Kingmaker: Blood for Blood!

Game Master BloodWolven

There has been at least a year of peace and growth! Greenwatch continues to swell with the watchful Council. Though it is not to last unless the Council can handle the army approaching...

Many of you are greeted as new retainers. Many of the most most experienced applicants are collecting the in the dining hall before we travel to Elkheart. The long elegant dinning table sits about forty. At the far end you can see someone eating his food with a calmness. There are maids and butlers at the edges of the room ready to serve. Once you have a seat a maid comes up and asks, "What would you like to drink and eat, we have many dishes prepared."

Please introduce yourself as you enter the dining hall.

A tall muscular handsome man with short, wavy cerulean hair enters the dining hall. His hair and his deep eyes of teal denotes an otherworldly ancestry. He wears finely crafted chainmail armor, with a mithril heavy shield peaking just above his shoulders. On his hip hangs a fine rapier with a hilt in the shape of a tankard, and a bright, yet heavily worn copper tankard.
Following the blue-haired stranger is a dirty brown hare, eagerly looking at his surroundings.

"Hi, everyone. I'm Xandarian Quartermain, one of the new retainers."
Xan takes off his heavy gear then sits down next to the other occupant at the table, and greets them.

Once you have a seat a maid comes up and asks, "What would you like to drink and eat, we have many dishes prepared."

One of the butlers steps forward and offered the menu. After giving it a glance, Xandarian agrees, "I'll have the duck, with some perch on the side."

As the butler and maid leave, Xandarian reaches across the table to grab two small biscuits and drags the butter nearer to himself. The paladin butters both biscuits, leaving one in front of Boffy, who quickly plants his face in the buttered biscuit to eat.

A smallish, fox-headed man (kitsune of course) strolls into the room, pausing just long enough to note the man seated at the far end of the long table, and the blue haired human? seating himself. When the dirty hare leaps to the table top Jorrast grins and quickens his pace to pick a seat across the table from him. "Brought your own dinner to the table? Just kidding. Familiar or something like it I'm guessing?"

He pauses and then remembers that an introduction might be in order. "Oh, I'm sorry. Living alone in the woods so much I forget myself at times. I'm Jorrast Feorte, also one of the new retainers for the brigade, originally from Ordu-Aganhei in Hongal. Course unless you are a student in geography I doubt you've even heard of the country. It's a world away!"

He sets his pack with the strapped on crossbow behind his seat and sits down. "I heard duck, and did you say that perch is on the menu too? And properly cooked, not raw like I'm used to? Excellent! And a sweet white wine would go well with that for me."

He glances over to the quiet man to see if he is reacting to the newcomers by him. "Guess I should've asked. I didn't see any name tags or such. It is open seating, right?"

Quince sitting at the table already is pouring over a map with a bowl of nuts and dried fruit nearby. He looks up at the boisterous entrance of Xandarian. He smiles, "Welcome Xandarian. I am Quince Medvyed Lord Commander of the Greenwatch. Eat and enjoy." He sees the hare hop up on the table. He picks a few pieces of dried fruit from his bowl and tosses it near the hare.

Zsófia enters the dining hall in a swirl of colors-- she wears ribbons in her hair and woven into her stockings, a finely tailored shirt and doublet, a feathered cap, a belt glittering with jewels, and a heavy cape that is cut in such a way as to be dark blue on the outside but alternating light blue, pink, red, yellow, green and purple on the inside. She moves quickly to an empty place near the others at the table, speaking in a rich alto voice. "Greetings, greetings, friends-- don't get up! I am the Lady Zsófia, pleased to make your acquaintance." She gives a little bow of her head to each guest in turn.

She doffs her cap with a flourish, takes off her cape in another whirlwind spectacle, and hangs both on the back of her chair. She does not remove the fine Aldori dueling sword at her hip, but her demeanor does not suggest hostility or defensiveness. She stretches her legs out under the table as she sits down, studying her new companions with bright eyes. "We are a motley bunch, aren't we?" she laughs. Her eyes dart suddenly to her side as the server murmurs to her, and narrow as she listens. "I'm sorry, what? Oh, yes, please bring me some of everything, if you wouldn't mind?" she responds. "And wine?" She looks back to the others. "If it's appropriate, of course. I hope we are not going directly from here into battle!"

A tall human male enters. He wears the unmistakable uniform of the Sable Company, although all specific insignia of rank, and other identifiers has been removed. He does wear leggings, and a vest that would probably not normally be worn by a soldier of his ilk. His hair is black and short, but he has an unmistakable widow's peak. He carries a longsword at his right side and a dagger at his left. He has a pair of gloves folded and tucked into his belt.

The man gives a shallow bow, "I am quite pleased to make everyone's acquaintance. I am Vandomir Jarvis. How may I be of service?"

------------

Vandomir reviews the provided menu. He nods to the butler, "the venison if you would please, and vegetables. Water will be more than fine to drink. Thank you." He snaps his fingers, "one more thing. Would it be possible to get a couple live ducks please?"

Jorrast had considered rising as the flamboyant, and good looking human woman arrived. He'd already made enough mistakes for common courtesy, but then she excuses everyone from doing so. "A little of everything? You must be quite hungry unless you want just a single bite of each? Lady Zsófia? While we are all in the Brigade would you accept being addressed simply by the name, Zsófia? I ask so that I don't insult in the future."

He nods to Vandomir, then adds to both. "Oh, and I am Jorrast Feorte, originally from Ordu-Aganhei in Hongal. But I'll accept Jorrast, or even Jor from my friends."

