Pyros has little to add, the idea seems straightforward enough to him. Kill the bandit, build a new state. Though of course, building a state was a ball of worms in and of itself. Even so, he feels moved to speak up. ”Surely not all of us desire rule. A mage might want a friendly government who would permit his esoteric research, a priest might wish to expand his faith’s following in this land, a merchant would surely desire a new state to open trade with, etc. Being on good terms with whoever takes the barony of this new Aldori state would bring benefits even to those who do not hold the barony themselves, I would think.”
"So whichever one of us kills this Stag Lord and brings his head back to you becomes the ruler of the Stolen Lands? Cassia called from her position with some of the other not nobles. She wasn't going to say it in Jamandi's earshot, but she couldn't help but think how there wasn't much difference between her method of seizing power and the bandits'
The politics of it all meant little to her, though the opportunity to explore and impact the wilds of the region, and protect the natural order while doing so was more than a little exciting. Bandits were always a problem, predators that couldn't be allowed too much rein, or they would choke the life out of everything in the region, like weeds. Centaurs attacking towns after decades of coexisting was also unusual, possibly a sign of something bigger being wrong in the region.
"I doubt it would be that simple, but when a predator falls, something has to lay claim to its domain." she replies to Cassia quietly.
Athrehon arches an already arched eyebrow and says to the two women, "Indeed. That is the way of things, fair or foul."
A pause and then he speaks a bit louder, seemingly so that those in charge might be capable of hearing him even over the din of those assembled speaking quietly amongst themselves. "It is noteworthy that there is far less being said about these centaurs than this so-called Stag Lord. Is it that there is less specific information to be had on their actions than those of the aforementioned bandits?"
Acknowledging the politics of it all, Harter listens silently to the offer. That is a big project, and he is more than willing to bring law into the land of bandits. He pats Ikit on the back and says "Well now, we'll just see how far your creations take us, eh?"
"Yes yes, make machines to make enemies quiver, make machines to make land best!" he tilts his head a bit and then continues "Ikit just want to create and build. No wanting to be boss of anyone. No no"
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As for the gnomme, you know niothing helpful.
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Maeric speaks, his voice carrying clearly across the gathered crowd, not loud, but firm. There’s a rough edge to it, a dry rasp that speaks of disuse more than weakness, and though the brass mask dulls its tone, the conviction beneath it is unmistakable.
“I didn’t come south for power or titles. I’ve no desire to rule, only to see something worth living for come of this.”
"That is most of the information we have now, enjoy the rest of the day and night, tomorrow we begin outfitting and planning."
With that, both Jamandi and the Mayor exit. Kesten helps with room assignments and dinner. Tartuccio begins recruiting in earnest.
"So sleep, then plan, good idea, yes yes. Need to be awake for big plans." he nods as Jamandi walks away
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Gaxi will make little “Psst” noises to get the attention of either Daxiana, Ikit and/or Piret and asks, in a whispering short broken Common, “What happening? What centaur? What Stag Lord?”
Dax doesn't speak Kobold but she tries to find a kind soul to translate what was heard so Gaxi doesn't get left out and she gives her own words as well as what Lady Jamandi said.
.....
When many others mention a lack of desire to lead, Daxiana smiles, glad to see it's not just her.
"Which ever I go to, I want to make things better than they were before I came. See some of the natural beauty. Have fun, do good, don't be an ass: That's my motto."
She's curious about the others, but is almost shy about the idea of accessing them.
She does wonder if Tartuccio is as big an ass as she first thought him?
Elenaril can't help but find something about the strange, dark, elven woman...unsettling... her voice...perhaps her pallor or the rhythm of her movements? She can't quite name it, so she studies her quietly, trying to pick up on some sort of hint.
Whatever question of religion, faith, or undeath, were present…well, Sven was oblivious to them.
