Kingmaker: A Brave New World

Game Master GunMetalDrac

Playing through the Kingmaker AP. Currently on Part 1

Overland Map


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Dot here.


Male Half-Elf Cleric/Ranger(Guide) 1

Dot.


Female Ifrit Bard (Dervish Dancer Archtype) / 1 | AC 17 T 13 FF 14 | HP 10/10 | F +1 R +5 W +2 | Init +3 | Perc +0

Dotted.


HP: 12/12 | AC: 14; T: 13; FF: 11; CMD: 13 | Fort: +2; Ref: +5; Will: +4 | Init: +5 ; Perc: +1 (Darkvision 60') | Hero Points: 3 | Effects: {None}
Daily Abilities:
Laughing Touch 8/8 | Panache 7/7 | Spells: 1st 5/5


Male Human (Kellid/Varisian) Cavalier (Standard Bearer)/Skald 4/1 [ HP: 38/38 | AC: 15 T: 12 FF: 14 | F: +7 R: +2 W: +3/+4 | Init: +1 Perc: -1 | Effects: Raging Song (Inspired Rage)]

Rain.

Of course it would be raining for his execution.

"Giles Farnam! For the crimes of Piracy, Brigandage, Rapine..."

"That's a Damn Lie! She snuck into my tent while I was drunk!" An older, sonorous voice interjected, outrage clear in his tone.

The imposing young armsman stopped to stare incredulously at the genially grinning elderly fellow standing upon the beer barrel across the town square from him, noose securely fastened about his neck. Obviously flustered by the interruption, the proclaimer looked down to the writ in his hands.
Reading though it once more, he turned to the smallfolk gathered around, particularly the family immediately beside him; the father glowering murderously & the eldest daughter simpering, simpering beside him...
Catching the young armsman's gaze, she shrugs, winking at him before blowing a kiss to the accused bandit.

"Ahem."
"For the crimes of Piracy, Brigandage, impeding peaceful travel though the sovereign realm of Liberthane and along the Sellen Basin, you are sentenced to hang by the neck until dead, by order of his rightwise Lordship, Achile Parsal, Lord of Liberthane & protector of her people."
"Do you have anything further to declare before sentence is carried out?"

"Yeah, I've something to declare!" The elder rogue replies, his remaining eye twinkling. "Ye'll never be the stick-up-yer-arse 'Lord Parsal' is young Rufus, so ye might as well not even try!" Laughing at his own joke, the captured river pirate bellows out his 'family motto' before hopping up, kicking the empty barrel from under his feet, to fall into the noose's fatal embrace.

You were supposed to be long gone when the patrol arrived! Achile told you the plan himself!
Everybody knew we were going to have to execute you if we caught you!

Shaking his head in disgust & regret, Rufus Allanas'son Fitzroi glared at the farmer and his daughter until they made their way off about their business for the rest of the day. The other smallfolk meandering elsewhere as the entertainment, such as it was, concluded. Nodding to the footmen present, Rufus & they heaved the hanged body down from the tree which served Liberthane as a gallows before bowing their heads as Brother Niles Farnum, the deceased's actual brother no less, intoned Milani's last rites.

Clapping a commiserating hand on Rufus' shoulder, Niles wheezed phlegmatically. "'e died as would 'ave wanted to lad. 'e knew you couldn't let 'im go. Not an' keep Lord Parsal's peace 'ere so close ta Galt. Too many fleeced on their way ta Gralton an' aren't they just itchin' fer an excuse ta move again' Liberthane an' our Lord. Yer heart's in tha right place, 'e knew it. Did it good you were here ta see 'im off. 'e never could resist a warm bed..." Brother Niles trailed off at the innuendo.

"What manner of motto is 'Verbis Nostrum Perstanis', anyway?" the younger man retorts distractedly.

"That's my story and I'm sticking to it." The older priest mumbles apologetically. "I didn't choose it!" He quickly adds at Rufus incredulous glare. "Besides, it's not as if it'll be the same about here anyway." He adds, holding up a folded parchment. "I'm so sorry, lad."

Thank you all for putting up with a bit of egoistic foolishness. This is the best I could come up with extemporaneously.
Sam Adams, Yes, that really was was his name, was a blast to be around & for all that Johnny Depp put in a magnificent performance as Jack Sparrow; for some of us, he will never be quite the pirate that Giles Farnum was.


Female Half-elf Paladin 2 (Divine Hunter) | HP 15/15 {effects: none} | AC 17 (Tch 12 FF 15) | F +7, R +6, W +7 (+2 vs. Ench.) | Init +2 | Perc +5, low-light vision

Very nice post Rufus. I'm sorry for your loss, and I have the feeling it would have been a blast to share a table with such a guy. But at the same time I like to think I've managed to capture a glimpse of his spirit through your story - and for this I have to commend you. Perhaps once we're far enough into the story we might think about a way to honor his memory within the game itself


Male Half-Elf Cleric/Ranger(Guide) 1

All my respects to you and the dearly departed, Rufus.


