Before long, the travelling group are ready to leave and the only ones left inside the outpost are Rook, Rikka, Oleg, Svetlana and the three captive bandits.

”You will leave these dead bandits in their shirts and trousers!” Svetlana suddenly shouts across to Oleg when he returns to working on the bodies he intends to hand from the wall.  ”I am not going to have naked, indecent men hanging from my walls.  Whatever would people think …” her voice trails away as she turns to the task of tidying up the battle area.  ”And you mind that you shut those gates properly when you are done.”

Oleg just nods and gets on with his work, knowing that her release has to come from somewhere.  His had been in that crossbow bolt and followed through to these bodies.  This was Svetlana’s.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:33, Sun 17 Apr 2016.

Rikka takes a shortbow, and a quiver of arrows, up to the top of one of one of the corner towers, "I'll take first watch." she calls.

For a while she stands up tall, looking around into the distance, trying to work out how much she can see from there, before taking a walk along the wall walkway to the next tower, where she repeats the process.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:30, Wed 20 Apr 2016.

"Thank you, Rikka!" Rook calls up to her as she climbs the tower. It would be a little bit before she would need to be relieved. In all honesty, with the majority of the group gone, having a second person in the opposite tower would have been safer. He'd expected more than just himself and Rikka to stay behind, but. Well, not everyone could be born in the Rostlands.

Presently he had more pressing matters to deal with, like the three potential murderers sitting in a row at the tables. With a quick glance to check that Oleg and Svetlana were okay, and they probably weren't given that this was one of many encounters they'd had with the bandits, he retrieved a bucket and dipper. He walked in front of each of them, offering a drink of water. While he did that he looked them over for grievous, life-threatening injuries. Anything else could wait, and probably wouldn't matter in the long run. But it did give him time to think, mostly about what to say and how just to say it. Simple was best. After offering to the third, he put the bucket aside and found something to sit on in front of the bandits.

"My name is Rook and you've all been captured. Whatever y'all think might happen in the future doesn't matter. What matters is now. Now is your time to convince me that if you have the chance to start over, you'll take it. Otherwise I reckon you'll end up like your friends on the wall."

The three prisoners break off from whispering to each other, and take a sip of the water when it is offered to them.  However, they have been well behaved, sitting quietly while the others left and haven’t tried anything since the numbers have been a lot more even.

The two humans looks a bit sheepish at Rook’s question, and it is the half-orc who answers on their behalf.  ”Happs? He never was the brightest spoon in the pot.  But he was Kressle’s favourite.  Did as he was told,” he grins and winks ”if you know what I mean.  I'm not sure what you want us to say,” he shrugs as he addresses the main question ”we can promise to be good boys, if you like?” he asks Rook.

The others nod enthusiastically as the half-orc talks about being good, but it is clear that none of the three are particularly gifted speakers, although the half-orc is clearly bright enough to realise that more is needed.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:33, Tue 19 Apr 2016.

"Yeah, you can promise it, but do you wanna be? Was all this out of boredom or what? I mean, shit." He stood up and began pacing. "You just take from these folks because you can? Instead of working for it and earning it?" Rook stops pacing and points at the orc. "How would you make money if you weren't stealing it?"

"Holding horses for coppers?" the half orc suggests, "That is about all I could get in the the town, and  I ain't cut out to do all that digging up lark.  Anyways, all I got out in the country was chopping wood for a bowl of 'tater soup and then told to move along." he says with a a bit of a shrug.  Life clearly isn't easy for a half orc.

The other two sit quietly, either  unwilling, or unable, to answer for them selves.

"Ain't cut out for digging lark? So instead you'd rather steal from people trying to earn a honest living." Rook sucked his teeth with disappointment and folds his arms across his chest. He looks at the two humans who've remained silent thus far. "What about you two? They cut your tongues out when you joined up? Got nothing to say to save your necks?"

One of the men holds up his hands to show well established scars around his wrists,   ”No one wants you after you after tha chain gang”, he says simply.  The other one, the younger one,  is no more than sixteen or seventeen years old; when he speaks he hangs his head and his voice barely raises above a whisper.  "Sorry sir."

Rikka continues moving around the outpost walls, until she is at the last of the four towers, and peers back along the road to Brevoy.  "Mr de le Maistre should be here soon" she calls down to no one in particular.

"Well." He sighs heavily and slaps his hands down on his knees. "There you have it. The final sands are falling through the hourglass. I'll quit lecturing and just let you stew. Hopefully De Le Maistre will listen to me when we gets here. If you're lucky, you'll just be sent back to the city for trial. Maybe you could ask to stay, make amends, try to build a life, a family. Outta my hands, though." Rook stands with a grunt. "In yours."

"Here they come."  Rikka calls, and moves down to open the gate ready to greet Henry and his new entourage.

Henry leads the party through the gates of the outpost, between the bodies of the two newly killed bandits, hanging like silent guardians on each side of the portal.

He frowns as he dismounts and passes the reins of his horse to Tib. Looking around the outpost, he sees Svetlana and Oleg going about the business of tidying up still, while Rikka and Rook appear to be guarding three prisoners who have their hands tied.

”So what has been going on here?” he demands of his employees, ”And where are the others?”

Rook moves to help Rikka open the gate and usher the others into the walls. It was very quickly beginning to feel a bit crowded. "Over-abundance of horses, mostly." Rook answers to Henry, approaching him as dismounted.

"We made contact with the bandits, a small group I'd reckon. Two dead, three captured and one escaped. Rikka and I stayed behind to guard while the others went after the runner. Sounded like they were going to try and take on a gang." Rook said, eyebrows rising in slight disbelief as he shrugged. "The sorcerer with the sword, Moto I think? He left when they did and struck out on his own. Rikka knows more than I do. I've spent most of my time with the livestock. And." He paused and looked over his shoulders at the captives. "Them."

"There was more than one runner." Rikka corrects Rook, "Only one from inside the outpost escaped but there were more bandits outside.  The others headed off, south along the trail, while Rook and I have been keeping an eye on the place, while Svetlana and Oleg tidied up."  She says indicating the outposts owners who are are making their way across to the group.

Andalon looks at the two speakers and seems slightly puzzled by their story.

"This one wasn't headed south from here but east toward us, and fell foul of wolves not bandits."

He indicated the body of a man in a bloodied yellow robe slung across the back of a pony that accompanied Henry's new arrivals.

"What did you say his name was? Motto, was it?"

”So…” Henry muses, as Oleg and Svetlana join the group.  ”You made contact with bandits?  They tried to raid this place again?” he asks, and nods when Oleg confirms that.  ”And you took them on.” he guesses as he tries to round the story out.  ”The two at the gate are the dead ones, and these..” he indicated the three sitting at the table ”are the captured ones.  Did they have anything to say for themselves?” he asks Rook responding to the cleric’s assertion that he had spent time with them.  "And they were taken red handed in the act of banditry?” he says emphasizing the fact that having been caught in the act no trial was really required.  ”And the others went chasing after the rest of them?” he  half questions with a note of annoyance in his voice.

Then almost apologetically, he turns to Oleg ”I am Henry de le Maistre, here with a charter to map the lands around your outpost, with a secondary charge to deal with banditry as I find it and these are the rest of my people.” he says indicating the group.  ”Keston and his men have been sent to act as guards here.” he adds as almost as an afterthought, introducing the soldiers from Fort Serenko.  ”We need to stay here for a few days, as I am sure that the other explained and, if you are content, Rikka will show the others the accommodations while you and I discuss compensation and payment.”

When the trader nods his agreement he turns to the group that have arrived with him.  ”This will be our base, at least for the next few days, so see to the horses and get yourselves settled and Bart, please find somewhere suitable for Moto’s body.  Rikka show the others the accommodations.  But then prepare this area, and we will ‘try’ these captives.  Oh, and make sure we have a good strong length of rope to hand …” he says almost casually as he walks away towards the main building with Oleg and Svetlana.

Rikka points out the stables and leads the way towards the cramped bunk house, which has a limited number of bunks and is part filled with the travelling gear of the group who came before.

---

OOC.  Zorah Andalon, Aris'ta, Valoria and Cyrus - -feel free to post and talk with Rook and Rikka.

Zorah cheerfully walks up to Rook and introduces herself.  "Hi!  I'm Zorah.  This is Puck."  She points to her horse  "Murdock is hiding behind Puck."  She looks around the grey horse at a small red fox.  The girl seems strangely upbeat considering the recent events here and along their travels so far.  "I'm sure glad you're here.  We can give that poor man a proper burial now."  She says still smiling.

"Yes, Moto. Probably  going to--actually." Rook stopped himself. "I can't say I know what he was going to do. I barely knew him. I appreciate you bringing him back, though." He folds his arms across his chest, but them moves to hook his thumbs in his belt as Henry inquires about the prisoners. "It won't so much a raid as, uh, illegal taxin' under the threat of violence, I'd guess. I think, regardless of the outcome of the trial, these men might be more useful to the expedition alive rather than dead. One of 'em's barely a man, bet he's still got peach fuzz. Other's been on the chain before. And the half-breed, well, he just got a shit lot, didn't he? I mean, yeah, they'll pay for what they done, but, give 'em a chance to make the right choices this time around."

The young man took a deep breath and shifted his feet to look at the three. "As I see it, we got three graves to dig and three grave diggers right there." He cleared his throat and took a half-step towards the rest of the group before nodding his head at Henry. "Glad y'all made it here alright."

As Henry walks away with the owners, Rook approaches the new members of the charter. "Hello Zorah." He smiled briefly at her, looking over to the introduced animals. "Fellas. I'm Rook." His arms cross his chest as he inspects the wrapped body of Moto. The pony it was riding on only confirmed his identity. "It's a shame, but he should've had more sense than that. I think..." He trailed off, looking over to Zorah. "An apple tree on his grave would be nice. Maybe on all of them. We could start a nice little orchard, make cider and pies and applejack. And treats for all these horses." He put his hands on his hips and looked at the slowly crowding outpost. "We're gonna need to put together a shelter or something out back for everyone. You guys too. I hope there are enough beds."

Aris'ta had kept to herself for most of the rest of the journey. She acknowledged a few words as they went, but overall, it was a silent one on her end. As they drew closer, she once more drew up her cloak, hiding her features in the shade and darkness it provided. Her hands she has placed once more in her gloves and her bow is once more at her back. Listening to the others conversation, she keeps and eye here or there, but makes no move to join in. It is clear that her comfort level has dropped dramatically with the introduction to new acquaintances.

The conversation also fails to be of an unpleasant sort and while she did not know any of the fallen, she is saddened by the loss and how easily others can move on from it. The world was a strange place and not for the first time was she questioning her desire to return to it.

"Andolan de Lebeda, cleric of Abadar," Andolan introduced himself to Rook and Rikka. "I am very pleased to meet you. These others with us are my cousin Valoria der lin Lebeda, Zorah you have met, Tiberezi, Brother Barthomew and Aris'ta. Don't be alarmed by Aris'ta's heritage; I can assure you she has been good company on the way here and she and Tib are both excellent archers!" He smiles at Aris'ta before moving on to another topic.

"Three graves, yes, it would be a good idea to have the prisoners dig the graves straight away although I suspect this Moto fellow will be the only one occupying his today. It looks like the other two bodies still have a sentence to serve before they are allowed their final rest. Hmm, I wonder whether that might be called a suspended sentence?" He points at the two corpses hanging from the wall of the trading post.

He turned toward Moto's body but before helping to unload the corpse from the pony he asked Rook and Rikka for a bit more information.

"Finding him out there alone was quite a puzzle for us and one we have not been able to solve. Are you able to shed any more light on why he left?"

A quick hand goes to the bridge of her nose as Andalon speaks, trying to alleviate the pressure there as she feels a sudden headache begin to emerge. She still, wisely at this moment, says nothing.

Valoria nodded to Rook and Rikka as she was introduced by her cousin. “A pleasure to make your acquaintance.” Looking at the trading post with a bit of a frown, she tried to make due with these very humble accommodations. This must be what it is like to have to live as a peasant, those poor people. She looked at the body of this Moto and for a moment, thought about how deadly this adventure really was. She closed her eyes and tried to put the thought out of her mind.

