Lord Bronin, The Baron of Syradel, cleans up from his sparring session. Taking the warm bath offered by his host Baron Drelev.
That is when his most trusted advisor - Professor Clyborn - levitates back into the room.
Speaking to Ambassador Tremel, he asks him.
"Please check to see if we are being spied upon. "
Getting an "All Clear" , he turns to The Professor and says,
"So, how screwed are we?"
and proceeds to button up his dress boots as he dons his best in clothes and armor for the anticipated dinner.
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"No updates Professor? You were gone a very long time. "
He turns to Sir Gregory and his Diplomat- what angle do you think we should approach tonight's dinner? Obviously we want to speak truth, but will they respond best to strength, to empathy, to mutually benefiting trade?
What do we say about their worship of Kor?
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"With the amount of barbarians here in town I'll be willing to bet they are being intimidated by them already. We have a limited force here to get us out of trouble if needed. If it were up to me I'd say we get out while the gettings good and be honest and tell them we don't feel safe and we need to meet in a more neutral place."
Gregory sits back and rubs his chin
"That witch has been at least through here also. What if she has set up a coven here like she did back home. There is no telling how many women she could have tricked with her ways and are on her side. We should have done our research before we came here."
The Professor gives a detailed report of happenings in New Atalan...
Satinder Morne, once one of Baron Drelev's trusted advisors and a member of his Council of Lords, reveals that the Council has not met in two months, and the Baron has ignored all requests for a meeting. She has asked the Professor to seek out Terrion Numesti, who lives in the keep and serves as Gloamweald’s Treasurer.
Tremal offers another small bit of insight, which may or may not be important. Satinder told the Professor that she serves as Gloamweald's Magister, but he knows that Imeckus Stroon has officially held that position for some time. He believes that Satinder's true role in Drelev's Kingdom is as his Spymaster.
”So...” Tremal ventures with a raised eyebrow. ”Should we try to find Terrion Numesti like Satinder suggests?”
Yes, We need to find Terrion.
He speaks further, with a tone of resolution.
Gentlemen, We are in danger here. It is obvious that the barbarians of Armag Twice-Born have pushed their influence here. The Baron Drelev may or may not be an ally or at least neutral.
He takes a pause.
So, if you feel the need to leave. To return home, I will understand. It may actually be best for Sir Gregory- or anyone that wants to - to return home. The Counsel will need to be fully staffed, should things go terribly wrong here.
On my end, as Lord of the Land, I need to be a stern and unrelenting face of the nation. My place is here - finding out more and being in harms way.
Lord Bronin takes time to get an update on who (if not everyone) stays with him and then instructs people to prepare for dinner. Dinner will be the perfect time and place to see all the "Who's Who" of Gloamwheal. Terrion Numesti will certainly be one of those. If he's not, then a lot more snooping around will have to happen.
Lord Bronin preps his dinner best. Goes to the door and occassionally asks "when is dinner?" .
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On the advice of Baron Bronin Clyburn and Gregory pack their belongings and make to return to Syradel. As the Lord’s Ambassador Tremal stays to keep up appearances.
About an hour later a servant arrives to escort Bronin and Tremal to dinner. The two are led across the inner courtyard to the main keep of Fort Drelev, then up a flight of stairs to a modest hall guarded by a half dozen men at arms. There they are met by Baron Hannis Drelev and a handful of his councilors.
Lord Hannis Drelev is a man in his mid 30’s, his face ruggedly handsome with an old scar that stops just short of his right eye. The son of a merchant, Drelev spent his youth as an officer in the Kor Legion. His family was not wealthy, but his military service and natural charisma earned him the hand of Lady Pavetta, a member of a wealthy merchant house of Marascar that saw in Drelev the potential to win a charter from the Aer Lord Talteslos.
”Well met, Baron Dohari, I am Baron Hannis Drelev.” The man offers a stiff bow and makes brief introductions. ”My wife, Lady Pavetta, her brother, Magister Imeckus Stroon, and my personal councilor, Quitessa Maray.”
One man, however, stands slightly apart, and is introduced last. ”This is Lew Dargail, Ambassador of Armag Twice-born of the Wildland Coast.”
Tall and handsome with braided blonde hair, Lew offers an easy smile and bows. ”Well met, Baron.”
