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Garith takes a knee and solemnly receives. As the blade touches him, his lips silently move in an oath to honor this responsibility.
After speaking to the queen, Garith speaks to his friends and companions, My friends, we have survived much, but now we go to war. I pray that we can rise to this challenge, and lead these paladins to victory and recapture Drezen with minimal loss... I hope I have your confidence in leading this force. "
Garith wishes to meet the force and get right down to it, raining, ruining drills and formations and developing signals for giving orders, getting to know how the army moves. I need your help in managing the army. There are many men and I must not falter in this post. I'm not going to presume to order any of you around but I need to delegate. garith says in private with his companions, asking what positions they want.
By the end of the week, it is clear by the way Garith carries himself thatthe paladin has changed. There is a harshness in his voice that wasn't there before and a more military clip in his step. This time with a larger military force has brought out something buried, recently shaken lose by the fight in Kenebras.
During the week, Maelchar aids Garith however he can, assisting with the men, circulating among them, getting to know them. Without giving any orders or anything, as that is Garith's job now, he does his best to spread confidence in their new leader.
He does spend some time searching out the Zeru clan among the survivors, going to whatever remains of their home. He'll search out neighbors, friends and distant relatives if he can, trying to learn whatever happened to them all.
Zeriax spends most of his time divided between his companions and now friends, offering his assistance wherever it seems to be needed, and namely meeting with Garith for the organization of the army.
He does devote a lot of effort into continuing his training with Anevia and whatever soldiers decide to accompany them, whether from Kenabres, or from the Queen's Army - strangely enough, he finds that the discipline and order which are an integral part of a military organization, actually mesh well with his sensibilities, and that his usually curt and pragmatic approach can sometimes be well recived by the soldiers.
Whenever the chance presents itself on one of those occasions, and at the end of one more training filled with effort, the monk addresses Anevia - "Friend Anevia, I am not aware of how much you know of the path ahead of us, but me and the others will leave to Drezen within the week - a mission of utmost importance to the war effort awaits us" - Zeriax speaks calmly - "The Queen has allowed us a measure of autonomy, hence after some pondering, and with her permission I would like to ask you to accompany us - we have been through a lot since the days below Kenabres - I believe it was the support amongst all of us that contributed decisively to allow us to traverse that most dreadful of tests" - he smiles - "You are highly skilled. I have witnessed it during the last weeks, and the potential seems immense. I would be most honored if you would accept"
Pausing for a few moments, he adds - "I would like you also to know that I intend to extend this invitation to Dame Irabeth" - he lets the though hang, and indeed addresses also Irabeth whenever the chance presents itself.
"Dame Irabeth, you have been a most esteemed advisor, sister at arms, and companion since we reached the surface. Your resolve urges us further, and your presence would surely contribute decisively to our endeavours, as I am surely you are aware of our upcoming travel to Drezen" - the monk seems to ponder - "I know that we seem to currently be the recipients of the divine, but yourself, much like Garith, have lived most your live under the light of Iomedae - we need such strength and determination on our side to prevail" - he approaches the Paladin - "The Queen has allowed us leeway to make some decisions as part of her army - I have decided to ask you to join us in this quest" - he bows.
Reiko spends the week observing and assessing the troops, speaking with the sergeants to get their thoughts of their units, and drilling along-side the men. A week isn't much time to foster trust or build troop cohesion, but it was all the time they had.
As the week progresses, the soldiers seem to take heart from the new leadership presented to them. Perhaps they can sense the mythic abilities that dwell within each of you or perhaps they are that dedicated to the cause that they are willing to follow an unknown and unproven Sir Garith into the Worldwound. It isn't just Garith though that the army is willing to follow. Each branch of the army is impressed with the abilities of its new leaders. The new leaders may not be the most conventional or tactically sound but they do have combat experience and have done what few others have done: assault a fortification held by the demons and cultists and survived victoriously.
With your new duties with the army and the fact that you are learning as much as you can about militant matters Zeriax there is not much time to train with Anevia. You only manage to get a single training session in with her due to both of your schedules.
During the session you broach the topic of her and Irabeth accompanying you into the Worldwound. She ceases firing her bow down and sits on a log nearby as she contemplates your offer. I have pondered my fate ever since you rescued me from the depths below Kenebras. I know that whatever path I take it must be with Irabeth at my side. I am content to do my part here but my answer will be the same as hers and I know that she will want to accompany you to Drezen.