Valoria eyes then fall on Aris'ta who looked like she was in great pain. “Are you ok? You don't look well. Not that I am an expert on how drow normally look.”
This message was last edited by the player at 05:34, Sat 30 Apr 2016.

Cyrus was disgusted by the hanging corpses. It was one thing to die in battle, it was another altogether to be strung up after you were dead. It broke all of the codes he lived by. He asked where to stow his gear, went to the room and stripped his armor. He looked around for a shovel and asked where he should start digging. It was clear to him words would work no longer and only action, honorable action would begin to change things here.

"Quite fine. I assure you. " she replies shortly, removing her hand and wrapping it about her waist. "As there is no need for introductions to be made, perhaps we could get to the task at hand and bury your traveling companion before the rats come. " she sniffs distastefully, turning her gaze towards the door, seeing beyond though there is little to see.

Rikka responds to Andalon's question about Moto.  "He had a falling out with our hosts, and decided that he really didn't want to be involved here any more.  He stayed to help in the fight with the bandits, then he took his horse and headed back to Brevoy."

After a few moments she continues "It appears that this whole area, is more dangerous than it appears ...."

Brother Bartholmew has already taken charge of the bodies, tasking Keston's men to go and cut down the bodies from the gate and carry them into one of the corner towers.

When he spots Cyrus and Andalon moving to help, the priest of Pharasma tries to involve them as a well. "If you could unload this man's body for me, that would be helpful. I want him laid in the same tower as the bandits and I will see to their bodies and interment later."

Bart indicates the tower by the gate and behind the stables.  It isn't all that much of a place - tree trunk walls,  20ft square and 20ft high, and the door is only propped in place -  but it wills serve as a temporary mortuary.

At Rikka’s suggestion, and under Tib’s guidance it doesn’t take too long to get the horses settled in the area between the stable and the wall that has become a temporary animal area – and some feed out from Oleg’s stable to reward them for their hard work over the last few days.  Personal belongings are moved into the bunk house, although it is clear that there will not be enough beds for everyone and there is hardly enough space for all of their gear.  And the bodies are laid out, with some sort of dignity, in the base of one of the towers.

And then Henry returns with Oleg and Svetlana – the three walk across to the prisoners, and Henry gestures for everyone to close about.

Standing in front of the prisoners henry draws himself up to his full height and speaks sternly.  ”You were caught in the act of banditry, stealing from these good people here ..” he waves a hand towards Oleg and Svetlana, ”with threats of violence.  There is no question of that.  The punishment for banditry is death.  However, Mr Sanderson here, has spoken in your favour and even Mrs Leverson,””he indicates Svetlana, ”Has expressed a desire that I should treat you with clemency.  So I will give you a choice.  I can have you hanged from one of the local trees.  Or you can repent of you banditry and swear to live an honest life in the future.  However, there are a few conditions that go with that.  First, I will brand you on the left hand – then if any of my men come across you in acts of banditry again, they will know to kill you outright without any clemency.  Second, you will assist Brother Bartholomew with the burials that he must carry out. Third, you will work off your debt to Mr and Mrs Leveson here.  We will agree a series of tasks that will provide appropriate compensation for them.

If you agree to those conditions, I will let you live.  And just as importantly, once the debt to Mr and Mrs Leverson is paid back, then I will endeavour to find you all suitable work, for you will have proved yourselves dependable and honest.” he finishes, then awaits a response from the captives.

The young man sobs and nods his head, the older man who bears the scars of the chain gang shrugs and nods, and it is only the half orc who has anything to say.

”Sure, why Not?  It not like we have any real choice anyway.” there is a note of defiance in his voice, but he doesn’t show any signs of not being compliant.

Andalon had helped Brother Bart lay out Moto's corpse earlier and attended the meeting with everyone else where Henry's verdict was announced.

When it seems appropriate a bit later he will suggest to Henry that they should also require the prisoners to state their names and where they came from (town, city, tribe or whatever is appropriate) then keep a written record of it and their crimes and Henry's verdict. Henry might allocate that task to Brother Bart as he is likely to remain closer to Henry but if Henry asks Andalon he will agree to take on that task.

Cyrus appreciated the brand of justice that had just been doled out. These men may not reform but they deserved an opportunity to do so within the confines of what was essentially a new law in place. He was also glad the first task would be to aid in burying the bodies that had been so gruesomely treated. It would take time to truly reform these men but he hoped they were up for it. He would be watchful for brands like the one Henry held high on bandits from now on.

Now that they were at the base, Cyrus wondered what Henry had in mind for the people he's gathered. One group was already off chasing bandits. Would he send more to aid them? Would he send people out to explore the wilderness? Aris'ta and Zorah had both shown great understanding of the natural world, understanding Cyrus didn't share. Cyrus knew horses and swords. He was a fair shot with a bow and he was eager. He was looking forward to seeing how he could truly contribute.

Zorah's eyes flash with excitement at the mention of planting apple trees.  "After the violence and death of these recent days it would be fantastic to honor life with something as grand as the planting of some fruit trees.  I could really go for a nice ripe apple right about..."  Zorah drifts off in thought for a moment before snapping back to the conversation.  "Oh!  Sorry.  As long as we bury the dead six feet or so it should provide enough room for the plants to grow without risk of the soil breaking beneath them in the future.  Would you like me to find some plants?"

Before receiving an answer Zorah turns to the fox, Murdock.  She holds up two fingers directly in front of him.  "Murdock, fetch.  Fruit."  The fox sprints out of the area with a sense of determination.  It was a bit unsettling how nonchalant Zorah was about death, but as a druid she saw the world as a repeating circle.  Humanoids were, after all, just another animal.

Rook looked at Andalon his eyebrows knitted together after the peculiar introductions made of the new group. He doesn't say much else as they quickly turned their focus to Moto's remains. Still looking perplexed, he watches the newcomers as they divested themselves of their burdens from the roads. But he can't fight the smile that Zorah's excitement brings. "It'll take some time for them to fruit. We'll need to put everything a bit far back, to make room for expansion and to avoid cluttering the eye-line. Six feet will be a-plenty, by the time the roots get that deep there won't be anything to break up." He realized now that the dream of apple trees may have been slightly unrealistic. In truth, the animal finding a local fruit meant that the chances of the plant's survival were much greater. And he was impressed with the ease with which she communicated with the fox and how quick it was to obey.

The distraction now gone, Rook's arms move again to his hips as he closes in with the others to surround the prisoners for their trial. It was an occurrence that made his stomach turn a little cold, though the stern look on his face didn't give that away. This was a totally new experience and he felt anxiety at the outcome of it.

Then, the weight in both his stomach and shoulders lessened as he listened to Henry speak to the prisoners. The worries he had about the trial were slowly beginning to dissipate. Whatever it was that he, and Svetlana, had said wasn't ignored. The young man struggled to push down the growing jubilation in his chest and was helped when the half-orc spoke. He frowned and bent forward to be closer to the bandit so that he could speak to him in a lowered voice. "Ignore the need to save your pride. He's treating you like a person, with dignity. Appreciate that, recognize the opportunity you have. Others won't get this."

Valoria did not really know what to do with herself. Everyone seemed to be busy with the dead...and apple trees...At times like this she would normally sit in her room and read, but she had no real room of her own. All she had was a bunk house that needed to be shared with many other people. Sitting down at the outside table, Valoria pulled out her old tome and began reading.

Henry nods and instructs Tib to start heating the  branding iron, but turns to Rook  ”Perhaps, Mr Sanderson, you will prepare some healing?  While these three must bear the brand, they don’t need to suffer any more pain that is necessary for the application.”

While the iron heats, he issues orders  ”I want the rest of you to ride after the others.  You won’t catch them today, they have too much of a head start, however Mr Leveson tells me that the trail from here divides  twelve or thirteen miles south of here, I would like you to  go down there and establish a camp for the night.  Wait there, have a look around and be prepared to assist if needs be.”

Then once the brand is heated, he has Keston apply it to the hands of each of the prisoners.  The half Orc puts himself forward first, followed by the older man with the manacle scars The half Orc bears the pain silently, while the older man lets out a single shout of pain.  However, the younger bandit has to be held in place, by Keston’s men, while the brand is applied, and he screams in agony.  Oleg stands with his arm around Svetlana’s shoulders, comforting her as she turns her head away sharply at the young mans scream.

Murdock returns after 20 minutes or so, bearing a small sprig of unripe berries.

Zorah bends down and scratches the fox under the chin.  "Good job, Murdock.  Morus berries.  They'll grow on the bush into early winter."  Zorah takes the sprig and stashes it away for later.  She turns her head as the prisoners are branded, remembering this is a fresh start for the men gives her some comfort to bear through their screams.  Afterwards Zorah prepares to travel.

Andalon watches the branding dispassionately and although he takes no pleasure from it he does seem satisfied that justice is being served.

The instruction to head out straight away afterwards comes as a surprise but he doesn't object. He hadn't had a chance to unpack his gear or settle into the bunkhouse yet so it doesn't take long to get himself and his horse ready to travel again.

In reply to DM (msg # 36):

The added mercy Henry showed the bandits brought a small smile to Cyrus' face. He'd always liked Henry but this journey had only deepened the respect he held for the man. When Henry asked them to mount up and follow after the other group, Cyrus was relieved that his skills might be once again put to use.

Rook nodded to Henry at his request for healing. There was no need for him to prepare it, it was a constant assurance for as long as he was conscious. He again felt gladness that though Henry was doing justice, he was not without compassion for the suffering of others. The young man watches each of the prisoners receive their mark without flinching, staring particularly hard at the young man who struggled and screamed. His healing wasn't immediate because he first took the ladle they had all shared water from and shook water at them all. As it did, a wave radiated from Rook with a the warmth of a summer breeze that carried the memory of honeysuckle on it.

"Consider this your rebirth. That mark is all that remains of the person that came before you and you're paying for their sins." He couldn't stop himself from rolling his eyes as he said it out loud, but something within him forced him to say the words. Returning the tool to the bucket, he approached both the half-orc and the older man, again lowering his voice. "I'd consider it a personal favor if you both'd take the boy and make him strong. He's gonna need it and no one here's as suited to it as you two." He doesn't wait for an answer from either of them, figuring their actions would tell him everything he'd need to know in the future. But he does give their shoulders a reassuring pat before turning away and preparing a fresh horse for himself and the others.

Soon enough he's leading his horse, cloak around his shoulders and bow on his back. He walks the animal through the fort, stopping beside Henry. "I don't reckon it'll take us more than four or so hours if we're not held up. Is there anything I need to relay to Borric or the others?"

Screams of agony, force Valoria to look up from her book, but just for a moment. Although she seemed dispassionate, this was all beginning to take a huge toll on her mind. Attacks of wild animals, dead bodies and now the screams of prisoners. Closing her tome, Valoria made ready to leave.

It doesn't take the group long to be ready for the road again.  Indeed, the bags hadn't yet been unpacked.  So almost as soon as the punishments are carried out and details of the prisoners and their punishment recorded by Brother Bart, the group are read y to leave again.

Rook, Zorah, Andalon, Aris'ta, Valoria & Cyrus to 3c - On the road again

------- New Visit ------

Back at Oleg’s there have been a few changes.   Clearly the Ex-Bandits and Keston’s men have been busy.

The bodies have been removed from the walls and buried at a suitable distance behind the Outpost.   Moto has been buried alongside them, although his grave has a much larger fieldstone marker.  On top of that, there is a roughly fenced Corral, outside the gates, that has a few horses in it already.

Inside there have been more changes.   All four of the corner towers have been converted into temporary accommodation, originally open at the back, they have been closed and a tarpaulin door fitted – so part log cabin / part tent.  Internally each tower room has a useable area of about 15x15 but the ceiling is over 20ft high.  Each one has 6 thin matresses, which will stop you sleeping directly on the ground.

Henry and his immediate entourage have moved into one,  (£3), Keston and his men have been assigned to another (£22) while the other two have been assigned to the members of the team.  Adoven, Bai, Rook, Aris’ta, Pipre and Zorah are assigned to the tower at C22 while  Andalon, Borric, Valoria, Cyrus, Percy and Vik are assigned to tower C3.  The ex-bandits have been put up in the stables.