A smallish, fox-headed man (kitsune of course) strolls into the room, pausing just long enough to note the man seated at the far end of the long table, and the blue haired human? seating himself. When the dirty hare leaps to the table top Jorrast grins and quickens his pace to pick a seat across the table from him.

Xandarian looks up in amazement as a kitsune seemingly walks into the room and sit down across the table.

"Brought your own dinner to the table? Just kidding. Familiar or something like it I'm guessing?"

The brown hare seems to understand the kitsune, as he crouches down in a defensive posture ..and growls loudly.

He pauses and then remembers that an introduction might be in order. "Oh, I'm sorry. Living alone in the woods so much I forget myself at times. I'm Jorrast Feorte, also one of the new retainers for the brigade, originally from Ordu-Aganhei in Hongal. Course unless you are a student in geography I doubt you've even heard of the country. It's a world away!"

The blue-haired man rises slightly to give a bow. "I am Xandarian Quartermain. I am also a new retainer. And I am honored and gratified that you chose to show us your true form. It speaks of your openness and the fact you do not feel threatened."

Zsófia enters the dining hall in a swirl of colors-- she wears ribbons in her hair and woven into her stockings, a finely tailored shirt and doublet, a feathered cap, a belt glittering with jewels, and a heavy cape that is cut in such a way as to be dark blue on the outside but alternating light blue, pink, red, yellow, green and purple on the inside. She moves quickly to an empty place near the others at the table, speaking in a rich alto voice. "Greetings, greetings, friends-- don't get up! I am the Lady Zsófia, pleased to make your acquaintance." She gives a little bow of her head to each guest in turn.

Xandarian tore his eyes away from the shapeshiter to see.. a vision of his demise. A vision of Shelyn herself, if Xandarian didn't know better.

Cayden! I am doomed! The caydenite pleaded with his god. She's gorgeous!!

Xandarian did have to stop himself from standing

She doffs her cap with a flourish, takes off her cape in another whirlwind spectacle, and hangs both on the back of her chair. She does not remove the fine Aldori dueling sword at her hip, but her demeanor does not suggest hostility or defensiveness. She stretches her legs out under the table as she sits down, studying her new companions with bright eyes. "We are a motley bunch, aren't we?" she laughs. Her eyes dart suddenly to her side as the server murmurs to her, and narrow as she listens. "I'm sorry, what? Oh, yes, please bring me some of everything, if you wouldn't mind?" she responds. "And wine?" She looks back to the others. "If it's appropriate, of course. I hope we are not going directly from here into battle!"

The aasimar couldn't help but smile stupidly. One swift hind kick from Boffy to Xandarian's elbow brought the paladin back to his senses. "Some of us caydenites believe a few ales before battle actually is a benefit, Lady Zsófia. I am Xandarian Quartermain, paladin of Cayden Cailean. And I am pleased to meet you."

The man gives a shallow bow, "I am quite pleased to make everyone's acquaintance. I am Vandomir Jarvis. How may I be of service?"

"W-o-W! Sable Company!" Xandarian said impressed. "Nice to meet you, Vandomir! Damn! Greenwatch is bringing in the top shelf. Welcome!"

"A little of everything? You must be quite hungry unless you want just a single bite of each?"

Zsófia shrugs, as if she won't deny it. She studies Jorrast a bit more carefully as she waits.

"Lady Zsófia? While we are all in the Brigade would you accept being addressed simply by the name, Zsófia? I ask so that I don't insult in the future."

The woman straightens slightly, adopting a proud posture in her neck and head. "Her Ladyship, the Baroness, if you please," she says in a voice that suggests she has taken offense.

She holds the expression for a moment and then begins laughing, putting her head down on the table for a moment before rising with tears in her eyes. "Oh dear, please forgive me, sir. It has been ages and ages since I met someone who didn't already know my title and either disdained or resented me for it. That was cruel of me, I admit, and I promise I will make it up to you. But you were so sincere and kind! Thank you very much. After the trepidation I had been feeling about this interview it is good to lose myself for a moment in the gentle tremors of genuine laughter."

She composes herself, settling back into her chair again. "Of course you can just call me Zsófia. Honestly, for many years, 'Lady Zsófia' has been sort of my nom de plume here in Restov, and so I drop it like a handkerchief at our meeting to see who will pick it up. No one here takes it seriously, I am afraid. Not to say it wouldn't make me happy if they did... but I can hardly take offense that you who have just met me do not respect my rank. I dare say we shall see what that title is worth once our battles have been fought and won."

"I am quite pleased to make everyone's acquaintance. I am Vandomir Jarvis. How may I be of service?"

She turns to notice Vandomir enter, and she nods to him amiably. "Well met, sir, and likewise. I am Zsófia. Or you can call me Lady Zsófia if you want to make me feel special." She grins a little cheekily.

"Oh, and I am Jorrast Feorte, originally from Ordu-Aganhei in Hongal. But I'll accept Jorrast, or even Jor from my friends."

"Your company is my pleasure, Jor." she says with a flip of her chin. "I owe you a debt; I will not forget. When you have a moment, I should very much like to hear more about Ordu-Aganhey in Hondal. Have you traveled far?" It is obvious from her pronunciation that she has no idea where it is, but she seems genuinely curious.

"Some of us caydenites believe a few ales before battle actually is a benefit, Lady Zsófia. I am Xandarian Quartermain, paladin of Cayden Cailean. And I am pleased to meet you."

