Nekoik sat on the oceanside plains below Aleni Amano, its early evening lights twinkling like a fairy kingdom slowly awaking.
And it reminded him of the tales his mother used to tell him, about the fae folk, and the magic of this world.

Ancalia had been beautiful once, and magical.   Once?  It was less than a decade ago that Aleni could remember running through the green pastures of his homelands, and visiting the mighty, magical forests with his parents ... always looking for the wonders that hid just outside his line of sight.

This all ended five summers ago. Through some unfathomable collapse of the celestial engines, nine dire Night Roads erupted throughout the country.
And their idyllic world was shattered; the Surcessant Order scrabbled to arrest the threats that poured forth, to protect the people and heal the land.
It wasn't just their idyllic world that was shattered, it was the Order ... the dreams, the security, the peace.

As he stood on this cold, evening hillock, looking down at Nekiok, Aleni knew that around that fairy scene of twinkling lights stood the best make-shift walls that could be built ... and on those walls, stood the ever vigilant knights of the Surcessant Order, as always.


And yet, even from this distance, he thought he could hear the sounds of music.



Please, tell us why Aleni has come to Nekoik?  Is he returning home, or is this his first time here perhaps?
And what does he know/think the music symbolises?
Is he alone out here, on the brink of civilisation on this cold night?  or is he accompanied?

Aleni exhaled, his chilled breath wafting about him in an vaporous cloud. He looked down at his charge, the humble township of Nekiok. Perhaps once it might have been a prosperous fishing locale or a major port for maritime trade. Now it was simply a quasi-fortress city where survivors could huddle behind the protection of the order's knights while they awaited the rare return of ships that would harbor refugees southward to Rakita and Toba; for a fee.

Slowly he moved out, light no longer his ally and fearing the creatures that might awaken to pray upon the unguarded and ill-prepared. In name he was also a knight of the Surcessant Order but in reality he had eschewed much of the vestments and regalia befitting his station and served nigh exclusively as a healer. He had been charged to lend aid to the town as the winter had brought with it fever and great ailments. Combined with vermin and spoilage in the half-emptied silos and graineries Nekiok was worse for wear.

Hopefully the gifts he had been bestowed through providence of the One will be of service to those in need.

--

Trudging along the mud-laden road he was surprised to hear music coming from the cities direction. It was uplifting and concerning. The people of Ancalia had little to celebrate in these times, often bereft with illness, hunger, and fear. There were also more practical concerns of drawing unwarranted attention from misbegotten creatures and malcontents. Not all places were so defensible as Nekiok and even among those that did not many were staffed with those capable of holding the defense.

When he reached the gates he called up to the gatehouse.

"Sir Aleni Amano, Knight of the Surcessant Order. I've been charged by decree of Knight Commander Amanuel to lend aid to the town of Nekiok."

His arrival watched, even at this time of night, from afar, Aleni was swiftly joined by Sir Jerrim Minbane, who introduced himself as “Knight Seneschal of this place”.
Minbane, as expected, treated Aleni with polite suspicion, grilling him with many questions and a good look over, before admitting Aleni to the city.

But it was a matter of course, and Minbane quickly assensed Aleni’s truth.
“So the Knight Commander has sent us another set of hands, eh?” he said happily, leading Aleni in through the gates with a hearty slap on the shoulder.  “And Merciful Hands at that!   Thank the One; you’ll be kept busy here, my friend.
The unholy hoarded never leave us alone for long”.

Once within, Aleni was led to a barracks within sight of the gate; and noticed the festivities going on in the city.
“Tonight we celebrate the Feast of St Targon”, Minbane explained, seeing Aleni’s curiosity, “and we annoint the three children whom we have been blessed with this year”.
His mood turned a little somber then, “We don’t have a lot to celebrate, of course”, knowing that Aleni must know that already, “but we do our best.

And children are ... precious”.    Since the opening of the Night Roads, with the illness and creatures they brought forward, many communities had experienced a decrease in fertility ... and those children that came, often died within the years.
Priests of a The One had become diligent in blessing what children came.


Soon enough, temporary quarters were found for Aleni, and he was being invited to attend and enjoy the festivities; although Minbane was require back at the gate, of course, “Duty calls, eh.
Enjoy yourself tonight, my friend.   Your duty will begin soon enough”
This message was last edited by the player at 17:00, Sat 14 Dec 2019.

Aleni responded to the Seneschal's questions as a matter of course. He had been told that he would be questioned but the righteous had no fear of such questionings. He was sent here lawfully to enact the will of the knight commander and do as he was charged to do by the One and the Surcessant Order.

When it was explained what was transpiring Aleni could not help but smile, albeit only slightly.

"Three children you say? It truly is a time of celebration."

St. Targon was a patron of children, among other things. It was not uncommon to beseech their spirit in an effort to garner blessings from the One. That said their prayers had been answered to an extent. Aleni moved to the festival grounds, taking in all around him. The One was moving in this place and it moved within him.

He felt his power, his own anointings, calling out to him. And he answered.

Aleni commits Effort for the day to use Ender of Plagues.

