Kingmaker: Stolen Lands of the Shining

Game Master BloodWolven

Kevros lowers his weapon to a ready position but he is not quite comfortable putting everything away just yet and going back to their previous activities. He cringes at Masota's suggestion to join up, remains quiet since his specialty is not diplomacy with words, and is at the ready just in case diplomacy with words breaks down into stick diplomacy. Although he will turn on the half-orcs long before he gives them a chance to turn on them.

*Puff* The hooded figure reappears just where he was before, as if he never left. "That was well done, now I am no swordlord just a messenger, it is true what Dalvik, indicating the half-orc, has said, he and his group did come for a charter in another part of town. Just like you come to claim your charter when another group challenged them for it, there was no negotiations just blood and blades. You seem to be a better candidate than either of the previous groups, due to your lack of wanting violence and negotiations. Please hold to your negotiations, responsibilities and thus ruling, for violence will be in Greenbelt aplenty. I leave this charter with you, make sure that you sign it."
With that he or she says a few more words of power and zaps into black nothingness with what looks like dust just fall in what was its silhouette.

Angeus shrugs at Dalvik, "The Swordlords have spoken! And really Dalvik , you and your lot have a good thing going here in Restov, did you truly want to be traipsing around in the wilderness when you could be here drinking the Ivory Lass' finest?"

The last said with a wink and nod to the dwarf behind the bar and a gold coin tossed through the air.

"Enjoy an round on me, reward for listening before cutting."

She then turns back to her new companions with a smile "Now, about that dinner, the threat of violence makes me famished!"

Kevros still waits until the hostilities calm before relaxing. Too many months at the Northern lines and strife throughout Brevoy to easily return to a cordial state. Kevros waits his turn to review the messenger's charter and sign it.

Kevros then thinks to himself, "This quest also seems to be a test. I find it interesting how strings are still being pulled for something such this. Well at least the pay will or should be better and I can decide what gear I want to use."

Confused a moment Quince looks about. He looks to his new companions and those at the door. "Jweorunt werelj wlelgen . . . "

He shakes his head and composes himself. "It is done and decided. Come let us lay weapons aside there is food and drink to share." He removes his hand from his mace and when satisfied that the situation is calmed down. "Drinks" Quince nods to the 1/2 orc in an overture of truce.

He turns toward the charter signs it and marks it with his family seal. Medvyed though of a lessor house.

S'ala is actually quite surprised that his ploy for calm and discussion did not end in blows. Such has been his experience in the wider world where steel prevails over reason.

He quickly thinks his superiors who taught him the discipline of peace and reason even when all others are losing their composure. He cocks an eyebrow at the group who are now sharing drinks instead of deathly blows "I am pleased." he says to no one in particular and for an instant a shadow of smile crosses his face, quicly replaced by the grim visage he carries at all times.

He walks around the remaining newcomers and resumes his seat near the bar giving a brief nod to the Dwarf barkeep as if to say "All is well".

Despite trying her best to suppress it, a smirk crosses Masota's face. She found herself amused by the situation as a whole and a bit embarrassed. A test. Of course. She shakes her head if as if trying to forget about the whole ordeal.

"Apologies Dalvik. It's a shame your quest ended the way it did. Perhaps another time." She gives the half-orc a knowing smile and nod.

Masota turns to head back to the table with the charter on it. She nearly trips over herself when Quince speaks in Celestial. She looks at Quince and arches her eyebrow. "It's been ages since I've heard someone speak the divine tongue. Interesting..."

Instead of immediately signing the charter she takes a seat at the table and leans against her hand as she watches the others look over the charter.

Kevros places his Repeating Heavy Crossbow in a safe condition, walks over to sign the charter, then speaks up ... Bartender, how much is it to feed the house?!" ... Kevros continues to keep one eye on the Half-Orcs, test or no test.

The half-orc, Dalvik, and his group enjoy the drinks offered and enjoy their time with themselves and those around them. Soon the night is boasting of stories and jests, all in the good nature of a fine tavern. Dalvik continues to push his way into coming with the group with references towards the grand adventure they will be having without him and extra protection. Do a diplomacy check to see if he will become one of your contacts that you can call on again in the future.

