With more of his men up and fighting, Kesten Garess breathed a little easier, although his ribs still ached unless he took shallow breaths. Noleski was back up and fighting and the grizzled Kundal had been among the few that hadn't almost routed, the barbarian covered in the blood of both sides but refusing a healing potion.
Kesten ordered the defence to continue and had the second batch of healing potions administered to the remainder of the wounded. Assuming the defence held, his fighting force would be back in relatively good fighting condition within half an hour.
Make them count men; thats the last of them. That monstrosity is recuperating away from the battle so things should be a little easier on us now.
No change to Strategy. The Kardas militia forfeit their attack this turn to heal 2HP using healing potions.
Hargulka redoubled his efforts, whirling and spinning to strike at his many attackers, relishing in their howls of pain as his morningstar crushed flesh and shattered bone. He risked a glance at the battle for the walls- it still looked like the defenders were holding their own, playing for time, not risking anything in a counter-attack. He was sure his warband would overwhelm them eventually- were it not for their armoured leader perhaps they would have broken already.
Why are they buying time? Could their "Guardians" already be on the way? Hargulka wondered, as another wolf leapt for his throat and he swatted it aside contemptuously.
Mistress... he sent the thought to her with force of will, clutching the lock of hair.
The stabbing sensation came back, staggering him for a moment; a sympton of her irritation as she read his thoughts.
Yes, they are on their way Hargulka; Kargadd sought to preserve his own life rather than die misleading them as you asked. I have far more important matters to attend to here than to watch over you- if you think yourself a mighty war leader then prove it to me. I want this upstart nation gone from my lands!
The mighty troll felt the connection with her wane, and then sever. He realised that in this endeavour, he could no longer count on her support.
Roaring in fury, he rushed the wolf pack once again, seeking to slay the human and the large worg he rode into battle.
Jhod dismounted several dozen feet away from the troll warlord, bowing deeply to Red Eyes while Sootscales stood impatiently to one side. Jhod addressed the magical beast in the tongue of the wolves-
You have my thanks- and the thanks of Kardas, old friend. Old Deadeye willing, we'll see each other again soon in happier times. Kesten will need me on the walls and I fear for Lady Vaysh's safety.
Jhod holstered his longbow back on his shoulder and turned to look at Sootscales.
I am ready he said simply, and the wily Kobold and his leutenant Mikmek began to lead him to a "secret entrance" to access the castle. Jhod was sceptical that such a thing even existed, but had long ago learned the wisdom of not questioning the kobold's methods in earnest.
Red Eyes himself focused the pack's assault on Hargulka, meeting his charge with one of his own, supported by dozens of his pack.
Come, king of the Twitches-When-Dead; I will tear out your throat.
Red-Eyes strategy changed to Aggressive.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
At first, the two seperate fronts seemed evenly matched- but slowly, the trolls began to gain footholds on the walls, an occasional giant managing to get up onto the wall and wound several before being forced down once more. The two hours of fighting had made the defenders tired, and with their fatigue they made more mistakes. A fair proportion of Kesten's men were badly wounded, and several killed outright. There was little more they could do for the wounded than try and keep them stable and have an infirmary set up in one of the more spacious castle wings.
Despite his lingering wound, Kesten was constantly wherever the fighting was thickest, borrowing a fresh sword from a member of the militia who was too wounded to fight on. Although the trolls never gained a firm foothold along the walls, the damage they had wreaked among the defenders was telling. The line was thinning- and it had been much too thin to begin with.
In the streets of Swordhaven, Red Eyes and Hargulka were engaged in a ferocious battle, with the former's loyal wolves frequently taking blows to protect their liege. Despite Red Eye's fierceness and clear status as the alpha wolf of the pack; it was becoming clear to all that he was no match for the troll, even with his wolves supporting him. Hargulka killed at least two of the animals with every fast, powerful swing of his morningstar, and his tough skin and enchanted hide armour were more than enough protection against the teeth of his foes. The wolves tried to bring him down with their pack tactics but the troll lord was canny and tactical in his defence; and far too quick and strong to be tripped or torn to the ground even by Red Eyes himself. Hargulka was wounded during the clash, particularly by a ferocious pounce by Red Eyes himself that tore open his throat; but ultimately the warlord left too many wolves broken, dead or dying in a pile around him. As one, the few survivors of his onslaught finally broke and fled back towards the Narlmarches; Red Eyes himself struck a final, mighty two-handed blow from the morningstar that sent him flying across the street only to slam forcefully into a wooden house, shattering it with the force of his landing. The strange magical beast tried to rise and keep fighting, but collapsed in a pool of its own blood, his spine broken.
I'm sorry Vaysh...
Sorry that last one took a while, on account of Paizo going down JUST as i'd finished it...
Hargulka seethed in fury as he was forced off the wall yet again. The veteran warrior idly fingered one of the beads in his amulet, contemplating using it to soften up the defence.
Not yet, my pet... came her soft voice, and with it the stabbing, blinding pain that heralded one of her commands.
