1) Fine print that would make the contract unfavorable for the ones signing it. This is an efreet after all.
2) A possible loophole to escape the contract, in case of unforeseen circumstances.[dice=Linguistics, guidance]1d20+7+1
[dice=Stella, Aid linguistics]1d20+3-1
With your investigation done it seems to be a rather straight forward contract. Though there is no mention of ramifications of breaking the contract.
The one signing here will do their utmost ability to protect and secure Greenwatch.
Quince chuckles, "Sulvanii is a showman. Its part of his charm. The 'contracts' are not magically nefarious. Your will remains your own. Folk of Brevoy and points north understand the obligation of an oath or agreement of service." He pauses a moment, "If we thought you the sort to betray us. The offer would not be made. If you are willing to serve Greenwatch we hope that you would declare it."
He pauses a moment and says thoughtfully looking to some of the long serving members and people of Greenwatch, "The Greenwatch grows I am glad to see new blood to rise to the occaision," He looks to the newer allies, "I hope you will." He chuckles grabs a few grapes from the table, "Some of you are long in the tooth, getting thick around the middle and have wives begging for children if you don't have any on the way as it is." He moves back to his chair still smiling but grows thoughtful, "Growth of an enterprise even a nation calls its leaders to narrower duties, delegation and begs for fresh hands to continue to thrive."
Zsófia does her best not to look startled by the efreet's sudden appearance, or the terms of his contract. She lolls in her chair, smiling.
(Chizzlall, however, drops his brush and stares agog.)
"I feel like I've already pledged to serve Greenwatch, but I'll gladly sign something to that effect," she adds with a smirk. "If you need me to swear fealty to my overlord as well, you need only ask."
As long as they do not require me to give up my allegiance to The Eternal Rose, she thinks wryly. Though there are many here who worship Erastil, I do not think there is an official faith yet. If there is, I suppose we will burn that bridge when we cross it!
"By Shelyn's light, I do solemnly give my word," she adds as she signs the paper. "I pray that the goddess guides my hand to defend our lands to the best of my abilities."
Quince winces at 'fealty to my overlord' but listens on. "Greenwatch would accept your pledge. I was chosen by the council as Lord Commander." He looses interest in threading the needle of trying to explain how Greenwatch is neither an aristocratic nation like its Breyvic sponsor nor as radical a democracy as Galt or Andoran.
Ulricha pays close attention to the explanation, watching both Qunce and the Efreeti closely. If the outsider had granted many wishes to the council, having them also sign contacts to some form of loyalty, it was possible that the genie was the true ruler of Greenwatch, while pretending only to serve.
Does it even matter? This power bears watching, but if the people are protected and the lands respected, would it be worth the cost?
Efreeti? Eh, my last boss signed contracts with worse then that. He only got into trouble when the thought renegotiating that contract with threats.
The Bloodrager chuckles
I wish to realize my fiendish potential without having my alignment altered.
He states his wish
Vandomir stands with his arms crossed and inquires, "so then, now that you have all sold your souls, what's next?"
Having gone over the document, having seen her father done so in past business deals as well, and not spotting anything that would pose harm to the one signing it.
"Would it make you feel any better, if a Desnite says that there is no enslavement in this document? Nothing that would open up excuses for unholy retribution.", her expression somewhat questioning, but also optimistic, as she smiles a bit at Vandomir.
After signing Jorrast hears Vandomir's comment. He shrugs at the man and lifts a mug of ale. "I feel no different. Perhaps because I was already looking for the best way that I could serve Greenwatch? Next? I'm going to enjoy the good food and drink and see what everyone else chooses."
Look, this is actually smart! One of my granddads got frisky with a certain species of demon, so I am a quarter fiend, and this seems like a way to like, rule my fiendyness rather then let it rule me. And like, do you have any idea what some a&!!$+!s do to get such powers? I was kind of resolved to never go down that route but now...
