Arodus 31st, 4713
A small caravan, consisting of three wagons and several horses, makes it's way down the lonely Southern Brevoy Road. As the last day of summer begins winding into the late afternoon, a small wooden fort comes into view, if one squints past the glare of the sun a green strip of forest lies a few miles to the southwest. When one of the wagons and s a few of the horsemen turn to the north to bypass the fort, it becomes clear that many of you are headed to the fort.
Next to the first wagon, being driven by a young human woman sitting next to an elven man and a rather large dog, ride two gentlemen whose gear denotes them as devotees of Abadar. The wagon looks simple and functional, though it clatters and clinks up a racket.
The second wagon appears more lived in and is painted quite festively. It is being driven by a shapely varisian woman dressed in traditional varisian clothing.
Riding next to the second wagon is a young half-elven man of Tian descent on a pale bluish-white horse. He wears a smile at most times, though his eyes are often on the horizon. His shoulders often sport an energetic fox.
Following up the group are two riders accompanied by a large wolf.
The two riders are a solid man wearing full-plate with black hair, blue eyes and a wicked grin. Aside a large man of obvious orcish descent, geared in all manner of tools. The orcish man has been rather quiet and kept to feeding the wolf jerky most of the journey.
Patting his horse as they travel, he speaks a few soft words of Minkaian to his fox as if the critter understands what he is saying. Oddly enough, the fox has two tails, which when the animal sits on his shoulders often end up wrapped around his neck like a scarf.
Looking over to Esmeralda, his rich chocolate eyes continue to take in every detail of their surroundings, it is as if he never stops searching and detailing their surroundings and their traveling companions.
"I wonder what our first task will be. It seems like there is so much to do down here from I have heard," there is excitement in his voice that belies the age upon him. He sounds like a young teenager on his first trip outside of the city.
Berryn sways slightly as his heavy warhorse strides down the road. He wears clerical vestments and an exquisite holy symbol of Abadar that, upon closer inspection, appears to be constructed from adamantite and platinum. It glitters brilliantly as the late afternoon sun catches it.
During their travels, the man had introduced himself as Berryn Varron, a cleric from the Church of Abadar. Unlike most clerics, Berryn is incredibly muscular, on a par with the most battle-hardened of fighters. Despite this, however, he is a very wise man who always seems to have an answer to questions asked.
"Glory to Abadar for this afternoon," he says to his riding companion, Jeremiah. "Such a verdant and plentiful land shall surely grant us an ability to bring great commerce to the area, and with commerce shall come the Law."
Berryn lapses into silence as he considers the artifact that sits within his saddlebags. Once they erect a city, Berryn would need to seek out a suitable protector; failing that, he would take the honour upon himself.
As the other wagon and horsemen turn to the north, Berryn takes his first good look at the fort. With this place being their base of operations for some time, it would make sense to study it well.
"Tell me, Jeremiah, what do you know of the people who operate this fort? Are they dependable? Do they know of commerce, or they attempting to avoid the strictures and regulations that bind such things?"
Good evening everyone, names Tulsino.
Tulsino puffs out his chest to display the symbol of Iomedae emblazoned upon his armor proudly. There is a greatsword strapped to his horse in an easy to reach position. He is slightly gaunt, but you can see that he moves in his armor with ease. He is very charismatic and is completely aware of the effect his presence has on others.
He turns to Brennyn and points at himself.
Law's already here.
He then breaks his gaze and looks at the others.
A basecamp is not a bad idea. Probably safest in the fort, maybe they will have room in the barracks for us? If not, should not be too difficult to setup a defensive position to watch the tree line.
Tulsino then breaks ahead as if to take lead of the group.
So what are your skills, I see we have one merchant. Anyone skilled with the sword or bow? Maybe one of yah knows a magic trick or two?
Garr'ak would remain quiet, as he had for most of their journey so far. He did not know what to expect of these people. Would they be like so many others and judge before reason had been given? Either way, he meant to make the most of this trip.
To calm his nerves, he would lean down in his saddle and run a hand through Geoffrey's messy hair. He knew the wolf would always be there for him and that simple fact made everything barable. His only hope now was to forge out a better life for the two of them.
