Kragath focuses intently on each individual as they speak, generating his first opinions of those around him.
Gathian: "Very well spoken and well mannered for a 'raging warrior.' Perhaps this little one has more to him than even he knows."
Alexite: "A mage of some sort. What does he mean about following a different path?"
Peregrine: "A Diviner. If he is truely skilled in the art, his knowledge could prove very useful in whatever mission the Swordlords have planned."
Ingle: "Talkative and easily distracted. Could prove a problem, unless he has ways to put those potions of his to use."
Jaska: "Well mannered for a...wait..is he getting on the table!? I take that back. Seems confident in his abilities however."
Carnivyx: "So Carnivyx is her name...doesn't seem familiar to me, though I have been away for nearly two years. Perhaps if I knew who her master was I'd be able to figure out what it was she disliked about me in the first place."
Rorgrym: "And now we come to Rorgrym. I wish I could put my finger on what deity it is that he follows. Hanspur...Hanspur...I should have listened more to the cleric's teachings back at the temple! Oh well, I just hope the dwarf can regain his focus in case we both are chosen for this mission."
Jaska notices Kragath's focus as he talks, and nods to the man, apparently pleased with himself.
"I am an apprentice to Morhan Duskbringer of Lodovka. Recently released of his service to, as he put it, 'Find my place in the world.'"
Knowledge(Local)
Jaska's hand goes to his sideburns as he searches his memory." Morhan Duskbringer, I'm not sure if I know him."
"I too, seek to find my place in this world though this desire comes from my own recent restlessness of both mind and body."
"And where does this restlessness spring from, kind sir Rorgrym, if I might be so bold as to ask?" Jaska inquires, a sly smile turning the corners of his lips upward.
Just as she was settling in with her new potential companions, a young scruffy teen a city messenger by the look of his attire quickly approched Carnivyx and whispered a message in her ear.
With a short, disappointed scowl Carnivyx stands and apologetically speaks to her newfound friends. "So sorry, but it appears I have some matters that need my attention elsewhere."
And just when I was beginning to enjoy myself...
She gives Jonas a parting smile and softly brushes his shoulder as she follows the messenger out of the manor.
Kragath rises and bows to the lady as she prepares to depart. "Farewell, m'lady, and may the Judge of the Gods keep you safe in your affairs."
"What am I famous for?" he says in surprise, turning toward Alex. "Well... as it so happens... that is to say... Perhaps 'famous' is too strong a word, though I am well known in parts north. Small parts, though they be." For a moment the alchemist wishes he hadn't been so hasty in putting his wine glass out of reach. "But famous I will be, rest assured. You have gotten in on the ground floor, as they say. I am a concoctor of potions, elixirs, remedies and restoratives. Amazing applications to bring you vigor and viv. Well, to bring myself vigor and viv. I haven't quite worked out how to get them to work on others just yet. But that is neither here nor there; the secret is just around the corner, no doubt. You could, in fact, say that I also follow a different path as well. I would simply love to sit down and discuss your approach. Most interested. Most interested. Enticed even."
"Oh, I see. I have spoken with a few alchemists a few years ago, I have to say, it is quite intriguing. I do not understand how you do exactly what you do, without having any magical talent born into you, but I know that you can achive quite amazing results still."
He slowly takes another sip from his goblet draining the last of the wine and waving to a serving girl for a new one before he continues "As for my approach to it, well let's see. I think you could say I try to understand the magic behind the rituals, instead of simply memorizing them"
"Hanspur? Hm, I don't think I have ever heard of that god" At least he was fairly certain it isn't one of the Archdevils.
Half rising from his chair, Ingle joins Kragath in wishing Carnivyx farewell. "The parting is more sorrowful for the briefness of the bond. Farewell, fair lady."
"...but I know that you can achive quite amazing results still."
