"GIVE US A SECOND, KID."
He takes a single step away from the kid and turns to confer with the others.
"A QUEEN WILLING TO MEET US ON GROUND OF OUR CHOOSING. THAT'S SOMETHING. ANY IDEAS? THE HEART WORKS FOR ME, BUT WHAT DO YOU THINK?"
During those several days of waiting, anyone who is even semi-observant notices that Tetsu seems very uncomfortable with all the attention, and even after only a day of it tries to sequester/isolate herself so that no one can find her unless they are specifically looking for her
Firas will check with the vendors to see if anyone has a wand of Divine Favor for sale.
The page stands patiently while the group discusses.
1100 [DM allowed]
1005
900
Cold iron cestus (10)
Just wow.
So after replenishing the alchemical stuff and buying what I could find I have about 3500 left if someone wants to borrow. (Or if there is 500 I could borrow we try for another CHA booster)
4000 so there is another one around
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Firas is nearly speechless after Coop shares that it was Iomedae herself who visited each of their dreams. He spends a good amount of time praying to both Iomedae and Sarenrae, expressing his deep gratitude for their investment in him, and his devotion to their service.
When the page arrives and extends an invitation to an audience with the Queen, he is further dumbfounded.
"My friends, fortune continues to smile on us. If we ever had any doubt in our deeds, it is clear that we are on the righteous path! However, we know that much of Golarion is still blissfully unaware of the threat on our very doorstep. Let us meet with Queen Galfrey, so that she may put out the call far and wide of our desperate need here. I agree with Cupradhal," he says with unusual formality as he stiffens his posture while discussing royalty, "Defender's Heart seems a fitting site for meeting with her majesty and to demonstrate our need and our capabilities."
Coop nods and turns to the page.
"ALRIGHT, HUDDLE OVER. PLEASE CONVEY TO QUEEN GALFREY OUR PROFOUND PLEASURE THAT SHE WOULD GRANT US THE HONOR OF AN AUDIENCE AT THE DEFENDER'S HEART. WE HAVE BEEN HAPPY TO HAVE BEEN OF SERVICE TO HER, AND TO THE PEOPLE OF KENEBRES, AND HOPE THAT WE CAN CONTINUE TO AID THE WAR EFFORT HERE IN WHATEVER CAPACITY IS DEEMED BEST."
The page nods and smiles, offering a salute to the group before leaving.
Within just a couple hours the queen and her retinue arrive at the Heart. Very quickly a room is set aside for her to use, and another message is sent to the group, letting them know she has arrived and is ready to meet with them at their leisure.
Coop divests himself of his backpack full of stuff.
Dressed in his breastplate, with Iribeth's sword on his hip and the broken helm tucked under his arm, he'll approach the room where the queen awaits.
Not sure how supposed to act. Is like Shogun? Or Jade Regent? Not sure of proper....uh...manners?
Tetsu polishes her O-yoroi and pulls out several banners that attach to her armor.
Noticing the absence of the newest member of the team, Firas seeks out the tiefling.
"What troubles you, my friend?" he asks with concern.
Firas follows the lead of Coop and Tetsu, diligently scrubbing out the blood and filth from his gear until everything gleams like new. He also hires an artisan to emblazon his armor and shield with a combined holy symbol venerating both Sarenrae and Iomedae: the angelic ankh and radiant sword melded together.
George looks a little frantic with the upcoming arrival of the Queen. He seems willing to use prestidigitation over and over and over, to get at least himself and any of the others presentable.
Wracking his brain, his eyes turn pure black as he ponders.
Don't worry Georgie. We remember all sorts of things here in the Dark.
He tells the group of tidbits that should help with the meeting.
George relays information about protocol to the others, and also notices that something like this is a bit unorthodox for nobility.
Arriving at the room, the group finds the queen and two guards having a quiet conversation. As you all enter and approach, she stands and moves to meet you, her eyes looking over each in turn.
"It is good to finally meet you all. I hear you were quite instrumental in the victory here. Second hand accounts tend to... embellish details. I would very much like to hear what happened in your own words. I hope you are not too bored of telling the tale already." She smiles, though it is a smile of one who has much on their mind and hints at a hidden sadness.
Coop inclines his head slightly as a greeting.
"SURE! GEORGE HERE IS A CRACKERJACK STORYTELLER."
