General Morvius's page

Morvius' attitude to Jakob is an Unfriendly one since the conversation the previous night and with a hefty DC modification I am treating as "Give Dangerous Aid", the check fails (DC32).

General Morvius thought more on Jakob's plan but eventually seemed to return to his initial stance.

Releasing a prisoner is not an option. There is not enough evidence that it will gain us anything. A sympathetic ear might be a worthwhile approach though, Jakob. Your free to try your hand at getting some information out of the prisoners. I would reconsider your plan with something more to go on.

You all have the morning; if nothing changes, you enter the ruin. Ultimately, this "Chausiku" might have merely sacrificed his men as a distraction. Thus far, it appears to be working and we do not know if time is a relevant factor here.

More to distance himself from the heated discussion than because of a natural pause in the conversation, Morvius returned to his many tasks and duties.

General Morvius nodded to both Ansha and Qhude as their seperate mentions of the prisoners came up.

You all have full authority to question the prisoners as you see fit. No lethal force though. They will be put to trial in Eleder.

The General answered Jakob's concerns about the structure.

I sympathise, but I do not empathise. The Grand Custodian employed various divination and his finest agents to gather information on this structure; he was assured enough of the power in this place to fund this expedition and assign personnel to it. You do not know the Grand Custodian like I do. He does not make any decision lightly, much less one of such importance. He believes that what has been hinted at within this structure has enough power to save Sargava. Perhaps it could be argued, that it is a risky gamble on his part. But it is an informed gamble. This expedition may save Sargava and I remain utterly committed to it.

Our attackers were certainly zealots. I am reluctant to release one in the hope he can lead us to this "Chausiku"; I suspect our foe is smarter than to fall for that; especially if he is among us. He could use it to his advantage in some manner. I am uncomfortable letting any of these poison-wielding, backstabbing men loose again.

Despite the tension between the General and the Bas'o, he seemed to appreciate the man's similar feelings towards the attackers.

Jakob could press the issue with a diplomacy check to make a request, but it would be a difficult (though not impossible) sell.

For what its worth its likely going to be a non-issue. Morvius has no intention of killing them with tensions with his ancient ruin explorers so high. He is likely to send them back to Eleder to face trial, in accordance with Sargavan law.

Qhude and N'bellocq led a pincer attack on the enemy camp; only to find it completely abandoned. While several tents, mosquito nets and a large amount of rations and equipment was found, it seemed that every soul had been involved on the attack on the base camp. N'bellocq found no tertiary tracks suggesting flight or a second force.

Eventually, each of our heroes settled down to sleep and the rest of the night was relatively calm.

12th of Arodus

The next morning, General Morvius was quick to address all of the said heroes at breakfast. He spoke a little less formally than usual, entering into the talk quite abruptly.

I've assumed Ansha briefed him somewhat.

I have been thinking about the threat that this "Chausiku" poses. While the apes were certainly a deadly force, they paled in comparison to the full attack on our walls. In truth, if we have slain all of his allies I would not expect another attack. Nevertheless, I have tripled the watch pattern for at least the next week, just in case. N'bellocq and I spoke on the way back from their camp and we are in agreement that a smaller raiding force of these saboteurs has been raiding our supply wagons. He has kindly volunteered to ride out as my scout and ascertain the effectiveness of the mercenaries I sent out in dissuading them. If we are lucky, the Ivory Cross men are worth their expense and have eliminated this secondary force and I can order them back.

N'bellocq nodded in confirmation of Morvius' words.

You all proved your worth again last night and I am grateful. I would ask that the rest of you enter the structure once again. Our work here is more important than ever, especially if these wicked men were so intent on stopping us. To slay soldiers is one thing, but to set feral animals upon the innocent... the General trailed off in anger.

I'll have the surviving attackers vigorously questioned.

It is just as Qhude has finished tying his new armband and walked back to his bedroll that Morvius emerged to give his speech. The bas'o frowned, but slung his travelling backpack across one shoulder and picked up his guisarme... though there was not time to don his rope. With purposeful yet slow gait he moved himself to stand before the group of heavily armed and armored men.

The bas'o was not tall, but in his wounded and battle-hardened state he yet cut a picture of untamed aggression and power. His left arm held his rope-wrapped polearm across his shoulders and the freshly wrapped leather thong was in clear view. His leather armor and colonial shorts were covered with dirt and blood, and wounds upon his body yet weeped further. But his eyes were hard and his nostrils flared with intent as breath was drawn inward and expelled through them.