For sure I will write this place up; but it’ll take a few days before that happens.  Bear with me, friend, and your prayers shall be answered.   ;-p


As Aleni moved among the crowds, he felt the presence of The One.
It was in them: the people.   Disputes the horror and apparent hopelessness of the world as it now was, these people (at least tonight) found joy and love among, and within, themselves.

The One’s messenger and saint of children was with them; Aleni could feel him.    Aleni felt Targon alive within him; the Word of Childbirth resplendent in his veins and his heart.
Yet, St Targon wasn’t the only presence that stirred with Aleni tonight.    St Xantosa, patron saint of healers, also.
And Aleni channeller the latter’s Power now, cleansing the city of all bodily impurities.  Washing away disease and sickness with impunity.

And at that moment, Aleni became aware of ... something ... in this city.   Something in these walls, that was adding grief to these peoples lives; something designed for bringing sickness among them.
It was impotent to the Powers that Aleni held, and he knew that he could undo the impurity ... if he could locate the locus, the source, of this Pestilence.
(but I’m going to make you find it, first.    Give me a Wisdom check, please; to help me work out what initial clues I’ll give you)

As he moved among the crowd, Aleni was greeting by strangers, all happy to have him among them.  Offering him food, honeyed water, and small handmade gifts.  Even the crippled and blind we smiling tonight; as children of many ages ran screaming happily through the legs of the masses.


I don’t know if you like the idea of Aleni being aligned with The One, and the Saints, on a cenceptual level.
If it’s not something you like, just say so, and we’ll say no more about it
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:21, Tue 10 Sept 2019.

Aleni was disturbed by the presence of some fell magic or force within the town. He had hoped that such things had not yet gripped Nekiok but it had always been wishful thinking. Still he decided that he would not let his spirits be dampened and moved about the crowd, laying his hands on the citizens and accepting their alms with as much grace as he could muster. When he encountered the lame, blind, or deformed he prayed over them while using Flesh Made True. When he was finished he spoke softly to each of them "go forward and prosper".

He was liberal with his Gifts, feeling that the people of Nekiok had earned his dutiful attendance. If he could lay to rest their physical grievances then he would.

As the evening progressed, and the night drew deeper, Aleni walked among the people of Nekoik.
Their festivities were a mixture of forced joy, and rebellion against the sorrow that plagued the city.  But their hearts were in this: and everyone was attempting to make the most of this night of nights; giving it their all in celebration of their newborn, and of the Saints they worshipped here, as well as The One.

And The One blessed the people for their dedication and effort: for The One had sent Aleni among the proverbial unwashed masses.
Aleni's divine edict had now lifted from this city the sickness and disease that had plagued the place; and as he wandered through the throbbing mobs of townfolk, miracles of healing fell upon the folk.  The blind could see ... whether again, or for the first time ever.
The maimed and mutilated, be it from circumstance or monster, found their bodies returned to its functioning whole.   Even those with birth defects were not just made whole, but blessed with bodies that they never thought possible for themselves.

For truly, the Saints and The One smiled upon them ...
And they noticed.  How could they not.  They noticed, and rejoiced ... their forced joy turning to true, uncomprehending yet uncompromising delight.
Little did they know that the emissary of The One, who brought this healing bounty to their lives, walked quietly among them.


And even as he did, Aleni could sense that 'source of pestilence'.   The cleansing that he'd sent throughout the city was complete ... but as the night progressed, he could sense again that the source was ever so slowly, already, beginning to assert its grief back upon the people.
It was a mild thing, for the sickness it brought was slow to take hold.   It would take weeks, maybe months, before it could reinfect the city to the level that Aleni had senses earlier.  But it was ... insidious.


I will work on the Faction description/statistics for Nekoik soon, I promise.

Aleni rejoiced with the people as they were healed and made whole. The righteous shall inherit the blessings of The One. They had not yet been abandoned, nor forsaken. His presence was evidence of that, his very life was evidence of the benevolence of the One.

Sadly, it seemed, that his purpose was not yet done with simple healing. No there was a fell power within the city that would see the One's blessings undermined if not dealt with. Aleni allowed the festival to progress, keeping to his own for its duration and retiring when it finally came to be. As a part of his order's agreement he would rendered dutiful service on the morrow in exchange for housing; likely tending to the hungry.

It was early hours of the morning before Aleni got to bed ... and he lay there for some time* tense with the knowledge that he wasn't going to get much sleep before the sun rose.
But, eventually, he drifted off to sleep ... dreaming of golden beaches, and a huge pelican who delivered some trees, before the grass caught on fire and everyone cooked turnips and talked about the new princess.
                                            * as we all do in these situations, eh

He was woken by shouts and movements as the city came alive, and the Order's finest could be heard training in the courtyard outside.
It was later the Aleni expected: and he was surprised that he'd slept through the dawnrise.

The door to his room (he'd been given a private place for the night) was still closed, though, so either nobody wanted him, nobody remembered him, or orders had been given to let him sleep.   Likely the latter.


