Lanya will ask around the town if they have heard ny stories pertaining the Greenbelt and the Stolen Lands, especially looking for things the expedition hasn't heard of.
[dice=Gather information]1d20+ 11
The main story right now is that a large mercenary force under the leadership of someone named Maegar Varn passed through here one week ago. Maegar has been charged with setting up a new barony south of the town. Being their last night in 'civilization' the mercenaries got a little carried away in the inn, Maegar himself was attacked by a couple of crazy Varisians and had to kill them. Maegar has paid for the damages to the inn plus more for the expense, so the innkeeper is happy. It's hard to get any info about the Greenbelt because this party is all anyone is talking about.
We mortals are easily tricked and manipulated my Lady," Dante said stepping near to the small female. "But I would remind you that the Gods themselves were created by the Dragons, and that these so called Gods are nearly as easily tricked as we, and they can be killed as we can, and we mortals can be elevated to such a position. It seems to me that godhood is no more than an title to aspire to through great deeds and glory, not a state of being of which we live in fear. Nor spend our lives honoring them, for they may grant their power to mortals for use, but the right to give power is not given in turn, it is taken."
"The gods were created by dragons? I had not heard that one before.
Be that as it may.The power of the gods is real enough. By dedicating my life to Pharasma, my personal power will grow as well. If I were to follow your advice, of not dedicating my life to Pharasma, then my options would be severely limited. I'm strong and fast, but not strong enough and fast enough to make a great warrior.
I don't have the aptitude to be a wizard, nor the innate power to be a sorcerer."
Anastacia gives Dante look through narrow eyes. "When I share Pharasma's gifts with you. They will be freely given. I recommend you don't try to take what is not yours, it will not go well for you."
Anastacia finds the big man a little bit creepy. When Lanya leaves she goes along with her. Even though Dante is in the same squad.
Now that Majda's squad has two horses, she mounts up and offers Wilhelm an arm. "You can ride behind me Wilhelm. If any fighting breaks out, you'll need to dismount, but this should speed up our journey significantly." Turning to her elven and druidic companions she says, "Rowan, if you don't mind, I'd like Dantalion to ride double with you as well. This arrangement is just until we can get everyone mounted."
Close to 18 miles from last nights resting place Madja's squad comes across Fort Serenko, a wooden fortification that marks the boundary of Brevoy. To the south you can see the Kiravoy River joining the Shrike. About a dozen soldiers are stationed here and you can see their mounts stabled in the fort. They are currently taking care of 2 wagons filled with lumber that are obviously heading back towards Restov. You can tell from their stance and joking manner that the loggers are obviously well known to the soldiers. A lieutenant walks up to whichever member of the squad is in front and asks "Excuse me but which one of you is Viktor Stovyet?"
"None of us." Majda says, urging Thunder forward. "We are the advanced scouts for the rest of his party, I am Lady Majda Orlovsky. What can we do for you Lieutenant?"
"Vors correct. I am sorry but you are one of the few nobles here that I do not know even a single shred of information about. This tells me either you don't care for the normal here and there of courtly day to day or you are very very good at hiding yourself in the crowd. I would guess the former. If you would be so kind as to tell me more about yourself it would be helpful... So that I may know how to work with you better."
Felix awaits a reply, but Vor is momentarily interrupted by Venkar's arrival.
"Do not discount the power of a scholar my friend. I have spent my life learning what it is people need and being the one who can help them get it. Knowledge is power, always keep it safe. Now I know about as much of you as I do Vor here, so if the two of you would tell me a little about yourselves, well I would appreciate the help. I wish to integrate this squad and get us functioning as a team in case the worst should befall us sooner than later."
Felix stares at Anastacia, a glint of something hurt and maybe just a little angry flashes a crossed his face. "The Matron does not show us that which is self fulfilling. She teaches that a person must truly know oneself and would no more manipulate a person into doing what she wanted than a mouse would grow wings and challenge dragons for their hordes. There are lessons to be learned with each passing moment and we can only take from them what we can. I learn from my mistakes and that is the greatest form of growth there is." Felix takes a sharp intake of breath as his arms crackle and the smell of charred flesh permeates the area. "Though sometimes I try to rail against destiny. After all, have not the prophesies been unraveling this past century or so. Does not the destiny of a man more fully rest in his hands now than ever before. We need only take up our own destinies, break those threads that hold us to the skein, and plunge forth to find our own way."
