Oh yes, I do apologise I forgot about organising a meet up. Hmm...got a idea.
Elias of Erastil:
You are currently with a small group of guards on the search for the lords. The guards reported where they went and you have attempted to follow their tracks with the help of a local woodsman.
You wish to find them because there is some chaos going on back in the major city. A mysterious man has appeared and he's being rabble rousing the civilians for sometime. He's a large fat man, well dressed in finery and have quite the charisma as he is able to sway the audience. In fact, a few times you felt as if you were being convinced that these Lords were not performing their proper duties, but you managed to shake that off, knowing full well that the nation's holyman, Jhod Kavken, would not put his trust in these people, however he has had a somewhat dodgy past that lead to his original ex-communication, though you do not know why he was and things with the church at whole have become stable with this new temple.
You are now able to see the group in the distance and they appear to be talking with a group of knights on horse back.
Lord Maegar Varn returns after he helps Telias clean out his shack and looks down at the poor souls who were victims to such vicious creatures.
"I hope the next time we meet, it is under better circumstances." he gives a soft smile to you all as a light hearted comment to try and ease the mood. "Taming the land to the east was not a easy one, but as our Centaur neighbours do not bother us, they make sure to keep away any migrating monsters from their land and inform us of anything they see on the boarders."
"You cam go on back ta playin king n queen I got mah house ta take care of." Telias says as something squiggly and distinctly organ like is hurled over his shoulder. "Less you wanna stay and help shovel the s!*& out mah house?"
Maegar laughs at his step-son's memory of his daughter and gave a smile to Telias, talking about his home.
"There isn't likely to be any in there. Winter Wolves are very intelligent and wouldn't sleep where they have their mess, but there might be one or two other things of interest there." he states as he joins Telias, wondering what might be left behind.
The home seems reletivly untouched to most people's perceptions, but Telias notices white and black fur all over the place, covering his bed and all his own little things. Everything has been altered or moved, but the one thing everyone notices is more bones of unfortunate passer-bys who died at their hands. There appear to be no identifying marks on them and all their bones are more than sufficiently chewed.
When Varn arrives.
Lord Varn, welcome. We were just finishing preparing dinner. I like to call it fried ice. Have you ever tasted well cooked winter wolf? I have no clue what it will taste like, but this seemed to be a prime time to try as not many traveling merchants have a supply of fresh winter wolf.
Varn is a little put off at the suggestion and politely declines
"I have already had my meal earlier I'm afraid. I am uncertain if such a intelligent creature should be cooked and eaten, however it is more beast than most other creatures I've heard of them controlling." he states, but he does a bow and get off his horse to greet you at a more even height. "I was just on a regular visit to your wonderful city. After this...er...meal, Would you like to accompany us head back to the capital?"
Telias pulls a knife and goes towards the winter wolf.
"Ima make a coat and sausages outta da sonuvab&*$&."
You can make a survival check if you wish. It'll take sometime to cook, considering it's a creature that radiates cold.
Arriving shortly on scene, Maegar Varn arrives with a small group of heavily armoured soldiers. They arrive on scene, but slow down once they all realise that the combat has ended.
"My scouts saw you in battle and we came to assist, but it appears you have taken care of the beasts yourself." he moves towards the winterwolf and gives a nod "So this was the might Howl of the North Wind? I must admit, I had only heard stories, but never thought a winterwolf would come this far from any mountains or cold climates."
Maegar Varn smiles as he receives his compliments from his son-in-law.
Wow! I am already his son in law! Actually, I was working my way in that direction, but was trying to take my time. Now that Carina and Bron are married, perhaps there is no further need to wait.
Lord Maegar Varn wrote:
"Do not worry. I understand how important edcation is. Otherwise, no one would be able to better themselves." he gives a big smile.
"Thank you, Lord Varn! I promise you that these books will be put to good use.
Lord Maegar Varn wrote:
"However not all books are educational as there are many stories of heroes slaying demons and romances too." he laughs as he notices his daughter blush at the mention.
"Your delightful daughter is such a romantic at heart! We are all very fortunate to have her around! You should have heard her harp playing at the Baron and Baroness' wedding. She plays with such passion and grace."
