Ryuko's Forging of a Kingdom (Inactive)

Game Master Ryuko

Watch five intrepid adventurers bring the whole of the Stolen Lands to civility.


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HP 15/15, AC 17, touch 14, ff 13

Marcus' throat clenches as Kheldor falls from the bandit's attack. Swinging his cross is to bear, he feels relief as the joint figure of both Gildas and Arkady crash through the forest, piercing the man's rib cage cleanly through the heart and stamping him into oblivion.

"Abadar be praised," Marcus calls out to Arkady, "It appears that travelling here has damaged my crossbow."

This time Marcus swings his crossbow towards Kressel and pulls the trigger, praying that this time his bolt will fly true.

Attack @ Kressel: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 3 = 13
Damage @ Kressel: 1d8 ⇒ 8
Bonus damage, if applicable: 1d6 ⇒ 6


Status:

Status: Round 4
Base AC: 16 in Breastplate
Stance: Standing
Current AC: 16 melee, 16 Ranged
Max Hit Points:10
Current Hit Points: 10
Channel Max Uses: 6
Channel Current Uses:4 (two expended previous day)
All wilderness set spells available.
One use Guidance in effect.

Anton grip tightens on his greatsword. He watches as Kressle approaches ready to go the her if she stops.

Hold action: trigger to move to Kressle if she stops and he is within one move action of her then attack with standard action, otherwise he lets her approach and attacks when she is in range.

"I welcome your presents, wayward warrior, and will give of my own, fight with courage and you may enter the Eternal Battlefield."

Attack if triggered:

Standard action:
Melee attack with Ferocious Strike and Guidance.
Attack w/ Greatsword 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7
Damage Greatsword on Hit 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (4, 6) + 5 = 15
On Critical w/Greatsword to Confirm Threat 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17
Critical Damage 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (2, 5) + 5 = 12

Anton eyes glow eerily blood red with Gorum's Blessing of Fury in Battle. An unearthly scream rips from Anton's throat as his eyes lock on the bandit standing directly in front of him.
He swings his greatsword in a lazy eight toward Kressle's abdomen attempting to sweep aside her axes but is swiftly parried.

What a bad roll!


Male Human Super Cruel DM 10

Kressel looks around, seeing that not one of her fellow bandits remains standing, and suddenly changes faces. "All right. Screw the Eternal Battlefield, I surrender." She says this as she tosses her axes to the ground with a disarming smile.

Combat over!


Kata dashes over to the fallen Kheldor and kneels. Blackthorn, I should have asked for a curing spell!

Heal to stablilize 1d20 ⇒ 11


Male Human Paladin 2

Arkady, seeing Kata at work on Kheldor, assumes all is well and moves his horse closer to Kressel. If she turns and runs I can chase her down on horseback, while Anton is too slow. She has yielded, but let us see if she can be trusted.


HP 15/15, AC 17, touch 14, ff 13

Marcus watches Kressel closely, reloading his crossbow quietly as he does so. He flicks his gaze to Anton, aware that the Gorumite might not be happy with this turn of events. However, if he understood Anton's beliefs then he wouldn't obstruct Kressel's execution if it came to it, as she had surrendered.

"Is Kheldor alright?" Marcus asks Kata.


Anton is about to launch an attack when the formidable looking opponent suddenly surrenders and he notices the battle is over before he could even arrive. Once again I fail you, Lord of Battles.

"That is disappointing but given your men have fallen and you're between a Knight and a Blood Chosen, likely a wise choice if the Eternal Battlefield is not your desired destiny."

Looks around the area, with a crestfallen air, to see if there is anything else he should notice, when he hears Marcus ask his question of Kata.

"Is Kheldor hurt? Does he require the aid due a fallen warrior?" At least I can do something in your name, Reviver of the Worthy Fallen.

"Arkady, Marcus, would you be so kind as to secure this one and the battlefield as I attend to Kheldor."

When he gets to Kheldor Anton casts Stabilize and then takes the time to spontaneously cast Cure Light Wounds dropping Command.

Cure Light Wounds 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9

A golden light appears around Anton's hands as he touches Kheldon's cut, the blood flows into the light, staining it red, as the wound closes.