Vandomir nods, "Yes, I feel much better for you all, and the decisions you have made. I ask only that you accept my own decision in this."
Zsófia shrugs. It's no skin off her back if Vandomir chooses not to avail himself of a magical wish, and she could hardly protest since she was herself waiting to make her formal request in a more private setting. Though she uncomfortably felt that something had happened when she announced her intention and signed the contract, even though she had been careful not to use the word "wish." Can this genie read my intentions? she wonders. She would have to pray on it, later.
She perks up at Quince's mention of 'new blood' and 'fresh hands'. "Forgive me, Lord Commander, but are you suggesting that you might invite new members to serve on your council?"
Vandomir nods, "Yes, I feel much better for you all, and the decisions you have made. I ask only that you accept my own decision in this."
He asks civilly, as a simple smile resides on his face, "So you are choosing to claim an item from my Repository or will you be out right refusing the generosity of the Council?"
He seems to have read your mind and telepathically states, ::I try not to read my allies intentions but you have intrigued me. You seem so brash and yet quiet.::
Also what is the most pressing current desire of your mind?
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Saren seems boyish and merry. He also let's things slip from his wet whistle. At hearing Zsofia's question he blurts out, "Why else would we pluck the most delectable individuals for a mere mercenary brigade?"
A message spell links up with everyone in the room, he states, "There are no other plans tonight. Feel free to act as you wish. The next few days will be leisurely for the mercenary brigade but once our reports come back from Delev we will form the Council."
Once all have had a seat Bearik states, "Lord Commander would you please bless this meeting with a prayer before we begin."
As Sulvani addresses Vandomir, the intent behind the 'gifts' seems even more sinister. Her new allies had a wide range of experience and knowledge, and if need be, working together they would likely be able to find a way to overcome the creature, should the intent behind things turn out to be evil. Besides, she trusted Alice's review of the document.
Taking a deep breath she focuses on the parchment. ”I wish to embrace the giant blood awakening in my veins, manifesting and learning more of the power inherited from my father, as I follow my mother’s path.”
Zsófia frowns. Outsider, you need not invade my thoughts to learn my opinions! she thinks with a hint of anger. You could simply ask me!
She has powerful doubts, for she assumes that he has already read her mind and she worries what he has found there. She wonders if the wish was triggered when she said "I pray that the goddess guides my hand to defend our lands to the best of my abilities." She wants to serve her goddess, but also she selfishly wants Shelyn to notice and reward her piety, and she fears that such a wish would make her look proud and superior, so she intends to pray on it and make her wish in private, if possible. She believes it is essential to appear humble and congenial at court, because she wants to impress the council in the hopes that when she brings up the matter of her title they will be well-disposed toward her.
Zsófia leaves the gathering with a troubled look.
She returns to her rooms, with Chizzlall in tow, and once they are inside she explains to the gnome what happened. "I must pray, to ask for guidance and to marshal my thoughts. Perhaps together we can work out how I should word my intentions for that fiery wishcrafter's contract. I would ask to receive one of The Eternal Rose's celestial servants to watch over me and give me wise counsel, and to help protect me against my rash or base instincts that would not be pleasing to the goddess. As I navigate the choppy waters associated with obtaining title to my father's lands, I feel that her influence would help me maintain an even keel in the face of adversity. What do you think, my friend?"
Chizzlall shakes his head. "It sounds to-Chizzlall like you already have-thought it out, bright-lady. Not much-help is Chizzlall."
"And anyways Chizzlall knows-nothing about-boating. Chizzlall has a bad sense of it, for-boating."
The next day Zsófia seeks out Sulvanii to formally make her wish, and then explores the capital city. Firstly on her mind is finding other Shelynites, preferably with some sort of shrine or temple, though in this she is disappointed. She tours the mercantile areas, seeing what sort of wares Elkheart has for sale, though she has no intention of spending any of her wages yet. When possible, she asks about the other council members, to get a sense of how they govern. She would dearly love to sit in a tavern and listen to all the gossip of the realm, but she worries she doesn't have the time to really learn much, and she doesn't want to get distracted from her focus on what is happening in Drelev.