There are several other individuals that you get to know in the tavern as well, that show interest in your charter. Saren a human fighter with greatsword and bow. Akrolon a wizard who would like to find a hidden trove of magic in some ruins within the Greenbelt. Finally, Narcissa a generalist of arcane and divine magic that has a focus in healing and brewing potions to fix most aliments.

Do you go get a room at a nearby inn? By yourself, with someone, with several people, who, etc.? The next day, the group gets back together at the Ivory Lass, with the other noted NPCs, before you leave.

I think deciding which NPCs to attempt bring along is something we should probably talk about in discussion a bit. The way Masota is, she would invite every single person that wished to come with them as long as they weren't a jerk. I'd also like to know a little more about how they act and how they carry themselves. And I'd like to use detect evil on all of them just to be safe.

Masota would also prefer to stay in an inn where she could have her own room. Oh, and I pay Kevros for the stabling, however much that should be.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (6) + 12 = 18

S'ala would sleep in the common dormitory or whatever accomodations his "work" as bouncer earned him even if that's a straw pallet in the corner somewhere. He would also eat whatever his work provided.

After watching over the common room, S'ala ate his provided simple supper and found the appropriate place to lie down for the night. As he slept he couldn't get the thoughts of that group of adventurerers headed to tame the chaotic wild lands out of his head. "Perhaps our meeting was not chance, and I am intended to help create peace and law where none now exists?" he thought. "I will contemplate this and look for guidance..

He knelt in the corner, meditating and looking for answers to his questions within, as was his teaching.

When morning came, he had decided to approach the group, but was disappointed to see a line forming to discuss the venture with them. Sighing to himself, he went back and ate his simple breakfast, watching the group's preparations.

Since Kevros only trusts Masota at this time, she is the only one that he would share a room with. However since they are not a couple and there is availability, Kevros will sleep in his own room until he gets to know his comrades better and etc. Then maybe, they can share a room to save costs.

Kevros relaxes more and more as the night turns into camaraderie. He looks at Masota's outstretched hand to pay him back, then makes eye contact, and smiles ... "No need, the stabling is on me."

In the morning, Kevros arrives at the Ivory Lass early refreshed and lets the diplomats handled the logistics while he has breakfast and drinks a cup of tea. He will purchase and extra tea for Masota and tells him to give her the tea when she arrives at the Ivory Lass so it is warm.

Angeus signed the charter with a flourish after reading it , then enjoys the food , drink and conversation that ensues afterward.

She lets a room by herself at the inn and returns early to discuss the possibility of taking on additional members.

Her observation are as follows It would appear that all could be of use, especially the healer. The wizard intrigues me, but a man after treasure may not be as loyal down the road."

She notices that the "bouncer" from the previous evenings events made an abortive approach to their table. Calling over to him " Come join our deliberations. If you were to join our expedition... she allows him to fill in the rest of that thought.

Masota returns to the ivory lass early in the morning, eager to learn more about her new companions and those that may possibly be joining them in the future.

She takes a seat at the same table from the previous night and is pleasantly surprised when she receives a cup of tea shortly after sitting. She smiles at Kevros and thanks the man when she learns its from him. Masota looks up to the gathered group of hopeful adventurers and addresses them. "Now then..." she pauses to take a quick sip from the tea before setting it back on the table, "I would like to hear your reasons for traveling with us. Taming the stolen lands will not be easy and I do not wish to take those that lack the resolve or skill to make it through our most trying times."

S'ala is surprised to be singled out by the confident leather clad half-elf. Complying to her request he rises and joins the group at their table. His accent is thick, but his voice is clear and resonating:

"This One has alone walked the Path of Peace for a more than a year. Your quest to bring order to the wild places and safety to innocents furthers this One's calling. Working with others will be unfamiliar to this One, but this One would join you if you would have him..

While speaking you can see S'ala's grim visage remains unchanged and his hard dark eyes do not change expression but remain hard as flint.

