Nikolai bows his head respectfully and follows the lead of the others, climbing up into his saddle once they were back down the mountain some. Valda asked the most important question; what was next.
"I'll want to check in on my people and make sure the truce is holding, but I'd like to see more of Ustalav! I've never been." Birgid is visibly more comfortable now that it seems like the initial negotiations haven't been sabotaged by her mere presence.
What next indeed. Valeska seems thoughtful or perhaps a bit unsure.
Originally, before we knew about the Burning Suns, we were to seek the Open Barrow tribe, for they are the ones who attacked us during the festival. Apparently they revere Lanisha and Verex, the Salvelord and Despoiler... respectively.
We must engage and either make a truce or "discourage" them from further hostilities by some other means.
And, the Bleakwall seems to demand attention, but it is perhaps best to wait on that. I think we've been gone too long. If we come upon the Open Barrow so be it.
But, I long for... home. We must attend to our budding rennaissance. On the way, we can check in with the Burning Suns. Let's not forget our celebrity author, I miss her already.
You will have all the travel you long for, Bashuk... and our home is your home for as long as you wish.
"To the Burning Suns to assess the status of the tribe, retrieve our celebrity, and then a return to Canterwall. We'll reconvene your council and plan our next strategy." There was the threat of the other tribes close to their section of the Hold. The Burning Suns were a strong ally but they were one that would certainly pull them into war over and over again until their territory was secured. The Bleakwall would need to be secured as well, in time, so that the militia and standing forces of the county could defend successfully from incursions from the Hold.
"I will be more than happy to be your guide once we arrive in Ravengro, Bashuk. There is much history to be found in Ustalav, most of it dour but it is our history nonetheless. Thankfully, the countess is leading us to a better path." These foreigners were very intriguing and he could somewhat see the Prince's plan. They were wild, unusual, and full of potential.
As the right hand of the Burning Suns' chieftain, Bashuk was crucial in prior attempts to strike alliances with other tribes, ill-fated though they may have been. By virtue of this role, she knows enough of the Open Barrow tribe - and especially why the Burning Suns opted to avoid them.
The Open Barrow orcs roam the plains north of Urgir, and they frequently cross the Gap of Valballus to conduct raids upon the Ustalavic lands that are now under the rulership of Countess Valeska. Their preferred route when launching these raids causes them to skirt the haunted mountains of Virlych, a practice that many believe has had a morbid influence on the Open Barrow orcs.
The tribe's chieftain, Mazoch Skullface, encourages the practice of necromancy among his followers. This practice is led by his mate and chief advisor, the priestess Krezima. Thus, in addition to claiming food and goods in their raids, the warriors of this tribe also aim to return with the bodies of their slain foes to be raised as zombies by the tribe's priests and necromancers. These are then used as slaves during the Flood Truce and battle fodder during the Proving Time.
Because the Open Barrow need large supplies of onyx to fuel their necromancy, and they are certainly not miners themselves, they trade their spoils with other tribes for the precious stones. Of course, unnerved by the Open Barrow tribe, other orcs rarely stay longer than necessary to conduct these trades.
"Ah, while it has been a peerless delight to be at your service, dear Countess," Gargan calls as the reunited party descends the Tusk Mountains, back towards Valorforge, "I fear we may need to part ways before long. Whilst you may be educated and wise enough to see the benefit of our business partnership, your subjects...I'm guessing not so much, eh?
"I'm not thinking it to be too wise for my men and I to follow you across the border. If you desire to make another expedition into these lands, though, we would be overjoyed to act as your guides again. What's more, for few coins more, we could even warn you if the Open Barrow orcs go on the march for your land. A bit of an early warning would be much desirable, no?"
At the mention of the Open Barrow tribe, Bashuk scowls in disgust. "A vile tribe, necromancers who cavort at the edges of Virlych--they will steal the dead to bind with dark magics, as slaves or disposable troops. Be careful, Countess--they're very dangerous."
Should we check our saddle bags, Gargan? If I didn't know any better, I'd think you were trying to get rid of us. Her eyes sparkle as she smailes at him.