Felix turns to Lanya. "M'lady, if it were painful I would not have answered. It is a burden, nothing more. I can no more change what has happened than I can change the color of the moon or the sound of the wind in the trees. Nor would I want to if I could. It is part of me and so shapes me, I would not be me if I had not lost every one and everything dear to me one after another." There is no hint of venom in his speech, only a sense of overwhelming resignation and a depression born of years of suffering. "Life is a long series of heartaches and regrets, punctuated by brief moments of joy. I would no more trade away that pain than I would remove all the pleasant times. Without pain we can not recognize the good things we have. If I had not worked for every thing I had I would not appreciate it so. Too few have to work for their stations in life, and that worries me."
Felix will spend the time before his sleep tracking down Casmir. "Hello cousin. I do apologize for the lateness but I wished to speak to you and did not believe delay would be in our best interest. I am to understand you have been transferred to my command, how does that sit with you?"
"I can think of no reason to stay, only give our men a chance to make any last minute purchases. I do not know if all of them prepared as thoroughly for this journey as I or you."
He looks up at the red-haired enchantress and smiles. His eyes reflect genuine pleasure at seeing her, but also show signs of weariness, ”What man could experience anything but joy seeing such a vision by his bedside.” He gives a quiet chuckle and shakes his head before responding more seriously, ”I feel like a one-armed blindfolded sword juggler when someone in the circus just let the performing bear out of it's cage. There's more to do than there are hours in the day, I probably grew six new grey hairs, there's a line of people waiting for me to stumble,” his eyes gleam as his smile turns fierce, ”and I've never felt so alive in my life. Sweet stars, to think I could have wasted my life in comfort never accomplishing anything. This mission has the potential to truly change things if we succeed. We need to increase our resources quickly, the sooner everyone is mounted and better armed the better I'll feel. Fortunately the biggest personnel problems are personalities. Everyone is quite formidable in their own way, and while our diversity creates some initial challenges I think with time it will become a great strength. No matter how this thing turns out in the end, I'm glad I came.”
”What about you, Lanya? How have you fared, what have you learned, and are you glad you came as well?”
Anastacia does not argue with Felix. She can see the man has had a painful past. There is no reason in causing further discomfort.
"No, sir. You have serious responsibilities. So it's only natural that you would need to vent."
"No, I have had little experience outside the Abby. Beyond the basic teachings of Pharasma, there is little I know. I do intend to learn as much as I can about everything. I don't want to be a burden."
Marick watches everyone talk around the campfire as he eats the roasted venison. After filling his belly it doesn't take long to fall asleep in his bedroll.
The next morning Marick wakes and packs his things ready for another long day of walking. I need to find a horse if we are going to be traveling this much every day, Marick thinks as he stretches his legs and starts the march.
As Ana walks away, Dante watches her go her warning not to take what is his ringing in his ears. He whispers under his breath to no one, "Heh, but Ours is the Right."
He felt slight frustration inside himself at being so ineffectual with his argument, he had to remind himself that she was but a child. As she walked on with the Half Breed, Dante walked through the camp towards the other side taking up his post to wait out his guard shift.
Wilhelm smiles, his brows furrowing slightly in bemusement as he says, "I'd certainly appreciate a mount of some sort if you'd like me to remain on the scouting party. I'm also honored, and perhaps a little surprised, that I was personally requested. I hadn't realized I'd made that much of a positive impression on my cousin."
As Viktor resumes speaking, Wilhelm seems to grow more thoughtful, his lips pursing as he considers the questions posed. After a moment, he smiles slightly and replies, "I appreciate your candor and concern for my honor. It speaks well of you that you would consider my other obligations before asking something of me. As for my reasons for being here, I aim to earn my place in history and a bard's song before we're through. To be immortalized as a shining beacon of Iomedae's light for all the world to celebrate and take heart in; this is my goal." The young man's eyes before you seem to shine as he glances skyward before continuing, "Of course, I don't imagine it will be quite so easy as that, but this a the start of something tremendous and I wouldn't wait and rot in my father's hall while such an undertaking was mine to grasp."
Wilhelm pauses for a moment and shrugs, chuckling, before saying, "Wiser heads then mine have called this a fool's errand, but I suppose that would make me the fool on an errand. Nothing great can happen if there's no risk involved, eh?" Shaking his head as if clearing it, he continues, "And you had another question didn't you. My apologies. I got rather carried away. I'm afraid I know my cousins little better than you do."