George makes an elaborate bow to the Queen.
"Your Majesty, I am not sure how much was fate, or the Goddesses using what they had on hand.
A quick summary that should cover the broad outline. We would be happy to elaborate as much as you like, but you must have many pressing matters requiring your time.
Coop, Firas, along with some other and myself were present when Terendelev has slain. We spend a few days getting back to the surface, but on the way discovered locations of enemy cells and were able to make allies of the descendants of the previous Crusades. Who might be willing to swear allegiance and provide skirmishers for recognition and acceptance.
On the surface there were some minor battles with forces looking to profit from the civil unrest and Irabeth, who has done a wonderful job keeping things organized, asked us to complete some tasks. As we were used to working together, and not tasked to any unit or location, we made excellent troubleshooters for her. Tetsu joined about that time and has proven to be a boon companion.
We were tasked with trying to destroy a fragment of the Wardstone, and with our new allies from down below, we set forth for the Grey Garrison. It was a hard fight, against all sorts of demons, undead, and cultists. Iomedae may have started whispering to us around then. Giving signs of places to visit and warnings of what lay ahead.
The Wardstone was destroyed, but the theory on what would happen was incorrect. Instead of draining harmlessly away," here he looks a little embarrassed, "all that mystical energy went into us. A Demon of great power, which I prefer not to name and draw her attention, took rage at this and set to destroy us. With the current still filling us, neither she or her allies were able to hurt us. Sadly the vast majority of that power has drained away. We have a touch left, but nothing like that day. Iomedae has since visited us in our dreams. There are rules that govern even the Powers, and she has aided us to the extent she currently can."
As George mentions the unorthodox nature of this meeting, Firas grows paranoid. Before entering the room with the queen, he concentrates for a moment.
While George regales the queen with the tales of their adventures, he raises an eyebrow, impressed at the retelling.
Crackerjack indeed! he thinks to himself with a smile.
Not like crowds. Am not feel good with attention. From her mannerism, it's obvious Tetsu is not used to people lavishing praise on her.
Some act like I great warrior, but I not samurai. I try follow bushido but hard sometimes with evil inside, always try make me break code
After being told of the visit by the Queen, Will meet with honored ruler
Firas detects nothing out of the ordinary.
The queen listens with rapt attention as George speaks. As he winds down to the conclusion, her smile seems much more warm and hopeful.
"That is quite the adventure you four have had." She takes in the room and lets out a small sigh. "Have you eaten yet? It is nearly lunch, and I have something to discuss with you all." She gestures to one of the guards and he heads out of the door.
Firas nods, "I understand. Rage boils in my blood, but the clerics that raised me taught me to channel it into strength against dark forces. I know nothing of evil inside you. I have seen your actions and they speak only of good. Further, my gifts as a Paladin for the Dawnflower include the sacred sight, and I have detected no evil in you. Do not let that self-doubt take hold. Iomedae herself has seen the goodness in you and granted you her blessing. Come, let us me the queen. There is work to be done!"
As the room passes muster, he gives a knowing nod to each of his companions to convey it is safe.
Firas bows low at the queen's compliment and offer of hospitality, "I thank you, your majesty. A hearty meal would be most welcome. Provisions have been scarce during this time, though I must praise the work of the inn. They have become quite the base of operations, sheltering and caring for so many."
"What is it that you wish to discuss? We are eager to press the attack, while we have the demons on the run."
"I COULD EAT." Coop says.
After a short time, the guard returns, followed by a couple of the inn's workers carrying trays. They set the trays down and bring each person a plate of food. The same rations that everyone gets at the Heart. Even the queen gets a plate and motions for all to sit and enjoy.
Once everyone has had a chance to sample the food, she begins to speak.
"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!"
"I'M HAPPY TO GO AND RECOVER YOUR FLAG, BUT I DON'T KNOW THE FIRST THING ABOUT COMMANDING SOLDIERS."