It is an honor to formally meet all of you. I recall seeing a few of your faces as we were all vying for the charters that were claimed.
I am also exceedingly lucky as I get an opportunity to initiate diplomatic relationships with two neighbors at this dinner. Talk about efficiency.
Looking around, he gives a nod to Lady Pavetta. Roofmistress. Thank you for allowing me find sanctuary and shade. Are there any rules or customs that I should know about?
And that will probably be the last that he directly acknowledges or honors Lady Pavetta . All questions- even that would normally be directed to Lady Pavetta will instead be directed to her husband. His cheavanism will certainly come into play as he doesn't even acknowledge Quitessa the "Personal Councilor".
With that said, the three major players in this room are all men . He exchanges a few stories with the Magister of the challenges that Professor has encountered, just to see if they are actually doing the same "type of job" and that he is indeed the magister.
Aided by a few offhand comments from Tremal, Bronin’s practice at diplomacy seems to have initially paid off and no one seems offended by his first impression.
Well, except Lady Pavetta, but as a secondary member of Baron Drelev’s council, and a woman, he doesn’t really consider her anyone of real note.
”I had heard the Baron of the Greenbelt was Ascari.” She sniffs as if smelling something unpleasant. ”But you appear to be only half-blooded, so I suppose you aren’t half-bad.”
Baron Drelev looks uneasy at the exchange, and tries to intercede. ”My wife is the daughter of a trade prince. A sharp tongue can produce more results than a whip, she has told me. It is a trait that serves her family well in the slave trade. If our lands were to begin trading or sharing aid she would be my negotiator.”
Pavetta presents a thin lipped, snake-like smile.
serves her family well in the slave trade.
Bronin continues to smile. But behind that smile he is not very happy. He knows he is getting poked and prodded for a reaction by Lady Pavetta.
Then he thinks, that highborn Pavetta is just chronically angry because her husband sticks his dick in “ his personal assistant – Quintessa” instead of her on a regular basis. That perspective helps him even out his demeanor.He is almost ready to gloss over the comments made. Almost.
Speaking directly to – and only to Baron Drelev
The Greenbelt does look forward to possible trade deals and securing mutually beneficial tradepathways. Don’t forget that there are traders from your old country of Kor that want safe passage down the river Ethrai. Whether they stop in DrakesHaven or Gloamweald – or both.
Then he puts in his semi-jab.
Speaking of trade – there’s one type of trade that isn’t allowed in The Greenbelt. A few years ago – actually…..less than a day AFTER I earned this MirrorBlade and the charter… Slavers kidnapped my son and almost made off with him to the slaver markets. That act , along with other things shaped policy in The Greenbelt.
Stick THAT in your pipe Pavetta! Is what he thinks.
As an aside, there is a Black Sister that went by the name of Faelin – My spymaster reported that she headed towards your capital about 18 months ago. Any information that you have- would help our conversations start off right.
***
While eating the quail that is being served, Lord Bronin comments again about a mutually beneficial trade. Speaking to the Baron (and not the person earmarked as the trade negotiator),
For Trade negotiations, the nation has two very capable people on our council. Sir Simon, a pious cleric of Heroneous, and Professor Clyburn. They are a great combination of brains and prudence.
I once heard a famous quote, The best trades are ones where both sides of the table feel as if they lost in negotiations.
He gives a bright smile at this last part. He doesn't remember who he heard it from, and he probably misquoted it....but it DID sound cool and philisophical. Very un-Bronin like.
*******
When is the next Counsel meeting? I'd really like to meet all the others that are a part of the government. I recall quite a few that were at the Kragis Aire Charter contest -- fighting for you in your ultimate victory. There's a few faces that I haven't seen yet.
When is that next meeting, or is there a social event we could arrange?
************
When appropriate, Bronin also tries to engage Lew. The un-expected person from an obviously hostile and war like culture.
Lew, as Ambassador for Armag the Twice Born. I am V-E-R-Y interested in hearing more from you on the goals of your country.
Pavetta purses her lips in a tight line, obviously annoyed with Bronin’s form of diplomacy, and prods at his declaration about the slave trade.