Male Shadeling Shadowcaster Wizard 5(Shadow Subscool)/Veiled Illusionist 1

Kheldor gets up slowly, needing Kata's help to stand. "Ooh. Ouch. Ugh. That hurt, a lot. Ooph. Thank you kind sir, for the timely aid." He says to Anton.

He gingerly walks over to the where Kressel and the rest are. He whispers softly to Anton "I say we get as much info out of her as possible, then execute her. This one gets no shot at redemption"


Male Human Paladin 2

Arkady continues watching Kressel, while calling "Anton! I would greatly appreciate it if you could tend to my noble steed, and then some incidental scratches I have." Blood trickles slowly down his side, hardly visible against his red tabard.

He considers Kressle. Capable leader, with the men under her command up early and responding very quickly to a surprise attack. Devlin (and Happs) both described her as ruling by fear, and indeed her gaze put impressive backbone into her men. Few footmen would stand up so well against a charging lancer. It seems out of character to him for such a leader to surrender so calmly instead of fighting or running.

If Anton (or anyone else) approaches him, Arkady murmurs, "I do not trust this Kressle not to run. We should bind and question her. She might be a strong leader, but I am not fond of those who lead by fear. It works with many, as my brother Petrov showed, but it is brittle. One should lead men from the front, not drive cattle from the rear."


"Thank you Anton. I had no healing this day." She sighs with relief as Kheldor wakes and she helps him to his feet. Looking over at the others with Kressle, she says, "Let's bind our sleeping bandits. There are two on the ground, plus the lookout up above. We should be able to learn more about her and them from the one I charmed, but after that freakish chase, I'm not inclined to show any mercy."


Anton quietly replies to Kheldor. "Any brave soul, such as yourself, deserves the aid of the Lord in Iron. I do believe that ones fate is dark but I want to hear all their stories, perhaps she can sway us, miracles do happen after all." Anton rueful statement makes it clear he does not expect a miracle today.

A fell and competent leader, could be valuable on the Crusade but will the other's desires for justice leave any opening; oh well, she may be all bluff, I've seen nothing of valour from her yet.

Anton comes over to Arkady when called. "We must secure the bandits quickly, I'll channel healing then when we can be safely out of range of the bandits or they will be healed as well."

Standard action:
Channel Positive Energy: 1d6 ⇒ 6
Status change: Use 1 of 6 channels leaving 3 channels.
Healing everyone and their horse that needs it, not the bandits though unless some party member requests it.

Any of the bandits injured?

He listens to Arkady, "Doubtless untrustworthy, but I would hear all she and the others say, but separately, and I know you dislike her style of leadership but I hate to lose any effective warrior when the needs are great. But the sun is just rising over the horizon now, we have some time to consider both justice and utility. I will not gainsay your devotion to the former over the latter, given your excellence as a mighty rider, Sir Arkady, if that is your choice." It's clear that everyone, especially Arkady, has gone up in Anton's esteem.

"All praise goes to the Lord of Battle, any who fight can call upon him, Kata. I understand how you feel but all warriors are trained that, when confronted by magic, 'Kill the mage' ranks even above "Charge the archers'. It may seem to be vindictive, and probably was, but I would do the same just to protect all of you. Let's hear what they say, we have the time." The first rays of the dawning sun strikes Anton's armor, outlining him in its fiery glow.


Male Human Super Cruel DM 10

The bandits are bound quickly before they awaken. Question at your leisure

Kressel shakes her short brown hair from her eyes and gives a pretty smile when someone goes to tie her up. "Ooohhh Kinky." She says with a grin in her voice.

Sense Motive DC 10:
The attempt to cover her fear is not entirely successful as the smile and words are obviously false.


Male Human Paladin 2

Arkady pulls the arrows from himself and Gildas, then sighs with relief as Anton's wave of golden energy seals the bleeding gashes, leaving only a ragged bruise along his ribcage.

"My thanks, especially for my horse.". He turns to look at Anton. "in the long run, utility is just, and justice is useful. If we can take any of these bandits and make them honest, that will be better than slaying them, both for us and them and for all the folk who will live in these lands. But fire is useful too, and dangerous. These folk have a long path to walk. Even if these lands were too risky to settle, they could have hunted, or worked for Oleg, or herded cattle, instead of stealing. So we will hear them out, but I have few high hopes." He turns to binding the bandits with a will.

