"The overland route is more direct, but following the main road will allow for a smoother journey. Since we are more likely to encounter bandits on the road, and since our Charter specifically mentions 'dealing' with bandit activity, I would recommend traveling via the road."
"I would agree that the road is best."
Perched on Hathin's shoulder with a bound wing is Malfini. Hathin walks along leading Chwal by the reins to keep time with the un-mounted travelers.
Lysa arrives as the 7th bell finishes tolling, dressed in well-made, but worn traveling clothes in shades of green and brown with a dark brown cloak fastened by an enameled pin in the shape of Shelyn's holy symbol. Kiki sits up on her shoulder sniffing around at the morning air and gives the injured eagle a long stare before deciding it's not a threat to her.
"Good morning gentlemen. Are we ready to set out?"
Geoffrey smiles, and nods.
"Once the others arrive, we should be good to go."
Brennor arrives shortly before the 7th bell rings clad in a thick, homespun cloak, breeches armor and tabard. Over his shoulder is a light pack filled with equipment.
"Aye the Charter speaks of confronting banditry, perhaps we should take the direct route and clear a new path to this trading post. If we can build a quicker route it would ensure that new settlers can minimize their time spent on the road which could help new settlements grow more quickly"
Tudan arrives hard on Lysa's heels on a horse named Horse, dressed for trouble in studded leather armor. Overhearing Brennor's last comment just as he got there, he smiles wryly.
And I'm last; sorry, I had trouble falling asleep, thinking about everything that lies ahead of us. Since our charter is only for south of Oleg's, I'd rather take the easy way and save my strength for what comes after.
"I do think it best to keep to the road at least for now." taking a moment to soothe Malfini as he fusses over the bandage on his wing. "The Green has gifted us a fine day, let us spend it in motion"
The travel to Oleg's goes without incident, it takes you ten days since you stop to forage once in a while. As you arrive the bright summer sun raises from the east, a mile away from you you can see a small pallisade, four towers in it's corners and smoke coming out of the chimney in one of the buildings inside it.
Tudan can barely tolerate the silence of their journey for more than a few steps before his curiosity gets the better of him. So... we were all thrown together rather abruptly. How about quick introductions, why you think you were chosen for this expedition, and what role you expect to play? I'm sure that'll raise enough questions to keep us busy getting to know each other better all the way to Oleg's.
To start, I'm Tudan Davken -- experienced at wilderness survival, blessed by some celestial ancestor with the power to heal, trained by village militias in hand-to-hand combat, and raised slinging by my Mum and Pa, since of course every halfling should know how to do that. I expect to spend my time keeping food in our bellies, repairing any injuries, and defending myself as best I can.
During the travel to the trading post, Hathin does not go out of his way to engage the other travelers preferring to remain quietly observant. One of his main tasks apart from foraging for food is to tend to Malfini. Hathin spends a good amount of time each evening in silent discourse with the eagle. When Malfini's bandages are changed you can see that there is yet healing for the wing to take before it is usable.
Lysa eyes Tudan and replies, "You look a trifle large to be halfling. I'm Lysa and this is my friend Kiki. I'd like to think I was chosen for my skills, but more likely just because my presence in town was inconvienent. I've spent time traveling with merchant caravans and am decent at reading maps, I know some magic and also have some healing ability."
Hathin pauses a few long moments before responding to Tudan's query "I am a student of the Green and seeker of the lines of natural power that course through this world. While yet young, my marriage to the earth gives me burgeoning strength to change it." he closes his eyes and when they reopen his pupils are white "My eyes see through and beyond, noting all that does not belong"
"I agree with Lysa; you seem a tad large for a Halfling... It sounds like there is a story there..."
He then turns to Lysa.
"Mademoiselle, why on Golarion would the presence of someone such as yourself be considered inconvenient?"
When asked for a bit of information about himself, Geoffrey shrugs.
"As has been said before, I am Geoffrey Whittaker, of House Lebeda. I applied because I felt that I needed a fresh start. I am a bit of a linguist, and specialise in skills requiring finesse. If you need someone to scout ahead, deal with a trap, or to appraise items, people, or communities, I am your man."
Lysa eyes Tudan and replies, "You look a trifle large to be halfling. I'm Lysa and this is my friend Kiki. I'd like to think I was chosen for my skills, but more likely just because my presence in town was inconvienent. I've spent time traveling with merchant caravans and am decent at reading maps, I know some magic and also have some healing ability."
