RolePlay onLine RPoL Logo

, welcome to Europa: 513 AD

04:37, 5th May 2024 (GMT+0)

Aquae Grannis.

Posted by BenFor group 0
Ben
GM, 12199 posts
The Guy in Charge Here
Tue 5 Nov 2013
at 02:51
  • msg #6

Re: Aquae Grannis


"My first command is, I would wish that we move within the walls," Theoderic says.  "I have a company with me; Elves, Humans, Centaurs, and others.  And the able services of two wizards, one of which is my wife. But now that we know Aquae Grannis is in friendly hands, we shall shelter here and plan our next move... Juliacum may be the place."

 He sends word back to the rest of his force:  all is well, come to the town, and we shall prepare here for the next phase.

They enter through the north gate, with Brennus.  There are some curious people gathered, and some up on the gatehouse.  But the town looks very, very empty.  Many of the buildings have that cold and hollow look- they've been empty a long time.  And there is no sign of a recent battle.

Theoderic takes it in with a concerned, puzzled look.  "They said this was a holy place taken by the Huns.  And as close as it is to the Elves, I thought it would be well defended.  How was it you were able to secure this town, Lord Brennus?  What of the people here?"
Salen
player, 280 posts
Tue 5 Nov 2013
at 15:10
  • msg #7

Re: Aquae Grannis

The news of Aquae Grannis is rather unexpected, to say the least, but of course it is excellent news to hear. And this human, he seemed an honest and worthy sort.

"Well met, Lord Brennus. I am Salen Soulwater, of Geneva. You've met the King, and this is his Queen, Aelasuria. She's my sister, but please don't hold it against me!

You have done very well here. It is a joy to know this town has thrown off the Hun shackles. Pity there are so few townsfolk here..."

Aelasuria Soulwater
player, 1430 posts
Tue 5 Nov 2013
at 16:44
  • msg #8

Re: Aquae Grannis

OOC: posting in Aquae Grannis thread although will respond to posts in water garden thread.

"Hmm well I think it was only a matter of time before someone noticed Theo's army on the move. I am glad to hear that things are going well at Aquae Grannis."

Aelasuria smiles at Scolo then shakes her head. "I am afraid we didn't find any spell books or scrolls Scolo. We did find a unusual suit of armor that is quite slippery. I think it's meant for avoiding being grappled or some such. There is also a useful magical staff that we gave to cirrus. It seems to be perfect for anyone that wishes to travel from one place to another faster then is normally possible. Which makes it a great asset to someone that might carry important messages."

She shakes her head slightly. "I am not sure exactly where we will end up next. Theo is likely best to answer that one. I don't have any new news just yet on New Mestanon. Theo have you heard anything new while we were traveling?"

watching the pile of rocks form she looks it over curiously then smiles slightly when he leaves a message. "I wonder if the Minotaurs will appreciate that note. I certainly won't complain if they decide not to help the Huns. That is good enough even if they don't help us."

Walking with Scolo and the others she heads into Aqua Grannis to see what things are like there. She takes Theo's hand walking by his side while she drinks in the sights of the people and town/city around her. "Thank you Brennus for your and everyone else's bravery in defeating the Giant Silok. I only wish we had arrived in time to help if we could."

Her silky red hair moves ever so slightly as the playful breeze flows past. One delicate elfin ear showing a bit more then the other as she turns her head to regard Theo when Brennus mentions being his to command. She smiles when he mentions her being a wizard. "Hello, My name is Aelasuria Soulwater. The other wizard he speaks of is Scolo. You can't miss him I do so love his fuzzy bunny slippers."

She smiles at the people looking on with a friendly expression. Then notes how empty the place seems to be. "IT's possible Theo that the people fled long ago. Possibly the Huns might have taken them prisoner and moved to another town  or city. Brennus Mentioned that many human slaves are being held at Juliacum that might be where the Huns would have taken some of the people."

She gives Salen a amused look when he says please don't hold that against me. She replies in a light hearted equally amused tone. "I am sure he won't Salen but I might dear brother mine might if you keep it up."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:56, Tue 05 Nov 2013.
Brennus
player, 54 posts
Tue 5 Nov 2013
at 16:52
  • msg #9

Re: Aquae Grannis

Brennus took the royal party directly to the temple to show the place the giant had met his demise and also the recovered Elven arms and armour.