Zsófia leans back in her chair and openly stares at Xandarian for a moment. "A Caydenite paladin? Truly? But of course you must be. A great pleasure, sir knight, for me as well." She frowns slightly. "Sir knight? Is that right? I admit I do not know the proper address. I have heard of Cayden Cailean, of course, but I do not know very much of His ways. I do not wish to give offense to Him or to you. Am I wrong to suspect you come from further away than Brevoy? Taldor, perhaps? Surely not all the way from Absalom?"

She's talking to you! This is good!! Xandarian thinks.

"I am no 'sir', Lady Zsófia", Xandarian half bows in his seat. "Sirs come from noble houses and lawful organizations. I am from neither. I am the first of my kind, really. A caydenite paladin. My oath isn't really an oath, but a promise to keep the caydenite values of Good, Courage, Drinking, Spontaneity, and unwavering Devotion to Freedom. Xandarian is fine. Xan is better. I'm from Oppara, originally."

Xandarian looks to the edge of the table near Lady Zsófia. "Was that an actual Aldori dueling sword?! I only saw one once in passing."

Jorrast smiles as the blue-eyed and haired man calms the hare, confirming that it is no ordinary animal. He addresses it directly, "Yes Boffy! Of course I am kidding. I have traveled much and met many that appeared to be animals that were much more than they seemed. I am occasionally seen as such a creature myself. I've been told that my fur is soft and warm when I take my other form."

Turning his attention to the man he continues the smile. "In my, interview, I realized that much was already known about me, including my race. And if I am to work with a unit here I shouldn't hide what I am. I can assume the shape of a human, but I am not one. Why start friendships with a lie? I can also take the shape of a fox, but then I'm concerned that Boffy might think that I was threatening again!" He pauses with an even wider grin, then adds, "But please just call me Jorrast, or Jor. I'm hoping that we can be friends here."

He hears Xandarian comment about Vandomir and Sable Company and glances over confused. "Really? I haven't worked with military units much. Just done scouting and such. Can I get the 2 copper version of the Sable Company?"

Jorrast hears Zsófia's words and cringes. He'd already insulted....

But then she laughs. And he joins her. "I'm so glad I didn't offend. I'm from a merchant family that I just had to escape from. Boring! with a capital 'BOR'! Not a drop of nobility in my blood. So it's not that I don't respect rank.... I just don't must understand it. Seems every country has different titles and ranks and such. Kind of like how each military has their different ranks and such. I've always wondered if a General was equal to an Admiral in a military that had ground and naval forces. My guess is that the General would be the ultimate commander for ground troops and the Admiral would be in charge of all the ships.... But that's just a guess."

"So it is MY pleasure to have met you as well, My Lady Zsófia!"

"My oath isn't really an oath, but a promise to keep the caydenite values of Good, Courage, Drinking, Spontaneity, and unwavering Devotion to Freedom."

Zsófia smiles to herself, as if mentally ticking boxes. "A fine promise to make, Xan. I was raised in the Shelyn faith myself, but much of what you value as a Caydenite would not be out of place in Her temple, I think. Maybe a bit less drinking, perhaps?" She shrugs.

"Was that an actual Aldori dueling sword?! I only saw one once in passing."

"I'm sure you'll see a lot more of it in the future," Zsófia drawls, "but let's wait until after we eat before we start whipping out our steel." She looks around for the servers, and notices Quince still sitting quietly at the head of the table, studying his map. She purses her lips as if she is reluctant to interrupt him, but clearly she is curious who he is and what it is that so engrosses him.

A rather large half orc wearing well maintained and actually quite colorful attire enters the dining hall, steel clinking on account of the veritable armory on his back.

His tabbard displays the words "Your symbol could be here!" in a variety of languages including Abyssal.

Good day, I am Markus Lyranus, violence provision specialist.

I would certainly like to partake in the duck dish, with the salad, oh boy, good fresh veggies are great. He seems to be incredibly happy about the vegetables in particular.

Come to Markus Vitamins I missed you so much! He says as he digs in, although displaying pretty reasonable table manners.

Xandarian Quartermain wrote:

"My oath isn't really an oath, but a promise to keep the caydenite values of Good, Courage, Drinking, Spontaneity, and unwavering Devotion to Freedom."

Zsófia smiles to herself, as if mentally ticking boxes. "A fine promise to make, Xan. I was raised in the Shelyn faith myself, but much of what you value as a Caydenite would not be out of place in Her temple, I think. Maybe a bit less drinking, perhaps?" She shrugs.

Now it was Xandarian's turn to smile to himself. "But of course you are a follower of The Eternal Rose. Your beauteous countenance and effortless grace proceed before you like royalty." This would be where I'd start rolling Diplomacy checks if you were a NPC

A rather large half orc wearing well maintained and actually quite colorful attire enters the dining hall, steel clinking on account of the veritable armory on his back.

His tabard displays the words "Your symbol could be here!" in a variety of languages including Abyssal.

"Good day, I am Markus Lyranus, violence provision specialist."

"Come to Markus Vitamins I missed you so much!} He says as he digs in, although displaying pretty reasonable table manners.

Perception: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 1 = 14 Sense Motive: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (19) + 11 = 30

"W-o-W! Sable Company!" Xandarian said impressed. "Nice to meet you, Vandomir! Damn! Greenwatch is bringing in the top shelf. Welcome!"

He hears Xandarian comment about Vandomir and Sable Company and glances over confused. "Really? I haven't worked with military units much. Just done scouting and such. Can I get the 2 copper version of the Sable Company?"