"We're sending three specialists with you. Aron Kir was a cleric of Shelyn here in Kenabres before the temple was destroyed—he can help with healing as needed, but he’s also quite knowledgeable about demons and their tactics. Sosiel Vaenic is an expert on siege tactics, traps, infiltration, scouting, and the like; he’s where you’ll be getting your map of the Citadel, incidentally. And lastly, there’s Nurah Dendiwhar. She’ll be supporting you with her bardic magic, but she’s also an expert on the region and knows more about Drezen than anyone in Kenabres at this point, I’ll wager. I’m also going to be sending an army of crusaders with you. There’s only a hundred of them, but they’re all devout paladins of Iomedae. It’s not a large army, but you’ll be able to move without attracting attention. Trust me, that’s an advantage when it comes to demonic foes. They hit hard, so it’s best not to give them the opportunity.”
The queen pauses for a moment considering, then adds, "If you four do not feel confident to lead, I have heard that Irabeth Tirablade was instrumental in organizing the troops here, she maybe be willing to assist you in this."
"SHE'D COME. BUT ANEVIA WOULDN'T LIKE IT, AND I CAN'T BLAME HER."
"THAT'S QUITE THE ESCORT, YOUR MAJESTY. I THINK ITS A HECK OF A PLAN. IF I HAVE TIME, I'D LIKE TO DO A BIT OF RESEARCH ON DREZEN MYSELF, IF I CAN CONSULT A LIBRARY."
George nods as the Queen speaks. "It is a shame that some seek to blame us for the happenings. When I pass, I will be judged, so will leave the mutterings to those. Reclaiming land for mortals, removing the stain from this plane, that is what is important to me. That the kingdom gets morale and a powerful artifact to help in the crusade, just make it more appealing.
Irabeth would make an excellent commander. She has proven an able administrator here. If she feels she could serve better by staying, perhaps Firas could lead. He may not be a paladin of Iomedae, but the Dawnflower is a worthy ally."
Firas bows to the queen, "Thank you for your majesty's praise. I will admit that I came here seeking the glory of past crusades. However seeing Terendelev fall and the demons rise up, that naive pursuit has been replaced by a duty to aid in the war effort in any way that I can. That duty led me to these amazing companions," he says with a gesture to his allies, "and others not here today. Together we have achieved far more than I ever hoped when I made my pilgrimage here. Our work is not done, and I would gladly accept your mission to recover the Sword of Valor. Forgive me, but I must ask clarification. Is this a blade or a banner which we seek? You refer to it as both."
"These experts will be welcome additions to our team. I would warmly welcome Irabeth's aid in this effort as well. I agree with George, that she has certainly proven herself to be an excellent leader, though I share Coop's concerns that she may not be willing, having only recently been reunited with her wife and she may be more needed here."
He places his hand to his breast and lowers his head to George, "Thank you, my friend for your endorsement. I don't know what manner of leader I could prove to be," he says as he turns back to the queen, speaking forcefully, "but I would dedicate every ounce of my energy to be the best that I could, if the task falls on my shoulders."
"And George is absolutely correct, I wholeheartedly believe that The Inheritor and The Dawnflower must work in tandem if we are to have any chance against the demonic horde. I took an oath to serve Saranrae, and Iomedae has seen fit to give me a personal blessing, so I revere and serve both in this cause." he says as he proudly displays the new symbol on his shield and armor.
She smiles to Firas, "It is a sword in name only. It is a tall crimson banner, meant to be carried by the forces of good, or even better, displayed as a protective warding on crusader grounds."
Watching the brief discussion about leadership, "The role is available to you Firas al-Adil, should you choose to accept it. Or another can take your place. The decision is yours."
Turning to address Coop, "As I understand it, the Librarium of the Broken Black Wing was destroyed in the initial incursion, but I'm sure you could find some source for your studies. Best not to tarry too long, so we can get the army moving and keep the advantage on our side."
As the luncheon wraps up, "One final thing of note, as it seems your are all in agreement to take on the quest, there is a small bit of ceremony involved. It is obvious by the glances lady Tetsu has been giving that attention is not something she is overly keen on, but it is necessary in this case. In order to lead, or join the Crusades really, you will need to be knighted. Best to do so in sight of others, as witnesses. If you are ready, we can attend to this now in the main hall."
Tetsu bows deeply at being recognized by the queen, opens her mouth to start to say something, then closes it.
For cryin' out loud girl, the ways of these gaijin aren't our ways. A woman can speak up without actually being addressed by a ruler. Well, I think she can.
"THAT'S FINE, I'M A FAST READER."