"Majda is a complete mystery to me and I've perhaps heard some of Felix's story as family gossip. I can't swear by that though. Something of a tragedy, perhaps? As for Casimir, I believe we've only met a handful of times at best. He's always struck me a clever fellow, quick of wit and all. I've never had a head for numbers like he has and my talk of knights, honor and champions seemed to bore him terribly."
Wilhelm pauses briefly, his smile fading slightly before he looks Viktor steadily in the eye and says, "I hope, Viktor, that you will believe you can trust me. I spoke out seeking leadership before based on a personal oath, but I also spoke an oath saying I would follow your orders while the party backed you. I intend to keep that oath."
Wilhelm strolls through camp towards, content to have attended to his duties. Finding Casimir and Dantalion, he drops his gear in place and nods at the pair before laying out his bedroll. Shortly after he finishes situating his gear, Majda approaches and addresses him and his companions. Smiling genuinely, Wilhelm replies, "I appreciate the kindness, Majda. A coney will make for a feast after our work today. Don't worry too greatly after my welfare though. I'm happy to do my duty, even if it requires a bit of hustle. That said, I think I'll be a drag on the party if we ever need to move faster for a longer period of time. I can move at a clipped pace for a while, but I do have to slow down after a time. Finding me a horse seems like it should be a priority if I'm to stay part of the scouting expedition."
After taking his meal, Wilhelm sits in companionable silence, enjoying the banter around him but feeling tired by the days march. After a short time, he retires until his turn to stand watch.
Wilhelm rises early the following morning and rises, struggling free of his bedroll, to stretch. Feeling slightly sore and tired from the previous day, he takes a moment to groom his beard and freshen himself using his kit before scrubbing his face in water from the nearby stream. Shocked into wakefulness by the frigid water, the young man goes through a series of combat forms learned in training, seeking to stretch before the day's exertions. After completing his preparations, he rejoins his squad and greets them, "Good morning, my doughty companions! I hope this warmer weather continues for a while longer."
After listening to Majda, Wilhelm will carefully clamber into position astride Thunder behind his rider. "I appreciate your sharing space astride this magnificent creature, dear cousin. It will help us move a good deal quicker and I won't be quite so sore at the end of the day. Is it considered typical for the ladies around Mt. Veshka to take up riding as you have? You're a sight better at it than I am, for example."
"None of us." Majda says, urging Thunder forward. "We are the advanced scouts for the rest of his party, I am Lady Majda Orlovsky. What can we do for you Lieutenant?" [/majda]
"I'm Lt. Caminsky. The Captain is leading a patrol down the road right now, but we have recieved orders to render Sir Viktor any assistance required. So, my lady, what can I do to help."
"I think we're fine for the moment. If you could lead us somewhere that's big enough for thirteen people to camp that would be excellent. We should have quite a lead on the other two groups, so I was thinking of doing some hunting while we wait for them to catch up. Are there are any good spots for game near here?" Majda smiles at Caminsky, glad that he's being helpful.
Lanya nods in agreement with Viktor.
"I think the same thing as you, as soon as we work as a team things will go much smoother, both battle and settling these lands. I have talked with Felix about his past, apparently he has a painful memory involving his hands. I'd guess that's why he is as stern as he is."
"I've enjoyed being in the outdoors again, the journey today was really uneventful except for the birds singing and animals crossing the road."
She smiles at Viktor.
"Of course I am glad to be here, nature, adventure, intrigue already and a friend along on the road."
she touches Viktor on his shoulder, "What is there not to like?"
Venkar Nods "I grew in a small village between Medvyed and Orloskvy lands, although I'm not sure in which territory it was officially. I am... was the eldest sibling in a large family. My blood awoke when I was barely into manhood. My village is gone now, well I guess the buildings are there but the people are gone. Raid by gnolls, it's there I found out about blackpowder and guns. I hope to improve these weapons and make them affordable and reliable enough to field to even the common folk so that what happened to my village won't happen again."
A good diplomat he is and not just in skill, morality too. I wonder what will happen if we run into some hard decisions. I guess that will decide things in many peoples eyes if it happens.
Venkar attempts to keep up with the caravan as without a horse he has to keep up a light jog most times. This does little to foul his mood though as he is bright and friendly, and often engages in small conversation with anyone he happens to be walking next to.
"I think we're fine for the moment. If you could lead us somewhere that's big enough for thirteen people to camp that would be excellent. We should have quite a lead on the other two groups, so I was thinking of doing some hunting while we wait for them to catch up. Are there are any good spots for game near here?" Majda smiles at Caminsky, glad that he's being helpful.