I have acquired information- their paltry force of militia has access to healing potions. Continue the assault and prove you are worthy of my affection...
The pain in his skull subsided and was replaced with a warm, soothing feeling. Hargulka relished, basked in it and the power it gave, before roaring at his troops to battle harder, increase the pressure on the defenders and to show no mercy. He leapt at the stone wall with renewed vigor, knowing that eventually- the defenders would fail to dislodge him in time. And when that happened- he would wreak havoc among the frail humans.
Kesten urged on his men, and noted the increased tempo and viciousness of the attacks as the troll leader urged them on. To compensate, Kesten encouraged his men to fight defensively, conserve their strength and worry more about forcing the troll's off the walls than killing them. They just needed to hold out long enough...
Strategy changed to Cautious.
My lady, they have seen you clearly enough now; please retreat into the keep. Akiros, seal the doors and make a barricade. If we fall here, you must hold on as long as you can; and try to get her to safety.
The former Paladin was stained in the blood of trolls, his heavy blade having done more than its fair share. He nodded solemnly, gripping Kesten's wrist in a traditional fareweel between warriors, and led Vaysh away. Kesten resumed his place on the walls and thought of his wife and child; before burying such thoughts into the void.
Incredibly, it seemed the tide was really turning. The militia, emboldened by their successes in holding off the trolls for half an hour, had overcome their fear; and the troll army paid a terrible price for the second phase of their assault on the walls. Over the next twenty minutes, thrown torches scalded their flesh and flaming arrows made the cuts from their blades and the heavy bruises from falling from the walls into gaping wounds; and both Kesten and Kundal had managed to deal a horrendous wound to two trolls that approached the top- Kesten severed an arm at the shoulder with his sword while Kundal decapitated a troll whose ugly head had appeared before him, having almost finished the climb. The troll army was badly bloodied, and even their legendary regeneration was struggling to keep up with the Kardas militia's frenzied counterattack. Noleski "Troll-Blooded" laughed in contempt at their foes, jeering at them from the top of the wall, and many of the men laughed with them, some simply smiling in relief that they had scored such a decisive counter-attack.
But then, to Kesten's horror, the monstrous two-headed brute suddenly changed tactics; and the defenders on the wall had almost forgotten about it in their exultation. The first victim was Noleski, massive claws tearing through him as he collapsed onto the wall, face turning pale and blood streaming from the hideous gashes in his chest. Hastily raised shields, futile attempts at driving the beast off and even flaming arrows seemed to be able to do nothing to stop the brute's onslaught as it tore through the ranks, its massive claws cleaving through stone and flesh alike. It had no need to climb the walls, the hunched beast being tall enough to simply attack by rising to its full, formidable height; and even in the hideous bloodshed that followed Kesten couldn't help but be reminded of a child playing with a dollhouse, as the destructive beast wreaked havoc across his lines. Panic ensued, and the men were close to breaking.
Just hold on, men! Kesten cried desperately as he saw the first telltale signs of a rout; a few here and there, overcome by the shock and fear of the attack, beginning to flee.
Morale check to not rout from being on 1HP.
1d20 + 5 ⇒ (10) + 5 = 15 DC15 (Success)
But it seemed words were not enough; he needed once more to lead by example. He gazed at the monstrous beast before him, skin tougher than steel and surely as strong as any giant.
Think if you want to stay alive. Fear will kill you if you don't control it. It is better to be the hammer than the nail.
Gulping in trepidation and trying to swallow his fear, Kesten took several steps back, ran as fast as he could at the ramparts, vaulted onto them as though the heavy armour he wore was a mere shirt and leapt through the air- plunging his sword into the right eye of one of the two massive heads, and smashing the sharpened edge of his shield into the other eye repeatedly for good measure, hanging on to the brute by the imbedded sword. It roared in fury and pain and after a few seconds, Kesten felt sharp claws tearing through his armour and into his flesh; the magnificent mail he wore prevented the claws from imbedding further, but he knew he was grievously wounded nonetheless. As the claw retracted to slash him again he pushed off the beast's face with his metal boots, launching himself back onto the wall; landing on his back as the wind was knocked out of him and his wounds opened up even more.
Grandfather's sword... Damn...
His foolhardy action had been just enough to inspire his men. Many of them rallied around him, awe in their eyes as the two-headed beast staggered back to recover half of its sight.
H... Healing potions. Get the acolytes up here. Those who aren't wounded hold the...
For Kesten Garess, everything went dark; his eyes drooped shut and all the strength left in him faded.
The screams of the townsfolk drowned out the guttural laughter and battle cries of the rapidly approaching troll army. Over a dozen trolls with multiple trollhounds were fast approaching the castle from the west; and not all of the civilians were going to get clear in time. Here and there, an unlucky citizen was trampled or torn apart by the rabid green giants and their cruel dogs; and though some put up a fight, their efforts were inevitably and invariably in vain. Others seemed determined to hide in their homes and hope the trolls passed them by, and in many cases they were right. Others however, were not so lucky. Troll's would tear the roofs off of houses and dismember the inhabitants, sometimes eating them. Kesten Garess answered Vaysh's unspoken question as tears ran down the Baroness' cheeks, her eyes pleading.