Piret is surprised to learn of the much more sweeping and ambitious goals behind the expedition. She had taken what she knew of it beforehand very much at face value. A much more forthrightly political agenda than she had imagined doesn't really change things much for her though. At least she can't see any ways in which colonizing the "Stolen Lands" would conflict with her simple aims. Besides, the financial backing could make things easier.
Since she doesn't see herself as having much of a stake in a new polity, and even less in leading it, Piret doesn't ask any questions. She just listens to try feeling out what the people who might soon be her associates are like.
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Harter takes a second look at this Tartuccio and says "I'd also be willing to lead the expedition. I believe people will appreciate my willingness to uphold the law and to respect their traditions. Instead, of course, of trampling over everything." He keeps his gaze at Tartuccio and his nonchalant manners.
"Man-beast Harter can be boss, not that Ikit needs boss. Building no need boss, no no. Only workshop and material, and maybe a few hands for heavy lifting, yes yes. No trampling by Ikit. No big feets for that" he nods as he listens to the others and their desires "Maybe get big woman man-beast to do lifting. She looks like she can do that, yes yes" as he states at Amiri
Stanislaw had, somewhat begrudgingly, handed over his bow. He could probably find a weapon to use, but the bow was his preferred choice.
Answering Harter's question about his training, he said, "My priestly training was largely handled by the priest of Erastil at home, around the Grozni Forest. I wasn't assigned to a larger seminary school."
The warpriest of Erastil listened to Lady Jamandi and Lord-Mayor Sellemius's words, and others as they asked questions, quietly cataloguing information away in his mind. Having just arrived, he didn't know much about any of the others who spoke up. It seemed the purple gnome was incredibly ambitious and eager, however...perhaps too eager? He took a second look at the gnome, trying to figure out if there was an ulterior motive. It wasn't out of the question that if the Stag Lord had found out about this meeting, he would send agents to embed themselves in the gathering to sabotage attempts to defeat him.
As conversations around him pick up with the departure of Lady Jamandi and the Lord-Mayor, Stanislaw says, "You and I are in agreement on that, Harter. It does not sound like there are many settlements in the Stolen Lands with local traditions as it is, but there must be some people living there. Her words about the Nomen centaur raids in the Dunsward seems to indicate that there are some established settlements there, likely with their own traditions. Something must have stirred up the Nomen, if there had been relative peace for the past hundred years." Court politics were not as common in Medvyed lands, particularly along the Grozni Forest, but he'd learned enough to know that some conflicts were not as they appeared.
With a glance at Ikit, he said, "Tell me, Ikit, what sort of inventions are you thinking of building? Siege weaponry, perhaps, or some of the strange Numerian devices I have heard rumor of?"
"Oh! Yes yes! Big machines! Shoot magic lightning! Smashing door with 1 swing. Machine that launches magic explosions. But Ikit genius inventions, Ikit make all! Yes yes!" the ratfolk rubs his hands, happily explaining all the details himself knows
"Ah, I see. A combination of arcane magic and siege machinery. I've made no study of arcane magic, but I can see the applications to siege warfare. If the plan is to build a nation, other magical devices may be helpful, such as devices that allow for faster harvesting of grain, or hoisting and transporting large pieces of stone for buidling."
"Transport machines... Hmmm, Ikit could work on that too, yes yes, personal war machines too. Horses so untrustworthy, no no, make machine that rolls, fast like horse, much to think about about, indeed, yes yes!" as he digs out a small book with all kinds of doodles in it
Sven listened with a cautious ear, but one that was open enough to weigh the risk with the benefits. A tamed stolen land would indeed be the perfect place to conduct what he knew would be dangerous experiments. And once the benefits were realized, there could be a tidy profit in selling the completed projects. If there was a completed project, of course. As he did not know if the ratfolk had it in him to realize such dreams. Sven was, after all, careful in thought and action. Merchants who took unnecessary risks rarely stayed a merchant. Tall talk got his attention, but alone did not convince him. He idly wondered though, if it would even be possible to stop the ratfolk should the cost be too high. He doubted that any law would be a constraint to such a person, something which made him pause. Whomever would rise to a leadership position would surely have their hands full in enforcing order and maximizing efficiency. High risk…hopefully high reward, he concluded.
