Ry ponders Lily's words on her family and the others moving on from Oleg's. She takes the initiative on behalf of her companions to broach the subject of the Stag Lord's prior residence whilst sipping on her tea and nibbling on the toast and delicious blueberry jam.
"Mistress Lily, our party has recently come into possession of the Stag Lord's fortress. We have plans to forge a settlement there and we hope to conduct a conversation with all the travellers later this evening as soon as everyone has returned to the trading post. How would you feel if I asked if you and your family would like to make a home at the fortress? We require good, hardworking, skilled people, and I believe not only can the fortress serve as a home to you and your kin, it can provide the security, protection and community you seek for your family. It could be a new beginning for your family. For all of us. As I mentioned, our party hopes to cover more information in a group discussion later this day, but I wanted to mention something to you beforehand, and possibly to the Mistresses Patty and Selendria, as well. What do you think, Mistress Lily? Would you consider coming back with us to the Fortress and making a new start? I know this decision is not one you can make on your own and that you must speak with your folk. I would just like to respectfully gauge your feelings on this matter at the present time." Ry looks sincerely at the Holbyt woman, hoping she was not being pushy by asking, but excited at the prospect of people like Lily and her family joining them at the Fortress and building a community.
Lily’s eyes widen at this suggestion
”Are ye asking me formal if I want a place to stay? Why, that would be lovely, dear, indeed! Ye already know that a place to call home would be fine and lovely. Yet a rickety cottage in the woods seems hardly the place to set up, as it were. Oleg’s place is by a trade road, and lots of open space. What does this Stag Lord camp have to offer?”
You can see that once her initial surprise has worn off that she is now moved a to a brisk business manner. Looking at you with a smile, she folds her hands and watches you.
”The best thing to do, I reckon, is to gather up all the lads and lasses here; the family and such, and put yer proposal to us all so we can all hear it plain and everyone can offer opinions on it. I can’t speak fer none but my own folk; but we’re looking fer a place to call our own; not renting a room or so in a log compound, if I may be so bold. Having our own houses or so forth – we came up here for our own land. But having a safe place to winter the lands would be a good thing.”
She sips her tea contemplatively.
”Still, I be interested in hearing more. How long this place be from us? How many lads could sit in the walls? Does it got room fer stores and such? Is it at least as safe as Oleg’s? Cause he has pretty tall wall and rooms inside his walls, and a whole tower to cover us, should bad folk come by. If the snows get bad, why… we can all collapse back into Oleg’s walls, and be safe there with the stables and the rooms, and have a tall wall to keep out villains.”
She eyes you primly.
”Well, what does yer bandit camp have compared to that?” she asks.
”Nay, wait – why not get yer thoughts together; the plan on what ye mean to offer us, and what it be costing us and all the particulars and such, then, ye can give us all the details together, fer all the folk here to hear, and then we can go from there together. Right now, ye just got ideas and suggestions; but do ye got a plan? That is; particulars fer me and my folk? First we need the plans, then we give better answers,” she adds, munching more toast and jam.
”Oh yeah.. ye mentioned on speaking to others about things about the other lasses here. What be that?” she asks, sipping another taste of the tea.
Ka'etil lounges among the cushions, smiling at the lavish surroundings. "Ah, but of course.," Kae says with a wry smile. "This is Khrovan... um... Khrovan, Holy Knight of Erastil. He was beset by bandits on out way to face the Stag Lord when we found him. He's been a great help, as both a healer and a surprisingly fierce warrior. In fact, it was he who dealt the killing blow the the Bearded Devil that the Baron's dark priest summoned. It was quite impressive." I was unfortunately unable to land a blow against the creature, but managed to slay the abomination's summoner."
Khrovin looks slightly bashful at this praise that has been heaped upon him. What he did with the dispatching of the devil and the like he did because it was required. For him it has been as natural as breathing. That Kae had taken so little of the credit for himself was strange, for if Kae had not been flanking the devil on many occasions, using his talents to distract the creature, then many of Khrovin's mighty swings would not have hit. The slaying of the Stag Lord and the demon were a joint effort, and none of us could have done it without the rest of us. Truly the sum of our skills was greater than the individual parts. I fight well, and have some skill with healing, be the source magical or through the use of common herbs and the like. With weapons I am skilled with the sword and the bow, although my sword work needs much practise
Khrovin stands tall once more, and simply states with a smile Have you any other questions?
"No..." Aliento says softly "I believe you've already provided me all the answers I need."
"I'll take back my sword, but for safe-keeping, as it is an heirloom from the Wood, but I think it is not necessary to surrender your equipment like this." Then he thinks for a moment on the cleric, and asks, "Hermia? I met her the day i arrived. She did not strike me as evil, or dangerous ... just ... odd. And is Erastil not Good by nature? You would know better than I," Ka'etil asks Dashan. "Should he not deny his power to those who turn to darkness?"
While he disagrees with the need, he'll do nothing to stop Khrovin from disarming himself. He just wants to keep close tabs on his blade.
"News of this Baron is most worrisome, and more brazen acts on his part are not something that i wish to deal with, especially alone. His servants are clearly powerful and dangerous. He seems to be an foe that enemies should unite in order to combat. Remain one singular and strong front, undivided by suspicion and infighting."
To think that I had danced with her so happily, and Alaric and Ry seemed to trust her so, yet she absconded with a powerful weapon, and may have been touched by darkness so. I'll need more information about this woman... Kae is not sure of his feelings in this. He understands being a victim of darkness, and the pain being touched by evil may cause even if it is not of one's own volition, but taking a weapon of a dark priest is cause for worry.
"you will have to tell me more of what you know about this girl. I would have trusted her as I do the rest of this company, had she not so suddenly left. This worries me, and i wish to know all you do about her regarding these possessions and dark priests. It is best to know one's enemy before facing it."
I have no foul intentions against any within this party, not even Brett Rowan who quizzed me so strongly about what it was that I stood for. If it would make my party feel more safe around me, then I will surrender both my armour and weapons to them until such a date that they feel I can be trusted with those same articles once more. I will also refrain from spell casting of any kind if they so wish it, up to and including the channelling of my dear Erastil's power. The only thing I will have to do with a weapon is to finish the bow that I have been making for Kae.
Your concerns are indeed valid, and I believe the extreme measures that I have offered freely are therefore warranted. I know a little of the cleric that came before me, although very little has really been told other than that she left in bad circumstances.
In the meantime, what can you tell me about this Scarlet Brotherhood? Is there anything that I can do to help research the way to destroy them once more, but so completely that they can never rise once more.
Khrovin completes what he was saying before offering his weapons first to Kae and then to the Lord Aliento. Once one of them takes the weapons, he will begin to remove his armour, once piece at a time, handing it once again to either Kae or the Lord Aliento. He attempts to keep his dignity throughout, although it may well be difficult.
Sir Dashan waves at your efforts with his hand.
”Nay, cease thy actions. Thou mistook the nature of the signs, I suspect… My brother feels caution is better then none. Or do I misinterpret thy intentions, brother?” Sir Dashan says, turning to Aliento.
”You understand me completely, brother,” he says politely, then turns to Khrovin, a frown on his features.
”And I agree – stop with this foolishness,” he says somewhat sharply, looking at Khrovin.
”What, do you think we are afraid of you stabbing us? That, perhaps, if you put your sword aside taht you can ease our mind? Or do you think that we fear you so much because you are some unstoppable titan – yet by removing your armor you somehow are now able to dissuade our fears? We are not concerned that you would do to us in this tent; or we should not have invited you in. No! Rather, we fear what destiny clings to you, like a dark shroud… Who knows what Fate the Priest of Erestil should bring us… or who this priest, or priestess, may be? We do not know… You may be good intentioned and good hearted besides, and yet by virtue of coincidence or chance unlock some foul thing by mere happenstance. And indeed, this priest of grim destiny may be one other then you! On this, the signs can be mixed... we know only to be cautious of a priest of Erestil, but perhaps my words alone do not suffice...”
Aliento mutters the last, his thin white hands sliding over the bones, then placing them into the cup. He rattles them back and forth again, the click-clack, click-clack echoes weirdly in your ears as he throws the bones again and again.
You can see the pattern has not changed on the rug… always the same.
Sir Dashan checks his motion as he reaches for them to show you further proof. He turns to you both.
"Thou hast asked another question, and on this matter we may better serve thee, for thy seek information. Thou hast asked on the nature of the Scarlet Brotherhood? I shall give thee some knowledge in this; for all folk may be as friends if they are an enemy to the One enemy…”
”The Scarlet Brotherhood was formed long ago, and it was made by a man – a lieutenant to that foul traitor, Tar-Baphon; this man was named Sied Miorgrod – a man birthed of our own nation long ago. He gave his followers great power, but it was bonded to them with the powers of the Inferno. The very same place that devils are summoned from… The followers of Sied Miorgrod were given mounts of great strength; some said they sat astride Wyverns… So you see; your words cause us great unease.”
Sir Dashan stands up, and begins to pace about the tent, his face grim, his hand on his sword, even as Aliento slides the bones and the cup into a pouch at his side, leaning back to watch you both through slitted eyes.
”Therefore, my friends… thy see the cause for our concern? Thou hast met with folk aligned to an enemy of our lord. This same lord; an Ustalavian – his own men bear the mark of a wyvern on them? Further, these men who bear this symbol of the wyvern… they have summoned a devil not a demon, as thy had suggested, but in truth; a devil – a creature from the Inferno, not the Abyss… even the same place worshipped by the leader of this ancient cult.”
He stops in his pacing, and turns to look at you all.
”Now do thy see the cause for my concern? This Sied Miorgrod gave his worship to no god or goddess, but to devils – he made his cult one that followed the Inferno; he sacrificed people to obtain greater and greater power… he had searched for greater sacrifices… blood more pure, more sacred; yes, we believed this may even be why he searched for the lass Dasha, but now we are not certain if that was why she was searched for, or if they searched for her at all… “
Aliento also stands, looking down on you both with a flat expression.
”Yes… but we only know facts, and more facts are as demonstrated; an agent of Ustalav came to seek for a pure sacrifice. Men bound to that agent wearing armor that bears the mark of a wyvern have come – the same mark worn by a cult that worshipped devils centuries ago – and the same group that you destroyed, their very last action, so it would seem, was to summon a devil – even as was custom by the cult as old.”