Vaysh... I'm sorry, but if we sally out we'll simply be overwhelmed- and even more good people of Kardas will die. I know its hard; but this is the only way. We're almost ready; once we launch our first volley, their attention will be on us I am sure.
Scanning the western half of the city from his vantage point on the walls, Kesten took comfort in that only a very small number of people had been caught by the trolls despite the haste in which they had to leave their homes; those dying now didn't deserve it, but in many cases they had delayed to bring material possessions with him. They were paying the toll for that decision now. Kressle and the men assigned to her had done a fine job in getting the majority of the civilians away from danger; and he could still see the fiery warrioress guarding the rear in case any of the trolls got hungry for easier prey.
In addition to the main host of trolls, there were two clear members of the upper leadership hierarchy of the enemy. One was clearly the troll lord that Kardas had heard whispers of- Hargulka.
The war leader marched ahead of his troops confidently, indomitably; sweeping any resistance aside with brutal efficiency, swinging a wooden morningstar with expertise and the strength of a dozen men. The massive weapon occasionally created a thunderous sound as a small shockwave of force seemed to reverberate from it from time to time. Hargulka was a little larger than the other trolls and with a darker green pallor to his skin that perhaps hinted of a more advanced age. The leader was dressed in tough looking hide armour and sporting some kind of large animal's skull as a crude bracelet upon his right wrist, and also sported an ornate necklace; further marking him out from the mostly unarmed and unarmoured members of his band.
In contrast to the disciplined deadliness of this leader, was the monstrous and powerful brute that he had somehow gained the allegiance of. Standing at a massive thirty five feet, the huge, two-headed troll was an abomination beyond any that Kesten Garess had ever seen; beyond what any soldier on the walls had ever seen. Such monstrosities were only hinted at by the Guardians and their fine tales of adventure, such as the legendary Owlbear. It too wore an amulet, but it was much plainer than Hargulka's. The beast bore no weapons or armour but judging from its claws and teeth, each longer and deadlier than the swords his men bore, and its thick, muscular frame- it needed none.
Kesten did his best to swallow his fear, and tried to rally his men's spirits.
Free men of Kardas- there is your enemy! Mark their ugly, pox-ridden faces well, and know that we must hold them here, for the sake of our families, for our oaths of loyalty to our Baron, and for the honour of this great, noble nation! Reinforcements are coming
I hope...
and they will be here in time to assist us! String your bows now and light your arrows- lets see them march through a volley of fire only to die at our walls! Focus your fire on the masses and their puppies!
Leading by example, Kesten raised his own hand-crafted longbow, lit an arrow from one of the many torches positioned along the walls and fired; his arrow was a prophet that heralded the firing of just over two hundred more, sailing through the air towards the slavering, monstrous beasts running towards Kardasholme.
The Battle of Kardasholme- Round One
Tactics Phase-
None of the armies know any tactics.
Ranged Phase-
1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5Offence Check VS Main Troll Force
No damage inflicted.
Kesten had been so hopeful as the arrows and bolts sailed through the air- his own lodging into one of the hound's front paws, sizzling its flesh. However, the majority of his recruits were completely green and in all honesty, some were so scared their hands shook as they took their shots. A few well-aimed or lucky shots hit the approaching trolls but the volley did little more than get the troll's attention.
Which, I suppose, was the aim of our volley. Kesten thought to himself grimly.
Jhod, Malthir- you had better get here as quickly as you can my friends...
The defenders of Kardasholme had time for a few more clumsy volleys as the troll's relentlessly approached, but they had little more impact than the first. Kesten threw down his bow and drew his blade- a gift from the patron of house Garess. The fine steel longsword would no doubt have its edge dulled by troll flesh by the end of the day. He then took up his torch in his left hand, and many others along the wall followed his example. Kesten could see Kundal standing fearlessly on top of the upper edge of the wall, designed to protect someone standing upon the wall proper from arrows. Kesten shook his head, not sure whether to be amazed or disgusted.
Ex-Lycanthrope or not, something is not quite right with that fellow... But hes probably worth a troll all by himself. No time to reprimand him anyway. Not like I can force army discipline on a militia organised in less than an hour.
Kesten passed the word along the wall to focus defensive efforts on the main troll force. He wasn't sure his militia would even be able to defeat the huge two-headed beast or Hargulka; but he was confident they could probably keep them from gaining a foothold on the wall. They had to try and break the majority of the trolls as fast as possible. Somehow.
With bestial roars and cries of fury, the trolls hit the walls, the incredibly powerful footsteps of the two-headed troll sounding like a battering ram upon a wooden gate. Gouging their own path up the stone wall with powerful blows from deadly claws, the trolls began to climb as the men rained down stones, arrows and bolts down on them and tried to force them back down by stabbing them with longspears, fighting with fire and steel any who reached the top.
1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9 Offence Check VS Troll/Trollhound Army
No damage inflicted.
