The honor is mine Lord Surtova. Everyone that comes here has a chance to help shape the region. All voices are heard. Perhaps you soon will have a chance to put your talents to use in the wilds.
Glad you aren’t close with the other side of the family, Rillka shivers at the thought. Welcome!
”Thank you.” he says simply and steps back.
At a later time he will come back to the throne room without the group.
When he is able to get a private audience with the council Leopold enters again and gives a short bow and shifts his glace worriedly at Akilina for a moment before he begins his story
”Sir Eisfalke, if I may speak candidly, my connection with my family’s is fraught to say the least. You see, I was born a bastard to Olivia and shortly disowned and thrown out of the family when it was found I had Orcish blood. I learned to fend for myself on the streets of New Stetven. After a few years though a mix of my own statecraft and the goodwill of the populace I was able to reclaim my place in the Surtova family. However, that place came with two conditions, first I must hide my Orcish blood and second I must leave New Stetvan. I then went to Restov where I carved out an alternative identity as an outlet to allow me to exist as a more true version of myself. I named this Identity Viridian, he became a folk hero of sorts in Restov. When I heard of your new kingdom here I realized I might be able to find a place to shape with fewer of the prejudices of New Stetvan and even Restov.”
He pauses a moment to consider before he finishes ”I figured it would be best to tell you the whole story before I asked fully if you would have me here as you are getting something a bit different than a noble.”
Rillka smiles, We measure each person by their deeds, and nobility that comes from the heart, not titles. I mean, Tall Folk here occasionally takes advice from a halfling… so, you’ll fit right in… both of you!
Andreas nods his approval for Leopold to continue. His eyebrow raises a bit at the mention of a second identity.
I thank you for your candor.
I earned my knighthood due to my abilities and not my name. I intend to hold everyone around me to the same standards. Your race has nothing to do with you being a good person or not, you will succeed or fail due to your own choices. You remain honest and you will do just fine here.
After settling in to Stagfell and observing its operation, Albert asks for a private meeting with Sir Eisfalke, as well.
"Sir Eisfalke, I would speak with you regarding your militia. They are capable men, but clearly loyal to this fallen knight, Akiros. While it is clear the man respects you a great deal, should you and his opinions diverge, how certain can you be that they will take your side? Should Brevoy call upon you for aid, would they willingly serve a master to whom they have neve sword allegiance? What if you should fall in battle?
It may tear apart what you've accomplished if they have more power than your successor."
Alber steps in closer, his voice now a whisper. "Create a militia made up of the new settlers. Only a few at first is fine. You can tell the people it's only for defense--it's true enough. Let me drill them, and make sure their loyalty is to you and the Sword Marches, and that they will do as you tell them, even if they judge it in error. This will also demonstrate to your neighbors that you are a genuine ruler, deserving of being taken seriously."
While your views have a logical path to them, you have faltered in one area.
The large knight stands.
Faith.
Andreas motions for the man to follow as he walks out of the room.
Come and walk with me Lord Garess.
They walk in silence for a short period to a practice field. Where some of the men that walk the bandit path with Akiros train.
Those men are loyal to Lord Arkiros this is true. They also are loyal to this place. All of them were at their lowest. Deep inside a dark hole that no one else would understand. They felt that the only other choice was a horrible death. They had the strength to take a chance on a group of nobodies. The will to swallow their pride, and the courage to better themselves.
He points to them as a group.
We offered them a chance. They knew that accepting it would be their death if we failed. They had faith in their comrades and in us that they took that chance.
He turns to Albert.
No, I do not question their allegiance. I have faith in all of them. So much so that I may have an opportunity for them. The next few months will determine if I am correct or not. First, we must continue with stabilizing the region.
I respect your viewpoint and appreciate that you are willing to speak openly with me about your fears. Come join us at our next council meeting. Your opinion brings a different view of things. I wish you to bring along Lord Leopold Sutrova. His experience will also be welcomed.
Andreas nods his approval for Leopold to continue. His eyebrow raises a bit at the mention of a second identity.
I thank you for your candor.I earned my knighthood due to my abilities and not my name. I intend to hold everyone around me to the same standards. Your race has nothing to do with you being a good person or not, you will succeed or fail due to your own choices. You remain honest and you will do just fine here.
After Andreas and Rillka respond Leopold quickly spouts a "Thank you." and then almost as an afterthought adds "Also, I'd appreciate your discretion with this information, if it gets to the wrong people I could end up in a lot of familial trouble."