Then, as the pretty boy opened his mouth and stated the obvious, he would roll his eyes. Yes, walls tended to have the odd nature of supplying safety to those within them.
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At the touch, Geoffrey would turn his head up to his master for a brief moment before turning its head back out towards the wilderness that surrounded them. Despite the urge to run free, he would continue along at Garr'ak's side.
Brennyn smiles at Tulsino as a parent might smile at a child.
"While I don't deny that Iomedae's followers pursue justice, I've found in my dealings with them that they are slightly more... interpretive in their application than the Law allows," Brennyn replies to Tulsino.
"Rest assured that, should we need some muscle with which to apply the tenets of the Law, you shall be our first port of call," he continues, his tone ever so slightly condescending.
"As a senior representative of the Church of Abadar, I am here to ensure that this expedition not only succeeds, but that it does so phenomenally. Once we have cleared the area and raised a city, it shall fall to me to ensure that the Law is followed to the letter, and that the city is adequately defended from interlopers," Brennyn espouses, "Of course, Abadar does not govern every aspect of life and so other gods will be more than willing to send their flock to our doorstep, but the city's primary function shall be to bring civilisation and commerce to these backwaters. I've spent many years establishing pockets of civilisation throughout the River Kingdoms but it isn't enough. They are too reliant on the tradition of their River Freedoms. Only through the proper application of the Law can we guide them to true civilisation and the benefits that it brings."
"As a trained cleric, I shall act as both spiritual advisor and healer whilst also aiding in combat where I can. As my skills grow, I shall also seek to craft various potions and items that shall aid the growth of civilisation in these Stolen Lands," Brennyn continues apace, scarcely pausing to draw breath.
My aim is to keep the city safe from would be attackers. If that attack is perpetrated from within, those responsible will be dealt with to the full extent that the law allows.
Tulsino wears a smile and flexes his bicep.
I believe we have the same goal and, as you say, I will be the "muscle" only when it needs flexing.
He now grabs the hilt of his sword.
For now I will just try and protect these citizens to my greatest ability. That, I believe, is Iomedae's will. But as you are a man of the cloth, I am glad to have you along.
Tulsino nod's in approval at Brennyn.
A fashionably, for Taldor, dressed half-elven man rides up behind the caravan. His destrier breathing heavily, the scent of womens powder rooms and perfume follows him. Severak dainty tokens adorn him, clearly given by women hoping to gain his favor.
Brennyn accepts Tulsino's nod with a gracious smile, nodding in return. As Galba addresses him, he turns to face her.
"Alas, I have not had a long time to practice my potion-making skills, as my duties have kept me elsewhere for some time. However, now that I shall have some leeway in my schedule, I would expect you would be able to show me how it is done," Brennyn flashes a smile at her. As the half-elf canters up behind him, Brennyn shifts in his saddle to get a better view of him.
"Abadar's blessings, young man, may we be of assistance?" Brennyn asks.
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Cursing the apple ale the night before, Cato spurs his horse to a stop, nodding to the group.
Ladies and gentlemen. My apologies for the lateness of my arrival. I trust the journey has been uneventful so far.
Cato looks at the large dog, wondering what breed it is. He nods approvingly, winking at it, promising secretly to give it some of his dinner. His gaze lingers on the Varisian woman before moving on to the Tian man of Elvish heritage. He denotes human heritage as well and nods knowingly. He spots the fox peeking up from behind. Another morsel for that lovely creature as well. As the fox creeps up to sit, Cato can’t help but hide is astonishment at the sight of his two tails. Veeeeery interesting!
He takes a glance at the large wolf then back at the first dog, realizing how much a difference evolution can make in a species. That one will get two morsels! Cato puffs out his chest a bit at the half-orc in order to appear bigger, sitting up straighter in his seat, failing miserably. He nods in the hopes of not looking weak. All the half-orcs he has known could break him in half, have a temper, and weren’t very talkative. But they could be a great ally in times of need. Recognizing the half-orc’s quietness as caution and not timidness, he nods empathetically, knowing full well the stereotypes that exist regarding half-breeds.
As Cato wonders who the leader of the group is or who it will be, he jostles his horse into a walk with the others. He sees the man with the prominently displayed symbol of Iomedae and recognizes confidence. Perhaps it will be he.