There is something to be said for men fighting for their home, regardless of their military experience. Kesten thought to himself in awe as over the course of half an hour's intense fighting, none of the troll's had quite made it up the wall or made any progress with the front gate. Hargulka himself had managed to get all the way to the top before being shoved off the wall by Kundal and a dozen men supporting him, relentlessly bashing the giant until he plummeted. The two-headed brute was not having a great deal of luck trying to open the north gate by kicking it. To be completely honest, it seemed somewhat dim-witted.
However, it was clearly too early to celebrate. Hargulka and his troll's easily weathered the pitiful effects of the spears thrusted their way and the projectiles that occasionally hit hard enough to penetrate their tough skin; even the fall from the walls only gave them bruises that were healed long before their next tumble. The beasts didn't seem to tire; and although his men were still relatively fresh and unharmed, Kesten knew they wouldn't have the stamina to keep this up as long as the trolls did. The castle was their greatest asset, making the fight against the trolls a fairly even fight, so far. Kesten would have been sceptical of their chances if he wasn't sure reinforcements were coming.
Kesten Garess sighed heavily as he stood at the forefront of the meeting, instinctively taking charge in such a situation- the city of Swordhaven was to be attacked. Only a short time ago he had been sat enjoying a fine lunch with his wife and looking down fondly on his baby son, in a wooden crib that Vaysh had made for him. He remembered distinctly kissing Vera goodbye as he was rushed to an urgent meeting in the castle. He dearly hoped that he would see them both again- but he knew that this attack could easily claim his life; for how could he ask the men of Kardas to risk their lives if he was not willing to risk his?
For a moment, Kesten cursed the troll's timing- he was due to leave Kardas for his home in Brevoy in just over a week's time. He felt shame at this thought- Kardas had welcomed him with open arms and had been a fine home for him. The Brevic noble swiftly reprimanded himself for the moment of weakness, and he thought back to a quotation his grandfather was fond of-
Death is lighter than a feather, duty heavier than a mountain. The fact that the price must be paid is proof it is worth paying.
The quotation had never struck any emotional chord with him before but now; it chilled him to the bone.
He summed up the activity since Vaysh called the first meeting to the other Statkari for everyone's benefit.
Riders have already been dispatched to warn the nearby farms and smaller settlements to watch for the trolls and be ready to immediately evacuate if they are seen. We have some of Kalev's men acting as a scout screen- we should get a little warning before they are on us, though we have no real idea how close they are. We can probably assume they could be on us at any moment, as if there was a way to cut them off i'm sure the Guardians would have already done so. I charged Jhod and Karina with finding Red Eyes and his pack; I know there was some discontent over this decision but the potential for an allied flanking force is too good not to send someone; and Jhod will be able to speak to any wolf he sees with his magic.
Kesten produced a basic map of Swordhaven, laying it out on the large stone table showing the different districts and the castle- Kardasholme.
Our trained guards, militia and fighting men number a little more than sixty in all. Together with the volunteers, we have a fighting force of just over two hundred capable warriors. Flintfire Forge has generously provided our men enough crossbows and bows to provide us with good ranged capability, and Oleg was able to purchase healing potions from Bokken's reserve. I have made Kundal my leutenant and Noleski my runner; let it be known that commands from these two men come from my mouth to your ears, through them.
Kesten bit his tongue nervously, wincing inwardly although trying to show no weakness publicly to the other Statkari. It was important to maintain his composure and give off an aura of confidence. His plan wasn't going to be popular, but it was necessary. Kardasholme represented the only realistic chance of taking on the force Malthir had described.
It will not be enough to meet them on the field. We will need our attackers to see the castle and little else to distract them. We need to break them on the walls of this fine keep. A troll alone is a match for ten or more of our men. Several working together under an intelligent commander could easily best all two hundred of ours. We need to get as many essential staff into the castle as we can and get the rest moving east, within sight of Swordhaven.
Kesten paused, letting the plan sink in. Vaysh looked like she was about to argue, but fell silent with an arm partly raised in protest.
Which brings us to a seperate issue- the defence of the citizens. They would make an easy target for any other hostile element in the Stolen Lands. Therefore, Kressle, Akiros, you will guard them, along with ten men. Keep a scout posted to watch for our fate and
Vaysh's quiet voice, nevertheless firm and resolute despite its volume, cut across the audience chamber, interrupting Kesten.
I will not be leaving. If they seek to hurt Malthir, they will target me; and I will not bring harm on the heads of the civilians; not when I can take action to prevent it. I will remain here in Kardasholme- and I will make sure that I am seen on the walls by the initial attack.
Kesten immediately responded, indignation creeping into his voice-
My lady, the Baron would object to this course of action. He would not condone you using yourself as bait!
Vaysh smiled as she replied-
Your quite right Kesten, he would not. But he is not here right now- and I have faith that he and our other staunch protectors will arrive in time. I'm sure he and I will have some fierce words about this in happier times, but it is my decision to make. I am not some pretty wallflower; if you recall I have magic of my own, and I am quite capable. Kressle will go with the civilians- Akiros, my faithful Warden- will you be my protector, and the protector of my unborn child this day?
