Marcus Perception
Marcus looks to his companion, who immediately breaks off and rides back to the trade post. "Slow," Marcus says to you. "Jhod and Kesten are keeping," he pauses and narrows his eyes at the bandits, apparently having some manner of difficulty accepting the change instantaneously, "the women folk safe within. I will ride with you," it does not sound like a request.
Marcus escorts your party to the trade post, where Kesten stands on the battlements, and Jhod, flanked by Matis as before stands near the entrance. Matis brightens with a smile to see his former brethren come through the gates on their own power. His mirth, it seems, is subdued by the presence of Jhod.
"Welcome, brothers," Jhod greets. "What news from the south? I see you've brought a number of new... conscripts?" he pauses. "I am Jhod, servant of the Good Lord Erastil," he introduces himself.
Ali hails Jhod with a wave. "Things are going well. We achieved what we sought; the bandits at the ford have been neutralised. These fellows have seen t' light and are here to help atone for their misdeeds. How have things been with you?" She asks genuinely curious.
Slowly, Ali bings her horse closer.
"Quiet enough, save for the occasional outburst," Jhod answers, flicking a glance at Kesten, who is standing at an aggressive parade rest on the battlements, glaring down at the large group of bandits filing in behind you. Seeing very little room for their mounts, they dismount and let their horses graze on the spring grass.
"Aye, Father, quiet enough with two of these dogs trained to heel," Kesten calls down from above. "How many more animals d'ya mean to trot through these doors? I was not sent to run a kennel!"
Ali flushes with anger. "These are Men, not dogs. How dare you say that. I thought ye were a military man, so ye should know how t' deal with conscripts." she says loudly getting down off the horse and moving towards the wall.
"We are trying to give these men a second chance to do sumthing with their lives. Something better than robbing and scrounging. That's what here is about... second chances."
Tam sighs and just makes his way past the group not really caring what the others decided he was just glad to be back in a semi place of civilization, if it even qualified for so much as that. No pubs, no gambling dens, no bustling streets, towering buildings, no sounds of luaghter and joy just anger and more and more strife. If it's not one thing it's another. he thinks as he overhears Ali's and Kesten's argument.
Strangely Tam finds himself looking around to spot Kayla..almost as if he hoped she'd be waiting to greet him like...What like a returning conqueror coming home to his wife. She's way out of my league I mean she probably has her eyes on one of these guards some man not a boy like me . A cursed boy with dreams of shadows and death at that. He thinks with a shudder as his mood turns bleak and tears his searching eyes away and dejectedly makes his way to the stable to put up with multicolored pony away.
Diplomacy:
"Come now, Kesten. What reason would a man like you come out here for if not to be free of the pecking orders of Brevoy? Your name is Garess, yet you sit here watching over a trading post and a band of officials making a map. Lighten up, and learn to see that even though not all are equal, all at least have potential, and given guidance, can achieve something of merit in life." he offers, still in the diplomatic corner "In fact, I would offer the first task right now: The old fort is getting a tad narrow for all the people now living there, and we could use some new structures around here. With Father Kavken being a priest of Erastil, I assume he is versed in rural trades such as carpentry, and could have these men build something. I believe offering to work together to build a community is among the best ways to welcome someone, in the eyes of Old Deadeye, no?"
Stanis looks to the former bandits "And before you ask, no I am not sending you deep into the fey-riddled forest to collect wood. The less forested outskirts south of here will do fine." he turns to Jhod "Make sure to take acorns and nuts, and plant new trees in the field where you take them, so we don't inadvertently earn new enemies in the woods. Not that I think you would not have done this anyway, being a priest of the god of the hunt."
At Stannis words Ali finds herself calming down, the burning sensation in her chest abates and ahe tension, she didn't realise she felt, in her shoulders slackens. 'What came over me? I don't usually get angry like that, it's normally just fear.'
"Well said Ser Stannis, I should introduce our new companions. This is Jess and his brother Hans; Masters' Vlade and Lem. It is a good idea that. Trying t' put up a few more buildings, tho' we hafta see if 'tis alright with Sir Oleg." Ali says walking slowly towards Kestens voice.