Sense Motive at Kressle's words: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (8) - 1 = 7

Arkady turns away with a mild look of disgust, though a keen eye might see that it's more disgust at himself for finding the situation arousing than disgust at Kressle. "We should search the camp and see what can be gathered of value, or in proof of crime.". He unfastens his horn from his belt and blows the notes that signal the ending of a hunt, and incidentally tell Devlin and Silas to bring the horses up. The cart here will serve to carry away anything of value,and the two can load anything useful into it, or load the horses down with any goods or clothing that may be valuable. "Waste not, want not." When they come up, he sets them to searching the camp, keeping an eye on them when possible to see if they are looting anything for themselves instead of putting it in the common store.

Arkady checks the downed bandits. If any are still living he drags them separately to the side. "It may be some are worthy of a second chance. If not, we can execute them before they wake. Now, let us hear what our captives have to say. How did they come into this life? What have they done? What can they tell us of other bandit camps? Of each other? Of their leader, this Stag Lord? Can any offer a reason why we should not behead them on the spot?. Before questioning the captives he asks Devlin to name them and describe them and their characters.

Status:

Arkady hp 11/12
Gildas hp 15/15


Sense Motive (Kressle) 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22
Sense Motive (Arkady) 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9 We'll say she didn't catch that look :)

Kata stares daggers at Kressle. "How's it feel for you to be afraid now b&$%$? Tables turned, eh? I'm sure you're innocent as a babe."

To the others she says, "That lookout I charmed should be very cooperative for the next hour. He'll be quite chatty. We should be able to learn both his nature and corroborate any information from Devlin and Silas."

Kata will help with the questioning and also with searching the camp as needed.


HP 15/15, AC 17, touch 14, ff 13

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8

"If she is anything like Happs, she'd sell her own mother to secure her survival. I vote we interrogate her, then treat like we did Happs," Marcus' voice is deadpan.

Intimidate: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 1 = 2


Male Human Super Cruel DM 10

Kressel forces another grin at Kata's words. "Innocent, Gods no. I'm a rough and tumble little b#&$@ you'd never want to cross, but I can be useful too." She seems to be attempting to make herself look more tempting, in a moment when it seems no one is looking she uses her teeth to tear a bit at the top of her already slightly revealing shirt to show a bit more. "Be hard to sell me mother since she happens to be dead. And since Happs is gone I'll lay money he's dead too. Damn shame that, he was a hell of a man in the sack. Wonder how good the man who killed him is. Which of you was it? Bet it was the big lad here." She says this while indicating Anton. "Is all of you the same size big boy?"

I apologize for the overt sexy. It's a little odd doing it but it's how my DM played Kressel and I found it... an interesting direction to take her and it makes her a bit more interesting than the books listed 'f&&* you' mentality. She's trying to gamble for her life using the only coin she has.


HP 15/15, AC 17, touch 14, ff 13

Marcus rolls his eyes at her display. She must take us for fools, he thinks to himself, as he ponders on how best to approach this situation. She presents our best chance for information on how to deal with the Stag Lord. Yet we can't bargain with her, as she's admitted she's not an innocent party.

"Kata, are you able to charm her like you did the sentry? I bet she has all kinds of information she'd volunteer to a friend," Marcus eyeballs Kressel as he speaks, trying to gauge her reaction.


Male Human Paladin 2

Arkady simply stands and watches, not having any idea of how to handle Kressle. He knows what he'd like to do, but abusing prisoners is definitely against the code, and he has a dim idea that just maybe she wouldn't be that trustworthy of a wife either... besides, there's the girl back home to. be. faithful. to...

He thinks really hard about cold baths.


Sense Motive 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20

She controls her fear well, but is it courage or false bravado?

Anton find her classless brashness as unappealing as it was unrefined.

She would sell herself to a victor, does she know any other way?

"Kressle, if your intent is to die quickly, you're doing well, if not, perhaps you would tell us how you fell into a life of banditry. I, at least, would hear that story. In any event, harlotry will not avail you, these fine warriors see themselves as protectors, not a rival gang of thugs." Anton looks at her intently, waiting for her reply but with growing indifference for her fate.


In response to Marcus's query, Kata replies "Sure, but not until tomorrow. I am out of such charms today. If we need to make a decision on what to do now, we must resort to other means."