"Sirs, the pleasure is all mine, to be sure, and as for the Sable Company, the past is the past. Shall we let it rest there?"

She turns to notice Vandomir enter, and she nods to him amiably. "Well met, sir, and likewise. I am Zsófia. Or you can call me Lady Zsófia if you want to make me feel special." She grins a little cheekily.[/b]

Vandomir bows deeply to Zsófia. ”Ahh, milady Zsófia, let me assure you that nothing I might say, or do, could possibly make you more special than you already are.” He surveys the room and takes note of the half orc's oddities. He turns, and whispers conspiratorially to Zsófia, ”milady, that one, Markus, has much more to him than meets the eye. The gloves, the armor. They are, custom made, and not fitting correctly. Some sort of shapeshifter perhaps?”

Ahhh vitamins how I missed you nom! Pills just arent the same nom

Ah now I feel better! He says as he looks a Xandarian

Pardon my manners, I have returned from a long term assignment which, I mean, the catering was actually pretty good, but the local fare was incredibly light on vegetables, fruit, and anything requiring sunlight. I mean, the main working class dish was something called "Hot Dog", which is a sausage of typically varied and uncertain provenance, in a bun, with some sauce and if you are lucky dried onion, or perhaps cheese, on top.
The mercenary demonstrates just this
A wide variety of spices was then added, to give it a semblance of varied taste
While filling, it wasnt particular conductive to building up additional musculature. I have alas managed to add certain improvements to the original receipe, as well as establish quality standard for the meat utilized.
However, this resulted in a bit of a conflict over vegetable trade routes in which, I am displeased to say, our adversaries prevailed. He says with some sadness

I am happy to be back on the prime material though! He announces as he eats more salad.

Vandomir listens to Markus' lament, "yes, well, a soldiers lot eh?"

A young woman of with long chestnut hair enters the room, circling around the knot of eating, drinking, and chatting people so not to disturb them and moving on up the length of the table to find an unoccupied place.

Her clothing is the practical and basic stuff of travelers, tough and durable fabrics with worn boots. A fur-trimmed cloak covers her, but a bandolier holding a number of vials is visible. From her belt hangs a couple of pouches, along with a small, one-handed axe and a couple of knives or daggers.

She sits down and waits to order. As she rests her elbows on the table, her rolled up sleeves reveal numerous tattoos crowding her forearms. She orders fish when asked. When it's delivered she begins to quietly eat.

Vandomir observes the newcomer. "It's always the quiet ones you need to watch," he thinks to himself.

"I am happy to be back on the prime material though!" He announces as he eats more salad.

"Wow! A planewalker!" The paladin chimes in. "I've heard of you folk."

Mercenary, not soldier, advantadge is that I can kind of chose my employers. Well, but then your employer makes some strange choices and you end up in really surprising places. Sable company? Air support is always welcome! Nothing is more frustrating then getting shot from above and not really being able to reply effectively! The merc announces raising a glass to the sable company soldier.

Not a planewalker, they are like, a special order or something? I am a merc who just happened to have fought in another plane. I got hit by a dismissal spell, got shunted back to the prime material, and my employer didnt contact me for 6 months so the contract ran out. I am owed a fair bit of backpay, but it would be very difficult to collect on that, as my outfit apparently got wiped out in the meantime, although I am not certain if personally, financially or both.
He speaks as if talking about the weather

With his food in front of him and a rather interesting group of.... companions? around, Jorrast relaxes and enjoys the fare. The wine was a good match both for the richer meat of the duck, and the more delicate flavor of the perch. He wonders how the perch would have tasted fresh from the stream but realizes that eating it live in this setting would have been rude.

He hears and acknowledges Vandomir's comment about leaving the past in the past with a polite nod. There are several things in his past that he'd prefer to forget. Maybe something like that....

When the large half orc introduces himself and sits down Jor has his mouth full. Rather than rudely speak with a full mouth, or spit the food out he takes his time chewing and swallowing. The others, mainly Xandar, engage the man in conversation so he enjoys the moment. With a lull he quietly asks, "'violence provision specialist'? That's an interesting turn of words, especially for someone who seems to enjoy vegetables and other good food. That 'Hot Dog' that you describe.... Well, it barely sounds like food, perhaps something that cruel masters might feed to slaves that they didn't care about?"

"No question in that statement, or none intended. I was finishing my meal as the others were speaking with you. I am Jorraste...." He stops himself from giving the whole name and where he was from. It really wasn't needed here. "But please just call me Jor. I'd prefer to be friends with those that I'll be fighting with."

He notices the young human woman with reddish brown hair quietly enter and sit at a distance from all of them. He considers moving to join her but decides to let her keep her space. She might change her mind and join the group later.... or not.

Its essentially a fancier way of saying mercenary. The good thing about Hot Dogs is that they can be made anywhere, dont turn you into ghouls, are easy to transport and can actually keep you going for quite a while.
Also, if I make them with proper ingredients they are actually fairly good. Obviously depends on the sausage quality, but with a certain sauce, fresh onions, diced cucumbers and spices they are nice even!

You are a Kitsune right? That may be about as unusual as planewalking mercs. Where exactly on this plane do you hail from? The Merc has somehow mastered the art of eating rapidly without ever speaking with his mouth full.

With his food in front of him and a rather interesting group of.... companions? around, Jorrast relaxes and enjoys the fare. The wine was a good match both for the richer meat of the duck, and the more delicate flavor of the perch. He wonders how the perch would have tasted fresh from the stream but realizes that eating it live in this setting would have been rude.