I'll let you lead the way into this next day.
Tell me what you'd like Aleni to hope to accomplish

Awaking from his unorthodox dream he rose and began to ready himself for the day. Pouring water into his wash basin he freshened himself and donned his robes. Taking his staff in hand after offering a morning prayer of thanks to the One he exited his humble dwelling. About him his brother and sister knights were busying themselves and he felt as though his time to do the same was upon him.

Moving out into the town proper he moved to inspect a few locales. The first was the well, the next the granary, then the storehouses, and finally any storage or root cellars. He took inventory to the best of his ability at each location, trying to understand the situation the town was in more thoroughly. As he worked he also looked to the townspeople. Were they feed well or were they hungry? What quality were their clothes and shoes? For that matter of their homes and businesses?

As Aleni wandered the city, it felt familiar to him.    Not the specifics of this individual city, but it was like so many others in Ancalia; a struggling city, a refuge against the atrocities that had come into his world several years ago, and broken their nation’s proverbial body.
But like any human, or group thereof, it hadn’t broken their spirit ... and this morning, it was ‘business as usual’.

The ‘unwashed masses’ had returned from their festive mood, and now scurried about the city in a bleary, tired haze, about their many duties and occupations: crafting, cleaning, farming, building.

Aleni was beginning to familiarising himself with the layout of this individual outpost of humanity, when a messenger from the barracks found him:  a scout troop was being sent out, this morning, to check on some ‘movements’ observed during the early hours of the morning in the openlands.
Sir Minbane was offering Aleni the opportunity to join the scouts.

Aleni moved about the city and gathered what information he could about the peoples there. The city, like many others, was struggling to survive even if the morale of the people within no longer reflected that. Food was sparse but narrowly sufficient to keep people from the brink of starvation, water plentiful enough to meet the need but not perfectly clean nor abundant enough not to ration. Seamstresses and tailors seemed to be all but gone as public ware degraded into a steady collection of patchwork cloth. Even the cordwainers were missed as boots and shoes gradually wore down and were salvaged into crude wooden sandals and foot wraps.

They were greatly in need of help but perhaps their need lay in greater concerns than simply mortal ones. When his superior called for him to join the scouts he agreed and moved to meet with them. Rallying at the barracks he waited further instruction as he prepared himself for the events to come.

Aleni prepared for this outing, outfitting himself from the quartermaster with the bridgandine and spear, and a relevant travel pack.

Meanwhile, Sir Minbane issued orders and vocally prepared the unit.
He place the entire unit under the command of Sir Amano; ensuring that the scouts understood that Aleni needed their geographic support and advice, but that the authority and decision making rested with Sir Amano.
          The unit counts as a 'small mob' of trained soldiers


Soon enough, on horseback, the unit moved out.   In the north, storm clouds threatened to sweep in and disturb the otherwise pristine afternoon.

As they rode, the lead scout, Sir Terrethaine explained that movement had been noticed out in the open lands north of Nekoik ... likely a raiding party of orcs from the nearby Night Road.
The Order's understanding at this time was that this Night Road led to, possibly, a realm of humanoid beings that the Order had titled 'orcs'.  The denizens of that realm often sent parties into this world to steal and scavenge supplies (which unfortunately included humans).

The movement last night had fleetingly been glimpsed Travelling westbound, towards the many villages that bordered the massive forests in that direction.

It was rare for Aleni to have formal command of soldiers, especially given his stronger inclination towards healing rather than martial combat or leadership. Still he was a trained knight of the order and scion of a noble house, albeit a minor one.

"Form up men and remember we're on a scouting mission, not a search and destroy. If we encounter enemy resistance we'll fall back and report to Sir Minbane so we can mount a proper offensive. I need eyes on any fortifications or inways the Orcs have set up; stay sharp out there."

As the advanced towards their target Aleni reflected on the Orcs themselves. When the Cataclysm first began only the most foul of creatures came through the Night Roads. Those fell beasts and monsters still plagued Ancallia but now, in the latter days of their tribulation, more cunning and complex foes had arrived. A part of Aleni wished they could have a peaceful resolution with the Orcs, perhaps even convert them to the truth of the One but he knew that to be a fools errand. There is no middle-ground for slavers and maneaters.

The unit moved swiftly across the plains to the north of Nekoik; and by afternoon, it was following the sun towards the far-seen forests in the west.

“Come evening, sir,” explained Sir Esteirre, riding beside Aleni, “we’ll either need to settle in for the night, or push on.
If we do the former, there are safe cabins that I can lead us to.  Well hidden, and stocked.  And if they remain that way, we’ve somewhere to rest the night.
If we push on, we’ll reach the first of the villages about halfway between dusk and midnight.   We’ll have the night to hide our arrival, but we’ll be tired.    ... and if the village is unmolested, we can find sanctuary there for the night”.

The decision rode on Aleni’s shoulder’s, of course.


Small Mob of experienced knights
AC: 5
Hit Dice: 14
Morale: 9
Attack: +3
Move: 30’ run
Save: 15+
Damage: 1d8 average weapon
Effort: 1
A scout unit of the Surcessant Order, the unit is a small one, but all the members are trained knights.
~ They have the Overwhelm ability: once per turn, overwhelm a single foe they are engaged with, rolling automatic 1d6 damage unless the target makes a Hardiness Save.