"We took the town by stealth and surprise my king, but in truth for all the bravery and skill of Lord Lingones and his comrade in arms who slew Silok we would not have won if the Huns were really as strong as we thought. From what the townsfolk have revealed to me the Huns have suffered great casualties from raiding the Elves and there was a lot of reluctance to bleed further manpower away garrisoning this town. The few orcs left fled when the giant was defeated."

Introduced to Queen Aelasuria Brennus gave a deep bow, his expression obviously more flustered. "My Lady... I, uh apologise for the state of the town. If we had known you were coming..."

He trailed off, glancing sadly to Salen. What more was there to say about the town? "I believe the town could live again, for all it has suffered. The inhabitants are few but resilient."
Scolo
NPC, 382 posts
Parsnips and turnips,
that was good!
Wed 6 Nov 2013
at 03:44
  • msg #10

Re: Aquae Grannis

The wizard is tall and lanky, dressed in a frock which today is a dark blue with little mauve paisleys and stars it seems dull and lifeless for a time while he is thinking the. It grows shiny when he smiles at Salen and talks with the Bard as introduced.

Can you play something fun and wild? He asks.

He wears a small pinkish backpack like something made for a little girl and he carries a sky blue handbag made of an unusual leathery material not unlike some marine animal hide. His feet are wrapped in bunny slippers that wrap up his shins in white wool to keep his bare legs warm. Little pink eyes look curious. He is riding a mule usually but when they dismount his mount follows.

The wizard Scolo wanders into the town with the blink bunnies popping in and out of his portal hats ... Glitter falls and the smell of ozone follows if any one approaches or makes a face he draws a little magic butterfly out of the air to float around there heads and tickle their tummies as he goes singing.

... Still I sing Bonny boys
Bonny mad boys
Bedlam boys are Bonny!

For they all go bare
and they live by the air
And they want no drink nor money!


His singing is off-key and his dance embarassing but who would ever say that?
This message was last edited by the player at 03:45, Wed 06 Nov 2013.
Ben
GM, 12209 posts
The Guy in Charge Here
Thu 7 Nov 2013
at 01:38
  • msg #11

Re: Aquae Grannis

Brennus leads them through the strangely empty streets… which becomes less empty as they go along.  The people, few though they may be, show up to get a look at the strangers.  Especially Scolo, who is stranger than most.

There’s quite a mob, with everyone, Theoderic directs most of the Elven and Centaur troops he brought with him to take over the long unused tavern they pass- something with a big green mermaid sign.  It’s peculiar, a few think, to have a mermaid themed tavern so far from the sea.

Liloo the water sprite notes, “perhaps they simply forgot what a River Nymph looked like, but they knew there ought to be one here somewhere.

They pass many empty buildings, and along the way, they learn from Brennus what happened here- the battle with the giant, and the battles before, that depleted this place of Orcs.

The Ardennes Elves that came with Theoderic are a little embarrassed.  It involves them.  Their people.  And yet they’ve heard so little about this.

Finally they reach the grand temple complex.  It is a walled complex on the south side of the town, consisting of a large public temple (where the battle with the giant was fought) a private priests' temple, along with studies, an old library, a collection of ancient stone monoliths, and some support buildings, all gathered around a big reflecting pool- warm water, slightly steamy in the spring air, fed by both cool streams from the hills, and hot underground sources.

They review the temple, and at last gather to consider their next moves.
Aelasuria Soulwater
player, 1431 posts
Thu 7 Nov 2013
at 02:22
  • msg #12

Re: Aquae Grannis

Aelasuria shakes her head slightly with a gentle expression as she continues softly. "There is no need to apologize. I understand completely that these are dangerous and hard times. I am certain that the town given a chance will flourish once more."

Glancing over at Scolo she smiles and even though it wasn't really necessary she introduces him. "And that Brennis is Scolo the wizard. He's a interesting fellow who has traveled with us for a while. He is a little eccentric though there is no reason to worry."

"Theo the Tavern might have been abandoned. However it's possible there might be stores of Ale in the basement. Food is far less likely though with the challenge of keeping everyone in provisions it might be worth checking." Looking at Liloo with a smile she continues with a look of interest. "Perhaps they did. If the river is close by perhaps we should see if we can say hello to the Nymph of the river. She might have news or be interested in hearing that the water garden is safe now."