Akiros nodded sternly.
I will, Vaysh. No troll or giant shall get past me.
Kesten moved to protest further, but it seemed Vaysh's mind was already made up. He decided there was not enough time to push the point further.
Fine. he said through gritted teeth, a degree of finality to his tone. He mastered his feelings once more, reasserting his calm aura and continuing in a neutral tone.
Sootscales- you and your fellows may be invaluable in this fight. I want you to act as messengers; we need to be able to effectively liason with Red Eyes, Jhod and the Guardians. Use every trick you know to ensure messages between us pass through successfully.
The door to th council room burst open, a messenger frantically running into the room and collapsing to one eye.
My lady, my lords- the troll force has been spotted crossing the skunk river near the tuskwater; they'll be on us within minutes! Their leader seems to be a troll brute with two heads!
Kesten barked out his next command, infusing a sense of haste in all gathered in the room. He drew his sword as he spoke and began to move to the walls.
You all have your orders- GET MOVING. For Erastil! For Iomedae! For Kardas!
Kesten smiles and takes his seat as Oleg chuckles heartily at Casimir's statement, clearly empathising.
Thank you for the kind words. If she is amenable, i'll have her up to speed on our militia and guards before I leave; assuming Kalev is content in his position as Marshall. Please, let this news not detract from our meeting. Is there anything further to be said for Ricter's proposal?
Kesten clears his throat, before rising to his feet.
Ahem... I apologise for not sharing this news sooner my Baron, fellow Statkari. But I have been called back to Brevoy by my family. It has taken me some time to decide between my duties there and my new calling here but ultimately I am a man of House Garess. I will remain for the rest of this month in light of the Owlbear attack and then make my farewells.
Malthir sits in shock for a moment before responding, I am a little surprised Kesten. I thought your life was now here.
May I ask what pressing matters would take you away from title and land here in Kardas?
I will understand if you don't want to tell us.
If you must go then I wish you well, you have served Kardas well and will be missed. Can I count on you for one more duty though? In Restov? I need an important message delivered that I would only trust to very few.
If I am blunt my Baron, the coming war. Garess needs its men back in preparation for conflict. I'd be happy to deliver a message for you of course, and if I have any say in the affairs of House Garess we won't be involved in any conflict involving Kardas.
Malthir wrote:
It may be time to ask Kressle if she is ready to assume a role as not only your wife Casimir, but also as one of the Statkari.
Akiros indicates with a shake of his head that he is happy as the kingdom's Warden. The Statkari's eyes turn to look at Casimir.
Kesten clears his throat, before rising to his feet.
Ahem... I apologise for not sharing this news sooner my Baron, fellow Statkari. But I have been called back to Brevoy by my family. It has taken me some time to decide between my duties there and my new calling here but ultimately I am a man of House Garess. I will remain for the rest of this month in light of the Owlbear attack and then make my farewells.
Regarding Ricter, I was the one who made first contact with him. He was respectful, eager to help and apprehend Grigori and ruthlessly efficient in doing so. Provided you keep him on a leash, I think he could be very useful.
Sorry its been a couple of days, been struggling for time a little.
Returning to the castle, you are welcomed back by Kesten Garess, who gives you a brief tour of it and shows you the chambers that have been prepared for you in the northern wing of the castle. Officials, clergy and other sub-leaders of the city have begun to arrive in the castle for dinner and servants scurry around you everywhere you go. Kesten makes idle chatter about the city and castle as you are led to a grand dining hall, set before the throne. Kesten invites you to take a seat with the other Statkari so he can introduce you and does so. You meet-
Vaysh Triesente, Baroness of Kardas and a beautiful woman who appears humble despite the throne she commands. You have heard of her as you travelled into Kardas and she is also a Sorceress of note and quite a songbird. She appears to be taking careful measure of you as the dinner progresses, saying little but smiling, watching and listening carefully.
Jhod Kavken, a middle aged, sombre Taldan man who is apparently the high priest of Kardas and a cleric of Erastil. He is polite and straight talking, asking what your plans in Kardas are once introductions have been made.
'Chief' Sootscales, an overweight, dark-skinned kobold who has a deadly reputation despite his rotundness. He serves as the kingdom's 'Royal Assassin', a duty he tells you he has only had to exercise to its full intent on one occassion.
Oleg, a stressed, bald man in charge of the Treasury and the nation's economic well-being. He keeps out of most of the conversations at the table, only talking when he feels he has something of merit to say.
Akiros, Warden of the realm. He has the smooth movements and quick reflexes of a born warrior and seems to be sizing you up for a threat constantly even as you converse with each other. Sat at his side is Kundal, his assistant that you met in the library.
The three topics on the Statkari's lips throughout the dinner are-
1. You are asked to explain and elaborate your intentions in Kardas, as well as answer Sootscales continual questions about the Hellknight organisation, its structure and your place in it.
2. The devastation the giant Owlbear caused and the efforts to help and lead the people through the crisis.
3. Discussing the intentions of Baron Varn, the visitor that came to Kardas just before the Owlbear attack. The Statkari mostly seem to think he means no harm.
