Survival Check: 1d20+7
Smendor looks up into the sky. " It does not seem like the weather is really on your side for tracking. You have a better chance of just getting cold and sick than you do tracking anything.
1d20+6
Tessara's eyes also drift to the skys above them I believe your right Smendor...that and now that I think of it I'm to sore to ride right now, we shall go first thing in the morning. Is their any other business that I'm needed for because if not I'm going to go to bed. If she isn't needed Tess is going to find the nearest bed and collapse.
"Lady Tess", Ry hoping to speak with the elven woman before she retired for the night. "I'd be honoured to join you in tracking Happs, if you will still have me in your search party?"
Listening to her companions, Ry concurred that the journey best be left till morning. She needed some rest (and meditation) after all the healing she had performed over the past 24 hours.
I also think we should be taking a look at that letter.
"I agree with Smendor regarding the contents of the letter. Are we going to ask the pompous Squire or we just going to take it?" Ry looked around the group. She assumed if Kaid hadn't shared the contents with them by now, then he may not be willing to when asked (or he'd just give one of his flowery speeches. Internally she groaned).
Yes that's fine Ariarh she says before walking over to Ariarh and leaning in close and adding its becoming clear that us women will need to stick together for sanity sake. She then turns to Alaric and Smendor If Smendor doesn't mind being left here with Robert to guard the fort, Alaric can join us as well. Smendor I have something to discuss with you[b] she says and then pulls the dwarf aside. [b]Its come to my attention that my new armor won't allow me to wear the protective vest I usually wear under my armor, I was wondering if you could help negotiate a good price from Oleg for it, unless you want it. She paused for a second and then added jokingly It was fit for a woman but a man of your figure wouldn't have a problem filling it out I'm sure.
Kaid wants to take the following:
Kaids people have claimed the food, the six horse hitched to the wagon, the wagon, the "huge/pavillion style" tent, and the chest of coin. He is also taking the letter, and the silver Idol… the idol for reasons unknown, and the two healing kits.
He has since been persuaded by the group to leave one healing kit, and also to take enough food for ten people for ten days. This changes the ammount of food he wanted origionally (that is; all the food for thirty people for a period of several months).
Oleg has kept the food in his tavern. He is mainly interested in the food stuffs as his "cut" of the treasure. This seems sensible, as he can use them to build up his business and trade routes, and so forth, and that much food on the road will probably be too much for you guys to haul around.
Smendor speaks about what he thinks needs to happen with all the goods in respect to Squire Kaid with the others.
Thanks to the sleeping draught that Brett gave him, Squire Kaid is out for the count till morning. He does plan on leaving on morning, but is not available to contest your suggestions/ideas on what to do with the loot until he wakes up.
Brett's reaction to the division of property is two-fold.
He agrees whole-heartidly that a contract for the division of goods ought to be created so that as we all adventure together there is a method of portioning out treasure/etc.
However, as to the gear that the Squire is demanding? His opinion is that he may as well have it. It's not worth much of note, not really; with the potential exception of the silver idol... which he finds more of a cuiriosity then anything else. As for the letter... let him take it; it's his! But! That won't prevent us from making a tidy copy of it for us to look over after he leaves.
The sum of the goods that he wants for himself may be worth something now, but having a grateful noble in your pocket on a nation that is less then 40 leaagues away seems like a fair trade off. However, Brett is fairly neutral to the action. He will be more interested in seeing the contract that Smendor is drafting then arguing over some gear that a noble wants. But if the party really wants it, he will back your decision.
Survival Check: 1d20+7
Smendor looks up into the sky. " It does not seem like the weather is really on your side for tracking. You have a better chance of just getting cold and sick than you do tracking anything.
Well, remember, it is also night-time. Your abiilty to track; read weather signs; and so forth... these factors make things harder to do.
You think there is a 65% chance of more rain in the night... and the air is getting a bit chill. This does not stop you from going, but it can be difficult.
In either case, Brett is comfortable and well fed. He will go if the others want to, but warns that it is likely to be rough riding due to the weather. On the other hand, Happs may be rounding up a posse of his own... Letting him go may not have been the best plan...
On the other hand... WAIT... he only has too hands, never mind!
But Brett does add that if we go, someone should really stay and hold down the fort. Leto volunteers at this point, with Tabak.
Plans, comments, ideas?
"Whazza... healing kit... you want a healing kit... oh I don't care... take the bloody thing," he grumbles sourly, the drug seeming to take effect. Then he stumbles into the room and collapses into the bed snoring loudly...