She is intrigue by the reflection pool gently trailing her fingers through the water. Unless of course there is some sort of warning that such is not to be done. "It's like a hot spring Theo. Something rare and nice to take advantage of unless it's prohibited for various reasons. I wouldn't mind looking through the library as well as long as it's permitted. You never know what you will find in such places. Some books are true gems well worth the time to find and read."
Scolo
NPC, 383 posts
Parsnips and turnips,
that was good!
Thu 7 Nov 2013
at 03:27
  • msg #13

Re: Aquae Grannis

Scolo impulsively wanders into the library. His childish and erratic manners calm with joyful anticipation. For if there is one thing the loremaster respects it is sturdy for its own sake and the collection of knowledge, stories and ideas.
Heolstor
player, 718 posts
Lord of Lingones
Thu 7 Nov 2013
at 19:41
  • msg #14

Re: Aquae Grannis

Heolstor made his way to the temple, walking Aquae Grannis' hollow streets alone but for Pwyll's company as he moved in the procession's wake. It was quiet, and no wonder at that: the people here likely had no notion of how to deal with the current and previous days' events. Not but a week prior they had been slaves. Some, he supposed, for their entire lives.

Lord Strang entered the temple without fanfare. A crow sat atop his shoulder, dark eyes watching warily from its perch as the bird took in a host of new faces. Tall, dark-haired, and bright-eyed with a sword at his belt and shield at his back he fit the bill of a warrior: though the armor he wore looked to be cut from a snake's scale, rather than steel. Without a word he took up a place among the assembled, offering a nod of recognition to King Theoderic and his bride. The others, the Saxon thought as his olive-green eyes rolled over them, he had not yet met.
Petra
player, 598 posts
Half-elf priestess
Ehre fur alle die Gotter
Thu 7 Nov 2013
at 22:01
  • msg #15

Re: Aquae Grannis

Petra entered as well, shortly after Heolstor.   She gave courtesy to the King and Queen, and then without much preamble, proceeded to impart what she knew:

"We have re-consecrated the temple to Belenus, my lord and lady.   Apparently, his relationship with the Nymphs is a close one, and has imbued this place with divine power.  It is why it was selected as the site for the temple, originally.  The reconsecration should allow his power to again be dominant here.   Moreover, the Wurm tributary is a part of Lady Mosanna's domain, and the source of the Wurm is these very springs.  I am rather certain she will know the changes that have taken place here, therefore."  Petra paused momentarily, then added:

"There is something else I must inform you all of, too. I have not even told my lord Heolstor, as yet. I was sworn to secrecy on this by Mosanna herself, until after Aquae Grannis had been secured.  For very good reason.  She told me that a Hun warlock had been at work here, trying to produce a portal that would allow the vile waters of the Styx to pour into the springs.  It was a secondary agenda, after combating the Elves, not a priority of theirs.  And that is why she wished it to remain secret;  for fear that if the Huns knew she was aware, then it would become high priority to finish. And why the retaking of this place was a priority above even the Water Garden.  During the reconsecration, I went about and very thoroughly checked for emanations of evil, and could find none.  And also cast a purge of invisibility.  I do not know if the Hun's spell-worker was amongst the dead, but it should be endeavored to find out.  And Aquae Grannis guarded and watched, for the immediate future." 
Salen
player, 281 posts
Thu 7 Nov 2013
at 22:07
  • msg #16

Re: Aquae Grannis

Usually, Salen would be found at the inn, making new friends and exchanging stories and...enjoying the fruits of such an establishment. But not this time, not today. And not just because of Scolo's singing. Instead he makes his way with his companions - and others - to the temple complex.

The reflecting pool is quite large and grand, and appears quite mystical with the steam rising off it. He finds he wants to head for the old library and see what it is like, part of his new, more studious self. But there are other matters to attend to, and so he joins everyone in the temple proper. There was someone here, a human warrior of renown, that he had not met. And so, before things got overly formal, he decided to introduce himself.