Aleni considered his options for a moment and then made his decision.

"We should take shelter for the night. We might be able to reach the village if we traveled under cover of night but if we suffer loses now we will not be able to help any of the villagers."

There was also the possibility that they would die tonight and this would be the only opportunity to intercede properly. Still Aleni would live on hope rather than fear. The One would protect them until help arrived.


---

Setting up in the cabins, Aleni ordered the other knights to pray with him. They called upon the power of the One to intercede in their mission, to guide their hand, and provide for them so that they might provide for others. As he prayed he felt the power of the One welling up inside him once more and manifesting in the world.

Commit Effort to Ever-Sufficient Provenance

The cabins were small but functional: four in total, and that was just enough to house the dozen people present.

The Knights of the Order were glad for the rest; and although some might have preferred to have pushed on, all respected the senior Knight among them, and his decision to rest.
The all joined the prayers, some taking knee, others not.  But all were dedicated to their God.

It was, though, to their great surprise when they finished their prayers to find such abundant provisions suddenly apparent within and around the cabins.  Blankets, wood, groceries ... as well as wetstones and oils to tend their weapons and gear, and personal hygiene devices.  The pillows and mattresses were particularly comfortable.

Each and every one of them had spent nights at these (and other such) cabins in the past, but never with such provisions.
In fact, they knew for a fact that such had not existed prior to their prayers.
And they're exclamations and shock were startling.  Many few once again to knee, and prayed again, more fervently than prior, to the power and compassion of The One.

The miracle was unprecedented, and truly a sign that this mission was blessed ... as was its leader.  For was it not Sir Amano who'd led them to this place of safety, and had lead them in the prayers that had brought The One's attention upon them.

Aleni felt the spirits of his comrades sour ... and the rest of this night was spent in good great joy.   His knight's spoke regularly in casual tones of the miracle before them, and looked upon Sir Amano with great respect.
           For the remainder of this adventure, this group's Moral is one better than normal.


Come the morning, the scout unit was well rested, and ready to ride.  Each smiled more than usual, and seemed eager now to serve The One, the Order, and Aleni.

And so it was that they rode out.  And by mid morning crested the hills that gave them the first view of the villages below.

The place looked ... trashed.  Even from this distance.
Building were broken, and small fires and smoking ruins remained.

It didn't look good.  However, the news was not all bad.   While this was Aleni's first outing here, it was not so for some of those present.  And very soon, they were able to identify the tell-tale, subtle signs that the villages had left in their environment about the village.

They had noticed the advancing orc army early enough to have evacuated into the hills ... and if the signage indicated true, were hiding in pre-arranged and prepared locations.

"Sir," Terrethaine said, "In theory, they should be safe.  But they will be scared, and likely hoping that a unit such as ours will come for them ... to escort them to safety.
But if we do that, we'll not catch up with the orc army".

The trail the orcish invaders had carved through through he grassy hills, and now into yonder forest, wasn't a hard one to follow, even from this distance.  But following them would mean leaving the disenfranchised villagers to fend for themselves.

Aleni was overjoyed that his prayers had garnered a response from the One. He knew, intellectually, that the One had bestowed him with Gifts which he could call upon at-will but he felt it necessary to be moved in the spirit before he utilized such potent gifts. These knights were loyal servants of the One and of the Order. They deserved such comforts, especially in the face of such disaster.

Setting out from the cabin Aleni retracted his divine will and allowed the provisions to pass into nothingness once more. He then moved out with the rest of his unit to the village.

---

His heart broke at the sight of the ruined village, a single tear escaping him before he was able to reassert his will. Luckily all was not lost. The villagers had successfully escaped to a nearby cave system and avoided great casualties.

"The Order's primary mission to ensure the safety of our people. We will secure the villagers and see to their wounds. We'll send a runner back to Nekoi to report on the enemies current heading. Have Sir Minbane dispatch a unit of scouts as quickly as possible to track them. We will ensure that a base camp is established here to meet them."

"Let's move out men."

Aleni approached the cave, dismounting from his horse as he neared. He brought his hands up in a sign of peace.

"I am Sir Aleni Amano, Knight of the Surcessant Order. We've come to help. Are their wounded among you?"

Assuming that the villagers were indeed in the cave he moved to heal the most injured of them while the others of his group tended to those who were less grievously hurt.


While he worked he issued commands.

"Those of you who are unharmed please prepare a camp around the cave. All you need has been provided by the One but travel carefully for our enemies shall give us no quarter."

By nightfall, the cave complex into which the villagers had fallen back to had become, in a significant way, a new Surcessant outpost.

Morale and spirits were escalated and bouyed by the swift arrival of the Order; as the villagers had no way of knowing how long they’d be in danger.  Their ‘cavalry’ arriving the very next morning was, to many of them, a miracle.
Yet, it wasn’t the only miracle. For truly, and again, the prayers that the knightly order partook garnered the attention and favour of The One, as abundant supplied, equipment and food manifested by, apparently, the will of the one true creator.