13 Pharast, Continued
"Bah, acorns and seeds! For cold blooded murderers?!" Kesten cries. "One builds community with persons of like interests. You'd build one around thieves and rapists," Kesten swears and spits on the ground. "Sooner put these animals in aprons and have 'em serve my-" he mutters as he walks away.
Father Jhod follows Kesten's exit with his eyes, as do the former bandits and his guard, and after a moment of hesitation, James, sparing each of you a leering grin before he joins his lover. The two can be seen speaking, but unless one comes closer to listen, they cannot easily be eavesdropped upon. Kesten's agitation appears to lessen somewhat, and the pair move to the catwalk after a time.
"It takes far more than words to lead a simple man to water," Jhod says apologetically, approaching Stanis. "It may be as you say, Banker, but I've no great skill at carpentry, between myself, Marcus and Oleg we may put together a standing structure," he shakes his head woefully, "but that would be two men that could be serving this post better elsewise."
As if on cue, Oleg steps towards the group, adjusting a pair of suspenders over his shoulders. "Aye. Communion be all well and good, but the number of mouths here is soon to outnumber the regular trappers, and the source of food. Kayla is already beginning to chomp at the bit with her water trick, and we can count it a blessing Matis seems to think on her like his own kin. My wife's a fair cook, but for these odd," he gestures to the group and scratches the back of his neck, then grimaces. "Like as not, we'll be lookin' to hire on some regulars, and thems from Brevoy."
At Kestens vitriollic words Ali's heckles rise, she visually shakes her head but keeps her mouth closed. 'If only he could see as i do, a mans heart maybe changed by actions and words. Thus so may his heart change too, we will make these men useful productive aspects of the community."
Letting Kesten move away as his conscience dictates, Ali makes no attempt to listen to the private words. "Yes, to make this post self-sufficient, it will be hard for a time." Ali says as Jhod and Oleg approach.
"You have a well? I kin help fer now with it too, gis us a chance to talk to Kayla." Ali queries. 'Why did he build on this plain, stupid always get a plentiful water supply thats what father used to say.' "There is plentiful flat-land, the men can grow crops. We have only lost a season, the goddess provides, and if we can get a few oxen from Brevoy they can till the area."
"A chicken coop will provide eggs, we bring boar meat and occassional expeditions can provide more sustanance. Yes, times may be lean at the moment but we will ensure that all will be bountious as possible eventually."
"As t' fore means of contacting the Lords for supplies, I'll leave tha' to Sir Stannis. 'e has the words of it and t' rank."
Ali leans against a pallisade, "So what does thee think about us asking for a couple of lads from your homeland? To come and give us an hand with trying to get this a bit better stocked. All we need is a couple of people who are grand at putting up buildings and that. And a bit more live-stock, a couple of oxen, some chickens, maybe a goat to two t' keep Kayla's company?" Ali asks scanning around at the others hopefully.
Her voice hopeful "If Sir Stannis can get off a couple of letters and with a bit of elbow grease we can all get this place working right good for the new additions. Then we explore a bit to the grasslands to t' South, maybe find some other good farms near t' wat-er?"
Stanis gives Kesten a sour glare at his derisive comments "By the same logic, if I allow mercenaries to build a community, it will be all about weapons, whores and ale, with no room for studies nor production?" he dismisses "Like situation more than like minded. I think I can safely say that very few here ARE like minded. Without it having to be an obvious comment on the gorge that spans the difference between intellectual prowess and schooling, but it certainly serves as one." he scorns and turns to Jhod and Ali.
"I will write Brevoy for additional workers and funds in order to facilitate the success of our mandate, as well as notices to Nivakta and Varnhold, that we are receiving those who are skilled, and in need of employment. Meanwhile, we will have those trained in combat aiding trappers and hunters, to learn such trades, and protect them from the dangers of the land." he turns his attention to Jhod "As hunting and trapping are the domains of Old Deadeye, I would like for you to offer them blessings when going out, and provide advice and counsel. These men might well find some solace in the faith that will provide them with labor and a new life."
Stanis turns to Ali and offers a smile "While your spirit and demeanor is hard to quantify in terms of value, there is no question of their value. Your effort to make everyone feel welcome is, to use an Erastil saying, the water that nourishes the tree so it may bear fruits. I think we should make you the face of our new community, as I believe it is easier to approach and speak with you than any other of us."