"Lord of Lingones? An honour to meet you, Sir. I am Salen Soulwater of Geneva. How has the fighting been?"
Aelasuria Soulwater
player, 1432 posts
Thu 7 Nov 2013
at 22:28
  • msg #17

Re: Aquae Grannis

For now since it's obviously a very important meeting she puts off her desires to peek into the library. Aelasuria gives Helostar and Petra a warm welcoming look and smile. She makes a graceful elvish gesture of greeting and respect. Then listens to Petra speaking of the secret that Lady Mosanna had imparted to her. "Thank you Petra for this very important news. Theo if we can we should call on the elves and other available people to reinforce Aqua Grannis. We can't afford to let the Huns open a portal to the River Styx here. Strategically it would be fruitful if we can strike any nearby forces before they can gather into one much larger army and attempt to retake Aqua Grannis. That or hit them where it hurts so they keep their eyes focused elsewhere."
Brennus
player, 55 posts
Fri 8 Nov 2013
at 00:00
  • msg #18

Re: Aquae Grannis

Brennus nodded as the Queen spoke; he agreed as much himself.

He stayed uneasily silent as the others spoke, uncertain as to exactly where his standing was.  On the one hand it had been a great relief to see the arrival of the royals and the promise of military support. On the other hand he could feel his unofficial lordship of Aquae Grannis slowly ebbing in the face of Petra's spiritual authority and Heolster's heroism. His hopes of a real title were fading away.

Still it would all be for naught if the Orcs returned in strength.  "My Queen the collected arms and armour of the elves are available if you wish to send them. I admit I am no expert but I believe I saw the emblems of the Lighthawks and the Taurvants. There was also a blade with an unquenchable thirst to slay to the giant." He was unable to conceal a shudder as he thought of the sword that had a will of it's own.
Heolstor
player, 719 posts
Lord of Lingones
Fri 8 Nov 2013
at 00:03
  • msg #19

Re: Aquae Grannis

"The honour is mine, Salen Soulwater." Heolstor replied, offering the elf his hand. "I've heard tell of a bold warrior by the same name. You look to be him, if I'm any judge." As they shook hands, Pwyll watched from his handler's shoulder, corvid eyes set on the meeting hands.

The Saxon set his hand on his blade's sheath, letting his fingers rest easily on its pommel. For a moment he considered the question, looking Southward for a heartbeat as he weighed his response. "It has gone well. We freed Tullum on our march from Lingones at little cost... and routed the Hunnic spear intended for the Ardennes at Beda. Our armies put the steel to them, and I pursued those few lucky enough to escape with their hides." Heolstor continued, though now he frowned uncertainly. "Any other warlord would turn his ambitions for the Ardennes aside after the defeat the Emperor suffered there, and elsewhere."

"But the Emperor is not other warlords." He admitted.

"The fight was short here. Priestess Faust gave us breath - and we approached from within the canals, under the water's surface, all the way to this pool." Heolstor nodded to a series of steps leading out of the water. "Then I led our band out, and into Silok's chambers, where we slew the giant. My men outside seized the walls and gates shortly after."

"It was bloodless, save for Silok and his Hunnic henchmen, thank the gods." Lord Strang seemed particularly vehement about that last point, looking to Petra with a relieved smile. Heolstor's voice grew a bit louder momentarily after that, and he glanced in Theoderic's direction perhaps suggestively. "Since then, Brennus has taken leadership among the locals and started to rally them to rebuild. The boy has a keen mind and a will to lead."

"But what of your tale, Salen of the Soulwater? You have won glory of recent, that I do not doubt." Heolstor invited, warmer than he had been upon his arrival.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:08, Fri 08 Nov 2013.
Ben
GM, 12215 posts
The Guy in Charge Here
Fri 8 Nov 2013
at 02:16
  • msg #20

Re: Aquae Grannis


Because of the overlapping story lines here, I am breaking out a few parts.  For those that want to wander the library/private temple area, go here:  The Temple of Belenus and Mosanna.    At the moment, it is Scolo.


In the great public temple, they meet.  Theoderic is surprised that Heolstor’s relatively small force took Aquae Grannis so easily.  Then, he learns that the defenders here were also few in number, and dependent on their own strength- the giant.  They fled as soon as they learned he was dead.

”It’s a blessing and a curse at the same time, “ Theoderic says.  “And I understand it.  The Huns are brutes, but from time to time there are Huns who have the capacity for strategy.  They keep their larger force back… Juliacum, it sounds like.  This place, and the other exposed places along the border, such as Coriovallum I would guess, are then lightly held.  But we cannot hold it ourselves, as long as the Huns are in Juliacum, because they would return here as soon as our backs were turned.