As Sir Amano tended to the sick, and wounded, great health and blessing flower forth from his presence ... and by nightfall, stories of the previous night’s abundance were being whispered and shared.
The people were beginning to look towards Aleni with great respect and awe.  The sussurrus that ripples through the village of folk began to include words such as ‘saint’ and ‘avatar’.


With such bouyancy and health came a resurgence of will and dedication; and it seemed that the village threw themselves into the work and directions that Aleni had given them.
Minor, yet effective, fortifications and defences were already in place by nightfall.
Crude but effective living arrangements, and sheltering improvements, were created to make life easier; and food had been prepared, beyond simple broths and dampers.


By nightfall, Aleni had turned this ragtag sanctuary of scared and unprepared folk into a conceivable steading, from which further operations might stem ... and this small outpost of knights and civilians might protect themselves should they come under any form of attack.


And that night, as the perimeter stood guarded, the villagers gathered in the most communal place to eat, and relax.
And from the gathering came a request of Sir Amano, “Tell us of The One” they asked ... and Aleni found himself the centre of attention, the focus of every nearby eye and ear.
No, I don’t require you to post a sermon, unless you wish to.   But please do include in your next post Aleni’s reaction to this ... with or without some roleplay of it.


Eventually, though, the day’s activities fell into a night of sleep.
The Knights of Surcessant kept watch over their charges.
And by morning, Aleni knew he needed a plan for ‘what next’.

Aleni labored through the day and into the early hours of the night. All who present were attended to and the labors of the villagers brought about the appropriate accommodations to survive the night and hopefully into the near future. That, however, was the providence of The One.

Still when he looked upon his labors and those around him he knew that his work was blessed.

Then came the time to minister to the peoples souls. Aleni found the question to be a good sign. One that reflected how the knights had removed the burdens of flesh and the material from their minds so that they could reflect on their spiritual well-being.

"Of course." he said pleasantly. He then looked up to the sky as if focusing on something distant.

"Let's start at the beginning."

He then began a retelling, to the best of his abilities, of the creation of the heavens and earth. Of the birth of mortal men and women and of their corruption into sin by the machinations of demonic forces. Finally, he spoke of the subsequent prophets and saints, those selected by the One to inherit their blessings and exact their will."


---

Morning came as he broke his fast with his men he contemplated what their next steps should be. The Night Road that allowed the Orcs to enter this land must have a mechanism that they could exploit to close it. That said he wasn't skilled into those magics nor knew of anyone who might be more adept at such tasks.

Instead he'd have to lean on his strengths.

"We will see what the scouts report about the Orc's movements but I believe that the Order needs a firmer presence in these lands, a bulwark for those refugees who are fleeing south thru Nekoik. I believe that we've come upon this village with purpose and suggest that we make a forward operating base here. Regular operations in the area should deter Orc attacks and give us time to devise a more permanent solution."

It was, indeed, a noble plan: to set up a firmer presence in these lands, a bulwark for those refugees who are fleeing south ... to set up regular operations in the area should deter Orc attacks.
But the fact was, in the last five years since the Night Roads opened (not just this one), the Surcessant Order had been decimated along with the rest of the land.  The Order was, after all, the first line of defence against the 'darkness' they threw forth ... and so many knights had died defending the people.

The Order was, in a very real way, the remnants of what it once was.
If they had the manpower and resources to set up an outpost such as Aleni envisages, they would certainly have already done so.


On this very morning, looking out over the forests that wash out from this cave complex, Aleni has with him eleven of the very limited knights that Nekoik needs.
For sure, scouting groups like this rode out from Nekoik regularly (or, as regularly as possible) to protect the people, but if Aleni decides to garrison this dozen (including himself) here, then it will weaken Nekoik by an equal amount.
Sir Minbane's orders had been to scout that orc army, and find out what it was doing.   The orders certainly left Aleni a lot of flexibility in how he would do that: and, for now, he was the defined leader of this scout unit.
Not trying to be a prick, but putting hard decisions in your path.  Right now, Minbane is the superior officer in Nekoik, but this storyline is about Aleni Amano: and maybe he will set up an outpost here, or maybe he'll become the superior officer in Nekoik, or ...

This morning, Aleni had several choices between which to allocate his resources.   He could further fortify this location.  He could send some/all of his scout unit to continue tracking the orc army.  He could sent riders back to Nekoik to keep Minbane informed of the situation.
With him are 11 Knights of the Surcessant Order; and a 'large mob' of villagers.

But these are choices for this morning ... as well as goals Aleni might have for the future here.

As Aleni proposed his plan his fellow knights had a mixture of expressions. One steward young knight, Sir Ganulan spoke the minds of his fellows.

"Sir Amano. You are truly of righteous mind but even your blessings cannot allow us to make many where there are few. Our forces will simply not extend far enough to establish such an outpost."

He was wounded by Ganulan's words but he knew them in heart to be true. He grimaced as he reflected for a moment.

"Forgive me. You are right. I was rash in my assessment and allowed my desires to outstrip my better judgement. We must do with what the One has seen fit to give us."