Henry nods approvingly as the whole of his team come into sight, but scowls when he realises that there are many  more  than he expected – and the chatter from the three ex-bandits  already there, soon make him realise quite who they are.   As the group arrive Tib is already clearing the space at 11, Brother Bart  cover the table with a cloth, Rikka gets you to stack saddles and personal belongings in the barn, the ex bandits, take the horses out to the coral.  Soon there is a suitable space for Henry to hold court.

With Keston and his men standing guard, and the newcomers gathered at AI, Henry waits for everyone to return, and then starts.

Rather than addressing the newcomers directly, Henry turns to the original group.  As he looks around his eyes settle briefly on Bai, Pipre, Vik, Percy, Adoven and Borric.

"I would like a quick explanation of what happened and who these people are?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:36, Sat 28 May 2016.

Pipre appreciates the renovations and sneaks a mischievous glance to Oleg if the man is around, curious what he thinks about all of this. She gets her things stowed and stacked and seperated as needed before the court is called.

"Well, 'bandits' could succinctly describe both things but it would be an imperfect report despite its brevity. We followed the bandits who left here to their camp. There wasn't even a fight-- their immediate boss, Kressle, threw them at us and then fled immediately. They wisely threw their weapons at our feet and accepted an offer to join us and become honester folk. I should mention that they surrendered even though they had us outnumbered and a tactical advantage; in my eyes a good indication of their sincerity. We met the others that you sent on our way back; we've had no issues during the travel and they have proven to be helpful and eager to join civilization."

Bai was curious to who the newcomers were back at the camp, likely more of the people that Henry had brought with him. She listened and nodded along as Pipre gave her brief explanation though the nodding stopped towards the end. "I won't pretend to know who had tactical advantage, but considering how quickly their companions and been taken care off, I don't know that they would have thought as much. I assume whatever punishment you doled out to the men that were captured here would probably be more than ample for these that we've brought to you for judgement, though I can't presume to know what you're do. Bai paused and then opened her mouth to say something else, as if an idea had just struck her, but she paused. "Mr de la Maistre, if it's possible, later when everyone has settled down for the night, I'd like a private audience with you. I've a few things I'd like to bring up with you about a plans going forward."

Cyrus was happy to be returning from the trail. Oleg's walls, without the bodies, were a welcome sight. Progress was being made, this was becoming a true base of operations for Henry.

After stacking his own saddle and personal belongings, Cyrus helped the others with theirs to make the work go faster. He takes note of the new sleeping arrangements and then waits to hear from Henry.

While the others answer Henry's questions, Cyrus considers whether these bandits will also be branded and pledge their commitment to reform. He also considers how that reform will begin. He's been thinking of the ways his sword instructor taught him character, through demanding physical exertion, through repeated training exercises to build muscle memory and improved reflexes, through repeated defeat in sparring, although always with a glimmer of improvement to keep him returning for more. Perhaps, he thought to himself, some of these bandits would benefit from similar training.

He would have to discuss this notion with Henry and the others to see if any others had similar thoughts or inclinations. The way Valoria described her tutelage made him think beyond the martial training. Maybe teaching each of these men and women a trade or skill would help them steer clear of the life they'd previously led.

But first, he would wait and see what was decided...

Vik dismounted her horse, tying it off for the moment and motioning for Lolli to walk with her.

"Keep your head low and your eyes to the ground, you're about to be in the presence of a lord. If he speaks to you, it's 'my lord'. Keep your answers civil, you're representing me now."

She stood to the side, hands at her belt, tired from the ride back in her armour.

"I didn't see much of it. The bandits surrendered as Pipre said, and I'd say we'll have an easier time of it going forward if people know our word is bond, that surrendering to us is something that leads to service, not to the executioner."

Able to see from a distance the lack of bodies on the walls, Rook's mood was lifted after the long ride back. Even with the rest at night, all this time on the back of a horse was beginning to wear on him. From town to the outpost then to the camp and back. The young man was having a hard time remembering a day that didn't involve him riding. And he could feel it, especially in his legs and back. He rode his horse into the corral and dismounted with the large group of people, finding that his legs were threatening to give out. But he forced himself to stand long enough to help those with the horses, greeting the three reformers warmly.

His walk to and from their assigned spaces was a ginger one that found him doing several deep squats outside of the tower. Afterwards, with his muscles a little more loose, he met with the others at the center of the outpost to listen to the report and eventual trial. He stands near the rear of the crowd of employees with both hands pushing on the small of his back.

The return to Oleg is a silent and tiring one and she finds herself more than ready to relieve both herself and the horse of the journeys burden. Her keen eyes have noted the changes to the changes that have already taken place, in particular a row of freshly made markers. She narrows her eyes and turns away as they return within. Though she dismounts with ease, she is careful to stay still as the blood rushes back to areas long numb, patting the lovely animal before her, whispering smooth words in exotic, strange sounding syllables as she helps to alleviate the horse of possession and saddle before handing her off to one of the ex-bandits with a final run along the side.

Now within, she takes a more gracious glance about her, pulling at the strings of her cloak and removing it from her shoulders. She runs a hand only briefly through her unruly hair before learning where she is meant to settle for the coming evening and leaves the others to explain as she heads in the direction Rook has recently vacated. Once within the tower, she makes quick work of settling her personals in a corner, taking care to remove the string of her bow. Briefly, she pulls at the gloves on her hand and allows the skin to breath while she flexes her fingers, stretching them and turning them to examine the old mark on her left palm. Shaking her head she curls her fingers about it which does little to hide the matching one to the other side. With a short sound, she moves from the room as she pulls the gloves back into place making her way back to the gathering as they ready themselves for court. She's not missed much, it seems.

She scans the room, hesitating on a familiar form, before she slowly slinks up beside the young man who, as of yet, has fared better in regards to her sudden shifting of personality. Folding her arms before her, she pushes herself to stand straight, looking on with a disdainful smirk.

"We approached their camp, and Bai called them out, at one point telling them that if they laid down their arms and came peacefully they would be given a chance to prove their worth.  Pipre joined the call, telling them that this was a chance to elevate themselves from the muck and do something.

Their Leader, a woman called Kressle, called them to one side and tried to drive them into attack.  All that really happened was a couple of arrows flew wide.  Then as Kressle fled they all dropped their weapons,  sword and bows, as they had been instructed.  One fled overnight, but although the others didn't raise the alarm, they didn't go with him.  However, they did contribute around camp and help freely when the wagon got stuck."

Borric responds taking his turn centre stage. He waits for a moment before dropping to one knee, head bowed, almost as if he were making a formal request of one of his superiors in the church of Iomedae.

"In the eyes of Iomedae, these are not evil people, and I ask for clemency on their behalf."  he waits a moment or two before rising, nodding towards Henry and withdrawing.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:19, Sat 28 May 2016.

Oleg and Svetlana stand to one side, on the outskirts of the group chatting quietly to Keston the guard sergeant.  Not quite part of the group, but not outside of it either.

Keston's eyes flick across the assembly, seemingly taking note of people and their weapons and attitudes.  A guardsman through and through.  Both Oleg and Svetlana  are quiet, perhaps not used to the throngs of people around the place, although they are paying attention to the proceedings.  However, it is clear that the Outpost is in a better general condition than it was  when you arrived.  Fire wood is stacked, the old towers have been rejuvenated and there is a new corral -  work that would have cost Oleg a good few golds if he had paid for it.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:19, Tue 07 June 2016.

Valoria was happy to be back at the trading post. The base was very busy, as the trading post was packed to the limit. Putting her horse away and stacking her own saddle, she stood silently with Cyrus and Andalon as court was about to take place. She give a small bow to Henry and waited as he judged the captured bandits. After trail they would need their own audience with Henry to discuss the Kobolds.

Henry considers the testaments presented to  him, and doesn’t even bother to ask the ‘prisoners’ for their view.  It seems that the only thing that interests him are the reports from his own people.  For a moment he sits there with his chin on his fist, looking over the group, and his exhaustion is clear in his grey and lined face. Eventually he addresses those who were brought in.

”You are lucky …  unlike your colleagues here,” he indicated Big Job, David and Lex who all bear the brand ”You were  not caught red handed in an act of banditry, not did you attack any of my men but chose to come with them peaceably – and you were told the reward for that would be a second chance.  Four witnesses have spoken -   Pipre thinks you are sincere,  Bai tells me that the branding suffered by these three is more than enough, Viktoria argues that we should show the world that our word is our bond and Borric asks for Clemency.

I am inclined to agree with both Bai and Vik.  The branding handed out to repentant bandits caught red handed is too much and it is important that we are known as people of our word -  or else we are no better than this Kressle or Stag Lord that I have heard about.  Pipre, I accept you judgement of their sincerity and Borric your petition is granted.”

He ponders for a moment or two, before turning back to the newcomers in front of him.

”As I said you are luckier than you counterparts. I suspect that it is just fortunate timing on your behalf, but then who am I to question the judgement of Desna, the Lady of Luck.  Your details will be recorded by my clerk, Brother Bartholomew and after that you will be free to go, if you should so with.  However, if you leave, you must go well away from this land, into exile.  Or you may stay here with us and try and forge a new future in these lands.  The choice is yours, but as the only career in these lands, other than those we bring, is banditry, there will be no clemency if you are brought before me again.”

The tiredness becomes audible in his voice, once judgement has been passed.  But he continues speaking.  ”While Brother Bart will take your details this evening, you do not have to make your decision until the morning.  You may stay in the stables tonight with Big Job and the lads so you can ask their experiences before you decide. And with that I declare this court closed for today.”

He slumps slightly as his official functions are concluded and comments more quietly ”Any other court business will have to wait for another time.”  Then he turns to Bai, and perhaps it is because it is tired but you can almost see the thoughts going through his mind  She is good looking, good breeding, maybe .. then he shakes his head hard, almost as if he has seen something different about her, some sort of aura.  ”I am sorry Bai, it will have to be another time.  I couldn’t give you my full attention …”  and there is a slight pause ”… tonight. “

Tib and Rikka move quickly to line up the newcomers and Bart starts to collect and record their details, telling them to report back to him in the morning with their decision.  While they are not stripped of any more of their goods their weapons are not returned to them immediately.

His records already list Big Job, David and Lex – the three branded Ex Bandits. Now he adds

• Jack (Blackjack),  Human Male. (one of the Archers and Bai’s riding companion)
• Rusty,  Human Male. (One of the archers and the wagon Driver)
• Zachary, Human Male. (Who chatted to Pipre about gambling halls)
• Anderson, Human Male.  (Who has been keeping his head down quietly)
• Lolli, Half-Elf Female (Who chatted to Vik and who cooked for the group)
• Prudence, Human Female.  (who has been keeping a very low profile)

Once they have had their details recorded they are released into the care of the other ex-bandits.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:23, Sat 28 May 2016.

Andalon was as saddle sore as all the other inexperienced horse riders and was glad to be able to stand back and watch the proceedings quietly. Valoria's comment about the encounter with the kobolds was a good one and he acknowledged it with a bow of his head to her at the time but it looked like that would have to wait until Henry was rested. He was glad enough of that as he was looking forward to a good sleep tonight as well and the temporary accommodation of the corner tower would be most welcome tonight.

In reply to DM (msg # 55):

Lex grimaced at the mention of the brand on his left hand. He looked over at the young priest of Erastil who had taken away the pain after the branding was completed with a slight smile and a nod. He then got lost in thought. Thoughts of the pain and the fear and the shame at his loud outburst. He leaned over to two of the new arrivals and said quietly, "Lucky indeed you are. Henry and Oleg have been more than fair with us and the work has been better than ambushing the occasional wagon train or beating up a tradesman."

As the crowd dispersed, Lex made his way back to the corral to finish the rails he'd been assigned. Lex had shown some skill with woodwork, and he felt as though Henry and Oleg might be testing him to see the limits of that skill.


===> corral
This message was last edited by the player at 23:22, Sat 28 May 2016.