Valda has the right of it, and of course you do too... folks will need to see evidence to accept a change, as well they should.
I'd rather however that our relationship is not so... transactional.
A coin here, a coin there. I'd rather we are allied. Or what happens when my enemy offers you a bit more silver? A relationship built on trust and common goals.
"You wound me, my lady," Gargan jests, arms outstretched plaintively. "There is nothing in those bags that could possibly tempt me to jeopardize our new partnership."
"You have the right of it, my lady. Perhaps Gargan has been looking for some sort of...a 'higher calling' I believe you would call it. I want to make a comfortable living, make no mistake. But, ah! If only that living came with the warm feeling that I was doing good, eh?
"Of course, my worry stands. Would your subjects be able to tell the difference between my humble band and those spooky Open Barrow boys that raided your town? I would not want a misunderstanding to cost you face. Or cost one of us our face."
"I know you are making a joke, but the joke is on you. I would look damn good in a uniform," Gargan boasts. "I would look, how do you say...sharp!"
Valeska smiles... Gargan, think on it. A specialized unit, indeed. And, joking keeps everyone sane.
Valda, you seem to have the right of it... as good a plan as any.
Any opinion that Nikolai had would remain quiet. He was unsure the reaction that the greater political system that was Ustalav would feel about actual orcs being recruited into their forces. Alliances were one thing but to actually hire them as soldiers? His ingrained prejudices were quickly and quietly pushed away; they would not serve the new countess and her goals. Whatever her goals were. She was skilled, well-spoken, and had already helped enact many changes. Her retinue were likewise filled with many others of equal ability and talent. The Prince was playing an interesting card out, a move to shift the country. What would come in the future was anyone's guest.
"I-I-I do look forward to returning to Ravengro. While it is not the academic world I am used to, its...humble nature has its appeal. Let us convene with the Burning Hands and then return back home." Nikolai says with a smile, stepping confidently with the others.
Descending from the Tusk Mountains proves to be easier than the ascent, although only by a shade. Nevertheless, it takes less than two days to return to the plateau holding Valorforge above the rocky Belkzen plains. In your absence, the old fortress has not burned down or crumbled, nor is it littered with bodies.
The Burning Sun scouts spot your approach and quickly summon Chief Firehair. Your return is roundly welcomed by the whole tribe.
"So far, the truce with the Dark Folk has held," the Firehair reports. "In fact, we've not even seen a trace of them since you departed."
Kain gives another hard look at Gargan and his troupe. Trying to size them up better. He wasn't entirely as gung-ho about placing such an important duty as scouting to an Orc. As he knew full well the importance of the role.
If you have any knowledge on the mounts of the Hold, I'd be interested in the potential of that as well. Of course, I'd have to make sure you and your men are up to snuff. He jibes, though likely this band was in better shape than their militia was at the moment.
Kain gives a nod. I would not be too worried about them for a time. I doubt they would strike so quickly after. If it comes, it will be months, if not years from now. Once they have had time to plan their schemes.. He glances off to the distance.
I suppose at least I am happy for the good news. He says, looking back to her after a few moments.
"W-we will be appropriately ready. I am keen to begin my research on their deity and expected practices...i-if they should strike against us, we will be prepared." Nikolai says reassuringly or at least as reassuringly as he could.
"I will have to send some requests to Lepidstadt; I am not sure the depth of Ravengro's library or other literary collections." The scholar seems far too excited at the thought of delving into books and researching through old tomes.
"Now that we don't have to worry as much about guarding our young and infirm, we are better able to focus upon projects like the gate," Chief Firehair states. "Your friend, Kindler, has been offering her unsolicited input. It been received...with patience."
Without the proper tools or materials, the Burning Sun orcs have been doing their best to construct the barrier. Allowed to explore the surface stronghold more freely, no longer having to worry about raids by the Caligni, they have found some old, cast-off tools and weapons that were overlooked by other scavengers.
"We even found some small caches of coins and gems left behind by the old Easterlings who once manned this fortress," the Firehair says. "Tucked behind loose stones or into crevices. We even found an oilskin pouch hanging beneath the seat of one of the privies."