Without threatening motion, but with a hint of derision in his voice Qhude spoke "Wearing your steel you will crash through the jungle like a herd of izingulube. Your enemy will hear you and melt into the trees as an ilihlosi.
The metal skin weighs your legs, making you slow like an indlovu. The ones you seek are not burdened, and will bound from your swords like insephe." his chin proud and a challenge being made to the induna's wisdom within the field of conflict.

Gesturing to N'bellocq with his right hand "My umfowabo and I share none of your weakness. Let us be the uphondo to your isiphuba..." demonstrating a circling motion with his arm to show that the two of them would circle around behind the mwangi's position as they assault. "...or the ones you wish dead will fade into the jungle as ghosts to haunt you further."

izingulube - boars; ilihlosi - panther; indlovu - elephant; insephe - gazelle
umfowabo - brother; uphondo - horn; isiphuba - chest

Qhude's intent is to use his position as a respected / feared warrior in the camp to drive the general to accede to the request. In his mind it is a rightful...

The General did not seem surprised by the challenge. Perhaps he even expected it. He addressed Qhude with a strained voice, but it was the voice that he had spoken with since the attack had ended. The man was highly strung and had taken the deaths of his men and women hard.

I see no flaw in your plan, Qhude. If you and N'bellocq would act as our scouts and vanguard then by all means, do so. N'bellocq knows the route. We will follow your movements, from a distance.

With Ansha and Tebati occupied in the large tents, those still outside could not fail to notice that Albert's squad and ten other soldiers had taken the time to garb themselves in full scale mail armour. They had lined up in the centre of the camp, where General Morvius addressed them. N'bellocq stood beside him, the two men having spoken in private a few minutes earlier.

Men and women of Sargava. You did yourselves proud today in the defence of this fortification. Our attackers used deception. They used poison. They struck at night, from the shadows. Nonetheless, we held our ground. They were slain to a man or captured. N'bellocq here believes that this was the entirety of their force. We will verify this for ourselves, right now. We will not risk our enemy gathering strength to attack us again, more prepared for our tactics and methods. We will not permit a slow death by attrition. If there are any survivors, we will end them.

His words evoked slow nods and eyes full of determination from his men, rather than cheers. Blood had been spilled and friends had been lost. With the potential of more bloody business to come, the soldiers movements spoke of cold purpose and a certain numbness.

Ansha curses softly when it becomes apparent that the shaman escaped. Charging out of the tent, she sees that the battle is dying down. Replacing her scroll in a scroll case, she watches from a distance until the last attackers are dealt with.

Seeing a handful of survivors being moved to captivity, she approaches General Morvius. "I assume you want answers from them," she states more than asks.

General Morvius looked quite furious at the events of the night. He whirled on Ansha, his face twisted into a near-snarl.

I'll not sully my hands with these filth! he hissed, gesturing to the captives with one hand.

His hand holding the hilt of his sword tightly with the other, in a clenched fist. The General nodded his head towards where the prisoners were being kept.

Your band may employ whatever methods you see fit to question them. I will not have Jakob or Qhude challenge my authority again, not tonight. There has been enough blood shed for Sargava today. Tell me your findings when you have them. I don't need the details.

With a glance at the Umkhaya, General Morvius strode confidently to the centre of his battle line, hands clasped behind his back; taking on the persona of a strategist general rather than the warrior he had been before. His subsequent offer of fair quarter seemed to fall on deaf ears, as not a single one of the attackers seemed inclined to cease their desperate fight.

Surrender now and you will be treated fairly. Do not force us to slay every last one of you!

Ansha is up.

General Morvius surged out of the tent, preferring to command his troops than hope to find the vanished summoner. He made a beeline for his men.

General Morvius followed Qhude and slashed his greatsword across the ape's chest as it reeled from Qhude's fist a second before- sending it away from the material plane as its form unravelled from the blow.

Attack: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (10) + 12 = 22
Damage: 2d6 + 9 ⇒ (5, 5) + 9 = 19

Where is the summoner? Morvius demanded, his eyes darting around the tent and his sword still raised. Seeing no visible threat, he addressed Qhude.

We need you armed, if not armoured, Qhude he said, a little softer than his previous demanding tone. It doesn't look like Kieran is using his sword right now.