Lord Varn wrote:
"Are you willing to give your pledge as I have given to you?"
When Zorestar has a moment alone with Lord Varn, he gives the lord his answer.
"My dear Lord Varn. I have come to know your daughter over the last several months and I have become very fond of her as I believe she has become fond of me. I would graciously and kindly ask for your permission to marry your daughter. I promise that I would treat her kindly and faithfully as long as I shall live. Naturally, Alicia needs the freedom to choose for herself if she would like to spend the rest of her life as my partner, but I wanted to ask for your permission before I posed such a question to her. So in a brief recapitulation, my Lord, do I have your support in asking your daughter to accept my hand in holy matrimony?"
Lord Maegar Varn gives you a serious stern look for a moment as you have seemingly tripped over a nerve and he steps closer to you, hand on the hilt of his blade before getting right up into your face and then smiling and grasping you hard into a hug.
"From what my little girl has told me, I'm not surprised you'd ask me first." he then looks at Zorestar with a proud look. "I couldn't have found a better suiter myself. Believe me, I tried. you have my blassing, honorable Zorestar Lebeda."
Varn appears pleased at this and smiles to the group.
"I am glad we can be such great allies in these lands. I hope it never comes to us needing to fight for our land, but if greedy eyes from south or north turn this way I will be glad to fight at your side." he states as he turns to his daughter. "and how's my gandson to come?" he says as he puts his hand on her womb. "I couldn't think of a safer place for my family. They're in your hands, Baron Raslov."
Maegar Varn smiles as he receives his cimpliments from his son-in-law.
"Do not worry. I understand how important edcation is. Otherwise, no one would be able to better themselves." he gives a big smile. "However not all books are educational as there are many stories of heroes slaying demons and romances too." he laughs as he notices his daughter blush at the mention of romances.
Ganit can tell that these men are not the experienced warriors he brought with him last time. Many of them appear to have only just used their weapons in the combat with wolves he mentioned earlier and they remain together, but gladly free to talk to any who wish to talk with them.
Once in a more private room, Lord Varn gives a smile to everyone.
"I did't want to do this in front of my men, but I felt it honorable to do this." he draws his blade and then goes on one knee infront of Bron. "I swear my pledge to the Kingdom of Vertaria and to it's rulers Baron Bronwyn Raslov and Baroness Carina Raslov. In times of trouble, I will come to your aid, as I am sure you will come to mine." after his speech he rises, sheaths his blade again and gives a bow "Are you willing to give your pledge as I have given to you?" he asks, obviously with no pressure intended. It's obvious he's very used to all the formality of bowing before another when swearing this pledge.
A week after the meeting, Maegar Varn arrives, leading a caravan filled with books and some trading supplies. He and the few armed men he marched with have splattered blood from a recent fight.
"These men of mine might be new, but they proved their worth against a pack of hungry wolves." he states and turned to the group, giving Alicia and Zorestar a big hug each. He then turned to Bronwyn, the baron of the land and gives him a hardy shake. "There is something for us to discuss. Infront of the rest of the leaders back in the castle, if you will allow me." he gives a bow before raising again.
Boy, bronwyn is busy! That's what happens when you don't get to the PC in a couple days.
In the morning Bronwyn invites Lord Varn, Jameson and whoever else is around at the time for a ride around the grasslands. He rides slowly, enjoying the crisp air pointing landmarks and telling stories of the many encounters they faces in the region. A couple hours later he suggests the group to stop near a small brook.
So Lord Varn, I suppose you will be returning to your lands soon. I would like to thank you for that unexpected visit and wise counsel. I believe we both have much to gain by striking an alliance between our nascent baronies.
The bard waits for Maegar to respond, and then continues:
I suggest we maintain a liaison that could serve as a bridge between our two cities, a person in a position of confidence who could represent both sides. I would also be as bold as suggest a person for this position; your daughter, milady Alicia, has manifested an interest in walking in your steps to a position of rulership, and this would be a powerful experience to reach that goal. She would be happily welcomed in our lands, given proper housing and security, and the most important part: she would work and develop her own achievements, giving her name and person the strenght she'll need when she comes into a position of power.