”So you see our concern,” Aliento persists grimly.
”If these cultists searched for this “Dasha”, seeking for the perfect sacrifice, a young girl who they believed would help them in their cause… Yet it seemed that Dasha may not have been this girl. Well; who then? I do not know, but I have seen already that the chief magi of your companions has recently returned with a new charge – a young child, a girl child… “
”Aye, and could the cultists be after the girl? Would that be their intended target?” Sir Dashan interrupts abruptly.
”Peace, brother,” Aliento says holding up his hand ”we do not yet know these are the cultists. It may yet be coincidence… though the facts seem to agree with that theory,” he says with a shake of his head.
”Still, we do not know; and we cannot know, not yet. But… we must know; for our lord must know the facts fully, not idle speculation or unfounded guesses.”
He turns his gaze upon you both.
”Now you see why I ask about the girl who travels with you? I sense on her strong magic; indeed, I have have read her arua on her, for it is potent... And I also sense that she possesses a spirit of great good and high purity – if such a cult were looking for a valuable sacrifice for some Diabolic or Infernal purpose? And a young child, quite probably a virgin? Such a sacrifice would be potent indeed – she must be protected, for if you have killed these men, I fear that more will come.”
”Aye! Now, we have answered thy questions… it would be best if thou took us next to the girl; we would know her better and see if our warnings are in vain, or if they portend to some greater thing – or, gods willing, nothing but pure coincidence,” Sir Dashan adds, turning to stare at you both intently.
”Yes… gods willing,” Aliento adds, almost sardonically ”and you, put your shirt on – and your armor and gear. If such creatures are about it would be better to be prepared then standing there unarmed,” he says finishing, looking at Khrovin with the ghost of a smile.
Lily’s eyes widen at this suggestion
”Are ye asking me formal if I want a place to stay? Why, that would be lovely, dear, indeed! Ye already know that a place to call home would be fine and lovely. Yet a rickety cottage in the woods seems hardly the place to set up, as it were. Oleg’s place is by a trade road, and lots of open space....
"Mistress Lily, aye, we have established some preliminary plans. But I must admit that since the Fortress is newly acquired, they are still a work in progress at this juncture. My companions and I will address those particulars and open the floor to the good folk at Oleg's. The Fortress itself is 60 miles due south of Oleg's. It appears to be able to house 200 people comfortably, but we will know more once we extensively map out the structure. I am pleased you would consider my offer at this stage and I would gladly give you more information, however it may be wiser to wait until we are all gathered together and can hear the information as a group." Ariarh smiles at the good Holbyt female, who reminds her of an aunt figure.
"In regard to Mistresses Patty and Selendria, I would seek their counsel on portents and potions, respectively, and offer them and their families a chance to join us at the Stag Lord's Fortress."
"I'd leave it to Alaric to speak to you of the girl, but i can tell you that in the place where we found her, there was a foul creature conducting deranged experiments, and it held her captive. He had heard tell of Ustalavians coming and set to pack his things and leave, ending his experimentation. It is likely that this foul being also suspected that the Baron's men were after his prize, as he likely saw it."
To think that I had danced with her so happily, and Alaric and Ry seemed to trust her so, yet she absconded with a powerful weapon, and may have been touched by darkness so. I'll need more information about this woman... Kae is not sure of his feelings in this. He understands being a victim of darkness, and the pain being touched by evil may cause even if it is not of one's own volition, but taking a weapon of a dark priest is cause for worry.
** spoiler omitted **
You move to the flap of the door of the tent. For the two from Ustalav, they believe the interview to be concluded, and are now eager to be sure that the girl who travels with Alaric is safe.
As they move forward, Aliento says to you both:
"In truth, Erastil is a good god, yes. But that does not prevent even his best intentioned servants from having a dark Fate cling to them - no matter what their intentions may be."
"And as for this lass you spoke of? Yes, you are correct in your guesses, it is she who you named... But wither her plans were intended or if she suffered a curse from beyond the realms of man, I cannot say. I merely stated facts; she left you to return to a temple, and with the same journey she took with her a sacred weapon that her companions rested from the hands of a fallen and undead priest of Erestil... what was this weapon to her? Why did she take it? Where did she go? And what was her true intention?"
"This girl, I do not know her, but to see the marks of ancient beings of darkness that are more foul then even many gods that are called evil were on her... Yet there were other strange things about her... Odd things, you might say. Yes.... it was odd that she was found alone in a bandit camp just in time for you to rescue her, - not slain, but there, right for your party to rescue? Odd that the same bandit camp had letters in it that attached the camp to the very same Ustalavians who moved east to find you? Odd that after she was rescued that at each step of your advance she fought and bickered with all - causing chaos and diverting the companions from their intended plan? Odd that she alone advanced to anyone of dark or evil intent, as if seeking it, as if embracing it... Odd that only she died, and was singled out- by good fortune, perhaps? For though she died she was then revived, brought back from beyond death - but only revived at the one place that she may be revived - but only after facing an undead fallen priest. Then, after her revival, she took the very weapon the priest possesed and left you all?"
He watched you out of the corner of his eye.
"So you see... I have no facts to judge a person; but the evidence I have shown seems rather - damning? And now that she is gone... who knows what poison she may be spreading? Or perhaps... I am merely guessing? Somehow, I do not think so, though," he adds with a flat expression.
Lily’s eyes widen at this suggestion
”Are ye asking me formal if I want a place to stay? Why, that would be lovely, dear, indeed! Ye already know that a place to call home would be fine and lovely. Yet a rickety cottage in the woods seems hardly the place to set up, as it were. Oleg’s place is by a trade road, and lots of open space....
"Mistress Lily, aye, we have established some preliminary plans. But I must admit that since the Fortress is newly acquired, they are still a work in progress at this juncture. My companions and I will address those particulars and open the floor to the good folk at Oleg's. The Fortress itself is 60 miles due south of Oleg's. It appears to be able to house 200 people comfortably, but we will know more once we extensively map out the structure. I am pleased you would consider my offer at this stage and I would gladly give you more information, however it may be wiser to wait until we are all gathered together and can hear the information as a group." Ariarh smiles at the good Holbyt female, who reminds her of an aunt figure.
"In regard to Mistresses Patty and Selendria, I would seek their counsel on portents and potions, respectively, and offer them and their families a chance to join us at the Stag Lord's Fortress."
"Two hundred?" she gasps.
"Well, that be a large ammount of space, no mistake... but sixty miles is a long way. How safe is it? Is there decent sized walls? What about fresh water or woods for building cottages? And food? Nay, don't be answering it now... ye put down yer full plan when all the folk get back and we answer it best then," she says with a friendly nod, and offers you more tea.
It would seem then that we have another foe out there that potentially wishes us ill. Still, what is new eh? Khrovin's more flippant remark attempts to hide a deep-seated worry.
"Well, best to be aware, and vigilant regarding that young woman. Thank you for the warning, I had not considered danger coming from among our ranks, but I also did not know of her history." Kae sighs. Such is life, is it not. Nothing can be taken for granted or trusted. "Well when you are able to tell us, I would like to know more about what sort of threat this baron poses. He is likely to continue to plague us as time goes on, seeing that we seem to be in his way. I do hope we can count on your support in combating this foe until your lord recalls you from these lands, and hope that we are able to send you home having earned your esteem and respect."
It would seem then that we have another foe out there that potentially wishes us ill. Still, what is new eh? Khrovin's more flippant remark attempts to hide a deep-seated worry.
"I speak only of possibilities... It is also possible that nothing may come of that one... We must see, though... In the end I prefer facts to speculation. But in this case, the facts seem to bear out..." he adds, the last almost to himself.
"Well, best to be aware, and vigilant regarding that young woman. Thank you for the warning, I had not considered danger coming from among our ranks, but I also did not know of her history." Kae sighs. Such is life, is it not. Nothing can be taken for granted or trusted. "Well when you are able to tell us, I would like to know more about what sort of threat this baron poses. He is likely to continue to plague us as time goes on, seeing that we seem to be in his way. I do hope we can count on your support in combating this foe until your lord recalls you from these lands, and hope that we are able to send you home having earned your esteem and respect."
"Our duties preclude such help - we are here formally to obseve and collect data for our lord..." Aliento begins patiently.
"Nonsense, brother!" Sir Dashan interupts.
"They are no the legal custodians of this land; a land which our own enemy has closeted itself in, for a time. If the lord of the land petitions us, or any of our brethern, surely it is our duty to aid them? And who more shall we stand against better if not our own enemy?" he adds with a somewhat stern chastisement.
Aliento nods, and shrugs somewhat, as if conceding the point.
"It's true; but now, slow close to knowing the truth of what is going on... the facts so evident... I apologize; there is nothing I despise more than a mystery just out of my reach. I should be able to solve this... and I cannot - yet. But in time, I shall," he adds with a polite bow of assent to Sir Dashan.
Ariarh happily agrees to another cup of tea and spends the time in easy conversation with Lily. Ry then politely excuses herself and hugs the Holbyt woman one more time before heading toward the Ironhorse's caravan in search of Mistress Patty.
"Hello, Mistress Patty? Are you about? It's Ariarh, Ariarh Kane. May I come in, please?"
"It is good to see you again, Mistress Patty. We've only just returned and I wanted to come by and see you, have a word, if I may."
Ariarh once again explains what they have succeeded in doing and how they are now in the possession of the Stag Lord's fortress. Ry is concerned about the future and is wondering if Mistress Patty could read the cards for her.
"Have any unusual signs or portents been made available to you this past week, Mistress Patty? I ask as I am concerned with what the future has in store or the near future to be exact. Will you read my cards, good lady? I would seek your counsel and your foresight at this time."
Ariarh happily agrees to another cup of tea and spends the time in easy conversation with Lily. Ry then politely excuses herself and hugs the Holbyt woman one more time before heading toward the Ironhorse's caravan in search of Mistress Patty.
"Hello, Mistress Patty? Are you about? It's Ariarh, Ariarh Kane. May I come in, please?"
"It is good to see you again, Mistress Patty. We've only just returned and I wanted to come by and see you, have a word, if I may."