Moving towards the kitchen tent, General Morvius cut down another of the wounded apes with a professional, well-practiced swing of his greatsword. Only Tebati's gorilla and Qhude's still stood by the tent and both were badly wounded.

Morvius Attack: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (17) + 12 = 29
Damage: 2d6 + 9 ⇒ (5, 3) + 9 = 17

Ah yes. In that case, its a hit.

Damage: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5

Seeing now that holding the walls was futile, Morvius barked new orders.

Form a fighting line just ahead of the barracks! Soften them up with volleys; we out-range them!

The soldier stabbed with the syringe spear on the west side of the wall was the first to fall to the attackers- he simply collapsed into unconsciousness as a result of the toxin administered to him. The two soldiers nearby on the west wall sought to protect him from being finished off- firing two desperate arrows at the lightly armoured warrior looming over the fallen. The attacker called out in a mocking fashion as one arrow missed and he swiftly ducked under another.

Fortitude (Fail): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8

Longbow Attack (Miss): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 3 = 13
Longbow Attack (Miss): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8

The two soldiers caught in the central part of the wall both began to slowly descend down the ramp, maintaining a defensive stance and retreating. The Ape got too close to the soldier's longsword and he managed to slash it across one of its burly legs.

Defensive Fighting (Hit on Ape): 1d20 + 4 - 4 ⇒ (19) + 4 - 4 = 19
Damage: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9

Defensive Fighting (Miss): 1d20 + 4 - 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 - 4 = 11

On the east wall, one of the soldiers saw he was clearly outnumbered and he disengaged, clambering up the watchtower and standing over the ladder leading up to it. The other two men covered his retreat, with one of their arrows taking one of the already wounded attackers in the chest and dropping him.

Longbow Attack (Hit): 1d20 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 3 + 1 = 19
Damage: 1d8 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 2 + 1 = 4

Longbow Attack (Miss): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4

Heeding Morvius' commands, the soldiers approaching the wall pulled back towards the barracks, firing their composite longbows in smooth fashion. A volley of twelve arrows rained against the very defence the soldiers had trained to use to protect the camp. The effect was telling- the ape was dispatched and a few wounds were dealt to the lightly armoured, attacking force. Garbed in hastily donned chain shirt, the soldiers were quite swiftly forming into the line General Morvius asked for.

Volley VS Attacker: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11
Volley VS Attacker: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5
Volley VS Attacker: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4
Volley VS Attacker: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (13) + 3 = 16
Damage: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7
Volley VS Attacker: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (7) + 3 = 10
Volley VS Attacker: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18
Damage: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4
Volley VS Attacker: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 3 = 13
Volley VS Attacker: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17
Damage: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4
Volley VS Attacker: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6
Volley VS Ape: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6
Volley VS Ape: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17
Damage: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
Volley VS Ape: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17
Damage: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9

Tebati's channel helped to stem the bleeding and seal the wounds of several camp followers, who may have died in the carnage otherwise; as well as healing herself and Qhude.

N'bellocq's two arrows wounded the gorilla Tebati left behind but it did not fall- at least not until General Morvius marched up resolutely, feinted high and rammed his greatsword into the ape's stomach. The blow was enough to send it from the material plane.

Morvius Attack: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (6) + 12 = 18
Damage: 2d6 + 9 ⇒ (6, 4) + 9 = 19

Just Kieran left to act.

General Morvius finished off the ape assaulting him with a more precise cut of his greatsword and it too disappeared. He looked up at the south wall and barked orders, both to the camp generally and then to Tebati.

Attack: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24
Damage: 2d6 + 9 ⇒ (6, 5) + 9 = 20

Men, secure the walls, now. You'd best not be dallying about getting your scale on! Tebati, take your group and stop these damn apes being summoned!

Perhaps not trusting that the group would heed his words, Morvius himself limped towards the kitchen tent; and Tebati.

Ansha and Kieran left to act. Kieran if you land a hit your likely to finish your ape off if you want to declare movement afterwards.

The young noble does not move as Ansha, Qhuse and the golem leave.

With a half smirk Jakob addresses Morvius.

"I think you lost a friend there Morvius." Jakob says stressing the absence of the generals rank. "Qhude, dislikes, taking orders. I expect the same goes for Ansha, she seems more used to being the authority that submitting to it. I cannot speak for the rest of us here but for myself I think I agree with our chandler and our pugilist."

Jakob's voice grows a bit stronger now, gains an edge.