”Are you saying that slavery is banned in all forms in the Greenbelt, or just the buying and selling thereof? What would your policy be on owners passing passing through with slaves in their entourage?”
***
Baron Drelev shifts in his chair at the mention of the Black Sister Faolan. ”Black Sisters have visited my lands, but I am unaware of the one you mentioned. Between the strict order preached by our local Kor Priest Disciple Makora and the growing faith in the Shining One worshipped by the lizardfolk the Sisters have not found welcome among my people, and do not often linger here.”
Shifting the conversation, Drelev waves off the subject of his council. ”We have no set schedule for meeting. Some members are traveling at the moment, and we will gather when they return, or soon after.”
***
Lew smiles broadly at Bronin’s direct question. ”Armag follows the old ways and the Wildlanders follow him for it. He believes a King of me should be the strongest of them. He is impressed with your invasion and annexation of the Lostlands. It is said you defeated an undead giant to claim the lands. Is this true?”
”Are you saying that slavery is banned in all forms in the Greenbelt, or just the buying and selling thereof?
To which Lord Bronin answers, in a straight forward and matter of fact voice. Wondering to himself, “Why is he having to engage in a direct conversation with a woman?”. Shouldn’t the Baron take control of his household and wife? With that said, this is her home and she is a woman of station so he gives her the honorific.
Roofmistress Pavetta , you ask an excellent legal question. To my knowledge no one has been stupid enough to bring slaves into the Greenbelt. The men in charge of each trade caravan have done their jobs to meld easily into what is required of them.Upon hearing this, Tremmel the bard chokes on his dinner wine. Coughing and getting a generally ill look on his face.
Again, great question , and an item of negotiation delegated to Sir Simon and Professor Clybourne to work out the mechanics of -- how a slaveowner and his slaves would travel through Syradel’s lands.
*******
He is impressed with your invasion and annexation of the Lostlands. It is said you defeated an undead giant to claim the lands. Is this true?”
With this direct engagement from Lew, Lord Bronin seems genuinely impressed by Lew.
Lew, you are perfect for your job as diplomat. Your question -followed up with the statement – puts you in a great diplomatic situation. No matter what my answer – you are going to be able to spin it to your advantage. Kudos to you for framing the question so adeptly. For example, if I take the tact that our country don’t invade Syrascar - -we’d look weak to your ruler. But on the flipside, if I answer in a way that suggested I am a warmonger and I gleefully attack my neighbors - then Baron Trelev has every right to be nervous and would ally with Armag to protect himself from encroachment by Syradel.Again, kudos to you for such a win-win scenario.
Given that my answer will be twisted, I think the straight truth is my best course of action.
The Ascari LostLands were my homeland from birth. I already knew the culture and the people. Family members were living there. But, it was not my chartered area and I was willing to leave Varnhold well enough alone. For The Greenbelt held enough challenges to hold my attention.
That was until Baron Meagar Varn opened up a crypt to a Cycloptic Lich and got himself and his counsel killed. That would not have caused me to intervene – except that same Lich kidnapped all the citizens. My family and childhood friends were abducted – gone without much of a trace – so My counsel and I investigated and freed the land from the Lich. Killing it and freeing the remaining population from it’s influence. Baron Varn was dead. His Mirror blade left for me to claim – which I did without apprehension. It should not be a secret –I freely say that I did not like Meagar Varn . It was his direct and intentional choices that led to his death.
With the former lord dead , me in possession of the mirror blade, and the fact that the Syrascar tribes already knew me made it easy and natural for them to CHOOSE to be a part of Syradel.
If you want to use the word invasion of Varnhold– go ahead. Baron Varn was already dead by the Lich and an empty land (abducted people) could be invaded by a one armed leper. Not much of an accomplishment.
The Cyclops Lich was very formidable and I give equal compliment to my comrades for it’s defeat.
*******
So, Baron – I am very interested in how does the counsel get along? You mentioned the religious power of your High Priest of Kor – but I also heard you have a Priestess of Alidamara.
Please answer honestly, how DOES THAT pairing go? Talk about trying to mate a Warhorse with a Wolverine!
He laughs so heartily. He loves his own joke so dang much.
And what about New Atalan being built upon the ancient ruins of Atalan? Any amazing discoveries or revelations? I have a bunch of people back home that have a dozen questions about Ancient Atalan.