Ariarh once again explains what they have succeeded in doing and how they are now in the possession of the Stag Lord's fortress. Ry is concerned about the future and is wondering if Mistress Patty could read the cards for her.
"Have any unusual signs or portents been made available to you this past week, Mistress Patty? I ask as I am concerned with what the future has in store or the near future to be exact. Will you read my cards, good lady? I would seek your counsel and your foresight at this time."
"Well, lass, I'd be happy to help you on that matter... I am also right pleased you finished the bandit scum! But reading signs is a ticklish business... there are often many things to sort out when seeking the mysteries."
She watches you for a moment.
"If you would have me ply the Fates, I'd be better suited if you told me what you wish to know," she adds the last, lighting a pipe from an errant coal on the tiny metal stove.
Returning his sword to Khrovan, Ka'etil whispering, "Do not give this blade away lightly, or ever. It is dear to me, but you are likely in greater need of it than I, for the time-being." as they leave the tent of the Ustalavians.
Kae exits the tent, and looks around, seeing his companions have dispersed and are taking care of various businesses of their own, he glances around to find David Grear, and Tucker Banks, two fellows he'd met his first day in town. He finds them inside with Khald, the Dwarf. "Evening gentlemen. I'd like to speak with you all about a proposition. Now I don't want to try to convince you of anything right now, but I'd like to broach the subject, take any questions you may have. See i had heard you caravan was looking to head North sooner rather than later, but don't have a...solid...plan, or that's what the boys who brought us in indicated. When it turns out the old Stag Lord was rather generous, you see...He left us a fortress, and this big old thing, solid walls, guarded pass to approach, resources, but it's so big! We'd love to have some company, if you catch my drift." Kae grins at them. "We've got a keep, and we'd like to invite you and yours to stay."
"I'm jsut asking you to think about it, but if you have any concerns, ask me about them, and I'll ask the group if I can't answer them myself."
"Well, lass, I'd be happy to help you on that matter... I am also right pleased you finished the bandit scum! But reading signs is a ticklish business... there are often many things to sort out when seeking the mysteries."She watches you for a moment.
"If you would have me ply the Fates, I'd be better suited if you told me what you wish to know," she adds the last, lighting a pipe from an errant coal on the tiny metal stove.
Ariarh pauses, considering the questions she could ask of Mistress Patty.
"What imminent obstacles are ahead for us? And how powerful or great are these obstacles?"
Returning his sword to Khrovan, Ka'etil whispering, "Do not give this blade away lightly, or ever. It is dear to me, but you are likely in greater need of it than I, for the time-being." as they leave the tent of the Ustalavians.
Kae exits the tent, and looks around, seeing his companions have dispersed and are taking care of various businesses of their own, he glances around to find David Grear, and Tucker Banks, two fellows he'd met his first day in town. He finds them inside with Khald, the Dwarf. "Evening gentlemen. I'd like to speak with you all about a proposition. Now I don't want to try to convince you of anything right now, but I'd like to broach the subject, take any questions you may have. See i had heard you caravan was looking to head North sooner rather than later, but don't have a...solid...plan, or that's what the boys who brought us in indicated. When it turns out the old Stag Lord was rather generous, you see...He left us a fortress, and this big old thing, solid walls, guarded pass to approach, resources, but it's so big! We'd love to have some company, if you catch my drift." Kae grins at them. "We've got a keep, and we'd like to invite you and yours to stay."
"I'm jsut asking you to think about it, but if you have any concerns, ask me about them, and I'll ask the group if I can't answer them myself."
Everyone looks fairly surprised at your rather bold offer, and generous suggestion.
"Hmm... so you're giving us free rooms and a free place to stay and own, no questions asked? Never mind our business, and we control it for the rest of our lives, and it is a herridatary right to own and pass down unto our generations as long as our line last? And we get to get the whole thing, while you and your folk stay sequestered away in a tiny space while we run the whole thing? And we can take your word as bond because your whole company completely agrees with your proposal and not a word of them stands against you? Or... did you have another proposal?" David asks somewhat sardonically.
Tucker grins.
"Don't mind him, I'm sure he's joking and all. But whereas the plan sounds neat as neat... We need some better particulars before we can make it happen. Tell you what, why don't ye rustle up all the folk, us and yer's and then you lads decide how ye want to make things happen best. When ye got a good proposal - give us all the details and then we know if it be good. There be a lot to consider in something like that, though, but I think that having everyone here and free to listen would be better then not, eh?"
"Well, lass, I'd be happy to help you on that matter... I am also right pleased you finished the bandit scum! But reading signs is a ticklish business... there are often many things to sort out when seeking the mysteries."She watches you for a moment.
"If you would have me ply the Fates, I'd be better suited if you told me what you wish to know," she adds the last, lighting a pipe from an errant coal on the tiny metal stove.
Ariarh pauses, considering the questions she could ask of Mistress Patty.
"What imminent obstacles are ahead for us? And how powerful or great are these obstacles?"
She stares intently at the cards for a moment...
"I see a warning... "Troubled Waters"... I see a shadow... "Dark Fey Beasts"... and I see a threat... "Unfinished Business"... In this order I see the last as the greatest threat; yet, though the greatest threat it is a distant one and far off..."
She looks up at you.
"Does that help you?" she asks hopefully.
Ka'etil's eyes widen more and more as david speaks, What have i gotten myself into here. I'm in trouble. but his worries fade when Tucker speaks. Calmed significantly, Kae laughs, "Well David, these are details that need be discussed, I just wanted a little input from you before we finalized any plans. I just wanted to give you the thought, see if you were interested in talking about the possibility, give you some basics. So We'll speak more on this at length and in detail later. I do hope we can come to an amicable arrangement." Kae stands and heads for the door, "It is good to see you again, and I'm glad to see you safe here." He smiles warmly and waves, glad to escape before having gotten drunk...
Kae goes off in search of Bronwyn, Khrovin and Ariarh to head in to see what Brett, Alaric, and Olag are up to, and hammer out the details of their settlement plan.
She stares intently at the cards for a moment..."I see a warning... "Troubled Waters"... I see a shadow... "Dark Fey Beasts"... and I see a threat... "Unfinished Business"... In this order I see the last as the greatest threat; yet, though the greatest threat it is a distant one and far off..."
She looks up at you.
"Does that help you?" she asks hopefully.
Ariarh ponders what each portent could mean but at least she had something to work with.
"I am not entirely sure, good lady, how helpful it is at this present moment. But certainly, I will remember the three parts and relay them to my companions and perhaps together we will be able to unravel the meaning of each portent in due course. I thank you kindly for your time and for the reading. I would also like to extend an invitation to you and yours to come into the courtyard after sunset as my party would like to speak to all the travellers and discuss our ideas with regard to the Stag Lord's fortress. I hope to see you there." Ry smiles and waves at the Priestess. Perhaps she would come back another day for further readings. There were darker times ahead it seemed. Ry's brow was furrowed with new concern. Instead of seeking Mistress Selendria out at this time, Ry turns on her heels and heads back into the compound to find her companions.
Soon she comes across Ka'etil and stops to ask what he has learned.
"Heavens me, it seems the Ustalavian Knights suspect that there was something particularly awful related to Hermia, but the Baron clearly is after Anuk-su so, I'd way. We must take care. of her with Alaric. We should also discuss how we are going to settle the land."
"I feel like if we offer them space for the winter and a year's time after that, we can get them to help re-build, and improve infrastructure, and we can figure out a more perminant solution later on? They would pay their way by working the land, but as a community, not a separated peoples. That way it makes living in the fortress to hanging out over a wall?"
Upon the disclosure regarding their former cleric, Ry enquires, "Are Brett, Alaric and Anuk-Su still in with Oleg? And where are Khro and Bronwyn?" Ry looks about, hoping to see the other two somewhere in the courtyard. She spots Dior by the tables near the fire pit and decides to leave him be. "Kae, I have passed the message along for the travellers to meet us in the courtyard after sunset. We need to regroup as soon as we can and prepare a solid proposal. They seem eager to hear what we have planned and we cannot go into this haphazardly. Plus, Mistress Patty, the priestess, undertook a reading for me and it didn't seem like good news on the horizon. Let's go." Ariarh takes another look, still scanning the grounds for Khro. She wanted to have a word with him privately at some point tonight. Ry needed to share her concerns with the man she was beginning to love.
"I feel like if we offer them space for the winter and a year's time after that, we can get them to help re-build, and improve infrastructure, and we can figure out a more perminant solution later on? They would pay their way by working the land, but as a community, not a separated peoples. That way it makes living in the fortress to hanging out over a wall?"
As they walked and talked, Ry considers Kae's proposal, "A sound idea and it would give the travellers ample opportunity over the winter to see what life could be like within the walls of the keep. By working for a full year amongst us, they could determine how fair and honest we were in our dealings and perhaps in time we could bequeath them a plot of land or hand over the rights, especially if they have proven their loyalty and willingness. If they reside with us over the winter, we could grant them free lodgings and food in that period. In turn, they could work side by side with us on the fortifications, on draining and clearing the swamp and any manner of projects we deem necessary, and we could reduce any future rent by time allotted at the keep. Let's put this forward to the others. Any more ideas, my friend?" Ariarh was thankful for Lily Banks' earlier hospitality as she wouldn't have to worry about being hungry during their discussions.
"How is it that most kingdoms function? I suspect that Alaric may have a greater understanding of this than I. Property and ownership is not something a Nomad or mercenary worries about..."
Upon locating Alaric, Brett and Khrovin, Ka'etil requests some insight into the strange practices of this culture that he never had to bother with before. "So we need a plan that will convince the families here to join our settlement, but I am unfortunately unsure as to what to offer to them. By my limited understanding it seems that in a kingdom, everything is the king's in a manner of speaking, and there are barons and dukes and such owning land, under the king, but then there are shop-keepers and such that own their shops in cities in the kingdom, and farmers that own land, and there are taxes and tithes and other such means of paying a lord... I really do not understand you human's feudal system at all."
He shrugs his shoulders and asks, "Would it be wise to offer them a place within the fortress and supplies until we are able to begin farming and such, then we give them a plot of land to farm? The land is theirs as long as they give the settlement a percentage of what they grow, and we'll offer them protection and a place to store their foodstuffs?" We open the offer to anyone, Giving them a place to live as long as they pay some sort of tax or rent? OR is there a more proper way to organize a kinddom?"