"Perhaps you are overused to dealing with soldiers and rusty at working with people. Anyone can fall into bad habits, but you need to fall out of this one quickly. We are not soldiers we are individuals and we will each choose to help you, or not as we will. We are not your tools to be used, we are not yours at all. We are not subject to your dicipline or to your orders. Any one of us could walk into the jungle at anytime we choose and fetch up hale and happy in Eleder, or Absolom, or anywhere else we choose. You have no hold on any of us that I know of."

"I am staying, for now, because it is interesting. And because I have convinced myself that success will annoy the people who cheered the runners death in the trials. I am likely wrong, we shall see."

Now with your leave, general, I need to choose how I might best prevent the upcoming meeting from becoming a bloodbath."

The General's scowl appeared at the start of Jakob's speech and only deepened as Jakob continued.

I have been your most stalwart ally, young Jakob. For the most part, I avoid giving your band orders. You lack military discipline and your group suffers from an excess of pride. But when I see you fail to create direction yourselves, I will not hesitate to create it. I am a patriot. I will do what I must to see the land of my ancestors thrive.

A heavy finger was pointed sternly at the young Sargavan.

I have outlined the precariousness of our nation, but it seems to mean nothing to you. The fickleness you speak of with such pride suggests that you either do not understand the importance of what we do here, or you do not care. What of the people you grew up with in Eleder? What of your family, your new charges in the land so generously bestowed to you? You truly have so little investment you would threaten to walk away just because you don't like orders? You have forgotten your place. You knew what you were getting yourself into when you chose to compete in the Trials of Grallus.

The General fixed Jakob with a dead eye stare; perhaps the first time the man had clearly shown true anger.

We invested in you. We have given you a chance to become something great. You have questioned your fortune from the start and looked for conspiracy in every shadow. Let me say this to you, Jakob Mulle. If you truly think that the nation of Sargava has no hold on you, no leverage- then you have clearly been looking in all of the wrong places. Now... get out; and think hard on what you are willing to have on your conscience.

Qhude's eyes narrow and his jaw tenses, placing his hands upon the table he splays his fingers so as to prevent him from drawing them into fists. Breath is drawn in and out through his nose, the audible sound of the air best representing the anger that clearly seethes below the Bas'o's skin. His gaze does not move away from Morvius, and neither does he speak.

Despite the appearances, the umkhaya at least recognize that while the rage of the bas'o is ascendant... Qhude seems to have it under control for the moment.

General Morvius was hardly unaware of Qhude's gaze upon him. He did not shrink away from it, but nor was he interested in a glaring contest with the Bas'o.

I'll leave it in your capable hands to follow through he stated firmly, the finality of the sentence making it clear that the weekly meeting was at an end.

General Morvius had heard enough. The man initially seemed content to let the group decide its own course with regards to the other camp, but the raised voices prompted him to take command.

Silence he commanded. He paced back and forth as he laid out his words, gesturing with one hand while the other remained close to his waist.

In truth, both plans have merit. Both risk disrupting each other, however.

The Induna gave Qhude an apologetic glance before continuing. His tone was an authoritative one once again.

As a General, I must use the tools available to us. Especially in these times of strife. Ansha's command of charm magic is a valuable tool and chances far less permanent damage than capture and interrogation. Sending Tebati as an envoy to come in peace to these Zenj also has its merits, and the possibility that such an action will plant a seed of co-operation.

You will approach and stakeout their camp, from a distance. As N'bellocq tells it, it has one very defensible entrance and exit; a large amount of rocks one must scramble over, wedged into the entrance to the valley. You will wait for one or more of their number to exit the camp; and Ansha's party will seek an opportunity to isolate an individual and attempt to charm him a fair distance away from the camp. N'bellocq, Kieran; your skills in stealth and concealment are likely to be best used in this instance.

Tebati, accompanied by Qhude and Jakob; will approach and hail the camp once Ansha and the others are a reasonable distance away.

The additional merits to this plan are thus; you may be able to discern who amongst our own camp is reporting to theirs. In addition, if they plan any hostile actions while you are in position, you'll be well placed as scouts in order to gain a tactical advantage.

The General listened to any objections and ideas, but his mind as to the basic essence of the plan was made up.

Happy to insert further dialogue here if you want to discuss it further; but the General rarely changes his order once given.

You have your orders. Deploy at first light tomorrow. Albert and his squad are at your disposal, if you wish to have armed reinforcements nearby.