I heard speak of skills. I have my own to offer, though they shall come out in due time as circumstances present.
The man next to Brennyn on horseback is a bit of a contrast to the clear ideaolouge. His dress show no immediate connection to Abadar's clergy; he wears a thick leather duster, wide brimmed hat, and clothing more used for extended exploration in the wilds than patrol of a city block. If not for his generally well-kempt appearance and the silver gleam of the holy symbol occasionally visible beneath his jacket, he could easily be a simple mercenary or hired thug, an impression his severe expression does little to offset. At the cleric's words, though, his face lightens slightly and he turns his attention from the wilderness spread before them to address his companion's words.
"Have to say, it's been a bit since there was anything but cobblestone under my feet; a lot of work's been in the cities lately. Be good to go after straight-forward banditry again; tends to be simpler." He smiles wanly. "Can't say the old home's too happy that the Sword-lords are holding this contract, but the job's the job."
Looking back out at the woods, he continues. "Having a fort built probably puts more on the right side of Abadar than anything; trying to avoid him entirely would generally call for a lower profile then a outpost by a trade road. But being so remote does tend to lead to one being a mite bit forgetful about things such as one's taxes and the like. Haven't been out this way in recent memory, so I can't tell you anything personal 'bout them."
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I will mearly state that my bow is quite useful for now, though my keen intellect and wit shal surely be useful as well. Thaleles exclaims. He reaches over and pets his young pup, knowing what he keeps in his vest. He then turns to Galba and quips Does this mean your fatuation with me is at an end then?
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Galba laughs heartily, Of course not silly goose, I am yours until you say otherwise. In the mean time I wonder how old Olreg is doing? I haven't heard from him in some time. I hope that last order of furs made it from Restove. Svetla sent me a message some time ago about it andI haven't heard news sense. We should hurry and investigate. Thaleles hangs his head down as she wraps her arms around him, then shrugs her off. From the look of his face, one could tell he is hoping to drop her off somewhere very soon.
My aim is to keep the city safe from would be attackers. If that attack is perpetrated from within, those responsible will be dealt with to the full extent that the law allows.
...
For now I will just try and protect these citizens to my greatest ability. That, I believe, is Iomedae's will. But as you are a man of the cloth, I am glad to have you along.
Tulsino nod's in approval at Brennyn.
Jeremiah nods at the swordsman in a guardedly friendly manner. "Ain't worked with any of the Inheritor's lot recently. Heard there's a spot of trouble up north that most of your's were running to. You lot tend to to pretty good work regardless; should make this enterprise a fair bit simpler." At the question of martial talents, he reaches over his back to pat a nearly ebony-colored crossbow, accented with the occasional bronze fitting. "I generally stick with the little miss here, but I'm not useless it things get cozy in a scrap. Can work a wee bit of magic as well, though Brennyn got me fairly beat in that regard."
I see. Well I would hope we will at least get along. If we are going to run into trouble, it would be best to know that you can trust the man at your side.
Tulsino turns to Gabla.
And Ladies.
He then glances back at Thaleles.
If you do not wish to elaborate on your true skill, that is fine. I let it freely be known that my skill lies with my blade.
Tulsino nods at Cato appreciatively.
Glad to have you aboard.
He turns to the rider who approaches.
Greetings, we are emissaries of the Great Lord Noleski Surtova, current Regent of the Dragonscale Throne. By his authority, we seek shelter so that we might continue on our mission of exploration for the kingdom of Restov. Will you be able to accomodate us?
Jeremiah snorts lightly in amusement at the two elves behind him, though the words of one catch his interest. Slowing his horse to sidle alongside them, he asks, "This Olreg and Svetla; traders, I'm guessing? What sort of folk are we looking at?"
As Garr'ak's gaze fell upon the a half-elf that was trying far too hard to appear larger than he was, his eyebrow would raise and he would think to himself.
What's wrong with that one?
However, as Cato nodded in his direction, Garr'ak would nod in return. While he might not be well-versed in the art of manners, he did know when to respond.
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As the others started to list off their talents, Garr'ak would look to his equipment. Little of it would be considered a weapon in conventional terms, besides the hand crossbow he had recently purchased. However, Garr'ak was no conventional fighter. He had a knack for using conventional items in rather unconventional ways.