Bronin’s diplomatic response to the intricacies of the slave trade seem to quell further conversation on the matter. Drelev’s serving staff sets plates before the guests and bear forth platters of venison and duck with roasted mushrooms and onions alongside a spiced squash soup.
Lew grabs a whole duck and tears it apart, the juices dripping from his big callused hands as he listens to Bronin’s cagey reply and extended explanation. He seems almost disappointed. ”Varn was a selfish fool who put your people in peril. I think you would have been justified to invade and remove the b@stard. But your story has merits and I imagine skalds will likely pass it around for some time. Armag respects strength, and you’ve shown it.” He smiles and glances briefly in Baron Drelev’s direction over a bite of duck meat.
Turning the conversation to the other Lord in the Room, Bronin’s questions elicit a chuckle from Drelev.
”There are too many old gods in this region to favor one too much. The Kor Empire taught us the folly of such belief. Many Kor priests now follow a path of cooperation as a sort of penance for the sins of those who came before. Having one as my religious advisor is probably the best choice I have made. But since you ask, let me pose the question to you, for I have heard that your High Priest follows the way of the Shalm, yet your constant companions upon the trail are said to follow Heironoius. How does this work within your kingdom?”
He smiles and glances briefly in Baron Drelev’s direction over a bite of duck meat.
Internally thinking , Lord Bronin takes this look at confirming what he thought. Baron Drelev is on the Target list for Armag. Poor Drelev. Getting rolled over in the mud at home by his wife and her wealthy family and getting rolled over in town and outward by Armag and his influence.
He will have to talk with his diplomat to see if he's reading thingsright.
Varn was a selfish fool who put your people in peril
That is something that we certainly agree on. All my prior dealings with him did reflect the dead fool that he ended up being.
all the land, and certainly it's neighbors are******
When Baron Drelev asks him the religion question, he does note the fact that Drelev avoided the question about Alidamara.
Your question is very easy to answer. The Shalm speaks to my heart and soul. Always has- especially in my search for my father who is as devout a follower of The Shalm as there can be.
But my religion does not guide that of the nation.
The major fact that most of the Greenbelt is forest makes those that live and work within it sees the Shalm's hand and influence within their daily lives. The cycle of life is seen so vividly.....
he seems like he's looking for the right word.
" Present" in the deserts of the Lostlands and the woodlands.
Now Heroneous has far more sway, his rigid and lawful philosophies run with fervor in two or three cities. It seems city-folk - flocking to our region from far abroad- find a level of comfort in knowing that if they build a house in one of our cities - there's a sense of rules and regulations- law and order - to reply on.
My companions are examples of those city-folk that have come from elsewhere.
I would say that we have two religions growing and thriving within our borders. One for the cities, one for the rural areas.
Bringing his original question back around, Now I have heard stories of those that have experience with Alidamara and her clerics. You have to share a story or two of how The great tricksters are influencing your lands.
He also presses again to get the maiden name for Pavetta.
Now that we have shared a few fun stories, it's time to draw upon some REAL conversation.
For example, I was able to see that you had a Boggard problem. I may have a significant solution for you.
Then there's the background to your invitation here. You obviously have a motive to this dialogue beyond just getting to know me as a neighbor and fellow Baron.
Lastly, the equal exchange of information. When I say that, I mean EQUAL. Do not waste anyone's time with anything but a solid Vis-a-vis.
He looks over to his Diplomat I used that word you told me to use -right?
Turning back to Baron Drelev.
I am also here to spring the trap that has been set against me. And don't be offended by my straightforwardness. If YOU aren't working a trap against me, someone else within your counsel or outside is angling to trap me or my country.
It's a given that this trip has a pitfall or two I need to be wary of.
Baron Drelev listens to Bronin’s complex explanation of the religious dichotomy of Syradel, but doesn’t offer much in reply to further questions of religion in his own kingdom.
”There is a priestess of Olidammera, but her religion is not organized, nor influential.”
Drelev works at his food without any particular table manners, like a soldier at a task. His wife Pavetta displays trained etiquette. They both seem civilized compared to Lew. Bronin has his guesses about the politics at work in the room, but no one is showing enough of their hand for him to know if he is correct.