You don't know Alter Self nor do you have Disguise Self prepared. We're technically out of downtime so please make spellcasting clear- to cast Disguise Self you'd need to have used your bonded item.

As far as I can see, using Tebati as an envoy hardly prohibits you from utilising Ansha's charms at a later date. They are clearly already aware of our presence here. Frankly, I got the feeling during the last attack that it was merely a warning. No one was slain.

Of course, they may not be aware that we know where their camp is. Should they be spooked, you may not be able to charm one of them. They must surely have to hunt or forage for food from time to time. Perhaps you could isolate such a gatherer.

They were burnt. They were deemed potential carriers of ancient diseases.

General Morvius spoke again.

The tent is secure. If you feel Kamishah is worth investigating, you have my full authority to do so. However, he is hardly the only person to forage in the jungle, and i've seen him return with the vegetables he claims he needs. At the least, his alibi is good.

However, the foreman tells me that the excavation will be finished the day after tomorrow. They are clearing away the last of the largest stones blocking our progress and I am keen to send you in once more. Perhaps you could be our emissaries and speak to these Mwangi tomorrow, if N'bellocq leads you there? However, if they know we have discovered their camp they might move it... in which case we'd lose the tactical advantage of the hidden pass N'bellocq found.

Regardless, I am sending you back in as soon as the site is ready... That I have already decided.

Enough! the General said firmly of the discussions regarding the golem.

It is your creation and your responsibility, Ansha- including your justification of its purposes to your companions. Clothing will be provided for it.

Not amused by Ansha's jest, Tebati asks Morvius, "And if the members of the Order arrive and find an armed camp attempting to break in and steal what they have so long protected? I see no reason to make unnecessary enemies."

I am in agreement Tebati- I would sooner discover what they know of this place and reach a compromise. However, I disagree with our learned scholars Jakob and Arturus on this matter- specifically that this "Order of Arioch" may be the warriors accosting us. I do not believe this Order still exists in any functional capacity. My reasoning is three-fold. Firstly, if Arturus' comments about the story told by the illusions are correct, both the Azlant and Mwangi left this structure; and surely perished in Earthfall. Secondly, I'm a military man. Even if what you seek to protect is better left hidden, I would have ensured no one who happened to stumble upon it lived to tell the tale. I would have had a large force stationed in secret nearby- and I would have acted long before a camp was set around that which I sought to protect. We have been here for many weeks now. Thirdly, Sargava has no shortage of enemies; and Mwangi willing to strike at anything that would give the authorities power. The Freemen Brotherhood are only one such group.

To the General:

"So our next task is again into the ziggurat? Or would you prefer us to see what has stopped out supply train?"

I would hear N'bellocq give his full report to you and hear your words before I, we, make this decision the General stated firmly, looking to the archer.

General Morvius was professional enough to not make much of a fuss about the naked, oily golem of wax with the unblinking stare and eerie presence, but the older man Arturus was clearly quite embarrassed despite his curiosity and avoiding meeting Ansha's eyes. He replied to Ansha's report-

Disappointing news, but perhaps time and study will allow us to create a larger and more powerful golem. The fact that it is self-funding is quite a boon in itself and I suppose it was too much to hope that we would find the power the Grand Custodian spoke of in the very entrance chamber.

Morvius looked the golem up and down with an appraising eye, noticing Arturus' discomfort before nodding slowly and continuing.

Perhaps you'll find it of use exploring the third level of the structure. I doubt its sentience will be relevant if it is destroyed by some trap or defence. However, I must insist that you both clothe your golem and make it wear a hood within the camp; preferably keep it in your tent unless you have need of it. Its best we don't provoke anybody or provoke superstition. Even a harmless prank by one of the workers could lead to an unnecessary death.

He looked to his favoured martial instruments; Qhude and N'bellocq.

I trust that you will destroy this golem at the first sign of insubordinance.

I see you added its statblock to your profile already, thanks.

I have heard some reports as to the past week here. I have some information as to the progress of the excavation to share with you, and we have some important decisions to make. But first- your reports General Morvius prompted at the weekly meeting that evening.

Albert looked on in awe at the trophy Qhude had claimed from the ancient structure; and he was not the only one. Soldiers whistled and gossiped in awe at the clearly incredibly valuable treasure haul. What was going through your minds seemed rather obvious- perhaps there was more inside, missed by the initial explorers...