Xandarian let out a small hurray as his and Boffy's dinner was served, along with the requested two large glasses of red wine. The paladin took his large glass and raised it to the sky. "To Cayden!!!" Then took the large glass and drank deeply.

The paladin, acted as this was just normal behavior, ate his duck with the side of broasted perch with enjoyment.

Jorrast considers asking more about hotdogs when he hears a redeeming quality being that they don't turn you into a ghoul. While he did know what a ghoul was, he didn't know of any food that DID turn one into such a disgusting creature! But....

"Yes, I am a Kitsune. Normally I wear a human face so I don't draw too much attention." He demonstrates by shifting to his human form and back. "As to where I'm from, I assure you that there are Kitsune all over, but I am from Ordu-Aganhei, in the nation of Hongal. Hongal is at the northern most part of Tian Xia and is at one end of the Path of Aganhei, which leads over the Crown of the World to Avistan." He grins as he finishes that description then lifts his cup and adds, "And my tongue is almost as tired for describing that as my feet were for making that trek!" He takes a drink then adds again, "Well, maybe not...."

Vandomir quips to the short humanoid, "don't you mean that your paws are tired?"

"But of course you are a follower of The Eternal Rose. Your beauteous countenance and effortless grace proceed before you like royalty."

Zsófia blinks, then gives Xandarian a kind but suspicious look. "You compliment my appearance, do you? Well, since you're so charming I'll allow it," she says. "But most of the folk who have cause to get close to me regret it. It is not my beauty that makes me memorable but my skill with the blade, so you should be aware that I am unpredictable and dangerous when roused. The last man who hit on me lost a finger, so I warn you in a gesture of esprit de corps for our new company."

"So, Lady Zsófia. As a adherent of the goddess of Art, do you practice any of the muses, or as a Aldori, do you consider swordplay to be your 'art'?"

Zsófia's eyes flicker again to the sword at her hip, and she experiences what looks to be a flash of annoyance before she hides it behind a smile. "Oh, friend Xan, but I am not Aldori-- though it is understandable you would think so, for I do fight fiercely with the sword that their tradition made famous. I prefer to think of it as a ‘bravo's blade,’ for that is what I call myself and those who like me have had to learn their swordplay on their own. But to your question: yes, and a fine art it is. The spectacle of the duel is, for me, the pinnacle of expression. The drama! The skill! The relationships! The thrill of victory and the crushing sorrow of defeat. Have you ever seen a formal bout, Xan? It is truly a sight to behold, whether in the corner of a seedy tavern within a ring of drunken chanters or in the center of the high court with the king-regent acting as judge. I envy you, for the first time will take your breath away, I think."

She sits up as the servers bring in several sampler plates and a bottle of wine and place them before her on the table. She nods to them respectfully, and before reaching for utensils or glass she closes her eyes and murmurs to herself: "I thank the Eternal Rose for the beauty of this meal, and for the skills of the gifted craftsfolk who prepared it. In their honor will I appreciate the flavor and artistry in every bite, and remember them throughout the day. Love, always." Then she gets to work tasting everything.

She is so engrossed in her activity that she almost misses the newcomers' entrance, but she gives them each a little salute with her fork. She likewise smiles to Vandomir as he sits nearby, waving off his florid compliments with her mouth full.

"Milady, that one, Markus, has much more to him than meets the eye. The gloves, the armor. They are, custom made, and not fitting correctly. Some sort of shapeshifter perhaps?"

Zsófia swallows a morsel and then looks at Markus curiously. She listens to his speech, her expression slightly troubled by what she hears, but then she shrugs and nods amiably to him, as if granting him the privilege of continuing as far as she is concerned.

Jorrast glances at his hands (and feet) and bursts out laughing. Once he can control his mirth he replies to Vandomir, "Yes! Yes! Now you're getting into the spirit of it! I thought my hands and feet might have taken on some of my fox form. I've spent so much time in that form lately, scouting and avoiding troubles in the wilds that I wasn't sure. But I can't speak or hold a wine glass in that form!"

He takes another sip and calls for a second (and final for today!) glass of the good white wine. While he liked the taste he wasn't a Caydenite!

Vandomir nodded in approval. "I had heard that your people had a good sense of humor. I am pleased to discover it to be true. I met a bird-man once, a Strox, or some such thing. No sense of humor whatsoever."

"But most of the folk who have cause to get close to me regret it. It is not my beauty that makes me memorable but my skill with the blade, so you should be aware that I am unpredictable and dangerous when roused. The last man who hit on me lost a finger, so I warn you in a gesture of esprit de corps for our new company."

"Fair enough", Xandarian smiles to himself, and lets the topic drop.

"Oh, friend Xan, but I am not Aldori-- though it is understandable you would think so, for I do fight fiercely with the sword that their tradition made famous. I prefer to think of it as a ‘bravo's blade,’ for that is what I call myself and those who like me have had to learn their swordplay on their own. But to your question: yes, and a fine art it is. The spectacle of the duel is, for me, the pinnacle of expression. The drama! The skill! The relationships! The thrill of victory and the crushing sorrow of defeat. Have you ever seen a formal bout, Xan? It is truly a sight to behold, whether in the corner of a seedy tavern within a ring of drunken chanters or in the center of the high court with the king-regent acting as judge. I envy you, for the first time will take your breath away, I think."

"No, Lady Zsófia. Not as yet", Xandarian smiled. "I only learned the art of wielding the rapier from my adventuring partner, Boffy." The paladin nods to the hare with his legs twitching and sticking out of the nearly empty salad bowl.