She also learns a bit more about Chizzlall's origins and what brought him to Tazlford. She makes a mental note to look into the trolls in the southwestern Narlmarches as soon as she has leisure to pursue a personal quest, in gratitude for his loyal service so far.
Zsófia frowns. Outsider, you need not invade my thoughts to learn my opinions! she thinks with a hint of anger. You could simply ask me!
::That may be true but what about your desires? Your spark reminds me of one of my reviews lovers. I could but when such a beautiful bird comes around I must do my best to learn why.::
☆☆☆
The next day she stops by his office his butler offers, "My lady do you have fire protection? If not please accept a ring for your meeting."
Within you find the room seems to be filled with living flames. All sorts of critters run around making fires. He sits behind his desk flipping through a tome made of steel pages.
Zsófia accepts the ring with only slight hesitation and slips it on her finger before striding confidently into the room. She is slightly distracted and off-balance by the creatures skittering about, but she somehow manages to handle herself with aplomb. "Greetings, Lord Sulvanii," she says pleasantly, sketching a slight bow as to a colleague. "I am here to redeem my reward for joining Greenwatch and faithfully serving the defense of the realm. I have already signed your contract and so all that remains, I believe, is to state the terms."
She takes a deep breath, pausing a moment in case the efreet wishes to interject anything.
"I wish, if Shelyn does not object, to summon one of Her celestial servants to follow me and act as my guardian angel for at least one year, or longer if mutually agreed upon; to guide me, advise me, and ensure that my actions in defense of Greenwatch and in all other matters are in concert with the will of the goddess."
He asks civilly, as a simple smile resides on his face, "So you are choosing to claim an item from my Repository or will you be out right refusing the generosity of the Council?"
Vandomir bows, "Ahhh, no. I had misunderstood. I had a belief that to do either would require the oath to the genie. In either case, no offense was meant to you, or the council. I will gladly avail myself of the Repository of magic things. What sorts of magic saddles or flying gear can be found there?"
Vandomir spends his evening eating some of the more common foodstuffs available. His years in the Sable Company have left him with no real palate for delicacies. As things wear down, he finds a likely haunch or roast, and spirits it off to feed Rocinian. He scrubs and brushes her down while she eats, and finally, he pulls out his bedroll, climbs in, and leans against Roci's side to sleep the night in the stables with her.
Once the meeting is over, Xandarian's need to test his wings was extinguished, his mind fretful that his 'spiritual promotion' came with a heavy lock and chain.
The paladin asks around to find the nearest tavern.Once located, Xandarian (and to a lesser extent, Boffy) argue with the tavern owner about the drink voucher. After several minutes, the bar owner accepts the voucher, and drinks pour like a waterfall. When the morning comes, Xandarian and Boffy awake on the bar's floor.
One the second day, Xandarian seeks out Alice Emmington, to repay her kindness and to get to know the fellow 'formerly' free-spirit.
Once the discussion about the wish and/or the contract has died down Jorrast enjoys the food and drink, and camaraderie of the group. He doesn't have any significant shopping to do, or the funds to get anything that he really wants, but enjoys time learning more about the town and the people while waiting for the counsel meeting.
Though she sees no traps in the contract, even the legal rant further down, Alice is not so quick to hop aboard on such short notice. For one used to travel a lot, she has to think it over.
"This is a rather quick procedure. Please pardon my hesitation for immediate signup and wishing for something, council members. I've not before had taken time or opportunity, to think on wishes before. And personally, there are goals i set for myself in the long term, that would bring me to other countries."
"That is not to say i will not give my all while i am in these lands. Merely that i need to sleep one over on this."
She looks towards Sulvanii, if there are no objections.
"I will come to you first thing in the morning with my choice."