Reporting back to General Morvius and Arturus, you detail your exploits. Both the General and the sage Arturus in a private debriefing, in the largest of tents. Having seen Qhude drag the magnificent scepter back into camp, Arkus the quartermaster asked politely for permission to inspect and appraise it and did so in the background of the briefing. Cruthoniax was also clearly very interested but was not permitted to enter the debrief.

The pair listened intently to the recounting of the delve, but this did not stop them from interjecting at various points- Arturus was keen to learn as much as he could about the strange veins of magic flowing through the structure and the strange thrumming sound that could be heard inside it. Morvius wanted to know if the candle apparatus had the potential to be weaponized. Both were suitably intrigued by the strange objects and Outsiders the group had encountered and they were both disappointed to find that progress had been blocked. Morvius summed up his thoughts at the end of the briefing.

You have exceeded my expectations- even to enter and return is more than my trained soldiers were able to do. I am sorry to hear of their fate. It does seem strange that they did not strike down even one of these wax men you mention; and strange that they are fashioned as Azlant, judging from your description. Much about this place is strange, but it is clear that we are likely to find greater wonders and power inside; power that Sargava direly needs. I feel you have deserved some frankness from myself and the Grand Custodian...

Arkus stopped his appraisal to scowl at Morvius. The scowl was noted but ignored. Passion entered Morvius' voice as he continued, near imploring in his tone.

And this frankness is thus; Sargava's very existence may hinge on whatever we are able to find and utilise within this place. Despite the lower tribute the Custodian was able to negotiate with the Hurricane King, Sargava's financial ruin is upon us. We can take no more credit, The coffers are near-empty. Do not mistake this for a simple economic disaster however... he grimly warned, raising a hand as he paced back and forth in the tent, as though giving a lecture.

We are barely holding Kalabuto in the east against the Mzali; and pirates are flocking to our coasts to raid; sponsored by the Hurricane King because we are behind on our payments. The Bandu are becoming even more of a menace. Perhaps even worse; we've recently began to receive reports of a force of the Gorilla King's forces pushing west towards us. Without more wealth to maintain and expand our forces; or enough power as a substitute for it- Sargava will soon collapse in on itself. Colonial or tribesman, it won't matter once the vultures descend... Sargava will be picked clean and neither the cities nor the tribes have the unity or power necessary to thrive. A time of great strife will encompass this land. Utilinis would like to avoid this; as would I. We would make Sargava strong again; worthy of the independence our ancestors, both Mwangi and Chelish, worked so hard for.

The passion left Morvius' voice as he assumed the role of taskmaster again, hands clasped behind his straight-arched back as he addressed the group after a brief and quiet conversation with his quartermaster. During the conversation, the group were invited to sit, eat and drink while camp followers brought sundry in for them.

Arkus has appraised the scepter. He will be travelling to Eleder to make contact with some intermediaries, who as I understand it will travel to Absalom and sell it there; under his supervision. He will be able to acquire near-anything you desire within your price limit. We are, quite naturally, re-investing much of the profit on this item back into equipment for you, while some shall be used for critical replenishment of Sargava's coffers. Your share each comes to nine thousand and five hundred gold pieces or equivalent, so I have been told. Arkus will provide coinage if you do not spend all of your share. I hope that this scepter is a mere bauble compared to what you will find deeper; a collector's item though it surely is.

Now, to matters at hand. Obviously your delve must continue at its earliest opportunity. We'll be moving some of our operation into the upper level of the structure and we shall send work crews down from there. I have sent for a master architect to ensure that the process of removing the debris you have mentioned is as safe and efficient as possible; and perhaps the man will have other insights as to the structure and its purpose. Nevertheless, the process could take weeks... We'll soon discuss what you could do to keep yourselves busy here; theres plenty of work to be done. I'd certainly be keen to see if you could discover the source of these native attacks that have been harassing us- but I digress. My first question for you is thus-

Do you have any recommendations or inclinations as to what to do with these skeletons you mentioned? I am likely to destroy them or seal them in... they will make the workers uneasy. And who knows what might set them off, or how powerful they might be, if they are animated! I would pose the same question as to the frozen apes you mentioned...

General Morvius grimaced.

You would weaken your allies by going in alone? If you are cut off from them and slain, they would have a harder time inside without your strength, do you not think?

Morvius looked to the others of Qhude's umkhaya for support.