As the afternoon has worn on, Alaric and Brett exit Oleg’s cabin. Brett wears a pleased look on his face, and Alaric and Oleg are shaking hands. Moving to the overhang by the fire, Alaric takes the liberty to draw three glasses and pours within them contents from a bottle that he had taken from the bandits.
Brett, Alaric, and Oleg raise their glasses for what seems like a brief toast, and as they drink you can see that they each enjoy the vintage. Oleg moves quickly to talk to Svetlana, while Brett continues to sip the drink, lighting a pipe and thinking deeply on some private matter.
Alaric moves toward you all with the pleased look gracing his features and raises the cup to you with a genteel salute.
”Well; that business is now concluded, and soundly, I might add,” he says with a happy gleam in his eye.
”Master Oleg has come to a decision about what he wishes to do with his land and property, and I am happy say that he is excited to join with our recently forming government.”
Gathering you all around he gives a quick outline of what Oleg will do, and what Oleg is doing.
Firstly, he indicates that – in all probability, Oleg’s residence is a place that will no doubt draw attention and support of the local population. Once it become evident that the bandits have been cleaned out of this place, he believes that goodly people shall be seen traveling down the road more frequently. Therefore, a better set of living conditions will be made here, and Oleg can start to enjoy more business.
Of course, this will be difficult for good Oleg; for though he is a shrewd bargainer and businessman in his own light; setting up a town is not easy work. Alaric believes, though, that with the abolishment of the bandits it is likely that you will see some form of “reward” from the northmen who are eager to curry favor with anyone in these lands who are anxious to build trade commodities for business, and infrastructure to facilitate the trade.
In other words – coin and supplies will likely flow to you so you can get your “nation” started, with the understanding that in the long term you will be a happy “ally” to your benefactor.
As you have all done your part in eliminating the threat of bandits – it is likely that your talents will be recognized and rewarded with the “reward” being given directly to you. Alaric feels this is hasty business and has deemed it better to “share the wealth”, as it were.
The fortress you have discovered is nearly (though not truly) an almost empty town ready to be moved in. The lands around it have plenty of lumber, water, lakes for fishing, space for farming, and fields for tilling – further, the fortress itself has enough rooms to comfortably house about 2,000 citizens (roughly 160 people per floor - or roughly 40 families of 4 per floor - with a total of 12 floors of living space), as well as what seems be a rather large area for granaries when the structure was attacked; a stable for the guardsmen; a forge to assist the folk inside for keeping it armed and defended; a huge kitchen with massive dining area near the forge (not unlike a tavern) and a fairly defensible position to boot.
Therefore, suggest Alaric, why invest all the “reward” in this town? Why not divide it with Oleg? Let him use some it for his own, to grow the population around his sturdy trading post. If Brett and Alaric are correct, Oleg will have more and more business their in the coming months. A proper forge, a formal courier service, a possible shrine to Erastil or any of the gods – not to mention the houses for the folk that will work there – this will cost coin and “supplies”. But quickly you’ll begin to draw in the support of two separate villages. And between them, in a year or two, perhaps, decent roads which will help you move scouts and patrols across the wide expanse of the plains, which should provide more safety for all.
Oleg was hard put not to agree to this generosity, but he was shrewd enough to realize that he wouldn’t get this for “free”. Indeed; this is the case.
Stability needs infrastructure, and revenue to maintain the order between towns. Oleg can independently provide you all with revenue, which you can use to make roads between his village and yours. Soon you’ll have traders coming as far south as your fledgling village, and you’ll begin to see a true population springing up.
Oleg will therefore retain the lowest form of nobility that can be afforded on a person; “squire”. Not the knightly ranking, but an extremely minor noble, nearly superfluous, except it will offer a position of title with your growing kingdom.
He will be free to use the supplies you send him to build and construct what he wishes. As it grows in power, he will be free to govern it – provided he does so justly and under the overarching policies that you eventually will provide.
For his agreement to secede land to your government, he gains the right to one forth (that is, 25%) of the incoming reward you are being sent; which will be used to help him set up a small village near his lands.
Squire Oleg also knows he will be responsible to what government you provide, but – in addition to this – he expects your assistance and protection if troubles arise in the future. After all – even though it is his land it is now part of your kingdom.
Letter to Anor and therefore the temple.
My dearest friend Anor,
It has been many weeks since I last left the beautiful green grounds of the temple. You and I both know the reason for why I have left, and unfortunately I have yet to find Akiros. I continue the search, looking to hopefully bring him back into the fold, although there will be an element of reconciliation as we discussed. Akiros' trail has gone cold in an area just south of Restov, and I have joined a small group of adventurers who have been given a charter to explore, map and I believe eventually govern the lands.
You and I both know of the problems that I continually brought up whilst at the temple, and how I was often seen as ungrateful and worse for the number of arguments and discussions that I caused, many of which went on till the early hours of the morning, and often only stopped when the candles spluttered when coming to the end of their wicks.
I have been out of contact for the simple reason that there has been little time to write. The last two weeks have been an almost headlong rush to defeat a man who had set himself up as a bandit king in this area, and in many ways was destroying the land. The lack of infrastructure outside of his own fortress, his pillaging other areas of the lands in a bid to get the resources that he refused to make himself, it all combined to give us a holy purpose. The bandit king has been struck down finally, although there are matters that still lie heavy on my heart. News has come to us of a band of people who call themselves The Scarlet Brotherhood, and it would appear they mean these lands ill. If you were to know anything about this group then your council would be much appreciated.
There is however an ulterior motive of mine to writing this letter. Or rather two. One of them is that I would like you to join me in this place. I have been given the duty of leading the religious direction of these lands, and it is a duty that I would feel uncomfortable doing without your wise council.
The second is a matter of funding for the religious direction. I am looking at helping the creation of this settlement, but these things are not cheap. Also, I want to create a brand new temple for Erastil on a place that in the far distant past once held one. The site is fairly well kept, but would need significant work, both in terms of materials, but also in the terms of skilled craftsmen. I would ask if you could do me a great favour in petitioning on my behalf for these materials.
There are other matters that are close to my heart, although currently I do not feel right putting these thoughts to paper. Perhaps when we meet each other once more.
Your servant always,
Khrovin
Diplomacy
Letter to Anor and therefore the temple.
My dearest friend Anor,
It has been many weeks since I last left the beautiful green grounds of the temple. You and I both know the reason for why I have left, and unfortunately I have yet to find Akiros. I continue the search, looking to hopefully bring him back into the fold, although there will be an element of reconciliation as we discussed. Akiros' trail has gone cold in an area just south of Restov, and I have joined a small group of adventurers who have been given a charter to explore, map and I believe eventually govern the lands.
You and I both know of the problems that I continually brought up whilst at the temple, and how I was often seen as ungrateful and worse for the number of arguments and discussions that I caused, many of which went on till the early hours of the morning, and often only stopped when the candles spluttered when coming to the end of their wicks.
I have been out of contact for the simple reason that there has been little time to write. The last two weeks have been an almost headlong rush to defeat a man who had set himself up as a bandit king in this area, and in many ways was destroying the land. The lack of infrastructure outside of his own fortress, his pillaging other areas of the lands in a bid to get the resources that he refused to make himself, it all combined to give us a holy purpose. The bandit king has been struck down finally, although there are matters that still lie heavy on my heart. News has come to us of a band of people who call themselves The Scarlet Brotherhood, and it would appear they mean these lands ill. If you were to know anything about this group then your council would be much appreciated.
There is however an ulterior motive of mine to writing this letter. Or rather two. One of them is that I would like you to join me in this place. I have been given the duty of leading the religious direction of these lands, and it is a duty that I would feel uncomfortable doing without your wise council.
The...
Excellent first start - questions for you (and to any other players that attempt this)
1. How much money are you willing to spend to get the delivery delivered? That is; you could have the courier be paid "direct" - as in, when your friend receives the letter, he will pay the man who arrives. Or, you could offer the coin yourself up front... In either case, how much are you willing to offer?
The more you offer, the better chances of success and speed -
2. How far away is your friend in miles - and how hard to get to the location? In other words, is your friend at an established temple in a known town with open roads? Or is he in a monastary on the top of a mountain that is hundreds of miles away.
Okay, those questions apply to all who seek help from allies - when you get me that information I can get you a return on the answer.
...Letter to Anor and therefore the temple.
My dearest friend Anor,
It has been many weeks since I last left the beautiful green grounds of the temple. You and I both know the reason for why I have left, and unfortunately I have yet to find Akiros. I continue the search, looking to hopefully bring him back into the fold, although there will be an element of reconciliation as we discussed. Akiros' trail has gone cold in an area just south of Restov, and I have joined a small group of adventurers who have been given a charter to explore, map and I believe eventually govern the lands.
You and I both know of the problems that I continually brought up whilst at the temple, and how I was often seen as ungrateful and worse for the number of arguments and discussions that I caused, many of which went on till the early hours of the morning, and often only stopped when the candles spluttered when coming to the end of their wicks.
I have been out of contact for the simple reason that there has been little time to write. The last two weeks have been an almost headlong rush to defeat a man who had set himself up as a bandit king in this area, and in many ways was destroying the land. The lack of infrastructure outside of his own fortress, his pillaging other areas of the lands in a bid to get the resources that he refused to make himself, it all combined to give us a holy purpose. The bandit king has been struck down finally, although there are matters that still lie heavy on my heart. News has come to us of a band of people who call themselves The Scarlet Brotherhood, and it would appear they mean these lands ill. If you were to know anything about this group then your council would be much appreciated.
There is however an ulterior motive of mine to writing this letter. Or rather two. One of them is that I would like you to join me in this place. I have been given the duty of leading the religious direction of these lands, and it is a duty that I would feel uncomfortable doing without your
I will pay the man upfront to the tune of 10gp. I am sure that the party can help me stump up the cash from the party funds. Its an established temple in Restov itself, so it would take a couple of weeks at most to get there I would imagine.
I hope everyone finds the terms that were given to Oleg satisfactory. Alaric says when the group is together again.