Tudan holds his belly and laughs -- not so much because it's a new one, as because he got caught thinking of himself as a halfling again. That is true! But then, Kiki looks a bit small to be a friend. He winks to show that he's kidding. More seriously, he continues. I'm adopted, of course, but it's the life I know. If I talk or act like a halfling sometimes, it's because I was raised as one, and I'm as proud of my culture as any born halfling could be.
Lysa shrugs at Geoffrey's question. "Apparently I'm a reminder of something that never happened."
Hathin pauses a few long moments before responding to Tudan's query "I am a student of the Green and seeker of the lines of natural power that course through this world. While yet young, my marriage to the earth gives me burgeoning strength to change it." he closes his eyes and when they reopen his pupils are white "My eyes see through and beyond, noting all that does not belong"
Tudan looks interested. Really? I'd like to talk to you about that at more length, later. I've always felt a strong connection to nature, but nothing quite like that. I wonder if that is something that can be taught.
Brennor spends the time chatting with group, making jokes and gradually letting out more of his boyish excitement at the prospect of the journey ahead. Each morning he wanders into a secluded part of the woods to give thanks and prayers to Erastil, inviting along any who would be interested. That said he's surprisingly quiet about his faith, preferring to tell stories of his youth spent traveling in the North of Brevoy.
To Tuldan
"Aye it seems like the will of Old One-eye that we be thrust together. But I don't there is a plan; I think we are here to break ground on the foundation of a brand new set of possibilities. We will face trials and tribulations yet I know in my heart that through pure will and good intention we will etch a new corner of the world free of the hazards of the old. We will create a small piece of utopia where one can work hard and get rewarded for their labor.And I think I am here to ensure what we build is sustainable, something that will not destroy the beauty of nature yet not hinder the expansion of civilization."
Edmond walks with the pace of a soldier on the course of their trek to Oleg's. His mind seems to wander, but he is stoic. He doesn't avoid conversation, just doesn't seek it, seemingly content with his own company.
So... we were all thrown together rather abruptly. How about quick introductions, why you think you were chosen for this expedition, and what role you expect to play? I'm sure that'll raise enough questions to keep us busy getting to know each other better all the way to Oleg's.
"Edmond Odravam. As a respected alumni of the Odravam dueling school, My skill is considerable with blade. I can live off the land, and I'm knowledgable in engineering, having made a living as such for a few years." His mind wanders off for a few moments before he coninues"As to why I was chosen, I suppose it has to do with my aforementioned skills, and admittedly, a favorable word or two from my father I'm sure. I'm eager to make my own name, so i'm glad for the opportunity. I plan to make sure any bandit we come across meets his deserved penalty of death, preferably under my blade or bootheel, as decreed under the charter I've recieved." His tone is surprisingly somber, speaking matter of factually, and not as a braggart.
"Edmond Odravam. As a respected alumni of the Odravam dueling school, My skill is considerable with blade. I can live off the land, and I'm knowledgable in engineering, having made a living as such for a few years." His mind wanders off for a few moments before he coninues"As to why I was chosen, I suppose it has to do with my aforementioned skills, and admittedly, a favorable word or two from my father I'm sure. I'm eager to make my own name, so i'm glad for the opportunity. I plan to make sure any bandit we come across meets his deserved penalty of death, preferably under my blade or bootheel, as decreed under the charter I've recieved." His tone is surprisingly somber, speaking matter of factually, and not as a braggart.
Tudan chews on these words for several days, usually walking in front of his Horse despite the twisting of his legs, keeping pace with his burdened teammates as if his pack were nothing. On a bright and quiet noon, as all are gathered 'round for the midday meal, he addresses Edmond. So, I've been thinking. Going back to what you said before, about making sure that any bandit we meet gets his decreed penalty of death. I think that we're in accord but I want to make sure that I'm right and for the right reasons. He looks around and makes a circular gesture to bring the others into the conversation.
You see, our charter only specifies "unrepentant" banditry. However, I've seen a lot of cheats of a lot of different kinds, helping my parents at their taverns. One thing they all had in common is that they seemed to feel good about it right up until they were caught, and then all of a sudden they were sorry and promised to never do it again... or at least that's what they said. What I heard them promise was to be more careful to not get caught.
As far as I'm concerned, anyone we meet who's still practicing banditry had 24 hours to repent yesterday, and 24 the day before that, and so on; and if he repents when we defeat him, then he's just sorry to meet someone stronger. I would only consider a bandit repentant if he stopped before we met him. What say you all?