"WITH...ALL DUE RESPECT, YOUR MAJESTY, I'VE SEEN THE BEHAVIOR OF MANY OF THE KNIGHTS OF AVISTAN. NOT AMONG YOUR CRUSADERS, MIND YOU, BUT KNIGHTS OF TALDOR, ESPECIALLY. AND THE HELLKNIGHT ORDERS, EVEN THE CUDDLIER ONES. THEY ARE OFTEN, AH, NOT IN LINE WITH MY ETHICS; NOT IN LINE WITH THE WAY ONE LEADS A MORAL LIFE. WHAT ORDER WOULD WE BE JOINING, AND WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES ARE THERE? WHAT'S THE OATH?"
"I... I would be honored, your majesty." Firas says as the weight of the task sinks in.
"We just popped on the scrying bowl of lots of political entities. A public declaration of our willingness to submit to proper authority could help lower the risk. Hopefully keeping some from seeing us a potential threats to the system. And another thing to bolster the Queen's prestige. Other kingdoms would probably see this in a good light."
The queen stands and heads towards the main hall, beckoning the others to follow. Once she arrives, there are hushed whispers spreading through the room as more and more of the crusaders turn their attention towards her.
"With this recent invasion and attack on our lands, the call goes out once again to any able bodied person, to stand and fight. To drive back these demons and to free our homes from their vile influences. These four, have been blessed by the gods themselves, and have agreed to help drive back the darkness."
She pulls out her longsword, it's sharp edge evident. Standing before each of the four, she taps them with the flat of the blade and then gives a nod.
Those assembled give a raucous round of applause and offer to buy drinks for the group.
Queen Galfrey holds up her hands to get the attention of the room again. "It is also during these times that we need more leaders. Those that are willing to step up and take the reigns of command. It is my understanding that there was an individual here that started rallying the survivors and get them back into organized units. She took on the role and did an amazing job at it. I would like to officially recognize Irabeth Tirablade."
The half-orc had been standing off to the side with Anevia, hearing her name, she blushes and gives a small wave. The queen motions for her to join her, and she does.
"In appreciation for what you have done for the city of Kenabres, I would like to promote you to the rank of Captain."
Irabeth blushes even brighter, but gives a big smile. "Thank you my queen, I am honored."
More cheering sounds.
After the ceremony, Coop performs his obedience to Kazutal, travelling throughout the community discussing problems, mediating conflicts, and giving advice as best he can.
He'll then spend the remainder of the time available studying what lore remains in the city.
George heads over to congratulate Irabeth afterward. "It is good that you now have the title to reflect the work you have actually been doing around here."
After the ceremony, a somewhat confused Tetsu asks, What Queen like? She make me samurai but I not know if can serve with honor if not know what she like.
She suddenly blurts out, palm to head as if trying to silence her thoughts. Not listen to you. and quickly walks away before anyone can answer her question.
Asking around, George finds that most of the locals recognize the names, but are uncertain where to locate them.
At Tetsu's outburst, a few strange and confused looks follow her as she exits the area.
Coop shares this information with the group before finishing his preperations to leave the city.
DM choice, but energy resistances/immune/weakness would be nice.
As the day grows long, one of the knights approaches.
"I hear ye were asking after a few folk. Have ye checked the war camp on the outskirts of town? I heard that cleric fella has gone out there to ready for a march."
As this is happening, the queen and her crew appear to be readying to leave the Heart as well.
"AH, WELL THERE YOU GO, GEORGE. LET'S GET TO GETTING."
"Indeed. It would be good to meet the men and women under our command."
Coop tips a wave to the queen as he prepares to head out.
George bows toward the Queen. We will do our best.
George will write up a note to Horgus, thanking him for his assistance and hopes that things go better with some stability returned.
Once the message is set up
I think we should grab our stuff and start bunking with the rest of the troops. I would hate for their first impression is that we are setting ourselves above them. Staying in an inn, while they are sleeping in tents.
Once outside of Defender's Heart, the Queen is clearly moving along the same path towards the army camp. Eventually she drops back and keeps pace with the four of you.
"Looks as if we're headed to the camp, so, may as well stick together. I can give introductions once we arrive. Oh, I had forgotten something earlier. You new knighthood also comes with some perks. It may seem a bit... excessive at times, but accomplishing certain deeds will bring medals as rewards. I know some of you may balk at the recognition, but they aren't just fancy pieces of adornment. Each comes with special magicks attached to them."