"Say, that dwarf's holy symbol, is that what I think it is?" Pyros says, quietly to Piret.
To the group as a whole, he says "While I have spent my life studying the blade, and am not sure that I desire the distracting tedium of a title, it seems only natural for a member of the Swordpact to lead one of these expeditions, organized as they are by Lady Jamandi. I am willing to serve in that capacity."
The elven wizard makes a small face at having his question about the centaurs be ignored by those in charge, but quickly shrugs it off. Athrehon then steps back to lean on the wall so he can watch the maneuverings of the assembled adventurers to take the reins of leadership.
Almost as an afterthought, he glances back at the two women (Cassia and Elenaril) and offers, "Oh. I humbly beg your pardon...it seems we were interupted by the announcements. Athrehon. My name is Athrehon, of the House of Silverthorn."
After taking it all in, Meredith nods.
"If I'm honest, I care little for the politics behind the drive for it, but liberating the lands from bandits and the like is a worthy pursuit in itself. I've never been part of any such expeditions, though. Is tomorrow morning enough time to outfit ourselves," she asks the small group she's with.
"If they've got enough prepped for us, I suppose. I'm taking my bow back when I leave this room regardless," She's still a bit sour about that.
Harter takes a second look at this Tartuccio and says "I'd also be willing to lead the expedition. I believe people will appreciate my willingness to uphold the law and to respect their traditions. Instead, of course, of trampling over everything." He keeps his gaze at Tartuccio and his nonchalant manners.
To the group as a whole, he says "While I have spent my life studying the blade, and am not sure that I desire the distracting tedium of a title, it seems only natural for a member of the Swordpact to lead one of these expeditions, organized as they are by Lady Jamandi. I am willing to serve in that capacity."
Daxiana listens as two more volunteer to lead. "Out of those offering so far, I'd probably lean more towards following Pyros, no offense meant to Harter but I'm a bit more 'follow your own arrow' type of girl rather than a law and traditions sort."
”Fair enough.” Sven said in response to Daxiana. ”And while I’m sure that your bow will serve the sword-lord well, I am comfortable following Sir Harter. A stable kingdom is built on law and traditions, and it requires a lord who is just. I’ll put my hammer behind his claim.”
There is a commotion near the back of the hall. "'Scuse me! 'Scuuuuuuuuse me! I was specifically summoned! Oh, what the... who closed this door?!" Someone struggles to shove their way through those dallying at the far end of the hall. Perhaps the newcomer is quite weak. Eventually the late comer extricates herself from the people near the entrance and is more readily visible, but it would be hard to miss her regardless. The freckle-faced young woman has large, vibrant aqua-green eyes and long, equally vibrant hair pulled into three thick braids dotted with small, colorful flowers. She wears thick, flowing robes that are almost certainly too large for her. The robes are all the colors of the rainbow, tied with a scintillating gold sash. Around her neck is a small, intricately carved holy symbol representing three women. To anyone not living under a rock, the three goddesses are Shelyn, Desna, and Sarenrae. The three are arm-in-arm with each other and tastefully nude. At least it might be tasteful if they weren't so... flatteringly proportioned. She is unarmored, but a scimitar - the favored weapon of Sarenrae - hangs from her golden sash, and a polychromatic holy text sits on the opposite hip. "Ahh!" She sighs loudly. "Sorry I'm late, but I just had to change into my robes for the party! You know how it is." She winks at a rather bedraggled looking half-orc who probably does not know how such things are. "What did I miss? Prolly nuthin', huh?"