Giving a soft pat to the wrench that hung from his belt, he would turn his gaze forward once more. That wrench has seen as many fights as it had repairs.
As you ride closer to the fort you can see a fit but older man working on the gate. He waves as you ride closer though it will still be a few minutes until he's within earshot.
As the group approaches the fortress, Jeremiah pulls a waterskin from his backpack and leans back to drink, only to nearly drop it, one hand reaching for his crossbow. "Hey everybody, eyes to the sky, looks like there's some serious company passing through. Black dragon, by the looks of it." He squints slightly. "Don't look like it's paying us much mind, and from the size of the thing, can't blame it. But what's those things flying next to it?"
Tulsino spots the man and looks to the others.
I will go ahead and make our presence known so that we might expedite our entrance to the city.
Upon hearing Jeremiah's warning he will look to the sky.
Tulsino will gallop ahead and keep an eye out for any sort of ambush. If he spots something in the sky he will draw his sword. Regardless, he will move up to the man at the gate.
At the mention of trouble, Garr'ak's eyes would turn towards the sky as quickly as he pulled old rusty from the belt loop it sat in at his side.
As Tulsino, Thaleles and, Galba ride ahead.
The man on the gate climbs down and waves again, he is a well-built man with blond hair kept out of his face with a headband, wearing a stern but calm demeanor. Ho there! About time you lot showed up. I was expectin' a bit more armor and a bit less womenfolk with you though. He looks at you all quizically. His scarred strong hands wield a thick work hammer, while his clothes are simple and practical. A woman smudged by the dust and dirt of the fort smiles from the door of the largest building in the fort.
We brought plenty of armor, might you open your gates so that we may enter?
Tulsino smiles back and winks at the woman. He then tries to figure out what the man is talking about.
The man stares at you for a moment as the rest of the group rides up, most of whom are watching the strange aerial sight fade into the distance.
I guess you might as well come in, bring your wagons up next to the stable.
As he turns and walks through the gate towards the woman in the doorway.
Tulsino bows graciously to the man and motions for the wagons to do as instructed. He then looks around the fort.
Brennyn's face pales slightly as he recognises the Thriae from some of the works that the Church had on planar foes.
"Everyone inside the fort, now," he urges as he rides past on his warhorse, Valour. "Well spotted, Jeremiah, those creatures with the dragon are Thriae. Their appearance is a trifle concerning, as that means there may be greater dangers out here than we first surmised."
Brennyn turns to the owner of the fort and gives a small bow.
"I am Brennyn Varron, representative of the Church of Abadar. We are here to help settle these lands. In exchange for you allowing us to use your fort as a base of operations, we are prepared to recompense you adequately, as well as earn not inconsiderable advantage once we establish a settlement. Being the first trader in such a place would surely be of some benefit to you, no?" Brennyn extends his hand to shake Oleg's.
"I shall allow the others to make their introductions while I begin drawing up the contract that shall keep both parties bound by the Law," Brennyn continues, whether Oleg shakes his hand or not. "Although I would appreciate a rundown on the problems you have been facing recently. After all, forewarned is forearmed, is it not?"
Brennyn turns to his warhorse and retrieves a scroll case, from which he pulls some parchment, an ink vial and an inkpen. Setting them to one side, he ties up Valour before looking for a bench or other flat surface upon which to write.
"Appreciate the courtesy." Jeremiah replies lightly, distracted by the dragon disappears over the horizon. "That a common sight out here?"
As Brennyn sits, he motions towards the stockpile of furs.
"Your stocks appear low, are you that successful or is there a problem with supply?" Brennyn sets out his scrivener's kit to begin drawing up the contract. "Also, is there a nearby supply of stone or shall we have to send a missive to Restov for the reinforcement of the walls?"
A small ioun stone circles slowly around Brennyn's head, and the rest of the party may just realise that they have not seen him eat or drink since the start of the journey.
Oleg stares off in the direction Jeremiah pointed but doesnt seem to see anything, he shrugs. Then he glares at Brennyn Of course my damn stocks are low ya idjit! Those damned bandits take it every month! That's why I sent to Restov for reinforcements two months ago!