----------
After the meeting, Alice likewise enjoys the food and drink provided.
Similar to Xandarian, she pays a visit to the local tavern. Meet the locals, taste the atmosphere of the place. But she will retire to whatever accommodations have been made available to them.
Vandomir bows, "Ahhh, no. I had misunderstood. I had a belief that to do either would require the oath to the genie. In either case, no offense was meant to you, or the council. I will gladly avail myself of the Repository of magic things. What sorts of magic saddles or flying gear can be found there?"
He quickly replies, "No worries but neither is a pledge to me. Just Greenwatch.
I believe there is a simple magical Sable saddle that only confers the ride bonus and the drawback is your skin color changes each time you mount.There is... no... that one is a flying saddle, like a flying barrel. You must come peruse the Repository and I will check the records if I have any more saddles."
"I am here to redeem my reward for joining Greenwatch and faithfully serving the defense of the realm. I have already signed your contract and so all that remains, I believe, is to state the terms."
He quickly intersects, "Straight to the point without any pleasantries. I had higher hopes for you... maybe your mind is dull like a club. As many 'smashers' have done in the past. But I digress."
☆☆☆
"I wish, if Shelyn does not object, to summon one of Her celestial servants to follow me and act as my guardian angel for at least one year, or longer if mutually agreed upon; to guide me, advise me, and ensure that my actions in defense of Greenwatch and in all other matters are in concert with the will of the goddess."
At the wish he ponders on it for a moment. The he muses, "Shall we ask before making such a wish? You are not a divine class are you?"
There are rooms for you in the castle. You are slated to stay in the West wing with the rest of the mercenary brigade. Magic was strongly used in the crafting of the castle.
Or is there freedom for travel in less troublesome times? Pilgrimages to the 7 towers of Desna, is what she set for herself.
"That is not to say i will not give my all while i am in these lands. Merely that i need to sleep one over on this."
She looks towards Sulvanii, if there are no objections.
"I will come to you first thing in the morning with my choice."
Sulvanii nods and simply says, "No worries, no rush."
"I believe there is a simple magical Sable saddle that only confers the ride bonus and the drawback is your skin color changes each time you mount.
There is... no... that one is a flying saddle, like a flying barrel. You must come peruse the Repository and I will check the records if I have any more saddles."
Vandomir considers, "well, I am not that concerned with my skin changing color, but I am also not that concerned with my riding abilities. Ahh well, I appreciate your having looked."
He quickly intersects, "Straight to the point without any pleasantries. I had higher hopes for you... maybe your mind is dull like a club. As many 'smashers' have done in the past. But I digress."
Zsófia shrugs at the interruption. "No doubt," she lies. If she still resents him for his uninvited visit to her mind, she gives no sign of it. "Though I prefer to think of it like a diamond," she adds cheekily.
At the wish he ponders on it for a moment. The he muses, "Shall we ask before making such a wish? You are not a divine class are you?"
Zsófia blinks. "You have some way to ask the goddess directly? I have prayed upon it, and though I am not a cleric or priest, I feel confident in my heart that Shelyn would approve. Though of course Her ways are not ours, and perhaps I could be wrong."
Zsófia blinks. "You have some way to ask the goddess directly? I have prayed upon it, and though I am not a cleric or priest, I feel confident in my heart that Shelyn would approve. Though of course Her ways are not ours, and perhaps I could be wrong."
He sighs and resigns himself, "Alas no I don't have the ability, I know others do also there are a few items I could use... but if you have prayed on it and feel confident she would approve then the wish can be made. Which avenue would you like to try first?"
While in town, and at the inn, Alice inquires about Jorne. She had seen skilled warriors on her travels, but such combat prowess he displayed in battle that day, was on another level.
Did he consume something alchemical that had lasting effects, had he been blessed by something powerful?
Whatever answers she might get, she will go over things she've seen, read, or heard of before.