"There would be conditions should this One be chosen. First, this One will not lay claim to any personal gain or glory but will only claim enough to cover the cost of this One's keep with a small tithe back to The Masters. Second, your means and ends must be to instill peace and protect innocents, not to further your own ends or to do violence arbitrarily. There is violence enough in this world."

"You have no need to question this One's resolve or discipline. If this One says a thing, it will be done." he says firmly, giving a nod to the aasimar knight. "This One has some skill with weapons but will only act to protect innocents or in defense of peace, and after all other measures have failed."

Kevros focuses on Angeus, "Good morning Angeus and I agree, a full time healer is also needed for our mission or quest to the Stolen Lands."

... A Short Time Later ...

Kevros smiles back at Masota, "You're welcome! The least I can do for your past and future healing touch, and most importantly, your friendship." As S'ala speaks, Kevros has glazed eyes and nods in agreement to be respectful and after he finishes, he holds out his hand to S'ala to shake ... "Sorry, I didn't catch your name yesterday, my name is Kevros, Well met! You definitely have an honorable goal!"

Masota listens as the bouncer from last night speaks. When he's finished she leans into Kevros and whispers, doing her best to imitate the monk's tone, "I like 'this One'." She tries to suppress her laughter but it comes anyway. When she catches S'ala's gaze she straightens back out and clears her throat. "Yes, Kevros' thoughts mirror my own. Helping others is a noble pursuit. I see no reason why we wouldn't allow you to travel with us...unless the others have any objections?"

For continuity

Kevros laughs a little bit to Masota's playful imitation of S'ala and tries very hard to only share it with her. Then bursts out when Masota laughs only to correct himself as well when he extends his hand to shake S'ala's hand.

While waiting for S'ala to shake his hand, Kevros responds ... "I have no objections for the gentleman or any gentlemen or lady with noble pursuits to travel with us to the Stolen Lands."

S'ala shakes hands with the half-elf. "I wonder what is so amusing?" he wonders to himself, not aware how is speech is received by the others. He makes a bow in the direction of the partners. "This One will await your departure outside,". He departs gathering up his few belongings and heading out the door until the group is ready.

Confused. "Celestial? I huh. Oh you speak it as well?" Quince spends the remainder of the evening enjoying the company of the others. Takes a room by himself.

In the morning Quince joins the others to make preparations. "Does this one have a name? Quince smiles addressing S'ala. "Violence is sometimes unavoidable but I agree it should be at the end of need."

Listening to the recommendations of the others Quince agrees that additional help may be warranted. {b]"The healer would be wise to keep close."[/b] Thoughtfully he continues, "Though the wizard might be of more use chasing his own ends, if they are completely evil in intent. Place him on retainer, allow him freedom of movement, let him search for his ruins and treasure. We simply ask that we review his findings in regard to the land, its resources and its people."

Kevros keeps a straight and professional composure while shaking S'ala's hand and was wondering if you was going to get a name out of the quiet monk. Kevros waves back as S'ala bows and responds ... "ONE, WE'LL catch up with you outside" ... then laughs and turns to Masota ... "See what you started, "The One", thinks we are unprofessional!" ... then laughs a little more ... straightens up and inhales ... "Kevros is now professional" ... pauses ... Quince what brings you to the Ivory Lass for an adventure into the Stolen Lands?"

Quince smiles, "Well my most professional friend. It probably depends on the day; compassion for those who face bandits and lawlessness, duty my extended family has responsibility to aid in causes of Brevoy, curiosity there are many legends of wild animals and fey creatures that I want to know, justice to see evil men brought low," Grows a little sad. "I lost a father and several lumberjacks to bandits in the stolen lands."

Looks back over his shoulder to the door. "Does That One think we will be getting underway right way?

Angeus sits at the table, sipping a mulled wine, as the others question S'ala, smiling at their joke,then watching , appraising, as he leaves.

"That one I like, his opinions mirror my own somewhat, if a bit stringent, with 'The Masters' and such. But I think he would be a stalwart ally. she say, then goes silent as Quince reveals his loss.