Abruptly changing the subject, Bronin also changes the mood in the room.
”The boggards have been a nuisance, but not one we cannot manage on our own. They occupy a swamp with few resources, unless you count bugs, disease, and awful stenches.” Drelev’s scowl deepens. ”As for this invitation, indeed your words threaten to offend. If you thought it was a trap, why come? And why send your men away and leave yourself vulnerable?”
To the side, Lew chuckles over greasy chicken. ”Lord Bronin is a hero. Heroes don’t fear their own death. Only the loss of honor or glory.”
Heroes don’t fear their own death
An appropriate comment to which Bronin piggybacks.
Again, no offense is meant. The Diplomat Lew is very right. That is my stance. I am not here fearing death.I am also very aware of my best skills and diplomacy and politics are not my strong suits. This dinner being a good example in that I am here to learn more. Lots more about the neighbors to my kingdom.
So far, with this dinner, tangible information has been sparse. It's been hard to engage in real dialogue until I become blunt (he thinks about it and changes his wording.) Okay, I became blunt.
Should you change you mind about the Boggards, I am here to help. The Swamp may not have resources, but the river they are close to does. The Boggards can not become a nuisance - with no strings attached. A sign of good faith by a neighbor.
As for sending my men away, they are very valuable in running the kingdom while I am gone. They have more of the politics skills that I mentioned escapes me.
So time for more "Bronin" bluntness - Please tell me more about the real state of affairs for my neighbors.
If not, then I appreciate the meal, and I will call this dinner and go exploring the town in search of The Real Deal.
bumping.
Bumping. Some More.
”A man who claims no strings attached is a man one should never accept charity from.” Lew pipes up around a mouthful of food, earning another sharp look from Baron Drelev.
After clearing his throat, the Baron replies for himself. ”Everyone knows that the Greenbelt is the most tame of all the Chartered Lands. Success there was not the challenge we to the west face. The Peninsula is a dangerous old forest of enchanted glens and legendary monsters.”
”Almost as dangerous as the Wildland Coast.” Lew adds.
Ignoring the commentary this time, Drelev says, ”I hold the high ground here. A port at the mouth of the Ethrai, open to trade from Kor to the east, Marascar to the north, and the sea folk to the west. It may take some time, but my city will be the jewel of the Feralwood and the seat of true power.”
The table has gone quiet. Those of his court look to Drelev with respect. A spark of ambition and confidence burns in his eyes. A hint of strength, like a caged wolf...
*Clang! Clatter!*
”Well, I’m full.” Lew says as his fork bounces on his plate. ”Time for a nap I’m thinking.”
Lord Bronin absorbs the whole contest. In the Ascari lands those that have just hit puberty and have just gained permission to go on hunting parties commonly have comparison contests during their downtime.
They compare penis size, they compare caught fish size, they compare how big their horse or pig is.
His father-the amazing Brogan- told him once to never engage the others in that kind of contest of bluster.
Ambassador Lew, I wouldn't call working things out with the Boggards as charity. That's a bit of spin.
I think all of us see that a safer river Ethrai fills two coffers with taxes.
Bronin then absorbs the spunk that Baron Drelev is showing.
THIS is his opportunity. The Wildlanders are pressing Baron and have him bent over a barrel.
You know what encourages me the most of this conversation - the talk of trade. Baron Drelev- you are so right to see your land as a central trade haven for a man with a smart merchant mind.
******
If given opportunity to talk without Ambassador Lew in the room,
Bronin sees an opportunity to help Baron free himself a military reliance on the Wildlanders and be the merchant power he has all the skills and capacity to be. Bronin is not a money or merchant guy, he doesn't swim in that kind of lake. He feels he can tame wild forests and defeat monsters. This is a partnership that can really be good for Syradel.
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Lew gives a dismissing wave of his right hand, his left occupied with tilting a cup to his lips. After a guzzling down the wine within he plunks the cup on the table and wipes his face with his arm. ”Boggards are a minor irritation. Nothing more. Real trade comes from ships.”
Stopping the table, Lew stands and announces an impending attack upon Baron Drelev’s privy, then marches off to battle.
Drelev stands himself, obviously irritated with the situation. ”Trade is the route to prosperity. Wildlanders are lazy, and prefer other means to gather wealth. You haven’t dealt with them, but you’ll see soon enough.”