He then reconsidered his approach.

"We will led these villagers back to Nekoik. It is the only defensible location we have left and we cannot afford to spread our forces thinner. Four of our knights will escort the villagers back while the remainder advance. Have the able-bodied men of the villager take up arms where they can: axes, wooden spears, even hoes will do. The advancing force will ensure that the Orcs do not encircle the group."

And so it was.

The villagers, with the help of the Order, quickly secured what resources and possessions they could easily transport, and by midmorning the small Knghts Escort was leading the villagers off into the west.  It would take them two days (or more) on foot as they were, to reach the safety of Nekoik.  But, hopefully, the larges representation of danger would be behind them ... and being faced by Aleni's unit.

That left Sir Amano with 7 Knights at this command.  Each with stead, and arms.   Sir Terrethaine and Sir Ganulan remained with Sir Amano, as part of this entourage.

The orc army had now a good days lead on them, assuming that it had not stopped itself to plunder or create its own outpost.
But the knights were experienced and dedicated, and they rode hard to catch up.

Come nightfall, however, the horses and and men needed rest; and riding through the forested lands the trail had led them into would be dangerous in such darkness.
With Sir Ganulan's forward eyes, the unit located a high place upon a wooded hillock to camp for the night.
From there, they could see the lights of the orc army in the distance; no more than, perhaps, a few hours good ride.

From this location, they could hide their presence from the orcs ... and be ready to move in the morning.


As the unit ate, and relaxed for the night, discussion arose; several of the unit agreed that it was unusual to see the army moving without plundering.   If they army had been looking for resources and 'food', they'd have spent more time back in the surrounds of that village ... hunting, and scavenging wood, metals and the like from the village itself, as well as searching for the errant survivors.

Yet, they had moved on, swiftly, into the forests.
There was much speculation as to why, but the agreement seemed that the orc army had some other, definite, purpose.

Aleni considered the strangeness of the Orc's movements. They were clearly searching for something rather than their typical raiding. He wasn't sure what was out in there or why the Orcs desired it but he had a feeling he did not want to give it to them.

"I know not what the Orcs seek but we shall do our best to prevent them from obtaining it. We will ride out and see to putting an end to their aggression."

The next morning was very overcast, and the cold wind that swept in from the frigid north did little to bolster any enthusiasm among those present.
But Aleni felt the presence of the dawn; the awakening of a new day by The One, and the renewed Effort that revitalised Aleni's spirit deep within.

Sir Ganulan, who'd been on watch during the night, reported that movement during the early hours had indicated a small unit of orcs down by the banks of yonder river not so long ago ... within the last hour.
It certainly wasn't the full army, and likely a reconnaissance group sent out for some purpose.

Expecting Sir Amano to move on this information, Aleni already noted the other half dozen Knights eating a swift meal as they prepared themselves and their horses to move out.

Aleni listened and grimaced. The time had come.

"Mount up," he said without fanfare or bluster. They moved out and Aleni muttered prayers over the group. He asked for the One's guidance and protection as they sought to guide and protect his people.

Nearing on the reconnaissance team he called for a halt, examining their numbers. If they had the numeric advantage and where not outranged by any Orcish bowmen he would call for a charge. If the odds were not in their favor they would dismount and take them on foot after closing the distance.

The orcs below were currently focused on the task of washing and preparing items and clothing, in the river's waters.
In truth, there were a good dozen or so of them.  They did, indeed, outnumber Aleni's forces; but they were neither expecting attack, or prepared for any intervention in their activities.   Many of them were in the river itself, and not one right now had weapons prepared.

However, a charge would have to be performed down a small rise; the river running through a lower, tree filled valley.
Aleni's people would have to 'charge' carefully; but they were trained knights, and could possible do so with few mishaps.

And a charge would certainly catch the orc unit by surprise ... although only those on the river bank could be attacked initially, until  those with the river came out, or the Knights were willing to enter the river to push their attack (something that would be very dangerous to do on horseback, especially at speed).

Sneaking up on the orcs, though, down the wooded embankment, would be difficult without one of their many number spotting someone approaching.

Aleni considered his options. The trees would prevent a proper ambush and he could not simply allow the Orcs to do as they wished. He did not wish for the deaths of his men but they were knights sworn to protect the people and the Orcs were a known enemy of the people.

"We charge." were his orders as he readied his sword spear and began to press his horse into the motion.

As they moved forward Aleni called upon the blessings within him, manifesting their power as wrath. A corona of brilliant yellow and green energy washed outward to strike against the Orcs.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:37, Mon 04 Nov 2019.

As Sir Amano gave the command, and spurred his horse on down into the small wooded gully, his loyal knights followed suit.
Into the fray, the Surcessant Order did 'Charge!', to face the enemy.  They were outnumbered, but the Knights of the Order were both gallant and well trained ...

Small Mob of experienced knights
AC: 5
Hit Dice: 14
Morale: 9
Attack: +3
Move: 30’ run
Save: 15+
Damage: 1d8 average weapon
Effort: 1
A scout unit of the Surcessant Order, the unit is a small one, but all the members are trained knights.
~ They have the Overwhelm ability: once per turn, overwhelm a single foe they are engaged with, rolling automatic 1d6 damage unless the target makes a Hardiness Save.

    versus ...