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 vented within them by the office of the Regent of the Dragonscale Throne, has granted the right of exploration and travel within the wilderness region known as the Greenbelt. Exploration should be limited to an area no further than thirty-six miles east and west and sixty miles south of Oleg's Trading Post. The carrier of this charter should also strive against banditry and other unlawful behavior to be encountered. The punishment for unrepentant banditry remains, as always, execution by sword or rope. So witnessed on this 24th day of Talistril, under the watchful eye of the Lordship of Restov and authority granted by Lord Noleski Surtova, current Regent of the Dragonscale Throne.

As you hold firmly onto these charters, likely the most important writ any of you have ever held, you make your way to the southern edge of Rostland--and thus Brevoy--practically a spitting distance from the Narlmarches a few miles away. There sits a trading post, the reference point for your deed, and some of you wonder why anyone would erect a trading post in such an isolated place, so close to land few ever dared to tread. It's a simple post, built sturdily from the crumbled ruins of an old fortress, sticking out in the slowly encroaching greenery like a sore thumb.

As each of you arrive, a middle-aged woman greets you warmly, introducing herself as Svetlana and ushering you one by one into her home, making small talk and promising that a hearty meal awaits you. A man just as old stands on the roof, hammer in hand and nails in his mouth, only giving small glances toward you every now and again.


Male Human (Kellid/Varisian) Cavalier (Standard Bearer)/Skald 4/1 [ HP: 38/38 | AC: 15 T: 12 FF: 14 | F: +7 R: +2 W: +3/+4 | Init: +1 Perc: -1 | Effects: Raging Song (Inspired Rage)]

Knowledge (local): 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18, I certainly hope that is a success...

Well, this is what mother wanted. I can only hope this leads to peace for her...

The strapping young soldier looks out across the countryside surrounding the trading post; taking in cover, care, concerns as he assesses this new encroachment from Brevoy upon the least ordered or hospitable region withing the River lands.

"Thank you. How long have the two of you been here?"


Rufus:
You heard talk while your charter was being signed of one of the other groups sent by the swordlords to explore and settle the Stolen Lands. The swordlords sent a relatively experienced band of adventurers known as the Iron Wraiths into the Glenebon Uplands, charging them with purging the hills of the Tiger Lord barbarians and, eventually, to make diplomatic contact with Pitax to work out border issues.

"Only a few months," Svetlana says as she pours a bit of wine and sets it on front of you beside a plate with some sliced bread, hoping it will tide you over until the others have arrived, considering it greatly impolite to begin dinner without everyone present. "It took quite some time to make this place into home, but now that it's almost finished, I think we'll be set for when the winter comes."


Male Human (Kellid/Varisian) Cavalier (Standard Bearer)/Skald 4/1 [ HP: 38/38 | AC: 15 T: 12 FF: 14 | F: +7 R: +2 W: +3/+4 | Init: +1 Perc: -1 | Effects: Raging Song (Inspired Rage)]

GM PM:
The Glenbon Uplands are the farthest point in the Stolen Lands from where we are, yes? They would kind of have to be if they are intended to develop Diplomatic ties with Pitax. How would we go about learning more about the other Chartered groups?

Speaking of Winter, what time of year is it and what year? I'm really hoping closer to the Summer months, 'cause this part of Avistan gets cold!
On a semi-related note. I have the People of the River Player Companion, which among other things has a really nice IC map of the entire Sellen River Basin. If I can figure out how to link just the map, would it be alright GM PM? The scale is such that there aren't really any Campaign Spoiler-level details.

"Have you met with much trade since then?"


Whoops, my familiarity with the Golarion calendar is crap; the charters were signed on the 24th of Calistril, so at the very back end of the winter. As for the other chartered groups, those'll require their own Knowledge (Local) checks. And yeah, go for it; I was going to be posting the region map once I've edited it a bit to remove information, but only for once you're getting ready to depart from the post.


Female Ifrit Bard (Dervish Dancer Archtype) / 1 | AC 17 T 13 FF 14 | HP 10/10 | F +1 R +5 W +2 | Init +3 | Perc +0

Knowledge: Local: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17

Alayini Eraya, or "Alayi" as she prefers to be known as, arrives with her companion(s) at the outpost described in their charters. Strange for a trading outpost to be here. I always thought that the Stolen Lands were for the most part devoid of civilized people.

Turning to her new friend Xelani, Alayi gestures to the ruin. "What do you think this place was prior to being a trading post? It does not look particularly salvageable at the present, but if the location proves to be a good one perhaps we could replicate it."

Left it open for Arawn to be in the group if he wants.