Rook gives Aris'ta a glance as she appears out of the edge of his vision. He hadn't heard her approach, but he also wasn't paying the most attention to his surroundings. Part of his attention was focusing on the throbbing in his lower back, the other on the others giving their accounts and pleading on behalf of the prisoners. His eyebrows raised when Henry said they hadn't been caught red-handed. Some of them certainly were with the group they'd captured, but as he hadn't chased them, or even seen them, he couldn't say who. It surprised him to hear that they wouldn't be carrying the brand, but he wasn't in any position to argue. And it looked as though Henry wouldn't hear of it, based on his current appearance.

The more the young man looked at their employer, the greater his concern grew. Something didn't seem right. He may have just been suffering from hard work, but all this shouldn't have taken this toll on him. As he releases the new reformers to give Brother Bart to start their records, Rook moves through the others, returning Lex's slight smile with his own weary half-grin and wink. He comes over to the side of Henry, kneeling beside him and putting a hand on his shoulder. "Henry, are you ill? Is there something I can do for you, a prayer or maybe some tea to help you sleep?"

At Rooks question, Henry struggles to his feet, "I'll be fine." he says softly, although some of the fatigue seems to have drained out of him at henry's touch.

"I'll be fine." he repeats as he makes his way back to the tower allocated to him and his immediate staff.

Aris'ta didn't wait for everyone to disperse, as soon as it seemed appropriate for her to do so, she turned on her heel and left on more pressing matters she had held off on until she would be free to do so. Hands folded over her chest, even as she walked. Stopping only briefly to gather the few things she needed, she made her way towards a string of graves she had first seen upon her arrival.

_{-To the graves--}

Cyrus made a rather quick exit to the tower that was now his bunk house. He dropped all of his belongings except his sword and shield and then made his way to the area just outside the gates. Still in his chain mail, he ran through his sword forms working in shield thrusts and mock deflections. He focused on the perfection of his form and the precise paths of his blade and board.

After completing his routine a few times he felt like he had done enough for this day. Retiring once again to the tower, he shed his chain mail in favor of his traveling garb, a simple tunic and pants with a leather vest. His sword remained at his side but he left behind the studded shield. His sword forms had worked up a hunger so he made his way to the Fire to see what food he could find.

===> To the fire

The young cleric stands along with Henry, but he doesn't move as the man heads to his tower to retire for the evening. He hoped that a long night of rest would help him. Folding his arms over his chest, he watched until they were gone, then looked to the sky. The sun would be setting before too long, but he figured he still had a few hours of near-light to use. He found Oleg and asked for what he needed and then proceeded to where the dead were buried.

> The Graves

Bai wasn't sure what Henry had thought she meant, but something about his look made her uncomfortable for a moment. Perhaps I can turn that to my advantage. Tut tut, work to do though and no need to dawdle. Shaking her head the woman went looking for Jack, she figured perhaps she could turn the man's sentence into a job offer. She found him milling near the other bandits, or former bandits, she assumed. "Jack, a word?" She lead him away from the group, no sense in having their conversation overheard.  With her business concluded, Bai fished out her purse and counted out a measure of silver coins and closed the man's hand around them. With that she smiled and headed off towards the graves to see if she could find Keston.

>graves

"Yes, Ma'am "

After the sentencing at the court Pipre seems quietly relieved, glad that Henry didn't do anything drastic and unexpected. She spent some time congratulating the new recruits on their fresh lease before moving the the tower that she had put her things in. She bundled some supplies into a white slip and spun it around before tying it across her back. As she moved through the compound, heading out towards the front gates, she says, "I'm going to take a bath; if anyone wants to know the spot I'll wait for you." She was talking to any of those gathered, not just the members of the charter or the new recruits. Pipre ended with a softer, "Some of you definitely need it."

--> Bathing Pool (when I wake up, I'm wiped out)

Jack looked at the coin he'd been handed, this wasn't what he'd been expecting to be doing a week ago, but it sure beat having to steal for his meals. His mom would probably be proud of him, sure he wasn't working a skilled trade like a smith, but it was something he could at least admit to. Well better get on with it, no need to drag this out. He swallowed and hoped that his sentence might help Svetlana overlook his past.

He found the woman and her husband returning to their home, likely from the burial. Gripping his hat in his hands and looking down at the ground, "Umm.. Ma'am, Lady Kao asked that I find her a copy of any maps or books you might have on the surrounding area. Is there anything I might find with you?"

Zorah spend careful time placing Puck in the corral.  She left Wilson perched on a fence post and Murdock to wander with Puck.  Although she knew the animals could care for themselves Zorah felt uneasy leaving them alone and spend too much time waiting to be sure they would be alright.  By the time the druid had finished watching her animal friends Henry had already held court, so she turned right back and headed to the corral.

Svetlana looks bemused as Jack asks his question. "Nothing of the nature here, except the journals and accounts  that Oleg keeps, anc they are just for our own use."

Worried that he'd have to deal with some punitive measures for failing to do as he was told Jack headed out of the outpost to find Bai, as he'd seen her walking with that dark elf. He found her and was relieved when she didn't seem too upset, though he couldn't seem to read the woman. Ever since she'd ferreted her way into his mind and somehow managed to get him to nearly walk to his death he'd been afraid of her, her being nice since then had only cemented that. He nodded along with her instructions and headed back into the camp, looking for the clerk.

He found Brother Bartholomew working on some paperwork and Jack quickly reverted to the submissive petitioner that he knew tended to help when dealing with clerks. "Brother Bartholomew, if you've a moment, Lady Kao was asking that I see if you have any maps or journals of the surrounding area that she could study." The man looked down at the clerk and decided to try his luck. "If you've any need of a hand, my father was a clerk when I was a boy and I used to help him with his work from time to time, I might be able to do the same here if you'd like."

"Err  .... No. " Brother Bartholemew replies, "That is what we are here for. There  aren't  any maps of the region. All any of us really know is that once it was occupied  by the Talsdans who colonised around Restov.  That was a long time ago, but it has been seen as part of our lands since then. "

---

New Day

---

When you all finally get to bed the night passes quietly and undisturbed -  all that exercise and fresh air over the last few days has taken its toll.   

In the morning, Henry re-appears looking fully alert and healthy again – it was probably just the privations of the journey and dealing with the situation he found at Oleg’s that tired him out so much last night.  Svetlana has prepared flat breads and a thin onion broth for breakfast, and there is plenty to go around.  Over breakfast Henry speaks to you of his plans.

”First I listened to your request back in Restov, and I took the opportunity of my enforced stay there to have myself appointed a Marshal pro tem of Restov, and managed to get some insignia made authorising you as my deputies.  If you see Brother Bart later today he will swear you in, record your new status, and issue you with your deputy marshal’s badge.   However, our charter mandates us to explore and map the areas, suppressing banditry is a secondary function.

As to your assignments.  I would like Borric and Adoven to take the new wagon to Restov.  I am in need of supplies and we need to report back on the bandit situation.   Tib, you will be responsible for making sure that Svetlana’s store room stays fully provisioned with fresh meats, take Big Job with you to help.   Rikka, you will help our new ‘friends’ settle in and make sure that they have something to keep them busy.  Bai, Rook, Aris’ta, Pipre and Zorah I would like you to take the Gnarlemarche.  Start at the closest point and work your way down.  Andalon, Valoria, Cyrus, Percy and Vik  - I would like you to take the area east of here.  Apparently there is a hermit  about a dozen miles east – start there and work your way down, but stay this side of the river for now.  However, today is for preparation and relaxation, so there is no need to set off until tomorrow.  However, lets see what was actually in that wagon you brought in.”

The wagon from the bandit camp is  emptied of it belongings and they are laid out on the ground for all to see.  However, each of the bandits who pledged their repentance are allowed to reclaim their short swords, bows and personal belongings.  However, there is still a lot of stuff left over.  There are:

• Four Large Tents
• 7x Bed Rolls
• 2x Short Bow, 1x Short Sword
• An assortment of minor weapons:
   - - -  (A brass knife, a single metal gauntlet, a light mace, a sickle, a short spear, a boar spear, 2x slings)
• 5x Bundles of 20 short bow arrows.
• A light wooden shield
• Cooking Equipment
• 3x Crates of furs and hides.
• The Polished wooden box with 8 bottles of (what turns out to be) a highly alcoholic herbal wine that is worth 3 or 4 gp a bottle.
• A wooden music box, which opens to show a fairy dancing and plays a tinkle-y tune.
• A pair of silver and pearl earrings.
• And a small Onyx statue that was wrapped up in one of the bedrolls.

This message was last edited by the GM at 10:16, Wed 08 June 2016.

After looking through the goods himself Henry motions Oleg forward.

”I will take the Wagon and Horse as my share of the goods as we will need regular supplies and that will make the task easier. The tents need to be used as temporary housing, but the rest is your bonus.  However, I want all bonuses like that to be shared between all of you deputy marshals.  That way I can fairly allocate you to tasks that are important, but that will not get an immediate benefit for you as an individual.  Of course, you can claim individual items for your personal use, however, anything of significant value would count against your share.”

”Rikka, one of your first tasks will be to find a decent spot, just outside the walls, set those tents up.  You can use some of the ‘new recruits’ to help you.” he says looking around at the new comers.

Oleg steps forward as Henry is speaking and inspects the items laid out, looking carefully through the bedding and other items.  ”Damn!  My wife’s wedding ring isn’t here.” and he glowers at all of the ex-bandits  for a moment or two.  ”And the furs and leathers are mine.  They were taken from here last time those scum bags came to collect ‘taxes’.”

”However, I will make you an offer of 600gp, in trade goods, for the statue, earrings and music box.  If I don’t have it in stock, I will get it from Restov for you.  And if you get my wife’s ring back for me, I’ll give you marshals 25% discount on trade goods for a couple of months!”

Looking embarrassed, Rusty the Wagon driver speaks up.  "The mites stole a bag of small stuff from us.  It might have been in there ..."

OOC:  If you take Oleg's deal that will be 50gp each (half shares for Borric, Adoven, Tib and Rikka)

Andalon steps forward to inspect the goods as well but he holds up his golden key holy symbol towards the goods and speaks the words of a prayer to Abadar. Then he stands as if in meditation over the goods.  When he finishes he will repeat the process with a different prayer and meditate again.

Afterwards he approaches Henry and asks to speak to him privately.

"I'm fine." Henry responds to Andalon, but he agrees to take a walk with the cleric later.

Deputy Marshal's, that would be their new title. He liked the sound of that. It seemed that the sleeping arrangements foretold their future traveling arrangements as well. He'd hoped to have someone with him who knew the forest, like Rook, Zorah or Ari, but perhaps Percy or Vik had some familiarity with forest regions. He knew very little of Percy, perhaps he'd spent a few years in the forest.

He would be glad to have Vik as they traveled near the river, her history with boats would bode well. And he was more than happy to keep Valoria and Andalon at his side. Both had proven to be valuable traveling companions and helped pass the time. Perhaps he should ask for some tutelage in the ways of the woods...

"Andalon, what do you think of this offer from Oleg? It seems fair to me, but I'm not versed in the art of the sale." Cyrus jokes hoping to make it clear that he will accept whatever his much wiser counterparts deem to be fair compensation for the wagon.

"Borric, keep an eye out for a forge. We have a man trained in the ways of the smithy. I will cover the cost to get his forge up and running and work out an arrangement in goods and services with David."

Turning to Valoria, he says, "Valoria, perhaps you and I should spend some time with Zorah learning what we can about the forest today? Andalon, Vik, Percy, would you care to join us? I know very little of the woods and would welcome any information that may be of use. Zorah has shown herself to be quite capable of instructing, look what she did with young Lex."

Lex heard Oleg claim the furs and hides and knew whom he needed to speak with immediately. He'd been the one to nab them during the last raid and had worked on them when he had time, preparing the leather for his use. He'd keep that to himself for now though.

Not wasting anytime, he asked Oleg, "Would any of those hides be ready for use? Deputy Marshal Zorah is looking for a saddle and I was hoping to make it for her. For that matter, Oleg, I was wondering if you and I could work out an arrangement, you provide the raw materials and the storefront and I will shape the leather into boots, clothing, belts, armor, saddles, whatever is in demand. We can split the profits, after you cover the cost of the hides and furs, of course. What do you say?" Lex hoped that using Zorah's title would emphasize the need for these items, but he hoped she'd be ok with him using her name.