Rillka smiles an impish grin, For the record, the Council would like to thank Lord Surtova for informing us that the folkhero Viridian of Restov may have travelled to our region. And should this individual be identified, be it known, that they too are to be welcomed.
As the weekly council meeting begins to wrap up, Ser Andreas calls for any final notes and Akiros and Kesten share a look before Kesten raises his hand and says, ”I and Akiros have one last matter to bring before the council. I…have unfinished business in Brevoy. I have recently decided that I must go north and see to my affairs in the north. I hope to return, but this trip will take too long for me to continue my role as the Warden, so I will be stepping down.”
Akiros nods and says, ”I also have felt recently that I have business that I must take care of. What you are doing here is a great thing, but my redemption was to come by helping the Temple. And since I started working here I have barely spent any time at the Temple. Every time I go back, I see where we laid the Unicorn down and part of me feels I am betraying my oath by leaving the Temple when an unknown danger lurks in the forest. So I too must step away from the council and return to where I feel I am most needed.”
Akiros pauses for a moment and then says, ”We have both been thinking about this for…almost two months now. And so we have taken the time to talk to new arrivals who have come with the colonists and we have some suggestions for who might best help fill the roles we are departing. For my part, I think Albert Malek Garess seems like a worthy choice with some good ideas for our defense.”
Kesten nods and says, ”And I have vetted many of our new men and women and think that Leopold Sartova will be a good addition to the council as you continue to grow and improve the kingdom.”
Rillka clearly fights back tears as she gives Akiros a hug.
For what it is worth, I believe you earned your redemption long ago. She pats his holy symbol. I knew one day your road would take you away; but I have enjoyed our travels together. And I will visit soon! She manages a smile, and then she gives Kesten a hug, Safe journeys my friend, and may your journey bring you back safely and soon!
On their words, she nods to Akiros and Kesten, I accept the nominations of Al and Leo.
On their words, she nods to Akiros and Kesten, I accept the nominations of Al and Leo.
I concur with Lady Rillka. Welcome to the council.
Andreas looks over at Kesten and Akiros.
While I am disheartened to see the two of you depart, you always have a home here.
The large knight embraces both men in a brotherly hug.
If you should need anything, we are here for you.
Leopold had worked to reach out to the upper classes of the Burgeoning capital of Sturmulme. Trying to see what the newly elevated aristocracy needed. Meanwhile well in his alternate persona Veridian had functioned as the same guardian of the outcasts that he always had before going to those less fortunate individuals and offering protection, food, guidance and anything else they wished for.
Jacob is not overly interested in the wanted posters. Bounty hunting is not really his style. He does, if he can, track down any stories about the forest drake and Howl of the north wind. He is trying to get an idea of their favored hunting areas.
Albert spends his time in the capitol getting to know the local aristocracy and guards, and sets up his blacksmith shop in Olegstown.
Rillka will be interested in the wanted posters, to keep an ear out for what the people want and need and will lobby for the council to address any of these concerns.
Andreas will keep his ears open for any dangers to the citizens of the kingdom.
Albert is primarily interested in pursuing the Worg, as it threatens expansion into farmland, but he is also concerned about the forest drake.
Rhavi is very conflicted about what to do first.
On one hand she is professional interested in the Alchemist (Troll blood) and the herbalist (Shamble Sap), but also see the need to protect the citizens from the forest drake and worg.
In the end, the safety of others will be more important than her own interests, so either the drake or the worg would be her choice, from what we know from the posters
Rhavi is resting and eating lunch beneath one of the trees as the Tannerson's come quickly up to her. Mrs. Tannerson says, "Good day, Councilwoman...we have a problem. It's Tig...he has been missing for days!"
Rhavi knows that Tig is a young boy in town who often likes to go and explore the areas around the town.
As Rillka is heading through town a local fisher she recognizes as Arven is moving quickly towards her. He is obviously agitated and begins speaking as soon as he comes within ten feet of Rillka. "It ain't right. It ain't right I tell ya. That beast is taking my spot and I need some help!" He stops talking as he plants himself directly in front of Rillka with a look of deep frustration!
As you are relaxing by the river a large man comes up to Leopold. You recognize him as one of the lumberjacks from up the river. As he approaches he nods and says, "Excuse me, I heard that you are new to the council. I had a favor to ask of you and the council. Are you planning on heading out to explore more of the forest soon?"
One day as Jackob is walking through town Lily Teskertin comes up and smiles at Jackob. Jackob has met Lily before and knows that she is a flirtatous lass who lives in Sturmulme. She lightly touches your shoulder and says, "Hey there handsome...do you have a moment to talk?" She gives you a slight smile and then says, "I heard you were among the leaders who travel around exploring the wilderness. Are you planning on heading out to explore again soon?"