Maegar appears to be enjoying himself and admits he's interested in the appearence of a Warg for they are quite deadly creatures. More powerful than a wolf and vastly intelligent. The mention of the unicorn has him just as disturbed as he has no idea what kind of creature would kill such a beautiful and goodly creature. He would like to visit it, however you're all too far away to travel there so he leaves it as it is.
At the talk of co-operation he nods with a smile and agreeing to what Bronwyn says, though stops at the mention of his daughter and pauses for a bit.
"Well...I'd say no and that she belongs with me." he states, but then starts laughing. "Of course, that were if I was a over-protective father who didn't wish his daughter to have her own life. I have no problem with her staying here, she will learn far more from actually acting in a part for your nation than sitting at the sidelines and watching me and others make decisions onwhat to do." he states and puts a hand on Zorestar's shoulder and smiles "Take good care of her. She'll be a handful, I promise you." he travels back with you, enjoying as he looks out across this land and having a good laughs before getting his men prepared and heading out back to Varnhold.
Once Varn returns to Olegs he takes with Alicia in private and with a heartfelt hug, the two finally say goodbye before he turns to the group.
"I hope to meet you again once you have your nation started up." he gives you all a bow in respect "I won't need to bring so many troops with me next time as these lands will be safter and I'll follow the road and the jurney will be safer." and with that he and his men and close friend head out, leaving Alicia behind.
No, we have not met any trolls yet, although we have heard similar tales from hunters. As far as the fey go, we have had good luck with them and I believe we can live in harmony with them as long as we respect their forests and the land. If these fey are evil, well, that is a different issue. When we meet them, we will have to determine whether they are willing to live in peace, or whether they will have to be asked to move. If they are truly evil, then I imagine that the more drastic choice will be necessary.
Regarding these trolls, you say that fire and acid are most effective at staving their ability to regenerate? Most interesting.
"I admit I have never met any and half the stories I heard sounded like it was something else and the other half sounded like they were being mischevious rarther than harming anyone just for fun." he shrugs and nods at what she says "It's very good to see such wisdome in someone so young. You will have a great kingdom down here. I recommend using any fire and acid you have on hand either with spells or alchemists fire and flasks of acid. They are very hardy creatures and won't go down in one blow. I was the one who decapitated one, but it grew back."
Yikes, trolls you say? They sound tough. I have heard stories about trolls that they are nearly impossible to kill. Did you use any special tactic in fighting them?
Varn nods grimly
"Terrible beasts, I lost good men fighting them." he remineces for a moment. "They regenerate so all wounds that are done are soon undone, however we've found that acid and fire they cannot regenerating from. We've only seen roving bands of the beasts, just wondering with no direction. They aren't the most intelligent of foes, but they make up for it with their brute strength and ability to regrow limbs and in one case, a head." he pauses for a momentas he then looks over the group. "Have you encountered trolls? I have heard they have been seen in this area or deeper to the south, but they are rare I hear along with lizardfolk living further south. More than one hunter I've met has told me of run ins with evil fey creatures too, but I have not met any so I cannot judge on that matter."
Carina simply shakes her head as Zorestar continues to insert his foot further and further into his mouth. Turning back to Varn:
So, tell me about Varnhold. What is the land like? Is it plains, forest and hills like here? Or do you have other terrain like swamps or mountains? And what type of vermin did you have to clear. As you know, we had to face the Stag Lord, but also dealt with a variety of other nasties, Thawns, mites, worgs and even swarms of spiders.
"Unlike this land there are no forests, but there are plenty of hills, plan lands as well as mountains too." he states in describing the area. "We've delt with Spriggins, who I mentioned earlier are a relation ot Gnomes, but look more like Goblins and caused us a lot of trouble being the tricksters and troublemakers they are, but I only drove them off. The Centaurs were hard to get along with as many of them attacked us at first, but when we found their village I spoke with the Elder and he accepted our lands as long as we left their lands alone and unmolested. There are also trolls, giant spiders and Ettercaps we've come across, but we managed to drive them away so our lands are safe for our people."