It is good to find you well, and busy... how is everyone? On the mend, I hope. Valeska is genuinely concerned.
A windfall of riches in the form or unsolicited advice and precious items. We shall take the former off your hands, unless you've made her comfortable enough that she prefer to stay. Valeska offers a wry smile.
We did find the Dwarves, or at least their scout. It seems we may have potential allies there. Exciting times.
Is there something you require? Materials, food, beverage... supplies in general? It seems your newly found wealth could go towards paying for that. If Canterwall does not have what you need, we shall source it.
A caravan shall be on its way, even if a modest one.
The Burning Suns have need of stoneworking and carpentry tools to make repairs to their new home to make it more defensible - and livable. Chief Firehair also requests either barrels to collect rain. If there are weapons or magics that are particularly effective against the Caligni, the Burning Sun warriors also request them, to prepare in case the truce is broken.
We shall make a list and endeavor to have it all sourced and delivered. If you give us too much money, it shall be returned to you. You will not be cheated.
After a rest, we will continue to Canterwall. Any news of the Open Barrow tribe?
Bashuk moves among her tribe, quietly checking in on everyone and going down to examine the gate-in-progress herself. "I will speak with the Countess about getting proper building supplies shipped here--we can build a proper gate and even fix up the castle eventually."
"Well, the Open Barrow haven't attacked since you've been gone," Chief Firehair states. It's hard to tell whether or not she means this as a bit of sarcastic humor.
Regardless, the last news the Burning Suns have on the Open Barrow is from several weeks ago when they launched their raid on Ravengro. Safely entrenched in and around Valorforge, the Burning Sun orcs first watched the Open Barrow raiding party march eastward, then watched the remnants limp back westward after their defeat. They seemed to veer southward rather than pressing on towards Urgir, suggesting they were returning to their territory near Virlych to lick their wounds for a time.
It sounds like it will be several seasons before the Open Barrow threaten Canterwall again. They need time to rebuild both their forces and their confidence.
Miss Kindler makes her reappearance. She emerges from the fortress basilica with a notebook under her arm.
"Damn you for leaving me here," she says in her usual scathing tone that you've learned is meant as a veiled jest. "Studying this old fortress has been distracting me from my original goals. I'm supposed to be retired, now I find myself wanting to write not one but two new books? Damn it all."
Valeska is relieved at the news of the Open Barrow. It was our first night, you know... all of us strangers. Luck, fate? Whatever it was, it will be difficult to forget.
Upon hearing the old lady's complaints. Come, come... Ms. Kindler. We shall take you with us, back to Canterwall and find you a perfect space to write in and from.
There is much to be done. She offers the Firehair a wink.
"I have some insights that you may find interesting, Ms. Kindler. Let us compare the notes together, perchance?" Nikolai said, the eagerness of his voice not hidden even slightly.
Valeska seems taken by surprise at the... turn of phrase. - her domain -
Canterwall, yes... but, my domain? Hardly. It belongs to all who live and visit there, so long as they contribute and do no harm unto others. I'm merely an appointed custodian.
Humbling, really... one day I shall be worthy of the title bestowed upon me. With a meek and relieved smile, Valeska nods.
Rejoined by Ailson Kindler, your party rides eastward - across the Gap of Valballus - back towards the border with Ustalav. Gargan and his warriors continue to escort you across this last leg of your sojourn through their land. Before nightfall, the gray outlines of the crumbling walls and weathered watchtowers of the Bleakwall come into view, marking the far edge of your ostensible territory.
"The greenery of your home is within sight, my lords and ladies, so here we must part for now," Gargan announces.
...
On the following night, as you near Ravengro, you spot the gaily colored wagon of some manner of traveling salesman camped out beside a lonely farmstead on the rolling moors.
Valeska makes certain Gargan and his men are paid what they are owed and fairly, generously.
Stay alive, gentleman. These are exciting times.
"Sister Valda is correct, Countess. Whether you feel you are worthy of such a title is irrelevent; the Prince has decided you and your companions to be the stewards and caretakers of Canterwall. Its success is your success. Its failure is your failure." Nikolai says not with the shaky uncertainty the group has come to know he has when it comes to personal conversations. It held a determined, albeit heavy, weight upon itself.