The woman steps up next to him placing a calming hand on his arm. Pardon my husband, I'm Svetlana we were begining to wonder if Restov would ever send troops to help us. Please come in I'm preparing supper now. She gestures towards a set of tables between the house/office and the bunkhouse.
Tulsino dismounts his horse and straps his sword to his back. Then he bows to the lady and gives a dirty look to Oleg.
Many thanks for your hospitality M'Lady, the ride was long and I for one am very thankful. What might you be preparing this evening?
He waits for her reply.
Sounds delicious. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.
He then takes a seat at the table.
Smiling to the obvious lady of the house, he nods as he slides from his saddle, "Thank you, Lady Svetlana, you honor us with your graciousness." His tone and mannerisms change slightly in the presence of Oleg and his wife, giving a bow to them as he follows forward. "Shall we stable our own horses, Lady Svetlana?"
Jeremiah looks to Oleg in surprise. "There's been a collar out on a group around here for two months?" He scowls to the north while muttering, "Been looking for work for months, and all I've been gettin' is track down my rich brat and spook him home jobs, damned useless guard captains..."
He then turns his attention to the half-orc among them. "Don't remember catching your name, but I remember the 'lords trusting you with our paperwork. You mind letting me take a look at that? Looks like there's more doin' to be done than expected, and I'd like to be able to work out a few of the details."
The Varisian woman looks over and smiles at the Tian man. Seeing someone travel from so far off, brings joy to her heart. She had spent much of her life traveling dusty roads with those who sought a respite from the mundane existence that trapped so many.
Zetting up zee camp vould be my guess Torrritaka. Her thick Varisian accent rolls off her tongue and her kind dark eyes reach out to the man.
She leads the horses with the skill of a master caravan driver though her flowing dress, soft countenance, and busty frame appear queer in the seat.
As the caravan members begin their conversation, she leans over and whispers to her Tian companion. Zounds like zee men of caravan need to flex manlihood to feel important. No?
When the paladin and cleric describe their need to bring law she responds loud enough for all to hear. Maybe vee should focus on zettting up zee camp before eztablishing zee government.
Upon arrival, Esme gracefully leaps down from the wagon. She walks over to Oleg and courtsies. Zo good to zee yoo Oleg! Esme haz zilk for zale. She turns to Sveltlana and then walks over and hugs her. Zoo look beautiful az alwayz Zveltlana!
Upon hearing Esmeralda's comment about the others, he cannot help but chuckle. He can tell the two are going to get along just fine. Usually, he would tell people to call him Taka, but hearing her say 'Torrritaka', he can't bring himself to correct her.
Svetlana flushes, slightly overwhelmed by the attentions of so many all at once. We will be having roast rabbit with carrot stew and fangberry wine.
She nods at Oleg who begun stabling your horses while muttering under his breath Razza frazzin nobles wit there razzer fazzin poleetics
She staggers under Esmeralda's hug and blushes Why thank you dear, would you help me finish dinner dear? After which she heads inside their home.
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Cato jumps off his horse, keeping the reins in hand.
We appreciate your hospitality. When were bandits last encountered?
Cato follows the rest of the group, looking for various entrances and exits in the fortification.
Addressing Oleg, How long you folks been out here? You by yourself?
I remove the trinkets I just noticed hanging on me, looking around to see if anyone noticed.
Oleg grunts appreciatively for your help with the horses Cato. Last month, they should be showing up again tomorrow morning. They've been coming for the last three months to clear out our storage shed.
The fort has four towers each with a dilapidated catapult on them, the walls appear solid and there is only one entrance, the main gate you all came through.
As he begins to unsaddle and sort your horses he says,
Been out here a few years, *huff, thump* got the rights to the fort b'fore comin here. Things were going fine too, nice and quiet, til the, bandits showed up.
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As we get the horses situated, I continue.
I'm Cato Taldinius, from Taldor. Rest assured our Cleric of Abadar will draw up a fair and beneficial contract. Our group has fighting men, and women. That should alleviate any concerns of the bandits taking more of the store. I'm sure we will set up watch throughout the night and post ourselves come morning. Don't feel like you need to fight with us, although by the looks of ya you can handle yourself in a fight.
I slap him on the shoulder as I join the others, looking for the Lady Sveltlana.