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Seeing the coming influx of refugees and the disaster, Garith takes Irabeth's words to heart. He moves down to find those in charge of the restoration, "Well met. Among the Queen's Vanguard are a large number of survivors. There will likely be many hands to help with the restoration efforts, but just as many people needing housing and food. They will be here tonight so I would assist in the efforts to make ready for them."
Garith would help oversee labor and organization of refugee housing if necessary, as well as get in there and work himself, doing heavy lifting and encouraging the workers as they make ready for the new arrivals.
Once things are well in hand, soon before the Vanguard is due to arrive, Garith gets himself ready. He dons his armor and goes to where the army still in Kenebras is gathering. He'll help get the army formed up in ranks to make a strong showing for the incoming refugees and the queen's men.
Pakak moves to meet the refugees, telling them which buildings are still safe and secure
"Avoid that gray tower, it looks solid, but the base is ready to give in on the south side.... now that former house is gone, but the basement is huge and still intact. Easy to adapt"
And he aids them in making them more so
He aids one older dwarf woman he recognizes, "Betha Stonebrow? Where are the sons of your clan? They should be here to help you..."
Then he realizes as he crunches the numbers, and looks at the white haired woman's eyes. The gaze full of pain.
"My clan lives on, Pakak," She says with quiet strength, "But not, I fear, in Mendev. My sons and grandsons covered our journey, and they paid for it."
"Words will not do," Pakak responds after a moment, "But I know they are in Torag's great hall now. Much maybe called upon my friends and I, but while I'm here I'll try to help you and any other of your clan, if you'll allow me the honor of doing so?"
The old woman pats him on his bearded cheek, "You are a good youngster, Ironwall. Fear not for me. I will endure. I am fading into the past. You wish to help me? Make sure there is a future here for our people." She raises a brow at some of the female dwarves near him, who are now cleaning, and helping refugees as well, but glance at him now and then,"Mmm... well, of course."
Pakak glances over again at the girls, then back "Of course what?"
The old woman shakes her head, and waves him off moving on towards what remains of the stonebrow housing, "And you're normally such a BRIGHT boy too." She tuts.
Leaving Pakak very perplexed but he has little time for the confusion, and throws himself back into his work.
Eventually as time wears on everyone and preparations are made the day starts coming to an end. Garith has gathered about 30 men to present an honor guard, all that is available and not on duty either as lookouts or trying to rebuild the defenses. Maelchar works at clearing the Heart for the coming ensemble. Reiko walks the edge of the city looking for threats while Zeriax finishes his instructions with the 2 men but not Anevia. Pakak makes quite a show of himself helping the returning citizens as the few dwarven maidens start to congregate where ever he is located. Nothing overt is said or done, but Pakak almost can feel his ears getting red and its not from the sun.
As evening starts to come the vanguard of the army reaches the gates and the queen is escorted into the city. Garith can see that she walks her horse in through the gates and dismounts handing the reigns to a squire to take care of. On foot she slowly walks through the city streets following the honor guard set up for her. She does not say a single word as she takes everything in but does nod to the people that she passes. Only the barest flicker of ?despair, sorrow, doubt, something else? flashes across her eyes. Her eyes continually search each alcove and recess looking for threats foreign, domestic, humanoid or demon. She has on a suit of platemail armor and a heavy steel shield is attached to her left forearm. Over the platemail is a cloak hanging down to 2 inches above the ground. Where the cloak fastens on to her shoulders you see a set of 6 medals that she has earned in the crusades. On her side is a magnificent longsword that you can tell by the way she walks she is well accustomed to it. On her back is a quiver with a pearl white longbow.
It takes her almost 2 hours to reach the Heart so methodical is her approach. You begin to assume that part of her walk was to give everyone a chance to see that the Queen has indeed arrived. This is not vanity as you realize that the civilians and crusaders all stand straighter and work more diligently as she approaches. Indeed this walk was designed and orchestrated by her to let the people know that help was here and that their sacrifices and loss would not be forgotten. When she finally does reach the Heart she disappears with 4 of her advisors to talk to Irabeth alone. The night passes without another sight of her leaving you all wondering what exactly is going on.