Peering out of the window, looking at the stars above, she wondered what would be something useful for both being in unknown lands, this new band of people she works with. Sure, one could save up to buy equipment, but a wish to improve odds and safety doesn't just appear on display in a store. She hadn't seen a cleric among the others, other than the pretty Katrina. But even Katrina couldn't be with them at all times, and Alice herself only had so much to tap into for healing. But then an old tale came to mind.
Though she would have to word it carefully, wishes were tricky things.
=================================
Before breakfast, she seeks out Sulvanii.
"Good morning. I have considered the whole wish and signing situation, and i will agree with it."
"To put my wish into context, i would give you a description from an old battlefield journal i read several years ago. It was a story of a young human woman soldier, who turned the tide of a battle against a horde of undead lead by a death cleric.
She was fervently faithful to her patron, and in their darkest hour that day, as she was about to fall, a miracle happened. A sphere of light engulfed her, and when it dissipated, she came out physically stronger, faster, but much more durable in particular. It seemed even the very fiber of her skin was denser, that a blade needed more thrust to harm her, and even then she'd recover from it given time. Not just that, but her aura and looks became more alluring, as if her fellow soldiers looked at a source of inspiration and strength. The death cleric had crippled most of the unit with their channeled negative energy and cold spells. Yet she seemed to resist a decent part of it every time, and topped it off by being able to channel healing energies herself, despite not being a cleric herself. And get this, that happened 100 years ago, when she was 20. She supposedly still walks, not having aged a single day since."
"She received a divine blessing, became a better version of herself, as if she were a beacon of life force that gave hope to those around herself. I've seen places that could have used such a person, and with the stories of impending conflict, let alone the conscripted civilians we've picked up today to prove that, these lands might benefit from such a person. So my wish, is to get that package and become such a beacon, for the people here."
Vandomir stands with his arms crossed and inquires, "so then, now that you have all sold your souls, what's next?"
Quince smiles and asks with a mirthful smirk, "The Sable Company expects no oath? There is no vow said at the end of the academy? No expectation that you serve the interest of Korvosa?"
Zsófia shrugs. It's no skin off her back if Vandomir chooses not to avail himself of a magical wish, and she could hardly protest since she was herself waiting to make her formal request in a more private setting. Though she uncomfortably felt that something had happened when she announced her intention and signed the contract, even though she had been careful not to use the word "wish." Can this genie read my intentions? she wonders. She would have to pray on it, later.
She perks up at Quince's mention of 'new blood' and 'fresh hands'. "Forgive me, Lord Commander, but are you suggesting that you might invite new members to serve on your council?"
Quince looks toward Zsofia, "That is the implication. The process would continued future service and some time of apprenticeship/oversight of folks already managing those responsibilities. But our Kingdom has thrived. 3 years and a few months back this palace was a wooden ruin fort alone in the forest set on the water. Now there is a great city here and a land filling quickly."
Once all have had a seat Bearik states, "Lord Commander would you please bless this meeting with a prayer before we begin."
Quince nods, standing and begins to pray his voice ringing out, "Great Elk Father, we call on your aid at this time of war and peril. We guide us in your wisdom as we seek a way forward." His prayer ended he looks up, "I know folk who look to other gods are here. I would invite you to pray also. It is not insult to Erastil, that other gods might bless our efforts here." He gives space if any others wish to speak.
In the end he thumps his scepter on a wooden disk on the table near him.
He addresses the Council as well as those invited to the proceedings, "It seems that war we did not seek comes for us again." He lets that statement sink in for a moment. "Unlike the forces of the troll Halgura our foes this time are also folk not unlike us. Women and men of Brevoy, folk eager to make a new life in a new land, and hardy folk who have lived in the once called 'Stolen Lands'." He looks throughout the room toward those gathered. [b]"Yet that is a superficial connection. Make no mistake. This council has led these lands into prosperity, stability, and given them to tools to grow strong. The leader in Drelev sends conscripts whose children are hostage to take from those who have done no ill to his lands or people."