Lt. Caminsky looks towards the fort. "Well the Captain has 10 of our men with him at the present so there would be plenty of room in the bunkhouse where there is a fire. It wouldn't be segregated, but if my lady wishes I will sleep with my men tonight and you are welcome to my quarters. Otherwise I'm afraid you'd need to sleep outdoors. As for game it depends on what you wish. Small game abounds everywhere but just over that ridge" He points to a small ridge just north of the fort. "You'll find a stream, go north up the stream about a mile and the area is lousy with elk. Unfortunately there are alot of boars up there too, so I would advise caution."
Venkar takes his spear and canteen over the ridge to fill up his canteen before setting his bedroll on the ridge to keep an eye out.
Vors smiles at Felix' analysis. The smile is a bit strained as it hit closer to home than expected. "Well not much of a court back in the Golushkin," he jokes no sounding that sincere and continues: "I did live in the largest of courts." After a pause that was just half a second to long he responds to the second part of the question: "I'll lend you my arm and my sword," now smiling more brightly and pads his sword. "More to the point I have some experience with sword fighting, but I must say I haven't seen much combat." Giving his leader a little time to absorb what he just said, he changes diplomatic pace and asks: "I beg your pardon my lord, but might I inquire just how skilled you are in the art of war?"
Viktor frowns slightly when she mentions Felix but looks thoughtful as he hears her out, "So those bandages cover a long term hurt then. Injuries such as that can change a man, turn him bitter. Perhaps I have been judging him too harshly. He is difficult to get along with, but perhaps if we show him patience, trust will come in time."
He is quiet for a moment when she touches his shoulder. He reaches his hand up to briefly meet her fingers. He opens his mouth for a moment then shuts it. His smile returns to his face and he pats her hand and nods, "Well then, let's take our posts. My bedroll is calling and if I tarry too long here I may answer her plea." He gives a half wave, half salute and walks off to find a good vantage point.
Viktor is feeling more eager each day. Fort Serenko is one of the last bastions of civilization on their path to the Stolen lands. As the sun rises higher in the sky he begins whistling a tune. It is a familiar melody that is used in a few different well known drinking songs. As he walks he periodically thumps his spear haft to the road in beat with the tune.
Dante strolls along next to Viktor, his thoughtful moodiness of the previous evening left behind him. As Viktor begins to hum, Dante, recognizing the song, bursts out with a hearty voice singing it as a marching tune, pounding his guantleted hand against his shield in time with Viktor's spear thumps.
After her morning ritual of washing herself and casting Prestidigitation to clean up her clothes Lanya is all set to go.
She walks along humming the same tune, to many of her comrades's surprise she knows the tune well.
Though she is stylishly dressed, from a distance she looks like a common traveler, walking stick in hand and a sling at her waist. When one would look at her face it is obvious she has led a life inside for the past years, her hair and eyes bring out more colour, but her skin is pretty pale compared to the others.
Viktor keeps the beat up while he listens appreciatively to Dante's marching song.
I've not heard this version. They must teach it at the Academy.
After hearing the song cycle through once when it begins again he joins his clear baritone with Dante's deeper bass their thumps keeping rhythm.
Around THUMP her hair THUMP she wore a yellow ribbon THUMP
She wore it in the spring time, never failing every day
And if THUMP you asked THUMP her why the heck she wore it THUMP
She’d say she wore it for her soldier who was far, far away
Far away THUMP THUMP
Far away THUMP THUMP
She wore it for her soldier who was far, far away
Around THUMP the block THUMP she pushed a baby carriage THUMP
She pushed it in the spring time, never failing every day
And if THUMP you asked THUMP her why the heck she pushed it THUMP
She’d say she pushed it for her soldier who was far, far away
Far away THUMP THUMP
Far away THUMP THUMP
She pushed it for her soldier who was far, far away
Behind THUMP the door, THUMP her daddy kept a greataxe THUMP
He kept it in the spring time, never failing every day
And if THUMP you asked THUMP him why the heck he kept it THUMP
He’d say he kept it for that soldier who was far, far away
Far away THUMP THUMP
Far away THUMP THUMP
He kept it for that soldier who was far, far away
Around THUMP his grave THUMP she laid the pretty flowers THUMP
She laid them in the spring time, never failing every day
And if THUMP you asked THUMP her why the heck she laid them THUMP
She’d say she laid them for her soldier who was far, far away
Far away THUMP THUMP
Far away THUMP THUMP
She laid them for her soldier who was far, far away
Everyone meets up a Fort Serenko. Lt. Caminsky meets with Viktor for about an hour in the Captain's Office. If someone in Majda's group can make a DC 25 Survival check, they can bring in an elk and everyone eats well that night. The Lt. offers his quarters to the women in the group, they'll bring in some more cots if neccessary. PC's need to decide where they are sleeping. Inside Ft. Serenko is warm but crowded. Outside Ft. Serenko is cold but serene. Depending on where you sleep you can make Diplomacy or K/Local checks to talk with those around you.