HP: 12/12 | AC: 14; T: 13; FF: 11; CMD: 13 | Fort: +2; Ref: +5; Will: +4 | Init: +5 ; Perc: +1 (Darkvision 60') | Hero Points: 3 | Effects: {None}
Daily Abilities:
Laughing Touch 8/8 | Panache 7/7 | Spells: 1st 5/5

"Appears to have been some manner of guard post or fort." Arawn answers absentmindedly, not realizing the question was directed at someone else. He walks along with his lovely lady companions, whom he met at the tavern after receiving his charter. He had spent the majority of their journey flirting and getting to know them both as well as he could. Now, he studies the approaching structure with interest. "Not glamorous, but it's functional."


Female Half-elf Paladin 2 (Divine Hunter) | HP 15/15 {effects: none} | AC 17 (Tch 12 FF 15) | F +7, R +6, W +7 (+2 vs. Ench.) | Init +2 | Perc +5, low-light vision

"I agree with our young charmer here - though I reckon we're still technically within Brevoy, if only at its very southern edges. It might have been built as a sort of border defense" the half-elven paladin replies to her exotic-lookin friend.

Entering the front gate, she politely nods to the woman greeting her, lowering her cowl to allow her interlocutor a clear view of her features. "Xelani Fyodorova, warrioress dedicated to Erastil's cause, at your service, My Lady." she politely states, immediately taking a step sideways to give her companions a chance to introduce themselves, too. Once they're done, she chimes in once again "My Lady, if it's not asking much, could you see my Katryona here fed and curried? I'm afraid the journey from Restov has worn her out a bit, and though a gentle beast, she might get temperamental is she's denied rest and fodder for too long"

Before entering the house, she lingers a bit outside, trying to appraise the state of the structure.

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21


HP: 12/12 | AC: 14; T: 13; FF: 11; CMD: 13 | Fort: +2; Ref: +5; Will: +4 | Init: +5 ; Perc: +1 (Darkvision 60') | Hero Points: 3 | Effects: {None}
Daily Abilities:
Laughing Touch 8/8 | Panache 7/7 | Spells: 1st 5/5

Whoops, forgot about Svetlana...

Arawn gives the welcoming woman a very formal bow, giving her a winning smile, "Well met, Lady Svetlana. And thank you so much for hosting us." He turns his head up to the man on the roof and waves, "And to you, as well, Master Oleg!"


Male Half-Elf Cleric/Ranger(Guide) 1

This must be Oleg's, over there in the distance, Castor thinks to himself, as the fort comes into view. Oh! Looks like other people are arriving as well.