Tudan looks interested. Really? I'd like to talk to you about that at more length, later. I've always felt a strong connection to nature, but nothing quite like that.
When Hathin opens his white eyes, he cocks his head slightly while gazing at Tudan for some time. Then realising he is staring he dismisses the sight and shakes his head.
Later that evening Hathin draws Tudan aside "You said earlier you were adopted, what do you know of your parents..."
At the offer of healing to Malfini: "I could have washed away his pain, but some things must be endured. He will be stronger for the journey."
Edmond shifts uncomfortably as Tudan brings up the banditry. He looks around, as if to wait for anyone to respond, but then stands and declares simply."I say you're a man after my own heart Tudan." and swiftly walks to the edge of camp. Leaning against a tree, he unsheathes his sword and takes to refining the edge. Whilst keeping a wary eye and ear to his surroundings, it is obvious Edmonds thoughts are elsewhere.
Tudan looks interested. Really? I'd like to talk to you about that at more length, later. I've always felt a strong connection to nature, but nothing quite like that.When Hathin opens his white eyes, he cocks his head slightly while gazing at Tudan for some time. Then realising he is staring he dismisses the sight and shakes his head.
Later that evening Hathin draws Tudan aside "You said earlier you were adopted, what do you know of your parents..."
At the offer of healing to Malfini: "I could have washed away his pain, but some things must be endured. He will be stronger for the journey."
Several days before the conversation about banditry...
You mean my bio parents? Nothing really, except that I was given up voluntarily. I've had years to think about it, and all I've decided is that my Mum and Pa can be frustrating at times, but mostly they've been awesome and I wouldn't trade them for anything.
With regard to Malfini: Ah yes, I've had journeys like that myself. I wish him the best. He bows at the eagle solemnly, though with perhaps a twinkle in his eye of sympathy at the bird's restrictions.
To Tudan: "There is something of you that has not been spawned on this natural world. One of your ancestors was more than human... though I cannot ken of what. Perhaps in time you will find if you blood is tinged with weal or woe..."
With respect to the Bandits: Hathin listens but does not venture an answer.
Brennor furrows his brow for a moment before speaking to the subject. "Banditry is a plague, this much is certain. But, to say that one would slay a bandit because they've proven to be unrepentant by engaging in their trade is a mistake. Almost all life has the chance fore penitence, it is what is part of makes us living beings. We too ignore what drove the bandit to their trade; how can we tell the difference between a man who robs to put food on the table of his children and the psychotic man who takes pleasure in killing? We cannot know until we defeat and detain them, but we should not be so hasty to water the forest in more blood. And if any surrender, I will honor their decision and trust that the righteous way will be shown in due time."
To Tudan: "There is something of you that has not been spawned on this natural world. One of your ancestors was more than human... though I cannot ken of what. Perhaps in time you will find if you blood is tinged with weal or woe..."
Tudan tilts his head back and laughs. Oh that! I've been told more than once that my metallic hair probably means that I have a celestial ancestor somewhere in my family tree. Without knowing my bio parents, I have no way of knowing how far back; but I doubt it really matters, since who knows how long angels live? And that's why my Mum and Pa were able to adopt me: no one else wanted to risk that kind of scrutiny in taking care of a crippled baby. He shrugs, and then breaks into a brilliant smile. Worked out great for me! Not that everything was perfect and exactly to my liking, but that never happens. Couldn't ask for a better childhood than what I got.
Brennor furrows his brow for a moment before speaking to the subject. "Banditry is a plague, this much is certain. But, to say that one would slay a bandit because they've proven to be unrepentant by engaging in their trade is a mistake. Almost all life has the chance fore penitence, it is what is part of makes us living beings. We too ignore what drove the bandit to their trade; how can we tell the difference between a man who robs to put food on the table of his children and the psychotic man who takes pleasure in killing? We cannot know until we defeat and detain them, but we should not be so hasty to water the forest in more blood. And if any surrender, I will honor their decision and trust that the righteous way will be shown in due time."
I feel odd to be the one arguing in favor of killing, since I loathe it and I'm used to being on the other side. But we're heading into a wilderness with no jails, and no lord to condemn you for poaching his preserves. Any man we meet there who chooses to prey on other men to feed his children, could've chosen to hunt for meat instead; and there are no institutions in place to monitor any we release, to make sure that their repentance was sincere and to protect their neighbors from relapse.