Kaid wants to take the following:
Kaids people have claimed the food, the six horse hitched to the wagon, the wagon, the "huge/pavillion style" tent, and the chest of coin. He is also taking the letter, and the silver Idol… the idol for reasons unknown, and the two healing kits.
He has since been persuaded by the group to leave one healing kit, and also to take enough food for ten people for ten days. This changes the ammount of food he wanted origionally (that is; all the food for thirty people for a period of several months).
Oleg has kept the food in his tavern. He is mainly interested in the food stuffs as his "cut" of the treasure. This seems sensible, as he can use them to build up his business and trade routes, and so forth, and that much food on the road will probably be too much for you guys to haul around.
Number One: Make it so!"
The squire didn't say yet (but would have said if I had wrote it out... :)
"Very good all, yes; very good. Your assistance is most useful, and deserving of thanks. When I return to my estates I shall see you are properly rewarded for your noble actions in saving me and these people. We shall return there soon, when I deem the time is right. At which point I shall be taking with me . And you, good people, for your assistance in my liberation are free to take whatever else you wish and divide amongst yourself the spoils. To your valliant victory over a dark priest; his band of loyal minions; a host of bandtis; and our liberation I say... er... let me see... ah yes! Good show, all. Good show, indeed!"
At which point he waves at you all with a gentle lilting of his wrist, as if conferring a blessing on your deeds. Then he moves inside the compound.
Smendor is speaking, "I am 100% against the boy taking anything, but his shirt, shoes, and boots, but sadly you think handing a kid a lot of money will give you some future alliance with the lords to the north, while in truth they will simply laugh at the fact you gave him the money. No Noble, Lord, or entire Kingdom does anything unless you are large enough to intimidate them, and they need what you have and cannot take it or find it without your help.
Smendor is speaking, "I am 100% against the boy taking anything, but his shirt, shoes, and boots, but sadly you think handing a kid a lot of money will give you some future alliance with the lords to the north, while in truth they will simply laugh at the fact you gave him the money. No Noble, Lord, or entire Kingdom does anything unless you are large enough to intimidate them, and they need what you have and cannot take it or find it without your help.
I slap my knee and laugh.
"You're right indeed on this one... but then, some lads are more noble then other; I've met them so I know to be true. But as for this fool, I doubt it is HIS assistance that is worthwhile... Rather, I would guess who he is connected to. They may be more grateful then he seems to be... but the deal's your to make. If I had taken the coin from him in combat, or cut his throat in the fight, I'd be the happier. But for this... Well, like I said, it's your call lads. I'll back you all, either way; just so long as I hear a majority to back."
"By the way, when do you suppose we'll get a once over on that treasure contract you're drafting? I'm in no hurry on that account, but I wouldn't mind taking a look at it. Now, if you'll excuse me, I intend to start working on coppying this letter...Which reminds me, what's to become of that idol? I suspect that most of the value of that item is tied to its value to a like-minded priest. I mean, we melt it down for the raw silver it ain't worth the same as it is now. We find a high priest who eyes it right... well... But then, I ain't keen on looking for such a buyer..."
Gideon speaks to the group around the campfire,
"I need to meditate on our situation for a moment."
With That Gideon walks a short distance into the dark (within eyesight, but not earshot) and assumes the lotus position. To everyone else it appears as though he is simply sitting perfectly still with eyes closed. In fact he has internalized his consciousness and is communing with his dead master.
In the recesses of Gideons mind he finds himself floating in a featureless void except for a single flowering tree which Gideon sits beneath. Still in Lotus position even in his mental projection. "Master, I seek your guidance." WIth this pronunciation Gideon opens the eyes of his mental projection. In front of him sits his kindly old master. Master Samus says, "Speak your question Gideon. Our time is short" Gideon replies, "A chest full of riches sits at a crossroads. I need to know if keeping the chest for myself and my companions is wise or folly." WIth that Master Samus replies, ...(Insert DM Here)
Does anyone know of his house, how much land does that house have, or anything about what kind of power the little monster even has.
I will have the papers done in the morning
"A chest full of riches sits at a crossroads. I need to know if keeping the chest for myself and my companions is wise or folly." WIth that Master Samus replies, ...(Insert DM Here)
The image of your master pauses, as if seeking to give better guidance, then resumes.