The half-elf visibly inflates at the foreigner's kind words, smiling broadly. "You have it quite right, sir. Amazing results indeed. Astonishing, in fact." His gaze goes distant for a brief moment, the smile still plastered to his face. The far-off look passes as quickly as it came however. "Perhaps you will do me the honor of allowing my humble self to observe your technique. Should we find ourselves travelling together, that is."
Noticing Tor for the first time, an alarmed look lights the alchemists face. "I say, good sir! There appears to be a rodent of some sort perched upon your person. Is that a weasel? What an extraordinary infestation!"
"And where does this restlessness spring from, kind sir Rorgrym, if I might be so bold as to ask?" Jaska inquires, a sly smile turning the corners of his lips upward."I too, seek to find my place in this world though this desire comes from my own recent restlessness of both mind and body."
"I've been wrestling with that very question myself for some time now. The rivers and streams near home no longer bring me the peace they once did. No matter where I go in Rostalnd, even some of my favorite places, and I would feel the need to go somewhere else. Home has, rather uncomfortably, stopped feeling like home. That's partly why I'm here today."
"Hanspur? Hm, I don't think I have ever heard of that god"
Laughs cheerfully. "That's not uncommon really as there are very few temples in his name. He is the god of Rivers and River Travel and his symbol is that of a rat walking on water, or sometimes, a log." His voice becomes more animated. "Even shrines to him are non-existant away from waterways and are most common where river travel becomes treacherous. They say the Sellen River in...far to the west of here has numerous such shrines but I have never been there myself. What makes rivers, in this case, most interesting is that...oh, well, nevermind; I'd ramble on forever." He seems a bit abashed.
Gathien stands on his chair and waves, "Farewell, Lady Carni. A shame you were called away." He then settles back into his seat, listening to the conversation once more.
"No need for shame, friend Rorgrym -- you answered the question you were asked and did so well. It is interesting to me that, despite growing up along a river, I have not heard of your god -- though my family spent far more time with arcane studies."
"Tis the way of the gods, is it not? A moment of pleasure in exchange for a lifetime of discontent?" Waving over the nearest servant, Ingle speaks softly so as not to interrupt any of the other's conversation, "I say, would you happen, perchance, to have any sherry, my dear?"
Carnivyx extends Kragath a courtsey and the slightest wink, "Many thanks Good Sir." hoping to dispel any lingering misunderstanding between them.
She offers friendly "Good-byes" to anyone else who wishes her well before departing.
Jonas stands as Carni does and at her announcement gives a chagrined smile, A short, but distinct pleasure Mistress Carni. He lowers himself back into his seat and looks pleasantly around at the others.
If it is rivers that you are looking, then I suppose the Stolen Lands are good place to look. I have only been on the borderlands that keep this land safe from the bandits and dangerous creatures of the Stolen Lands, but I know many rivers run through the land and it is certainly beautiful country.
The half-elf visibly inflates at the foreigner's kind words, smiling broadly. "You have it quite right, sir. Amazing results indeed. Astonishing, in fact." His gaze goes distant for a brief moment, the smile still plastered to his face. The far-off look passes as quickly as it came however. "Perhaps you will do me the honor of allowing my humble self to observe your technique. Should we find ourselves travelling together, that is."
"I don't know how much you think you can learn from me, to be honest I think it won't be much" he replies and then turns towards the dwarf again.
"I'm afraid I'm not too versed in the divine myself, so I'll take your word for it. I assume he's a benevolent god if people pray to him for safe passage? Or do they do it to not draw more of his wrath?"
If it is rivers that you are looking, then I suppose the Stolen Lands are good place to look. I have only been on the borderlands that keep this land safe from the bandits and dangerous creatures of the Stolen Lands, but I know many rivers run through the land and it is certainly beautiful country.
"I agree. Perhaps the chance to see new vistas will quell the restlessness I feel."
"I'm afraid I'm not too versed in the divine myself, so I'll take your word for it. I assume he's a benevolent god if people pray to him for safe passage? Or do they do it to not draw more of his wrath?"