Kevros... to your earlier question of feeding the tavern, would be two gold.

Masota failed on the making Dalvik a contact.

Saren is a gruff fighter who is looking for a way to get away from his vice, drinking. He is a drunkard when in towns, he enjoys it but would prefer to get out get some more gold and experience.

Akrolon hides his secrets well, never giving a straight answer. If it is a question about something other than him and in his domain, he willing gives answers and a smile starts to show on his face.

Narcissa is a very flirtatious woman of sensuality, she is a very knowledgeable person of worldly ways. She needs to find certain herbs and traveling with you would be a safe way doing it. She also knows two hermits in the area that could help you. A simple healer that would be very helpful.

Dalvik a brash half-orc barbarian, who thinks he deserves anything in sight, but will ask and normally is given. A crude leader and keeps peace with a strong fist. He is rather loyal and makes sure that his group is fair in splits and food.

The barkeep keeps S'ala well fed and gives you a good pallet down in the cellar for the night, he also gives you a gold for keeping the fight from starting.

The next morning Saren and Akrolon would not be approaching the group but wait for them. Narcissa and Dalvik would be with the group.

The local inn does not have good accomodations, so you have common (5sp) or poor (2sp) and there is plenty of room. There is an inn of ill repute nearby as well, two rooms for just sleeping good (2gp), and seven rooms with a companion for an hour (5gp) or for the night (12gp).

S'ala I don't think signed the charter. Unless I missed it. I know that the other players did. Have the NPC's also signed (and thus would at least at this point have an equal say in matters) or is it just Quince, Kevros, Masota and Angeus. Just wanted to clarify.

Masota watches on as Kevros and S'ala interact, amused at the awkwardness of it all. When S'ala leaves, she tries to put on her best innocent face. "What I started? What ever do you mean?" She gives Kevros an exaggerated innocent smile.

She listens to Quince's tale with little reaction. When he makes a mention of S'ala she laughs a bit to herself. "Maybe he's just excited? He seems like the type." She does her best to hide her growing smile. "Still...I'd like to leave as soon as we are able as well. If you don't mind," Masota motions to Dalvik and Narcissa, "I'd like to privately discuss which of you we'd have accompany us with the others."

Assuming Dalvik and Narcissa leave the table everyone is gathered at, Masota begins telling the others what she thinks about those interested in joining them. "I believe we all agree the bouncer is a good choice? The others, however, I have a few concerns about and I would like to hear everyone's opinion on the matter. Saren seems capable enough and I doubt we'll run into any taverns in the stolen lands. He may be worth taking but if we can't keep him sober he may be more trouble than he's worth. Akrolon..." she pauses, thinking of a nice way to phrase her words, "concerns me. He keeps too many secrets which makes me wary to trust him. I would prefer to be in the company solely of those I can trust. And Narcissa..." she pauses and looks over toward the woman before continuing, "while she would no doubt be useful, I'm concerned she may cause some...distractions."

Chuckling Quince nods, "Perhaps her distraction will keep Saren interested in a different . . . intoxicant." After a brief laugh, Quince continues, "I think that we should discuss with them any ground rules we think are wise and let them know that this is a serious matter and being less than professional will not be welcome."

"I agree we should set out as soon as possible though we will need provisions. We should also not just interview these few further but ask about if they can be trusted. Also I know a little of the region around the East Sellen and the northern Narlmarches but if we can find a guide that is familiar with the region and recent reliable maps. Chances are no comprehensive maps exist but perhaps a few of specific landmarks trails, or rivers exist. It would be nice to know some of the lay of the land."

The Dwarven barkeep comes over to the group, "Honestly from my little experience with things you won't find anything reliable as maps, notes on landmarks possibly, but your best bet would be a ranger sypathetic to fey, and your lucky enough to have one in here last night and today too, the elf over there in the green cloak and leathers would be one of your best bets. Angeus I want to see you come back, so I offer up the best way to get you back to me, I was once in your shoes. Your choice, good travels!" With that the barkeep goes back behind his bar.