When you approach Irabeth she is sitting in the Heart looking over some papers regarding the current state of Kenebras. Smiling as you arrive she listens to your explanation of why you want her with you. Queen Galfrey mentioned something to me the day she left that my path would not likely keep me here long. I thought she would have orders for me specifically but I see now that she must have been referring to this. We have shared much Zeriax, all of us at the Garrison. while I still do not understand all of what happened or why I know that I could do much worse than joining with you in leading an offensive towards Drezen. What would you have me do for you as it seems our roles will be reversed now. It is the 6 of you who are leading and I will be following you. I do not begrudge this at all if this is the path that we need to take to end this war and finally be at peace. although I am a follower of Iomedae I still long for the day when Anevia and myself can rest easy without the threat of demons attacking. I will gladly go to see that day arrives quicker.
Before the queen leaves she sends her priest to visit with Aravashinal at the library. Pakak is there along with Samantha and any others who wsh to participate. The priest comes close to Aravashinal and lays his hands on the old man's shoulders. There are those who speak highly of you and request that you receive this blessing from the queen for your efforts under Kenbras and within it. May this restore your sight as well as your purpose and spirit. With that he makes a poultice and places it on both eyes. May Torag hear my plea remove the poultice and leave his healing in its place.
As the poultice is removed Aravashinal blinks his eyes as he looks around the room. Overcome by the return of his sight he cant focus on anything until Pakak hands him his spellbooks. Aravashinal runs a familiar hand down the spine of the book the tears flowing freely. Wiping them away he finds that he can see clearly for the first time since the attack. In halting stammering speech, Thank you.This means more than you know. I was lost in a dark place in my soul without guidance. I have my sight back and with you I have guidance. I have heard the rumors of an army going to Drezen and you leading them. Please, let me accompany you and do what I can to strike back at the demons who struck out at me? I ask this not for revenge but from a knowledge that I can help make a difference for others.
You can tell that this ordeal has changed him greatly. He is no longer the haughty all powerful wizard he once acted but is now more humble and contrite willing to work with others than commanding them to obey his demands.
"I think in this that I can speak for the others, my good friend and wizard. You are most welcome to join us and make your mark upon our foes. I cannot tell you how good it is to see you and know you can see me as well. Praise to Torag for this marvelous healing."
He turns to the priest and bows. "And thank you good priest for being a conduit for this most holy miracle."
Zeriax ackowledges Anevia's words with a nod and a smile - "I understand"
After speaking with Irabeth, and listening to her words, the monk bows - "Thank you for your decision. I understand you long for peace both for you and Dame Anevia, but I believe we may unfortunately still have a long way to go until we can accomplish it, for any of us"
Looking outside towards the gathered troops, he adds - "You understand war and soldiers better than any of us. It is a strange world indeed, one where you would turn to the likes of me inquiring 'what I would have you do" - he shakes his head then turns to regard her once again - "I would have you fighting by our side, advising and offering your honest and frontal opinion regarding any situations we come across - be it regarding a combat situation, or simply leading the army. We respect you, and your words carry a lot of weight amongst our mist. Again, thank you for accompanying us" - he finishes.
The priests responds to Maelchar with a short bow, It is my pleasure to be of service to the queen. No if you will excuse me I must return to her side as we leave now to go back home. With a little shake you can hear him muttering as he walks away, Damnable teleportation spell, it always give me the shakes. I would rather march back but there is not enough time. Never enough time these days. Blasted it all.
Irabeth nods to Zeriax as she looks northwest. It will be my pleasure to take the fight to them for a change. IF you should want my advice then I would suggest that if you 6 decide to undertake a separate mission that I be left in charge of the army. Many of them have at least heard of me from working here in Kenebras and will hopefully listen to me in your absence.
The day finally arrives and the army is prepared to move out. The horses as promised where supplied for the group along with Anevia Irabeth and Aravashinal. Aron Kir provides a map (in the campaign tab) explaining, I believe the best route would be heading north directly to Valas’s Gift and then follow the east bank of the Sellen River north until you come to Vilareth Ford, at which point we can cross the West Sellen and continue north along its west bank to the dry Ahari riverbed. This route will provide something of a natural trail to follow to keep us well orientated.
The army consumes 5 resources a day and can carry a total of 50 resources with it. As the trip is 160 miles away and the army on horse can travel at 36 miles a day you should reach Drezen in 5 1/2 days barring combat, recuperation or other setbacks.
All of the equipment is in excellent condition and should last for numerous engagements unless you come across rust monsters or acid breathing creatures. Those encounters may cause the improved weapons asset to be lost.
Morale is high and should stay that way as long as progress is being made and no significant casualties are taken. This is war and it seems that all of the paladins are ready to fight the demons even if it means sacrificing themselves to do it. The health of the army is sound with no diseases to worry about as they all have divine blessing protecting them from disease.
The horses are fit and sound and well trained in combat. As long as they are not overly exerted on the march they should remain in good enough condition to fight and provide quite a boon for the army. As you are stil in Kenebras you have not seen any signs of treachery yet or any hidden spies. You are welcome to go with Zeriax as well and read his spoiler.