"Let's not keep our chartermates waiting, now shall we, Capella? Hyah!"

~~~

The sound of hooves thunders in the distance, and soon, a galloping horse appears, carrying a rider in long, billowy clothes. Approaching rapidly, the figure becomes clearer, revealing a thin figure draped in what appears to be a cleric's traveling cloak bearing Desna's rather distinctive butterfly imagery.

The stranger calms his horse to a slow trot as he comes up to the three other visitors approaching the fort, pulling back his hood to reveal the smiling face of a silvery-haired half-elf.

"Good day to you, sir and ladies," he nods, disembarking from his saddle. "This is Oleg's Trading Post, am I correct?"


Female Ifrit Bard (Dervish Dancer Archtype) / 1 | AC 17 T 13 FF 14 | HP 10/10 | F +1 R +5 W +2 | Init +3 | Perc +0

"True, I do suppose this might be right on the border. If so, we should probably establish some kind of garrison nearby to support and protect it. Well, once we have forces to garrison that is."

Alayi follows her two companions into the house, but decides to be a bit less formal than they have been in her introduction.

"I am Alayi bint Hashara, dancer, swordsmith and fighter. If you could get a pot of tea going for me I would be most appreciative."


Female Ifrit Bard (Dervish Dancer Archtype) / 1 | AC 17 T 13 FF 14 | HP 10/10 | F +1 R +5 W +2 | Init +3 | Perc +0

Hearing the greeting of the mounted silver haired half-elf, Alayi nods.

"Indeed, this is Oleg's... well, so we think anyway. What brings you to this forsaken waypoint?"

Alayi smiles, her black smoldering hair flows down her bronzed skin. This almost is enough to hide the fact that her hand is now resting on the hilt of her longsword.


Inactive

Korinne crested the hill, gazing down with both delight and relief to finally see her destination just a little further down the road. That has to be Oleg's Trading Post! Finally, I've been walking all morning and I never did catch up with any of the others that they said were heading this way. Really could have used better directions than what they gave me...

Shouldering her backpack with a sigh, she broke into a jog, eager to get to the Trading Post and hopefully have a rest for her weary feet. As she approached, she could make out what appeared to be a small group of people entering the building and a man on a horse who must have arrived just ahead of her.

As she arrives, she finds herself simultaneously winded as well as ushered into the house by a woman who introduced herself as Svetlana. "I'm...Korinne Bryden," she wheezed to both her hostess and the room at large. "Good...to meet...you...took forever...to get here, been walking all...morning. I kept getting lost! And they told me that they'd already sent several people this way...but I never could catch up to them, even the ones that were on foot like me. I'm not too late, am I?"


HP: 12/12 | AC: 14; T: 13; FF: 11; CMD: 13 | Fort: +2; Ref: +5; Will: +4 | Init: +5 ; Perc: +1 (Darkvision 60') | Hero Points: 3 | Effects: {None}
Daily Abilities:
Laughing Touch 8/8 | Panache 7/7 | Spells: 1st 5/5

Arawn looks upon the newcomer with concern, stepping up to offer her his arm as support, "No, you're not too late. Most of us have just arrived, ourselves. Here, take my arm. Let's get you to a seat."

Mother pus bucket!


Female Ifrit Bard (Dervish Dancer Archtype) / 1 | AC 17 T 13 FF 14 | HP 10/10 | F +1 R +5 W +2 | Init +3 | Perc +0

"No you are not late, take a seat and catch your breath. I hope that tea will be available soon, Miss. My name is Alayi. My friends that I travelled with are Xelani there," Alayi gestures to Xelani with a graceful flick of her wrist, "and Arawn, who is the young charmer guiding you to your seat."

There is no guile in Alayi's smile as she indicates Arawn, but there is a measure of concern for the man.

Such is the power of youth I suppose. I just hope that he doesn't get his heart shattered out in the wilderness of the desert of love.

"The other two gentlemen here have not introduced themselves yet, but I am sure they will when they are ready."


Inactive

Korinne accepts the young man's arm gratefully, her face flushed slightly with exertion and embarrassment. Looks like I *am* the last one to arrive...and just my luck to make a fool of myself now that I'm here!

"Thank you Arawn, I just need to sit and catch my breath for a minute," she says with a sheepish look. "Obviously I need to exercise more, because this is what happens when you run when you're not used to running! Maybe our little venture here will help me with that, eh?"

Once seated, she adds, "Alayi and Xelani and everyone else, it's good to meet you as well." She gazes at the rest of the group, with a friendly but curious expression.

Alayi...one of the fire-touched. I've heard about her kind but it's rare to see them out here...or *any* that have been touched by the elements. Xelani and the Desnan priest both seem to have some elven blood to them. Arawn and the other man have an air of authority about them - warriors?


Male Half-Elf Cleric/Ranger(Guide) 1

"What of you, sir?" Castor asks Rufus. "I can't shake the feeling that I may have seen you before, but try as I might, I can't recall. May we have your name?"

"And dare I say, Svetlana, that your home is very welcoming? It is an honor to be thusly received."


Female Half-elf Paladin 2 (Divine Hunter) | HP 15/15 {effects: none} | AC 17 (Tch 12 FF 15) | F +7, R +6, W +7 (+2 vs. Ench.) | Init +2 | Perc +5, low-light vision

"Another conquest already, Arawn? Alayi and me might just get jealous, you know?" the slender half-elf woman quips in a soft voice, as she watches the young man gracefully assisting their new panting companion getting seated. The gentle smile inadvertently gracing her face, however, betrays - if only for a moment - the sense of nostalgic warmth this scene has just engendered in her.