They depart from Gargan and his men, the rough terrain giving way to the soft and melancholy beauty of the moors of Ustalav. Nikolai's mood seems to rise a bit, the thrill of being near home after a venture one of the best sensations therein.
"When we arrive, we shall take stock of the situation, news, and needs of Ravengro. After that, we can conspire what our next move shall be. I-If that is alright with you, Countess." Nikolai murmurs in deference to Valeska.
Looking to Nikolai and Valda, You are both quite right. And, if you wish to stay in Canterwall... your skills would be appreciated, with you being compensated. You've both proven yourselves invaluable and trustworthy companions.
Thoughts on the matter, Kain? Speak freely.
Perhaps that puts Kain in an akward position... he can handle it. And, they seem the type to value honesty and transparency where possible.
Kain pauses in thought for a moment before looking to and answering Valda.
I have mentioned the need to retake some of the closer defensible forts near our burgeoning county. Despite potential alliances within the Hold, its residents at large are still a threat to our people. Should a new war-chief start uniting tribes and go on a warpath, we would have little defense against it in our current state. I also believe rebuilding the wall is not feasible at this time, though a good long term goal. After all, if someone ever manages to unite the majority of the Hold, it would be better to have the walls and forts than not. It would also give a safe place for any allies from the area to fall back to should the need ever arise.
he looks out over the land for a few moments, surveying it before continuing.
As for the immediate, I think, considering our situation, a good objective would be to find and train light horses for the majority of our militia, and train them in use of ranged weaponry while on horseback, since anyone can wield a lance competently from the saddle. It would allow them to rapidly respond to any threats on the fringes of our county, as well as more easily avoid danger and better inform us of potential and incoming threats. It would also allow rapid redeployment of our all too few manpower resources between the outposts, and allow any future outposts to retreat from most dangers, likely saving lives. That said, it would likely be best if we ourselves were the ones to explore and clear out these outposts. Which I believe we should certainly do, mind. As my men, few as they are, are still rather ill-equipped and only just starting to really take to their training. I suggest this to try and make most efficient use of our resources, while conserving as many lives as I can.
At Valeska's prodding he rubs his chin for several moments. He seems as if trying to decide something, glancing between Valeska and Valda. He seems to decide on a course of action as he finally speaks.
I don't see why not, being given positions on the counsel would certainly be quite the reward for their aid. Though, it may require removing or reassigning those already on it. Something I have no doubt some would find.. displeasing. To be frank Valeska, you are much better suited for such things than I am. I spent most of my life either as a guard or mercenary. I have picked up things here and there, but.. I'm certainly no statesman.. That said, I do fear it may worry the people if upon our return we instate two new council members, potentially removing a former member to do so. Unless you meant to hire them more as.. mercenaries, in which case I think the funds, depending, would be well spent.
He seems to wait for a response before saying more.
My wish is to balance Kain's zeal for swift and strong armed forces with a healthy economy.
I believe this is a transitional time for Canterwall, and as such all manner of things will be rather... fluid. I'm happy to manage the "politics" of it. She early shudders, obviously not liking the term, as good as she may be at it.
What's with the colorful wagon, do you reckon?
"I-i-if I may, Kain, I will say that Sister Valda's history and background is one that would disarm the usual untrusting nature that permeates Ustalavic culture. In fact, among those that consider themselves traditionalists, they may favor her appointment into a position. It could only be a good sign." The paladin of Andoletta would be quite the asset and help assure those who may doubt the legitimacy of the countess's appointment. Change was something to be feared by most within Ustalav but change disguised in the cloaks of tradition could trick the most stubborn of minds.
"As for myself, I am a graduate of Lepidstadt University. It is one of the greatest centers of learning in the known world, championing the nature of science and magic. I do not feel any would begrude the countess for electing me in the position. In fact, that...that is why I am here, to help Canterwall transition into this bright, new future." Looking towards Bashuk, he would gesture to the fiery half-orc. "Our new comrade is, most certainly, going to be an unusual official to be inducted into the council. With my own and the countess's words, we can certainly soothe any ruffled feathers. It'll be a welcomed challenge." The scholar did sound quite hopeful and excited for the challenge of adjusting the status quo of his homeland. It would start in the most unlikely place.