"The attack that came for us. Has shown us more than the military mind. But the character of its leaders. The soldiers we met have shown that there are not many willing to give their lives to see Baron Drelev's machinations furthered. We have already begun arrangements for more intelligence on the situation. My own mind on this . . . is more complicated than anger. A military response is called for here but I think it would be a mistake to not recognize that we are the second victims in this struggle. As Baron Drelev's own people suffer." He sits nodding to Bearik.
After completing her wish, Ulricha continues to celebrate with her companions, eating and drinking as the night wears on, feeling assured that her wish had been granted despite the lack of any obvious outward sign.
Come the following morning, that would change drastically. Upon sitting up she first notices that the bed, previously a massive affair with ample room, now seemed to just manage to fit her, and the room itself seems skewed, as if seen from a different angle. O
Odd. She wasn't hungover, and she felt fine...in fact she felt better than fine, her heartbeat calm and strong, her body felt healthier than ever. Standing up, the skewed perception seems to increase, bringing sharply into focus what was actually the issue. She was bigger.
Looking around, she'd easily grown at least half a foot overnight, her entire body growing in perfect proportion. Where before she had been quite the Amazon, she was now a truly iconic specimen of a woman. Though concealed by ample flesh, she could feel the raw power in the muscles beneath, her arms and legs surging with strength.
Getting into the bath, she was glad that the tub provided had been a big one before, she marvels at the changes, quickly bathing, and taking stock of herself in the full length mirror after drying off, though she actually has to stand back a few feet to do so. She would have to see about having her armor taken out and getting new boots.
Dressing the best she could in what clothing she had, she resolves to go shop for something better fitting. But first, she was beyond hungry. She heads out to find breakfast and her new companions, eager to see the reaction to her giantkin awakening
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Dressing the best she could in what clothing she had, she resolves to go shop for something better fitting. But first, she was beyond hungry. She heads out to find breakfast and her new companions, eager to see the reaction to her giantkin awakening
Xandarian got some early morning flying lessons from Boffy, and flew up to the castle gate. The caydenite paladin landed near a scandalously-dressed Ulricha.
"By Cayden's Bar Tab, Ulricha! You look like you've been poured into your armor! Very attractive and daring fashion choice", Xandarian smirked.
Vandomir stands with his arms crossed and inquires, "so then, now that you have all sold your souls, what's next?"Quince smiles and asks with a mirthful smirk, "The Sable Company expects no oath? There is no vow said at the end of the academy? No expectation that you serve the interest of Korvosa?"
"Oaths are one thing. I am happy to take the standard oath of allegiance to the nation, as would be expected of any member of the Mercenary Brigade. A magically induced oath to a genie, that's a different deal."
When offers the opportunity to add a prayer to Goodly gods, Jorrast offers a quick prayer to Daikitsu. "Some might not consider the Lady of Foxes to be 'Good'. But I feel that her focus on agriculture and community aligns her with this land."
When he finishes his comments about Baron Drelev's forces he asks, "Are we possibly considering a rescue? of the hostages that he holds to control his drafted army?"
While in town, and at the inn, Alice inquires about Jorne. She had seen skilled warriors on her travels, but such combat prowess he displayed in battle that day, was on another level.
Did he consume something alchemical that had lasting effects, had he been blessed by something powerful?
[dice=Diplomacy, guidance]1d20+15+1Whatever answers she might get, she will go over things she've seen, read, or heard of before.
[dice=Kn. Arcana, guidance]1d20+14+1
[dice=Kn. Planes, guidance]1d20+10+1
[dice=Kn. Religion, guidance]1d20+8+1[dice=Kn. Aid other from Stella]3d20-1
Many of the folks would tell you he is a good man, down to earth, and helps with their problems. He is very approachable. Though of late his loved one Cleo has passed, from then on he hasn't been far from the Lord Commander. They would tell you he could out drink a tavern's patrons before getting tipsy. So he has a massive Constitution, but they haven't seen such alchemical items but also they haven't seen him in much more than a brawl.