Just let me know which NPC you want to talk to...

Quince nods in thanks to the dwarf. "Thanks that is a help." Quince makes his way over to the elf in the green cloak. "Hello friend. I am Quince Medvyed." He motions to the companions table. "I understand you have traveled the Greenbelt. We are planning an expedition and have heard that you are among the best guides. Join us for a few minutes perhaps we can work together."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18

I have been reluctant to start gathering information because it can take up time. Does it really seem like we are realistically setting out today or will we be taking time to; get info, supplies and such before we blow town? If we have a few hours in character I would make the effort to learn more. I am going to make a gather info roll if we elect to take time ie not set out before lunch today I will ask around. If we already have the info we would get or we are leaving then it can be ignored.

Time Gathering Info: 1d4 ⇒ 3
Diplomacy Check to Gather Info: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13

"As you wish..." the elf says in a stoic voice and follows you back to your companions, then sits down with them, disregarding any hands or forms of greeting.

S'ala did not sign the charter. He wasn't offered a partnership or asked to sign, and his simple terms were met. He is satisfied for now. If that is a problem, and he really needs to sign, just LMK or discuss with him. Sounds like he's got competition in the Stoicism Olympics.

S'ala sits on a wall outside the inn watching the insects on the flowers and studying the people passing -- all part of simply meditating on the Path he has chosen. As significant time passes and his companions do not appear, he wonders if he misunderstood something and goes back inside to investigate.

The Dwarven barkeep comes over to the group, "Honestly from my little experience with things you won't find anything reliable as maps, notes on landmarks possibly, but your best bet would be a ranger sypathetic to fey, and your lucky enough to have one in here last night and today too, the elf over there in the green cloak and leathers would be one of your best bets. Angeus I want to see you come back, so I offer up the best way to get you back to me, I was once in your shoes. Your choice, good travels!" With that the barkeep goes back behind his bar.

Just let me know which NPC you want to talk to...

To the elf "I've some experience in the wilds to the west of here but the south is unknown, it would be a boon to us if you'd give us what aid you can."

Diplomacy 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5 Do i have egg on my face? :)

"What would you ask of me?" He states bluntly.

I just couldn't post last night, my eyes were stinging and my mind was mush. It happens off and on depending on my day in the world of Corporate IT for a large corporation ... I digress... (-3) gold for food and common room with tip.

Kevros smirks and gives a short laugh at Masota's innocent smile ... "I must say, a perfect innocent smile."

Kevros replies in regards to Dalvik and Narcissa ... "All of us have our own goals to the Stolen Lands as well as a common goal. I say allow them to sign the charter as long as their common goal is the same, or if they will not violate the party's overall main goal. In other words, anything that sabotages our main objective. This should encompass going back on their verbal word, their signing of the charter, injuring one of us or worse, bringing any ill repute to the party that effects the objective, and anything else that escapes me at this time."

In regards to the Elf in the green cloak ... "Yes, yes, an Elven Ranger would be a nice addition to our group. We do need a competent scout." ... Kevros pauses and adds ... "Once we get the Ranger to sign or whatever, our next move should be get "The One" ...Kevros smiles and continues ... to sign the charter, then start preparations, and move out by noon or sooner to at least get some distance today However, we shouldn't hurry too much and forget important equipment and provisions."

Masota nods her head in agreement with Kevros. "Very well, I have no objections to allowing the others to accompany us as long as they agree to our terms."

She turns her attention toward the elf ranger that now shares their table. "We require the assistance of a scout during our venture into the stolen lands. I don't expect much trouble in the northern areas but we could use a knowledgeable person like yourself as we explore the more rugged areas. We can offer fair payment, room and board, and a place in our future settlement should you desire it."

Don't know what a scout expects to be paid...making a Diplomacy roll to see if I can butter him up and get a better deal though.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 26

Kevros kindly adds ... "To be honest, nothing on the charter states anything regarding payment from the Swordlords of Restov or us, however we can agree to a coin sum paid to you by us or give us your terms."