You take a look at the map and with Anevia and small squad of 10 men start to head out along the path described. It is exactly as it was told and it appears the path will make easy travelling for the first day.
After the reconaissance, Zeriax stays with Anevia and half of their forces to guard the area where presumably the army will make camp for the first day, making sure no dangers present themselves, and sends half of the contingent to liaise with the main body, and relay the information to Garith.
Almost at the end of the day of travel you see a smoking ruin of a village, Vala's Gift. There is no sign of people of enemy forces and you could make it another 8 miles if you press on.
Reiko sits astride her mount easily, a born horse-woman. Among the small scout force, she speaks to Zeriax while her eyes sweep the town's ruins. "Shall we search the village? Enemy spider-holes could be hidden in the rubble."
With the approach of darkness, Reiko activates the dragon's scale and her vision becomes sharp though bled of color.
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"Indeed. We should not pass through this ruin before searching it. Irabeth, Can you assist us in dividing up search patrols?" Garith asks.
"We can have units with signal horns clearing each area before moving on. Aravashinal and Pakak can remain with the main force so we are able to move out at a moment's notice in force to aid if there are any attacks. Demons can appear from anywhere, but there is the chance of mundane forces as well, and we must be ready for both." Garith suggests
"Agreed" - the monk nods - "But I would rather have Master Pakak with us. His arcane powers play a decisive part in our strength"
"Six days, if all goes well," Pakak says, "if it doesn't? I make no promises." The dwarf does not look enthused about the task of logistics, but he does it with upfront and earnest effort.
The reports trickle back to the main army as the commanders ride forward leaving Irabeth, Anevia and Aravashinal behind with the army. Taking a vanguard with them of 15 men to combine with the 10 in e scouting party the largish forces able to scour the village of Vala's Gift in time before the main army arrives. There are numerous signs of demonic presence during the invasion along with mortals as well. It appears that after the destruction the marauding forces either withdrew (the mortals) or continued on (the demons).
The structures still remain mostly intact and it makes a good stopping point for the army this first day. Command tents are furnished for you should you want them giving the army a location to turn to should something happen during the night.
Aron explains that after looking at the map he has provided that the next location is a full day's travel north to the Vilareth Ford. A detachment of crusaders is always assigned to guard it as it is a natural choke point for invading armies. It was so named for the first crusader who held the crossing against 20 tieflings during the first crusade.
As you set up camp some of the buildings are used and a store of supplies are found easily replacing what was used during the day. (Still at 50 Pakak)
You notice that Aron and Sosiel take an abandoned building to themselves after making sure that all of their duties have been performed.
Nurah looks through a small building and enters it alone and spends the night by herself. This is after she gives a rousing song about the heroics of the victorious crusaders during the first crusade lifting the spirits of the men around her that are not on watch.
Maelchar spends the evening relaxing with his companions, enjoying the inspiring song and circulating among the army a bit, just making sure morale is high and getting to know as many of them as he can on a first name basis.
Trying his best not to intrude, or cause any embarassing situation, Zeriax still makes a point when on watch (I am assuming there will be watches during the night, and he'll want to participate) to check on Aron, Sosiel and Nurah, making sure their chosen place of rest is safe, without invading their privacy.
Zeriax will try as best as possible to spend time with his companions, since his main duties have gotten him away from all but Reiko for most of the day. He will also be part of the watch during the night - "My eyes can pierce the veil of darkness" - he explains.
Reiko spends her evening seeing to the needs of the horses and talking with the troops, trying to build a sense of camaraderie. For two of the senior men, charged with guarding the encampment overnight, she offers the blessings of the dragon's scale to give them darkvision.
Zeriax nothing untowrqds happens during the night and as you check on the the buildings you notice that blinds are drawn onthe inside of Nurah's house.
The two higher ranking soldiers you selected Reiko appreciate the boon you granted them and step livelier on their patrols. It seems at the army appreciates the efforts of you and Zeriax in helping defend the encampment.
Spirits are still high and Maelchar your natural skills go along ways to getting the men to trust you and become comfortable with the new leadership.
The morning sun rises only to find that Terendelev's Claws are breaking camp already eager to set out for the second leg of their journey. The army is still well rested as it was only a single day on the move and spirits are still up.
Anevia chooses to ride out with the scouts this morning ahead of the army hoping to be an advance warning should they encounter something. She takes 5 paladins with her. She also recommends that there is another detachment of 5 soldiers on all of the other 3 sides as well so the army is surrounded with scouts.
Aron chooses to ride by Pakak as the camp breaks up and heads out on the march.
Aron tries talking to you to see how it is that you, a dwarf, got involved with the crusades. He knows that all races are threatened but there are not too many elves, dwarves, gnomes or halflings involved. Indeed, there seems to be more of the uncommon races trying to find a place to fit in rather than the other races. It makes you wonder about the people we come across and fight against. Given other circumstances would they have joined ourside.