As the two ladies approached the colorful wagon, Nikolai would quietly encourage and compromise with his dark stallion to follow behind them. The horse showed the poor man kindness this time around.
Bashuk grunts at Kain's speech. "Taking the forts, or at least clearing them out, would be good. Our alliance is toothless if we're separated by others who hold those strongpoints. But unless one of you has a genie or a god in your back pocket we're not going to be rebuilding enough walls to make a difference anytime soon."
"Our new comrade is, most certainly, going to be an unusual official to be inducted into the council. With my own and the countess's words, we can certainly soothe any ruffled feathers. It'll be a welcomed challenge."
The half-orc nods in quiet gratitude, as that concern had been lurking at the forefront of her mind the whole trip.
Valeska speaks softly before her gaze follows Valda, as the warrior moves closer to the wagon.
That you each will hold title, is not in doubt. Exactly what that title may be and when, I shall think on. Let us not rush things.
Patience is a virtue, as hacknied as that adage may be. For now, you two should report to General Brandt. He is more than fair and open-minded. Valda may be the obvious fit, but for you doctor... logistics. Ushering us into the future, indeed.
As you approach, a man in a colorful motley comes round the wagon with an armful of firewood. He looks up and takes notice of you, suddenly dropping the firewood with a start.
"Well howdy, folks! A fine evenin' to you all! I wasn't expecting no travelers, but sometimes even the Gray Lady offers a smile," he says, offering his own slanted smile and tilting his cap by way of greeting.
"I am Doctor Emrer Evets, purveyor of poultices, pungeants, potent potables, and plenty of non-alliterative miracles! Despite the late hour, might I interest you in an energy tonic? After all, the trail has a way of beating even the toughest among us with a switch, don't it?"
Kain will approach the cart ahead of Valeska. He will call out
Hello, and good day! Is anyone there?
He strikes an imposing figure, mounted as he is on his griffon, but his face and mannerisms project a friendly atmosphere.
The doctor seems wary of Valda and keeps his distance, but he remains yet gregarious with the party as a whole.
"I just finished wintering up in Tamrivena. As soon as news of the county split reached me, I gathered up my wares and hoofed it on down here.
"I was a bit dismayed to learn that I had just missed the new countess and her coterie, since they departed on an excursion of some sort. So, I've been making my way among the farmsteads out here on the moors, peddling my wares.
"Hopefully, with some new leadership, the folk in Ravengro won't receive me so coldly when I roll into town. Still, they could hurl cabbages at me and it'd still be a damn sight better than what I find out in the eastern reaches of the county."
The doctor offers an exaggerated shudder.
"No siree, you won't find me or my wagon out that way no more."
Bashuk manages to stop staring at the wagon long enough for Doctor Evets' words to register. "East...did you just come from there? What did you see?"
Nikolai stalks nearby the man's goods as he speaks to the others; his ears lingering on the conversations while his eyes look over the variety of poultices, potions, and other miracles that this Doctor Evets had on him. Conmen and charlatans were a common type of traveler and the man's schtick fit the bill of exactly the kind of cover such a person would have.
"Well, I haven't dared go too far past Ravengro in a few weeks, but I can't imagine things have much improved. You folks look like travelers yourselves, so if you were planning on venturing eastward towards Ardeal, let me give you some advice: don't.
"I've seen empty fields where only a season before there was a village. I've heard frightful howls in the night, pursuing my wagon. There's some wicked things going on in that half of the county. That new countess doesn't know what she's in for.
"So if you need to travel to Ardeal, take the long route north, through Tamrivena and Lozeri. It's longer, but it'll help keep your life longer, too."
Regarding his wares...most of them amount to little more than bathwater flavored or fragranced with wild plants of dubious quality. Perhaps befitting his past as a Pharasmin, his priciest items can best be described as watered-down potions of cure light wounds.