Alaric steps up onto a bench or table so that he can be seen by the assembled people. Taking a moment to let chatter die down, he begins speaking, projecting his voice to be heard throughout. My friends, both new and old, we have come a long way this year. We came here like so many of you, seeking a better life for ourselves and our children. We came seeking to right an evil that was being perpetrated upon the good men and women who were just trying to make there way in the world. Well my friends, I can tell you with certainty that the Stag Lord, whom through his bandits, terrorized the region, is dead. His bandits have been destroyed and we now have a chance at peace for the time being. Do not misunderstand me, there will be challenges to come, but know that a blow has been struck against evil and oppression. A new day is dawning in the Greenbelt, one where community and fellowship are encouraged to thrive. We are standing at the precipice of a new nation, founded upon the principles of family and friendship, justice and compassion, tolerance and imagination. I hope you will join me in celebrating the birth of this new society. For now, I raise my glass to all of you and know that for this evening all food and drink flows freely from my companions and I to you in thanks. May Erastil bless this community as he has blessed me in the friendship of all of you.
...Letter to Anor and therefore the temple.
My dearest friend Anor,
It has been many weeks since I last left the beautiful green grounds of the temple. You and I both know the reason for why I have left, and unfortunately I have yet to find Akiros. I continue the search, looking to hopefully bring him back into the fold, although there will be an element of reconciliation as we discussed. Akiros' trail has gone cold in an area just south of Restov, and I have joined a small group of adventurers who have been given a charter to explore, map and I believe eventually govern the lands.
You and I both know of the problems that I continually brought up whilst at the temple, and how I was often seen as ungrateful and worse for the number of arguments and discussions that I caused, many of which went on till the early hours of the morning, and often only stopped when the candles spluttered when coming to the end of their wicks.
I have been out of contact for the simple reason that there has been little time to write. The last two weeks have been an almost headlong rush to defeat a man who had set himself up as a bandit king in this area, and in many ways was destroying the land. The lack of infrastructure outside of his own fortress, his pillaging other areas of the lands in a bid to get the resources that he refused to make himself, it all combined to give us a holy purpose. The bandit king has been struck down finally, although there are matters that still lie heavy on my heart. News has come to us of a band of people who call themselves The Scarlet Brotherhood, and it would appear they mean these lands ill. If you were to know anything about this group then your council would be much appreciated.
There is however an ulterior motive of mine to writing this letter. Or rather two. One of them is that I would like you to join me in this place. I have been given the duty of leading the religious direction of these lands, and it is a duty that I would feel uncomfortable
The journey to Restov (from here, as I see it on the maps) looks to be about 120 miles. There is a good road, which should mean you could get a rider there in about six days. But the weather is not good, and there are no current riders.
As soon as one is available heading in that direction, however, the letter will be sent.
Brett leans back in his chair and gives you all a grin.
”Well, it be a fine thing about ol’ Oleg joining with us formal-like. That be a good decision, no mistake. Now, I be talking with Alaric, and got’s some ideas on how we may be handing out land to folk, as it were,” he adds, stretching a bit, then his face going “all business”.
”Firstly, we be making a town and maybe one day a kingdom by right o’ conquest. This sort o’ rules out the right o’ “Divine Right”, as it were, as we ain’t gifted this land by fiat o’ the gods. Now, I know what some o’ ye may be thinking; ”Brett, lad – we done beat the bandits and their scum by aid o’ the gods – so don’t that mean we act under their mandate - that means the gods, eh?” Well, I be saying that sound good and all – but it don’t stand well on me line o’ thinking, nor Alaric’s. As it were, one could argue, we be like a group of lords and ladies who done rode in and decided to make this place our kingdom, as were. So far, we’re a bunch of lords and ladies who done beat some bandits and be like setting ourselves up as a new warlord. Now, don’t mistake me,” he says throwing up his hands ”I don’t be saying that be what I want, rather, that be the facts o’ the case, as it were. But any how ye slice it, we be the lords o’ the land – just not appointed by right o’ gods, rather, through the law.”
Alaric sips his drink and waits for Brett to pause a moment before interrupting smoothly.
”In my studies of royalty and culture, I discovered a legal term that suggests something known roughly as “eminent domain”. Basically, as I have read it; a person may “own” land, and even pass it on to his successors in a kingdom or empire. But ultimately, the land itself is formally “owned” by the Crown, or whatever legal government is in charge. The Crown has the legal right to remove a man from his land – to force the man out and take his property – though typically some form of financial compensation is expected. Like, for example, ordering a group of gnomes from their land so that a road could be built – the gnomes would be forced to move somewhere else so the Crown could build the road – but the gnomes would be compensated by the treasury and so forth.”
Brett sighs and mutters something under his breath that sounds like ”bloody legal mumbo-jumbo” and breaks in as soon as Alaric wets his mouth with another sip of the heated brandy.
”Anyhow… point be is that we can formal give them folk land o’ their own to do with what they want. But they don’t be owning it formal – rather, the Crown – or whatever we call ourselves be; we be the ones that own it. So, say – if we give a lad like Oleg all this land and then be coming up here a year or two later and find he be holding slave pens and so forth – why… he be most likely tried and such, and his land may be even going back to the Crown. So there be no fretting on a lad owning land forever, and then smuggling in dark magic folk or spy types – because if he does it the Crown – that be us – can just take the land if he tries something dodgy.”
”Personally it would take a great offense before any government I would lead, or be part of, allowed such an action to happen,” Alaric interrupts.
”Yes, but it could happen, and if it done did happen, then there be a chance to redress it, so there be nothing to fear of on that account,” Brett breaks back in somewhat hotly.
”Perhaps… “ Alaric retorts before Brett can speak again ”but though it may be good to be prepared for eventualities, I say it is not worth worrying on such a thing. For now, we have other things to concern ourselves with then losing sleep at what may happen, and hasn’t happen, and may not even ever happen,” Alaric finishes.
”Well, that be mighty White of ye to say so, then,” Brett throws back.
”The point be,” he goes on, before Alaric can offer another comment ”is that we need to figure out to do with the folk. Now, I be done seeing this strategy be working in many ways, as it were. The first strategy is to divide land into plots – then once they be divvied up, ye let the folk bid on the plots they want to build on. Then, ye get cash back right into the coffers of the treasury, so we can build things right fast.”
”True, but in this case is we don’t really have lots to divide; yet. Rather, we have rooms to rent. Specifically, we have whole rows of rooms. We could rent those rooms to people; either a year lease or not, or sell them land,” Alaric breaks in again.
”Yes, we can be renting them, but where do that be leaving folk like farmers and such? We need crops and food and industry as it were. It be a three to four mile down the road until folk get out into the open, then were they be going? They can make farmland along the road between the entrance to the trail o’ the canyon and up to the fortress, or they can make a new village for farming folk to stay handy in. I be thinking that we divvy up plots o’ land fer farming and sell the folk the land there to do with what they want. They can stay in the fortress if they want, until their farms be made, but I even be going farther – let them stay in fortress fer free fer a year. Any and all, until they have time to set up a farm, farm house and whatever business they want to do. They got a fresh bed and room inside fer free until they get the land they set up built and comfy. Then, next year, they ride out o’ the fortress and trek down to their land and house, and start the thing of making a farm. By then, new crop o’ village folk come riding in; them folk we take in; give room fer free in fortress, and do the same thing fer next year.”
”I also believe this would be a shrewd move,” Alaric says.
”If we take the caravan here for a test run, for example, and tell them we shall provide them with free room and board for the winter; the next step will be portion out a parcel of land with equal plots - close together so we can guard it safely – then they can bid on what plots they want. In Spring, when the snows melt, they start making farms as soon as can be. They spend most of their time on the farm, and make their homes in the fortress. By the time the next year comes, they will be able to move out of the fortress and move onto the land, for by then their cottages will be built. And, of course, another similar group will most likely have arrived to fill their places.”
Alaric smile broadly at that suggestion.
”We will therefore encourage more people to settle here, as we provide them with a free room for a year for them while they get their own farms built and set up properly. Further, as long as our new guests are in the fortress we are better able to observe and witness them – ferreting out any spies or threats that our friends from Ustalav may try to send against us. And if they prove treacherous? So much the better, for they will be sequestered in a place that is well staffed with our security. In time, I foresee this to be a grand plan.”
Brett rolls his eyes somewhat at this, and Alaric pretends not to notice.
”Aye, well; the only thing now is how we want to parcel out the land. I be reckoning on each “plot” be about one tenth o' a mile... If that ain’t enough fer a lad or lass to make a farm, then they can buy two plots.”
”I am not entirely pleased on selling the land… I think that free land will encourage more folk… “ Alaric muses over Brett’s words.
”Yes, well, that be a fine notion,” Brett breaks in ”but that be why ye let ‘em bid fer the land. If they bid then ye open bidding on something low. Any can get it, and the better land be bought by rich, and poorer folk get their share, too. Just not the choice spots.”
”Yes, but that formulates some sort of class system based on an elitism of money and wealth,” Alaric responds, his face troubled.
”Look, a flat plain o’ grass where a lad can grow crops be better then many folk be getting. If a rich lad try to take too much land, then don’t let him bid on more then two lots, or something like that. But ye’ll need cash sometime, and tax and such be a way to be making it,” Brett adds, a frustrated look on his face.
”Yes… well, I’m certain that’s something we can worry about in time. For now, the best solution – as I see it – is to give any folk that wish it free room and board in the caves for the winter time, Then, in the Spring, let them bid on lots of land to start setting up their own cottages and so forth,” he adds.
”And I still say that last part be too friendly like. Ye give out free room and board ye’ll have every lazy sod in the far nations be running up here in winter fer free spuds and beer. Nought but lazy bones and hum-bums taking free food and not even lending a hand. Ye don’t give ‘em some sort of charge or make ‘em pay something fer the winter then ye open the doors to the worst sorts. We want good, hard-working, industrial folk here, not a bunch of slackers! We need to make sure the folk that come here got some understanding; we ain’t running a bleeding charity house, eh? They be paying something, or at least they got’s to be doing something, eh?”
”Well, maybe we will give the rooms be free – and yes, I suppose that perhaps they can pay something for the food, then. I suppose that is not, too unreasonable,” Alaric says a sigh that seems to indicate that he is getting tired of discussing this sort of minutia.