Large Mob of orcs
AC: 7
Hit Dice: 24
Morale: 8
Attack: +1
Move: 30’ run
Save: 16+
Damage: 1d8 average weapon
Effort: 1


The 'Charge!' down the gully side was treacherous; with pot-holes and fallen trees among the bracken.
But the Knights had trained for this sort of situation, and navigated the terrain well, as they galloped down upon the unsuspecting enemy below.
     - rolled 2 using 1d6 with rolls of 2.  CHARGE! damage.
Surprisingly, and with The One's grace, only Sir Bolphry's mount tripped upon the decent; the horse loosing its footing and crashing to the ground ungainly, sending Sir Bolphry flying into a nearby tree.  They both fell hard; Sir Bolphry would undoubtedly need swift attention once the battle was fought.

But as he led his troops, Aleni a corona of brilliant yellow and green energy washed outward to strike against the Orcs.
The energy crackled, lancing out like tentacled lightning before the Knight Captain, and struck many of the Orcs below.
The enemy were taken by surprise by this sudden attack, and unprepared, scrambled screaming and shouting, as so many of their number were cut down by the coruscating green-yellow energies that struck.
     As Aleni doesn't have 'Corona of Fury', he'll need to have spent one 'Effort for the day' to create the effect as a Miracle.


As Aleni's steed exited the wooded slope, into the level river bank, he was able to strike out at more of the Orcs ... cutting down another two.

His knights, following closely on his heals, slicing and chopping away at the enemy's ranks ... while some of them simply rode their horses directly into the standing/running orcs for effect.
     - rolled 23 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 13.  Knights attack.
     - rolled 4 using 1d8 with rolls of 4.  Knights damage


Aleni had taken a risk, charging down this embankment: but it had paid off.
The enemy had been caught by surprise, and the Knights had done the orc unit some significant damage before they could rally.
     The Orcs, surprised, cannot retaliate this turn.  But next turn, they fight back!



Surcessant Order is currently at 13HD
Orc Unit is currently at 15HD
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:43, Mon 04 Nov 2019.

Aleni continued his assault, launching strikes into the broken Mob of creatures as his spear struck out them. A wave of green-yellow energy followed his attack, striking out at the weakened foes with his celestial blessings.

Aleni's attack misses but his Fray Die does 1 HD

"Press the attack! Make them regret their aggressions against our lands!" he called out as he fought.

As Sir Amano's knights charged into their midst, cutting down unsuspecting orcs to the left, and to the right, Aleni glowed with Holy Purpose and Power, striking down many an orc with his divine presence ...
- Orcs, rolled 8 using 2d6 with rolls of 5,3.  Morale 9.
... this panicked the orcs. and as a whole, they began to scramble.

However, the order 'Press the attack! Make them regret ....' had barely based the Captain's lips, when thunderous roar rippled through the gorge, echoing off the trees and gorge.

Further off downstream, drawing all attention now, rose a massive orc.
It looked ... different ... from the others: taller, more muscular, and more intelligent.  Moreover, it sported warpaint and much better armour, and hefted now a large axe that was made for killing so much more than vegetation.

"SLAUGHTER THEM, YOU SIMPLETONS" it bellowed ...
- rolled 11 using 2d6+1 with rolls of 6,4.  secondary morale check.
    Giving the +1 to represent how scared the orcs are of this beastly gentleman
... and its intimidating presence of this creature rejuvenated the orc's desire towards the Knights; for they were caught now between two fears, and chose not to face the devil they knew.

Drawing their weapons, and finding their wits, the orcs present turned, and retaliated against the handful of knights that had come among them.
However, the skill and armour of the Knights turned aside the orc's violence ... but their small numbers, and the
- orcs rolled 17 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 11.  Orcs attack.   =  Fail
- knights rolled 12 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 2.  Knights attack.   =  Fail

Meanwhile, the MASSIVE ORC (who, on further scrutiny must certainly have some kind of troll/ogre/giant blood) was striding up the riverbank, casually swinging that massive axe about ... and he was looking, and pointing one large, hairy digit, at Aleni by way of personal challenge.


Surcessant Order is currently at 13HD
Orc Unit is currently at 14HD
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:21, Sat 09 Nov 2019.

Aleni brought his horse around, rearing it up to make himself seem as equally imposing as the massive Orc who had rallied his troops. His voice thundered out.

"For Nekiok!"

He charged, his divine powers lashing out his lesser foes as he trained his spear upon the orc. With each stride the haft of his weapon began to glow brighter, coursing with the divine power of the One and as he neared the beast he let it lance forward. A flying delta of green-yellow power that would wrack the Orc's body with his fury.

Fray on the Mob: 1 HD (Rolled 4)
Commit Effort for Day to replicate Divine Wrath. 2 HD (Rolled 7)

The orcs and the knights continued to clash ...
- rolled 16 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 6.  Knights attack orcs.
- rolled 14 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 8.  orcs attack knights.
... with neither side gaining any appreciable advantage.