Ali listens to Stannis words intently, inwardly smiling to herself. 'Perhaps we can truly help these people and make sure that they can not just survive but thrive. I am glad Sir Stannis will get word for help.'
"Your management is grand, Sir Stannis. Together we's can create a competant community. Faith is an important hope for t' spirit." Ali states with a bashful smile.
As Stannis compliments Ali; she starts to turn and incline her head bashfully, but then she stops straightening it and returning the look. 'Nay, point being too shy and modest. That would be counter-productive.' "Thank you, for ye kind words Sir. I will make myself available to speak t' all that wish it. Your confidence will be served well." her voice starting off slightly shakey then assuming a more reasonant tone.
"I will make myself available," Jhod promises and gives a nod, "but I should think collectively that their wills will not bend to me easily."
Jhod looks to the assembly of bandits and sighs softly, then looks to Ali. "You might wish to ask the Good Wife and Sister Kayla what they lack. The more work I have to offer them, the better."
Ali nods her head, "Yes, I will talk to the woman. Make sure that they have everything they need." 'And keep out of the sight of the refoeming men. Ma used to say that a hint of leg does funny things to a mans brain.'
"Aye this will be a tricky act t' balance the emotions 'til, things settle down. Of course a good bit o' male cameraderie could help and will enforced soberiety." Ali remarks.
Turning and moving surely as one who has now learnt the layout of the post by feel Ali sets off to find the women. "If anyones want ta join us, feel free."
Jhod smiles and lays a firm hand on Ali's shoulder before she exits. "There's a good lass. I believe the Good Wife Olegton busied herself making a number of pies in your absence. You might ask after them."
When Ali has gone, Jhod's features harden again, and he looks between Stanis and the group of bandits. "If we mean to build here, we'll need to speak with the master of this post. First, though, we should employ these men taking as accurate a survey of the lumber here as possible. Right then," he says, shoring himself up. "What number of you know the difference between an oak and a maple on sight?"
There is some grumbling but the general consensus is that none in the group are competent lumberjacks. Jhod gives a nod. "Well then, it appears I've been laid up here long enough. Come then, lads. The Good Wife makes a decent meal. Can't say as there'll be much to eat, but some will be warm. Tomorrow morning we depart for the wood."
Ali walks off to the kitchen area, as she approaches her senses are met by the divine wall of smell. Ali smiles remembering the acorn pies her mother used to make. She approaches the kitchen and knocks upon the door frame.
"Kayla, Svetlana; that smells divine. I heard you were baking pies but was unprepared for the scent of ye craft. What sort of pies ye making? Berries, apple, turnip or meat?" the last sort of whispered in a reverential awe. Her face planly anticipatory.
"So, how's I help?" Ali states rolling the sleeves of her grey shift up.
Ali
.
Svetlana Leveton is currently up to her lightly floured elbows in what appears to be a small mountain of dough when you arrive. There is a open pot of what appears to be butter set beside her, and you can see that she is working more into the dough. Clearly she is making some manner of pastry.
"Good on you, Miss," she sighs, continuing to work on her dough. "With so many mouths, we've breached the winter stores early. My husband will be bringing the apples directly," she says.
Almost on cue, Oleg shoulders through the door with large crate with rope handles, across which lays a crowbar. He sets the crate down on a stool which groans perilously beneath the weight, and then is silent. The shriek of several loosening nails later, you are treated to the smell of fresh apples. Oleg pulls one from the trove, bites into it and hums happily as he chews.
"My wife wanted to make these into preserves," he says and laughs. "Fat lot jam would do to fill the bellies of men, hmm?" he jests and tosses you an apple. "Stuck 'em in the storehouse over winter. Roof's never been right there, just as well these ain't frost bit!"
"That'll be enough from you," Svetlana says, rolling her eyes as she puts her back into the effort to roll the pastry. "Go on and join the other fine examples of masculinity, my husband, leave us faint women folk our work."
Ali smiles at the affection clear between the pair, wishing that someday maybe she too could find someone. She puts this away from her thoughts, lest she become depressed.
The warm kitchen felt glorious to the thin girl, moving over to the heavy wooden table she finds a sharp knife. "Miss Svetlana, I prepare the apples if that is alright."