”Oh hell, ye don’t know what ye want,” Brett retorts sourly.
”Alright then, ye all heard me and Al’s suggestion. What be yer thought on it? How do ye plan on doing things? And if ye don’t like what we said, what do ye got to be saying then?” Brett says, turning back to the group, hoping to conclude this piece of business soon.
Ariarh has listened intently to Brett and Alaric discussing their ideas back and forth.
"One tenth of a mile for each plot sounds reasonable. I would agree that we should limit the number of lots a wealthy person is able to purchase for if given free rein the poorer settlers would be run out or have no land to purchase as the rich would have bought up all the parcels of land. Two plots is sufficient, as Brett's mentioned. The point of striving to start a new kingdom is to give all folk a real chance at a life away from fear, corruption and chaos. If the lots are all the same size, or relatively so, then I do not believe that the wealthier folk should necessarily have the best plots of land. Maybe we can hold a lottery to decide which lots people can bid for. Besides, those first settlers will have first pick if we allow them to choose their area of land, will they not?"
"Free rooms in the fortress over winter is a good inducement. I feel people will be satisfied with that and will not begrudge paying for food or supplies they need. Perhaps, we could all work together to hunt and so forth and thus free food could also be provided. Even a bartering system could be put in place for those folk with little to no coin. In spring, the first ream of settlers bid on land and move onto their purchased land and we fill the rooms with new settlers and start the process again, building our community and future kingdom with loyal and trustworthy people. This is a clever idea Brett has come up with." Ariarh acknowledges Brett with a nod.
Ariarh is thoughtful before continuing. "When it comes to marking up the plots, I would like to survey the land first, if you are all amenable, so I may determine the local flora and fauna and to ensure we are not heedlessly destroying natural habitats. Development is all well and good yet not at the cost of the natural environment. I would see the two things in harmony." She smiles at the company, determination shining in her eyes, and does not say anymore at this time. Dior rests on his mistress' shoulder and chirps in agreement.
"We will likely have work to be done in the fortress over the winter, so there will be plenty to be done by those who stay to earn their keep," Kae notes. That should satisfy both Alaric's issue charging people, and Brett's about gathering slackers.
Kae's vote is for the plan. Sounds good.
"I'll assist in examining the local wildlife as well, lend you another pair of eyes, and some protection," Kae offers to Ariarh.
"I'll assist in examining the local wildlife as well, lend you another pair of eyes, and some protection," Kae offers to Ariarh.
"Kae, I readily accept your offer. We will have a bit of territory to cover and it makes sense to have more than one person examining the area and looking for any signs of danger. I'll have Dior take to the skies and he can keep an eye out from above."
"Kae, I readily accept your offer. We will have a bit of territory to cover and it makes sense to have more than one person examining the area and looking for any signs of danger. I'll have Dior take to the skies and he can keep an eye out from above."
"I'll assist in examining the local wildlife as well, lend you another pair of eyes, and some protection," Kae offers to Ariarh.
Khrovin once more listens to the points that Brett and Alaric were bandying between one another. That Alaric had so much patience for Brett was remarkable, and that they both had such a grasp on the minutia that he had personally not even thought of was also slightly intimidating. Still, there were other matters to discuss with this new kingdom they were trying to make, and there seemed to be so little time left really. With the Stag Lord dead, there was a power vacuum within the lands, and it needed filling quickly before someone stole the initiative and set themselves up in the man's image.
I would join you in the surveying of these lands Ariarh and Kae, if it were not for the fact that I have so little comprehension as to how to formally survey anything. Still, the ride might do me some good. If you will have me, I will come with you. Perhaps you can teach me a little
I would join you in the surveying of these lands Ariarh and Kae, if it were not for the fact that I have so little comprehension as to how to formally survey anything. Still, the ride might do me some good. If you will have me, I will come with you. Perhaps you can teach me a little
"Khro, you have a knowledge of nature, and I believe your input would be most helpful. Between the three of us, I trust we can figure out how to survey the land with some reasonable competence. Aye, I would have you join us."
Ariarh quickly pens a letter to her parents: Letter
to be delivered to Riordan and Sadira Kane of the Kane Horse Ranch, Artume on the western branch of the Sellan River, The River Kingdoms.
The distance on horseback is approximately 330 miles and is over several rivers. The letter would take roughly 20 days to get to its destination. However, the roads are not always the best, especially in bad weather, and there are rivers to cross also. The ranch itself is well known in the region and would not be too hard to find.
Ariarh could pay the courier upfront (15gp) from her own money or her parents have the coin to pay him when he arrives on the other side (if he requires more money for the delivery).
Conclusions…
Okay, I am now going to be moving things forward rather quickly. To do so I need some basic information from all;
Number 1
1. What EXACTLY do you do over the winter. For example, I know that Kae is reading the war manual, and I know that Khrovin is carving a bow, and that both Khrovin and Ariarh have dispatched letters to home.
I therefore need to know what you are doing this winter; any gear you are making (and cost), any letters you dispatch, and to whom (including money you will spend and distance/difficulty to person/destination), and any general plans.
Anyone sending letters home will need to roll a Diplomacy Roll for each, to determine the success of any requests you make.
You have six months to do this stuff IN game, but I want to pick up book 2 formally this Monday, and preferably Sunday. So think it over, and send me your information. If I don’t get it by Monday at the latest, you will have to figure out a way to do it in game.
Number 2
2. Currently you have a total of roughly 48.000 GP in your treasury. This this number is "formally" the group funds, each of you can take from that ammount, but no more then 8,000 GP a peice of that to spend. Some of you have already made “purchases” from the treasury; such as Ariarh claiming the Aumulet, which is currently 2,500 GP, or the 300 GP for the supplies needed to make the Masterwork bow. Yes it is still yoru goods and gear, but while it is on you for you to use, it is no longer in the treasury for the "population" to use, so your total finances are smaller, and you have less ready coin to spend on houses in the spring (not counting "rewards and build points" which will come in bulk this Monday).
I ask this because you all want personal gear, but the gear you take will eventually come out of what you have in the treasury, and will eventually make things like building in the spring costly, if you all decide to suddenly craft, say, 10,000 Masterwork daggers. (masterwork composite bow will cost you... make sure you deduct total from GP)
Let me therefore know what you would spend on yourself specifically, with the understanding that it can’t go above 8,000 GP a person (without group’s consent), and everything you take for yourself will come out of the treasury as a whole.
In other words; show me all the goods/gear (magical or otherwise) you have claimed for your own and the cost for each on a new “equipment” sheet. If you haven’t claimed it, it isn’t yours; and you maintain your current gear.
Remember, personal goods and gear that is petty don't really bother me at this point (i.e. some tobaccco, tea, some bear skins). Unless they have stat effects in the game, it won't really matter (like, unless the Tea gives you bonus's to attack, for example) or unless you have so much of it that it is like a trade good (i.e. 200 pounds of tea). For now, just assume that food and yoru basic horses and equipment cost nothing from the treasurey. Magical or Masterwork weapons will cost you, though, and horses, too, if you have more then two of them (not counting what you started with).
Number 3
3. Finally, I need to know the following “vote” from each of you.
a. What kind of government will you be (democratic, autocratic, theocratic) etcetera. It doesn’t have to be from the discussion. You simply put up what you want. If you can’t tailor it to one word (monarchy, for example) give me a rough definition (limited monarchy with Parliament; or The Republic – conjoined with SPQR – The Senate and Peoples Republic of the River kingdom)
b. What “alignment” is your government?
c. Will your government have a patron deity, open to any religions, or be exclusive of any religion (I.E. we only worship GOOD deities, or we allow any deities if their subjects don’t break the law, or we don’t allow EVIL deities, etcetera).
To give you a rough idea of what I am looking for, I shall offer you now Brett’s reply;
1. Brett: Reading Draconic War Manual – gaining Improved Unarmed Strike; reading Lencher’s Journal – gaining +1 Misc. Bonus to Craft; Alchemy, Heal, Knowledge; Nature, and Brew Potion; and reading Tome of Potions and Elixers; gaining a +2 Misc. Modifier to Craft; Alchemy. Brett also will dispatch letters to “Old Shelby” (far south in Cheliax – Brett will offer the sum of 100 GP, plus an additional 100 GP paid for by Shelby on delivery) and the “Duke Esserian” (about two months north of him in Brevoy). He will offer 50 GP for this service. Brett will be looking for a piece of land for what will one day be his estates. Brett also plans on contracting work for Ivy and Billy Banks, and Chris Ironhorse as aids to his work. He will do this for four solid weeks. With modifiers and cumulative success rates, this will cost him a total of 1,540 Gold Pieces and the three youngsters for the total of four weeks, and they will now charge Brett only 20% of their relative costs for all future quests.
Brett has therefore spent a total from “his share” equal to 1,690 GP pieces and is using his Survival skills to find a suitable plot of land to set up his estates later in the game. By spending a month and taking 20’s on this Skill, he has found such a place and will petition the gang for “ownership” of it later.
Brett is skilled in mapmaking and will gladly assist in anyone’s who needs to make formal maps.
Relative decrease in total Treasury: 1,690 GP.
Brett’s Vote for the Nation
A Brett votes that the nation is SPQR – that is, like the ancient Republic of Rome, with the land broken into Provinces with Senators representing each province, and the “King” equal to the Consul of the Senate.
B Brett prefers a Lawful Neutral Alignment for the kingdom. He is Chaotic Good, but thinks a nation governed by Law is fair, provided it isn’t too heavy handed in either direction.
C Brett has no preference for a national “Patron Deity”. He prefers the abolition of any Deity who has “evil” in their “heading”; though will tolerate Ambassadors who follow either Chaotic or Evil gods, provided they are here legally and don’t break the law.