As the Queen approaches the Heart, Zeriax stands watching crosslegged from atop a ruined building.
He takes note of the regal aura all about the woman, the sheer power that seems to emanate from her presence, and the effect it has in all those around her - Definitely someone able to galvanize the people's will around her - the monk ponders.
Coming down from his perch some time later, he rejoins his companions to rest for the night.
Irabeth has much to tell her Grace. Hopefully, come morning the queen will have a plan for what to do in this situation. garith says. He's pensive but with the atypical of this holy force, he is encouraged and enthused!
There is at least some how of recovery from this
"Surely after what has happened with us, there must be something more we can do to assist - I hope it is so" - he adds to Garith's comment.
Reiko hears of the Queen's personal reconnaissance and thinks well of her Majesty's intellect for it. It was an adept political and tactical move. The ronin avoids reading into the Queen's long absence but she can't help but wonder if her allies will be called before the Queen at some point - for debriefing, assignment, or (well deserved) praise. Which invariably leads Reiko to consider whether she might be required to make an appearance as well. As a disgraced samurai, it would be... awkward.
Since speculation is pointless, Reiko does the only thing she can - her duty.
At dawn you each receive a summons from the queen 'requesting' your presence at the Heart, equipment optional.
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Garith will ready himself quickly, although he takes a few extra minutes to shave and try to adjust his fiine garment, not sure how to wear such a thing. Athough he's not used to such finery and would be more comfortable in armor, he dresses himself for an audience with the queen. Even so, he does keep his wooden shield slung over his back, not feeling himself without one, and has Irabeth's fine blade at his side in formal fashion.
Reiko had suspected she would have to greet the Queen at some point, so she'd made sure her best clothes were spotless and waiting. She receives the summons stoicly and begins dressing. She takes the time to brush her hair and push it into a bun secured with a set of jade-tipped Kanzashi (hair sticks) in a style popular among the powerful in Xa Hoi. She even sparingly applies makeup trying to lighten her skin to a shade that didn't scream of her peasant upbringing. The odious task done, she glances at herself in a small mirror and quickly tosses it down - lipstick on a tortoise, but it is the best I can do.
Reiko dons her best kimono, a gift from her dead Daimyo. It is rich black silk trimmed with grey at the sleeves and tastefully covered with a motif of delicate cranes and dragons embroidered in fine silver thread. She ties her obi in a traditional style and slips into her geta. She grabs the black lacquered sheath that now holds Radiance and heads toward the Heart.
Maelchar will dress in his best clothes, recovered from the remains of the Zeru household over the past two weeks. Though the family is mysteriously absent, which he found distressing and sad, he did find what he personally had left behind, which included his fine clothing for formal affairs.
Black silk shirt tucked neatly into black leather trews are the basics he wears, though he forgoes any fanciful frills. He does wear his new cloak however. He ties back his silver-white hair with a black silk tie to keep it under control. As his one real concession to finery, he wears a gold ring with a large blood red stone and another emblazoned with the Zeru crest. Though he is not truly a member of the family, he is the only one here to represent them in their absence, and he wears it for them.
He leaves armor and weapons behind, knowing if weapons are needed, he can always make his own. Carried with him, though not openly displayed are his two ioun stones and his scale of Terendelev. As he approaches the Heart, he comforts himself with a gentle touch to the scale, knowing that it is with him reassures him that with Iomedae's wisdom to guide him, he won't make an utter fool of himself during this audience.
When he meets up with the others before their audience with the Queen, he flashes them all a quick smile, though it is obviously a nervous one.
Pakak is at first surprised by the summons, but then realizes it is only practical. After all, they are eye witnesses to truly strange and horrific events the like of which the Queen may wish to hear of directly. So it is his manages to gather a wardrobe he hopes will be decent enough not to shame his clan's image.
So he wears a cloak of burnt umber with gold etchings, a silk shirt of black, and leather leggings of fine supple make with matching boots. Shieldback's has been bathed and his shell is at a high shine.
Zeriax is ready from the moment they are summoned to the Queen's presence - the humble monk is dressed in plain travelling clothes and remains so. His bow rests casually across his back as always, and the monk does not feel the need to part with it.