Ali rubs water from a jugs over her hands, then moves over to the crate removing a dozen apples. Carefully she starts peeling and segmenting them with her knife. The unsighted hands working in someways more efficiently with the skin removal, because of her enhanced sense of touch. "So, I hope that these people don't bite too deeply into your stores. Soon though, we should hopefully be able to make this place sustainable and posperous. I know that they are strangers, maybe even a bit uncouth. But we can make this place safe and secure, a home."
Ali puts the segments into a bowl, the remains she pushes into a neat pile. "You have gone through hardships, as have all in the area. The lean winters, held in by snow. Sometimes we all had to go without, but we will make this better. We just need somebody to organise the lands, so that all may prosper. The peels, where should I put them? For your sisters goat?" She asks softly.
"Have you always lived around these parts?" Ali asks gently, hoping that the woman can share some of her experiences.
Stanis retires to his little corner where he writes, on a stool next to a crate propped against the wall inside the bunk-room. "Will be hard to not prioritize the construction of a proper office. But first people need proper roofs over their heads. Would still be nice to have an actual chair at least, with some back-support."
Diplomacy:
He spends the next hour writing up a complete budget for the Swordlords to cover, and tries to formulate the letter so that it conveys the supplies as necessary and purposeful, facilitated in the legal wording of the mandate, with a projected return for the investment as a potential expansion into new land, having easily grasped the simple political purpose the band REALLY has been sent here for. "If there is a redeeming factor in having warriors as leaders, it would be the ability to give priority to security measures and obtaining strength for a relatively cheap price. Sometimes I feel truly blessed in being born in Rostland, where uselessness is frowned upon even among nobles." he stops and catches himself "Guess being stuck out in the sticks allows me to better appreciate the ways of Erastil." he chuckles and continues writing.
- Hands proficient in carpentry, farming, masonry and smithing (last two preferably dwarven ones, as they tend to be lawful and have good work ethics).
- Materials for construction (tools primarily), heavy draft horses to pull lumber, digging tools to make a well (not sane to rely on divine characters being able to create water 24/7).
- One or more skilled guides and foresters that can guide and protect the people collecting lumber.
- A master brewer to keep the warrior folk happy.
- A smart teacher/scholar to teach the bandits some civilized skills, like reading/writing, basis of trades etc, as well as relieve my scribe duties, keep books, and perchance even serve as my apprentice.
- Supplies to supplement the stocks, and a steady flow of it.
Well satisfied with the letter, he signs it and casts Arcane Mark to authenticate it, and gives a groan of pain as his back gives a jolt of complaint about sleeping in the fields and working on a stool.
As you assist Svetlana in seasoning the apples and assembling the pie she relates her marriage to Oleg, which you may be surprised to learn was, at its start, more of a beneficial arrangement than a marriage. She and Kayla know the trade of herbs, which while not wildly successful in Restov was pulling in more money than the sisters could really manage on their own, and brought the sort of negative attention that a man she names Happs (and frowns and makes the swirling sign of Pharasma when she speaks of him) was willing to visit on a small shop. Oleg lent a sort of legitimacy and comfort for the ladies to practice in peace while he dealt with the rougher customers, but became increasingly wary of the swing of politics in Brevoy, and wished to escape before taxes were levied further and it was not simply rogue law enforcement they had to pay to continue to exist but the laws themselves. It has been a rough period of adjustment for the pair, but Svetlana says and as you have noted, Svetlana and Oleg have come love each other, as this whole situation for the bandits has proven his genuine care for her.
You notice, however, that she rarely mentions her sister or what Kayla's stake in this family really is, lending to the impression that she is, at this time, a rogue element.
All
You go about completing your various tasks in the course of the day, and are roused and brought together by the ringing of the dinner bell. Ali and Svetlana have put out as great a spread as two women might for over a dozen men on short notice, a hearty stew with more root vegetables than meat and several fresh baked hearty apple pies. Despite having spent most of the day in Kesten's company, James's sullen attitude is none improved, and he announces that he wishes to return to Restov, and his brothers and sisters in the temple. Jhod's gives a nod and Oleg's hand slides across his wife's on the table, his gruff expression indicating that he is more than a little pleased with this development. The bandits Vlad and Hans lift their heads and narrow their eyes, actually slowing the prodigious speed of their intake to take notice of the general shift in power, then bend their heads to the food again.