"A bit of both I'm sure. Mariners are no less superstitious than many other folk and will often do things, often out of habit, simply because they're fearful not to. Of course, as his faith is not widespread, many do not pray to him at all. Even on the rivers it is far more common to hear prayers and placations to Gozreh than Hanspur."
As Carnivyx readied to depart Peregrine stood and bowed very slightly, regarding her with his deadpan eyes. "I am sorry to see you called away so soon. I had hoped that we might be able to discuss you and your master's philosophy on the arcane arts, given the opportunity. Alas, perhaps we shall meet again." He bowed again and sat back down.
Settling in he listened to the winding course of the conversation as it turned to rivers, and then the Stolen Lands themselves.
If it is rivers that you are looking, then I suppose the Stolen Lands are good place to look. I have only been on the borderlands that keep this land safe from the bandits and dangerous creatures of the Stolen Lands, but I know many rivers run through the land and it is certainly beautiful country.
"Yes, beautiful, and to my understanding, dangerous. I fear, though my studies in various areas have often touched upon the region, that I have no first hand experience with it myself. There are certain things I am keen to learn more about however."
"The only knowledge I have regarding the rivers of the region is limited to the Shrike River outside of Restov, which I remember swimming in as a child before I traveled to New Stetven when I was called into the service of Abadar.
Kragath resumes focusing on the introductions and conversations at the table, giving one final glance towards the door at Carnivyx as she departs the great hall, and then resumes scanning the rest of the room in search of any Swordlords who might have begun to mingle amongst the crowd.
Seeing the action centering around a single table, Ridley climbs down from the chair and begins making her way there. "I keep hearing mention of Though She is interrupted by her companion, who tosses her a rolled piece of paper. [b]"Oh, well than, guess we do this one on the up-and-up?" Arriving at the table in time for the formal introductions. Surprising to see so many of the folk here, strange.
"Greetings fellow hopefuls, my name is Ridley, and my clanking companion here is Kisandra. As for what we do, well, I'm something of a sorcerer who specializes in stealth and personality, where Kisa here is mostly just good at hacking people up."
"I most certainly do not...hack people up...as you put it." Kisandra hisses at the halfling. Turning to the group. "My name is Kisandra, and I am here to bring justice to the lawless bandits and sword to the vile monstrosities that plague the Stolen Lands." The armored woman seems prepared to go on further but stops herself, possibly realizing those at the table aren't here to be preached at.
I really like the idea of Kisandra's parents coming into play later on in the game. Depending on how crazy you'd like to get with it, they could be convinced the eidolon version is some undead abomination, and hire on an inquisitor to destroy it.
Gathien cannot contain his surprise at Kragath's statement: "Truly? An interesting coincidence, Ser Lightbringer, for much of my own childhood was spent in that same river -- though in a different settlement."
As Ridley and her companion approach, he stands on his chair and prepares to leap down to greet them, until she identifies herself as a sorceress. He stiffens, straightens up on his chair, and then waves to ladies, "Well met, Ridley and Kisandra... Please take up a chair and join us."
I also have one universal question that I wish for you to think about: How could I personalise certain aspects of this campaign for you? Are there any NPCs that could appear from your past? Heirloom items? Ect. Give it some thought.
...
EVAN FREEHAME
CG Halfling Druid (?!)MOTIVATIONS:
Wants to create a strong kingdom with roots in freedom, to get rid of brigands and monsters.ROLE:
Primary healer and support, with versatility all around.TRAIT:
PioneerLEADERSHIP ROLE:
?NOTES AND QUESTIONS:
Chaotic Good as Druid? Druids must be Neutral in some way or form. Why is he against slavery? What leadership role is he likely to take?
Ha. Good spot! I guess that's why you're the DM and get paid the big bucks. Evan is definitely Good, and then I thought aha! anti-slavery - that's Chaotic. And so the whole sorry mistake was made. He'll be NG :)
Evan has had a very privileged life so far - a good family, free to follow his passion for the wild and for travel, a kindly master in the druidic community. He wants every to have the best life they can - a true, if naive, idealist. You could think of him like one of those young trust-fund hippy environmentalists protesting against BP.