He feels the enthusiasm in the air, and confirms his sensation when he notices the care given to their attire by his companions - "Well met friends" - he nods with a smile, genuinely happy to be reunited with them, after their respective options and tasks had absorbed most of the last two weeks - "Today will be an important day" - he adds - "I am happy to share it with all of you"
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Samantha is a bit surprised that of all the fine folk in Kenabaras she is being summoned to the queen. However she assumes this due to the fact that she had been associating with such noble folk as Sir Garith and witnessed what might be considered a great Blessing of Iomedae.
Her first instinct is to wear her nicest silken dress but considering that this queen seems to be rather martial decides against it and comes wearing her armor as should a true warrior priestess.
As everyone gets ready for the queen in their own way thoughts turn to why us, why now? Is it just a report of what happened in the Grey Garrison. Regardless the summons must be met for the queen can not be kept waiting. You are escorted to the Heart where the transformations that were being done the day before have continued on throught the night. The great room was cleared of all the tables save for 2 on the Far East end of the building on either side of a quickly made dais. Normally not one to worry about presentation in such a war torn situation it strikes you all a bit odd until you realize it has a tactical purpose as well. It allows the Queen to have an unobstructed view of the entrance.
At the two tables you see about 8 people sitting their, 4 per table. The group in the right talks softly among themselves while those on the left look around searching faces for what may be coming. Flanking the room is a group of the paladins you saw ride in the day before, 10 per side in full gear.
Lead to the dais the queen motions for you to approach closer. Chairs are brought for you to sit as the queen takes a seat as well. As she opens her mouth to speak, everyone else falls silent to listen to the weighty words of her highness.
While there are some narrow-minded souls among the crusade who blame you for the destruction of the wardstone border, I do not begrudge you for what you did. Far from it. From the sound of it, you saved entire legions of crusaders from a most vile fate by preventing Vorlesh from transforming them, and the blast of energy gave us the time we needed to regroup and prepare for what will certainly come next. But you understand the implications of what you’ve done, I’m sure—the wardstones are gone, but Iomedae has seen fit that you will be their replacement. I can think of no other reason that would explain why their power would have settled in your bodies and souls and didn’t merely fade into the ether. In time, the demons will regroup and reorganize—we can trust their inherent chaos to make this period of regrouping longer than it otherwise would take, but we shouldn’t underestimate them. They’ll be back soon enough. Already I’ve had reports from along the front lines that small groups of demons are attacking fortifications and settlements along the southern border.
But what intrigues me most is news from several reliable sources that as our fiendish enemies are starting to mass in the southern reaches along the Riftshadow within the Worldwound, they have left several of their northern lairs relatively unprotected. In particular, the fiend Aponavicius has taken the bulk of her army from Drezen, leaving it only moderately protected as she joins with the Storm King in Iz to, no doubt, plot greater attacks on larger targets like Nerosyan, Karcau, and beyond. The time is right to strike into their territory. Drezen was the first of our cities to fall after the First Crusade, and we lost more than our kin and our pride that day. We lost the Sword of Valor, a magical banner carried by the Inheritor herself during the Shining Crusade. If Drezen could be retaken—if the Sword of Valor could once again be held by the crusade... well, I trust I don’t need to explain how well that would affect morale. But with the imminent attacks along the border, I cannot spare many to lead an assault on Drezen. And even if I could, a large army attacking the city would only draw Aponavicius back to defend the place. The obvious tactic is to send in a group of capable heroes with a modest but well-trained army to strike now, while the proverbial iron is hot. And this is why I’ve sought you out. If you can retake Drezen and reclaim the Sword of Valor, not only will you silence the fools who would brand you traitors for destroying the wardstone, but more importantly, you would bolster the entire war effort with your heroism. And I fear we need all the bolstering we can get!
The queen sits back resting while she can while you digest the information presented to you. She does look to you to see if you have any questions.
Reiko bridles at the accusation that they had betrayed the cause by destroying the wardstones but quickly schools her features to neutrality. While she listens to the Queen, she surreptitiously watches the people at the two tables, hunting for any subtle sign of who among her councilors may think of them as traitors. Best to know all our enemies - demon or not.