Bronwyn smiles, making the entire situation into a jest.
Spoken for would be a little understatement.
He leans in and wraps one arm around Carina's shoulder. Then he turns to Maegar:
I agree that it may be too soon to reach an agreement on trade, although seeing we both have the disposition to it should be really easy to work out the terms in the future. What we do need is to stablish clear-cut borders between us, so there won't be any disputes. We haven't seen a map for that region, but I believe the mountains east make for a clear-cut natural border. East of that would be Varnhold lands, and west of those would be our lands. What is your opinion on the matter?
"I believe the boarders are for what you've been allowed to map out as far to the east as you have." he points back to the map and looks over all the different notes. "As part of this agreement, we can come to each other's aid if Surtova or some greedy lord of the river nation attempts to claim either of our lands. I havn't gotten too far with my kingdom, but soon enough we'll be equipping men just in case of any attack in which I hope to look to you for aid if such a thing were to happen."
Zorestar Lebeda wrote:
Even with the Lord's confusion, Zorestar is pleased with this initial dialogue.
"Splendid! Splendid! Naturally we will not wish to trade in slaves or poison either! Master Maegar, I think we are both in agreement to a trade between our regions. By any chance do you have any gourmet foods or soft beds that you would be willing to send this way? I think in our future it will be very important that our people sleep well and are well fed!"
"The actual trade, will be left up to the traders, I'm afraid I'm only the ruler and don't know of what exactly can be traded, but we should both make money on taxes on those merchants going between our nations." he gives a polite smile. "I'm sure our Treasurer can make it more clear on the specificts."
Carina Stigard wrote:
Carina looks at Zorestar, and then back to Varn:
I apologize, while he may sound foolish and out of touch with the reality of living here on the edge of civilization, he is a fine spellcaster and a good person. Eventually we will manage to get him a nice feathery bed. Unfortunately until that time, I am afraid we will all have to listen to him complain about the lack of silk sheets and fine linens.
Carina shakes her head will attempting to surpress a foolish smile while rolling her eyes at Zorestar:
Now then, back to business. Once we have established the road to the east, I expect that both our kingdoms will greatly benefit. We have good resources here, and I am sure that your land does as well.
Turning my head and looking over at Oleg:
And most importantly. Oleg, I think it is time to break out some of that good stuff we returned from the Stag Lord's fort with. This seems like a prime time to sample the vintage.
At the proposition of something of vintage to drink he gives a grin.
"That's great to hear. Just like all rulers of nations we shall sit down to drinks and continue these discussions until we cannot talk anymore." he gives a laugh "If it won't cause any trouble, I'd like my men to take part. They have ridden with us a long way and deserve a stiff drink. I'm willing to cover the cost if you wish."
"The mites have been driven back but the kobolds are trading peacefully with us. If you hunt any in our lands we will be forced to take umbrage, Maegar."
Jameson says this in the tone one would use ordering potatoes from the grocer, and it is clear he considers this Maegar to be even less exciting and far less useful.
So like my father, and those who killed my brother.
Maegar puts up his hands.
"As I said, I had no quarrel with the Kobolds as they did not attack us and they are clearly considered your citizens." he states as he clearly looked a bit insulted that he would hunt Kobolds. "I won't hurt any of your citizens, you have my word."
Carina Stigard wrote:
Carina turns and glares at Bron and his cavalier greeting to Alicia, her blue eye shining like ice.
He may not be a man for long if he is not careful.
Turning back to Varn with a smile as she gets the well worn map that we have been using.
Well, while we have not decided on an exact location, I believe our intention is to establish our main settlement a little more than a days ride south of here. I point to where the Stag Lord's fort was.
Where are you looking to build the road from Varnhold? As we have not decided how to fully develop our land yet, a connection to a friendly trading partner would be a good option and something that we would strongly consider.
You know, when I type something like this and read how it is worded, I realize why people hate lawyers.
Alicia backs away slightly
"Oh I'm sorry, I did not know he was spoken for." she apologises and bows her head.