”As Aelasuria says, we cannot leave them with a larger force in position to retake this place.  If we cannot route them from Juliacum, then, we have not won, because we do not have the forces to leave a garrison here.  And the Hun shaman Petra was warned of… obviously he was not here.  We have to press on, if there is to be any hope of finding him.  Heolstor, we bring a troop of Centaurs, and some Elven warriors with us.  Are your men ready to move again?  This next time, I fear there will be stronger opposition.”


Outside, the troops and the increasingly amazed survivors of Aquae Grannis know none of this.  Centaurs!  Elven warriors!  For them, this is a time of wonder.  With what little they have, they welcome the liberators.
Brennus
player, 56 posts
Fri 8 Nov 2013
at 03:22
  • msg #21

Re: Aquae Grannis

A shadow passed across Brennus's face as Theoderic spoke. There was nothing he disagreed with in his liege lord's assessment but it was a terrible blow to his standing that the King, even with the promoting of Lord of Lingones had seemingly forgotten him or deemed him inconsquential. With effort he remained silent, determined not to show his humiliation.
Ben
GM, 12223 posts
The Guy in Charge Here
Sat 9 Nov 2013
at 04:06
  • msg #22

Re: Aquae Grannis

As the group discusses, Gia shows up.  The peasant woman, formerly one of the “bread team” assigned by the Huns to make the bread rations for the Humans here, is now a sort of manager, in the ad hoc hierarchy established by Brennus.

She has taken it upon herself to bring everyone food, because that’s what she figures ought to be done.  Important guests, right?  There should be food.  She has fresh bread.

Gia sets things out in front of Brennus, reporting to him:  “There is a celebration beginning outside, sir,” she says.  “No one planned it.  But when everyone saw the Centaurs, and the others, they are very happy.”

At this, Theoderic realizes that Brennus seems to have taken charge here.

”Lord Brennus, what is the condition of the people here?” he asks.  “How many are here?”


There is some worry in his face.  There are not many resources to spare, if they need substantial help.  And if they are in danger... it is impossible to evacuate them.
Brennus
player, 57 posts
Sun 10 Nov 2013
at 01:32
  • msg #23

Re: Aquae Grannis

"Thank Gia, it is alright. I shall be along shortly." Brennus replied. He gave the woman a smile  before turning his attention back to the monarch.

"Not many my King." Brennus admitted. "Perhaps two hundred or so, though I believe there are quite a few held in the Hunnish slave camps. Nor are the survivors here fit for war; there are few young men in good health amongst them. Perhaps the treasure liberated from Silok's horde could go to the hiring of sellswords to defend this place while our own soldiers are employed elsewhere?"
Heolstor
player, 720 posts
Lord of Lingones
Sun 10 Nov 2013
at 01:39
  • msg #24

Re: Aquae Grannis

Heolstor took pause when Petra revealed Mosanna's intimation. Things, as they always did, seemed to grow more complicated by the moment. Did this fel intent change the situation? Did it mean, again, that he must delay his return to Lingones? The Saxon raised a hand to his forehead, running it back over his black hair as his thoughts churned. Heolstor's mind warred against itself: concern for his people and his sense of duty arrayed opposite his desire to see this matter settled and the Huns crushed thoroughly.

He would have liked a clear answer. Unfortunately, life was not made of these. For the first time he wondered if Patre Arctos' zealotry did not have its benefits. Did that dwarf ever doubt his path? Heolstor's olive eyes rolled over the assembled. Measuring. Considering. They caught up on Petra, like a hare caught in the briar, as he smiled warmly but resignedly.

Before Silok, Heolstor would not have needed to consider his course. To find his enemy, to best him in glorious combat, and to win glory. That was a warrior's purpose... But somehow things had changed in those last few days. He still hated the Huns, but that fire was tempered by something else.

How had his men fared on the march back? What of Einhard and Tullum? Was Lingones prepared for the coming winter? Did the Huns rally, even now, outside his own realm in preparation to attack? What would happen if this shaman succeeded in bringing the Styx to the mortal realm? Would it mean all their eventual ends?... And if Theoderic failed, what end would come to Aquae Grannis?

Nothing happy, Heolstor surmised.