Almost as if saying his name enough times Jorne enters the same tavern Alice is in looking for answers.
Kn. Arcana DC 30: The most common way one becomes sublime is on the positive energy plane, or a magical location dense with the same stuff. There is a special magical liquid that could confer the template. Finding the Lost Library of the Mistress would help with the research.
Kn. Planes DC 25: There are many stories of simple mortals coming out of situations and being blessed with the abilities to shine.
Kn. Religion, DC15: The sublime template has its origins in positive energy, it would only make sense that a god or goddess of healing would be at the source of it.
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With the prayers settled and a motion from Quince he offers up, "Our first item is that of Kisandra Numesti. Please come forth and give witness."
Kisandra walks forward from the hallway. Dressed in her soldierly attire including a sheathed sword and a chain shirt. She further explains about the recent developments in the Drelev Demesne, including the imprisonment of her father and the taking of her sister as a hostage by Armag.
She pleads for your help, praising your skill and renown for problem-solving while also urging them to overthrow Drelev and save her people from the Tiger Lords. She asks you to repay Drelev for his treachery by forcing him cede control of the kingdom—Baron Drelev is a craven bully
who, if left in charge of the Drelev Demesne, will cause the death of hundreds. Furthermore, she asks for you to save her father from the dungeons of Drelev Keep and her sister from the clutches of the Tiger Lords.
Kisandra has little in the way of personal wealth to offer in payment for these requests, but she does pledge her family’s loyalty to the Greenwatch if they accept her quests. She also points out that if you can liberate Fort Drelev, its beleaguered citizens will certainly treat you as heroes and join their nation.
She can certainly sketch a map of the town, but she doesn’t want to return there until the baron has been dealt with and her family rescued. She does, however, have one more thing to offer the name of a possibly ally in the town: Satinder Morne, the proprietor of Fort Drelev’s gaming hall and brothel. Kisandra puts a jade ring worth 200 gp on the table which can prove to Satinder they’re friends. While Kisandra is hesitant to admit how she knows Satinder, she tells the you that Satinder is no friend of Baron Drelev despite the fact that the mercenary guards who now serve as the city watch are among her best customers. If they’re looking for a safe place to hide in Fort Drelev, they should mention Kisandra’s name to Satinder and give her the jade ring with a long-stemmed flower of any kind threaded through the ring itself.
Stalker stands up and waves his hand over the table which reveals a 3D topological map of the city. He points out, "We have had trouble getting anyone inside of the fort to have a more accurate map. Though from several servants' mouths, darker things have descended upon the fort and have fled. The mercenaries continue to prowl the streets making sure no one flees from the town. My suggested course of action would be to send the Mercenary Brigade in several points of entry as the Wraiths eliminate the mercenaries."
Dressing the best she could in what clothing she had, she resolves to go shop for something better fitting. But first, she was beyond hungry. She heads out to find breakfast and her new companions, eager to see the reaction to her giantkin awakeningXandarian got some early morning flying lessons from Boffy, and flew up to the castle gate. The caydenite paladin landed near a scandalously-dressed Ulricha.
"By Cayden's Bar Tab, Ulricha! You look like you've been poured into your armor! Very attractive and daring fashion choice", Xandarian smirked.
Ulricha let's out a laugh at Xandrian's comment, amused by the widening of the aasimar's eyes.
" Thank you Xandrian, though I'd call it less a choice than a discovery."she replies.
"Though not as... dramatic as yours, It looks like my wish was just as effective. And it would seem that giant blood is more than most tailors and armorers are prepared for."