"I agree with Tudan. Our Charter legally provides us with the authority to deal with any bandits that we come across. We are, in essence, judge, jury, and executioner whilst out in the wilds...
...unless you are suggesting that we should build some sort of mobile jail?"
Aye it is true now that we have no jails, but we were sent to 'civilize' this land. A more permanent solution than execution will be needed sooner or later, for example what if we meet someone who is simply stealing? A knave who slinks into campsites in the night to retrieve coppers and food stuffs, surely they do not deserve death? I think we need to create some sort of structure early on, lest we let the mistakes of previous civilizations be repeated; creating world with more wanton brutality.
A brilliant idea Geoffrey! A jail is precisely what we should build, perhaps at this Oleg fellow's encampment? In this sense we must become judge, jury, and jailer. And this is a task I would gladly take responsibility on if others were not so inclined.
Said out loud but to no-one in particular "It is clear that the simplest solution would just be to kill any bandits before they had a chance to surrender..."
"You realize it won't be quite that simple as to just build a jail and put people in it, right? You'll have to keep your prisoners feed and clothed and in good health. You'll also have to have enough other jailers with you to defend the jail from the friends of those imprisoned, not to mention that I doubt the prisoner won't try to escape on his own. Also, someone who steals supplies from a traveler in the middle of the forest can end up killing that person as surely as if they slit their throat with a knife. Jails are a preferable solution to just killing all offenders out of hand, but first you must have a settlement that can support it. Until then your choice may be death or to just let them go free if you feel they don't deserve death."
Stepping forward now Edmond scowls noticeably." Lyssa is right, there is no such conveniences in the Stolen lands." His eyes settle heavily on Brennor." Such Idealism has no place at this point Brennor. If it was going to be pretty work I assure you they'd have no more need of us than the common man at that ridiculous ball we attended." His words are strong, his none unfaltering." I will not romanticize banditry. I see a man sneaking into our camp to steal our food stores and I'll cut him down just the same as if he'd drawn my own blood." His eyes almost look hollow as his own mention of blood draws his thoughts to a dark elsewhere in his memory." If you're interested in playing jury Brennor, I'll let you know just as I said before, Any bandit who crosses this expedition, barring overwhelming odds, shall consider his life forfeit to my steel and the steel of the Sword Lords."
Brennor mulls over his thoughts and after a while chooses his words carefully. As he speaks he scratches his beard.
"Edmond I respectfully disagree. A new land free from the failings of the old world is just the right place for idealism; lest we have no vision beyond a simply charter going forward. Yet the law of the Sword Lords does say that the lives of any unrepentant bandits we encounter are forfeit so if it's blood you wish, blood you you'll get. But, the charter says as well that the rogue must be unrepentant and I will do my best to ensure that any who seeks to right the wrongs of their past will have just opportunity. Rest assured I will not risk the safety of this venture or our companions with such behavior. Our survival and the survival of any innocents is and will always be paramount in my thoughts"
"I may have been too hasty with the idea of a jail, you are correct that such a structure would require continual support, but there is perhaps another way. In this Trading Post we approach there should surely be a smith who could forge some sort of manacle, then the matter becomes much more simple. A small palisade could easily be erected to contain captives and game, if these lands are anything like Restov, should be abundant. I would not presume to enlist any unwilling members of our band in such a scheme I just simply ask for the chance to offer an alternative to bloodshed."
Geoffrey shakes his head at what he assumes is the youthful idealism of Brennor.
"While I agree in principle that manacles might help to quell thoughts of escape, in practice, it is only a stop-gap measure, a temporary poultice attempting keep a lid on a festering problem. Manacles can be broken, or their locks picked; I shudder to think what would happen if any of the prisoners became free, or if a force came in to 'liberate' them...
...whilst 'swift justice' is harsh, nature, and life in general, is also harsh, rarely allowing second chances. It would be naive to think otherwise."
Hathin maintains his quiet during the discussions, tending to Malfini as he gets restless.
I would be much more likely to make an exception for some random thief than a member of a band. Perhaps a loner could be kept at Oleg's until Brevoyan soldiers passing through could take him to more civilized justice, but there's a reason why jails and courthouses need more guards in areas with organized crime. It wouldn't be fair to the residents (or strategically sound for us) to turn that trading post into a target before we're done.
I will also admit that if we expect to succeed -- and I wouldn't be here otherwise -- then it would be good to start pondering what kind of institutions to establish and how, to keep the peace where we're not. However, I think it's far too early to start deciding such, before we've defeated a single bandit.