Ali listens to Svetlana's story enraptured, a real life love story, with a happy ending. She makes a few comments as appropriate and enjoys the act of baking, creating something for the good of everyone. Kayla and Svetlana, she presumes are acting like siblings having none of her own and observed few other than the companions.
Tam goes about the day mostly lazing about not doing much work except to help out Kayla whenever he can. His discussion with her had never left his thoughts but he tries to put it in the back of his mind at least so he can concentrate. During the night he tries to entice the guards and their new "recruits" in games of dice and knife throwing never trying to win too much. Never good to take all their money
Ali thinks for a few seconds her visage thoughful and innocent; "Well I did learn that ye friend Laudislaw, ye know the banker, didst go into the woods wit' me Pa and a scout lass. The were travelling into the woods ta the West." Ali says her words coming out in a jumble.
"Well we could go and find them , or we could just move to the South and explore the lands there? Or we could try to better this place and ta wait 'ere. Although the last is a bad idea."
Ali continues; "So yeah, we needs a scout. I cannot perform t' role, especially when I can nah see me hand before me face. Sir Stannis you have to concentrate on your mapping. Mordecai, as a protector and with your armour you are not a good choice. So how about if I talk to Oleg, see if he knows anyone in these parts that can help us?"
Ali leaves the table from where they are eating and goes over to Oleg. "Shock, isn't it? James leaving! and with that our best scout. I don't suppose you know of anyone who could do that. One of the new men has a little bit of wood-lore, but I fear it ain't enough. Jhod has to stay 'ere with ye to keep the men in line and get your place a bit better." Ali's words are sympathetic and warm.
"So do ye know of any Wood-crafters or scouts. Ye said me Pa went West t' woods, know when he or the lass will return? Or is there any others ye know of?"
Mordecai starts midmeal, seated with the bandits to give them a sense of acceptance and comradery and he looks up at James when he announces his leaving to return to Restov. He wishes the man luck on his travels, surprised to find himself a bit reluctant to part ways with James. The man may have had his oddities and faults but he was a good man to fight alongside with. After James leaves, Mordecai returns to his food, chuckling slightly at how the bandits chow down on the meal. It reminded him of the good old days under Captain Eidan as a mercenary yet again, every man and woman eating as fast as possible before they had to go out again on another assignment.
He looks over each of the bandits, gauging their moods and remembering their sparse training sessions. Each of them was decent with the blade they had been given but swordmasters they would never be. Still, it was nice to have some fellow swordsmen to talk and train with. It gave him a sense of belonging in this wild country, besides wanting to look after his brother, but Tam was a grown man now and had his own things to do. Mordecai looked forwards to training and sparring with his "recruits" actually, as well as conversing with Ali, Stanis and the others manning the fort. He raises his cup at Svetlana in a toast of appreciation for the fine meal, then goes back to it with a passion.
Oleg gives a nod. "Nay, lass. Trappers enough in the wood, how's we have meat at all to flavor our stews these days," he almost growls and then sighs and shakes his head. "As for reliable scouts, any that have the inclination typically bend their head to thems that can pay 'em for the skill, if you get what I be sayin'. Only I know that ain't truck with that scum went away with your man."
An interview of the bandits reveals that Vlade and Lem have the talent to be scouts, but a gentle shake of Jhod's head gives you the idea that he would sooner see the men rehabilitated in a more... structured fashion. It is true that responsibility shapes a man, but trapping and logging have fewer incidences of monster killing than full time adventuring.
The sun dips beneath the horizon and what little warmth it was giving the day almost immediately ends. Braziers installed atop the battlements were lighted well in advance of this development, and provide a sort of soft illumination over the majority of the fortress. James retires early, and you see a grumbling Kesten speak with one of his officers before he too retires to his cramped camp beside the stables. The officer and Devlin pace the walkways, stopping occasionally to speak to Hans and Vlade, who have elected to take the first watch. A former bandit himself, Devlin seems to have a much more delicate hand with Hans than Kesten's mercenary, but the tension is not so much that it gives you cause for concern. Still, there is the impression that the officer is watching Vlade as much as he is the horizon.
Nearing the end of the first watch, you hear a report from the battlements.