She considers the Queen's words for a time, then says, "I thank you for your faith in us, Your Majesty... Is there a map of Drezen as it was? Do we know where the Sword of Valor was stored in those days... and do you have any intelligence on where the demons may hold it now?"
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Garith nods as we are told there are some that are suspicious of the party. Of course we shall have detractors, I am only glad that the queen and her most trusted are not among them. I wonder if my kin are backing me, or if they too are the target of these aspersions as they have long been less than exemplary crusaders as a whole. I would not be surprised if they too are casting them to distance themselves from me. Heh. Garith's naivete allowing him not to dwell too much on this. It is the situation in Drezen that captures the Paladin's attention.
It is after a deep bow that Garith speaks, "Your Majesty, I am most honored to have your confidence in this. Along with the powers with which we have been blessed, visions of the past also came upon us. One such vision was of Stauton Vhane and his betrayal, and now to have the opportunity to recover the city."
Then the soldier takes over, occupied with tactical options, and excited to be in the presence of such a great leader, he partially wants to show competence. "What sort of force are you able to send with us? And how long would we have with the men to prepare for the campaign" he asks, mind buzzing with formation and romantic notions of battle of a recruit, yet tempered by someone who's seen real combat and the horror of their foes.
Pakak's eyes flare at hearing of the accusations How could anyone be so idiotic not to see... he sets his jaw as the others ask questions.
"A shield that cuts its bearer instead of protecting him is no longer a shield, your majesty," Pakak states, letting a side glance linger over the tables before returning to her, "Would that some had the sense to see that as you do. More news of Aponavicius and her ways will perhaps let us know how she sets her forces even in her absence. Who are her lieutenants that will be in charge while she is away? Do we know such?"
Maelchar remains silently by his friends... thoughts churn through his brain at a heady pace though. Some folk think we are traitors for destroying the wardstone? I can see that... But it had to be done, and they don't see that. We have a duty now, infused with the power of the stone, to BE the stone and act in its place. Garith will make a fine army commander, I think.... We are honored to be entrusted with this task by the Queen... does she know how green we are? I hope we can live up to the faith she has put in us.
He does his best not to let any of his inward turmoil to show on his face, keeping his eyes steadily on the Queen and his expression impassive.
Reiko bridles at the accusation that they had betrayed the cause by destroying the wardstones but quickly schools her features to neutrality. While she listens to the Queen, she surreptitiously watches the people at the two tables, hunting for any subtle sign of who among her councilors may think of them as traitors. Best to know all our enemies - demon or not.
She considers the Queen's words for a time, then says, "I thank you for your faith in us, Your Majesty... Is there a map of Drezen as it was? Do we know where the Sword of Valor was stored in those days... and do you have any intelligence on where the demons may hold it now?"
[dice=Bluff (cover reaction and observation)]1d20+4
[dice=Sense Motive (ferret out who thinks we are traitors)]1d20+7
The queen notices your eyes as waves away your concerns Reiko. After long deliberations and investigation through divination we all agree that you path was the right choice. It is others who may not know everything but that you destroyed the only protection that has withstood the onslaught of the demons for so long that my accuse you. Be on your guard for them but also remember that they are deceived by the demons. Work with them if possible to see the truth of the matter and stay your hand if possible in striking them down.
The queen smiles at your questions as they are well put and insightful. As for a direct map of the complex of Drezen I do not have one. What I do have is someone to accompany you though who has studied the records of Drezen and will be of utmost assistance to you once you reach there. Motioning for one of the men at the table to her left to stand she continues. This is Aron Kin. An expert in tactics traps, infiltration, scouting and the study of Drezen. As to where the location of the Sword of Valor is our divinations can provide us with enough information to assure us that it is in Drezen still but not the exact location. The exact nature of the Sword of Valor precludes scrying on it and its surroundings for obvious reasons.
After the queen talk Sosiel steps forward. I will do my best once we are within the citadel to provide you with as much information as I can. Later when we convene hopefully I can draw you a basic look of the exterior as I have discovered it in my research so you can appreciate its size and the enormity of the task we are going to undertake.