How old he said he was? 17? He's the same age as Piotr was when...

She snaps back from her reminiscing almost immediately, as she notices how her charter-mates are already deep in conversation. Bringing her tankard to her mouth, she does her best to dissimulate her temporary reverie.

Alayi and Arawn:
During their short trip together, Xelani would have told you about her village having been destroyed and the choice to take up arms against banditry that had stemmed from that - albeit leaving some details purposefully vague.

If she was bothered by Arawn's flirting, she showed no sign of it, instead opting to occasionally quip back with some good-natured humor.

Korinne Bryden wrote:
"Alayi and Xelani and everyone else, it's good to meet you as well."

"Likewise. Truth be told, I feel I must now apologize to all of you who are present - when the Swordlords first told me of exploration charters being issued, I was skeptical about the nature of those who would answer such a call. I now admit from seeing you all assembled here, that no better company of reclaimers could have gathered around this table! Here's to us!" Xelani proclaims, raising her tankard in the air.


Male Half-Elf Cleric/Ranger(Guide) 1

"I never thought in a million years that I would be blessed with such an opportunity, but I am glad to see we have no shortage of respectable people. To us!" Castor replies no less enthusiastically, raising his own mug. "And may the gods bless our journey!"


HP: 12/12 | AC: 14; T: 13; FF: 11; CMD: 13 | Fort: +2; Ref: +5; Will: +4 | Init: +5 ; Perc: +1 (Darkvision 60') | Hero Points: 3 | Effects: {None}
Daily Abilities:
Laughing Touch 8/8 | Panache 7/7 | Spells: 1st 5/5
Xelani Fyodorova wrote:
"Another conquest already, Arawn? Alayi and me might just get jealous, you know?" the slender half-elf woman quips in a soft voice, as she watches the young man gracefully assisting their new panting companion getting seated.

Arawn looks to Xelani with feigned insult, "My Lady, you wound me. I was merely helping a fellow traveler. And you should know I do not consider my partners as 'conquests.' I am not a savage."

He flashes her a grin and winks before taking a seat, himself. As he observes, he focuses on the white haired half elf, "And what of you, priest? You still have not given us your name."


Male Half-Elf Cleric/Ranger(Guide) 1

Huh, so I haven't. I was sure I'd had him introduce himself in a previous post. My bad.

"Oh! Please forgive me; my mind ends up in the stars, sometimes. I am Castor Antares, merely a simple traveler in the name of the Starsong."


Female Ifrit Bard (Dervish Dancer Archtype) / 1 | AC 17 T 13 FF 14 | HP 10/10 | F +1 R +5 W +2 | Init +3 | Perc +0

Alayi takes a sip of her tea, musing. Ugh, I know this is probably 'hot' for most of my companions here, but to me it is lukewarm!

Pouring the tea into the metal cup in her mess kit, she heats it up to near boiling temperature with her hand. Using my Scorching Weapons trait a bit liberally. Taking another sip, Alayi nods appreciatively.

@Xelani:
You would have probably gotten to know Alayi better than Arawn, given you probably talked with her more prior to leaving. She will have revealed to you that her given name is actually Alayini Eraya, but that she goes by Alayi bint Hashara to honor her mother. While she was not ostricized for her blood, many people made the assumption that her mother was unfaithful to her husband, which was false. You will also know that she ardently desires to be accepted into the ranks of the Aldori Swordlords of legend. You will also know the contents of the spoiler directed at Arawn, so feel free to look at it.

@Arawn:
You have learned from your travels and the brief time spent at the tavern where she worked that Alayi is a graceful dancer, as well as a talented smith. You might have also seen her dancing with her sword out, using her battle dance in practice. You will also know that she has a bit of a wit, and while she is willing to flirt with you she never goes any further than that.

Hearing the toasts, she also raises her heated tea.

"Cheers, all. Though I would know what our next step should be now that we are here."


Female Half-elf Paladin 2 (Divine Hunter) | HP 15/15 {effects: none} | AC 17 (Tch 12 FF 15) | F +7, R +6, W +7 (+2 vs. Ench.) | Init +2 | Perc +5, low-light vision
Castor Antares wrote:
"Oh! Please forgive me; my mind ends up in the stars, sometimes. I am Castor Antares, merely a simple traveler in the name of the Starsong."

Knowledge (religion): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19

"Those who wander in the shadow of Desna's wings are seldom just simple travelers, I'm led to believe. Destiny often follows in their paths - even when it's not the other way around"

By the way, I like how you picked astronomy-related names for Castor's background - pretty on point considering his faith.

@ Alayi:
Indeed, shortly after getting their respective charters, Xelani told you how the attack on her village left her not only an orphan, but also a widow


Male Human (Kellid/Varisian) Cavalier (Standard Bearer)/Skald 4/1 [ HP: 38/38 | AC: 15 T: 12 FF: 14 | F: +7 R: +2 W: +3/+4 | Init: +1 Perc: -1 | Effects: Raging Song (Inspired Rage)]

As more newcomers made their way to Oleg's, the large armsman nodded in quiet acknowledgment, observing more than interacting. Though their flamboyance drew the occasional quirk of the lips.
At Castor's query, he replies "No," but breaks into a grin at the other's confusion, adding, "you've one of your own, but I'll answer to Rufus."