With those words, whether they are a promise or threat is unclear, Drelev ends the dinner and sends the delegation from Syradel back to their quarters.
***
Back in your room, Tremal turns and whispers to Bronin.
”I suspected something was amiss here. Much has changed since my last visit to Drelev’s court. I believe that the Wildlanders hold some sort of power over him now. Lew was giving him subtle signs through dinner. Warnings I think.”
”I also saw someone we may want to talk to. Terrion Numesti’s daughter, Kisandra, was in the hall outside. I believe she was trying to peek in on the dinner. You should try to speak with her, and I have an idea on how to arrange an encounter.”
Tremal proposes that he assume a magical disguise to temporarily appear to be Bronin, while he turns Bronin himself invisible. He will then take a walk and test the limits of freedom in the keep, making himself seen so to draw out Kisandra for Bronin to secretly make contact with.
Lord Bronin is glad that he has such help in seeing through the political fog. Bronin just didn’t see those subtle warnings and maybe that is a good thing. He does a great job of commanding attention and is so outlandish that maybe…just maybe… this gives Tremal a chance to operate behind my shroud.
Quietly that is an excellent plan. Make no mistake, Romag is the ultimate enemy to the security of our country. He wants domination, and has eyes on Syradel. When you are ready, so am I.
Tremal sings a word, flourishes his hand, and magically assumes the likeness of Duke Bronin.
Bronin looks at himself, and is surprised by the details. A small scar here, a tousle of hair gone the wrong way as if missed by a comb, and a fresh stain of chicken grease from dinner.
”Well? How do I look?” Tremal/Bronin asks, and though his voice isn’t perfect, it’s a good imitation. Almost too good.
It’s possible Tremal might have had a little private practice at this...
Bronin takes an involuntary step back. He is dramatically surprised at how good of a transformation that Tremal accomplished.
That is remarkable. If this doesn't work, it's not for a lack of superb skill on your part. Let is go into action.
He then takes out a rod, a magic rod. Will this rod that allows you to cast spells silently (but only 3 times) might be of great help to you?
I can keep it myself, but I instead think it'll benefit you more.
He waits for the invisibility spell and downs an elixir of hiding (one of two that he has) so he is incredibly stealthy.
”You hold the rod. I do not intend to cast spells. They might give me away.”
Tremal-Bronin steps leaves the quarters assigned to the diplomatic party. He is confronted briefly by a guard, and maneuvers him a few steps away so that Invisible-Bronin can slip by. In short order Tremal-Bronin is allowed down to the courtyard where he begins a long series of warm up stretches with his sword.
It is not long before Invisible-Bronin notices a girl watching from a doorway. She has chestnut brown hair and almond shaped eyes common to certain older families from the Kor Empire. She is a little exotic by western norms, yet beautiful.
Wow, she is beautiful. Then another part of his mind shuts down that line of thinking. Women are just my enemies pawns in this game. Just like they did with Lili. Turning his affections into ash.
But, I must give this Terrion the benefit of a doubt, it is wise that he uses a maiden to secretly try to set up a meeting. No one would suspect a woman to be a part of the political wheel.
Bronin moves quietly up to Kisandra. and whispers both a standard greeting and honorific given to a pure woman that is not married,
May you find shade from the desert sun in all your travels- oh Vestal Kisandra. How may *I*, Lord Bronin of Syrascar help your father Terrion Numesti?
Bump
Kisandra looks around, startled by a voice so close. She looks back at Tremal/Bronin out in the courtyard and rubs her eyes. ”How are you doing this? Some kind of magic?”
Yes, a type of magic. Time is short and your need is great. What can you tell me so that I can help your father. I'd prefer talking with him one on one and avoid go-betweens.
Lord Bronin talks with a sense of urgency, but has a kind voice. The voice of an understanding adult to a child. He knows he needs to get to "the main man" to get real answers. He sure hopes he doesn't have to dilly-dally with the incessantly chattering women-talk.
and his tone was respectful and diplomatic.
Whether it is from Bronin’s words or a hidden personal strength, Kisandra quickly recovers from her surprise and assesses the situation. Looking about to makes sure no others are within earshot, she confides in Bronin’s unseen voice.
