The Queen glances at an aide who departs, "I brought the army with me. You'll have a hundred paladins of Iomedae to fight. Obviously, larger forces should be avoided but this should be sufficient for this mission. The Sword itself, which you may not know isn't actually a sword, is likely in the Drezen Keep, in the heart of the city."
She looks around and notices yet another messenger or aide holds a hand up to her. She says, "Is there anything else? You meet your army, and the three, for lack of a better word, commanders, tomorrow at dawn on the north side of the city."
"Your Majestry, if it pleases, what is the Sword of Valor?" Sir Bastion asks.
Ma'am, does the army you brought with you have the means to travel quickly to Icerift Castle, or will we need to perform a forced march. If my memory serves, it is over 200 miles and that is the last defensible position that far north."
I believe the queen has stated it is a magical banner carried by the Inheritor herself during the Shining Crusade. But I too would be interested in hearing what properties it is believed to possess.
Prior to the meeting with the queen:
In response to Arc's introduction to Reiko, Paritosh examines the newcomer before speaking. "I would be the last person to question Irabeth's choice of replacements to support Sir Bastion's team and its missions. I too am only recently come to this group." He waits a moment before proceeding, [b"I am Paritosh Jumbalm, late of Qadira, Paresha specifically. My people are horsemen. I was born to the horse myself. I came to join the crusade, but found I did not have the taste for, ummm, shall we call it the rigidity of a military organization? After mucking about a bit, riding along with the crusaders and fighting some demons, I was eventually requested by Irabeth to join up with Sir Bastion. It hasn't been long, but so far, I believe I have contributed."[/b] He looks to Sir Bastion for approval.
"I am strongest when mounted on poor Rocinian, and am proficient with both bow and sword. I have just recently laid aside the traditional scimitar, in favor of this monster," he unslings a large falchion showing it off proudly, "but I am still able to use bow or blade, or lance, when needed."
Paritosh mutters to Sir Bastion on the side, "a hundred of them no humor paladin types? No offense to you good sir, but I've had enough 'dress right dress,' 'boots and saddles' and more than a bit of 'yes sir, whatever you say sir.' Keep me out of the regimented life, and we'll be fine."
Sir Bastion snikers a bit at Paritosh's comments.
"I understand that all are not meant for the life of a knight of faith, but you, Paritosh Jumbal, have proven yourself a friend and ally in arms, and as such, I would never force the path I walk on you. Even with that said, I will continue to attempt to bring back the redeemable to the Inheritor's grace whenever I can."
I will continue to attempt to bring back the redeemable to the Inheritor's grace whenever I can."[/b]
The queen looks between those asking about the banner and nods her head saying, "Despite the name, it’s NOT a sword. It’s a battle standard—an artifact, indeed Arcessentes, once used by Iomedae herself during the Shining Crusade. The church loaned the banner to the First Mendevian Crusade and allowed it to hang in Drezen, where it bolstered crusader morale and, perhaps more importantly, warded against demonic attacks, deceptions, and even teleportation."
She rests her hands on the table briefly, and she looks wearier than when you first came in for a brief flicker of time. She gathers herself and once again looks like a young but tired queen. "Sir Paritosh," she snickers ever so quickly, "you won't be expected to walk or dress any way but your own. The army is yours to command. I'll be sending some experts in various things to help you of course. We’re sending three specialists with you. Aron Kir was a cleric of Shelyn here in Kenabres before the temple was destroyed—he can help with healing as needed, but he’s also quite knowledgeable about demons and their tactics. Sosiel Vaenic is an expert on siege tactics, traps, inf iltration, scouting, and the like; he’s where you’ll be getting your map of the Citadel, incidentally. And lastly, there’s Nurah Dendiwhar. She’ll be supporting you with her bardic magic, but she’s also an expert on the region and knows more about Drezen than anyone in Kenabres at this point, I’ll wager. It’s not a large army, but you’ll be able to move without attracting attention, and quickly. Trust me, that’s an advantage when it comes to demonic foes. They hit hard, so it’s best not to give them the opportunity. A regular march should take about a week, as it is 160 miles from here and you'll be mounted."
"The difference is noted Ms. Queen. I would be remiss if I didn't ask about the good feed for the horses, Rocinian is a trooper, and will eat whatever is available, but given a choice he prefers the finer things in life."