Garith nods as we are told there are some that are suspicious of the party. Of course we shall have detractors, I am only glad that the queen and her most trusted are not among them. I wonder if my kin are backing me, or if they too are the target of these aspersions as they have long been less than exemplary crusaders as a whole. I would not be surprised if they too are casting them to distance themselves from me. Heh. Garith's naivete allowing him not to dwell too much on this. It is the situation in Drezen that captures the Paladin's attention.
It is after a deep bow that Garith speaks, "Your Majesty, I am most honored to have your confidence in this. Along with the powers with which we have been blessed, visions of the past also came upon us. One such vision was of Stauton Vhane and his betrayal, and now to have the opportunity to recover the city."
Then the soldier takes over, occupied with tactical options, and excited to be in the presence of such a great leader, he partially wants to show competence. "What sort of force are you able to send with us? And how long would we have with the men to prepare for the campaign" he asks, mind buzzing with formation and romantic notions of battle of a recruit, yet tempered by someone who's seen real combat and the horror of their foes.
The queen favors your tactical inquiries as she points to the some of the knights in the room. The vanguard of knights that you no doubt saw upon our arrival is to be your army. They are a hundred strong and all well trained. More so they have all volunteered to be part of this mission although the exact details were not given to them. I would see that you leave in a week's time and use that week to meet the army and go over the command hierarchy. Among yourselves you are to choose the army commander. If 1 of you 6 does not wish the position then another can lead the actual army while you 6 compose a strike force of sorts. Along with this army will be the necessary baggage train of supplies and personal needed to keep the army on the move. All of it will be mounted though as stagnation in the worldwound is a sure death. If there are those that you wish to go with you that can be accommodated as well as a couple extra will not affect the fighting effectiveness of the army nor slow it down.
Along with them I will be sending Sosiel Vaenic, follower of the Eternal Rose to aid you with his divine powers and Nurah Dendiwar, a bard to lift the spirits of the men and improve moral as you march onward.
Pakak's eyes flare at hearing of the accusations How could anyone be so idiotic not to see... he sets his jaw as the others ask questions.
"A shield that cuts its bearer instead of protecting him is no longer a shield, your majesty," Pakak states, letting a side glance linger over the tables before returning to her, "Would that some had the sense to see that as you do. More news of Aponavicius and her ways will perhaps let us know how she sets her forces even in her absence. Who are her lieutenants that will be in charge while she is away? Do we know such?"
The queen cocks her head at your question and looks to one of her advisors on the right. Sharing a look with a dwarf wearing the symbol of Torag the man rises to his feet. An excellent question and one we ask ourselves daily. Aponavicius has proven quite resourceful and does not make the same mistake twice. You can not fool her into falling into a trap as she has seen and implemented them all herself. Yet the best news for you is that there are reports from the border of a large army of demons amassing along the Sarkora River in preparation to invade the capital Sarkora and other points farther south. If what we belive is true then Aponivicius and her commanders with be with her leaving the citadel of Drezen severely weakened. As to who or what might be there the occluding power of the Sword of Valor has prevented such srcying of forces. I would expect though that many demons, cultists, tieflings, and traitors would be found in and around Drezen. Remember also that you are in the worldwound and anything could materialize before you so be prepared for anything.
Pskak, you know that by his dress that he is a high standing member of the priesthood of Torag.
"Thank you, Hammerson," He says using an old Dwarven expression for the priesthood, "Depending on what dark prize he was given for his treachery, the thief of the weapon might yet live on as well and act as a guardian... albeit as a now unnatural one."
"I can draw you a basic look of the exterior as I have discovered it in my research so you can appreciate its size and the enormity of the task we are going to undertake."
Reiko bows politely to the scholar, satisfied with the Queen's recitation of the man's credentials. "It's an honor, Master Kin. We appreciate your willingness to bring your tactical acumen to this venture."
"The vanguard of knights that you no doubt saw upon our arrival is to be your army. They are a hundred strong and all well trained."
"It would be helpful, your Highness, if your sergeant-at-arms could provide us with a roster of the troops, their skills , and the names of the senior-most leaders in each unit."
"Thank you, Hammerson," He says using an old Dwarven expression for the priesthood, "Depending on what dark prize he was given for his treachery, the thief of the weapon might yet live on as well and act as a guardian... albeit as a now unnatural one."