With a smirk that comes across as friendly rather than mocking, Kesten says as you walk away-
The first test of your character will be at dinner then, Hellknight. You are welcome to stay in the castle as our guest.
Word of your visit has apparently spread over Swordhaven by this point and curious glances are shot your way everywhere you go. Moving to see the library you see some of the damage dealt by the Owlbear en route; entire buildings destroyed by brute force, their walls caved in and the floors trampled. The library is a humble building, possessing knowledge in a variety of fields but not specialising in any. The librarian, an elderly man with a kind smile, asks you if you are looking for anything in particular.
Kardas is always looking for strong allies they can count on for reciprical aid. Yes, you have the right of it. The city was ravaged the day before yesterday by a monstrous Owlbear over sixteen feet tall, so forgive the people's lack of proper... hospitality. Baron Malthir and his Guardians rode out yesterday morning to track and kill the beast. I cannot speak for him, but I can invite you to dine and stay in the castle with us for lunch and introduce you to the other Statkari present in Swordhaven. I suspect Baron al Dagon will be interested in hearing you out and potentially giving you a chance to prove yourself to us in battle, once he returns.
You detect no chaos on the townspeople as you pass through, but you recall being taught that only clergy of deities of chaos and chaotic beings themselves such as demons radiate such auras. Other entities could radiate such auras, but only if he were powerful enough for it to truly have made a lasting mark on his soul 5HD or more.
The guards at the gate to the keep nod at your request and explain
The Baron and his Guardians are currently dealing with a threat to the realm... but wait here for a moment and i'll see if any of the other Statkari are available to meet you.
One of the guards whistles for a servant and asks him to fetch "General Kesten". Your fairly sure the laypeople of Swordhaven would have to go to greater lengths to gain an audience with one of the kingdom's Statkari (their term for Lord, as far as you can tell), but it seems the reputation of the Hellknights preceeds you even this far east. Or possibly the guards understand that a man garbed in full platemail armour likely has pressing matters to discuss.
You are not kept waiting long. A man of similar age to yourself walks out of the castle itself. He is tall, lean and fairly muscular with neatly trimmed black hair and green eyes. You instantly recognise him as a career soldier, both from his physique and his weaponry and armour. Hands clasped calmly behind his back, he approaches and formally addresses you.
Hellknight Ricter Vorsk, of the Order of the Chain. You are a long way from Corentyn. Allow me to welcome you to Castle Swordhaven, heart of the realm of Kardas. I am Kesten of House Garess.
Why not question the suspected woman to see if their seriousness can be ascertained? Its possible they are just a group of disgruntled outcasts who will leave the city or whose cult will flounder before it starts. Fenna, perhaps you could find out more with your skills as a Prophetess?
You contradict yourself Magister. If this was done in secret, there would be no volunteers, due to the secrecy. We would approach people on an individual basis I am sure.
As would I- let's hope the lad comes back as something the family can still relate to though... How does the Kingdom of Kardas feel about Goblin citizens?
Hearing of the death of the famous Howls-Of-The-North-Wind through Kesten Garess, the Swordlords of Brevoy send a stipend of 1,800 gold pieces as a reward.
Also, 400XP each. Any other business, or is it time to start the kingdom building phase?
Killing him would put an end to the problem, but it would certainly send a stark message to our citizens... Kesten remarks, sipping an imported wine from Brevoy.
I've been hearing more and more rumours of the Stag Lord returning as an undead monstrosity a few dozen miles to the east. The rumours are likely overblown- but there has definitely been some sightings of undead in that area- a few skeletons have been seen walking around with swords in hand. I believe that something is happening there, if not the Stag Lord's return...
During the morning you are to set out once more, Kesten Garess approaches you and says quietly...
The events of the past few days... It feels like something is actively trying to sabotage our nation. I urge you my lords and lady, do not be away for too long. Safe travels to you...
Kesten, are you going soft on me?Malthir lets the question hang for a moment then smiles,I was beginning to think you were starting to miss us when we are gone, but seriously we won't be too far...I felt the same thing. There will certainly be forces at work to try and make us fail Kesten, but we believe in you and the others can hold things together while we are gone. Have faith, Iomedae will guide us through this. Malthir puts his hand on his friends shoulder and tries to reassure him.
Kesten seems to take solace in your words, and then remembers something-
Ah yes... A local fisherman named Arven petitioned us. To the south-east, he claims an ill-tempered... turtle... has claimed his secret fishing hole. I dismissed this as a waste of your time, but perhaps theres something to it in these strange lands.
During the morning you are to set out once more, Kesten Garess approaches you and says quietly...
The events of the past few days... It feels like something is actively trying to sabotage our nation. I urge you my lords and lady, do not be away for too long. Safe travels to you...
Although Kardas does not yet have a standing army, Kesten remains wary and reminds the council frequently of the danger of complacency in a land as fickle as the Stolen Lands, especially in the River Kingdom. He has taken a young wife and to Jhod's delight has a child on the way.