"I only learned the art of wielding the rapier from my adventuring partner, Boffy."

Zsófia leans forward slightly in her chair to get a better look. "Ah," she hesitates. "Your mount?" she asks innocently.

"No. The hare", Xan said simply.

Shapeshifter? Well, kind of? I got a Bloodrage, but one of the more coherent and useful ones. Its a limited resource and metabolically challenging, so I would rather not use it just to demonstrate. Short version is that Gramps was part of the 21 an 23 offensives by the Hold of Belkzen into the Worldwound, together with them Mammoth lords. He returned both times, but well, enviromental exposure or perhaps something else. Never talked much about it.
He merrily announces to Vandomir
Why I am so open with that? I dont want you guys to go "URGH ITS A LARGE SIZED INCBUBUS KILL IT WITH FIRE!" in the middle of a fight He pauses

The effing s&@!ty-sin-ramheads are also resistant to fire, which I am not, if you got the option I recommend Sonic damage. But somehow, noone is ever "URGH ITS A LARGE SIZED INCUBUS! KILL IT WITH AN ORCHESTRA!" Even though that would work better! He adds

Jorrast chuckles at first to Vandomir's response, then makes some odd squawking sounds. He ends with a quizzical look on his face and pauses.

"No. The hare."

Zsófia maintains her innocent expression. "Is Boffy your mount?" she clarifies, indicating the hare with her fork.

"Oh. No", Xandarian answered, finally making the connection. "You see, Boffy is a Divine Emissary. Boffy was tasked by Cayden Cailean himself to train, advise, and assist me in my journey of paladinhood. I am a part of what Boffy said was..what was it called? Oh yeah! 'Target Research'. So, if Cayden is pleased with my progress, you may be seeing more caydenite paladins on Golarion."
"It's that amazing!" Xandarian smiled.

Zsófia looks pleasantly surprised by Xandarian's answer. "Oh! That is indeed amazing. I don't think I have ever before met someone with a divine emissary companion. You are blessed, it would seem." She involuntarily looks to the heavens in a moment of solemnity and then takes another bite of her meal.

She turns to regard the woman with the long chestnut hair. "You don't have to sit all the way over there, you know!" she calls out to her. "We don't bite. Well--" she gives the rest of the company a questioning look and continues, "Well, I don't. What's your name? Are you a member of our expedition also?"

Realizing that Vandomir didn't understand he switches back to common. "By bird man I assume you meant Tengu? From my experience they have an interesting sense of humor, but a lot of it gets lost in translation! I remember one of their jokes from when I was learning the language. Went something like: How many Tengu does it take to light a lantern? We don't like fire...."

Vandomir looks confused. "Hmmm, no, no, I've never heard of one of those. This fellow was a Strox, or a Trox maybe? Enormous wings, and spent his time harassing the Chelish"

Zsófia looks pleasantly surprised by Xandarian's answer. "Oh! That is indeed amazing. I don't think I have ever before met someone with a divine emissary companion. You are blessed, it would seem." She involuntarily looks to the heavens in a moment of solemnity and then takes another bite of her meal.

She turns to regard the woman with the long chestnut hair. "You don't have to sit all the way over there, you know!" she calls out to her. "We don't bite. Well--" she gives the rest of the company a questioning look and continues, "Well, I don't. What's your name? Are you a member of our expedition also?"

"Certainly no less amazing than a 'Lady' with a nom be plume 'sans' a body of writing under which she has used it."

There had been an ever so slight breeze across the room that seemed to ruffle the curtains at the window nearest Quince.
The rakishly good-looking new comer appeared seemingly out of nowhere, and smiled at the assembled before bowing to the Lord Commander.
KENDRYL

"I am Prince Zephyr of Jalmeray, Air Marshal & Prime Aeromancer of Greenwatch, Scion of Ranginori ... that said, my nom de guerre is Kendryl."
"So pleasant to meet you all tonight!"

Turning to Vandomir, "Quite possibly, the Strix to whom you were referring may simply not have understood two-dimensional humour. Fliers do tend to see things differently. Well, maybe not the part about harassing the Chellish, I think everyone sees that quite clearly."

"Certainly no less amazing than a 'Lady' with a nom be plume 'sans' a body of writing under which she has used it."

Zsófia politely waits for the man to finish his introduction, though her eyes narrow ever so slightly.

"I am Prince Zephyr of Jalmeray, Air Marshal & Prime Aeromancer of Greenwatch, Scion of Ranginori ... that said, my nom de guerre is Kendryl."

She picks herself up from her chair to stand next to it, and takes up her feathered cap from where she placed it earlier on the back. Briefly setting it on her head, she gives Kendryl an extremely florid bow, flourishing the cap in a series of seven circles. As she brings it forward, she bends at the waist and at the knee in a position as much like en garde as a bow. "Your highness," she says with careful precision. As she rises, she sweeps the brightly-colored plume back through the air like a riposte and hangs it again on her chair before depositing herself again in her seat.

"I hope you'll forgive me asking-- Kendryl?" she says his name like a title, "but where exactly is Jalmeray? I'm afraid I'm a bit rusty on lands further away than the River Kingdoms." She tilts her head. "I'm sure there must be a fascinating story behind you leaving one kingdom to serve another."

Kendryl wrote:

"Certainly no less amazing than a 'Lady' with a nom be plume 'sans' a body of writing under which she has used it."

Zsófia politely waits for the man to finish his introduction, though her eyes narrow ever so slightly.