”You are in grave danger here, Lord Bronin. Baron Drelev is a puppet to Baron Armag Twice-Born. Armag and a force of his barbarians sailed to New Atalan under the guise of traders, but he had many warriors hidden in their boats. Drelev had not the soldiers to fight off such numbers. My father was one of the few present when Armag demanded surrender. He tried to convince Drelev to fight, but was locked away in the dungeons for his efforts. Armag didn’t stay in the city long, and left Lew to keep an eye on affairs here. Lew was given instructions to keep you occupied should you accept an invitation to visit. At this very moment a force of Wildland Raiders marches upon your lands, led by one of Armag’s captains, a brutish man named Aemon Trask.”
Bronin remembers Aemon from the Tournament of Lords. He aided Armag in his successful bid for a charter.
Lord Bronin hears this report, and exhales.
It is worse than I feared. I had hoped that Drelev would have been made of "harder" stuff. He should have come to us for an alliance sooner.
But now that we have a clear idea of our predicament, we must warn The Counsel of SyraScar of the attack. The best defenders in the land have already left to return. I should be there to smite This Aemon fellow, but Sir Gregory is unrivaled in the saddle and can take care of things even if I am stuck here.
So, what can be done HERE to help? I know that you have thought long and hard about this conversation - Since your father is imprisoned, is there any hope or fruit to be gained from getting him freed?
”I have visiting rights for my father, and if you can remain unseen I can lead you there, but I don’t know how we could free him without dealing with his guards.” Kisandra considers a moment. ”And escaping the keep would require fast horses. I have heard you are Ascari. Are their horsemen as good as they say? If so, we may outrun pursuit if we can get beyond the walls. The Baron’s men are not skilled riders, and the Wildlanders have no horses.”
My horse Patience, is an amazing Stallion that is probably twice as fast as any horse here. But your plan doesn't seem as plausible as it is not my desire to kill or incapacitate The Lord Drelve's men in a jailbreak.
Let us go see him, and see if there's opportunity to learn more and maybe plan something better.
Something doesn't quite sit well with Bronin. This is more the trap he was envisioning.
”I could take you to him, but it is not my plan to fight Drelev’s men.” Kisandra shakes her head, and Bronin senses she is likely telling the truth. It seems she doesn’t really have a plan to rescue her father, and Bronin suspects she didn’t think it was possible under present circumstances. ”My father was friend and elder to them, but they are sworn to Drelev, and have little choice but to follow the commands from their Lord. I don’t think they will harm him, but every day Drelev loses more authority to the Wildlanders, and if Lew thought him a threat then he could suggest those guards be replaced.” Kisandra scowls. ”I hate to leave him there, but he and I agree - the best chance for the citizens of Gloamwheald lay in finding an ally.”
Then we are in agreement. Lead the way to your father and I will talk with him. I am still invisible and need to act quickly so I can return. We need to be secretive, because Lew will certainly have spies or allies that will tell him of perceived threats.
I promise the people of Goamwheald that I will be that ally - as long as we gave a good and solid plan.
Bronin moves to follow.
How long do i think I have the invisibility? Or will I need to sneak?
Leading Bronin into the keep, Kisandra heads down a flight of stairs to a cold, earth-floored cellar used to store extra food. Here Kisandra knocks on a sturdy iron-bound side door, which is answered by a man through a small window. He soon unlocks and opens the door and allows her into a musty dungeon. Five cells, complete with meticulously crafted iron bars and doors, fill most of the space. A wooden door also leads east to a functioning latrine, judging by the smell. Two guards sit here, wrapped in cloaks against the chill.
In the largest cell sits Terrion Numesti, a middle-aged man with dark hair and short beard. He appears healthy, and smiles at the sight of his daughter. Kisandra moves to his door and they clasp hands briefly, sharing words of support. When the guards go back to small talk she whispers.
”I have someone here with me, concealed by magic. Lord Bronin of Syradel. He may be able to help us. I will cover with the guards while you talk.”
Stepping away from the cell, Kisandra sparks up conversation with the guards, asking after her father’s health, his food, and suggesting supplies of books and games to pass the time.