:: As the conversation continues ::
Nodding at everyone's writs, he adds, "Unless those say something different than mine, I hope one of you has a measure of woodscraft."
Turning to Xelani "Whether we are within Brevoy's boundaries or not depends much on who you ask."


Sorry, guys. Vet emergency yesterday, I didn't have time to come and keep pace. Glad you all took the initiative and started interacting without me, though.

As you talk, Svetlana urges you as polite into the house as she can, making a few gestures toward her husband as the last of you comes in. He grumbles and follows soon after behind you, not seemingly very fond of having guests. At the table, she sets hearty bowls of thick, still steaming stew before you, alongside glasses of wine and a plate topped heavily with bread. "Enjoy yourselves, please," she implores as she sits down herself for the proper beginning of dinner. "You've come to aid us, and for that, you deserve our greatest hospitality. We've waited many weeks for the guards from Brevoy, and despite my husband's quiet, he too is grateful for having protectors. Just in time, too; we feared you wouldn't arrive until after they'd already come"

You're uncertain what she's talking about, as Oleg's Trading Post was only mentioned to you as a reference point for how far you could travel.

Alayi:
You've heard words about another group in passing. The centaurs of the Nomen Heights have always been trouble, and in an attempt at a show of force, the swordlords sent a group of mercenaries led by one of their own, a low-ranking but eager-to-impress swordlord named Maegar Varn to establish a town and make peace with the Nomen centaurs.

Xelani:
The modesty of the former keeps leads you to believe it was never a hold for anybody of importance. Likely just a border watch keep left to rot. They have done an excellent job of repairing the structure piece by piece; the fixes across the house and the stables and the walls are all rather obvious for how much they stand out against the time-worn original parts, but it all looks remarkably sturdy.


Female Half-elf Paladin 2 (Divine Hunter) | HP 15/15 {effects: none} | AC 17 (Tch 12 FF 15) | F +7, R +6, W +7 (+2 vs. Ench.) | Init +2 | Perc +5, low-light vision
Rufus Fitzroi wrote:
Nodding at everyone's writs, he adds, "Unless those say something different than mine, I hope one of you has a measure of woodscraft."

"I'm more than persuaded they all consist of the same words, up to and including the point where they talk about unrepetant banditry. If we wanted to see a landscape cluttered with gallows, we might as well move to Galt some 400 miles south, I reckon" Xelani replies with a polite smile.

Rufus Fitzroi wrote:
Turning to Xelani "Whether we are within Brevoy's boundaries or not depends much on who you ask."

"Trust me, ser Rufus, few people know better than me how volatile Brevoy's boundaries are. After having to deal with a bunch of Lords, I came to the conclusion that the matter of whether a particular settlement lies within Restov's borders or not mostly depends on whether there are taxes to be collected of protection to be granted" she adds bitterly.

Svetlana wrote:
"Enjoy yourselves, please," she implores as she sits down herself for the proper beginning of dinner. "You've come to aid us, and for that, you deserve our greatest hospitality. We've waited many weeks for the guards from Brevoy, and despite my husband's quiet, he too is grateful for having protectors. Just in time, too; we feared you wouldn't arrive until after they'd already come"

Xelani looks at Svetlana with a quizzical look. "I can't speak for my companions - though, as I was saying to ser Rufus here, I'm rather convinced we all share the same charters - but we pictured your Trading Post would just be our starting point for an expedition into the Stolen Lands. We weren't aware you were under bandit pressure yourselves."


Inactive

Korinne smiles broadly. "Xelani, I like your way of looking at things! To us, and may this be a fruitful enterprise! And having a little luck on our side never hurts either," she adds, nodding towards Castor.

As Svetlana begins serving the meal, Korinne digs in hungrily, having had little in the way of breakfast that morning. At Xelani's mention of Galt, she looks up with a frown. "Galt is one of the last places we want to draw influence from," she mutters. "As for your question Rufus, I'm afraid I can't personally help very much with the woodscraft aspect of things but I do know a little something of magic which may come in handy just the same."

Suddenly tuning back in to what her hostess is saying, Korinne gives her a slightly puzzled look. "Guards? Protectors? I know the writ mentioned something about bandits, but I wasn't aware that they had been troubling this outpost."


Male Human (Kellid/Varisian) Cavalier (Standard Bearer)/Skald 4/1 [ HP: 38/38 | AC: 15 T: 12 FF: 14 | F: +7 R: +2 W: +3/+4 | Init: +1 Perc: -1 | Effects: Raging Song (Inspired Rage)]

"You will have to excuse them," Rufus interjects before Svetlana can respond, "Brevans are not always...
accustomed, to how... fluid events can be here in the River Kingdoms. By your words I conclude there have been brigands here before, also that they have come more than once. How many on average, how often, are they the same band and if so, who leads them."
His demeanor shifts quite rapidly from easygoing to forceful but calm as he holds up a finger for each question he asks.

Not wanting to step on anyone's toes here, but the hosts are looking to us as defenders. If we seem to be easily flustered by this revelation, and by the idea that they need defending so quickly, it rather looks bad. Those are Rufus' reasons for 'stepping on toes'. He is trying to establish that we are in fact competent defenders so to avoid possibly panicking the two of them.