"Ma'am, thank you for your providing us with these experts and army. With your leave, we will go and make our preparations to leave in the morning." Sir Bastions says with a bow and waits to be dismissed.
Once dismissed and out of the presence of Queen Galfrey...
Sir Bastion turns to the party, "I guess we should meet the other knights and specialists under our new command. And see about getting enough provisions for our trip from the Defender's Heart. Maybe Horgus Gwerm has additional supplies that could be useful also, he did have numerous stores available."
The wizard looks somewhat ill at ease at having been given a command and is pleased to follow Sir Bastion's lead. I think I can manage a horse it its not too spirited. he comments.
During the group's preparations for this mission Arcessentes comes in carrying 4 small bundles reverently. Some of you were not there when all this started and have only heard of the epic battle between the ancient silver dragon Terendelev and Khorramzadeh, the Storm King of the Worldwound and how Terendelev fell. In his dying breath Terendelev saved a number of young and brash adventurers. I was there and collected as his final gift to those who opposed the demons these scales, each infused with a part of the dragon.
He lays the bundles on the table. Though I have claimed this scale. he indicates the third scale. I ask that each of you handle each scale in turn to understand the power of each and how they might help us in the coming battles. But only touch one scale at a time for if you are in contact with more than one scale you will feel its magic and be unable to call on its power.
As you pick up the scale you gain a sense of incredible, almost crushing, sadness. What seems like an eternity but is only a moment later you get a sense of determination and hope. Terendelev's hope. In you. Suddenly, you understand that the scale has power...the power to change. Three times per day as a standard action, a scale can be used to cast alter self. While disguised, the target gains a +4 bonus on all Bluff checks made against evil creatures.
The first scale you pick up almost drives you to your knees with an overwhelming sense of sadness and loss. Finally, you get a sense of hope and determination. Terendelev's hope at seeing a group touched by fate. You immediately understand that the scale has power...the power to protect you. Three times per day as a standard action, a scale can be used to cast resist elements—but only against electricity or cold.
The scale draws you like a moth to flame...and the moment you touch it you understand the meaning of the term soul-crushing despair as a sadness greater than you can voice washes over you. Release is granted when a greater feeling of hope and determination come over you...hope and determination as great as Terendelev. The scale comes with knowledge of the dragon's mystical flight. Three times per day as a standard action, a scale can be used to cast levitate. A pillar of roiling clouds rises below the levitating object or creature, growing and shrinking with the target’s altitude. This pillar is 5 feet in diameter (regardless of the target’s size) and provides concealment (20% miss chance) to any creature or object wholly contained within.
The image of Terendelev, the ancient silver dragon defender who perished at the hands of the Storm King washes over you. Great sadness fills you as the crippling blow lands and the fate of death steals your thoughts. But hope...and determination...give you sanctuary as five fate-touched individuals fall into your gaze. The scale gives a sense of holy power to you. Three times per day as a standard action, a scale can be used to cast align weapon, but only to make a weapon lawful or good. Unlike a normal align weapon spell, this effect can be cast on an unarmed strike or natural weapon.
Three of you must claim one of these scales to carry for the group. Doing so both grants us a small portion of the dragon's power but also honers Terendelev by allowing him to continue to support the fight the only way possible for him. Each of you should consider your strengths and weaknesses and if a scale calls to you speak for it and the group will decide who carries which.
Pointing at the fourth scale, Paritosh states, "I would honor the great wyrm by carrying that one, if permitted."
Having only newly joined the group, Reiko defers for the moment, observing the reactions and assessments of her colleagues.
Sir Bastion steps back a pace, offering the others the opportunity to investigate and claim a scale first.
As your plans are solidified, you have another meeting with the Queen as you are preparing to depart with the small army. She motions you in to a small room, with only a couple of aides, and says "I wish this could have more pomp and circumstance, but your bravery and service warrant this, and your mission demands the timing. I hereby dub all of thee, Knights of the Fifth Crusade. Sengral, make a note of it." The aide to the left nods and scribbles. The Queen resumes speaking, "This title grants permission for each of you to lead an army...or rule land. More immediately though, it allows me to bestow a boon to each of you ere departure. I give you these righteous medals, the Righteous Medal of Clarity and the Righteous Medal of Command. I will keep informed of your activities, the crown rewards those who do great service to it. Come, let us away to your command."