Maegar is sure to answer Carina's questions.
"Varnhold is east of here. If you build a road leading to any of these areas we can start a trading route." he points to any of the areas furthest to the east
Zorestar Lebeda wrote:
Zorestar lights up at the thought of increased trade. "Lord Varn, I mean Maegar, we would be delighted to start some trade routes. I think they would be mutually beneficial to all of the people of this land. I would be happy to analyze the maps with you and calculate the shortest route and help optimize trade. Please let me know your initial conditions and any constraints. Where do we wish to put the endpoints and what hazards, both geologically and zoologically, do we need to consider?"
"I can't think of any conditions, besides certain items I do not wish to trade in slaves or poisons, but beyond that I cannot think of any other conditions on trading." he states and shrugs thinking it over. "We can visit later with the people involved in trading and discuss the terms and agreement." he too appears to be equally confused with what Zorestar said.
in game, this would give you a +2 to economy from the trade between two nations.
Carina, who was still with the rest of the men discussing their future hears the arrival of Lord Varn's retinue. She walks out, having at least had a chance to wash and brush her hair, but still wearing her rather trail worn clothes.
It is an honor to meet you Lord Varn. I am Carina Stigard, and these are my companions. May I present Sir Bronwyn Greenwood, Sir Jameson Addercop IV, the wizard Zorestar Lebeda, Telias, sage of the wilds, and Ganit knight-ranger.
Diplomacy: 1d20+5
Sadly, Carina has little understanding of the formalities of nobles and simply offers her hand in welcome.
Turning to the young lady. And welcome to you as well Miss . . . Varn? You look like you could use a quiet place and some clean water to wash away the dust of the trail. Trust me, I know all about the amount of dust you can gather in a short time on these plains.
Turning back to Lord Varn. I understand that congratulations are due to you as well. We shall have to visit Varnhold once we have established our settlement here in the Greenbelt. But, until then, Oleg has some of the best refreshments for many miles around.
Maegar Varn smiles as Carina's greetings.
"Please, call me Maedar. Lord Varn is my father and for my subjects to call me, but we are equals here, my lady and am delighted to meet you all. Come, let us sit and discuss our adventures." he bows down in respect and takes Carina's hand gently to kiss it. "I admit it must've been difficulty with the bandits you faced, I heard they had organised under some man or half-beast calling himself The Stag Lord. We too had problems with Spriggins and Centaurs, but we have managed to meet an agreement with the Centaurs, but we had to drive the Spriggins out, they were too destructive, but we've left them alone once they were outside the city." he explains as he states his experiences "I remember hearing there was some trouble going on with Mites and Kobolds, but I noticed they havn't been causing trouble or attacking people recently. I think I saw a group of Kobolds we passed, but since they did not attack I felt no need to chase them down."
Varn's daughter gives a embaressed smile.
"Yes well, I do not have any cloths for travelling in the country. My name is Alicia, Alicia Varn and it is a pleasure to meet you." she says as she shakes Carina's hand in a lady-like manner.
The Hermit Ganit D'Artain wrote:
Ganit watches the strangers closely. The lack of subtlety was even greater an insult than the offense itself. The pretty little bird brought it up just like pretty little birds are trained to do and the smile the Lord Varn wore was every bit as condescending as the 'congratulations' they brought with them.
Sense Motive: 1d20+12 (Lord Varn) Sense Motive: 1d20+12 (Little Lady Varn) Sense Motive: 1d20+12 (Chatty Guardsman)
Ganit says nothing and merely spits in the dirt when Carina introduces him as a "knight-ranger" but continues to watch the interlopers with great interest as they dismount and begin treating Oleg's outpost as if it were their own land.
Ganit:
You don't believe Lord Varn appears to be hiding anything about what he says and seems legitimate. However he does appear to express some respect when he speaks of the centaurs, but disgust at the Spriggins.
Alicia Varn appears to be annoyed at her father, but you can tell she still loves him and it's just one of those family things with arguments between two loved ones.
With the man wearing clerical clothing and displaying a holy symbol of Erastil for all to see it isn't difficult to see that he is a cleric to old Dead Eye. He appears to get along with Lord Varn in a friendly manner and they get along like old chums.