All his life he's heard tales of the hellish life of halfling slaves in Chelliax. He can't imagine anything worse than facing a short miserable lifetime toiling in the stink of a great city for an uncaring master. It's the antithesis of everything he thinks is good in the world. The imposition of one creature's will over another rather than the freely given companionship and mutual respect that he shares with his Animal Companion, is something that Evan regards as 'true evil'.
Possible hooks:
- Not everyone in Evan's extended family is as idealistic. In particular a pair of cousins on the borders of the stolen lands seemed to be falling in with a bad crowd.Where are they now and to what depths have they sunk?
- Any indication that the bandit groups of the area are taking, transporting, or selling slaves will arouse Evan's passionate wrath.
- Who is the Stag Lord, and is he connected to the druidic faith? Not every druid wants to see a balance of civilisation in the wilderness, some might feel that wilderness with brigands is a better situation. Can that be resolved without violence?
- Rumours persist that, in the time of Evan's gandfather, a caravan set out into the stolen lands to found a commune. They assured everyone that they would be welcomed and protected and safe. They did not say who or what would protect them and they were never heard of again. What did they know, what did they seek, and what did they find?
Possible leadership roles:
- Easy ones are the Councilor role or the High Priest role - particularly if we take Worship of the Green as a founding faith of the nation.
- An interesting alternative would be Treasurer. How does a nation balance economic growth with notions of stewardship rather than exploitation of the environment? What does it do to economic policy if the very trees can be unionised and if sentient hillsides own their minerals? Can liberal freedom of association, environmental stewardship, and feudal honor politics work as the basis of a successful nation?
- On the other hand that might all get a bit Political in a bad way, in which case, Councilor :)
Hmm - bit of an essay there. Hope it gives you some insight into where this character is starting from and where he could go. I know that there's some more work and tidying up to do on the mechanics, but I'll wait until after you've made a selection.
The first glass of wine, and the warmth of the room, go to Evan's head. He finds himself nodding along with all the strands of conversation, watching people come and go, without making any real effort to follow or contribute. They'll quieten down soon enough when the food arrives. Chance to have proper natter will come when we're on the road.
Alex nods at the next halfling that approaches the table and her armored companion as well, but doesn't stand up this time "Where are they all coming from, is there a nest nearby?"
"I heard many stories of the Stolen Lands when I was young and the fey creatures that live there. Some of them are really nasty, and I guess I can understand you pray to every god you can think of if you're passing through their territory."
"More than just fey folk to worry about, if the rumors are true. Though I admit, it is the fey that draw my attention most keenly." The server returned at that moment with a glass of sherry, which Ingle accepted with a distracted nod of his head. He spared the new arrivals a perfunctory grin by way of greeting, but his attention was still upon the sorcerer.
"Stolen Lands, you say. Have you given any thought as to whom they were stolen from? Rostlanders would have you believe they once belonged to them. Or to Brevoy itself, if you wish to be more politic about it." Ingle sipped at his fresh drink, a twinkle of approval lighting his eyes.
Peregrine quirked an eyebrow at Ingle's statement of interest in the fey, but said nothing.
"Stolen Lands, you say. Have you given any thought as to whom they were stolen from? Rostlanders would have you believe they once belonged to them. Or to Brevoy itself, if you wish to be more politic about it." Ingle sipped at his fresh drink, a twinkle of approval lighting his eyes.
"In many ways it hardly matters. Nearly every land has been stolen at some point, that is the nature of conquest. No, what is interesting about the Stolen Lands is that they are largely unclaimed in any meaningful way, outside of some overly ambitious bandits."
Jonas' face suddenly becomes stern. Those lands are uncivilized and barbaric. They are stolen from us in the sense that the bandits and fey assure that they will never be of use to good, honest people. Brevoy's claims are as strong as any legitimate kingdom, and the strategic value to Rostland makes their claim paramount. He looks around, as if awaiting a challenge to his points.