She stands up swiftly and begins to walk out of the room. She waits until you all come out, and begins to walk out of the Heart towards the edge of town. She takes you to where the armies are billeted and takes you a group of knights, who fall quickly into line as you arrive. She waves the salutes away and puts the troops at ease. She look at you and says "These are they. I've never been on for ceremony, although I do endure it, and you have a need for haste. I wish you luck in your mission. I hope and pray to Iomedae that I hear of your victory soon!"
She looks around for a moment and sighs. "Of course, you may have to wait until Aron, Sosiel, and Nurah arrive. If they weren't so damned effective at what they do...Ah. Here they are. Consider yourselves introduced."
Three figures walk up with a yawn and nod.
The female of the three that approached looks somewhat...disdainfully...up her nose at you. A halfling that you would otherwise describe as unassuming says, "I am Nurah Dendiwhar. I am an expert in early Crusade and ancient Sarkoris. I must admit, at first I was not pleased to leave Her Majesty's side, but the more I've heard of your exploits and, " she look at you knowingly, "character, I have become more elated at the prospect of offering my aid in this endeavor."
A man, human, haggard and beleaguered looking, he yawns again and gives a half-hearted salute. "I'm Aron Kir and I'm here because of my expertise with traps, sharp eyes, and my knowledge of Citadel Drezen. I'll be doing my best." Suddenly Nurah cuts in, "When you're able."
The last human male, dark-skinned and gentle looking, says "Nurah. Enough...you know my presence brings out the best in Aron. And he's a fine man when his best is brought forth." he says with a little venom. He looks at you and continues, "I am Sosiel Vaenic and I am a humble cleric serving Shelyn. I will be, I suppose, providing healing and some combat might as I can. I can also sketch then paint important scenes, including yourselves if you're interested!"
Aron chuckles and says, "Easy Sosiel. While your work is magnificent, it may not be the most important thing you do right now."
Sosiel sheepishly looks down and nods.
Nurah sighs and says, "Yes now we are all introduced and offering our services, might I suggest we start to move! It's a 160 mile trip. We can cover about 36 miles a day if there's no mishaps."
The queen nods and dismisses herself, wishing you luck one last time.
As your plans are solidified, you have another meeting with the Queen as you are preparing to depart with the small army. She motions you in to a small room, with only a couple of aides, and says "I wish this could have more pomp and circumstance, but your bravery and service warrant this, and your mission demands the timing. I hereby dub all of thee, Knights of the Fifth Crusade. Sengral, make a note of it." The aide to the left nods and scribbles. The Queen resumes speaking, "This title grants permission for each of you to lead an army...or rule land. More immediately though, it allows me to bestow a boon to each of you ere departure. I give you these righteous medals, the Righteous Medal of Clarity and the Righteous Medal of Command. I will keep informed of your activities, the crown rewards those who do great service to it. Come, let us away to your command."
Also not being into pomp, Paritosh gently inclines his head as he accepts the medals, "thank you indeed," he remarks, as he slips them into a pocket.
Later, he affixes them onto the interior of his gear, so that the will function, but are not outwardly apparent.
Struck silent by all the honors the Queen has conferred on her by mere association with the heroes of Kenabres, Rikka gives her a deep bow as she departs. Feeling unworthy and determined to prove her worth, she heads off and quickly returns with her horse - a powerful chestnut stallion with a splash of white across his face. She pats the animal affectionately, speaks to him in her curious tongue, and swings into the saddle with an easiness that speaks of long experience.
She waits patiently for the others to mount.
Can't we just get on with this? I'm tired of spending my time in the stables. The chance to run a bit would be nice. What say you dog?
Sir Bastion busies himself with finishing outfitting the armies provisions by seeking out Horgus Gwerm and explain their needs for light weight potable supplies for a mission for the queen.
"Sir Gwerm, I appreciate all the support you have provided for Kenabres and her survivors, but I was wondering if you may have any additional supplies and provisions, that would aid us in a raid upon the demons." he says as he answers what questions he can to Horgus Gwerm with out revealing the exact details of the mission.
Cassandra enters the Heart, and quickly glances around the assembly. As expected, its full of people, but there's only a select group of people currently holding a collection of identical medals, and Cassandra heads straight towards them. Inwardly frowning at how best to introduce herself, Cassandra decides confidence is her best bet and opens her mouth to speak, hijacking the conversation that had started between Sosiel, Nurah, and Aron.