What you suggest is a possibility as no sighting of this Stauton Vhane has been seen since the fall of Drezen. It is possible he was killed anddiscarded after his treachery or the worldwound has altered him beyond our reckoning.
"I can draw you a basic look of the exterior as I have discovered it in my research so you can appreciate its size and the enormity of the task we are going to undertake."Reiko bows politely to the scholar, satisfied with the Queen's recitation of the man's credentials. "It's an honor, Master Kin. We appreciate your willingness to bring your tactical acumen to this venture."
"The vanguard of knights that you no doubt saw upon our arrival is to be your army. They are a hundred strong and all well trained.""It would be helpful, your Highness, if your sergeant-at-arms could provide us with a roster of the troops, their skills , and the names of the senior-most leaders in each unit."
You shall have all of that information as soon as you meet with the troops. As for the officers there are 4 platoon leaders and 1 commander currently. If you wish to divide the forces up more to your liking that will be up to the commander of the army.
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Garith shifts uncomfortably for a moment, and glancing at his comrades, the knight steps forword. "I do not wish to create bad blood among the ranks or command, but I would volunteer to lead the army if the Paladins would follow me. I myself am a Paladin of Iomadae as they are, and before the attack when we fell to the underground I trained with the crusaders. By your will, I can lead these valiant crusaders with my fellows." Not one to seek glory or power, but more than willing to tkae up the mantle of command, Garith speaks. He hopes his family history in the crusades gives clout to his potential command rather than detracting.
In the capacity of commander he does ask "Your Majesty, when we venture into enemy territory, what is your will regarding prisoners, should the servants of the demons surrender? Are we to take them captive, slay them to the last, test them to see if they were forced to fight against their will?" While most of the enemies that they have faced so far have fought to the last and been the worst kind of servant of the demonic hordes, when dealing with armies, there is greater potential for there to be soldiers not given a choice but to fight, yet there is a risk of feigning repentance in order to weaken this crusade from within the ranks. Garith does not want to return with a set of prisoners against the queen's will but is still uncomfortable with the thought of slaying so many. Those dead by his hands already still weigh heavily on his heart.
Maelchar fidgets slightly, not wanting to interrupt, but finally he speaks up, his soft voice carrying nonetheless. "Your Majesty, excuse my interruption, but with the army mounted it might be best if we were as well. I don't know what resources the city might have left after the devastation. Would your forces be able to spare enough mounts for me and my companions to ride? And perhaps one for our gear?"
The queen hears your question Garith but takes a very long time in answering. You are almost about to repeat the question when she sits up and looks you in the eye. In the midst of battle accepting surrender from a foe can be your death warrant as they will try to fool you to gain a moments distraction. I would not see the loss of an army come from staying their hands looking for those to surrender. Once the battle is won then the opportunity for accepting surrender becomes a valid option. This weighs heavily on me as I know that there are those who have joined with the demonic forces out of compulsion or trickery. Every creature that can be redeemed not only weakens them but strengthens us at the same time.
You, as a group, will have to be judge and jury when the time comes. If you believe that redemption is possible then I suggest you take the opportunity presented to you. You never know what the results may be and Iomedae herself favors those who are able to turn a black heart into the light.
Maelchar fidgets slightly, not wanting to interrupt, but finally he speaks up, his soft voice carrying nonetheless. "Your Majesty, excuse my interruption, but with the army mounted it might be best if we were as well. I don't know what resources the city might have left after the devastation. Would your forces be able to spare enough mounts for me and my companions to ride? And perhaps one for our gear?"
A valid point and 1 that is easily rectified. The question though is how many of you are skilled in riding or handling a horse? I would surmise that only a couple of you are so trained. I will see to it that our best trained horses are available for your use though I would recommend dismounting as soon as conflict approaches. I will send two men to take care of the horses when you make camp to ease your burden during your command. The men will be mounted as well leading another set of horses for your gear. I trust that this will fulfill your needs quite adequately in this area.
Is there any other requests that you would have of me as payment for services already rendered and for your future services as well?