"While I admire the sentiment, let us be honest, a kingdom's claim is only as good as their ability to enforce it. And I do not see any troops marching in that direction."
"No, what is interesting about the Stolen Lands is that they are largely unclaimed in any meaningful way, outside of some overly ambitious bandits."
"Perhaps," he replies, staring blankly at the table for a moment, as if considering. After a time he adds, as if to himself, "The fey may take exception to that notion. And the bandits as well. Of course, they're likely to take exception to any notion. Contrary nature's and such..."
Ingle sighs and takes another sip of sherry. "Sir Jonas makes a point though, in my estimation. Strategic value is paramount indeed, Brevoys rightful claims aside. No troops may be on the march, as you say, friend, but Rostland can hardly spare them in any event. Have to keep Issia at bay, after all. But why send charters to explore a land you have no use for?"
"Other nations," he says nations with a bit of scorn in his voice, "have laid claim to the Stolen Lands in the past, though I consider them without merit."
"In truth, the actually value of these lands is not really known. Why waste troops needed elsewhere when they can send people like, well, us? Though, even if the lands are valuable, the current situation makes me wonder whether they really have the means to take advantage of it."
At each new comer Teion introduces huimself at Tor.
When the discussion turns to the divine, Teion chiems in with "How did you know it was Hanspur who called you into service friend dwarf? My own dealings with higher powers have been vague thus far"
to Alex "Yes, there are many ways to practice the arcane arts, what matters most is what we do with the power granted us"
As the discussion tunrs to the journey ahead "I've heard rumors of bandits in the area, though i've never encountered them myself."
He's definetly lying about never encountering bandits.
"The lands themselves may be of little value. But open routes between Rostland and the River Kingdoms? Maybe quite valuable. Maybe not. Would they ally themselves with southern Brevoy, should Issia choose to push it's hand?"
Rorgrym is correct, groups of capable people such as ourselves' will be Brevoy's commitment to the Stolen Lands. I feel that ultimately where the other claimant's efforts have failed is that they did not turn the new lands self-sufficient quickly enough.
To Teion Jonas says, The stories of bandits are true. I have met some in battle myself.
Ingle raises his glass, a grim smile on his face. "Well then, here's to setting everything right with the world." Without waiting to see if anyone would join him in his toast, he drains his glass and lets his gaze drift off, finally settling on the weasel again. "Remarkably well behaved," he says to himself.
"Yes truly all the bandits are a terrible lot." The halfling scoffed. " Ingle I'll drink to that, Let's set things right."
With that Jaska turns up his drink and moments later places the empty cup down, his belly warm. He glances about the room." The suspense is killing me friends."
Rorgrym is correct, groups of capable people such as ourselves' will be Brevoy's commitment to the Stolen Lands. I feel that ultimately where the other claimant's efforts have failed is that they did not turn the new lands self-sufficient quickly enough.
"And if the Stolen Lands were to be claimed under the banner of Brevoy, what then? They would, of course, be annexed into the Rostlands, but given the trouble in the north, how would that be viewed? I mean no disrespect in saying this, but we live in interesting times and must consider the realities of the situation."
Kragath rises, bows, and briefly introduces himself to the newcomers. He then returns to his seat once the two have gotten comfortable.
He listens intently to the conversation, and when it turns to the Stonelands and claiming it in the name of Rostland, Kragath becomes lost in his thoughts for a short moment.
"Perhaps the answer to my vision is in fact the reclamation of the Stonelands. Maybe it was Abadar's will that I receive this invitation, and not the work of my father..."
"What you all speak of is true. The people of Rostland have long believed the Stonelands to rightfully belong to them. It is also a wise statement, Lord Fetch, that a country's claim may be only as strong as their ability to enforce it. But tell me this, and I mean no ill will in this statement, it is simply a reference, but if bandits were to claim your families lands and displace you for quite some time, would you not still believe those lands were rightfully yours even if you were unable yourself to reclaim them?"