QHUDE, HALT! General Morvius shouted urgently as Qhude made preparations to enter alone. I've told you, people just seem to vanish when they get to the end of that corridor... We don't know if the rope will be enough to bring you back...

Ansha is unable to discern any magical aura from inside the corridor, but this is unsurprising if illusionary magic is involved...

We lost sight of them quite quickly once they crossed the threshold of the entrance. Perhaps its another illusion at work; but I didn't have any mages to check before. We always lost sight of the men, no matter how many we sent. A lone scout or a full squad. Its like they just vanished.

The General bit his lip in irritation.

I won't expressly forbid it but I do feel that we have greater priorities on our hands than the off-chance that one of the wild Elves might remember something about a heavily warded structure that has apparently slain some of my best men. If the defences have kept out my soldiers, I doubt they have fared much better; assuming they were even aware of it to begin with.

He threw up his hands, apparently tired of arguing the point.

I'll leave it in your hands, but keep me informed. I'm going to tighten up the defences in case of more guerilla attacks. Arkus is around in one of the larger tents if you want to requisition anything; a fast rider should be able to deliver small items within a few days from the capital once the word is given.

I try to play all NPC's as themselves without using DM nudges. Who says it was only two saving throws :D.

General Morvius looked exasperated at the talk of Elves while Arturus listened closely to Tebati.

The Ekujae are wild and primitive. We're not talking about ancient keepers of lore and magic here; merely dangerous and warlike tribes which we are better off not provoking. If they had any interest or knowledge of this place, i'm sure they would have made it known by now.

Morvius nodded at N'bellocq.

That idea has merit.

The man claimed the Elves following him seemed to not see him at all once he entered the area around the structure. General Morvius said flatly. It was clear that the man was not impressed with the in-fighting and his gaze was now stern.

By this point, Qhude had began his tour of the perimeter. The stake wall was sturdy enough to slow down any attackers and force them to climb over it in order to assault the camp proper, all the while facing ranged assault from the watchtowers that gave vantage over the walls. However, the clear weakness of the camp was the terrain around it. The jungle here was brutally thick and dense, allowing an attacking force cover enough to approach to within twenty feet of the base camp, where the camp's workers had felled through the foliage. It also denied the watchtowers a larger killing ground. On open plains or a hill, this camp could be quite the formidable defence but in the jungle, more land would have to be cleared before it was optimal.

The Mwangi General reminded Ansha of some of the details that had slipped her mind in recent weeks.

"A traveller stumbled upon it, a lucky twist of fate as he fled from the indigenous Elves in the area- his mind was somehow not fooled by no less than two powerful illusionary auras shielding the structure from sight; it appeared as a dangerous looking swamp to the casual eye. At great expense we have dispelled the illusion, but I truthfully don't know whats waiting for you. We have no way of knowing for sure how long it has been undiscovered. Whatever took the time to ensure this structure was this well shielded and defended evidently put defences in place to act as another layer of protection; and we've never had a man go inside and come back."

Morvius did not look happy with this suggestion and the General frowned.

If you think it best, you may do so. But I believe an initial foray into the structure would serve our interests better. Albert's squad is at your disposal; I would suggest they be assigned to camp defence if you worry for our fates while you explore. My soldiers can hold this ground against harassment. What they cannot do, is explore that structure, apparently.

Under Jeggare's guidance and the protection of both the hardened Umkhaya and Albert's squad, the caravan plodded south. In tow with a small wagon of his own was the over-enthusiastic Cruthoniax. Although his attempts to modify and improve the caravan, such as arguing to place battering rams on the wagons to "increase their versatility" exasperated Jeggare on a daily basis, the caravan master did note that the Gnome's mercantile contacts might prove useful when resupplying or selling any treasures found. Albert seemed keen to harden his soldiers further and trained and drilled them with little pause, encouraging Kieran, N'bellocq, Jakob and Qhude in particular to join them.

22nd Erastus, 4711

After a little under a week of travel, the caravan had ventured into the Laughing Jungle and a day later, the front scouts spotted the Sargavan base camp in the middle of the day. The jungle was incredibly humid and those in armour felt at the very least, uncomfortable. The first thing the group spotted is the pyramid General Morvius spoke of. It is difficult to believe that the massive structure could ever have been hidden, even by magic. Well over a hundred feet high and with its base sides measuring about a few hundred feet, the structure dominated the camp built around it, its peak level sat well above the tree line of the jungle. It was an ancient, imposing structure built of stone and apparently having weathered the ages immaculately. On the north side, steps led up to the top layer of the structure and a doorway was visible.