Of the 4 people on the left that were sitting in the chair you have met 3 of them as they were introduced by the queen. The last looks to be a scribe taking notes of the meeting. On the right hand side Pakak was able to identify 1 as a high level priest of Torag while the other 3 remain a bit of a mystery still. 1 is dressed in long marron robes with gold and silver embroidery. The second is a darker individual that has not spoken at all even to the others at the table as he looks at the group quite carefully. You notice a set of knives on each hip but no other weapon on his person. The last individual is an elf with a longsword and bow dressed in greys and blues. The firelight must dance strangely as it seems that he disappears out of the corner of your eye if you are not looking at him directly.
"You give us great honor allowing us to serve in this way... I can't think of anything else. It is we who are in your debt, Your Majesty."
He looks to his companions for anything they might think of that he didn't.
Reiko frowns in thought, then speaks with mixed emotions, "Highness, I don't believe anyone here had thought of payment when we did as we have done. Nor can we measure the value of our service to you or to our common cause. I think those judgments fall to your Majesty alone... For my people, we cannot set a price on duty, nor ask for reward. As samurai, we meet our obligations - that is all. Our daimyos may honor our service with gifts, but there is no precedent for this... I leave it to your Highness to bestow honors as you see fit. I apologize if my answer is obtuse but - as samurai - I cannot answer any other way with honor." Reiko lapses into silence, looking uncomfortable.
After a moment, an idea strikes the ronin. She presents Radiance to the Queen. "However, I would ask a favor, your Highness. This is Radiance, a blade of legend. It behaves differently in my hands than in Sir Garith's. It would be a benefit to us during this war if your advisors could attempt to divine the nature of this relic and how we can manifest its powers." Reiko is relieved to have found a way to meet the Queen's request without tainting her own honor.
spellcraft 11 ranks 1 int 3 class and identify...
The man with the log robes looks up at the queen expenctantly. Getting a nod from her he rises and takes the balde in his hands. Turning it over and over in his hands he seems quite puzzled. This blade is quite strange for there is energy stored within somehow. Yet for the life of me I can not figure out how to tap into it. I can only surmise that it will function for specific individuals and that I am not one of them. I can only suggest that you keep it close to you and try to see if it feels any different to you at certain times.
Maelchar's brows furrow and he licks his lips nervously, having already said he had nothing to ask, when a thought suddenly occurs to him. He steps forward after Reiko gets her answer and shakily asks, "Your majesty, there is one thing. One of our companions through the underground trek was injured and lost his sight when the city was destroyed. No one in the city had the means to restore him. Is it possible that maybe one of your retinue has the power to restore sight? It would be a great favor if you can arrange such a healing miracle."
Pakak nods at Maelchar's attempt to aid the senior wizard approvingly
"Perhaps it is not my place or right to speak this" - the monk's voice is heard for the first time - "And I do not know exactly how to approach this matter, as I am not a skilled speaker" - he adds.
"My name is Zeriax your Highness" - he bows - "My question is if there will be others from Kenabres accompanying us? I ask because we have befriended many of valor who would certainly offer a very meaningful contribution to our endeavours" - taking a step forward, the archer continues - "Would we be somehow allowed to extend such invitation, as we are assigned to the role of leading your army?"
Maelchar's brows furrow and he licks his lips nervously, having already said he had nothing to ask, when a thought suddenly occurs to him. He steps forward after Reiko gets her answer and shakily asks, "Your majesty, there is one thing. One of our companions through the underground trek was injured and lost his sight when the city was destroyed. No one in the city had the means to restore him. Is it possible that maybe one of your retinue has the power to restore sight? It would be a great favor if you can arrange such a healing miracle."
Pointing to the dwarven priest the queen responds kindly, A selfless request such as this must indeed be granted. I will have Dungor take a look at him as soon as we are done here. He has quite some skill in healing by both mundane and divine means. What caused the loss of blindness if I may ask. That knowledge will do much in knowing what must be done to help this man.
"Perhaps it is not my place or right to speak this" - the monk's voice is heard for the first time - "And I do not know exactly how to approach this matter, as I am not a skilled speaker" - he adds.
"My name is Zeriax your Highness" - he bows - "My question is if there will be others from Kenabres accompanying us? I ask because we have befriended many of valor who would certainly offer a very meaningful contribution to our endeavours" - taking a step forward, the archer continues - "Would we be somehow allowed to extend such invitation, as we are assigned to the role of leading your army?"