Kragath takes another sip from his wine glass, listening to the conversation with a keen interest, his green eyes alight with excitement and focus.
Gathien shifts in his chair uneasily, trying not to comment. Despite being born here, my family is new to these lands, and so perhaps my grasp of their history is incorrect... Although I cannot believe what I am hearing from some of these longshanks.... What are they saying, that might makes right? Are we no better than the orcs? That way lies madness
Finally, unable to contain himself, he speaks in an outburst, "So, then, what I am hearing is that having one can only claim ownership of something if one has the might to enforce that claim? Does this extend, too, to personal property? What about the person themselves? If you can take away one's nation because you are the stronger and then say that they no longer have a claim to it, then surely you can make these arguments as well -- allowing the 'strong' to take the goods, the wealth, and worse, the security or dignity of those weaker than themselves -- enslaving them either in effect or in fact. Using strength to take from the weak is unjust, lest you think yourself no better than the orcs. Those lands were Brevish, and they are no longer, and they were taken because the Kingdom was too weak to hold them, true - but that does not take away Brevoy's right to them any more than the Half-Elf would lose the right of ownership of his precious bottles if I rolled him in an alley later."
Realizing he was leaning forward, he then sits back, embarrassed by his outburst.
Startled by the sudden outburst from the Halfling, Kragath quickly regroups and tries to get the intent of the little one's message.
"Perhaps this is what he means by a raging warrior."
When the halfling sits back in his chair, Kragath interjects, "Ease yourself Gathien. We are simply talking about how the Stonelands themselves are a land that is unclaimed, yet claimed by all who would want dominion over the region. However, as Sir Fetch pointed out, none have given a serious attempt at it in quite some time. And the point I made earlier in turn reinforces this point, but perhaps I should rephrase it. Let me see..." Kragath ponders for a brief moment, then resumes. "Allow me to use your reference, Gathien. Let us hypothetically say that you indeed were to 'roll' Mr. Farwen in the alley later this night, and claim his potions as your own. Perhaps you do not use them, and you pass them on to your children, and they to theirs. Who do your grandchildren believe the potions belong to? They have been in their possession for as long as they can remember. Yet if Ingle's decendants come along and state that they are the rightful belongings of the Farwen line, who is in the right? Obviously then it would fall into the jurisdiction of the laws of the land, and in that case, Abadar's will be done. But hypothetically speaking, who has claim?"
"What you all speak of is true. The people of Rostland have long believed the Stonelands to rightfully belong to them. It is also a wise statement, Lord Fetch, that a country's claim may be only as strong as their ability to enforce it. But tell me this, and I mean no ill will in this statement, it is simply a reference, but if bandits were to claim your families lands and displace you for quite some time, would you not still believe those lands were rightfully yours even if you were unable yourself to reclaim them?"
"Of course I would believe they were mine, that is only human nature. However were I to fail to enforce my claim through force of law or force of arms no amount of believing would change the reality of the situation. Ultimately a claim that cannot be enforced is nothing but words. And consider this, how long before the occupiers begin to believe themselves the rightful owners? What if my House took back the lands a hundred years hence, would the descendents of the bandits have no claim, or right to fight? And what of the people my House took the lands from in the first place, is it anymore rightfully ours than theirs? Hmmm?"
"No, this type of thinking muddies the waters. I stand by my assertion, a claim that cannot be enforced is meaningless and no amount of "right" changes that."
"Perhaps it is my small size and upbringing, or the fact that both my parents were slaves, but I cannot agree with the notion that might alone is the final arbiter. However, as per your analogy, I would argue that despite what my own grandchildren might believe, the rightness of the claim lies with Ingle's offspring. Now, I am not saying that this particular situation is not made complex by the passage of time and the generations who believe themselves the holders the land -- I am quite certain that there are a number of innocents who will be disrupted if Brevoy presses its claim... and I am not so naive as to believe that the whole of these lands are dark fey and lawless cutthroats."