Male Human Paladin 2

"Are there any bandits out and expected back?" Arkady asks Devlin (when he gets there). "How many are usually here? Is this all of them? If not, we have some time to decide about these others."

He seems slightly relieved to have some practical military issues to deal with, and carefully keeps his gaze away from Kressle.


Male Human Super Cruel DM 10

"A story. I could tell you a story. A story of a little girl from Absolom who became a whore to feed her daughter. A whore who grew to resent the extra mouth to feed. Always another mouth to feed. And then of how the woman got an idea. Sell the daughter to an old and ugly nobleman of Brevoy with a taste for children. Heard me mother made a pretty penny for me." Kressel looks hurt and downtrodden for a moment, maybe a bit of herself showing through the bravado. "And then take that girl, grow her up about five years and have the nobleman set upon by bandits. The Stag Lord's bandits. He gave me a blade and asked if I would fight for him. I killed the nobleman, and I've been his ever since, body and soul." Kressel shakes her hair back and stares daggers. "How's that for a story for civilized folk?"

Sense Motive DC 17:
1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 17
Every word and gesture is a lie. A clever lie, and a pretty good one, but a lie nonetheless.

Devlin looks at Kressel with a new sadness as he approaches. "Gods be good. Your own mother? No wonder she's so touched in the head." The boy seems rocked and runs a hand through his dark hair as he answers. "Aye, there's five more boys out. Probably hunting or roughing up trappers."


Male Human Paladin 2

Sense Motive on Kressle: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (17) - 1 = 16

Arkady shakes his head slowly. "A sad story, truly. I would execute that fool of a nobleman if I caught him, but it seems you have already taken care of that. But... you served the Stag Lord utterly. I can see why, but that loyalty to him makes it hard for us to trust you to be anything but a bandit." He winces and turns away.

"Devlin, you and Silas start loading up that cart. Round up any other horses around here, get everything on the cart it will carry, strip the dead. Which way do bandits usually approach this camp? We may be able to set another ambush for them. Are they usually alone or together?"

And where is Silas?


Male Shadeling Shadowcaster Wizard 5(Shadow Subscool)/Veiled Illusionist 1

Kheldor pushes back his hood to reveal his purplish-black hair and golden eyes. He then kneels down in front of Kressel and says "My friend over there is rather big, but kinda dumb and I couldn't tell if he was big all over or not. But let me ask you this, wouldn't you rather have a man who is experienced in pushing the boundaries of human body, and then shattering those limits? I could show you pain and pleasure the likes of which I can promise you've never experienced before." 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19 Bluff


Sense Motive 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

"My, that is a sad story, but the fact remains that you are a bandit. I'm not hearing anything about the other bandits or details or the Stag Lord's ability, men or defenses so these just sound like excuses. She's yours Kheldor. If there is anything left I can interrogate her further in the morning."

Assist Kheldor's Bluff 1d20 ⇒ 18


Male Human Paladin 2

Sense Motive on Kheldor and Kata: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (3) - 1 = 2

Arkady turns away in disgust, then reluctantly turns back towards Kheldor. "We are not bandits. We are here to bring law to these lands, not add to their misery by abusing captives. The woman has suffered enough already. If she wants what you offer, I will not stop her, but if she calls for help..." He looks at Kata, with some disbelief in his eyes. And disappointment. "Did I rescue you from the black knight for this?"

He walks away toward the cart, to help Devlin load it, and to ask names and deeds of any other surviving bandits (any captives, as well as the ones away from camp.)

Everyone at face value, that seems to be Arkady today.


HP 15/15, AC 17, touch 14, ff 13

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5

Marcus shakes his head at Kheldor's words. The man was no better than those they hunted, just that he was on the right side of the charter. He would need to keep an eye on this wizard; such a chaotic figure in their fledgling kingdom could spell disaster.

Kata's reaction surprised Marcus, and it was good to see that Arkady was similarly surprised. Regardless, there was little that Marcus could do about the situation; he had to hope that Kheldor knew what he was doing.


Sense Motive 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13 Kressle (Plausible)
Sense Motive 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11 Kheldour (Anton buys the act)
Sense Motive 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28 Kata (Knows her support for Kheldour is bluff)

"Regardless, nothing said here leads me to believe that Kressle can be trusted not to be a bandit again first chance she gets. If this land is to be settled ever, the bandits need to be thinned out a great deal." Anton's head begins to hurt as it did the few times he was at court from the various deceptions.