Quince responds with an attempt at tact, "Well the representative from the Swordlords implied, at least as I saw it that we who applied directly and acted with diplomacy, including That One, were welcome to sign the charter. I think what lies before us is how we will manage the endeavor. In that endeavor I believe this ranger and some of the others would prove valuable to our cause. Though I am open to other views."

"Now I am typically a man of few words, but Quince you are the only one in your group to introduce yourself. Call me Stalker and you are?"

He waits for introductions then asks a few questions. "What would you like me to be doing exactly, I have ventured forth before and could fight with your group if you choose, or if you want to hold me on retainer for my tracking and scouting skills, or just to make sure that you get to point A to B. What are you looking for?"

"Call me Angeus. Being a capable scout myself, I was primarily interested in your knowledge of the lands of the green belt. But, having you along wouldn't hurt our chances." Angeus says with a smile.

Kevros responds after Quince ... "Everything is in detail of what the Swordlords expect from us except no discussion of payment. I am taking this to mean, purge all unlawfulness, bestiary, and keep what treasure you ascertain from those as payment. No one works for free especially Mercenaries. Trust me, as a former Brevoy Soldier, even the Swordlords of Restov know that or that naive to think otherwise."

Kevros responds to the ranger in Elven as a sign of respect ... "Riri aezeri tia talaes, tia basti air Caelyr." ... so as not to be rude to everyone else, stands, and he holds out his hand to Stalker for a warrior's shake... "Well Met Stalker!"

Kevros will sit down after (or does not) Stalker shakes his hand.

Masota stands and introduces herself to the elf when he makes a mention of it. "My apologies, I meant no disrespect. I think we're all a bit preoccupied with the logistics of this endeavor." She reaches out to shake the man's hand and retakes her seat. She considers Angeus' words for a moment before speaking. "If Angeus here is as skilled as she says then we may only require your services as a guide. Pointing us towards landmarks, locations of interests, that sort of thing. I don't expect anyone to fight for us if they choose not to do so, though I suspect there will be times when you'll need to defend yourself."

"Ah one actually of my own heart!" Stalker grabs his arm and a wide smile spreads across his face. "Talsia serlkai tia faoloi, Thoarai Lorthili Lairthia, clorthia les gorlrili teli lethlialo."

"Well as I see it you may hold me as one of your companions with an even share and even threat of danger or a guide on retainer say 7 gp a week with expenses. Though as a retainer I would protect myself first."

Stalker meets Masota's shake with a slight and wry grin on his face.

Kevros remains standing out of respect and smiles ... "Ai shar sher cali shael ail Shaelai thys thas sai jhyl shyraes. Si talaes eisi shalol thys eir os si mori ail sor jhal" ... Kevros remains standing until "Stalker" sits down.

Kevros turns to Masota and Quince, "What do you two think about hiring "Stalker" as a retainer at first and then update his contract once we know for sure what our income will be? I would hate to go against my word in an official or unofficial contract. Does that agree with your terms Silver ... I mean ... "Stalker"?"

Brother by elf blood, not an immediate brother anyway or maybe family and Kevros does not know. After all, Kevros did just disappear one night.

S'ala re-enters the inn and sees his companions around the table. He bows slightly to each in turn, obsequiesly takes a seat at the table, and watches and listens with interest to the conversation.

Smiling broadly at the elf, Angeus says "Ai't eilol shor sar"

"Ah yes brother, but speaking of manners we should speak so all can understand, I understand strife. Those terms are fine with me, I have all that I need for the journey as of now." That grin grows even wider, hearing those precious words from Angeus.

Masota looks over to Stalker, appraising him. She didn't like the way he smiled at her but she wasn't about to let a display of typical elven rudeness make up her mind for her. Once Kevros makes his suggestion, she nods in agreement. "That seems reasonable enough."

When S'ala takes a seat Masota looks over to him, a bit surprised that he returned. "Welcome back..." she pauses, realizing she still doesn't know the man's name. She decides against asking and instead speaks again, "It shouldn't take much longer."