You both spend time searching around and asking if anyone has any additional information about the Worg. Unfortunately, it seems that the sign post has all the information that is available currently on the worg and it's location. Around the shrine, several people suggest seeking omens from the gods if you wish to know more about the beast.
Arven, my friend, please take a breath and speak more of this beast that troubles you so, that we may find a solution to your situation! Rillka stops and makes clear her intent to talk with Arven and learn the details of his troubles.
"Certainly Lilly." Jackob smiles. "I suppose I do wander a bit. How may this rootless soul be of use to you?"
Arven sputters for a moment and then takes a deep breath and starts over by saying, "That blasted monster of a turtle took my fishing spot. Anytime I go close he tries to bite my leg off. You have probably heard of him. Fishermen around here have named him Lockjaw. He has taken up the best spot on the eastern side of the Tuskwater and he is probably guzzling up all the good fish as we speak. If you and your friends can go kill him...or chase him off...or whatever...I can make it worth your while!"
Lily giggles and runs her hands along your arm as she continues, "Well, I heard of some Elven ruins in the southern Narlmarshes. Now, I couldn't make my way down there myself...but if a brave hero were to go down there and find a beautiful piece of Elven artwork I would be ever so appreciative. I have always wanted a statuette made by Elven craftsmen. And I could pay or maybe show my appreciation in other ways if a brave hero were to find those ruins and retrieve something for little ol' me."
Arven, please tell me details about the size of the creature and locations this beast has been spotted. Rillka digs through her maps to find the area and gathers all the information from Arven, including how to contact him. I will take this to the Council and we will act as soon as all matters of state allow.We can’t have this beast terrorizing our citizens.
Rillka will bring this situation, impacting the economy and travel to the Council to address.
Jackob smiles "Well I don't know about hero and I do know half the things seen in the Narlmarches are mist and moonshine. But if the ruins are there, and if we find them then I will keep an eye out for a gift suitable for a lady."
Once the conversation is concluded Jackob can be seen seen sitting on a low wall or bench, a gentle steam rising from his body.
Lily smiles and flirts with you a short time longer before skipping off. Before leaving she does say, "I have a cloak that is supposed to protect you. If you bring me a beatiful statuette, the cloak is yours!".
Albert will speak to the priest at the shrine. "The people say I should seek an omen from the gods for the worg prowling the Kamelands. Have any pilgrims mentioned signs of the creature?"
"I don't know that we have plans to delve to deep currently." Leopold starts "May I ask why, you may be able to change our plans."
A moment later he adds "Also, with whom do I have the pleasure of speaking" being unaccustomed to not knowing everyone.
Andreas takes heed of the advice and seeks out Father Khavken. The knight picks a day where he knows the High Priest is out at the Temple of the Elk. He rides for the temple and comes into the temple proper. He proceeds to find the man going about his duties and bids him a warm greeting.
Father Khavken, I wish to talk to you about something that is of concern to me and others as well. When you have time, I wish to walk with you around the area to see how the progress is going.
As they walk the temple grounds, Andreas brings up the concerns of the populace.
There is talk of a Worg that hunts the Kamelands. He is known as Howls-of-the-North-Wind, and he does not care if his prey is bandit or hunter. With the new arrivals coming into our territory, there is concern for the safety of the populace. Do you have any knowledge or advice on this matter, anything would be appreciated.
Albert heads to the new shrine of Pharasma to seek guidance about the Worg. The priest, a large man named Thaddeus, listens to Albert's question and then says, "I am afraid I have not heard anything of yet. This worg's victims have not found their way to my Shrine yet, although we can only hope their souls have found their way to Pharasma for her final judgement. But any such monsters must be taken with great seriousness. Sometimes, those who die in such terrible circumstances do not find their way properly into the afterlife. And then such matters can quickly grow out of hand! I will pray to Pharasma to watch over any such lost souls." The priest sounds very concerned at the idea that souls may linger in anger or grief instead of moving on.
Jhod shows you around the area that they are clearing for the Temple. When you ask about the Worg he gets a particularly pained expression and says. "My...experience of Worgs is not good. If such a beast is around it must be slain quickly as people will die...The Kamelands are not near here, so there is little aid I can offer of the magical variety that would last long enough to be of any aid. But from past experience...you must deal with this quickly before it grows out of hand."
Rillka will then report the giant turtle disrupting fishing and navigation to the rest of the Council.