Kressle is victim of her past but she will still do harm to others, can she be held long enough to send her to Mendev? And Kata is feigning support for Kheldour, why?

Anton, with his back to Kressle, shoots a quizzical look at Kata.


Male Human Super Cruel DM 10

Sense Motive:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 2 = 19

Kressel looks at Kheldor, confused. "Are you offering sex or torture? It's hard to tell... Either way I'm... not exactly excited for it." She says with a sideways glance. "That sounds... intense." She looks up after everyone else speaks. "I'll talk... The Stag Lord is the biggest, nastiest bastard in this forest. I don't even think he has a name, maybe not even a face. Even when he was in bed with me he never took that helmet off. He can hit you with an arrow like you're not even moving at a ridiculous range, it's scary." This, at least, is entirely honest. "As for defences, he has the base. Kind of a burnt out fort he found in the hills near the north shore of the lake. There's always at least 15 bandits there, and him. His lieutenants too. Auchs, Akiros, and Dovan from Nisroch." She shudders. "That bastard scares me. Akiros is ok though, when he's calm. In battle... he's like a demon. And I've seen Auchs almost tear a horse in half when it stepped on one of his toys." She looks up with an ugly look. "I would not envy you fighting them."


Male Shadeling Shadowcaster Wizard 5(Shadow Subscool)/Veiled Illusionist 1

Kheldor smiles, and says "It is most definitely intense, and as to whether its sex or torture, that would be based on your perspective."

After her story is told "Well, it sounds like we'll have our work cut out for us. Personally, I don't plan on attacking any fort with such a small group, at least not until we have much better intel on everything. But you have given us much to think on"


Sense Motive on Kressle's information 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8

In response to Arkady, Kata comments, "Oh Arkady, you know these priests of Zon-Kuthon, torture, sex, its all the same to them."

Bluff to hint to Arkady, Marcus, and Anton that Kheldor is bluffing. 1d20 ⇒ 16

GM Ryuko:

Depends on whether you think that is a simple or complex attempt. Simple is DC 15 which she made. Complex is DC 20. They should know enough about Kheldor to take the hint hopefully.

Hoping that he message is clear she agrees, "Anton and Kheldor, I agree with you both. We're going to need help or an angle other than frontal assault. Any ways in there other than the main gate Kressle? And what are you hoping to get out of this exchange?"


Male Human Paladin 2

Sense Motive to pick up on Kata's conveyance of information: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (10) - 1 = 9
Probably not.

Arkady says quietly to Kata, "Then I pity them, not to know the difference between pain and pleasure, between fruitfulness and barrenness."

He stares into the distance for a moment, pondering (and carefully not looking at Kressle's cleavage, though it's a struggle.) "Attacking a fort with a strong garrison is no easy matter," he concludes at last, motioning the others away and speaking low so Kressle will not overhear. "Unless there is a secret way in, or some weakness of wit or will in the defenders. We have not the strength, yet, to either siege it or openly assault, nor the knowledge to employ a stratagem. Are there strong walls, or weak, or none? A ready watch, or carelessness? How many are awake at once? Do they all know each other, or could we disguise ourselves as new recruits? Do they shelter under canvas and wood quick to burn, or behind stone and brick? Yet I do not see what we can offer Kressle in exchange for truth, and I do not trust her words even if she speaks. One who betrays one leader whom she claims to love utterly, in the bed of such a stupid coward as Happs, will certainly make it a game to deceive us if she can. I fear we must scout this fort ourselves, though we might try to capture other bandits to question. Some of them might be ready for a truer leader, or a newer cause, as I think Devlin may be."

Still withholding judgment on Devlin, though he has not led us false so far.


According to RAW, if Kata succeeds in her Bluff to send secret message roll then no Sense Motive check is needed by her targets. If she did not succeed then a Sense Motive check may be useful, that's a little less clear but a reasonable interpretation.

Sense Motive 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28 Kata to catch her meaning even if her roll is unsuccessful.

Sense Motive 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25 Kressle is her info on the Stag Lord true?