With Ganit's stareing Gwen nudges him with a smile.
"Already looking at beautiful women are we?" she grins as she kisses him on the cheek. "Why do you have such a serious look on your face, they seem to be only here for a visit."
Zorestar Lebeda wrote:
When Maeger Varn congratulates the heroes, Zorestar cannot help but smile to himself. He graciously welcomes him to Oleg's. "I am Zorestar Lebeda at your service! I am delighted to see that you could make it to this little haven in the woods. I trust your trip was uneventful."
"Well met, Zorestar Lebeda, It is the least I could do. We are all in the same boat afterall coming down here to tame these lands and start up civilisation. I haven't heard anything yet from the other groups, but I hope they too have been successful." he states hopefully.
Sir Bronwyn Raslov wrote:
Bronwyn approaches the entourage and greets the newcomers warmly. He offers his hand in salutation to Maegar, maintaining eye contact and a firm grip.
Well met, Lord Varn. It's good that we have a chance to meet and talk about future developments. I heard you were a reasonable man, hope we can settle border issues and perhaps hammer down a trading deal. And maybe a friendly sparring if you feel like it.
The knight then gently bows to the young lady, offering an almost-flawless courtly greeting, offering to take her hand and kiss it.
Milady Varn, you seem to have lucked out and get your mother's features. She must be a beautiful woman indeed., he says in a comic tone, hoping to ellicit a friendly laugh from the visitors.
May your arrows always fly straight, and your shots always hit the mark, good priest., he offers the third man, making the simple gesture of Erastil's blessings.
As you see, our operation here is only beginning, but the good master Oleg Leveton and his lady Svetlana have been kind enough to offer us their holdings in assistance. Please be seated and let us wash the dust of the travel from your throats.
Maegar Varn gives a nod and smile.
"Actually I wanted to discuss setting a trade route up with your kingdom. This way traders can be happy going through the kingdoms easier and some may even settle in our lands." he clears his throat "We have been building a road towards your kingdom, but not into it. If you have a map I could show you where you can connect a road if you wish to start trading."
Alicia Varn smiles as Sir Bronwyn's polite manner.
"Thank you, it is a pleasure to meet you too sir." she says with a smile and a courtsy. "You are a very handsome man yourself, Sir Raslov."
"May Old Dead Eye watch over you." the man gives a bow. "My name is Caspar Morgarion, High Priest of Varnhold, cleric to Erastil and long friend of Maegar Varn."
Maegar Varn turns to Oleg and Svetlana.
"I apologise for not greeting you. I have heard you were here and have been a safe haven for the hunters in the surviving area." he says as he smiles to the pair of them. "I heard Tessara of the Wood has been here. She's been avoiding Varnhold but I don't know why." he then discribes a woman who sounds like the one from that arrived at Oleg's with the veil over her eyes and her hood up.
Later that day a group of well armed and armoured people approch the entrance to Oleg's from the south. The doors open and in come a group of eight men and a young woman who was riding with one, however she appears over-dressed for a ride out in the wilderness.
A single man steps foward from the group with a wide smile.
"My name is Maegar Varn and I wish to congradulate the heroes of the greenbelt for what they have done so far." he gives a wide smile to everyone. The young lady behind him putting her hands on her hips and shaking her head. She has long beautiful black hair and shining blue eyes like the deepest ocean. Her dress, though now a little dirty at the bottom from all the riding in the wild, is fit for a noble. The dress is a finely made dark green dress, fitted with precious stones into the design and pattern.
"I told you dad, coming with this many men you were going to give them the wrong impression." Unlike everyone else she appears to be wearing high heels which in this area, are unfit and makes her look out of place just like Zorestar.
One of the men dismounts as he laughs, having a symbol of Erastil on his armour.
"Maegar, you'll have to watch your daughter. She had a great idea with just the three of us. Afterall, we just want to greet these fine warriors and congradulate them, not scare them." As he says this other men dismount and remove their helms, tying up their horses to stay while they go and buy some drinks from Oleg and Svetlana.