"Bonus to what exactly?" Pipre asks, the stem of grass in her mouth bobbing as she spoke. She had woken early to concoct her concoctions and prepare her explosives and put everything back away again. She was present at breakfast, having some of the bread but skipping the broth. She had listened to Henry and was now looking over the gathered things. As Oleg was moving things around she put her foot on top of the crate of wines. She flashes her teeth in a smile, "Alcohol is very useful in alchemic endeavors. You can take it out of my share, I suppose, but I was intending to make something to benefit us all.." She moves back to the table.

She puts down a cloth bundle and unwraps it. "Glisterwort. Crimson rhododendrons. Sunrise Azalea." She points to each of the piles of herbs and flowers as she calls out their names, making sure she gets the attention of the others and the new recruits. "Look for these as you go- perhaps we could even assign some of those with a knack for it to look for them full time. The more I get, the better off we'll be. Like, physically. The more physically well we will be. I can make healing elixirs with them." She winks at Oleg, "With a bit of alcohol as the aqueous solvent."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:48, Wed 08 June 2016.

Valoria bowed to Henry before speaking. “My lord, we have also encounter a band of kobolds. I was able to trade with them for information and radishes that Zorah now has. They know about the bandits in the area and the trading post here. They mentioned a swamp and a boat to the west and orcs in a ring, by an old bridge to the east. There are also mites in an old tree, also to the east...as they so claim. An entire tribe of them lives somewhere in the forest. I would suggest...if I may, forming a treaty with them. A tribe of allied natives could be useful, my lord.”

She then responded to the rest of the matters. “I will follow my cousin on what a good price is for said goods. Also Cyrus, I think it would be a grand idea to have Zorah teach us a few things about the wilds. That is, if you would be willing to do so Zorah?”

News of Moto's death hits Percy hard, the young gentlman looking almost guilty at the revelation, and lapsing into an uncharacteristic silence for the remainder of the journey, eyes straying towards the graves as he reluctantly accompanies the others for Henry's judgment, though he rouses at the prospect that the bandits they have brought back might be branded and seems much relieved when the requests for clemency are granted.

Similarly, though he joins those at the grave for Moto's memorial, it seems he pays little attention to the words spoken by Brother Bartholemew, his gaze fixed upon the fieldstone marker in silent vigil, only broken by puzzlement of Aris'ta's ritual with the shooting of the arrow, of which he understands little, though approves of the symbolic gesture.  Percy does not intrude on her conversation with Rook and Bai, but remains aware enough of the trio to slowly trudge after them when finally they return to the outpost.

Morning sees the young gentlemen up and about astonishingly early, given his usual proclivity to linger abed ... and the rising of the sun on this new day seems to have done much to lift his mood, much as it does for Henry himself.  Indeed, Percy appears most eager to be about the next task set by their leader and nods towards those newly met (two of whom are cousins if he recalls half-heard conversations of the yesterday) and a quick smile for Vik whose kind treatment of Lolli did not pass unnoticed.

Cyrus's suggestion is a good one, the moreso that it might allow the new group of Deputy Marshals to get to know each other as well as teach them something.  "Oh. A fine idea," he smiles at the warrior, nodding enthusiastically as he looks for Zorah's response.  "I've some experience of commercial matters," he offers with a glance at Andalon, hoping not to be stepping on the priest's toes, "and to my mind Oleg's offer is more than fair," he assures them all.

At the mention of the Kobolds, Cyrus perked up to hear what Henry had to say, he'd almost forgotten their potential allies and the way Valoria had handled that situation so diplomatically. They could ease the initial exploration efforts and help the two groups navigate around hazards or take the Orcs and the bandits by surprise if needed.

He was also encouraged by both Valoria's assent to learning what they could from Zorah and Percy agreeing as well. Cyrus knew he was not the quickest study, but he would try and learn anything he could to help with this expedition.

While he waited to hear Zorah and Henry's response, he thought he would try and get to know Percy better, he'd missed him the night before and he'd been silent on the return back to Oleg's. He seemed to be upset at the loss of the one they'd called Moto. Cyrus felt oddly responsible, if only he'd gotten to him sooner, or been quicker in batting away the wolves...

"Percy, how well did you know Moto? Just so you know, he fought off the wolves valiantly but they proved to be too much for him, almost too much for us. Henry and I were both bit by the beasts. I'm just sorry we didn't get to him sooner..."

"Oh. Not well, I'm afraid," Percy does indeed seem regretful.  "We were paired up on watches and got to talking.  I'm afraid I may have treated him rather badly when ... well ..." the young gentleman shrugs, sadly.

"I didn't get the chance to apologize."

Cyrus hadn't expected to hit a nerve, and took a long moment to respond.

"I'm sorry, I didn't realize..." Not sure what else to say at this point, he said to the gentleman "How did you come into Henry's service?"

Another fitful night of sleep had left Bai waking up early, well before dawn. She slowly made her way out of the tower doing her best not to disturb anyone in her passing. She found her way up onto one of the palisade walls and watched the sunrise. A few people had been up, moving about, but the grounds were quiet and something about that set Bai at peace. As the outpost slowly began to wake and come to life the woman sketched what she saw, filling her journal with notes. She frowned a bit as she kept finding herself sketching bears and elk whenever her mind wandered. When the others seemed to congregate she made her way down and joined everyone. She waited towards the back as the group went over the goods, never having been one with a good head for money. Finally when there was a short break she approached Henry again. She hoped that perhaps he'd have time for her today, but if not perhaps that was for the best too.

"A nature walk?!  That's a great idea!"  Zorah's boundless energy causes her to bounce slightly for the rest of the conversation while she tries to stay in place.  She finishes an apple as she continues to talk and starts on a second.  It's a wonder she still has stick arms and legs with the non-stopping eating, at least it's mostly fruit.

Zorah had forgotten of the radishes until reminded by Valoria.  "If we're lucky maybe we can find a few of your ingredients and plant them here Pipre.  It will have to start off small, but a small berry bush, some radishes, and a few azalea plants now could be a small garden by next season, and a large plot by the one after."

Relieved that Zorah's energy took over the situation and distracted Percy and himself from the  conversation he had so awkwardly started, he said "Zorah, when Henry is finished please lead the way!" The group waited to hear any parting words from Henry before making their way to the woods.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:47, Wed 08 June 2016.

Henry responds to Pipre’s question about the bonus, with a soft smile. ”The retainer you received when we started out, your transportation and expenses for food and accommodation. As for the value of the herbal wine, well that is for you to agree with your colleagues.”

He nods as Valoria speaks of the information she had gleaned from the Kobolds.  ”That confirms what our new friends have been saying about the mites, and also tells us that they live in an old tree.” he  says recognising her contribution, ”However, I would be wary about long term arrangements with them.  They have a reputation for trickery and cowardice.” he counsels, but doesn’t dismiss the idea of an alliance out of hand.  ”And I am not sure about that Orcs in a ring, either.  That is something that you and your colleagues will need to be alert for when you map that area.

Once the questions have been answered, he turns to Bai.  <aqua>”Perhaps you would care to join me in a short walk?  I was intending to go across and look at the work the new people have been doing on the corral.” he says, offering her his arm, as if he were preparing to accompany her into a state dinner.

Oleg builds upon his earlier offer by listing his stock.

”I have a couple of suits of leather armor, a heavy wooden shield, two hand axes, five javelins, a longbow, two short bows, five dozen arrows, a scythe, two spears, two potions of cure light wounds, a potion of shield of faith +2, two vials of antitoxin, six torches, two weeks of trail rations and a couple of short swords in stock if any of you are interested.  As well as various tanned hides, furs and skins.”

OOC: I updated my previous post so it didn't look like we walked away from Henry while he was still talking to us. Good luck with your private walk Bai :)

As Henry and Bai walked away toward the corral, Cyrus turned toward the group that were headed out for a nature walk and said, "Shall we?" Standing beside Valoria, he leaned down and whispered something in her ear.

Zorah lead the way and Cyrus fell in line.

"Zorah, is there anything we should pay special attention to on our walk?"

Bai gives a polite smile and nods, accepting Henry's arm. "That sounds like a lovely idea, Marshal." With that she follows him at his side as he walks towards the corral.

>>>> The Corral

The large half-orc grins toothily as he watches the pair leave, then leans down and says something quietly in Pipre's ear.

Having yet to find something to do with himself Jack mills around the outpost, watching people go about their work. He made his way over towards Big Job and David, "So what are you two getting up to?"

Pipre's half eyebrow arches slightly and she looks sideways and up the good foot and a half height difference. "Yeah, alright. You stink a bit after all--" She says with a teasing grin, "but hopefully that just means you've been working hard, right? Let me go put this away." She picks up the sheaf of ingredients and goes to replace them with a familiar bundle. She leaves her coat behind baring delicate, narrow, and pale shoulders. She cocks her head briefly to one side in the universal 'let's go'.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:32, Thu 09 June 2016.

Andalon picked up the brass knife and handed it to Henry before anyone had left the gathering.

"This knife is enchanted. It only has a faint aura, the lowest level of enchantment for a magical weapon but it is still the most valuable item here. It could be a useful weapon if we encounter any sort of monster that is practically invulnerable to non-magical weapons. It should be entrusted to someone for future use if required. Either you or one of those who fought the bandits before, would seem appropriate."

Andalon left the decision about the knife to others to decide. He nodded agreement with Percy's opinion about Oleg's offer being fair and he was more than happy to join Zorah, Cyrus and friends on their nature walk after that.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:21, Thu 09 June 2016.

Big Job grins, and with a shrug and a wink towards Jack, struts off after Pipre.

Henry nods as Andalon reveals the magical knife, and passes it across to Brother Bartholemew,  "You fellows need to decide how to handle it, after all, it is your bonus" he adds with a wink towards Pipre.

OOC:  I am happy for you to discuss that OOC as you decide on how to split stuff.  That way immediate conversations (and similar activities) don't get disrupted.

Valoria smiled to Cyrus as he whispered in her ear. She gently wrapped her arm around his and followed Zorah. Muninn was resting in her backpack. As Percy and Andalon also began to walk with them, Valoria spoke jovially. “Good of you to come along cousin. You as well,  Percy is it?”

"Oh."  Cyrus's question seems to surprise less than it might have.

"My family's business hasn't been doing so well of late, and I had an urge to travel," that was one way of putting it, "so Henry's offer presented me with an opportunity to not only get away from it all, but also to make some coin.  It's been rather exciting, thus far, I must say, though the bandits aren't such evil cutthroats as I'd been lead to believe - more desperate than bad."

"Yourself ?"  Percy responds politely, though his response may be lost in Zorah's enthusiasm and he is happy enough to just follow after the Half-Elf and her menagerie, listening carefully to whatever advice she proffers.

Cyrus rotates his forearm making it easier for Valoria's arm to sit supported as they walk together following Zorah, Percy and Andalon.

Hearing Percy's question and not wanting to be rude he answers quickly, "I'm sorry to hear of your family's misfortune. The Ondari estates have diminished as well. You might have heard of Donovan, my great, great grandfather. He fought beside Baron Aldori. Needless to say his descendants weren't quite as skilled in business or with a blade. I hope to change that on at least one front." As he speaks the final words, Cyrus' free hand pats the pommel of his sword and comes to rest on it. It seems a casual, graceful posture, but it is one poised for action, should it be required.

Cyrus then turns his attention to Zorah as she leads them into the surrounding woods.

Once everything has calmed down slightly and people started to disperse, Oleg turns to Lex.  I have a couple of Elk hides that are workable, and I will swap those for the wolf skins you were flashing about earlier." The shrewd trader says looking after his own interests in this arrangement.  "And once I have seen the quality of your work, I'll consider your partnership offer.  Good leather is worth too much, out here, to risk on a craftsman I don't know."

"Right you are sir. Thank you, I will accept your offer. If you wouldn't mind letting me borrow the hammer and leather now and again. I'll show you the saddle once it is through and you can decide if my skill is worthy of your leathers."