INSIDE THE FORT
OUTSIDE THE FORT
You camp near the loggers who are waiting until morning to leave the Fort.
AND FOR VIKTOR AND ANY THAT HE CHOOSES TO MEET WITH HIM AND LT CAMINSKY
Venkar chats around the fort for an hour or so before wandering off outside, unless called he will bunk down with the loggers and tell tall tales.
"So there he was his beard tangled up in his axe, evil treants all around and Olaf the ever unlucky slipped on a spot of mud, tumbling end over end down the entire hill. When he came to all the treants had died from his flailing axe!"
Lanya will take up the offer of Lt Caminsky and use his quarters, hopefully together with Majda and Anatascia.
In the evening she will go and chat with the soldiers stationed at the fort.
He scratches his roughened chin. I need a shave.
"What kind of bandit activity do you see near here? I don't expect it to get too bad until we cross the border, but what have you seen it to be like this time of year? Also, does your fort have any bathing facilities, or is there a clean water source nearby which can be utilized as such?"
Viktor chooses to sleep under the stars.
Later that evening after speaking with the locals Viktor asks Felix to accompany him to Majda's quarters for a meeting.
"Appears the Trading Post we're heading to has been getting fleeced regularly. Some bandits have been ripping them off at the first of each month. They've met no resistance so far, so I'd imagine they'll be there again in a few days. What say we make sure this time it doesn't go so smoothly for them?" He looks at his lieutenants with a fierce smile.
Rowan stables his horse and gives him some feed and brushes him down. As soon as Sleip is well-fed and content Rowan whistles for Argos and they run off together. Rowan stops just long enough to ask a soldier to borrow a longbow for the hunt, being much better suited for larger game than his sling, before disappearing to the North.
"Well Rowan you had better luck than I hunting."
"Erastil blesses us this evening. We have another good dinner to share with each other. Eating, drinking, talking with each other, and sharing experiences. That's how bonds are made and communities formed. So far it has been an excellent start to this adventure, and I'm excited for what new experiences tomorrow may bring."
"I am sorry to hear that Venkar, I know the pain of losing the whole of your line only too well. As to Vors question of my competence in battle I will not lie. I have very little, I am better at patching up the wounded than fighting battle. Though I can call up the flames that originally burned my arms if need be. It has worked well against wolves and the like, and I am sure it will burn the flesh off a man." Felix looks over his squad,. Such a motley crew we have here. "Rowan, Venkar, Marik, and Vors. I swear to you this, you do right by me and I will do right by you. You support me in getting things done right, and I will make sure you are protected from the machinations of any who test us as long as it is in my power."
Edit:
Felix will be staying in the fort.
Taking Ten on the Diplomacy check.
Anastacia plods along, weighed down by her heavy pack and armor. The song that Dante and Viktor sing does seem to make the miles pass easier.
She is more than happy to share the Lieutenant's offer of his quarters. She packs water and heats it so she and the other ladies can get cleaned up. After this is accomplished, she heads out into the fort to mingle with the folk who live there.
In the evening, after her devotions to Pharasma, Anastacia smiles at Lanya. "You and Viktor seem to get along very well. Is he your sweetheart?" She hopes the question is not too forward, but it certainly is a topic of interest.
Marick nods, "Fair enough, I will stand with you and we will succeed in this venture."
Marick quickly heads for his bedroll in the fort after the first two conversations he tries to start almost end up in a fight.
Casimir mostly seems to whistle lightly to some other tune while the men are singing, but turns to Venkar when he approaches. Listening keenly, he can only smile, and then nod.
"I expect we'll do well in our work together. I always wondered about how Alkenstar manages to be a presence, though their weaponry is impressive, after all. Propelling a piece of metal at those velocities..." He pauses a moment, then sighs.
"The travel is fair, it's nothing unusual just yet. We're a large force, and few will decide we're fair game without a formation of men behind them. That being said, there's plenty I'd rather have changed than this line-up we have here. It's as if arrogance defines leadership here, or perhaps how loudly you talk up your claims," he says with a bit of a jest - but how true that jest is, is questionable at best.