She walks as centrally down the hall as she can, to be seen by everyone, grinning around at everyone. "So what's goin' on in here? Where's lady Jama... Eeeek!" She shrieks when she sees the ratfolk, waving her hands girlishly. She skips up to the ratfolk, crouching down with her hands on her knees to put herself at his level, which isn't a large difference as she is incredibly short herself. "You'resocuteI'mgonnadie!" She squeels, her cheeks turning even more red than normal. "I'm Elaina Newberry, priestess of the Radiant Prism! What's your name?!" She beams at the cute lil rat guy and his tiny whiskers. It takes all her self control for today and probably some of her self control from tomorrow not to pinch his fuzzy cheeks and rub his tiny ears.
Gaxi croaks, “No matter who leads, Gaxi help burn enemies.” He still stays close to those who hold the tongue of dragons. Hearing a newcomer shriek, the kobold jumped and scurried to a hiding place.
Ikit stumbles back at the sudden advance, his one paw instinctively goes for his cloak that covered his more advanced arm, but stop himself quickly enough as she greets him, he shakes his head and his nose twitches
"Woman man-beast! Do not advance so quickly, no no, Ikit could hurt her, yes yes." he warns before he straightens himself again and takes her figure in "Ikit, genius inventor and constructor of great machines! yes yes!" he proudly introduces himself
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As applicants in the room begin to lay out positions and opinions about the expeditions, and in some cases lobby for leadership roles, Piret decides she might as well be transparent about her lack of interest in such things.
"I'm here because I want to conduct a regional study the the Stolen Lands. I would like to survey and map the area, and catalogue its flora and fauna. There may be forms of life there that are at this time otherwise unknown."
"I'm not looking for land or title, just knowledge. Therefore, I have no interest in leadership of either of the expedition's groups."
"I would like to make a suggestion though. Working from the assumption we can all agree we would prefer competent leadership by a person or persons who will have our best interests in mind, it seems early to make any decisions. We have barely met one another."
"If we can agree leadership is a product of abilities and skills applied to managing people in order to achieve goals within an ethical framework, I don't think anything anyone can say here at this time matters."
"Instead of choosing a leader now so we have one for better or worse, we should watch for leadership to emerge as we go forward, when we can recognize it for what it is. A good leader will lead even without being predesignated to do so."
Sven shrugged. ”Aye. But we need order. We need to separate ourselves into two groups, one to remove the head of a bandit and another to deal with rampaging centaurs. And even if true leadership should arise in the field, it makes sense to me that we, at the very least, rally around those who seek to prove themselves as leaders.” Ignoring the gnome, who grated on his nerves, he continued ”As Sir Harter and Aldori seek to do so, we can at least give them both the opportunity to do so, with expeditions joining around them.” After a moment he added "Unless our patrons have an idea in mind. They've set a deadline for conquering these lands, after all."
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"If they've got enough prepped for us, I suppose. I'm taking my bow back when I leave this room regardless," She's still a bit sour about that.
"That's it! I was wondering why you looked so naked this entire time. The fidgeting should've clued me off," Meredith exclaims.
She looks around as the short newcomer comes in, exclaiming glee and fawning over Ikit. "Oh, oh no, I wouldn't... yeah, I don't think touching it is a good idea. You didn't miss much, just the overall outline for our mission over the next weeks. Targets, lays of the land, expedition outfitting, the normal. But you ARE just in time for the posturing and dividing of factions. You know, the usual," she adds with a smile.
Looking at the excited young woman - who appeared to follow Sarenrae, Desna, and Shelyn all - as she eagerly approached Ikit, he thought to himself, This one has impulse control issues. She may draw trouble down upon the group in her overenthusiasm. To her, he says, "Good day, Elaina Newberry. I am Stanislaw Medvyed. Forgive me for saying so, but you appear to be quite eager and energetic. Such eagerness is good, but I would suggest tempering it somewhat. The lands to the south are dangerous, and untempered eagerness could land you in a thylacine's den. I've heard rumor of fey creatures, as well, who could prove dangerous to one's health if not approached with care. Fey can be quite fickle in their reactions."