Lex takes the elk hides and the tools he needs to the stable and sets about measuring another riding saddle that one of the other deputy marshal's had been using.


----> To the Stable

David greets Jack as he approaches.  "I made some agreements with one of the nobles to start working on a space to create shields and armor.  I'll probably spend the day trying to make good on that.  Although, if you're up for a game of cards tonight maybe we can persuade someone to give up a bottle of that wine?  Or a few of their coins."  David winks at Jack.

Zorah leads some of the group to the edge of the trees.  She points out flowers and herbs of note and explains some uses.  "That white flower with six petals can be used to ease pain."  She kneels down and looks at a small red fox that had been walking with the group.  "Murdock, fetch."  Zorah gives the fox a command holding up two fingers clearly for the fox to see.  Murdock trots off into the overgrowth.

Like Bai, the young cleric was up before the sun rose, but that was the usual with him. He noticed her absence, but did nothing else in that regard. He slipped out of the tower with his boots off to remain as quiet as he could. Once outside he put them on and traveled to the pool that he'd heard about from Pipre, lighting the way in the darkness with his holy symbol. He spends the time before the sun rises, with the sky lightening, washing his clothes and his body. He prepares himself for his prayer, using that time to dry off before returning to the trading post. Stopping by the graveyard to see it in the light, he makes a face and notices that the lines he marked off aren't as straight as he'd like.

Mentally adding straightening to his things to do, he rubs at his damp hair to make it dry while checking on breakfast. He does his best to help Svetlana without getting in her way. Seeing Henry appear in a more healthy appearance makes Rook all the happier to see. He actually doesn't eat with the others, and strangely enough never has, but does drink some of his special tea while the plans are discussed. Being deputized is entirely unexpected. Thinking about it creates some uncertainty in his mind, but he expects it's mostly for his protection. The other terms in relation to it go entirely over his head. Hearing his name before Aris'ta's causes him to perk up. The assignment seemed especially suited to those with him and he was thankful for that.

Being that they were likely to encounter the kobolds in the forest again, and knowing the only person who could speak to them would be going elsewhere, Rook mentally noted to be sure to ask Valoria for help before they all set out. As further information was offered, he continued adding to that list until it was so long that he had to actually procure a scrap of parchment and a writing utensil. Sitting at the table, he sipped his tea and wrote in rough script for the first time since he'd left his schooling. He glances at the goods recently returned to Oleg and scribbles more. The effort needed to write looked to be taxing the young man, but he struggled silently.

Finally standing, he rubs his head and approaches Oleg to do some trade in earnest. He forgoes any need for gold, instead asking for some supplies instead. Though it wasn't offered, he requests from Oleg the things needed to create a map of the areas they would be exploring. And remembering that he would be training with Aris'ta today, he also picks out a few of the available weapons, a short sword, the single shortspear from the bandit camp as well as one of the short bows, and one of the handaxes that Oleg spoke of that wasn't part of the returned equipment.

With the list tucked away and his arms full of tools of death, he looks around for the dark skinned half-elf that had been uncharacteristically absent during the morning's business. With everyone else dispersing for other activities, Rook takes the opportunity to go find their missing compatriot.

> Watch Tower 1

<<<From Watch Tower<<<

Following Rook from the tower, she attempts to focus her eyes on the surroundings around her. Having been up late, the light from the day bothers her more than usual. It is steadily getting better, eventually looking more like the workings of a late night, rather than the harsh glare from her otherwise brilliant gaze. The area is quiet, if quiet was the word for it. People went about their daily business and for a moment Aris'ta felt almost guilty for the unexpected indulgence of allowing herself to gather sleep. Without thinking, she stops in her tracks, lifts her hands upwards. Interlacing her fingers, and pressing up to the tips of her toes, she allows herself to stretch some of the sleep out of her body. Her back arches backwards a bit as she extends her torso, closing her eyes and lifting her face. For a moment, the world is forgotten and she is at peace. Slowly, she lets her hands and arm extend outwards, pressing them back behind her to stretch her back, then releases them with a satisfied sigh.

She casually lifts on elbow above her head leaning to the side, then the other before she opens her eyes, realizing and remembering that she is not alone. "Better," she murmurs, attempting to move the moment further before discomfort returns in their easy return. The urge to stretch further is there, but it can wait for the time being, for now there is an uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach she attributes to want of food and raising the back of her gloved hand to her mouth she covers a yawn.

At Rook's suggestion, she seeks out Svetlana in hopes of finding some sort of rations or food she can nimble on, as for all she seems hungry the idea of food is also faintly nauseating to her. Once she has what she needs, she moves to find someplace to sit. "Alright, I've food, now talk." She means it kindly, but she has yet to master that and it comes off somewhat harshly, something she crinkles her nose at, but is unable to fix it out of awkwardness. Instead, she nibbles on her food, turning her face to the side as though disinterested.

< Watch Tower 1

Rook led Aris'ta out of the tower, looking over his shoulder at her occasionally as they approached the center of the camp. He kept one hand on the sword at his hip, feeling as though it would drag his trousers down at any moment. When she stops, he follows suit, assuming she'd forgotten something back in the tower that she needed. But instead she stretches, something he figured she'd done while his back was turned so he couldn't see. Taking the opportunity, he mimicked her movements, though he was considerably less graceful stretching his own muscles. Spreading his arms, he fights the unbalanced feeling and pushes his arms further backwards.

By the time her eyes have opened, he's stopped moving and has gone back to holding the new weight on his left side. "Is that something that's needed before you practice too?" He asks after she's found a place to sit and he has seated himself across from her. Rook sets them both up with water to drink and clears his throat as he tries to recall all that Henry had said before he cluttered up his mind with that list. "Well, I think the first thing is that Henry's come back with a title or something from Restov which is going to give us a title, after we're sworn in by Brother Bart. I believe we'll become Deputy Marshals and we'll get a badge too." He takes another swig of water. "I've never seen a badge before. Do you know what it is? Is it like a shield or a weapon? I heard sometimes town guards get specially made shields with a design painted on them. Anyway, Henry is sending us from our tower to go through the forest south west of the outpost tomorrow. I've been thinking a lot about that since then."

Pipre walks into the trading post's main gate. Without her jacket she really did look more fragile, the protruding lines of her delicate collarbone casting shadows on white skin, the length and slenderness of her neck pronounced, and no extra bulk to her narrow shoulders and slim arms. She moved to the tower she had slept in and returned quickly, claiming one of the large tables for the gear she began to set up.

Small alcohol burners, flat glass dishes, a rubber sheath with a long hose, and several other pieces of equipment. It was all piecemeal but very well kept, even somewhat ingenious how it was made to be portable but still have most of the function that a room full of alchemy equipment normally would. The alcohol she used for the burners was not for drinking, by the way, it was the stuff that would make you go blind- pure grade made from fermented wood. She lit a rolled cigarette with the dancing alcohol flame and then got to work processing ingredients, the roll of burning paper and tobacco smoldering with a rich, natural fragrance as it dangled from her plump, glossy red lips.

Her primary project seemed to be turning the reagents she had gotten into a healing elixir, but she didn't waste time waiting for its ingredients to separate or calcinate or distill. She had a few side recipes going as well, more mundane things and supplies she needed for a long mission. Reagents for catalyst vials, fluids for her extracts, and even a new iteration of the skin cream she used to keep the sun's harshness from her white skin. She looked focused, serene, and really quite happy.

15:42, Today: Pipre rolled 21 using 1d20+15.  Craft Alchemy + Crafter's Fortune.
I saw that brewing potions requires spellcraft or craft alchemy but it doesn't seem there are any actual rolls involved? So I rolled anyways.

"No," she said after she realized what he was asking, "It helps though, certainly." She falls silent again as he begins speaking, chewing occasionally when she could stomach a bite. She ran a gloved finger over her bottom lip, turning her face towards him and looked at him seriously. "I'm not very familiar with customs, an emblem seems likely, something to identify yourself to others in the area."

Peering at him more seriously, she lifts some water and takes a sip before narrowing her eyes. He seems distracted, preoccupied. "Thinking about what, exactly? The task De La Maistre has set for us, or the role you play in what is unfurling now?" she sets the water down and sits herself up, running her eyes over him as if sizing him up. "If you're worried-- I mean, surely--" she falls short of answering, and stops herself unsure of how best to proceed. "It sounds simple enough. This action he's sending us out on. We've some time today to help you... prepare is not the word I want here, but it works as well, prepare yourself some. I'll be there, I already promised to look out for you as well."

She shifts, uncomfortably. "What goal do you have, from all this? You've mentioned a little, of course. But think of your goal, your purpose, if it's nerves, that goal will give you something calming to steady yourself. At least, I would hope it does. "

"Ah, okay. I see it now." He paused. "Seems a little silly, though. I mean, if I don't know what it's supposed to mean and I'm carryin' it, how's a stranger supposed to know? And how does it carry any weight if it don't have any meaning? Seems like it's more to cover our asses than anything else."

Rook meets her eyes and narrows his own in reply before opening them back up, breaking into a smile. "No, that's kind of worrying is over with now. I prayed on it and I know what has to be done. I've got to keep whoever I'm with safe from anything that might come up." He glances over Aris'ta's shoulder at Pipre doing her strange cooking. "That was just being faced with a notion I hadn't considered before. Which is why I'm thinkin' so hard about tomorrow. I want to try and make sure we're going to have everything we need. I don't reckon we'll be able to ride horses in the woods, so we might end up walking the whole time. That's gonna limit how quick we move and what we can take. If we meet up with them kobolds again, I want to make sure we can tell 'em we don't want to fight. So I gotta get help with Valoria to make a note before we leave."

Shifting on his seat, he took another swig of water before continuing. "And we need to be mapping. I can write, barely, but I never drew a map like what we need to bring back. I'm hoping that Bai will know a little bit more about it. And then I need to figure, well, how far do we go? And when do we turn around and come back? Is it a set amount of time or just when our supplies run out? I mean, if we can find fresh water, between me and Zorah, I bet we could last a while out there. And I still want to get my hands on that Stag Lord." Rook finishes with a tensing of his jaw.

He finished the water off and put the cup down on the table, rolling it around on the bottom edge. "After we get everything mapped out and start people settling, I'm hoping to get a good piece of land somewhere near a river myself. Start a farm, then a family. Build up around me, find neighbors. Make a community from nothing." He releases the mug and puts his elbows on the table to rest his chin in his hands. "You got any goals?"

Valoria walked in to the trading post and begins looking for Brother Bartholemew in get sworn in. In truth, her mind was on Cyrus, Andalon and the mission ahead. Still she wanted to get any business done and behind her. She paused for a moment and looked at the display of Pipre's Craft on one of the tables. She then drew notice of Rook and Aris’ta. “Greetings. Have you seen Brother Bartholemew around here? If not, would you mind if I sat here and waited?”

"That is very true. No one would know until they had seen it, but I do not think we are likely to point it out and demand others understand it. Going forward; however, it would make things easier for some. " she lifts the water and takes a sip, she no longer bothers to even nibble or play with the food before her. A question shows on her face for a moment at his mention of prayer and peaceful reconciliation of terms, but whatever it is she doesn't ask it, instead taking care to listen. Her eyes easily catch his gaze slip over her shoulder and though she tilts her head to peer, she never overtly looks in the opposite direction. She also maintains her positioning, her face one of deep contemplation, consternation, or possibly both.

"You can't prepare for everything, no matter how hard you try Master Rook. " she says with a half-hearted grin. From any other angle the smile would look bitter and insincere, but from what he can see, it merely looks sad and forced. "I think it best to simply take the journey one day at a time. If you've concerns, speak with De La Maistre about them and gain clarification. It is the surest way to resolve those particular lackings of insight. " As the conversation continues, she turns her view further away, the contemplation returns, sometimes to the point of closing her eyes. Releasing a breath that almost trembles in it's escape she considers his remarks and questions and finds she is unsure how to answer.

Lifting the hand closest to him, she closes herself off by crossing it and rubbing at her neck and just behind the ear in the nervous gesture. Her lips have thinned some and at one point she may even bite down, surprising even herself as she runs her tongue over to find she's made herself bleed. Opening her mouth to speak, she finds no words form, and shakes her head.