"It is unwise to seek to try to see too far into the future, for all roads may lead to a failed ends, and not even the wise may yet see all choices. But I would say to thee this; should thee take upon thyself this coin it shall afford you much wealth, now. But it shall likewise afford you an enemy who is small, petty, and cruel. Though the rewards he has enlarged on are clearly elaborated brags; his potential for revenge is great. Tread, therefore, with caution, Give little concern to his friendship, and seek rather thy safety. I say to you; If you balk his threats and commands, petty though they are, he will return, and in greater force then one lone gaurd. He heart is twisted, though not altogether corrupted. If thou would wish thy safety and the coin then thy shall be wise to slay him and all those who are loyal to him. Else he will return... Did you not mark the way passion for petty revenge that he does possess in much measure? If you would avoid that vengence either allay it with courtesy or kill him now. But to do that thing; to kill him... in this you must follow thy heart and remain steadfast. Once such a deed is done, thy feet are committed to a darker destiny."
Your masters voice fades, leaving your disturbed at such a thought. You are not clear how long this process has taken, but doubt it was more then a half hour, perhaps less....
In either case, you feel refreshed, for now you see clearly what your master would have you do...
Does anyone know of his house, how much land does that house have, or anything about what kind of power the little monster even has.
Info on House Kaid...
Indeed, yes... Robert "The Drake" Tyrell knows quite a bit about House Kaid. He talked in great length about this squire a few posts back. But if you would like to know more specific information, just put up the questions and ask him. He'll be happy to answer anything specifically that you ask of him, provided he knows of it.
Smendor speaks with Robert "The Drake" Tyrell
How much land, men, or military does House Kaid have?
Would that house even be worth the effort to work with?
Can you note where they are on a map?
Gideon comes back from his meditation and rejoins the group,
I'm going to find Drake. I have some questions.
A few moments later Drake and Gideon return to the fireside,
Drake, What can you tell us about This squire's house? WHo is he and what real power within his house does he hold? Also, what interest might he have in an idol of an evil god? Does his house venerate such things?
Gideon comes back from his meditation and rejoins the group,
I'm going to find Drake. I have some questions.
A few moments later Drake and Gideon return to the fireside,
Drake, What can you tell us about This squire's house? WHo is he and what real power within his house does he hold? Also, what interest might he have in an idol of an evil god? Does his house venerate such things?
Ry was tired and knew she should be abed but she had waited and was listening in to the conversation between Brett, Gideon and Smendor.
Ry interrupts to share her thoughts.
"Gideon, perhaps the idol and the coin are not Squire Kaid's. And, doesn't it seem rather strange to be carrying that much treasure with so few a people to protect it. I'm not ignoring his servant Gerard's presence or skill. But still, he is but one man. Doesn't it strike you as strange?" Ry repeated her question twice because it was something that had been on her mind since the beginning of the companions' conversation.
"Gideon, perhaps the idol and the coin are not Squire Kaid's. And, doesn't it seem rather strange to be carrying that much treasure with so few a people to protect it. I'm not ignoring his servant Gerard's presence or skill. But still, he is but one man. Doesn't it strike you as strange?" Ry repeated her question twice because it was something that had been on her mind since the beginning of the companions' conversation.
Gideon responds,
"Exactly. So the question is, what do we do with our suspicions?"
"Gideon, perhaps the idol and the coin are not Squire Kaid's. And, doesn't it seem rather strange to be carrying that much treasure with so few a people to protect it. I'm not ignoring his servant Gerard's presence or skill. But still, he is but one man. Doesn't it strike you as strange?" Ry repeated her question twice because it was something that had been on her mind since the beginning of the companions' conversation.Gideon responds,
"Exactly. So the question is, what do we do with our suspicions?"
"And, he's also mentioned on more than one occasion that when he returns to his homeland and has made his intentions clear that we'd all be well-rewarded. Intentions, and to whom? Yes, I am suspicious of his meaning here. Perhaps, Drake can provide us with more information about the Kaid family. Maybe something about their shall we say less public alliances...?"
Questions for Drake
1. How much land, men, or military does House Kaid have?
- This is a complex question, as Drake has not seen them in some time. At last count House Kaid controlled, or had control of, 30 families that worked their fields. Of these families (each of about 4 people) they had about 120 peasants. Their property was fairly self-sufficient. They possessed a mill that was used to grind wheat; several wheat fields, and a large lumber mill. They produced furniture, and also lumber for other projects in Brevoy.
Further, at last count there were 40 low level men-at-arms that were divided for escorts and forays into the surrounding lands, and caravan guards for expeditions. His father also possesses 20 outriders, who have the speed and mobility to cover his father’s lands.
His father’s estates have control over four superior officers, or men of quality; one his personal guard, one is the “commander” of the outriders, the other the “commander” of his men-at-arms, and the last is this Gerard fellow. All told, House Kaid’s annual income was about 20,000 GP a year, approximately. It was from this that he made his goods and fortune.