As he and the Talon approach the fort, he commands his machine to stand off to the side. For a small time, he moves to speak with some men inside, and then decides to move to the loggers - where he and Talon will try to help out as best as they can, while they're there, and eventually retires to a bed outside with the logging crew.
Viktor listens to the Lieutenant attentively then nods, "I understand the need for discretion. What constitutes verification? Do we need to bring dead bandits all the way back to this Fort or is there a more sensible arrangement in place for us afield? Do you ever sent patrols as far out as Oleg's Trading Post? Perhaps we can arrange a periodic report there."
"Well, the Captain may have a better idea, but I'm good with you just keeping the heads of any killed in battle and having public executions of those you capture. I or one of my men can make periodic visits to wherever you choose to make your base of operations. Our patrols stay out for about a week, riding three days down the road and then three days back. The Captain is on his way back so you'll probably meet him."
He scratches his roughened chin. I need a shave."What kind of bandit activity do you see near here? I don't expect it to get too bad until we cross the border, but what have you seen it to be like this time of year? Also, does your fort have any bathing facilities, or is there a clean water source nearby which can be utilized as such?"
"Actually it's been pretty bad lately. Normally there is very little bandit activity in the winter, but this winter they have been pretty active and operating in large numbers. We've had to increase the size of our patrols. If we need a bath there's a swimming hole in the river."
"Thank you for the water, it is much appreciated." Lanya says in thanks to the hot water Anastacia seemed to think off.
She is just done with washing her hair and face as Anastacia asks her the prying question. Her breath stocks as she searches for a towel, as she dries her head she answers with a stoic face.
"My sweetheart? I guess it's understandable for you to ask, but no I am not. At least for my part he is just a good friend, I can't speak for him of course."
She shakes her hair loose and casts a Prestidigitation spell to get her hair stylized again.
"Even if it were the other way around Anastacia, it is probably for the best now, things might always change. You know Majda's story right? She was born with a bad foot. I was born with something as well, though it hasn't really manifested itself. It is the reason why magic comes naturally to sorcerers, an innate gift in our bloodline. I keep my lineage a secret as long as I can, as I don't know what would happen in the events to come."
"This is what I tried to get an answer to, I know what decides my fate, but not how it will. You can keep this a secret right?"
She looks with solemn eyes at Anastacia
Dante shadows Viktor as he talks to the Lt. interjecting on their conversation about bounty proof, shaking his head "Come now lads, whole heads? Surely only a finger ear or nose is necessary." he says bluntly .
After taking his leave he sits at a table and takes out his ink pen and vial along with stacks of paper. Lighting the table with several candles, he begins to write several letters. After about an hour, he writes a name on the front of each of the three, melts some wax to seal them and marks it with his signet ring.
"Well that's often the way it might seem at first but we listen to the loud folk for a reason, We let them lead first for similar reasons. If the loud folk fail then leadership falls to those who have proven themselves in times of crisis. Also letting the loud folk run up to the front is a good way to keep enemy attention off of people like you and me."
Dante shadows Viktor as he talks to the Lt. interjecting on their conversation about bounty proof, shaking his head "Come now lads, whole heads? Surely only a finger ear or nose is necessary." he says bluntly .
After taking his leave he sits at a table and takes out his ink pen and vial along with stacks of paper. Lighting the table with several candles, he begins to write several letters. After about an hour, he writes a name on the front of each of the three, melts some wax to seal them and marks it with his signet ring.
The Lt. answers. "In the past we've mounted the heads we've paid bount for on a pike to discourage banditry. For my part the right ear or a nose would be sufficient."
"I was just curious. You two would make a cute couple." Anastacia's green eyes twinkle with harmless mischief.
Then she grows serious. "Yes, your secret is safe. I don't really know much about sorcerers, or their magic. I wish I could be of more help. I do believe in you though. I think you can figure out a way to decide your own destiny. And if there is ever anything I can do to help, don't be hesitant to ask. I have some access to powers that can ward off evil."
Felix looks noticeably disturbed by the discrepancies between bounties. "That is ridiculous. You men put yourselves through the same trouble to bring in those bounties as we. It is a injustice for you not to make the same wage for the same work." Felix wheels around on Viktor, conviction strongly resonant in his voice. "We do not need as much as all that. The difference is sixty coins, surely we can part with at least twenty per bounty to show our support for the good lieutenant and his men. Their defense of this land is just as important as ours after all."