Then Theoderic asked his question. The request, the presumption, of aid obvious. "My men are ready to march this hour, King Theoderic, if the need for their blades is there." Heolstor replied. The Saxon warlord looked to his Frankish counterpart, face still like stone and stance stolid as an old oak. "The bloodletting was light here, none are wounded beyond riding. Few are wounded at all."

He stood back, stretched, placing his thumbs between the girth of his belt and the scales of his armor. The Saxon nodded considerately, chin heavy, as the sun came through the temple's doors to cast his face dichromatically. One half caught in light, the other in shadow.

"... And I have my ways, I could enter this city by day or night without detection. Perhaps open a gate or make way for your vanguard... But if I am to move on Juliacum with you, it must be now or it cannot be at all." Heolstor explained. The weight of his words sat heavy on his shoulders, but he bore it well. "My people have done without me for the duration of this campaign. At some point, I must return to them. I serve at their pleasure, not my own. So: before winter's grip is tight on the land, I must be gone."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:55, Sun 10 Nov 2013.
Aelasuria Soulwater
player, 1433 posts
Sun 10 Nov 2013
at 03:08
  • msg #25

Re: Aquae Grannis

"I would be happy to look over this Arms and Armor Brennus. I can perhaps tell you specifics about the sword witch had a thirst to slay a giant. Such is rare and likely powerful magical sword. Are these items far from here? I see your Familiar with Elvish family crests. Have you spent much time amongst the elves?" She thought it likely he had especially if he was familiar with their crests. Though she couldn't be certain or if he had what exactly the relationship had been.

listening to the conversation between Heolstor and her brother she found the details interesting. Taking note of everything he said she speaks softly to Theo. Keeping it as private as possible as she knows as king she didn't want to put him in a difficult position if people overheard. "If Lord Brennus has already taken charge here perhaps he could be appointed in some capacity? They already look to him for leadership and trust him. If he plans on staying in this area he might even be able to lead whatever force protects Aqua Grannis.  If he plans on aiding in different struggles against the Huns you need men you can trust to lead various forces."

She whispers to Theo uncertain of such proceedings. "Perhaps a knighthood if you plan on having knights. Or something else if he is already above that title. I am sharing my thoughts Theo as I feel you should do what you feel is right."

She smiles for a moment at Brennus as well as Helostar listening as the man continues the conversation. She was happy to know they would have more of the desperately needed people to successfully repel the Huns.
Theoderic
Mon 11 Nov 2013
at 03:03
  • msg #26

Re: Aquae Grannis

Theoderic nods at Brennus's words.  “Mercenaries.  In any other time they should be avoided.  But this is not any other time.  There are plenty of men from Gaul who would take the job, if they could be paid for it.  After all... Gaul has the 'Emperor's Peace' now and has no need for fighting men.”

Then he looks around at the others. “But in the short term... the best way to secure the safety of those here is to destroy the threat, is it not?  Juliacum is the battle I thought would take place here.  It is a river line, and I hope, defensible, if we can take it.” 

He sends word back to the others.  There is a general mood of celebration in the town, among inhabitants and the warriors, who were understandably happy to have things go so easily.

Then Theoderic speaks with Heolstor:

Your efforts have done you much credit already.  It would be no shame if you had thought you had done enough, so I appreciate your effort in the battle to come.  We shall move quickly.  We will do what we can to gain a report on the foe, but we will be quick and decisive.  And you have your ways to take a gatehouse… and you are not the only magic we have.  Aelasuria can turn the tide of a fight with her magic. First, we must learn what we can of what we face there.”


And to Brennus, he adds; “In a very short time, you may find yourself with more than Aquae Grannis to worry about.  This is not Heolstor’s domain, and he will be leaving after this campaign is over.  Someone will be needed, not only here, but all the lands between the Meuse and the Wurm.  If there is no steady hand here, driving out the Huns will not end the miseries here.  Juliacum is next… are there any here with knowledge of that place?”
Brennus
player, 58 posts
Mon 11 Nov 2013
at 17:49
  • msg #27

Re: Aquae Grannis

"There is a youth my King, called Orreg. He has been to Juliacum and can perhaps help with war plans. I'll go and find him at once."

