilling. IT? What do you consider children to be? Unidentifiable animals?
"Think most folk could identify em easy enough," Ganit chimes in. "Keep goin'. Ideas like these make me wonder why ya even need me."
"I do imagine food for a hungry child would work. You could try broccoli first and if that did not work, then you could bring out some honey coated bread. The only trouble with all of this is that the child's sense of smell is relatively inferior to the animals that are running loose in the wild. Perhaps you could supplement the search by using a bell to alert the child that you have food for him."
Annoyed by the ibes and the sudden change of subject Telias roars in indignation. "THARS PACKS OF WINTER WOLVES PISSIN N' S@**TIN ALL OVER MA DEN! THE ONE NOT EVEN A FEW MILES FROM YOUR GODSDAMNED CAPITAL!"