With that, he takes a sip from his wine to wet his throat once more, and continues quietly, "The effects on these people -- these blameless people -- are real, and worthy of consideration and discussion.... But, apologies, Ser Lightbringer, but that, to me, did not seem to be the direction that this conversation had been heading. Perhaps I jumped in too soon."
True, without the ability to reclaim the land the right to it is moot, that I think we can all agree to. The fact is, the bandits nor the more nefarious fey claim the land, seek to settle it, or to use it in a productive manner. They use it as a convenient place to dwell while preying upon others. Those fey that are not evil nor dangerous can co-exist with potential settlers, and therefore they are not an issue here either. To put the "rights" of bandits, brigands, and monsters above people looking to make a peaceful life is not a moral high ground, it is just supporting anarchy for anarchy's sake.
True, without the ability to reclaim the land the right to it is moot, that I think we can all agree to. The fact is, the bandits nor the more nefarious fey claim the land, seek to settle it, or to use it in a productive manner. They use it as a convenient place to dwell while preying upon others. Those fey that are not evil nor dangerous can co-exist with potential settlers, and therefore they are not an issue here either. To put the "rights" of bandits, brigands, and monsters above people looking to make a peaceful life is not a moral high ground, it is just supporting anarchy for anarchy's sake.
"I agree, but I was referencing the territory and the other nations laying claim to it, not the brigands and monsters who currently exploit the area. My apologies if I did not clarify this properly."
Ingle grows visibly unsettled at all of this talk of "rolling" and absconding with his elixirs and what not. "Bit of nastiness, that," he mumbles, running his hand along his belt to ensure nothing has been stolen already.
Reassured, he ventures to add, "Good points, all. But it's all merely a matter of settling your conscience in any event. We've all come here to do this thing, or aid in it if we can. And with or without us it will be attempted. Best to find a way to see it done guilt-free. So believe that Brevoy has a claim to it, or that no one does. Your choice. Either way, you'll sleep better at night."
Gathien turns toward Ingle, astonished: "Truly? Well, although it may surprise you, allow me to say that some people worry about the rightness of their actions for reasons other than whether or not it disrupts the time we spend on our pillows, Alchemist."
He then shakes his head and reaches for his wine before he says something else he might regret.
"On the contrary," Ingle says, peering into his now empty glass. "It doesn't surprise me one iota. But you misunderstand me. My point is simply this: we may disagree on why this... this mission, if you will, is the correct course of action. But no one here is arguing whether it is correct. Perhaps we would all be a bit less... unsettled, if we agree to disagree as they say. Ultimately, or goals are the same, even if our reasoning differs."
Gathien can't suppress a chuckle at Ingle's statement, "That may be the first thing you've said that I agree with." ...Though I worry what happens to those goals if they are re-examined in light of what we may discover... especially with these differences in reasoning.
"I came here on invitation from the Swordlords, whose request of us has, to my knowledge yet to be revealed. If their mission goes against Abadar's plan, then I will have no part of it." Kragath's talk eventually becomes little more than a mumble, half to himself, half as a continuance of his previous statement. "However, the signs I have received seem to indicate otherwise..."
"I came here on invitation from the Swordlords, whose request of us has, to my knowledge yet to be revealed. If their mission goes against Abadar's plan, then I will have no part of it." Kragath's talk eventually becomes little more than a mumble, half to himself, half as a continuance of his previous statement. "However, the signs I have received seem to indicate otherwise..."
"I agree. When I first arrived, I had heard many rumors and little more than was heresay. But the more I've come to understand makes me feel that a land inhabited, largely, by those who prey on others is a land ill-used; regardless of who actually "claims" it. Though right now, nobody seems to be claiming it and are, in fact, not even certain whether it is worth claiming. Which brings us back to why I believe we've been summoned in the first place."
Is silent for a moment.