"Rider, to the northwest!" Devlin cries, and readies his bow.
It had been a long and emotional day for Ali, she was still mulling over James decision to leave. She has not really had enough friends that she can afford to lose one. James had helped her, she trusted his council and despite him scouting ahead and his opinions of justice, she felt the strength of his personality.
Earlier Ali speaks to Stannis about her worries over the food supplies, Oleg had already broken into the winter stores. She doesn't want everyone to starve, and it would do the morale of the 'reformed' men no good. Rationing or a stock-take of supllies may be needed.
Though used to the hard work of a kitchen, the meal did drag for Ali her appetite never being that great. The gusto the men took as they consumed the food gave her ambivalent feelings. 'Glad they like it our work paid off. Would be nice if they savoured it though. Could we have made any old crap and they would have ate it?'
Ali tells the others of Olegs words, the lack of scouts. Then she goes over to Svetlana and makes sure that she will have help, or someone else entirely clean the dishes; Ali goes to retire for the night.
Laying on her bunk, Ali is unused to the comfort. Her old hut, now a charred wreck, only had one small bed. That in the good times of her youth, her mother and step-father squeezed into. But in the latter years before her mothers death, Byron slept in the barn. Ali always slept by the hearth, the warmth and smell comforting her to sleep. Even after her step-father left she stayed in her spot.
Now on the bunk in her slip, though washed it still had a coarse and grey texture. Her mind raced, this was an important time in her life. Her actions could affect many lives, a shock from her previous solitary existance. A call went up, "Rider, to the Northwest!"
Quickly Ali rolled out of the too soft bed. Smoothed down the shift, it only came to just above the knees. Moving from the bed area she grabs her dark cloak from the hook and pulls it about herself tightly. Slicking back her hair and pulling her tail tight she moves towards the gate and the call.
Bare feet used to walking and the chill pad across the courtyard as she ascends to beside Devlin. "So what do you see Sirs?" she asks politely; holding her cloak tight to her.
Ali Disguise
Mordecai Perception
I doubt anyone but Stanis could see through your disguise. Will get back to you when others have posted their reactions rather than continuing on with just one person.
Tam frowns worried over their group has dwindled down by one with the leaving of James, he had been a friendly man at least, if a bit odd in his choice of companionship....
Tam shrugs and wiles his time around practicing throwing his knives, perhaps trying to interest the men guards and turned bandits alike into some friendlty gambling. When the call goes out for a rider Tam rushes out wondering if James had decided to come back.
"Think you it James coming back?" He asks Ali seeing her already up and about.
Sensing Tams' approach she turns towards him pulling her cloak tight against the slightly chill air. "Maybe, it would be nice if he had returned. However, I am happy with having the friends I have." she gives the hansome young man a little smile.
"I guess we will have to wait and see, though I'll need your eyes for that." she winks with a milky eye; as her step-father had taught her for mild jests.
Ali keeping her head facing forward, whispers quietly to Tam hoping that the sounds are muted by the night air. "Did I hear that you talking to Kayla earlier? How's it going?" She tries to keep the matter succinct and private as they wait for the rider to cross the plains.
Ali turns to Devlin; "Good eyes, Devlin. Well spotted." She turns to face the dark all her senses open whether to Tams' reponse or the approaching rider.
Mordecai sprints up onto the wall,sword at his hip and long hair disheveled as he eyes the riders approaching and he rubs at his stubble, glancing over at Tam and Ali who are already there. "What do you suppose they are doing here? They couldn't be more reinforcements for the Trading Post could they? At this distance I can't tell if its a man or woman..." He shrugs and glances around for Garres, then raises his arm high and waves a greeting to the rider, signaling him or her that they had seen them coming.
Stanis heads out at the news of riders, hoping for good news, but prepared to take part in the defense if not. "Does the rider carry a coat of arms or colors implying where it might be coming from?" Stanis shouts up to the lookout as he starts his ascend up the ladder.
Ali turns her head to Stannis down below and says with a light-hearted smile; "Thee's got better eyes than I. Seriously Devlin, Mord, Tam; any of thee got any clues."
Ali leans upon the battlements, enjoying the cool night breeze across her face.
Perception
Err, maybe. Hu5tru was deciding in the new year.