Kendryl wrote:

"I am Prince Zephyr of Jalmeray, Air Marshal & Prime Aeromancer of Greenwatch, Scion of Ranginori ... that said, my nom de guerre is Kendryl."

She picks herself up from her chair to stand next to it, and takes up her feathered cap from where she placed it earlier on the back. Briefly setting it on her head, she gives Kendryl an extremely florid bow, flourishing the cap in a series of seven circles. As she brings it forward, she bends at the waist and at the knee in a position as much like en garde as a bow. "Your highness," she says with careful precision. As she rises, she sweeps the brightly-colored plume back through the air like a riposte and hangs it again on her chair before depositing herself again in her seat.

"I hope you'll forgive me asking, Kendryl, but where exactly is Jalmeray? I'm afraid I'm a bit rusty on lands further away than the River Kingdoms." She tilts her head. "I'm sure there must be a fascinating story behind you leaving one kingdom to serve another."

"A great kindness Lady, and not to be forgotten rest assured; but I also know that one of your background knows there is absolutely nothing fascinating ... about birth order. Because I know you also know that all the power and all the talent and all the passion of the planes will never change me from being a fourth son, and so I set out to find a place that needed power, talent & passion: I am proud to have landed in Greenwatch."

Kendryl smiles a rueful musing smile, "Their highnesses therefore, are my father and my older brother, long may they prosper. One day, please, accompany me to Jalmeray, and before that, walk with me to our Hall of Cartography? Jameray is located in the Obari Ocean off the coast of Nex, quite close to Quadira to the east."

Kendryl smiles again, glances around the table, notices Xandarian, and then seems to find it difficult to unnotice him.

"Strix? I've heard of them but never met one." Recognizing that the man had introduced himself as royalty Jorrast stands. He is confused that a prince had bowed to the quiet man with the maps. He bows slightly wondering about the proper procedures. "I'm sorry Prince.... Kendryl? I don't know proper etiquette. ?? And of course didn't recognize" He pauses glancing between Kendryl and Quince.

Then realizes that while he had recovered his composure Zsófia and the Prince had extended the conversation.... He continues standing, hoping to maybe just be ignored.

"Strix? I've heard of them but never met one." Recognizing that the man had introduced himself as royalty Jorrast stands. He is confused that a prince had bowed to the quiet man with the maps. He bows slightly wondering about the proper procedures. "I'm sorry Prince.... Kendryl? I don't know proper etiquette. ?? And of course didn't recognize" He pauses glancing between Kendryl and Quince.

Then realizes that while he had recovered his composure Zsófia and the Prince had extended the conversation.... He continues standing, hoping to maybe just be ignored.

"Please do not be concerned Master Jorrast, it is just Kendryl, possibly Marshall some day which is much more formal. My family title hardly matters here, Jalmeray is far too far away. As are the Strix, but truly both Greenwatch and Jalmeray are more welcoming for sure. Might I ask how you came to speak Tengu though!? I will admit that I am intrigued."

Woo Hoo that was a lot of posts. Gonna apologize for the wall of text below but so much to respond to.

A smallish, fox-headed man (kitsune of course) strolls into the room, pausing just long enough to note the man seated at the far end of the long table, and the blue haired human? seating himself. When the dirty hare leaps to the table top Jorrast grins and quickens his pace to pick a seat across the table from him. "Brought your own dinner to the table? Just kidding. Familiar or something like it I'm guessing?"

He pauses and then remembers that an introduction might be in order. "Oh, I'm sorry. Living alone in the woods so much I forget myself at times. I'm Jorrast Feorte, also one of the new retainers for the brigade, originally from Ordu-Aganhei in Hongal. Course unless you are a student in geography I doubt you've even heard of the country. It's a world away!"

He sets his pack with the strapped on crossbow behind his seat and sits down. "I heard duck, and did you say that perch is on the menu too? And properly cooked, not raw like I'm used to? Excellent! And a sweet white wine would go well with that for me."

He glances over to the quiet man to see if he is reacting to the newcomers by him. "Guess I should've asked. I didn't see any name tags or such. It is open seating, right?"

Quince smiles as the fox-headed man enters. "Perch? Not sure. Its good. Please take as you like." He looks over the papers before him, "I have ordered some maps, Jorast we can talk through your journey. First hand knowledge of such places would be valuable to our institutions of learning."

Wow lots to catch up on. Welcome to the new comers.

Zsófia enters the dining hall in a swirl of colors-- she wears ribbons in her hair and woven into her stockings, a finely tailored shirt and doublet, a feathered cap, a belt glittering with jewels, and a heavy cape that is cut in such a way as to be dark blue on the outside but alternating light blue, pink, red, yellow, green and purple on the inside. She moves quickly to an empty place near the others at the table, speaking in a rich alto voice. "Greetings, greetings, friends-- don't get up! I am the Lady Zsófia, pleased to make your acquaintance." She gives a little bow of her head to each guest in turn.

She doffs her cap with a flourish, takes off her cape in another whirlwind spectacle, and hangs both on the back of her chair. She does not remove the fine Aldori dueling sword at her hip, but her demeanor does not suggest hostility or defensiveness. She stretches her legs out under the table as she sits down, studying her new companions with bright eyes. "We are a motley bunch, aren't we?" she laughs. Her eyes dart suddenly to her side as the server murmurs to her, and narrow as she listens. "I'm sorry, what? Oh, yes, please bring me some of everything, if you wouldn't mind?" she responds. "And wine?" She looks back to the others. "If it's appropriate, of course. I hope we are not going directly from here into battle!"