Listening to Felix's point he can sense the good nature in the man's outrage. "Lord Felix, I understand your concern, and while I leave the final choice to Lord Viktor, I must point out that there is no injustice here. We have a mission that needs funding, and these men are professional soldiers, they are paid a fair wage and the bounty is extra. No disrespect to the Lt. but you're a Noble, surely you understand the cost of leadership, These men do not suffer based on receiving a lesser bounty and in fact if offered a higher one, may get greedy and adapt a more reckless stance towards the bandits, resulting in the higher probability of death for our men at arms. I would advise, in spite of your soft heart, to leave things as they lie." Dante's tone is earnest and not insulting, he speaks from his years as a soldier and commander.
Casimir lifts an arm in gentle welcome, as though to be kind to Felix in ways he may have shown earlier in other manners. He smiles, and nods if only to confirm most of what Felix has said.
"Suits me no better than being under our other relative. In some ways, there's a bit of disfavor in the way things have been handled, but nothing a few nights won't cure - hopefully." He winks lightly here.
"No, I have no direct problem, but I fear without an acute mind at the front, they will no doubt find obstacles that cannot be passed without delaying us. They opt for haste, where patience may rule, as well. I suppose this is where I ask the same of you - how are you of this change?"
Casimir grins at the statements made, as though pleased by the responses.
"As long as they don't fashion themselves as martyrs, I'm perfectly fine with them distracting the enemy. I'll be sure to show my capabilities, when I find the opportunities. Just you wait, Venkar - no doubt we'll prevail with minds like ours!"
Majda will seek out Viktor after having spent some time talking with Big John and his sons. "Good evening Viktor. I just thought I should tell that the loggers are telling tales of heavy bandit activity. It seems the bandits are being organized from somewhere out near Tuskwater Lake."
After listening to his response she continues, "Things worked out great with Rowan today. I really like him, and we were able to move quickly by doubling up on the mounts. Doing that each day should give us plenty of time to keep hunting for the group."
Wilhelm wiles away the long hours of riding by keeping watch on the surrounding area and performing what reflection on Iomedae's teachings that he's able. Shortly after the scouting party leaves Nivakta's Crossing, he asks Madja, "It's not my intention to pry, Majda. I may be prying right now anyway, so feel free to hit me if I am. That said, why leave the comfort of your home for small villages and wilderness like this? For my own part, I desire adventure, glory and a chance to earn a real place in history. There will be no fading into obscurity for this Orlovsky. Of that I am most certain."
Wilhelm slides off Thunder's back as Madja approaches the guard Lieutenant. No need to undermine her authority or give the wrong impression. As Majda and the guard finish speaking, Wilhelm taps Majda on the knee and says, "I think I'll enjoy the hospitality of the barracks this evening. As for hunting, I think I will do more harm by going with you than if I simply stayed away. My armor makes stealth a rather difficult and I'm a shoddy hunter at best anyway. I'll speak to the guards and perhaps the loggers to see what I might be able to learn from them."
After excusing himself, he wanders over to speak with the loggers and, later in the evening, the guards. The friendly and boisterous young noble manages to ingratiate himself with Lt. Caminsky. By providing a sympathetic ear, he manages to learn quite a bit about the possible situation at Oleg's.
After the rest of his party returns from hunting, Wilhelm wanders over to where Dantalion and Rowan are speaking and says, "I'm glad that you'll be joining us from now on Rowan, if this is any indication of your ability to hunt. With all my armor, I'd scare off all the game for miles. It seems that shouldn't be a problem with two masters of the craft like you two, eh?"
Later that evening, after the rest of the party has arrived, Wilhelm seeks out Viktor and says, "Hey bossman! I thought it important for you to know. I was talking with the good Lieutenant and this trading post we're going to - Oleg's, is it? - may be getting shook down on a regular basis by these bandits we're hunting. Least that's what Caminsky was saying, despite what he says is the captain's foolish notion about Oleg being in line with the bandits. They squeeze just hard enough for him to get by and it makes it hard to tell what's really going on."
The young noble shrugs uncomfortably and then continues, "Seems to me that the Lieutenant has a good head on his shoulders so I'd be inclined to trust him, you know? What's more, the bandits seem to be pretty well organized. They had to double the size of the patrols to handle them safely. Not sure what you know about all this, but it seems important. I thought it best to relay what I learned."
** spoiler omitted **...
"No Wilhelm, I am unique amongst the ladies of Choral Hold. Most of them find having two good legs limits them to the bedchamber, embroidering tapestries and gossiping." Majda's reply is clearly somewhat sarcastic, but with a playful tone as well.