I had not planned on sending any others with you. However if you feel that there are those who you wish to accompany you for various reason I am not opposed to it as long as the number does not get too large. How many where you thinking of accompanying you for they must be mounted as well to keep up. I would hope not more than a half dozen as soon you will get too large to travel quickly and will bring attention to yourself.
"I..." - the usually calm and pragmatic monk seems to hesitate, but then continues - "Again I expect not to be speaking out of place - as to how many I am not sure, since only two names immediately come to mind" - he pauses for a moment - "Dame Irabeth has been a beacon in these dark times, and having her by our side would fill me with pride - but your Highness surely already knows this, and it is not my place or will to intrude on military affairs" - he nods - "On the other hand, Dame Anevia has shown respectable skill and resilience in the most difficult of situations, and would be another that I would welcome into our group"
Looking at the Queen, he finishes humbly - "There is a lot to their decisions that surpasses me, amongst free will and possible matters of state, but my question aimed at knowing if I am allowed to invite them to join us as part of the army. If I am allowed such freedom of action?"
The queen smiles down at you. Yes, Zeriax, you may ask them to go with you. I had thought to keep Irabeth here to solidify Kenebras but if what y say is true then both her and Anevia could prove quite the assets to your venture. Their skill and abilities may be needed and I can leave someone from my retinue here if they wish to go along with you. Perhaps if you 6 are on a separate mission then Irabeth would do well to lead the army in Garith's absence.
"Thank you" - Zeriax bows again.
Reiko masks her disappointment at the wizard's inability to decipher more about the sword. She takes Radiance back and sheathes the blade, "Thank you."
When the questions cease about the exact makeup of the army, logistical questions about supplies, inquiries into the beasts that typical roam the worldwound, and others of that ort, the queen rises up from her seat and steps off of the dais. Drawing her sword, Duty, she approaches you all. Kneel now and accept this honor that I bestow upon you. I have charged you with a great mission and purpose. The trials ahead of you are going to be vast, numerous, and beyond your reckoning. Yet, if you should prevail, you will be counted among some of the heroes of the fight against the demons of the Worldwound. You have fought for Kenebras and her people. You have fought for the honor of your family name and for each other. I ask now that you fight for me. In doing so I knight all of you as the first Knights of the Fifth Crusade.
As she speaks she reverently touches each of you on the shoulder knighting you all. At each touch of the sword on the shoulder the 6 medals attached to her cloak flash. When done with the knighting ceremony Queen Galfrey returns to her seat. With this knighthood comes 3 boons that are now yours. The first is the ability to lead the army of paladins into the Worldwound. Only a true knight can have that honor even if they are not called knight formally. Second, should you recapture Drezen, under my authority I give you stewardship of the city to do as you see fit. Lastly as you may have noticed is the bestowment of Righteous Medals. Upon being knighted, each knight has the opportunity to earn Righteous Medals. There are 6 in all and they are enchanted with magic to ensure that they only work for the one they are bestowed upon.
Now then, There is much to do and little time to do it. I trust that in a week's time you will be ready to march from here with the army into the Worldwound. The rest of the people that have come this far will stay to bolster the defenses of Kenebras and begin to return it to its former condition. Tomorrow I will return to Nerosyan to counter the offensive the demons have there. Good luck to all of you and may Iomedae be with you.
Maelchar kneels readily enough when asked, then struggles to blink back tears when the Queen touches him with the sword... The others deserve this honor, but I am just an orphan with no family name of my own. This is too much of an honor for one such as me. How will I ever live up to her trust?
When bidden to stand again, he does so, his eyes reddened and rimmed with tears, half of joy, half of distress. Softly, he replies to the queen, though in truth probably only those closest to him, his companions, hear his words. "And may she always be with you as well, your Majesty"
Reiko kneels reluctantly unsure of what the Queen intends and - more importantly - the implications of the act. She listens carefully to the Queen's words with a sense of relief as it becomes clear that they aren't being sworn into her Majesty's personal service. That was an honor Reiko would have to refuse; she could only serve her dead lord until her vow was fulfilled.
Reiko accepts the honor with a deep bow and waits to be released. The Queen was right... there was much to be done.