"Oaths are one thing. I am happy to take the standard oath of allegiance to the nation, as would be expected of any member of the Mercenary Brigade. A magically induced oath to a genie, that's a different deal."Quince chuckles he looks around trying to piece together who was in the room and near enough to hear. "Right. That's why I said that what Sulvanii is calling contracts are not magically nefarious. We have all heard the stories of planar creatures and devious wiles. Sulvanii has been with us for a few years now. Our people are free, our leaders are of their own minds, if you fear is that of magical compulsion that is not involved. I am servant of Erastil. Forcing folk to do good is not doing good nor is their forced action virtuous. Sulvanii knows that the council nor I would allow such a thing."
Alice makes her way over to Jorne's table, raising a slightly her right hand in a short wave at shoulder height.
"Good morning Jorne, may i take some of your time?
There is something i want to ask you about, in relation to that prowess you displayed earlier."
When the drinks come around and she is sitting, she raises a glass of ale. "Thank you, cheers."
After a few gulps, she puts the still half full tankard down.
"There's something...special, about that whole standing alone, king of the hill style. People say you are sturdy as a rock, and a spitting image of someone in pique health. It reminds me of an old story, and i am curious if you were a similar case. If so, how you came to obtain it."
She relates the story she will later tell the efreet.
"...which has me questioning, did you receive a similar divine blessing? If so, how'd you get to that point?"
With the prayers settled and a motion from Quince he offers up, "Our first item is that of Kisandra Numesti. Please come forth and give witness."
Kisandra walks forward from the hallway. Dressed in her soldierly attire including a sheathed sword and a chain shirt. She further explains about the recent developments in the Drelev Demesne, including the imprisonment of her father and the taking of her sister as a hostage by Armag.
She pleads for your help, praising your skill and renown for problem-solving while also urging them to overthrow Drelev and save her people from the Tiger Lords. She asks you to repay Drelev for his treachery by forcing him cede control of the kingdom—Baron Drelev is a craven bully
who, if left in charge of the Drelev Demesne, will cause the death of hundreds. Furthermore, she asks for you to save her father from the dungeons of Drelev Keep and her sister from the clutches of the Tiger Lords.
Kisandra has little in the way of personal wealth to offer in payment for these requests, but she does pledge her family’s loyalty to the Greenwatch if they accept her quests. She also points out that if you can liberate Fort Drelev, its beleaguered citizens will certainly treat you as heroes and join their nation.
She can certainly sketch a map of the town, but she doesn’t want to return there until the baron has been dealt with and her family rescued. She does, however, have one more thing to offer the name of a possibly ally in the town: Satinder Morne, the proprietor of Fort Drelev’s gaming hall and brothel. Kisandra puts a jade ring worth 200 gp on the table which can prove to Satinder they’re friends. While Kisandra is hesitant to admit how she knows Satinder, she tells the you that Satinder is no friend of Baron Drelev despite the fact that the mercenary guards who now serve as the city watch are among her best customers. If they’re looking for a safe place to hide in Fort Drelev, they should mention Kisandra’s name to Satinder and give her the jade ring with a long-stemmed...
Quince listens to Kisandra's tale, "Do you know where the Armag has your sister imprisoned?"
Quince looks to Stalker at the mention of Satinder, "There is an in. I know the city is closed up tight but perhaps your agents can use the 'air corps' wands, fly in invisibly and go to this gaming hall. What do you think?"
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Quince chuckles he looks around trying to piece together who was in the room and near enough to hear. "Right. That's why I said that what Sulvanii is calling contracts are not magically nefarious. We have all heard the stories of planar creatures and devious wiles. Sulvanii has been with us for a few years now. Our people are free, our leaders are of their own minds, if you fear is that of magical compulsion that is not involved. I am servant of Erastil. Forcing folk to do good is not doing good nor is their forced action virtuous. Sulvanii knows that the council nor I would allow such a thing."
”Milord, as a newcomer, and one not versed in the arcane arts, I must politely decline to take any such oath, nonetheless. I would, however, be honored, if you were to choose for me some object from that closet of cursed items, should you deem it appropriate.”