Quince chuckles as Zsofia comments on the 'motely bunch' "Wouldn't have it any other way. . . even if I did its who ole Deadeye keeps sending." He sighs, "Directly . . . close enough. We have dire news from Tazlford."

He pulls forth a letter laying it out for any to read:

"Greetings, my liege lords! Would that I had the opportunity to contact
you via missive in gentler times. Since its founding, Tatzlford has
faced many challenges, but recent rumors of a much more disturbing
sort abound. A woman has come to Tatzlford bearing warnings that, if
they are to be believed, indicate we may face a terrible threat. She speaks
of armies of bandits, hordes of barbarians, and worse organizing to the
west beyond Hooktongue Slough. To date we have had no trouble with
these elements, but this woman is quite convincing. She tells us an army is
marching on Tatzlford. If this is true, we will need your aid in defending
our homes. Please come as soon as you can.
—In good faith, your obedient and humble servant, Mayor Loy Rezbin"

The news is not new, some have likely read the letter previously. Being the reason that the Lord Commander has started to gather folks here.

A tall human male enters. He wears the unmistakable uniform of the Sable Company, although all specific insignia of rank, and other identifiers has been removed. He does wear leggings, and a vest that would probably not normally be worn by a soldier of his ilk. His hair is black and short, but he has an unmistakable widow's peak. He carries a longsword at his right side and a dagger at his left. He has a pair of gloves folded and tucked into his belt.

The man gives a shallow bow, "I am quite pleased to make everyone's acquaintance. I am Vandomir Jarvis. How may I be of service?"

------------

Vandomir reviews the provided menu. He nods to the butler, "the venison if you would please, and vegetables. Water will be more than fine to drink. Thank you." He snaps his fingers, "one more thing. Would it be possible to get a couple live ducks please?"

Quince notes Vandomir enter and nods at the mans bow. He raises a quizzical eyebrow at the request for live ducks.

The woman straightens slightly, adopting a proud posture in her neck and head. "Her Ladyship, the Baroness, if you please," she says in a voice that suggests she has taken offense.

She holds the expression for a moment and then begins laughing, putting her head down on the table for a moment before rising with tears in her eyes. "Oh dear, please forgive me, sir. It has been ages and ages since I met someone who didn't already know my title and either disdained or resented me for it. That was cruel of me, I admit, and I promise I will make it up to you. But you were so sincere and kind! Thank you very much. After the trepidation I had been feeling about this interview it is good to lose myself for a moment in the gentle tremors of genuine laughter."

She composes herself, settling back into her chair again. "Of course you can just call me Zsófia. Honestly, for many years, 'Lady Zsófia' has been sort of my nom de plume here in Restov, and so I drop it like a handkerchief at our meeting to see who will pick it up. No one here takes it seriously, I am afraid. Not to say it wouldn't make me happy if they did... but I can hardly take offense that you who have just met me do not respect my rank. I dare say we shall see what that title is worth once our battles have been fought and won."

Quince notes the exchange and flinches slightly as Zsofia seems to have taken offense. He watches closely to see if the politics of Brevoy are going to muddy the court of the Greenwatch. As the tension eases and Lady Zsofia explains her mind. "I think you will like it here, Lady Zsofia. We have strong ties to Brevoy in family, numerous business, and they sponsored our initial efforts here. But Greenwatch you will find is a place were the worth of one's actions goes farther than the shadow of their name. We claim no innovation if government like the sort democro-whater-acy they have in Andoran. We have too many ties to Brevoy's history for that. But those who rise in rank of the Wardens make the Council and it is the Council that chose me as Lord Commander." He smiles uncomfortably noting that while his statement was accurate hoping that it did not come off as pompous.

You are a Kitsune right? That may be about as unusual as planewalking mercs. Where exactly on this plane do you hail from? The Merc has somehow mastered the art of eating rapidly without ever speaking with his mouth full.

Quince lets out a loud surprised laugh. When he realizes that eyes have turned his way. "Well Markus," the Lord Commander shifts his features shifting growing vulpine and the once blond human is now a golden-red fox-headed humanoid fox. "For many years I did not even know I that Kitsune is what my people were called. Then I met my wife, Elizabeth, also kitsune. Three among a few thousand here in Greenwatch is still quite rare.

[b]"I am Prince Zephyr of Jalmeray, Air Marshal & Prime Aeromancer of Greenwatch, Scion of Ranginori ... that said, my nom de guerre is Kendryl."

"So pleasant to meet you all tonight!"

Turning to Vandomir, "Quite possibly, the Strix to whom you were referring may simply not have understood two-dimensional humour. Fliers do tend to see things differently. Well, maybe not the part about harassing the Chellish, I think everyone sees that quite clearly."

Quince waves a hand Vandomir's way to indicate that is who he speaks of, "Oh Kendryl this is Vandomir. He is a hippogriph rider. He is the one I spoke to you of he was sent our way in the hopes of starting a breeding and training program." He looks to Vandomir and explains, "Kendryl is a flyer himself, he has been training some of our soldiers as part of an 'air corps'."

"I am Prince Zephyr of Jalmeray, Air Marshal & Prime Aeromancer of Greenwatch, Scion of Ranginori ... that said, my nom de guerre is Kendryl."

"So pleasant to meet you all tonight!"

Xandarian abruptly stands and bows at the exotic royalty, then motions to the maids that he would like two more glasses of wine, and sits back down.