"Though the more I think on it, the more I wonder that many of these "claims" have been little more than political posturing rather than any actual desire for the land itself."
Suddenly the doors slam open, and an armored dwarf walks in. Removing his helm and cloak, and handing them to the nearest servant "there's a good lad, keep those for me" He quickly grabs a glass of wine, chugs it down easily, tosses the glass to the same servant who barely manages to catch it, then turns to the gathered guests "Well? Have I arrived in time for the party lads? "
As the conversation continues down a political path, Tor and Teion share some silent communication. Sighing and nodding, teion stands.
" Forgive me, my new friends but we've been made aware of a situation in my homeland and I can no longer avoid returning. May your gods speed you on your jounrey."
"I agree. When I first arrived, I had heard many rumors and little more than was heresay. But the more I've come to understand makes me feel that a land inhabited, largely, by those who prey on others is a land ill-used; regardless of who actually "claims" it. Though right now, nobody seems to be claiming it and are, in fact, not even certain whether it is worth claiming. Which brings us back to why I believe we've been summoned in the first place."
"Indeed, I think we can all agree that allowing these lands to remain as they are is less than an ideal solution.... Still, I do not think this a pointless discussion, if only to provide us each with insight regarding our possible new companions.
Gathien stands and waves as Teion and Tor start to leave, "Fare thee well... I will continue to hope that you might break your curse... "
He then turns to the newcomer and says, "Coincidentally, Ser Dwarf, a seat has just opened at our table. Care to join us? I am Gathien Toran, and while it will be a test of my memory, allow me to introduce my fellows.." Gathien goes through the group, pointing to each in turn.
Upon hearing the doors being flung open violently, Kragath rises quickly to his feet, his hand reflexively moving to the longsword at his side. Upon seeing the dwarf and his demeanor, he slowly begins to sit back down.
"Belligerent fool of a dwarf. Storming into the mansion of the Swordlords in such a manner is a good way to have your head politely removed from your shoulders, no matter it's height from the ground."
Seeing the "brothers" excusing themselves, however, Kragath bows politely. "May the Master of the First Vault guard your travels, and may you find a way to remove whatever curse has befallen your brother."
Noting the raucous dwarf's interest in our table, Kragath extends his arm to the now vacant seat once occupied by the elf. Once seated, Kragath takes his own seat calmly, keeping an eye on their new guest while Gathien makes the introductions. Kragath raises his wine glass to the dwarf when his turn comes around.
Striding over, Mundin graps the halfling forearm in a sturdy greeting. "Mundin IronHand's me name, of the Clan IronHand."
Looking at the axe carried by the halfing, "Ye fancy yerself a warrior lad? Perhaps a friendly sparring when this party is over."
Taking the offered seat, Mundin pulls out his dented tankard and some dwarven Ale, the last he has, and filling his mug, raises it in salute
"Never make deals, friends, or enemies sober!"
Draining his mug, and releasing decent but not impressive belch, Mundin waves for more wine.
1. Why are you interested in working with the Swordlords of Brevoy?
They are well known, and in positions of power. Good allies to have, and he hopes they can pay well for his services. At least one of the local noble families has good relations with dwarves in the area.
2. What is your motivation to reclaim the Stolen Lands? Adventure, fame, fortune, and the chance to bash some heads. Fey and bandits are to types Mundin has no love for and would enjoy lessening their number.
3. What will your character contribute to the group? Strong melee with reach, sturdy frontline fighter, short range thrown weapons, good humor on the trail to keep spirits up.
4. What are your plans for your character mechanically? two weapon fighter all the way. Eventually dual weilding dorn dergers once he progresses far enough down the two weapon fighter archetype to weild a non light weapon in his offhand with less penalty. Taking feats from the dwarves of Golarion to make the doirn derger a one handed weapon.
5. What are your plans for your character from a story-perspective? He's out for adventure, to become clan heroe, and to have fun. He enjoys fights, strong ale, and good friends. perhaps some of those gathered posses the fortitude to journey with him into the unknown