When she does finally manage to get the words out, they are not the idealistic romanticism's of youth many have, but a bleak, weary outlook that leaves no doubt of the truth she feels behind it.

"Goals?" she questions again, almost as if the question surprises her, only laughably and unexpectedly, as though she were more surprised at the interest rather than the meaning. "At one time they were very similar to the ones you described. A remnant of my mother, I expect." A sadness creeps along her features as she looks down, lowering a tightly balled fist to her side. "But those... dreams," the last word said with a sharpness, as if the fantasy of the word itself were abhorrent, "They were not meant for the likeness of me." The fist relaxes and is quickly and nervously grabbed by the other, absently rubbing at the same area of covered skin between the thumb and forefinger of her left hand.

"I suppose when all is settled here I will return to the forest as I was before."

Making a sharp gesture, similar to a sharp jerk of her head she rises pacing a moment before closing her eyes and releases a breath. "It is-- nice to know that this time, I will still have friends to visit from time to time," she adds, looking off. The conversation has taken an unexpected turn and lack of sleep has caught her off guard. Her discomfort is noted in every jerky gesture and unsteady breath. The stance is familiar to anyone who has hunted before. The deer just before the strike, ready to bolt at a moments notice.

Which is exactly what happens the moment Valoria shows up, through no fault of her own. "No, no. Of course not, I was just in need of air. If you'll excuse me. " she gave a smile and curt nod to both Valoria and Rook and made a break for the nearest exit.

>> Graves/Outside area>>>
This message was last edited by the player at 01:18, Mon 13 June 2016.

Pipre tilts her head to return the greeting, the confident, concentrated expression on her face not breaking. "Brother Bartholemew. No, not recently. Please do sit," she turns her dark, luminous eyes over to Valoria for a moment. She pointed out a bottle amongst several other, "This is the only thing currently safe to drink, if you need refreshment." The bottle was frosted slightly, somehow chilled ale that is condensating thanks to the heat of the sun. She also offers a tin of rolled cigarettes, puffing contently on her own as she worked carefully and precisely. "I'm still waiting for you to show me some cool spells," she says with an offhand wink targeted at the other woman.

Not sure if Valoria is talking to Pipre or Rook and Aris'ta, if it's the latter than we can scratch this

"Bart is in with Henry at the moment.  They were discussing a mass investiture at dinner this evening." Tib says in response to Valoria's overheard question.

"Anyone seen Big Job?  I need to check  his equipment out, if we are going out on hunting together."

Pipre smirks, "His equipment is pretty good," she says in her usual smoky, sultry tone. "But I'm no expert, he should be around."

Tib looks puzzled for a moment and shrugs at Pipre's comment, before turning to see if Valoria or Rook have any suggestion.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 16:56, Mon 13 June 2016.

As evening starts to fall Svetlana serves up a big pot of stew – There are two or three different meats in there, certainly rabbit, meat from some sort of bird as well as various vegetables and a generous helping of barley to thicken it and bind it all together- and there are even a few honey cakes for dessert.

Before it is served, Brother Bart carries out a swift and very informal investiture ceremony that seems to entail him handing over a badge and writing down the recipient’s name – but no oaths or swearing or even anything similar.  At the same time, Henry reminds you of the teams and seach areas.

”Bai, Rook, Aris’ta, Pipre and Zorah I would like you to take the Gnarlemarche.  Start at the closest point and work your way down.  Andalon, Valoria, Cyrus, Percy and Vik  - I would like you to take the area east of here.  Apparently there is a hermit  about a dozen miles east – start there and work your way down, but stay this side of the river for now.

Leave first thing in the morning, and report back here in one week’s time.  Svetlana has some dried supplies for you, although you will want to supplement it as you travel.  Borric, Adoven, Oleg and Rusty will be taking the wagons to Restov tomorrow.  I know some of you have spoken with them already, but anyone else who wants something brought back from the city needs to speak up this evening.

Later in the evening, Borric confirms that he is to bring back some sort of portable forge for Cyrus and two sets of tools (Leather Working and Wood Working) for Lex.

---

OOC1:  Other tools and raw materials can be ordered so long as they can be paid for.  Remind me if I have forgotten anything :)
OOC2:  Time for the last personal storyline posts at Oleg’s and then into the Exploration Threads.

"Thank you Henry. We are honored to be your deputies." Cyrus says after being deputized.

Hearing the locations of their search area, Cyrus is reminded of an idea he had earlier. Looking across to Vik and Percy who were seated with he, Andalon and Valoria, Cyrus spoke  up saying, "Vik, has Lolli mentioned anything about the area we are designated to search? I wonder if Oleg or any of the other bandits is familiar with the area we have been assigned? I have another matter to discuss with David, would you or Percy mind asking around?"


Cyrus stands, he smiles at Valoria as he leaves their table to find David. Finding the man, he tells him the news he has about the forge and asks, "Are you interested in resuming your craft? I will pay for the temporary forge and a more permanent fixture in the future when my coin allows, but I will expect a favorable rate on any items I commission and I will expect you to commit to this profession. What do you say?"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:20, Mon 13 June 2016.

After the announcement and reminder of search areas is complete, Lex approaches Zorah and hoping he's not interrupting the deputies planning for departure, asks tentatively "Zorah, is it ok if your saddle is ready for you when you return? I've started the frame and cut the skins, but it will take me a few more days to complete it. I'm sorry it won't be helpful on this journey."

"I wouldn't dream of charging you for items after all you've provided.  At least, not until I've paid off my debt to you.  I will commit all of my attention to this task."  He glances down at his food at his last comment but passes it off as taking a bite and looks Cyrus in the eyes after chewing the bite of stew, uncertain if the lord believes him.  Either way, David knows Cyrus will be unconcerned if he returns to David with a pocket full of coins won at the card table to pay off his debt earlier than expected.


14:11, Today: David Hart rolled 16 using 1d20+5.  bluff check for lying about his intentions

"Of course!  I didn't expect it to be done before I needed to leave again.  Take your time and make it right, I'd rather it take longer and be well made than fall apart on the ride back."

Before heading to bed for the night Zorah spends some time training Wilson near the stables.  He's able to grip the bottle now, but it having trouble taking off while keeping ahold of it.

In reply to David Hart (msg # 123):

"Of course. If you are able to raise the funds for either the temporary or permanent forge on your own, I would be happy to see you do so. This will be your forge, your livelihood. Make of it what you will. I hope to see that hammer in action when I return."

Cyrus leaves the old man with those parting words and moves back to his group.

In reply to Zorah (msg # 124):

"I will make sure it is the best saddle I have ever made!" Lex says with a smile. He then pulls his cloak around his shoulders and arms and says "What a chilly night. I'm glad Pru returned with my cloak. It was torn but Pru mended it. She's quite good with a needle and thread. If you ever need anything mended or want someone to make you a new dress, she's your girl."

Lolli spoke before Vik could answer

"I don't know much, like I was saying to Lady Viktoria previously, but what I do know is this Stag Lord. I've seen him, been around him. He never takes off his armour. Strong too, able to kill a man with nothing but a mailed fist. And a dead eye with a bow. I'd recommend we keep a watch out, that armour is like as not to stand out. And we'd best be ready to run, or to put him on his back. Nothing in between will go our way."

Zorah hides a smile with her hand as she turns her head so as not to embarrass Lex.  "That's quite a glowing endorsement Lex.  I'll be sure to ask her should I need anything.  maybe you could introduce me before I head over to the stable to work with Wilson."

With a new potion in her belt, next to another one quite like it, and her travelling supplies for catalysts and skin cream, as well as a couple other concoctions made and taken, Pipre was ready to receive her badge. She pinned it on the arm of her jacket, in a place under the stitching that looks made for just such a distinction. She is strangely proud of the badge, huffing on it and polishing it before applying it to herself.

She hears some interesting talk, and moves over to Prudence and Lex, the short pigtails she had put her hair in for the day bouncing jauntily. "I could use some new clothes," she says, "I'll put you in business." She sits down with Prudence to begin sketching out some ideas of the garments she wants, leaving some space over to the side for her measurements, "Maybe you should measure me, right?"

Among the designs are a couple of short, loose dresses- one design hangs from the shoulders and the other features a tall collar and lace ruffles down the front. There are also some small clothes, bikini-like tops and bottoms some made from delicate material and some made from more resistant material to be worn openly. A few varieties of stockings for the cooler months that would go up to the tops of her upper thighs, and with Lex there she also lays out some designs for new boots, finger-less leather gloves, and a leather jacket- similar in design to the jacket she wears, short in the front, a forked diamond tail in the back.

She even gets David in on it, designing metal accouterments that would strap onto the coat at the arms and hands and over the boots. She insists that the leather work be dyed black for uh, you know, camouflage or something.

Basically studded leather armor, but I don't like the goofy armor with little round pieces of metal on it, I would rather have leather reinforced with light armor plates that is functionally the same as the stats for studded leather. I'll sign over all 50gp for the everything, to make it all as nice as can be.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:38, Tue 14 June 2016.

In reply to Zorah (msg # 128):

Lex brings Pru over to meet Zorah, but she departs to go train Wilson after a few minutes and some light pleasantries. Lex stays with Pru and the alchemist approaches them both with very ambitious designs. Lex is excited for more work and lets Pipre know, "I'll need some skins for the gloves boots and the leather portions of the armor and the plates from David. He'll probably need some raw materials as well. I can check with him and we'll put in an order with Borric. It might take us some time to get all of this together but I think we can manage. Would you give half of the coin up front to pay for materials and we'll take the rest when you return and see the progress?"

"I should have around fifty gold in credit and you can use as much of it as the designs require, all three of you. I'll make sure the right people know this is the case. If things aren't going to satisfaction when I return we can just alter things accordingly- that's how you get better at things, after all."

Unless I am mistaken and we have coins in hand, in which case she will hand them over. I'm okay with paying extra for nice clothes and all that.

The rest of Rook's day found him rather busy as he prepared for the next. His first concern was the writing supplies needed to map out the forest. He checked with Oleg to see if he had anything available, still unsure as to whether Bai would have the appropriate equipment. He also did his best to procure stationary to send a message to his family. It was short and messy, but he made sure to give them the location to Oleg and assured them he was well and working hard. He gave it along with 10 gold to the group travelling to Restov with a request to have it sent to his village.

Then he had to prepare for the forest. He didn't know anything about his new sword, but he was able to easily practice with the short bow. It was weaker than his original weapon, but it definitely made up for it by the ease of carry. He wondered how it would handle hunting and then realized he would have more than ample opportunity in the coming week. At the ceremony Rook takes the badge and gives his name, looking at it briefly before putting it away in a pouch. He appears much more interested in helping Svetlana serve the stew to everyone in the camp.

Ari'ta had remained absent for most of the day. At some point, she must have returned, as her mattress was made neat, and her bow and quiver had disappeared. Just before the investiture, she magically seemed to appear. It was clear she had bathed, her hair had been pulled back neatly, pulled so tightly from her face that not a spare hair dared stray from it's hold. Still drying, it curled in soft tendrils at the base of her spine. The only notable difference were the hollows that seemed to have appeared below her eyes and the slightly puffed edges, but she tried not to focus on a single person specifically. She took her badge, but said nothing of it. Much like Rook, it was tucked away and forgotten.

When it came time to eat, she'd been hesitant, especially when she noted Rook take a place with Svetlana. It meant no avoiding the situation, unless she asked someone else to get her food which would only raise more suspicions. Besides that, despite earlier, she had made a promise and she meant to keep it. There was only to hope her nerves were more controlled. She waited until she was one of the last to be served, held his gaze and whispered something for his ears only, then quickly moved on. She did her best to eat, really she did, but after a few meager bites, she abandoned further desire for food and instead offered to help wash dishes. She did so quietly, looking for no help, and working within what limits were allowed of her. It was something she'd always done at home, and though she eventually left to make room for others whose job included the dishes, she at least felt good in knowing she had helped in return for the food.

After a quick trip to the tower to relieve unwanted equipment, she moved outside, eager to make the most of what was left of the day.