He half-smiled at Daxiana's comment about her bow. "I concur, cousin. I, too, will be reclaiming my bow when I leave this room." A thought occurs to him. "Speaking of, it has occurred to me that I haven't seen many others who favor the bow as you and I do. While I would enjoy engaging in this venture with you, in order to ensure that both groups have sufficient archery coverage, you and I should probably go in different groups."
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"If they've got enough prepped for us, I suppose. I'm taking my bow back when I leave this room regardless," She's still a bit sour about that."That's it! I was wondering why you looked so naked this entire time. The fidgeting should've clued me off," Meredith exclaims.
She looks around as the short newcomer comes in, exclaiming glee and fawning over Ikit. "Oh, oh no, I wouldn't... yeah, I don't think touching it is a good idea. You didn't miss much, just the overall outline for our mission over the next weeks. Targets, lays of the land, expedition outfitting, the normal. But you ARE just in time for the posturing and dividing of factions. You know, the usual," she adds with a smile.
”Fair enough.” Sven said in response to Daxiana. ”And while I’m sure that your bow will serve the sword-lord well, I am comfortable following Sir Harter. A stable kingdom is built on law and traditions, and it requires a lord who is just. I’ll put my hammer behind his claim.”
Daxiana chuckles at that. She hadn't quite meant to commit, merely comment on current volunteers for leadership, but she can see his point.
Then Piret, the lady in the lovely gown speaks up in counter point, and it's a good one to be fair. Maeric agrees, and Sven makes his own statement about how they have to start with SOME system or it will be disorganized and then no one with ideas which group is going where...Well, blast me if everyone doesn't have a good point or two.
"That's it! I was wondering why you looked so naked this entire time. The fidgeting should've clued me off," Meredith exclaims.
THAT gets a hard laugh from Daxiana "You've got me, being away from my bow gives me the shakes something awful."
He half-smiled at Daxiana's comment about her bow. "I concur, cousin. I, too, will be reclaiming my bow when I leave this room." A thought occurs to him. "Speaking of, it has occurred to me that I haven't seen many others who favor the bow as you and I do. While I would enjoy engaging in this venture with you, in order to ensure that both groups have sufficient archery coverage, you and I should probably go in different groups."
"See, THAT makes sense and I don't think anyone would argue with it. I'll miss you, but neither of us came here for a family reunion, and you're right, each group with their own archer of Medvyed gives each group a better chance of success. We're just that bloody talented, deadly, goodlooking, and above all..." She does a faux demure look "Humble. There, one thing settled. Good idea, Cousin. If we get a chance let's write to each other eh?"
She also adds her greetings to Elaina Newberry, "Hello, Elaina, I'm Daxiana, and apparently you will have your choice of helping folks against bandits or centaurs respectively. Rewards include adventure, wealth, support, and a chance to shape new territory and even help a new baron or baroness out. We're all sussing out the after announcements expectations. I'm sure which ever group you'll end up on they'll be happy for some holy help."
"No problem, nice to be making your acquaintance." She says, responding to Atrehon.
Cassia waits for the colorful cleric to introduce herself before beckoning Atrehon and Elenaril to follow her. "Come on now, time to get buddy-buddy with the other kids." She jokes.
Whether or not they follow, she joins the others and lists her qualifications. "Hello all, name's Cassia. I didn't particularly catch everything the surveyor said," She gestures at Piret.
"but I caught on when she mentioned that this future barony needs people will skills, and if either group needs someone skilled, then I can help. I know a few things about these lands and the people in them, plus I'm not too in a fight, once we're out of here and I have my blades back.
Cassia offers a winning smile as she makes her sales pitch.
The elven wizard makes a small face at having his question about the centaurs be ignored by those in charge, but quickly shrugs it off. Athrehon then steps back to lean on the wall so he can watch the maneuverings of the assembled adventurers to take the reins of leadership.