Question 1
a. Ka'etil is going to read the Draconic War-Manual for: Free Improved Unarmed Strike
b. Partially out of boredom and seeing Khro and Ry taking such an interest, he'll also read Lechner's Journal, and the Tome of Potions and Elixers, asking either of them at a time if they mind giving him a hand understanding it all... darn books: +3 Craft(alchemy), +1 to Heal and K(nature), and Brew Potions
Question 2
a. Asks Alaric to craft him a Amulet of Mighty Fists (Furious, if he can, otherwise +1) for 2500gp
........and if there's time and he is able, Kae'd like a pair of Boots of Striding and Springing for 2750gp
b. Would it be feasible to go hunting (would there be any game to speak of) over the winter, and if so how much would it cost to Hire Ryul and Henry Ironhorse to join him on 4 hunting trips lasting 3 days a piece? It looks like he's hiring Henry with a +5 bonus so it's half-price so that's 200gp, and Ryul with a +6 bonus for 160gp for 2 weeks worth of work... Is 360 gp correct for this venture? Just want to confirm
Others are welcome to join him, and see if the gun-slingers can be hired to come as well, if he goes...
Question 3
a. Monarchy, with a council of equal power to the monarch comprised of the other High Officers, and a Parliament
Three Branches:
- Monarch: self-explanitary
- High Council: appointed by the King and ratified by the Parliament (Commons not Lords), have equal status as the King. They are the major offices within the Kingdom
- Parliament: House of Commons: Voted in by the people, 3 individuals from each district that are elected by the people.
- - House of Lords: If there is an aristocracy, the Lords have a council that ratifies the initatives of the Commons, or Vetoes them, which can then be overturned by the commons with a strong enough vote.
b. NG kingdom. The interests of the people being the primary interest, leaving adequate room for personal freedoms of the people, but still having a order and structure. Just not a super ridged one.
c. CE is forbidden outright (Probably Neutral Evil as well). All other religions are subject to the Law of the land, and any crime committed in the name of Religion are sill crimes, and religions, are subject to monitoring and Regulation by the State. All religious sited are considered Public therefor emissaries of the state are allowed through the entirety of the site.
- "Evil" actions and magic are prohibited, and there is not right to privacy if "Evil" is suspected.
Think that's about it...
1. Ariarh: Writing a letter to home. Reading Lencher’s Journal – gaining +1 Misc. Bonus to Craft; Alchemy, Heal, Knowledge; Nature, and Brew Potion; and reading Tome of Potions and Elixirs; gaining a +2 Misc. Modifier to Craft; Alchemy. Ry will set aside some time to sit with Selendria Grear, the alchemist, and (further) learn about potion making. She will also undertake learning of a new language -- Halfling -- from Lily Banks and/or Brett. Ry will spend three weeks training her riding horse for combat. Training animal for combat using handle animal check (DC20): . (Combat Training (DC 20): An animal trained to bear a rider into combat knows the tricks attack, come, defend, down, guard, and heel. Training an animal for combat riding takes 6 weeks. You may also “upgrade” an animal trained for riding to one trained for combat by spending 3 weeks and making a successful DC 20 Handle Animal check. The new general purpose and tricks completely replace the animal's previous purpose and any tricks it once knew.)
2. Dragon Amulet: 2500gp, 1 set of Healing Herbs. Courier cost for letter delivery: 25gp. So cost=8000gp less 2500gp less 25gp less set of healing herbs.
3. a) A limited monarchy with an elected parliament. Ry would not see the sole political power reside in the hands of the monarch. A monarch's powers and influence can be determined/defined by factors such tradition, precedent, popular opinion, and law. In addition, the heir to the throne can be male or female (Ariarh believes in the equality of the sexes). Likes the idea of tiered system as proposed by Kae: Monarch (and their dynasty), High Council, House of Commons and House of Lords (if we want a distinction between classes). The monarch will have the right to veto or sanction legislation if the various Houses are deadlocked and cannot reach agreement. (I know I'm playing around with this concept but one strict form of government doesn't capture the essence of what it is Ariarh is seeking, and her player's brain is hurting as she/the player is quite non-political in nature.)
b) Lawful Neutral is okay, providing strict laws are also fair in order to maintain social order.
c) No preference for a patron deity. It would be good to say the government is open to all/any religions if their patrons do not break the law (and harm others), but Ariarh would rather exclude "evil" from the kingdom entirely.
Question 1
a. Ka'etil is going to read the Draconic War-Manual for: Free Improved Unarmed Strikeb. Partially out of boredom and seeing Khro and Ry taking such an interest, he'll also read Lechner's Journal, and the Tome of Potions and Elixers, asking either of them at a time if they mind giving him a hand understanding it all... darn books: +3 Craft(alchemy), +1 to Heal and K(nature), and Brew Potions
Question 2
a. Asks Alaric to craft him a Amulet of Mighty Fists (Furious, if he can, otherwise +1) for 2500gp
........and if there's time and he is able, Kae'd like a pair of Boots of Striding and Springing for 2750gp
b. Would it be feasible to go hunting (would there be any game to speak of) over the winter, and if so how much would it cost to Hire Ryul and Henry Ironhorse to join him on 4 hunting trips lasting 3 days a piece? It looks like he's hiring Henry with a +5 bonus so it's half-price so that's 200gp, and Ryul with a +6 bonus for 160gp for 2 weeks worth of work... Is 360 gp correct for this venture? Just want to confirm
Others are welcome to join him, and see if the gun-slingers can be hired to come as well, if he goes...
Question 3
a. Monarchy, with a council of equal power to the monarch comprised of the other High Officers, and a Parliament
Three Branches:
- Monarch: self-explanitary
- High Council: appointed by the King and ratified by the Parliament (Commons not Lords), have equal status as the King. They are the major offices within the Kingdom
- Parliament: House of Commons: Voted in by the people, 3 individuals from each district that are elected by the people.
- - House of Lords: If there is an...
Regarding Question 1
Neither magical items can be crafted at this time between books. However, they can be crafted at a later time after book 2 has formally started. Did you have any specific instructions for any mundane gear such as masterwork amror and so forth?
Regarding any choice by Alaric, I will need to hear back specifically from him.
Regarding Question 2
Your information is slightly off...
1. Ryul will work for free on this matter; as he has sworn to do so through oath. So there is no worry there.
2. Henry Ironhorse will work, but each "task" is broken up into a minimum of 1 week increments. Thus, "three days" is still equal to a week. You currently have a +6 modifier with him (because of bonuses like a fortress and paying in advance), but it will cost you 300 GP to hire him for one week's worth of work. As your good graces continue to go up, his cost will come down.
week 1 = 300 +6
week 2 = 300 +7
week 3 = 225 +8
week 4 = 225 +9
week 5 = 150 +10
This is a net total (to max his bonus to a +10) of 1,200 GP of out of pocket expenses from you; for Hank Ironhorse. Let me know how much of this you want to spend.
I should, add, however, that if you were able to do this, and (in addtion to that) provide the raw materials/gold for Alaric to craft those items (assuming he agreed and was able to) that would mean that while Alaric was crafting your gear he could do nothing else until the checks were done, and he would need to roll the checks.
Also, your portion of the money is a Maximum of 8,000 GP. The items you requested, as well as the training you needed, would end up costing you roughly 6,000+ GP. Your total national treasury (which is split between two towns) would then drop down to roughly 39,000 GP (as Brett has already made some requests).
Remember, at this time, you have not received any formal reward yet, and do not know how much you will get. Between your spending and Brett's your treasury is less then it started by a few thousand.
1. Ariarh: Writing a letter to home. Reading Lencher’s Journal – gaining +1 Misc. Bonus to Craft; Alchemy, Heal, Knowledge; Nature, and Brew Potion; and reading Tome of Potions and Elixirs; gaining a +2 Misc. Modifier to Craft; Alchemy. Ry will set aside some time to sit with Selendria Grear, the alchemist, and (further) learn about potion making. She will also undertake learning of a new language -- Halfling -- from Lily Banks and/or Brett. Ry will spend three weeks training her riding horse for combat. Training animal for combat using handle animal check (DC20): 1d20+7. (Combat Training (DC 20): An animal trained to bear a rider into combat knows the tricks attack, come, defend, down, guard, and heel. Training an animal for combat riding takes 6 weeks. You may also “upgrade” an animal trained for riding to one trained for combat by spending 3 weeks and making a successful DC 20 Handle Animal check. The new general purpose and tricks completely replace the animal's previous purpose and any tricks it once knew.)
2. Dragon Amulet: 2500gp, 1 set of Healing Herbs. Courier cost for letter delivery: 25gp. So cost=8000gp less 2500gp less 25gp less set of healing herbs.
3. a) A limited monarchy with an elected parliament. Ry would not see the sole political power reside in the hands of the monarch. A monarch's powers and influence can be determined/defined by factors such tradition, precedent, popular opinion, and law. In addition, the heir to the throne can be male or female (Ariarh believes in the equality of the sexes). Likes the idea of tiered system as proposed by Kae: Monarch (and their dynasty), High Council, House of Commons and House of Lords (if we want a distinction between classes). The monarch will have the right to veto or sanction legislation if...
Sounds pretty good so far.
Did you want to pay Lily for her services for the training, or just have general XP. Remember, you don't need to pay her, unless you plan on retaining her services later in the field as an agent. All paying her does now is lower the cost for a friend in the field, assuming you decide to retain one.
a. Bronwyn will train with the kobolds, while enjoying nightly reads of the Draconic War Manual. He hopes to use the book to get an insight on the mindset of the kobolds (along with the Improved Unarmed Strike feat). Most of the other below are done after this training or during any off-hours.
b. He will put order on the stables, stablishing proper rules on the use of the horses and administration of their feeding. He will also train the other horses acquired from the bandits to withstand battles and combat.
c. Most importantly, he'll offer to the others his idea of stablishing a knightly order bent on defending the realm and its common people (although I'd rather have this discussion with the players and specially Alaric, maybe through skype). He will also share other ideas (detailed below).
d. He will spend some free time getting to know the people in the fortress, and scanning any of them for potential in battle. He will also offer up small jobs in the armed forces to anyone interested (such as cleaning armor, cooking, and manning the stables). His folk are likely to work on that.
e. He'll try to get to know Captain Antiene, relying on his knowledge to decide on the finer points of law. He will introduce himself to Dasha and Drake, and try to establish with him a courier service between Oleg and the fortress. He would be responsible for keeping ready horses and men, and I would do the same on the other end. He tries to meet the garrison men at Oleg, and gently sway them with tales of bravery and honor.
f. He'll finally train people on combat, mainly defensive moves. He'll prospect the trainees to discern further potential, and will offer further trainings to those who show promise.
a. Will pay the gold so Khrovin can craft my bow (how much is that?). Will take minor stuff (the pipe and tobacco, the game board, etc) from the loot. Will ask Alaric to enchant his sword to a +1 bonus (if he could make it glow a silvery light, better yet).
a. For Bronwyn, the monarchy system has an excellent quality and a terrible flaw. Succession is generally quick and easy ("The king is dead. Long live the (new) king!"), but unchecked power can easily lead to abuse of power (and nothing assures the new king should have in mind the good interests of his people). He supports Ariarh's notion of sucession by primacy not by gender.