In conference with Arkady, "All good points, Sir Arkady, where is that lake anyway; how far? How long will it be before he knows that these miscreants are not delivering his 'cut'? How will he respond? We could blunder about these endless woods for weeks trying to find his fort even with directions. We need more information and local allies or, at least, guides. There is no point in fighting a battle with no hope of victory. As to Kressle's truthfulness, I suspect she lives with lies so often any truth is unknown to her. However I suspect her fear of the Stag Lord is genuine; he may not be a normal creature." Anton breaks off for a second then with a wry smile continues, "If you're willing to consider me a standard for a normal creature. We should continue to question the others and check the answers each gives, then I suggest we carry out our charter and explore the land, perhaps there are allies at hand, and make even our knowledge of these woods with the bandits. Any other ideas, anyone?" Anton invites further discussion.


Male Human Paladin 2

Point to you; my players just never do subtle things, so I'm not used to those rules... though I still think Arkady would have missed the point.

Arkady grasps at Anton's words. "Bandits must have someone to prey on. Perhaps we can find those they steal from, rally them against the Stag Lord. And his followers." He looks back at Kressle. "You others, I think, have more wit to question prisoners than I. Find out what you can, from her and the others. I will consider how to lay an ambush for the returning bandits." He walks away, beckoning Devlin over, and questions the boy about the survivors and the other bandits. In particular he wants to know if any among them might be led away from their former life.


Male Human Super Cruel DM 10

"No other ways that I know. I didn't stay there long, just until the Stag Lord had his fill of me, then he sent me out here." Upon asking her hopes Kressel gets determined. "Let me go west, to Pitax. I've heard King Irovetti will hire whoever signs on with him. Better life than this I should hope." At the barrage of questions from Arkady she thinks for a moment. "The outer walls are crumbling, made of stone, but reinforced at the crumbling places with wood barricade. There's another ring of wood barricade on the inside. There is a watch every night, usually at least 2 men. They sleep in shifts so there's no more than 4 asleep at a time, except the Stag Lord who sleeps lightly until he's in his cups, which he is most nights. At least when he can get the booze for it. The bandits there are known, but he doesn't know all the bandits out here or the others that range for him. And I never said I loved the Stag Lord, only that I was his. I belonged to him as surely as the horses you ride belong to you." She finishes with a crestfallen look. "Please, you've given me one chance to get away, and I want to. But he'll kill me if I stay here, surely as he'll kill you for crossing him."

Sense Motive DC 10:
While the information is true, she has no intention to leave.

1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10

The other bandits give roughly equal stories, the ones who have been to the fort, but each has much less information than Kressel. Upon being asked, Devlin's only likely pick is a ropy man who claims to be from Galt. "Linier was thrown out of his home country for backing the wrong revolution. I think this may be his chance to back the right one. The rest of these men are no better than animals." Silas mimes agreement as you walk through the trees.

Anyone looting the bodies/prisoners or the wagon?


Male Shadeling Shadowcaster Wizard 5(Shadow Subscool)/Veiled Illusionist 1

Kheldor looks over the wagon, seeing if there's anything useful. Upon hearing Kressel's information he says "So he likes to drink, huh? But he doesn't always booze on hand? Hmmm, I think we might be able to help the good Lord out."


Sense Motive 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18
Kata shakes her head, "She has no intention of leaving and while she has provided us with information, she is thoroughly unrepentant. The punishment is clear."

Yes, as long as that wasn't considered a complex bluff and I don't think it was, you should have gotten the hint Arkady. I think Arkady commented on searching the camp upthread. Kheldor now too.


Male Human Paladin 2

Arkady is searching the camp and prisoners and having anything valuable or useful loaded into the cart (or on horseback if necessary). See upthread for details.

Getting the hint (at last), Arkady nods at Kata and Kheldor and leaves Kressel to the others, though he does keep one ear out just in case Kressle calls for help if Kheldor does something unfortunate. He is very unsure how to deal with the bandit woman, and becoming increasingly aware of just how much is involved in being a lord and judging that he had no idea about.

Arkady searches out Linier and (if the man is conscious) makes him the same speech he did to Devlin earlier at Oleg's: "There is no place now for banditry in the Stolen Lands, but those willing to act honorably and help building a new society have a chance to earn a place in my service. I will keep faith with those that keep faith with me, unlike such leaders as Happs and Kressle, who would sell you to save themselves. Devlin thinks you are honest, and on his word I am willing to provisionally take you into my service. We are trying to build something worth serving here." Devlin can also try to help if he wants to. Devlin will try to assist Arkady's Diplomacy roll if he has at least a net +1 in the skill; having him working with the PCs should help convince Linier that the offer is genuine and not a trap, for a +2 circumstance bonus.)