HOWEVER: since the capture of House Tyrell, and the mines within, they are most likely to have expanded their abilities greatly. It is likely that with the money from the mines they could have at least doubled their guard, and most likely hired more men to govern the formal estates of the late House Tyrell, which was established in the hills by the mines.
2. Would that house even be worth the effort to work with?
- The previous information leads you to believe no. But a recent owner of a silver/iron mine may be more powerful in the last few years. He could have doubled his troops, or even tripled them, depending on his success at the mines. The mines were well formed, but House Tyrell simply ran out of people to mine the ore. Troops aside, knowing a man who has access/ownership to a silver and iron mine less then a week from Oleg’s could prove valuable to a slowly growing kingdom.
3. Can you note where they are on a map?
- In the Kingmaker Player’s guide, House Kaid and former House Tyrell are several miles east of New Stetven, the capital of Brevoy. They are located in some woody hills, and the combined estates now cover land approximately twenty square miles (extending roughly three leagues south of Lake Reykal, and six league east – west). The northern border of the estates are found on the southern end of the lake.
4. Also, what interest might he have in an idol of an evil god? Does his house venerate such things?
- Not to Drake’s knowledge. House Kaid has donated lavishly to the church of Erestil, but it always struck the majority of locals as lip-service. Drake’s personal suspicion is that the taking of the Idol is simply a plan of the good master Kaid to increase his profits on this venture. No doubt he may try to sell it on appropriate markets for its FULL value . But if he can’t find an appropriate buyer, at the very least, as it is raw silver, it can easily be disposed of at the silver mines of House Kaid, with the bringer of such goods free to increase his own personal coin.
Alaric is less interested in the dispositions of this noble than he is with our current charter which is exploration and pacification. Though trying to get on this one weasel nobles good side MAY help in the future, he does not seem to be the kind of person that would actually reward us for anything if he did not absolutely have to. My suggestion is to get what we can out of him but not make him an enemy. Let him leave with the gold if he wants, we have given him an escort. If he rewards us, wonderful, if not we have not wasted anything else on him. This letter that he has really needs to be seen before he leaves though. If nothing else to see if it is something that may harm us in the future.
Alaric is less interested in the dispositions of this noble than he is with our current charter which is exploration and pacification. Though trying to get on this one weasel nobles good side MAY help in the future, he does not seem to be the kind of person that would actually reward us for anything if he did not absolutely have to. My suggestion is to get what we can out of him but not make him an enemy. Let him leave with the gold if he wants, we have given him an escort. If he rewards us, wonderful, if not we have not wasted anything else on him. This letter that he has really needs to be seen before he leaves though. If nothing else to see if it is something that may harm us in the future.
Ry isn't interested in haggling for the gold/coin either and agrees that it's best we don't make an enemy of this man. She still has a feeling that Kaid has a hidden agenda which may impact them after the fact. The letter is a priority -- we do need to read its contents and not just hear the squire's explanation of the words contained within the letter.
Questions for Drake
1. How much land, men, or military does House Kaid have?
- This is a complex question, as Drake has not seen them in some time. At last count House Kaid controlled, or had control of, 30 families that worked their fields. Of these families (each of about 4 people) they had about 120 peasants. Their property was fairly self-sufficient. They possessed a mill that was used to grind wheat; several wheat fields, and a large lumber mill. They produced furniture, and also lumber for other projects in Brevoy.
Further, at last count there were 40 low level men-at-arms that were divided for escorts and forays into the surrounding lands, and caravan guards for expeditions. His father also possesses 20 outriders, who have the speed and mobility to cover his father’s lands.
His father’s estates have control over four superior officers, or men of quality; one his personal guard, one is the “commander” of the outriders, the other the “commander” of his men-at-arms, and the last is this Gerard fellow. All told, House Kaid’s annual income was about 20,000 GP a year, approximately. It was from this that he made his goods and fortune.
HOWEVER: since the capture of House Tyrell, and the mines within, they are most likely to have expanded their abilities greatly. It is likely that with the money from the mines they could have at least doubled their guard, and most likely hired more men to govern the formal estates of the late House Tyrell, which was established in the hills by the mines.
2. Would that house even be worth the effort to work with?
- The previous information leads you to believe no. But a recent owner of a silver/iron mine may be more powerful in the last few years. He could have doubled his troops, or even tripled them, depending on his success at the mines. The mines were well formed, but House Tyrell simply ran out of people to mine the ore. Troops aside, knowing a man who has access/ownership to a silver and iron mine less then a week from Oleg’s...