Whispering in a spot near the bars...Honored One- Terrion Numestri. As your daughter mentioned, I am Lord Bronin Dohari and here to help in anyway I can. The insatiable Armag has taken over your city, and is sending an army to go after mine.
We have great defenses and an army, so I am here to see how Syradel can help you and the people you serve.
I need to know what is really happening here- and not what the puppet at the dinner table is telling me. I need to get suggestions on whom to trust and plans on how to help you. Be extra fast because the magics are wearing off.
Bronin really doesn't remember the horrible math problems that the teachers at Kragis Aire used to try to teach him. He only remembers lots of encounters with The Professor using the spell and his gut reaction on how long it'll last. Which his gut is telling him it should have worn off already... so he'll also make attempts to use stealth and hide in shadows.
Terrion starts at the sudden whisper, but composes himself quickly.
”Lord Bronin, I am in no condition to escape this place. My daughter should have conveyed that to you. But you can still help me - you can take Kisandra from this place and keep her safe. She is young and strong. She can run, or ride as needed. And she knows who to trust in the city. She may not wish to leave me, but as long as she remains, Armag has leverage over me. You must take her and return to your people. Armag’s forces are brutal and experienced, and your people will need you when they attack.”
Terrion pauses to think as something occurs to him. ”I suspect the soldiers here may make an attempt upon your life. I am surprised they have not yet tried. If you brought a large enough retinue then perhaps they will only seek to delay your return.”
[smaller] Then I will take her to safety. But only because I know what it's like when the enemy has leverage over a loved one. Know she will be safe and act accordingly.
Now, speak to her and send her back to the towers and safety. I can use her movements to get to safety.
********
Bronin moves carefully back to the shadows. Waits a second for Terrion to speak aloud to his daughter and give him cover to move silently past the guards and to a safer spot further down the hall where he will hide in the shadows and wait for Kisandra.
If everything goes okay, and they meet back up, he whispers to her:
We are sneaking out of this Keep. We are getting my diplomat, My Horse Patience, and the both of us are getting away from this place. Your dad demanded your safety - so I will comply.
Bronin makes it out of the dungeons, but his invisibility spell fades as he and Kisandra return hallways near the courtyard. As they approach, the sounds of steel against still ring in the air.
"With all that I have heard, I truly thought you would be a tougher foe!" The voice of Hannis Drelev calls out.
"Maybe.. I'm just.. toying.. with.. you.." Comes a labored response.
Arriving at an entrance to the courtyard, Bronin finds Hannis Drelev squared off against himself. Or rather, the false illusion worn by Tremal. The blood, however, looks very real on the diplomat.
Soldiers stand nearby, guarding the exits. From the steps to the keep Lew watches intently.
"Oh no.." Kisandra gasps softly, then looks to Bronin. "I thought they would wait longer before trying something like this. I think they mean to capture or kill you."
Bronin activates his ring of Friend Shield.
and turns to Kisandra -- Escape this place! I will try to get out myself, but I first need to save one of my men.
Then he advances. in a booming voice,
BARON DRELEV! LEAVE MY MAN ALONE. YOU WANT TO SHED BLOOD- TAKE A SHOT AT ME. I CAME HERE UNDER PEACE AND YOU TURN COLOR.
You have made mistake upon mistake Baron. Time to pay the butchers bill.
Those in the courtyard turn in confusion at the sudden sound of Bronin’s voice.
”What is this now?” Drelev asks, holding his sword for a moment.
Tremal/Bronin waves a dismissive hand at the real Bronin. ”Tremal, it’s no use. They know now. The game is up.” To Drelev, he says, ”I surrender. Let me send my man back to negotiate terms at my command. If you hold us both Syradel will have no choice but to go to war, and if you win, which isn’t certain I assure you, it will be very costly. You won’t have enough men left to defend your realm from anyone else.”
Drelev pauses, uncertain.
Bronin is itching to fight.
But, he sees Tremal's play. It's far smarter than Bronin's hopeless hack and slash.
Yes Lord. I will flee this place and negotiate. But know that I would gladly lay down my life for the nation of Syradel. You are truly a great Lord.
With that, Bronin finishes casting his Longstrider spell and dashes off.
He pulls out his weapon( flavor) but instead of his usual mirror blade long sword, he puts the short sword in his primary hand.