He offers the following model:
A monarch assisted by a High Council numbering 5 or 6 chairs (each chair has 1 vote, the monarch votes last and decides on ties). This council has lower status than the monarch, but its collective might should surpass the king's and they could have right (requiring AT LEAST 5 votes out of 6) to remove a monarch if he's deemed unfit to rule. The new monarch should be his sucessor or, if no blood ties are found, drawn from the ranks of the High Council. Most decisions should be voted, with majority vote being the norm, and major ones requiring a superiority or unanimous vote.
These High Council chairs should mirror the system's Leadership positions (all titles are provisory):
Consul of the People (Councilor): Ellected from the House of Commons to represent that body's opinion on matters. He calls up votes from the population and presents these results to the High Council (also bringing to the Council requests by the people). Elections could be held every 2 years (or 1 year). Only removed by royal decree and 7 votes from the council (and maybe that shouldn't happen AT ALL, for this is the representative of the people).
Master at Arms (General): Appointed by the High Council and the monarch to lead the kingdom's army, that itself focuses on patrolling roads, guarding borders and manning military buildings. Should serve until resigned or removed from power by at least a majority vote from the High Council.
High Priest: Appointed by the High Council and the monarch from the top of local religious hierarchy (i.e. by the heads of the kingdom's churches). Should serve a term of 1 year. Maybe we could reduce it to 6 months, and have the chair always rotate from the heads of local religions (so if a priest of Erastil served as High Priest for this semester, the next one should be a priest of another religion, and so on). This would ensure all churches have their saying in local matters, and it would encourage different religions from setting up churches in the kingdom (as they'll have a say in local politics).
Master of the Hunt (Marshal): Appointed by the High Council and the monarch among the people to lead the kingdom's outriders and rangers, ensuring safety on forest areas and providing the Master at Arms with intelligence. Should serve until resigned or removed from power by at least a majority vote from the High Council.
Guardian of the Gates (Warden): Responsible for managing the armed forces responsible for city security (i.e. City Watches). Could be either elected by the House of Commons or just appointed by the High Council.
If using the House of Commons/House of Nobles idea, the Grand Diplomat could be ellected from the ranks of the House of Nobles. He/she should represent the noble families' voice, and should serve as a dignified diplomat and herald to the kingdom on foreign lands.
b. Lawful Good. These lands have been chaotic for too long, breeding bandits and cults and whatnot. People should feel better protected by a set of rules. And a government should always work for the betterment of its people.
c. Bronwyn suggests that a coronation and similar symbols of office should be sacred to a patron deity (or more than one). He suggests Erastil and Iomedae, and maybe Abadar. Worship of Asmodeus, Lamashtu, Norgorber, Rovagug, Urgathoa and Zon-Luthon, along with any cults dedicated to demon lords or infernal dukes should be prohibited (no shrines should be built, worshipers should face exile from the land if not guilty of any other crimes).
Bronwyn also proposes forming 4 different bodies of armed forces, each one with a different leader and function (all titles and symbols are provisory):
Huntsmen: Hunters, rangers, scouts and outriders focused on ensuring woods and border patrol. Could wear green cloaks as a symbol of office, with a clasp made of bone or wood in the shape of a bow. Armed with varied melee weapons, ranged weapons (bows, preferably, due to greater range), light to medium armor and counting with some light horses. Led by the Master of the Hunt.
Gatewardens: Guardsmen designed to prevent crime, disrupt fights and catch common thieves. They would patrol the streets of cities and towns and be a ostensive force of persuasion. Could wear grey (or black) cloaks with an iron clasp depicting key upright in front of a gate. Armed with non-lethal weapons (sap and batons) and one ranged weapon (possibly a crossbow due to ease of use), wearing light to medium armor (studded leather or scale armor, with officers wearing breastplates and being allowed to carry a lethal weapon). Led by the Guardian of the Gates.
Shieldbrothers: Soldiers properly, focused on patrolling roads, manning military outposts and massing in the case of war. Should follow military discipline and have a similar hierarchy. They could wear red cloaks as symbol of office, their clasp a steel shield. Armed with lethal weapons and probably shields (the specific weapon depending on their assignment; i.e. a squadron of spearmen or a sword-and-shield phalanx), medium to heavy armor (scale mail for the rank-and-file, any choice of armor for the officers); officers and captains should have horses to facilitate battlefield mobility.
Knights of Winter: The proper knighthood order of the Kingdom. They would be the wild card for the kingdom: Knights of the order serve the order directly, but could swear terms of service to nobles and institutions. They could thus be "loaned" to lead a squad of Shieldbrothers, or serve direcly as bodyguards to the members of the High Council. They would wear white cloaks clasped by a silver snowflake ("Pure as snow."). I will further elaborate on that in the future (the main purpose of the order will be to serve the kingdom according to their code).
a. Bronwyn will train with the kobolds, while enjoying nightly reads of the Draconic War Manual. He hopes to use the book to get an insight on the mindset of the kobolds (along with the Improved Unarmed Strike feat). Most of the other below are done after this training or during any off-hours.
b. He will put order on the stables, stablishing proper rules on the use of the horses and administration of their feeding. He will also train the other horses acquired from the bandits to withstand battles and combat.
c. Most importantly, he'll offer to the others his idea of stablishing a knightly order bent on defending the realm and its common people (although I'd rather have this discussion with the players and specially Alaric, maybe through skype). He will also share other ideas (detailed below).
d. He will spend some free time getting to know the people in the fortress, and scanning any of them for potential in battle. He will also offer up small jobs in the armed forces to anyone interested (such as cleaning armor, cooking, and manning the stables). His folk are likely to work on that.
e. He'll try to get to know Captain Antiene, relying on his knowledge to decide on the finer points of law. He will introduce himself to Dasha and Drake, and try to establish with him a courier service between Oleg and the fortress. He would be responsible for keeping ready horses and men, and I would do the same on the other end. He tries to meet the garrison men at Oleg, and gently sway them with tales of bravery and honor.
f. He'll finally train people on combat, mainly defensive moves. He'll prospect the trainees to discern further potential, and will offer further trainings to those who show promise.
a. Will pay the gold so Khrovin can craft my bow (how much is that?). Will take minor stuff (the pipe and tobacco, the game board, etc) from the loot. Will ask Alaric to enchant...
1. Captain N'Var is no longer in the River Kingdoms. He left some time ago and turned over the command of the garrison to the control of "commander" William Tinker.
2. Depends on the type of bow. Typically, under crafting, you need to pay a basic cost for the raw gear (in this case, if it is a msterwork bow, you need to pay 300 + cost of weapon, plus crafting time for Khrovin. I don't know specifically what type of weapon it will be, so I don't know how to answer that - it also can take longer if Khrovin attempts to craft the bow and fails a roll - if he fails bad enough he has damaged the goods and may have to start over again).
3. For simplicity I see the form of government being "Monarch: with aid of Council/Parliment"
4. No question here; you want the Kingdom to be Lawful Good.
5. Bit confused here; do you ONLY want the gods you mentioned banned, or ALL gods banned that don't conform to Lawful Good alignment?
I should note; any job you offer specifically for the form of a "hireling" has specified gold mentioned in the House Rules, for each person you hire, it will costs specific gold for a "weekly" task. The tasks you have given will be probably played out via social RP, but if you are looking to form a good group of people, a "core group" as it were, of loyal followers and trusty folk; you've seen the way to go about it.
To all...
Remember, the 48,000 GP is going to get some form of reward to supplement it. But that is pretty much the coin you are planning on using to "found your kingdom" (not counting the "reward" money, which comes Monday with the build points).
If you spend all your money on building cool weapons and gear, that is okay, but in the end, you won't have anything left for an actual kingdom...
Just something to consider.
Bronwyn also proposes forming 4 different bodies of armed forces, each one with a different leader and function (all titles and symbols are provisory):
Huntsmen: Hunters, rangers, scouts and outriders focused on ensuring woods and border patrol. Could wear green cloaks as a symbol of office, with a clasp made of bone or wood in the shape of a bow. Armed with varied melee weapons, ranged weapons (bows, preferably, due to greater range), light to medium armor and counting with some light horses. Led by the Master of the Hunt.
Gatewardens: Guardsmen designed to prevent crime, disrupt fights and catch common thieves. They would patrol the streets of cities and towns and be a ostensive force of persuasion. Could wear grey (or black) cloaks with an iron clasp depicting key upright in front of a gate. Armed with non-lethal weapons (sap and batons) and one ranged weapon (possibly a crossbow due to ease of use), wearing light to medium armor (studded leather or scale armor, with officers wearing breastplates and being allowed to carry a lethal weapon). Led by the Guardian of the Gates.
Shieldbrothers: Soldiers properly, focused on patrolling roads, manning military outposts and massing in the case of war. Should follow military discipline and have a similar hierarchy. They could wear red cloaks as symbol of office, their clasp a steel shield. Armed with lethal weapons and probably shields (the specific weapon depending on their assignment; i.e. a squadron of spearmen or a sword-and-shield phalanx), medium to heavy armor (scale mail for the rank-and-file, any choice of armor for the officers); officers and captains should have horses to facilitate battlefield mobility.
Knights of Winter: The proper knighthood order of the Kingdom. They would be the wild card for the kingdom: Knights of the order serve the order directly, but could swear terms of service to nobles and institutions. They could thus be "loaned" to lead a squad of Shieldbrothers, or serve direcly as bodyguards to the...
Cool ideas, I look forward to seeing them come together, but for now you need more people and wealth before this will happen. Personally, I like it, though.