Male Half-Elf Cleric/Ranger(Guide) 1

"Far from me the idea of boasting, but I believe I have some measure of talents where wilderness is concerned. My faith and family has led me to spend much time on the road." Castor replies to Rufus' question.

At Korinne's nod, Castor simply smiles and nods back.

"I know little of the politics that govern these regions, I will confess, but I have no intent of becoming a cold lawbringer. So far as I am concerned, we have been tasked to bringing peace to these lands, not the iron walls of coldly-enforced law."

"Who might "they" be, Svetlana? Has your outpost be troubled by bandits?"


Female Ifrit Bard (Dervish Dancer Archtype) / 1 | AC 17 T 13 FF 14 | HP 10/10 | F +1 R +5 W +2 | Init +3 | Perc +0

Alayi digs into the plate of stew with a relish. At the mention of Galt, Alayi also shakes her head.

"I hope not... the dead make poor subjects. Still, we also cannot abide active bandits within our borders, once they are claimed. I think that we might be able to make most of them see the benefits of joining settlement and adopting more honest trades once we have dealt with their leaders. Well, at least I hope we can."

Alayi gives Xelani a sympathetic smile at that.

Upon hearing that Svetlana is expecting trouble, and that they assume they are the guards promised by Brevoy, Alayi shakes her head.

"We are not here specifically to guard your trading post, but rather to reclaim and civilize sections of the Stolen Lands. I know of at least one other group sent out to do this, so we are not unique. Though given the band I know was mercenaries sent to take back land from the centaurs, I somehow think we might stand a better chance."

Alayi pauses, her eyes turning reflective, then continues.

"That said, I would definately say that since this place possibly falls under our charter, and even if it doesn't you will be the first stop on the road from our new settlement to Brevoy, that we all have a vested interest in keeping you safe. What do you know about these threats against your peace?"


Female Half-elf Paladin 2 (Divine Hunter) | HP 15/15 {effects: none} | AC 17 (Tch 12 FF 15) | F +7, R +6, W +7 (+2 vs. Ench.) | Init +2 | Perc +5, low-light vision

It's ok Rufus. I feigned a little bit of surprise to allow for some little role-playing hustle - which you brilliantly provided. But you're right - we ARE the beautiful people, after all. Speaking of which

"Alayi and Rufus have the right of it, Lady Svetlana" Xelani says, rapidly gathering her wits after her initial puzzlement. "It's true that we might not have been sent here to purposefully aid you, but our long term goals and your plea for help are hardly clashing - on the contrary, even a 1000 miles march begins with the very first step. We will neutralize whatever bandit threat plagues you, and then we will trace its source back into the Stolen Lands and eradicate that too". You notice how her tone, almost excessively solemn at first, has been taking a more determined, almost fierce, inflection as her speech was coming to a close.


Inactive

"That's right," Korinne adds. "I just meant that the writ didn't specifically mention that your outpost here was having problems, but of course it makes sense that if bandits are a problem in this area then they've obviously troubled many that live out this way, including you two." She then smiles. "I think it's time we put an end to that."


HP: 12/12 | AC: 14; T: 13; FF: 11; CMD: 13 | Fort: +2; Ref: +5; Will: +4 | Init: +5 ; Perc: +1 (Darkvision 60') | Hero Points: 3 | Effects: {None}
Daily Abilities:
Laughing Touch 8/8 | Panache 7/7 | Spells: 1st 5/5

The young noble nods his thanks to the woman, and begins eating. He listens to the discussion, raising an eyebrow at Rufus' inane outburst, shaking his head at the others' apologetic replies, and smiling at the pledges of assistance. When he speaks, it is quiet, yet somehow carries over the din, "No doubt that we will need to deal with any bandits in our travels, yet Lady Svetlana has not actually stated that it has been bandits that have plagued her. For all you know, it could be wild wolves. Perhaps we should be silent a moment and allow her to explain her troubles."

He turns to Svetlana and nods, "Please, my lady. Tell us what it is you need protection from. I assure you we will do whatever is in our power to assist you."


Male Human (Kellid/Varisian) Cavalier (Standard Bearer)/Skald 4/1 [ HP: 38/38 | AC: 15 T: 12 FF: 14 | F: +7 R: +2 W: +3/+4 | Init: +1 Perc: -1 | Effects: Raging Song (Inspired Rage)]

The hand Rufus had been holding up, slowly comes back to rest against his face as he quietly shakes his slightly bowed head while awaiting Svetlana's reply.


Female Ifrit Bard (Dervish Dancer Archtype) / 1 | AC 17 T 13 FF 14 | HP 10/10 | F +1 R +5 W +2 | Init +3 | Perc +0

Alayi winces a little as Xelani talks about eradicating the bandits in the Stolen Lands.

"We will make some of these lands safer, it is true. Especially much of this area around the border, given any remaining pockets of bandits will be to the south."

Alayi holds out her hand for Xelani to hold in a sisterly fashion.

I hope her pain eventually fades. It would be easy for her to lose herself in a neverending persecution of bandits. The Stolen Lands and the so-called River Kingdoms to the south east seem to produce a limitless supply, after all.


Female Half-elf Paladin 2 (Divine Hunter) | HP 15/15 {effects: none} | AC 17 (Tch 12 FF 15) | F +7, R +6, W +7 (+2 vs. Ench.) | Init +2 | Perc +5, low-light vision