This Kind of Pyramid (Not Triangular and Not Pointed)

Around the pyramid itself, the Sargavan forces had set up a base camp. A circular wall of sharpened stakes served as the camp's defence with three watchtowers placed on the south, west and east sides. A wooden gatehouse had been erected on the north side and as far as you could ascertain, it was the only way in or out of the complex. The caravan announced itself and after some security checks, it began to pass through into the base camp itself. Inside, the complex seemed to consist primarily of three to four man sized tents, although four large pavilion tents had also been set up, scattered around the camp.

General Morvius stood waiting with the quartermaster Arkus beside him as the caravan rolled into the camp. It was clear that all was not well here, despite the General's welcoming smile. Some of the soldiers the group spotted were sporting bandages and signs of treated wounds and although the camp seemed well organised here and there were small, tell-tale signs that this place had seen fighting.

Welcome travellers. I trust you enjoyed Freehold? I am anxious to show you around...

Tebati turns her head around sharply. "You're not traveling with us, General?"

Change of plans in-game since he said he was traveling with the caravan this morning, or DM misspeak/mind-change?

DM mis-speak, I was sleep deprived and went away from my notes without meaning to :S.

No- theres a matter of some urgency I must attend to first and I do not wish to delay the caravan.

General Morvius clears his throat loudly for attention.

Now that you've been acquainted, I will see you at the base camp; I have some urgent matters to attend to for the Grand Custodian but I should still beat you there on horseback. Good luck all of you- see you in a couple of weeks I hope.

Morvius looks at Tebati with a steady gaze, his face revealing little.

Can I not do both? he asks, his reply resembling a statement more than a question.

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There is little fanfare as you set out of the palace, General Morvius leading the way out of the city. No armed guards escort you and you receive few curious glances as you set out the east gate. You leave the main road by a few dozen feet to the south and are led to four very large wagons, a team of four horses assigned to each one. White canvas is stretched over a wooden frame to give the wagons structure and they appear large enough to walk around inside. A small group of teamsters and porters are busy loading a small pile of crates into the rear caravan.

The six Sargavan soldiers salute General Morvius as you approach. Each is a little better equipped than a standard Sargavan soldier; each man is clad in scale mail with a wooden shield strapped to his back and a shortbow slung over his shoulder. A sheathed short sword can also be seen on each mans hip. Each of their physiques is roughly average but from the greater cost of their gear you expect these men are either better trained than the average soldier or veterans of at least a few skirmishes.

General Morvius introduces you to Jeggare, some kind of official in charge of the caravan. He is a sturdy looking Half-Elf of at least forty years, far more portly than the stereotypical lean member of his race. Hes also rather short but his hands are thick with calluses and he has an easy air of competence about him.

'Ello then. he grunts back in a greeting much less formal than Morvius' introduction. Right- theres room in the second wagon set aside for you to rest and stow your stuff, though your sharing space with some tools for the base camp so mind you don't poke yer eye out on anything sharp. Normally takes about a week to get to Freehold. First couple of days are likely to be quiet but from day three and onwards we'll all need to be a bit more wary of Bandu raiders and any particularly vicious beasts of this fine land. Terrains mostly plains and foothills, plenty of places we could potentially be ambushed so your more than welcome to help keep an eye out! Might be we see no trouble but with four large wagons like this, no doubt some will think we're carrying a great deal of wealth.

Yes. I will await your return.

Just waiting to see if Jakob or anyone has any further questions.

Sorry to interrupt ladies, your free to retcon :).

22nd of Sarenith, 4711

With your two weeks of training and getting to know each other better up, you are all met at breakfast by General Morvius, who has been somewhat absent in the past two weeks. He looks particularly tired, bags under his eyes indicating the lack of a good rest. He nods respectfully to all of you and also seems to send a concerned glance towards Qhude.

Get packing. he says bluntly. We're heading off today- no doubt some of you may be curious to our proposed route to the base camp we have set up at the ruin. You travel east, overland to Freehold to pick up additional supplies for our wagons, and then south directly into the jungle. The route does risk some attack by raiders but its unlikely to be anything we can't handle. The caravan will have six Sargavan soldiers as well as yourselves for protection, myself, and a couple of dozen experts and porters necessary either for the trip or at the base camp. There are five wagons in all of supplies and foodstuffs for the journey.