Kesten agrees to get the messages sent personally, and as such he will be unavailable at Oleg's for a few weeks. He has left Eustach in charge with his second-in-command helping Eustach adjust, the move causing his men to grumble somewhat but they trust Kestens judgement and accept his decision.
Mostly able to post again now- Any other business at Oleg's or shall we move on to your next day's exploration?
Girlfriend is unpacking, so I can squeeze in an occasional post, but not much else.
Kesten moves to stand at the gate beside Yelena.
I was told to expect someone of this... nature... by the Swordlords last night, via secure channels of information- magical messages. I can vouch that she is who she says she is, Guardians; although I understand your concerns. I shall be Yelena's escort as she enters, if it would set minds at ease.
"Malthir makes a fair point," Fenna says at the holy warriors jest, "with the increased activity around Oleg's trading post, perhaps it is time that some slightly more permanent accommodations were constructed to house the guards... and any miscreants that may require imprisonment. I imagine those tents are becoming a little uncomfortable by now."
That is true my lady, but in the eyes of the Dragonscale Throne, Kesten Garess and his men don't even exist. The tents will suffice for now, and I have recently had some cages and manacles kindly bought for us by Oleg. Our arrangements will suffice for now.Kesten bows.
You receive the normal hearty welcome at Oleg's Trading Post and Svetlana rushes off to tell her assistant chef's to increase the amount of food being cooked for dinner.
Oleg smiles and stays to make small talk for a time.
You know, we should probably think about building some sort of secure holding place for these types of folks, we do seem to drag a lot of them back. he jokes with Kesten.
Am I starting to crack his shell yet? Malthir has been making a concerted effort to win the man over in the past couple month or so it has been.
Also did I have any contact with Karina while I was at the temple or did she pretty much avoid me?
Karina seemed to leave you alone. You have cracked Kesten's shell, he's simply a very stern and serious individual.
We've had no reports of anything like that Edric. Whoever they were they avoided Oleg's and the surrounding area or we'd know about it. We never mistreat our prisoners, Sir.
The group move through the now familiar forest and back to Oleg's Trading Post, arriving at about 6PM in the evening. As you ride towards the trading post and you are nearing it, Kesten meets you with his small group of soldiers, raising an eyebrow.
I hope you don't plan on a public trial for every brigand you bring back from your travels... he says sternly.
Malthir dismounts and shakes Kesten and the men hand's in his typical friendly manner, Well trouble seems to find us where ever we go. No I don't think that a trial is on our agenda this time. There seems to be some political maneuvering going on, I don't know if you know these men, they appear to be knights from the Vilsinsky family. They attacked us and attempted to take Sir Edric. I am sure he can tell you more about their plans and politics though. When you get a moment I wanted to tell you about one of the men in the group, who I think may be useful to us. He was a mercenary who knew little of their plans. I thought you might be able to use him since we have quite a few folks around Oleg's now and could use more security. We can talk more on it later after Casimir and Edric fill you in on their plans for the squires.
Very well. A mercenary hmm? I could use a veteran to help school these green recruits- someone a cut above the average soldier. Sounds good to me, introduce me later. We'll take these men for now and keep them locked up safe.
The group move through the now familiar forest and back to Oleg's Trading Post, arriving at about 6PM in the evening. As you ride towards the trading post and you are nearing it, Kesten meets you with his small group of soldiers, raising an eyebrow.
I hope you don't plan on a public trial for every brigand you bring back from your travels... he says sternly.
As you approach Olegs, you are met by Kesten Garess and one of his men. The heavily armoured warrior looks Kressle up and down and smirks.
I see you've taken another prisoner- would you like us to keep her caged for you?
Regardless of the response to his question, Kesten later addresses Sir Edric-
Edric, Guardians... On behalf of the Swordlords of Restov I bestow this second charter on you... Kesten clears his throat, a little uncomfortable at public speaking it would seem...
Be it so known that the bearer of this charter has been charged by the Swordlords of Restov, acting upon the greater good and authority invested within them by the office of the Regent of the Dragonscale Throne, to capture or slay the infamous bandit known as the Stag Lord. The reward for this faithful service to the Dragonscale Throne shalt be 6000 freshly-minted gold pieces, and a further charter to settle land and establish a colony in the Greenbelt. If the Stag Lord's body is dismembered or otherwise unavailable to be shown as proof, Kesten Garess has been granted the authority to confirm the banditry has been addressed. So witnessed on the 10th of Erastus, under watchful eye of the Lordship of Restov and authority granted by Lord Noleski Surtova, current Regent of the Dragonscale Throne.
Out of breath from the contents of the massive scroll he is reading from, Kesten hands the charter to the group. He then pulls out a small, sealed letter. Edric immediately recognises the seal of House Orlavsky upon the letter. Handing it over to the Knight, Kesten explains-
This letter arrived the trading post yesterday, with strict instructions for it only to be opened by Sir Edric Orlavsky...