-->Around Oleg's--->

Pru remained quiet, with wide, watchful eyes and a hopeful smile. She nodded pleasantly when spoken to, sometimes unable to get a word in edgewise thanks to the help of Lex, though to say it was embarrassing to hear such praise was certainly cutting it short. As Pipre speaks, Pru fishes into a pouch at her belt, pulling out a thin, long, rolled piece of cloth. To the naked eye, it looked like a blank line of thickened material, but removing a small sliver of coloring after it, she was able to make her measurements while Pipre moved about, calling others into the making including Lex. She smile over Pipre's head and she repeated her measurements for a second time, carefully notching and making a small mark near each mark to indicate what it related to. She liked the woman, she knew what she wanted and Pipre could easily find herself losing herself in designs of this fashion.

"Have you ever considered boning for your corsets?" Pru asked, looking over the design Pipre had made and indicating with finger the shape, "They offer more support and less wear on the back. Your clothes might last longer," as she considered the intricacies and details not seen in design.

The young cleric smiled as he helped dole out the stew to the numerous people now residing within and around the outpost. It was hard to imagine that less than a week ago it had only been the old couple trying to fend off a gang of bandits. And now here were many of the same bandits being fed by the pair. The warmth in him was tempered when he imagined how the two must feel after everything that had happened. Relief, I'm sure. But maybe also resentment or fear. He was distracted when he saw Aris'ta, barely registering the words until she had long moved on. Stammering noiselessly, he gestured at nothing and then returned to the work needed to clean up after the meal. After about an hour he left directly with a hand on the still foreign-feeling blade on his left hip.

> Around Oleg's

Pipre had taken off her coat and after the corset question she began sizing her waist up against her hips, there was quite a ratio of difference. "Well, I never had a nice one built for my body specifically. The ones I ever came into contact with either was too loose at the top or dug into my hips." She punctuated this by once more grabbing herself by the waist and then the hips. "And I do move around quite a lot." The petite, bottom-heavy alchemists twists thick red lips in thought, head tiltling slightly. "What do you think? You're quite pretty, I'd value your thoughts on the matter."

Pru grinned and admired the figure. It was a shame her work took her far and wide, Pru could easily have seen her flouncing around the main cities in outfits like this.

"You've had the wrong seamstress," Pru remarked, coming up behind Pipre and placing a hand on each hip, pressing down firmly before nodding. "They often make the the mistake of boning laterally too high. This creates friction on top. If we have one placed here" she indicated under one breast, " and here, " then the other, "You'll get a nice lift. The problem in your wait comes down to lacing error. The lines are crooked, you'll never get a good fit like this. " she pulls back and bites on her thumb, a design working on her mind.

Pipre scintillated at the firm grasps along her hips and her slender, soft rib area under her breasts. She knew she shouldn't be, that it was business, but hey, she was sensitive and those were pretty erogenous areas. She let out a long breath before continuing, turning and looking up at Prudence through long, feathery black eyelashes. "I've never had a seamstress," she admits. The fact that her shoes consist of cloth and thatch wrapping probably could have told anyone that. She lifts her half-eyebrow and a slight curl comes to the outer corner of her excessive lips, "I'd certainly be willing to try one for taste, though."

She excitedly relents to adding the boning to the designs.

25 on armor, 25 on clothes. Sounds legit.

"That was apparent, I just wanted to hear you concede to one." she grinned from ear to ear, "I think, Miss Pipre, this could be the beginning of a beautiful relationship. " she says with another flash of her winning smile. "With any luck, we'll find a cobbler to fix up some dainty shoes to match the outfit I've planned for you. Then you'll be a sight for all eyes. Do you have any specifics of color?" she added quickly as an afterthought.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 05:21, Tue 14 June 2016.

"Taupe? It's kind of a grey purple." She gestures to parts of her coat where the purple of a noble's coat has worn down to a stained grey. She moves a little closer, sidling up next to the seamstress, "Speaking of beautiful relationships, were there any measurements we ought to do in private? I did ask for some pretty intimate things in those designs."

Pru has the grace to flush, but she collects herself well and nods her head. "Some would be a bit more uncomfortable for those of present company. If you wish me to get them now, I'd be happy to oblige. It's been awhile since I've been able to make nice things for people, especially the style you prefer. " she remarks, honestly.

Pipre was pink around the ears and bridge of her nose, as well, her dark eyes glittering and luminescent. She looked around the trading post, noticing activity everywhere. She stopped Svetlana politely, "Ah excuse me, is there anywhere private I could borrow? It would be scandalous to be walked in upon," she adds.

Svetlana looks at Oleg, who shrugs his acceptance, and then she shows Pipre and Prudence into a private office in  her house.

Lex considers offering to help with Pipre's shoes, but she seems much more interested in clothing and happy that Pru has found her first and very valuable customer, he moves on. He finds David and lets him know about the need for some armor plates and then asks Borric to pick up the leather and iron they will need to make the studded leather, boots and fingerless gloves Pipre showed him. He also mentioned that Borric should check with Pru before she leaves to find out if she needs any cloth and to take it out of Miss Pipre's line of credit.

After that he finds himself a bit tired but wants to see if he can learn any more animal tricks from Zorah before she leaves for a while so he follows her to the stable to see what she is up to.

Having spoken with David regarding the forge, Cyrus returns to the group he is going to be traveling with. He hears Lolli's warning about the Stag Lord and takes note of what she says about killing a man with a gauntlet and thinks they should steer clear of him for a while until they are better equipped. He wonders if they are even traveling in the direction of his base, or if he has one, he asks Lolli if she knows where his base of operations is before turning his mind to other topics of interest.

Despite his earlier words, Perch is a bit disappointed in the lack of ceremony around the investiture, but of course is too much of a gentleman to let even a hint of that show, instead showing good grace as he collects his badge and makes sure his name is spelled correctly.

The rest of the evening passes pleasantly enough, though he politely declines any final calls for orders for items to be fetched back from Restov.  The stew is certainly tasty and the honey cakes after a pleasant treat.

Andalon enjoys the simple ceremony and is obviously very pleased to receive his deputy's badge from Henry. He fastens the badge onto his studded leather armour just above his heart.

Then he talks to the guys going to Restov for supplies. He asks them to obtain the particular inks, paper and pens he will require to scribe some clerical scrolls. If they can only get some of them from the temple of Abadar in Restov they will need to quote his name and explain that they are for his own personal use to obtain trade prices on the deal. He wants them to use all of his 50gp share of the treasure on these purchases.

Having kept quiet and to herself for most of the evening Bai sat apart from the group shifting from writing in her journal to eating spoonfuls of the stew. Every few minutes she's stop and finger the badge she'd received. It was a reminder of how, in her opinion, things were supposed to work. If a person was going to set about asserting their will as law, they should be appointed to that position. The anarchy that seemed to fill the lands out here, and to some extent the outpost around her, grated at her. Getting away from the outpost would probably do her some good. She muttered to herself and put her hand to her temple, rubbing.

When she'd had her fill of the stew the small woman stood up and return the bowl to Svetlana, smiling politely. "That was quite good, I'd love it if you'd be able to show me the recipe sometime." With that she went looking for Jack, she'd made a short shopping list and hadn't seen him do much. If he was going to be working for her, he should be working and perhaps this trip Restov would be a good way to put him to work. When she found him she pulled him to the side and gave him a paper as well as a small pouch of coins. Finally satisfied with what she'd done she made her way to the tower she slept in and prepared for bed.

"Thank you." Svetlana smiles back at Bai's complement.

Valoria noted the badge, taking in the details of the thing before fastening the badge onto her black robes. She greatly enjoyed the rabbit and the bird meat as it was one of the best meal she had had in some time. She smiled and gave a nod to Cyrus as he lift the table. She made note to show Pipre some spells as she requested. Still, that would have to wait until later.

She looked over to her cousin and spoke about something he would enjoy, business.  “Cousin, I was thinking of having five gold pieces of my share moved over to you. That should pay for the next few times the group needs healing. If that is agreeable?” She paused and quickly moved onto the next topic. “How did your talk with  Cyrus go? Well I hope?”

--------------
NEW DAY
--------------

After breakfast the various expeditions set out.  Bai leading one group of deputies southwards, Andalon leading another group to the east.  Borric leaves soon after with Oleg and Rusty driving the wagons, Jack riding along as a passenger, and Adoven bringing up the rear.  Then finally Tib and Big Job leave - However they are on foot leading a horse with a pack saddle, their aim is to fetch back enough game to keep Svetlana’s kitchen running for a while.

Then Henry calls everyone who remains behind to the tables by the fire.

”While Oleg and Svetlana are kind enough to allow us to stay here, it is beholden on us to provide something in return.  Some of you are aware of my plans already, but for the rest of you, this will all be new.  I have given my word that that we will help repair and improve the outpost, and you, as you prove your worth to society, are going to fulfil that promise for me.  We have already started to make the four corner towers habitable and, during this next week, I want to see that job completed.  Under Lex’s supervision you will install a floor half way up and fill in the wall gaps with timber.  I expect the basic construction to be finished by the end of the week, although we will have to use a lot of green timber to complete it in that time.  Rikka will oversee work schedules and specifics, Lex is responsible for overseeing the construction, Brother Bart will deal with issues, concerns and administration – as well as any spiritual concerns that you might have.

Zach, I understand that you have experience with horses and stables, so you will be responsible for the horses and corral as well.  Anderson, I heard that you made the blinds and hurdles for your previous camp, and I will ask you to put those same talents to use when you are working on the buildings or helping out strengthening the corral.  Prudence, you will help Svetlana out when she needs it.  In between times, you will all be have some time to work on your own projects and tasks.

Keston and his men will help out as well, but they are also responsible for patrolling and policing the area, so if they ask you to do something please be cooperative.”

---

OOC:  This is here primarily as a scene setter for those NPCs left behind.  If two player controlled NPCs wish to RP they can – if both participants want to.  Ask if you want something serious from a DM controlled NPC :)

You may use 'empty' locations for NPC / NPC encounters.

PCs in those locations - just one or two posts to close those session out so you can go 'exploring'
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:34, Wed 15 June 2016.

In reply to Valoria der lin Lebeda (msg # 150):

Andalon bowed to his cousin as he accepted her offer.

"Thank you, Valoria. Your donation is greatly appreciated and will cover those occasions when no one else remembers to thank Abadar appropriately. Cyrus did indeed speak to me and I will say the same to you as I did to him. I have no right to say yea or nay in that matter but would certainly give my blessing, as long as both parties are in accord."

He smiled at her and stepped forward to embrace her, then kissed her on the cheek before stepping back again.

In reply to DM (msg # 151):

Lex almost jumped when he heard Henry mention his name in his announcement after the deputies had left. He'd been put in charge of the construction efforts. He'd been put in charge...

He thought for a minute about what his dad would do. His dad had been such a good teacher. He'd shown Lex how to carve wood frames, how to cut wood and leather, to measure twice, three times when it really mattered, how to sew leather. What had he done that had made it so easy to learn from him...

Lex was in charge of building a new level in each of the towers. They would need stairs to get to the second level as well. He had a week to do that. He guessed once they did one, the other three would be easy. But he couldn't assume that...

He thought about how he'd approached the saddle for Zorah. He still needed to finish that. Would he have time for that and Pipre's studded leather armor all while building all of these levels...

He looked up and the others had scattered.

He had to keep it simple. That's what his father had done. He'd kept things simple. He broke it down into the smallest steps and then he took them. One by one.

With that realization, Lex took off for the first tower. His first step, was to see the space the new floor would go. Were the walls straight or curved ever so slightly? Was the width of the room the same on both ends or had the builders widened or narrowed the walls as they worked? Did the walls go straight up or did the lean in or out? All of this mattered in building a new level...

After pacing the interior of the tower, twisting his body in numerous odd angles and poses to get answers to his questions, after sketching out the placement of the stairs and the hole that would be needed as an entry to the new level, Lex felt satisfied with his work and walked back over to Svetlana hoping to find Pru. She knew a sketch and he thought she might be able to tell him if he'd forgotten something. He also wanted to hear what the final arrangement was she'd reached with deputy Pipre. That conversation had gotten away from him when he'd left to put in the order for the leathers and iron for the plates...