Ry ponders the information provided by Drake in answer to the questions by Smendor and Gideon.
"Again, this information begs me to ask, why is Kaid out here pretty much alone with Gerard as his only protector/guard? His family obviously has the means to provide more escorts, and even hire more if necessary, but hasn't done so at this time."
"Good questions all... seems like the best thing we should do is ask the lad when he wakes up... He seems a bit off... Meantime, I think I'll settle in for a bit. Had a bit of work today, I need to sleep. So, heigh-ho, I'm off to bed,"
With that he gets up and wanders back to where he had slept the night before and in moments you hear contented snoring from where he made his bunk.
Kaid Awakens…
The new day rises to find you waking in the morning. Kaid is bleary eyed and says little, seeming to be overly exhausted. He is haughty and grouchy with his bodyguard, ordering Gerard to “fetch” him breakfast, and other tasks he could no doubt do, but doesn’t feel like.
Even as this is going on, Leto has begun the preparation of the wagon, which he has hitched and made ready with warm furs and blankets. With his share of the loot, fully a 1,000 gold pieces, he decided to buy from Oleg some basic heavy furs and blankets for the children on the way back. The rest he has packed up into a large sack that he has given Tabak.
As you exit the large gate, knowing you have some time before Kaid formally leaves (at least until after breakfast) you notice that Drake has been busy in the evening. To the eastern side of Oleg’s inn he has taken the wooden stakes he had uprooted in the night and has driven them into damp earth to form a crudely made corral for the horses. They are currently inside this corral, and are huddled together for warmth.
Even as you walk around you have heard some argument, and rush back inside, for there is the sounds of yells and commotion. Inside you see Kaid and Gerard are squaring off with Drake, who is standing in front of a confused and frightened looking girl, the very same “Dasha” who had been following Drake around the night before.
You see right away that Gerard’s weapon is drawn, but it is more of a defensive posture. Yet neither Gerard nor Drake seem like attacking. If anything, it is Kaid that seems to be making aggressive advances; but his posture is poor and his stance weak. He is having trouble keeping his feet, and is waving a short sword around like a club, still sleepy. You hear Gerard saying again “M’lord, it’s not worth it. She is nothing, let’s be off!”
All the while Kaid is muttering about peasant scum, and “usurpers” which you gradually realize he means to suggest that someone has “usurped his authority” and is not referring to political dissidents, rather, the fact that he isn’t getting his way.
To put it simply, Drake has decided that he is staying with Oleg; and offering his services as a stable-keeper for the horses and a guard against possible other rogues so that he can help to pay back the damages he has caused as a bandit. This pleases Oleg, who has taken a shine to Drake, and is impressed with Drake’s determination to “do right”.
However, it is at this point, when discovering that Drake will be staying with Oleg, that Dasha has insisted that she too will stay. She adds there is nothing for her in Brevoy, her home is Ustalav, and that she would rather stay here and help with the horses then be taken to Brevoy. The Squire is attempting to insist that she comes with him “for protection”, but she cites the fact that she is seventeen, and the legal age of adulthood is sixteen. Therefore, she is not obligated to do anything he says.
At this point Kaid had pulled his sword, insisting that Drake had seduced and corrupted her. Drake and the girl denied this, but Kaid was more interested in his own opinions, claiming he must duel Drake for “a matter of honor”. Drake refused the duel, claiming the whole thing was idiotic, and demanded that “Squire Kaid” leave. At this point Gerard has intervened; but only to prevent a possible combat.
This is just when you arrive… so, what do you do?
Gideon comes into the room and stands between the two combatants.
To squire Kaid,
Good Sir, No one has usurped your authority. This woman is new to adulthood and as such is bound to make several mistakes as we all have. If she wishes to not partake in your very generous offer to travel back to civilization she is free to do so. Unless,of course, you claim ownership in which case we need to be having a very different conversation. Lets all put our weapons down and you can start your trip knowing that you will be honored when you return to your family with the spoils you've obtained. Perhaps they'll throw a parade in your honor.
Gideon comes into the room and stands between the two combatants.
To squire Kaid,
Good Sir, No one has usurped your authority. This woman is new to adulthood and as such is bound to make several mistakes as we all have. If she wishes to not partake in your very generous offer to travel back to civilization she is free to do so. Unless,of course, you claim ownership in which case we need to be having a very different conversation. Lets all put our weapons down and you can start your trip knowing that you will be honored when you return to your family with the spoils you've obtained. Perhaps they'll throw a parade in your honor.