Though not identical in our perspectives, it sounds to me like we're all clear on our own, and with a fair idea of what to expect from the rest. We don't need to decide every theoretical case before encountering it; now that I know there's some disagreement, I just want for us to be able to come to a quick decision should the question arise, without debating like this in front of our hypothetical prisoners. I think we're pretty much there.
As you enter Oleg's Trade Post it becomes obvious to you that the palisade is not much more protection than a blanket. Inside the post there are three buildings, one to the right of door, another one in front of it and the stables to the left a woman seems to be preparing lunch next to the central building and a man is working on its roof.
When they see you come in a flicker of fear passes the woman eyes, but goes away swiftly, as if you were not the fear she expected. She approaches you and asks. Welcome to Oleg's Trading Post, can I ask you your business here and help you with them?
Perception:
Leading his Horse, Tudan bows slightly and grins widely. I certainly hope so! We're off to explore the Greenbelt, and this looks a good place to make sure of our provisions. The smile slides off his face and his brow furrows. But I would also make sure of our safety, and to my eyes, you seemed briefly wary of our approach. If it isn't too personal, what would cause such caution? So that we can watch out for it ourselves.
Perception: +13 so auto-succeed.
Hathin dismounts as they approach and sees Malfini safely transferred to the saddle horn. Stretching out the kinks of travel, he leaves it to those more talkative to address the proprietors.
Brennor pulls the hood of his cloak back as they approach the trading post and keeps his hands away from any of his weapons. He waves at the woman and man and has wide smile on his face.
Good day Madam! We've been sent as agents of Brevoy to the Greenbelt as our companion here said. I am Brennor may I have the pleasure of your name?
Perception:
The woman smiles earnestly at the group and answers Oh, my name is Svetlana, We have had trouble lately... after listening to Brennor's mention of Brevoy she asks Are you by a lucky chance the guards we asked for, to help us with our bandit problem? she seems eager to hear your answer.
Geoffrey raises an eyebrow when he notices the man's demeanor.
Hmmm... I wonder exactly what has been going on around here?
However, Svetlana's words shake him from his introspection.
He turns to her with an apologetic smile.
"Technically, we are not the guards you sent for; we have been given a charter to explore and tame the wilds to the South of this fine establishment. However, we were given carte blanche to deal with the bandits in the area, so I think we should be able to help you with your 'problem'. Tell me, what exactly has been happening?"
Lysa briefly kneels down to set Kiki on the ground so she can get some exercise. She stands back up, listening to the woman's reply. I wonder if there will be any arguments on what to do with these bandits she speaks of?
He turns to her with an apologetic smile.
"Technically, we are not the guards you sent for; we have been given a charter to explore and tame the wilds to the South of this fine establishment. However, we were given carte blanche to deal with the bandits in the area, so I think we should be able to help you with your 'problem'. Tell me, what exactly has been happening?"
Tudan nods his head slightly along with Geoffrey's explanation, then waits attentively. Oh dear, it's happening again. He looks briefly at his hand, which had been petting his Horse's head mindlessly since they stopped. As if merely not giving him a name would keep me from getting too attached. He frowns at the air.
The woman seems disappointed when Geoffrey tells here they're not the guards she was expecting but nonetheless keeps an smile in her face as she answers Oh, there's a group of bandits who come here once a month and force us to give them almost all we have made in that time... they're due to come today or tomorrow... she waves at the man signaling for him to come down to talk to you My husband will explain it better
At the talk of bandits, Hathin grows wary - he checks Malfini's wing but the eagle is still not yet ready to fly.
Brennor's features darken slightly as the woman's words wash over him.
Bandits? How could I be so foolish to ignore Old-Oneye's sign?
"We may not be the guards you sent for, but I believe we were sent here at this moment in time by another power. I hope I do not speak too boldly, but I would volunteer myself and my companions if they deem this cause worthy, to defend you and your husband from these rogues. I cannot stand idly by and watch the innocent be preyed upon by such an aberrant practice as banditry. Can you or our husband tell us more? What are their numbers? To whom do they owe allegiance or are they a headless band of thugs?"
Brennor speaks with the enthusiasm of man who just had an epiphany, he gestures around the palisades and continues on.
"How are these defenses? Are they in need of repair?"
Perception
Lysa looks at the overly excited young man. "One question at a time may be best."