Diplomacy on Linier: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19 plus any bonuses.


Anton questions enough of the camp full of bandits to be sure he has an idea of how far and in what direction the fort is. He helps in the search of the bandits and their camp and packs recovered items away after asking the mages to check for any enchantments.

Sense Motive 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24 Kressle's honesty.

"Yes Kheldor, that stratagem has been used to good effect in the western orc battles. As long as the booze is not spiked with a poison, I have no objection, let it be a lesson to those that cannot fight the battle within to be sensible. Pity that dwarf spirits are in short supply these days. Still I think it will be a while before we can do that, we need more ... everything, information and a more secure base at least."

Anton turns to Kata, "Agreed, she is false, I think she has been abused but that has made her cruel. I see no way she could be made useful enough to even try to lead her to a better path. For the protection of the hard-working folk here and to come, any not redeemable must die here. Pity, I rather see them in Mendev but 'needs drives'".

Sense Motive 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18 Anyone else beside Linier 'redeemable' even by Anton's loose standards?

Generic Sense Motive just to move things along. Check everything and everyone out. Save the savable, prepare to execute anyone the group agrees should go.


Male Human Paladin 2

"No poison", Arkady agrees. "Anyone we can subdue unharmed for interrogation and possible redemption will be a boon, but making harmful food or drink that should be gracious is an abomination to the god of hunt and field. If a man drinks himself senseless, the consequences are his own; if we can make him drunk or sleep, so be it. But no poison."

Arkady is actually getting worried by how much he finds himself agreeing with Anton today.

When the discussion about Kressle gets to him, Arkady reluctantly agrees to her execution. "I do not like slaying women, but the law is clear, and I see no repentance in her; at most she only wishes to go to another land to steal there. Old Deadeye says 'Clean out your own stables; do not leave your chores for others.'" He seems somewhat uneasy about the decision, but sees no alternative.


Male Shadeling Shadowcaster Wizard 5(Shadow Subscool)/Veiled Illusionist 1

"Wait a minute. You guys are full of tactics and strategy, yet you seem willing to disregard what could be an ace in the hole for us. Kressel might be the only one in these woods who not only could lead us to the Stag Lord, but would want to. Anton, you seem particularly adapt at telling when somebody is being false, so I ask this. Let me see if she will aid us, and you can weigh her words for their truthfulness. If she's honest in wanting to rid this land of the Stag Lord, I say let her aid us. However, if she lies about this as well, then as much I would not let such a potential asset go to waste, I would think we would need to execute her."


Male Human Paladin 2

"Could we trust her to aid us, and not lead us into a trap or betray us to the Stag Lord?", Arkady asks. "Or must we keep her in chains until the Stag Lord was gone? How well would she be like to aid us then? I would --" he pauses, visibly, to regain control of himself "-- I would spare her, if I could, if we could trust her to keep to our side, but I, I do not see how it may be done. Do you?"

Sweat trickles down his face.


"She was telling the truth about the keep and Pitax, but lying about her intent to go there. I don't think we can trust her. I could charm her to be sure, but we only get an hour."


Male Human Super Cruel DM 10

Updated the Group Loot. Please inform me in OOC if you're removing anything from Group Loot, or if you're placing anything in it.

"I still have one card..." Kressel says as you go through the bandits and loot them. "The password. I'll give it to you if-" Devlin's look withers her. "Save it Kressel. The password is 'By the Bloody Bones of St. Gilmorg, who wants to know?' You say it when they ask 'Who goes there?' we all know it."

Linier agrees readily to Arkady's plea, the short dark man surrenders his weapons and armor without a fight.

Inside the cart is 3 large crates full of furs and hides, a polished case filled with several bottles of greenish liquid (upon examination this seems to be some kind of herbal liquor), and a small pouch. Within the pouch is a small set of silver earrings, a wooden music box that plays a common Brevic lullaby, and a few hundred gold and silver coins.

Appraise DC 20:
The earrings are worth 150 gp

Appraise DC 18:
The music box is worth 90 gp

Appraise DC 15:
The furs are worth 50 gp per crate.