Brennus departed, intent on finding the local boy and returning with him as soon as possible.
Aelasuria Soulwater
player, 1434 posts
Mon 11 Nov 2013
at 19:29
  • msg #28

Re: Aquae Grannis

"Then it looks like we will be going to Juliacum. I will do my best Theo when the time comes. Perhaps there is a bit of terrain aside from the river we might take advantage of. Perhaps make one of our own if we can make a few things before the Hun army arrives to fight us."

She nods at Brennus words then watches him go as he seeks the boy he speaks of. Glancing at Theo she speaks to him softly. "We should be careful in case the Huns have any surprises up their sleeves. They haven't been shy about using magic or even demons to aid their cause. If there is time to prepare perhaps you can fortify the line you wish to hold. Dwarves are renowned for such skill in both defense and offensive actions."
Ben
GM, 12234 posts
The Guy in Charge Here
Tue 12 Nov 2013
at 03:48
  • msg #29

Re: Aquae Grannis

Brennus returns with Orreg.  He's a tough looking teenage boy in ragged clothes, who looks like he's had a very hard life.  For a while he's silent- all this company seems to intimidate him.  Then, with prodding from Brennus, he starts telling what he knows of the town of Juliacum.

It isn't alot, as he was there only once, when the prisoners were moved.

Theoderic asks about "prisoners."

"Elves and Humans and some Fey creatures I think," the boy says.  "They were here for some ceremonies the Huns had, but the Elves were looking to rescue them, so they moved them further away, to Juliacum."

According to Orreg, there are also Humans in Juliacum, and not only slaves and prisoners- some are working for the Huns.  There's a whole street they call Blackguard Court in the middle of the town, and there are a few Humans working for the Huns in charge, and the tavern and shops in the street are all there just for them.

He has a little help from others with more historical knowledge, like Brennus, who can fill in historical gaps.

Juliacum is built on both sides of the Ruhr River, and the bridge is the most important feature of the town.  Over centuries, businesses tried to set up as close as possible to the bridge, to maximize exposure.  Eventually they built right up onto the bridge, and the bridge was engulfed, so that when you go into the town, you can't even see the river from the bridge.  But the shops are not there now- the bridge is home to some Orcs, that's all.

On the west bank is the "New Fort", large and surrounded by a moat.  An old temple is there.  On the east bank , there are two roads that come off to the north and then meet, forming a big triangle.  At the top (North end) of that triangle is the gate to the Blackguard Court.  On the far side of the Blackguard Court, the northeast corner of the town, is the Old Fort.

Orreg remembers that the prisoners were off loaded in the Blackguard Court, and brought to the Old Fort, marched down the street and teased and tortured and mocked by the Blackguards.

The Blackguards also had a Troll, a big creature with dirty knobby looking skin and big horns on its head.

(No one has ever seen a troll with horns on its head.  And Orreg never saw a Troll before.  But he does not know what else to call this.)

There are at least three times as many people there as here, he says, but a lot of Orcs, too.  He has no idea of how many.  A lot.


Bridge is sort of like this:

 
Aelasuria Soulwater
player, 1435 posts
Tue 12 Nov 2013
at 04:23
  • msg #30

Re: Aquae Grannis

"Hmm Theo are you thinking about a traditional siege? I had thought we might be able to dig a few trenches fortify outside and get them to come to you at a battle ground of your choice. On the other hand we could try to infiltrate the city strike them from within. Maybe get the people and prisoners to fight alongside us."

She considers possibilities seeing what Theo thinks and might have in mind in this particular case. Outside the city she could use more destructive spells freely. On the other hand that left the prisoners on the inside to their own devices. "The fact that they have human support and even a blackguard court could make things more difficult. We can't simply allow any human from inside that city to casually approach you or anyone else they might wish to try to capture or assassinate. We would need to protect our clerics, wizards, and others. Cirrus should avoid the front lines and possibly stay close to me or perhaps our healers since she can carry needed things and assist the wounded."

Pausing she considers the thing that supposedly is a troll. "I am not so sure it's a troll. Likely it's another Demon that will have to be dealt with. Likely it's going to be very important to take it down early in the battle. Plus any orc spell casters and obvious leaders. Blackguards could be a problem too so if anyone is obviously a blackguard take them down or capture them I think. We certainly could use fresh information on what the Hun Emperor might be planning. Theo have you considered the possibility of siege weapons?"

OOC: Even if we don't have clerics which most armies would have. We have to have some sort of triage units for the wounded.
Sign In