Sosiel rides along with Maelchar as he inquires about the divine nature of his abilities.
Riding uncomfortably in the saddle he angles up to you Maelchar. If you do not mind my questioning, to what do you attribute your divine gifts. I find that my strength coms from Shelyn, whom your companion Samantha venerates as well. I have always found your kind to be most interesting of our divine brethren. Do not get me wrong, I am pleased that you are here and have been blessed as you are. It is just an interesting idea to me as I have not experienced it firsthand nor do I knw anyone directly of your abilities.
By no means is he trying to bait you Maelchar and the reference to your kind is without malice or harmful intent. He just does not know how to phrase it any differently with you being an oracle.
Irabeth takes a turn riding with Reiko unless Reiko goes off with the scouts. In that case Reiko, read Zeriax's spoiler as well.
Irabeth rides in companionable silence for the first hour before voicing a question that she had been thinking about for the past couple of days. Reiko, what brought you here to the Worldwound? I ask as you are from the East with traditions that differ from our own yet there is a kinship with you greater than I would have expected with one so foreign. Who is it that you serve and follow for I am ignorant of many of your ways though I wish to become more knowledgeable?
Nurah sits easily on her horse as she moves next to Samantha.
Nurah says little to you directly on the march but does break out into song for the army's behalf every once in a while. The few times that your duties aren't getting in the way and you are free to boost morale Nurah listens intently to your performance. It is almost like she is trying to learn your cadence and rhythm. Finally after a few hours of this she quietly joins in on one of your inspirations taking the part of the accompaniment. While still not initiating conversation with you she will respond to questions and comments you send her way.
Garith the army is moving nicely and you think that you should be able to reach Vilareth Ford about and hour before nightfall at the given pace.
Maelchar looks no more comfortable in a saddle or on a horse than Sosiel, yet he does his best not to look like a fool up there on that equine.
"Your question is most welcome, friend Sosiel. I will assume you are speaking of me being an oracle, not my celestial blood. In that case, my abilities and 'powers', if you will come, I believe, from Iomedae herself. I venerate her above all other deities, though I cannot say I do not revere all the good gods. I know that most of those with oracular abilites do not get their abilities from a single divine source, but I have been blessed to find great strength in my devotion and service to Iomedae."
He grows silent for a moment, then continues on. "Shelyn is a fine goddess, and love is important in the world, but I find law and order to be at the forefront of our fight against the demons of the worldwound. Do you mind if I ask, what led you to your devotion to Shelyn? Love and beauty are not hard find inspiration in, but how did you come into such a reverence?" he asks, drawing Sosiel into further conversation.
Aron chooses to ride by Pakak as the camp breaks up and heads out on the march.
Aron tries talking to you to see how it is that you, a dwarf, got involved with the crusades. He knows that all races are threatened but there are not too many elves, dwarves, gnomes or halflings involved. Indeed, there seems to be more of the uncommon races trying to find a place to fit in rather than the other races. It makes you wonder about the people we come across and fight against. Given other circumstances would they have joined ourside.
Pakak is not social by nature, but he is not rude either and besides, the discussion could be interesting, "Well, I think a fair number of dwarves joined the crusade in part to recover the great sky citadel Jormurdun from the Worldwound as much to battle the growing wound itself. As for the rarer races, perhaps it is a matter of acceptance. Here, any being that is not a demon can truly point at the invaders and say 'they are the stranger, not just to this land, but this world' and that's true. For those that fight us in the demon's service? Fear, greed, who knows? Short sighted as they are, such passions can be used to yoke far too many. Maybe some are merely slaves against their will and we may yet liberate them and have them join our cause, but that is for wiser heads than I."
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At Anieva's suggestion, Garith inquires among the commanders with the army, "Among the men are there any particularly strong riders, well-suited to scouting? It has been suggested that we may benefit from warning, of incoming threats. I would have a detachment ride out on our flanks as well as a rear-guard to ensure we are not ambushed." It is with the advice of the commanders that have worked longest with the men that Garith assigns his patrols.
With his company he asks, "Zeriax I've seen you ride off with the scouting missions. Or Reiko... I would ask that one of you, be able to report the finding s of the scouts, and manage the lines of communication? I want to make sure I am aware of what is beyond sight of the army as a whole."
Garith rides with Banner-men rather centrally located. This way he is able to monitor more easily and communicate with the army as a whole. If attacked from the rear, the commanders can flee into the formation and remain well-defended, but Garith cannot justify not at least leading from the middle action. He can receive reports from the front more quickly, and be able to see more of the force and where fighting is.
As the Claws go about the preparation and logistics to start on the move, Zeriax splits the scouting group in four, joining the forward one after discussing and agreeing with Garith regarding the communication flow between the Eyes and the body of the army.