Wilhelm wiles away the long hours of riding by keeping watch on the surrounding area and performing what reflection on Iomedae's teachings that he's able. Shortly after the scouting party leaves Nivakta's Crossing, he asks Madja, "It's not my intention to pry, Majda. I may be prying right now anyway, so feel free to hit me if I am. That said, why leave the comfort of your home for small villages and wilderness like this? For my own part, I desire adventure, glory and a chance to earn a real place in history. There will be no fading into obscurity for this Orlovsky. Of that I am most certain."
"My desires are similar. I have been unappreciated my whole life. Instead of being born a male heir I had the audacity to have a vagina. On top of it, I was a cripple, and then later some kind of nature-witch heathen. At least, if you were to take my parent's view on the subject." Madja's voice is a little bitter, but she smiles and continues. "I decided to see what I could accomplish on my own. To prove myself and my skills in the real world, undeniably. I am most comfortable astride Thunder, with a clear purpose at hand, not sitting at home rotting away into nothing. So that is why I left."
She hesitates before commenting further, "It may be foolish of me, but I also have a desire to establish a land where every man can prosper based on his or her own labor. Where everyone is master of themselves, and only themselves. I greatly admire Andoran and that regard. They have blazed the trail for all to follow. I hope also to bring balance with nature and they fey of the region. Could we not ally with them like the elves often do, and both benefit from our association?"
Majda nods when Wilhelm calls off the hunting. After they return she passes him on her way to set up a campsite for her and thunder and to talk with the loggers.
Felix smiles at his cousin. "One competent man is about as good as another at this point. I have had a man of nature taken from me and a man of civilization given in his stead. Only time will tell who is better suited to what task, but I consider it a fair trade. As for our leaders..." Felix gestures in the general direction of the rest of the camp and sighs. "I am of the opinion that only time may tell how acute their minds are as well. At least we have another cousin in charge of the scouting party." Felix smiles again and chuckles."And you know if the boy makes a mistake, well public opinion can be a fickle thing."
It isn't like me to pry or question good leadership, but I would like to know more about you, mi'lady. I wasn't born with a silver tongue or noble blood like you and your cousins. I'd like to know your motives for coming out here. Your family's too if you know what they are... I don't mean to be rude or disrespectful, I'm just a straight forward kind of man trying to figure out where everyone stands. Rowan watches her intently, trying to get a gauge of what her reaction is to his questions.
It is Erastil's blessing that we get to enjoy another fine feast with each other. Good portents for what is to come, I believe. In these wild parts, stealth isn't so much important as patience is. Hopefully your armor will scare off the bandits in this area more than the game. Rowan finishes with a chuckle.
Wilhelm, you seem to be a good man. What brings you out to these wild lands?
It isn't like me to pry or question good leadership, but I would like to know more about you, mi'lady. I wasn't born with a silver tongue or noble blood like you and your cousins. I'd like to know your motives for coming out here. Your family's too if you know what they are... I don't mean to be rude or disrespectful, I'm just a straight forward kind of man trying to figure out where everyone stands. Rowan watches her intently, trying to get a gauge of what her reaction is to his questions.
It is Erastil's blessing that we get to enjoy another fine feast with each other. Good portents for what is to come, I believe. In these wild parts, stealth isn't so much important as patience is. Hopefully your armor will scare off the bandits in this area more than the game. Rowan finishes with a chuckle.
Wilhelm, you seem to be a good man. What brings you out to these wild lands?
"I was telling Wilhelm earlier that I intend to set up a land where each person is free to earn the rewards of their own labor. I find Andoran very inspiring. I also hope to form some form of accord with the fey of the stolen lands. I hope we can ally with them, and benefit from one another rather than fight. What about you Rowan?"
I'm on a journey in service to Erastil. To gain knowledge and wisdom of his ways so that one day I may assume the role of Elder for my village. Erastil has warned me through visions and dreams that a natural disaster is looming in the future of the village and has guided me here to find new lands for them to settle.
His eyes look sad and distant as he thinks of home. He shakes it away though and sets himself on the tasks before him.
I'd very much like to keep an alliance with the fey and to respect the balance of nature in these lands. And having a colony where a man or woman can work hard and enjoy the fruits of their labor is very admirable. I'll do what I can to help make that a reality.
"I'm glad we're in agreement Rowan, very glad. You are an amazing tracker by the way. I feel a bit superfluous with you around." Majda smiles warmly as she admires Rowan.