Almost as an afterthought, he glances back at the two women (Cassia and Elenaril) and offers, "Oh. I humbly beg your pardon...it seems we were interupted by the announcements. Athrehon. My name is Athrehon, of the House of Silverthorn."
"Well met Athrehon," she replies warmly, turning to watch the commotion of the quite colorful cleric's entry, and her odd interaction with the ratfolk.
It was interesting watching people try to claim leadership, when the truth was that survival in the wilds would put them all to the test and prove who was suited to lead.
Gaxi slinks back to Daxiana and chirps in enthusiasm, in regards to the bow, "Gaxi better than archer! Gaxi shoot fire! Fire better than arrow! Except for fire arrow."
He then adds, "Gaxi has no clue what happening, but Gaxi burn centaur and Stag Lord. Whatever those are."
Athrehon gives Elenaril a nod and then moves (with her?) to follow Cassia into the throng. Once amongst them he says,"For myself, I'll make no claim for leadership, save to advise and assist. My magicks and scholarship will absolutely speak for themselves in short order, and I'll gladly step up for whichever band to which I'm assigned." He pauses, then grins and adds, "The other group will just have to try and muddle through without me."
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After eating and conversing, people start to drift off to their rooms. Eventually, everyone beds down for the night.
Each of you are awakened to the sound of fighting. Screams and yells echo through out the mansion. Some of you are awakened by masked figures breaking into your rooms. The initial fighting is short and fierce, but each of you manage to survive the initial onslaught, whether by luck, skill of arms, or the timely intervention of another. Many others are not as successful. Bodies are everywhere, including of the attackers. Survivors start gathering, but trust is at a minimum.
Harter and Meredith run into a group of the unkown attackers just as they are about to skewer Tartuccio. Their assault saves the purple gnome.
"You're just in time! A bit longer and I'd have been... ugh, I don't even want to think about it! Can you imagine? What a terrible loss that would have been! But it's all right now, I'm safe, sound, and unscathed -- ready to lead you to victory!"
He continues,
"Lady Jamandi is holding the line in the banquet hall. We need to make our way to her! And along the way, we'll try to save some of these dummies that were supposed to accompany us into the Stolen Lands."
While everyone is searching, Tartuccio leans close to you and whispers,
"Speaking of dummies..." He eyes the others, "Take this ring -- quiet now, so those fools don't hear us! They might try to steal it for themselves... it's magical, it'll protect you. You'll need it while you work to defend me!"
He hands you a gold ring with a seal on it.
Gaxi slinks back to Daxiana and chirps in enthusiasm, in regards to the bow, "Gaxi better than archer! Gaxi shoot fire! Fire better than arrow! Except for fire arrow."
He then adds, "Gaxi has no clue what happening, but Gaxi burn centaur and Stag Lord. Whatever those are."
Dax grins "Flaming arrows you say? You know, we might just make a good team."
"I've no idea what you're saying but i like the enthusiasm!" She grins anyway.
(EDIT) As things close up, she wishes folks well, retrieves her bow with an 'hurumph' that is probably the most aristocratic thing about her, and goes to the quarters she's been provided!
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Varnhold Group: Your group comes around a bend in the corridor and see the Amiri fighting several of the asassins. Any doubt about her ability to weild the massive sword is dispelled as you see her raging.You rush to help and the assassins are quickly dispatched.
Amiri gives a quick once over of your group, but then rushes off yelling oaths to Gorum, obviously only interested in killing the attackers. Ahead and to the Left is a large door that leads to the main entry hall that in tiurn leads to the large feast hall wher you listened to the announcement from Jamandi earlier.
As you approach the door, you see several od the assasins confronting a group of guards, but before you can move in, you see the leader of the assassins call out and a Frost Giant enters the room, casts cone of cold, and slays the defenders. The group then moves toward the feast hall and, as they pass, the Giant smashes the Jeystone of the archway, collapsing the only way to follow them.
Dueling sword drawn, Pyros looks around for another way to reach the feast hall. "Does anyone see a path?" he asks the others.