"Excuse me" Cassandra responds, with a trace of irritation in her tone, always hating being ignored, "fascinating as it is I'm sure, to meet all three of you (she indicates the three NPCs), but I'm also here to introduce myself to these...knights of the Crusade. My name is Cassandra, although several people have claimed its a little bit of a mouthful, so Cass, or Cassie is also fine."
Cassandra considers for a moment, wondering if she should say something along the lines of "Calistria has called me here", but decides that would be too melodramatic. "I understand that each of you recieved some divine gifts, and as someone that gained similar powers, I took it upon myself to meet you all, and perhaps get a clearer understanding about the individuals that recieved the same blessing as I did."
From her saddle, a slender and plain Tian woman in light and lacquered armor offers a cautious sitting half-bow to the newcomer, a little surprised by her choice of clothing. "I'm called Reiko, a... knight-errant."
"I wish this could have more pomp and circumstance, but your bravery and service warrant this, and your mission demands the timing. I hereby dub all of thee, Knights of the Fifth Crusade.
Paritosh places one hand firmly on the pommel of Rocinian's saddle, and leans well down off the top of the horse, removing his hat and giving a sweeping bow, in a movement that is as much a display of ridership and acrobatics, as it is chivalry to a lady. "Greetings Cassandra, I am Paritosh Jumbal, apparently a knight, despite my own predisposition against such orderly assemblages with which we are now apparently associated."
Rocinian seems unimpressed by what is happening, but gently shifts his weight to account for Paritosh's movement.
Cassandra regards the riders thoughtfully. "I see both of you appear to be rather expert riders - I was never very good at riding horses, but I can appreciate the skill when I see it, and both of you seem competent."
Cassandra pauses for a moment, before smiling slightly, "So do both of you consider yourselves rogues, or wanderers for want of a better term? Someone that appreciates the freedom that the saddle gives you, well, if true, thats something I, like most Calistrians, fully understand".
Aron, Sosiel, and Nurah each look surprised for a moment, until Nurah speaks out, "You're the so-called half-angel aren't you? Hopefully your...calling...can be useful against real demons."[b] Before Aron or Sosiel can say anything the halfling stumps off, calling over her shoulder [b]"We should move out soon."
Reiko struggles to answer Cassie's question in a way she'll understand. "I am ronin now but once I was a 'knight' to my dead lord. I serve this cause and my lord's... but I cannot be a 'knight' without a living lord. This is the way of the Dragon Empire."
"Ah Nurah, I'd say that its wonderful to see you but then I'd be lying" Cassandra remarks, entirely unconcerned with the halflings outburst. "Why don't you run along now, and I'll pretend that I never heard anything resembling a slight against me, we all know how...touchy Calistrian's can be about this whole revenge thing..."
Noting Nurah backing off, Cassandra's smile slips a little wider, before turning back to Reiko. "So you follow a cause to a similar degree that I would, I'm glad we have some things in common. Are you two planning on handling a special mission together or...?"
Reiko throws a glance at Paritosh, not entirely sure of the question's implications, "Or what?" she asks guilelessly.
Cassandra is the very picture of innocence. "I would assume, to the casual observer that either you two are riding out on some important mission...or you two are riding out to find some privacy, perhaps its both?"
Reiko mouths the word privacy. Her brow furrows as she translates the word silently and mulls its implications. Her eyes widen as Cassie's meaning finally strikes home. The ronin leans over her saddle and stares hard at the Calistrian priestess... then a smile spreads across her face and she bursts into laughter, loud enough to make her horse step sideways. She slaps her armored thigh in delight. "We go into the Worldwound to slay demons and recapture fallen Drezen! I have no thought to pillow this man. He is yours, if you'd have him. Best you do it now before you are saddle sore."
"Haha, ladies, please, there is surely no need to squabble over Paritosh, there is plenty of him to go around. However, the good lady," he emphasizes the word good, "and I were not off for privacy. It is as she said, we are off to war, which I will grant can often be quite similar if done correctly."
"Ah, well if its fighting demons, then if its all the same to you then I might tag along. If I understand things correctly, Nurah might be accompanying you, and it would amuse me greatly if I ended showing her up in battle. Besides, mission like this one? I think you need all the assistance you can get."
Reiko nods. "All that are willing, are welcome, Lady Cassandra." She adds with a note of genuine concern, "You will need a horse and a good saddle. We will be riding far and fast. If you are unused to such travel, it will be... painful."