Ariarh is standing close by as Gideon works on the Squire Kaid with his conciliatory words and is impressed with his calm demeanour and respectful manner. She hopes the 'good' Squire will heed Gideon's wise counsel. This strutting peacock is getting on her last nerves. She wonders if the Squire has any sense at all.
Stepping forward, Ry decides to add her two cents to gain favour with this odious man.
"Good Squire Kaid. You strike me as a man with astute business savvy and a deep compassion for these folk under your care. I do believe you can see the wise economic sense of leaving this lass, Dasha, here at the trading post. It would not only save you in food supplies, but also the cost of time in protecting her on your journey homeward. She has already shown what a headstrong young woman she can be and would only cause you and the rest of your party inconvenience if she were forced to return with you. Indeed, you have enough people remaining to worry over and it serves you credit in the undertaking.
Stepping nearer to the Squire, but not too close, she continues.
"Can you find it in your heart to lay this matter to rest and be satisfied that your actions were honourable both to her virtue and person? By your actions in protecting this lass' virtue you have set a fine and mighty example for the rest of us at this post. I do believe the girl will be safe under the supervision of our kind patrons, Oleg and Svetlana. She will come to no harm and may perhaps mature in her hard labour, and, you will know that it will be, in great part, due to your reasonable nature and prudence." Ry wanted to expel a long breath after such a long-winded dialogue but instead she turned her brightest and most reverent smile toward the Squire Kaid. She despised feigning sincerity but there were times it was necessary and expedient. Ry missed the common sense of the people she grew up around.
"Hmmm... Hurumph... Well, very well... I don't quite give a damn in any case... let the little strumpet stay then..." he growls.
His words are still slurred and there is no longer any sign of smooth veneer which you had seen yesterday. You suspect this is due to the fact that he is having trouble because of the residual effects of the drug. But in either case, it is of no consequence, as he grudgingly goes about stomping out to the wagon to await the rest of his passangers. You see him climb behind the buckboard and fold his arms, his head lolling toward his chest, with an impatient frown on his face.
Gerard seems crimson in embarrasemnt and bows several times politely at you, apologizing for the behaviour. In moments he and Leto have gathered the children and the baggage and with a flick of the reigns they are off, the horses hooves sounding sloppy on the damp ground.
Drake watches the exit with cold ice in his eyes, but says nothing. For a moment it seems that this Dasha girl would say something, but she quickly hurries inside away from so many stern strangers to "assist" Svetlana in the kitchen.
Leto, as he leaves, shakes his head with a wry grin on it.
"Don't worry, you did your best with him, but I have a week to smooth out any... er... chinks in his attitude. By tomorrow he'll have fortotten this event and I'll be telling him fine details on how wonderful it will be to return home with the children... he'll be so excited to be a local hero for a day, he'll remember this event with fondness for you, no doubt. Trust me"he adds the last with a wink and you have no doubt his words are true.
He and Tabak hurry off after the wagon, and each of you let out a large expulsion of air that the "good squire" is finally gone.
"Thank the gods above! Brett mutters. "Now,"he adds swinging out a chair and hopping into it, getting comfortable "what's next? What's the plan here? Breakfast, tracking, hunting, exploring? I'd settle for all of them, in that order... but how about you chaps decide. I'm eager for ideas... I've seen enough of this place and wouldn't mind getting on the road again. Plus, there is the Charter to consider, I suppose..." he says, as if suddenly remembering the reason he was here.
Brett looks around expectantly, awaiting your thoughts and ideas. Now that the squire is gone, you'll no doubt have big plans, and he'd like to hear them.
Gerard seems crimson in embarrasemnt and bows several times politely at you, apologizing for the behaviour. In moments he and Leto have gathered the children and the baggage and with a flick of the reigns they are off, the horses hooves sounding sloppy on the damp ground.
After the squire has left the room, but gerard reamains for a moment. Gideon speaks softly as to allow those in the room to hear, but not the Squire.
You have my sympathies."Thank the gods above! Brett mutters. "Now,"he adds swinging out a chair and hopping into it, getting comfortable "what's next? What's the plan here? Breakfast, tracking, hunting, exploring? I'd settle for all of them, in that order......
In response Gideon says,
Though my skills at it are limited, if its at all possible we should make an effort to track down this Haps fellow. He could be troublesome if not dealt with.
Smendor just cannot hold it back any longer, his face turns red, his hands begin to shake, and a great explosion of Smendor's deep voice comes forth in a great belly laugh. He is laughing so hard he falls over and holds his stomach due to the pain.