Albert continues his conversation with Thaddeus. I, too, share your concern for the souls of this worg's victims. If you hear anything from pilgrims to the shrine, or can divine anything when you commune with the Gray Lady, please let me know. It's important to me that these lands are safe for settlers."
Unfortunately, no one seems too interested in talking to you at this time.
Rillka is a popular lady about town and many people share rumors with her.
She hears that a hag known as the Swamp Witch lives in a marsh on the northwestern shore of the Tuskwater. She consorts with demons and kidnaps children to boil in her magical pot.
A green dragon lives in the Narlmarshes and eats anyone who crosses it's path.
A brutish hill giant has been seen wandering the Kamelands. Give him a wide berth (or a stiff drink) and he will leave you alone.
A tribe of violent lizardfolk led by a lizard king who talks to the spirits of his dead ancestors dwells deep in the southern swamps.
Andreas lets his tone calm and become softer.
Father Khavken, you seem ill at ease. Is there something wrong? We are here to help if you should need of it. The repairs to the temple are coming along nicely, if something or someone is threatening it...I beseech thee to speak of it openly. There are no repercussions for such words. I want this place and the region surrounding it to be safe for all of Erastil's followers to flurish.
Wandering the town as is his wont Jackob bend an hand and ear where he can.
Jackob hears that there is an old tower on the island of Candlemere where the walls between this world and some other has worn thin and is now guarded by a dangerous monster.
"The temple area is quite secure and safe. Worgs are just very dangerous creatures." the priest says as you finish your tour of the area.
Andreas looks to the priest with concern.
Worg are very dangerous, this true.
Sir Andreas is not sure why, but talk of a worg has obviously upset the priest deeply. He shows no willingness to discuss whatever tale he has of worgs. Unfortunately, Sir Andreas is unable to decipher what emotion has stricken the priest. It could be anything from fear, anger, grief, embarrassment or perhaps some strange mix of emotions.
Tig is priority one as soon as Rhavi spills the beans. After all Tig might still be alive. We would need info on when and were they were last seen. Are they known to stay out overnight. How wilderness savvy are they. Etc. This might call for pulling a posse together and starting a larger search.
Or at least setting the posse/militia to do a sweep near the town while we try to track them further afield.
Andreas spends his day at temple taking in all he sees and enjoying his time with Father Kavken.
Riding back home, he requests the presence of his council.
I took some time to visit the temple about a rumor of Worgs. I have come to the conclusion that Father Kavken is scared...of what specifically, I am not certain. The one thing I am certain of is that he is afraid of the worgs for some reason. It is something we need to look into at some point.
What news has anyone else to share?
"I spoke with Thaddeus, the priest of Pharasma, and he shares Father Kavken's fear of the worg, as the victims of such creatures can have trouble finding their way to the Boneyard. That being said, I agree with Jackob that we should prioritize the search for Tig."
"Sounds like you two have been busy. I found out about what may be an elven ruin that may be in the southern Narlmarches. Not a great deal to go on I know but worth keeping as eye out if we head that way." Jackop leans back in his chair.
"Apparently it was my day for ruins."
"I also caught a hunter telling her friends about an old tower on an island in the Candlemere to the south of the Tuskwater. Lots of ghost stories and folks saying the walls between the worlds are thin there." "Normally this would just be moonshine but the tentacle thing and the missing horn are drawing an ugly picture."
Andreas listens to all the rumors.
So if I am to understand all this talk... we have a lot of new areas that are dangerous to our people. A missing child, the Island of Candlemere, Old Crackjaw, the Worg Howls-of-the-North-Wind, a Hodag, Elven Ruins, a swamp witch, a Green Dragon, a Hill Giant, and a tribe of violent lizardfolk led by a lizard king who talks to his dead ancestors.
He lets out a sign.
I miss the days of orc raiding parties and bandits.
I feel that the threat to one of our people requires our attention first and foremost. Not that all of these rumors could potentially be dangerous to the populace, but this child is in immediate danger. His safety should be our first priority.
Rillka would provide all the details she has learned along with an annotated map, including anything that the rest of the group shared.
Albert proposes initially following the river south along the greenbelt.
Andreas looks at their maps with appreciation. The details that Lady Rillka has put into them shows.
I am not sure how this Tig got to wherever he is, but we have to travel a distance in order to cross any of the rivers. This being just to search all the areas he may be.
He changes his position to get a better look at the maps.
We could ride along the river for the Tatzlwyrm's Den and cross there. We come back down on the other side of the Skunk all the way to the Tuskwater. Follow it all the way to the Murque and repeat the process.