Appraise DC 10:
The green liquor is worth about 20 gp per bottle


Male Human Paladin 2

Arkady claims the masterwork chain shirt if no one else wants it, returning his studded leather to the group loot pile and rubbing his sore side. It's looking like my banner may be a warrior stripping the armor off a defeated enemy.

"Liquor, eh? Perhaps we could use it as Kheldor has suggested. The taste might... conceal many things."

Devlin gets a trust point. :)

Arkady sits down with Linier and asks him how he got into this and what he knows about the other bandits. Has he ever been in or near the Stag Lord's fort, and what can he say about it, or him?


Not going to take anything, but someone should hold the CMW. I think Marcus might be the best bet.

Appraise 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17

"I'm not sure about the music box and earrings, but those furs are worth about 50 gold per crate. The liquor is worth something too, but I agree that we'd be better off using it to set up an attack on this fort. Shall we bring these things back to Oleg's before we make plans to see this fort or the mites?"


Male Human Paladin 2

"We have rather a cartload of things," Arkady says, looking over the load. "Not the sort of thing to take with us on a scouting mission. We might head back by a slightly different route to map more of the surrounding countryside, maybe including mite-land."

"We should, I think, set up an ambush here to try and catch the remaining bandits as they come in. A day or so, then we head back. Put Marcus and myself with bows up in the lookout posts, have Devlin and Silas and Linier hang around camp looking like they belong, and the rest of us hidden nearby, and we may be able to catch some of the others before they can carry news of us to the Stag Lord."

Arkady asks Devlin and Linier if they are OK with that plan (again, they don't have to fight, just act normally -- maybe they could also serve as lookouts) and how often other bandits or messengers from the Stag Lord arrived here.

Are there any other horses here, or did Happs have the whole herd?


"How many bandits are left? When are they due back? May as well take them, though they still need to have a chance to battle. Don't have to give them a good chance to win. As to the other bandits including Kressel, how long can we hold them? We are few in number and some of them look competent enough to cause trouble and they will. I'm as sure as Kata that Kressle is lying about leaving here, for whatever reason this is where she makes her stand. Any mistake we make with these lost souls, Oleg, Svetlana, and other innocents will pay for in blood. But if you think it's worth it, I'll stand by you." Anton says this to everyone.

To Marcus Anton calls, "What are your thoughts on this Marcus? What do we do with the less than obviously repentant."

Anton looks over the bound bandits without condemnation or pity, like a shepherd looks at sheep about to be slaughtered.


Male Shadeling Shadowcaster Wizard 5(Shadow Subscool)/Veiled Illusionist 1

Kheldor sighs as the debating continues "You guys take too long, let me try something" With that the shadowmage walks back over to Kressel.

"Look, Kressel, we know your lying about leaving here. My friends wish to just kill you outright, but I'm not so quick to drop the blade. They have no idea what its like to live in these wild, untamed lands, but I do. Spent over a year in the River Kingdoms, making my way north, so I know how hard it is to survive out here, and how easy it is to turn to less savory means to stay alive. However, I can't save you from them all if you aren't willing or able to help us. So it's up to you, are you able to help us, beyond the info you've already provided, or will you meet death this day?" 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 3 = 13 Diplomacy

Ry:
Damnit! That roll wasn't nearly as good as I was hopin for! Any chance I can get a bonus due to good RP? Lol


Male Human Super Cruel DM 10

Linier's information on the Stag Lord is pretty consistent with the picture so far. It seemed the man liked his drink and plenty of it, never removed his helmet, and was a terror to be around. Linier had only gone to the fort once and wishes he hadn't. He has no additional useful information about the fort. "No other messengers come from him. We gotta go to him when we need orders. Usually Kressel goes, but I doubt he'll miss her until at least a week or two from now." The supposedly reformed bandits also mention that the other bandits out scouting could be back tonight or in 3-4 days, depending on what they'd been sent out to do. There are two more horses nearby, though they look to be the runts of the litter. It seems Happs had the majority of the herd.

"Sorry mage, but your friends don't trust you too much more than they trust me." Kressel says with an ugly sneer. "I don't trust you could get me out of this trouble if you tried."

Woulda been a tough roll to convince her. Sorry man, sometimes the dice are a fickle mistress.

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