Kesten gets a little friendlier with the group as the week passes, the sombre and gruff man seems to be assured that your intentions are good. He frequently spars with his men and invites the group to train with them if they wish. He is a notable warrior, and possesses an expertise with his notched battleaxe that rivals the group's own warrior talent.
Do the local hunters have anything to say about the specific questions relating to the wolves?
Sorry I had missed that part- didn't see it.
You ask the hunters about the wolves, but they haven't heard anything out of the ordinary.
Fenna wrote:
"I know that it is difficult to accept, but you cannot blame yourself for this Falgrim's betrayal, you where not the only one to place your trust in the man... I promise you this; we will try our utmost to bring him back to you, so that you may put this horrid matter fully behind you."
You have my thanks Fenna... You are a pleasant voice of logic in the mess of my thoughts. Kesten bows before you and then continues to look up at the stars, enjoying the silence.
On the Road:
Fenna offers Vaysh a faded smile as she cuts the apple into quarters to feed to the horse, "It is a natural gift for my people... I recall it was more difficult for me in my youth, but it is something I have always been able to listen for... your own kinship with animals is not very dissimilar, it is merely on a less consious level, have you not found yourself just knowing what an animal needs?"
Kesten: "Yes," Fenna replies quietly to the guard captain, without looking away from the stars, "it is nights like these which make me feel whole again, and remind me that even that which we have lost, is not necessarily lost forever."
After allowing a brief silence, she speaks again, "Do you find youself gazing upon the stars often, Master Garess?"
Aye... I am not comfortable around other people, and tend to prefer my own company and to simply gaze at the heavens in the evenings.
The two of you continue to stand in a comfortable silence, Fenna realising there is little need for forced cnversation with this man. Eventually Kesten speaks again...
Somewhere further south... another star-gazer is out there Fenna. A ne'er do well named Falgrim Sneeg. A thief, a cut-purse and a murderer. He too liked to gaze at the stars... Or so he told us.
Kesten's hands grab onto the edge of the stockade, and grip the stockade with such force that his knuckles are quickly turning white from exertion. The man is shaking with barely held in fury.
I... I trusted him to take my watch for the evening, a week ago. He stole all of our gold, and anything valuable he could carry. One of my men spotted him and challenged him. Falgrim cut his throat before he could raise the alarm. Gregor was a good man, and Falgrim killed him... brutally. All on my watch.
Kesten stares into your eyes manicly, and you can see that he too is haunted, in his own manner.
He must Die for his crimes, Fenna. My orders are to bring him in alive- to see him hang publicly, as an example.
Kesten pauses again, seemingly holding himself in check once more now that he has told his tale.
Capture him, Fenna- and I will see to it that the Guardian's are each given a master crafted weapon each on behalf of the soldiers of Restov. Kill him and the reward will be less, but I will do what I can.
Kesten hands you a portrait of the man with an annotated 'Falgrim Sneeg' scrawled underneath. He is fairly distinctive; you would recognise him if you saw him, and none of the bandits you have killed or met have matched his description.
Edit: Effectively this is the result of your diplomacy roll Fenna- this is your rumour ;)
Indeed they can. We were ambushed once on the way here, so forgive my caution. Welcome back to Oleg's, agents of Restov. I am known as Kesten Garess, and I am the leader of these soldiers. We have been comissioned to keep Oleg's Trading Post safe; although from what Oleg has told us about you, you took matters into your own hands.
Malthir extends his hand again to the young man and smiles at him.
Well met Kesten, and who are these other men that have braved the roads to get here? This is Fenna, Vaysh, Edric, and Casimir. We also found this young lady, Karina, in the woods looking for her sister.
Malthir waits for the others to introduce themselves and interact with the guards before asking his next questions, You say you were attacked on the road to the trading post? Let us go inside and you can tell us more about what occurred on the road.
sense motive 1d20-1
We have further duties to attend to here. We shall mingle with you at the evening meal later, and share tales.
Malthir goes into his pack to produce the charter Here is your proof, I understand your prudence, these lands can be dangerous.
Malthir will wait to see what the young man's reaction is and for them to get Oleg before saying anything else, the soldiers seem on edge.
The young man inspects the charter carefully, then stares at you all for a minute, looking at each of you in turn.
Sense Motive DC12:
He's quite clearly comitting your faces to memory and looking for any distinguishing features.
Indeed they can. We were ambushed once on the way here, so forgive my caution. Welcome back to Oleg's, agents of Restov. I am known as Kesten Garess, and I am the leader of these soldiers. We have been comissioned to keep Oleg's Trading Post safe; although from what Oleg has told us about you, you took matters into your own hands.
Kesten pauses, hesitating and weighing up his words, before continuing-
You have our thanks for that; but rest assured the trading post itself is safe for now. Direct your efforts towards the exploration and mapping of these lands, and strike at the bandits wherever you can, and we'll ensure your base of operations is safe. In particular, I am authorised to grant you a stipend of 50 platinum pieces if you acquire six of the silver amulets that the Stag Lord's leutenants have been reported to wear.
Kesten pauses again, and then says- A lot of people are counting on you. Don't let Brevoy down.