Speaking and laughing at the same time he gets a few word out, ”I think you just took Kaid play thing. Smendor is pointing at Drake with a quivering finger.
At some convent time Gideon is going to talk to Oleg about the kinds of Items he may be interested in case they come through the trading post. Assume Gideon is also interested in gear relating to these items also (exploding sling stones, magic bulltes/bolts etc)
Sling
Halfling Sling Staff (haven't decided if the feat is worth it, but still curious)
Crossbow
shrunken (magic or otherwise, but he's particularily interested in shrunken with the returning property. Bane returning shrunken are also interesting, but probably rarer. FYI these are super cheap. The cost of a +2 weapon divided by 50)
All manner of staves, magic or otherwise.
After Smendor is done laughing and completed his morning wash.
Oleg are there any local settlers in the area? We need to start getting a list of all the lawful families, croppers, and hunters in the area. I would also like to pay them a visit to see if they know anything. Wondering around in a forest is a quick way to find nothing more than trees.
In response Gideon says,
Though my skills at it are limited, if its at all possible we should make an effort to track down this Haps fellow. He could be troublesome if not dealt with.
I do not believe we will have any luck getting Haps now. He has too great of a lead on us now. If we were going to go after him it would have been better to go right after the battle. We should start the exploration of the greenbelt as our charter says. I believe a good way to do this would be to grid out the area and explore it section by section starting with the area around Olegs and working our way outward.
I do not believe we will have any luck getting Haps now. He has too great of a lead on us now. If we were going to go after him it would have been better to go right after the battle. We should start the exploration of the greenbelt as our charter says. I believe a good way to do this would be to grid out the area and explore it section by section starting with the area around Olegs and working our way outward.
In response Gideon says,
Though my skills at it are limited, if its at all possible we should make an effort to track down this Haps fellow. He could be troublesome if not dealt with.
In response Gideon says,
"As I said, my skills at tracking are limited. If it's far too unlikely to be a wise use of our time than so be it. Exploration is an excellent idea. Perhaps the fates will send Haps our way as we explore."
Yes, we need to explore, but it needs to be done with a purpose, so we need to get all the information we can before walk off into the wilderness.
After a time in the chat
It is also going to be getting cold very soon. We will need to cover a lot of space and fast. It could be best to spit into 2 or 3 groups.
Tessara wakes in the morning to the sound of smendor's gutfilled laughter, fully rested for the first time in a while. She stretches and goes out to the common area to find that the Squire had already gone. She is wearing little but her undershirt and a pair of torn pants, feeling it to early to wear her battle gear. She listens to the plans for the day and frowns as she realizes that they are probably right, she won't have a chance to find Haps today. She does like the exploration idea and the idea of splitting into groups. I think we should split into two groups. Ariarh, Gideon, and I in one group and Smendor, Aloric, and Brett in the other. My group will head southeast while the other group could head southwest. We meet back here tonight to discuss what we found. Unless we want to venture a little further and report back in two days? I'm open to negotiate how far we go. Anyone have any other suggestions?
EDIT: Changed my post so we head to the right hexes according to the DM's email.
Speaking and laughing at the same time he gets a few word out, ”I think you just took Kaid play thing. Smendor is pointing at Drake with a quivering finger.
Kaid merely regards Smendor flatly.
"You may heap abuse on me, if it eases your mind; but don't mock the girl. What? Are you saying she is a common harlot, or a slave? No, I don't care for an answer. I will just say again, that your words are rude, and to mock a young girls virtue is not necessary."
You seem to have touched a nerve with Drake, Smendor. He looks at you, as if awaiting an apology.
Okay, let me know what you do...
The kingmaker campaign has set up a rather unique and elegant method for traveling and exploring the surrounding Terrain; this is stated because hitherto these rules there have been others published. We shall be using these rules.
The basic idea is that a party will have various “hexes” to explore. Each “hex” covers roughly 150 miles completely, but is 12 miles corner to corner. There are two methods a player can use to move over a hex. The first method is simply “walking”. This speed is faster, and will no doubt be used later. The second is “exploring”.
Exploring a hex takes much more time. It typically involves covering the entire area, and discovering rare and unusual things in the area (such as monsters or old lairs). Once a party fully explores a “hex” they gain 100 XP. Exploration takes much longer then traveling. However, once a player has explored an area, they may want to return to Oleg’s to get fresh supplies. At this time, they will now have to cover new ground but first past through old ground. Traveling back over fully explored terrain in a manner called “traveling” is the simplest way to handle it.