As soon as Xelani feels Alayi's unmistakeable warmth engulfing her hand, she turns her head towards her friend, a grateful smile on her lips.

Arawn Vasska wrote:
"No doubt that we will need to deal with any bandits in our travels, yet Lady Svetlana has not actually stated that it has been bandits that have plagued her. For all you know, it could be wild wolves. Perhaps we should be silent a moment and allow her to explain her troubles."

"I hope it's not wild wolves - if nothing else because that would make them flying wild wolves, to be able to pose a threat against what would basically amount to a small keep. We just made the most logical assumption given what we know about these lands, 'tis all."

I get it, we were hasty and some of us probably allowed some of their previously acquired meta-gaming knowledge to slip in, but even if mistakes are made, isn't it better to just roll with them instead of pointing them out in-game?


Before it's clear that you seem willing to help, Oleg slams his hand down on the table, earning an angry glare from his wife. He grumbles and stuffs his face with a piece of bread to keep quiet as Svetlana turns back toward you with a pleading look on her face.

"Thank you so much," she said, closing her eyes and tryign not to cry over her bowl of stew. "We were told that defenders were coming, and adventurers likely soon after them, but we hoped you were the ones come to defend us, as tomorrow is when they return again.

"The bandits first visited three months ago, threatening to burn down the camp if we didn't agree to hand over all our furs from the past month. Most of our trade comes from hunters and trappers, you see. Since then, they've returned twice, always within an hour of sunrise on the first of the month. The first time, there were a dozen of them; ten thugs led by a cloaked man with a bow, and a woman carrying to small hatchets. She did all the talking, and said such horrible things to me. She nearly cut off Oleg's right hand just to prove a point. But on the otherr visits, it's only been the crude, hooded man, and a smaller detachment of bandits. He knows we're unguarded.

"We've been asking for weeks, having trappers heading back to Restov appeal for aid. We thought you may have been the promised group of guards, because tomorrow is the first of the month, and we can't continue to pay these 'taxes' to the bandits. Please, help us run them off. If your mission is to clear the Greenbelt of bandits, then please, begin here. We can offer you room and board for night free of charge."


Male Human (Kellid/Varisian) Cavalier (Standard Bearer)/Skald 4/1 [ HP: 38/38 | AC: 15 T: 12 FF: 14 | F: +7 R: +2 W: +3/+4 | Init: +1 Perc: -1 | Effects: Raging Song (Inspired Rage)]

Actually, in Rufus' case, even with meta-knowledge, there is no reason for him to assume wolves rather than Bandits. The River Kingdoms are notorious for Banditry, particularly among those who aren't from them, and he spent the last seven years of his life here learning how to deal with them.

"Did you notice if the other bandits remained the same?" Rufus asks, considering Svetlana's answers.


Male Half-Elf Cleric/Ranger(Guide) 1

"I will gladly offer my help." Castor declares. "I've no tolerance for those who would harm others for their own benefit. Who is with me?"


Female Ifrit Bard (Dervish Dancer Archtype) / 1 | AC 17 T 13 FF 14 | HP 10/10 | F +1 R +5 W +2 | Init +3 | Perc +0

Alayi can't help but smile at Castor's exhuberance.

"You will not fight alone. My sword is pledged to defend this place from these... 'tax-collectors' and their ilk. Still, my condition is that we take any prisoners that surrender willingly. Any that are willing to abandon their lawless ways and attempt to begin a new life should be granted that chance."

Turning to Svetlana and Oleg, she looks intently at them with her black and orange eyes.

"I know it is hard to ask, given they have taken from you, but if they are willing to surrender their arms and pay restitution to you, will you accept that as reasonable?"


Female Half-elf Paladin 2 (Divine Hunter) | HP 15/15 {effects: none} | AC 17 (Tch 12 FF 15) | F +7, R +6, W +7 (+2 vs. Ench.) | Init +2 | Perc +5, low-light vision

Just as Alayi finishes speaking, Xelani gives the impression to be about to make some sort of statement, but in the end her only response is a silent, deep nod of approval.


Inactive

"That's why I'm here," Korinne says with a smile at Castor. "But to be honest, I have no issues with giving someone a chance if they seem truly sincere about changing; I don't actually care much for violence so the less bloodshed the better. On the other hand, sometimes getting rough is warranted so if anyone refuses to stand down or tries to take advantage..." she shrugs.

And MY ax-er magic!

-Posted with Wayfinder


Female Ifrit Bard (Dervish Dancer Archtype) / 1 | AC 17 T 13 FF 14 | HP 10/10 | F +1 R +5 W +2 | Init +3 | Perc +0

Turning to Korinne, Alayi nods emphatically.

"To be honest that should go without saying. Clemancy should be granted those who surrender and second chances to those that would change their ways. Relapses and abuses of the law after that, however, must be dealt with in full accordance with the law. If they are not, then law abiding citizens like our hosts here lose faith in the law and those who perportedly uphold it."

Alayi smiles at Oleg and Svetlana, but it is a grim one.

... much as it seems they almost have... I hope that we change that.

"So do not worry. If our hypothetical-surrendering-'changed-our-ways' bandits turn out not be meaning that last bit they will be very sad at the consequences of their lies."

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