Exploring the Stolen Lands
Traveling (Time to cross 1 hex)
Party Speed......Plains........ All Other Terrains
15 feet .........11 hours.......16 hours
20 feet ..........8 hours.......12 hours
30 feet ..........5 hours........8 hours
40 feet ..........4 hours........6 hours
50 feet ..........3 hours........5 hours
Exploring (Time to fully explore 1 hex)
Party Speed....Plains.....Forest/Hill/Swamp....Mountain
15 feet...........3 days.....4 days...............5 days
20 feet...........2 days.....3 days...............4 days
30 feet...........1 day......2 days...............3 days
40 feet...........1 day......1 day................2 days
50 feet...........1 day......1 day................1 day
Simply calculate the slowest party member’s speed, and go from there. I have also decided to forward on everyone a copy of the explored Map so far, as well as a basic calendar. Please check your email for that.
"Now... as I understand it..."Brett says looking over his copy of the charter and the loose map he is inscribing "this area is controlled and owned by none. None have a claim to anything beyond this here red line. If I am reading this correctly, this land has been "granted" to the first person who explores it by the provincial government of Brevoy... hmmm..." he ponders some notes and letters and looks up at you after a moment.
"In other words, Brevoy doesn't own the land, nor do they, or really anyone, seem to contest who DOES own the land. Instead, they're basically "allowing" us the chance to map it out. If we map it out, we're then "allowed" to make use of the resources we find. It's really a win-win for them. If we find something good out there, line silver mines, we can set up mines and become rich and trade it with them. We put up all the expense, and as they're our neighbors we'll need to do what we can to get supplies and they'll happily help us by sending gear and so forth, when they can; if they get a piece of trading with our mines. On the other hand, if we REALLY strike it rich and turn down their "friendship" then we're not freinds but enemies, and they have the muslce to come in and take whatever we end up setting up." he chews on his thumbnail a bit before continuing.
"As I see it, our task is to fan out and explore the terrain. Every thing that we map out with exploration is "technically" under OUR jurisdiction, as we set it. Basically, we OWN it, unless someone tries to contest it (like a native or something). I think we need to create some sort of law or something ourselves. You know, determine how we want to divide the loot or what-have-you, and how we to portion control. If I go riding with you lads and we find a silver mine out here... well, I'd like it iin writing to know who gets what; and so would you, know doubt. And what about expenses, and so forth? If someone falls ill, what do we do with them? How is that handled? Smendor, you mentioned something about creating such a ledger, well... how's it going?
"What direction do we journey, and when do we start? And how long do we intend to travel? Oleg may have some tips, so let's here what HE has to say..."
Oleg is sipping a steaming cup of coffee and walks over to you.
"With respects, masters, I cannot offer you much help. The road this outpost is built on travels only a few miles to the south east before it is eaten up in nake grassland. The nearest settlement is north of here, roughly two to three days journey, if you take the road. I have set up my shop far from noble folk so I can be my OWN master, beholden to none. And none be comming here but trappers, scouts and rangers; on occassion. We may see more then less as the winter comes on and they look for places to stay warm in the chill, and then again... we may not. But unless you wish to travel north to the town above, and back (like as not that'll take you at LEAST five days of travel), then there is nothing closer to help. I am truly sorry." he adds the last with a sad shake of his head.
"Well, can't be helped, but you did a damn fine job so far, old chap."Brett responds somewhat cheerfully. "What direction are you lads in favor of? Stybba is already mounted and ready, all we need to do is follow your lead."[/b] he adds with a grin.
You CAN explore while mounted, however there may be "delays" as in, exploring a landmark, or getting into trouble, which could take you longer. Also, you only move as fast as your slowest player. So unless Smendor can ride a horse, that needs to be figured out.
Tessara looks over the map that Brett pulls out and then speaks up Well pending my group's approval I say we explore hex A. I'm pretty sure all of us can ride so it should only take us about a day to explore everything unless of course we find something of interest. She turns to the members of her perposed group, Ry and Gideon Does that sound like a plan to you? Of course I would need to borrow one of the newly acquired horses, since I didn't come here with one of my own, but I would prefer exploring mounted when we can.
Tessara looks over the map that Brett pulls out and then speaks up Well pending my group's approval I say we explore hex A. I'm pretty sure all of us can ride so it should only take us about a day to explore everything unless of course we find something of interest. She turns to the members of her perposed group, Ry and Gideon Does that sound like a plan to you? Of course I would need to borrow one of the newly acquired horses, since I didn't come here with one of my own, but I would prefer exploring mounted when we can.