Surcessant Order is currently at 13HD
Orc Unit is currently at 11HD

Meanwhile, the massive orc leader came together with Sir Amano.
Orog commander:
AC: 4
Hit Dice: 3
Morale: 6
Attack: +3
Save: 15+
Damage: 1d8 average weapon
Effort: 1

Yet, even before the two met in melee, the lance of Divine Wrath that arced from Sir Amano's outstretched spear tore into the large orc, opening unHealthy wounds across its flesh.

But then, Aleni was within reach of the brutes weapon, and it swung wide and deadly ...
- rolled 20 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 11.  Orog attacks Aleni.
- rolled 8 using 1d8 with rolls of 8.  damage to Aleni.  = 2 HP damage to Aleni
... bringing the mighty war axe down upon Aleni's leg with precision, alacrity and brutality.



Aleni is currently at 9HP
Orc Unit is currently at 1HD

The blow from the Orc's waraxe tore him from his horse and sent him across the wet group of the river bank. He slid but rose all the same, favoring his wounded leg. Brandishing his spear with two hands he trained the spearhead to his foe.

"I am Sir Aleni Amano! Prepare to die!"

With that he charged forward, his steps unsteadied by adrenaline but propelled by the will of the One. He would slay these Orcs and set right his charged domain.

Missed. Rolled a 17.
Unsure if my fray will reach the Mob still but I deal 2 HD if it can (Rolled 6).

The clash of metal against steel, or flesh and fang versus trained soldiers, continued all along the watchtower river bank.

And even as Aleni faced down the greatest threat among them, that correscating green-yellow nervy cracker about him, leaping like vengeful teeth at the lesser opponents about him ... biting into even those orcs behind him.

- knights rolled 29 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 19.  Knights attack Orcs.
- rolled 8 using 1d8 with rolls of 8.  Knights damage to orcs.  = 2HD damage
+ 2HD damage from Aleni’s fray dice.

- Orcs rolled 17 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 11.  Orcs attack knights.

Surcessant Order is currently at 13HD
Orc Unit is currently at 7HD

But ultimately, it was the discipline and metal of the Surcessant Order that was winning this battle, as the mounted and trained Knights were slowly but surely overcoming their bestial opponents.

Meanwhile, the massive orc commander continued its onslaught against Captain Amano; brutal and savage and unrelenting.

This monster was built for war, and would likely have faced, and adaquatelu challenges, the Surcessant unit present by itself.
- rolled 28 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 19.  attack against Aleni.
- rolled 5 using 1d8+2 with rolls of 3.  Damage to Aleni.
It’s strength alone, behind that massive axe ... and this time, the blade caught Aleni across the hip, opening a nasty wound.


Aleni is currently at 7HP
Orog is currently at 1HD
This message was last edited by the player at 21:16, Sun 10 Nov 2019.

Aleni misjudged his footing, overextending himself with his strike. When the Orc parried his blow he exposed his left flank. It was a mistake he would pay dearly for as the blade of the axe sank deeply into his his thigh.

He gritted his teeth, denying the Orc behemoth the satisfaction of his pained screams. Instead he side hopped out of the strike and fell back a few paces. Blood dripped from his wounds, mixing with the mud and water. His mind was briefly clouded by pain but images of the wounded towns people came to back to him and his spirit's redoubled.

Raising his spear once again he pressed against his foe.

Another miss and another 17.
Fray Die does another 2 HD to the Mob. Rolled a 7.

Rallied by the shouts and courage of one particular orc, the enemy troops turned their attention upon a small band of knights that had slightly separated from their fellows, and charged ...
     - rolled 24 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 18.  orcs attack knights.
     - rolled 1 using 1d8 with rolls of 1.  orcs damage knights.
... and although their tactic worked, momentarily overwhelming those few knights caught unaware, the orc's weapons met only armour and leather, and were unable to draw blood.

Meanwhile, the knights fought back valiantly against the unholy creatures ...
     - rolled 13 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 3.  Knights attack orcs.
... but without much luck.

However, the spiralling, spitting energies of The One continued to smote down upon the orcs from Sir Amano, even as he faced their mighty commander.


The orc contingency was whittling away fast, and it was evident now which faction would be victorious in this skirmish.
     Surcessant Order is currently at 13HD
      Orc Unit is currently at 5HD

In the uncertain and slippery footing of the riverbank, Aleni was having difficulty finding a weakness in the mighty orc's defences to exploit.

     - rolled 17 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 8.  Orog attacks Aleni.
Yet, by the grace of The One, the large orc commander's axe sailed wide of its mark this swing.



     Aleni is currently at 7HP
      Orog is currently at 1HD

Aleni continued to press his attack. He pushed forward with shallow but rapid thrusts, hoping to keep his guard high. All the while he let the divine power of the One continue to rip at his enemies, blighting their skin and flesh with disease and rot.

Missed. Rolled 8
2 HD with Fray Die. Rolled an 8

The battle between the orcs and the knights had turned badly against the orcs.
While neither side was ostensibly gaining any proverbial ground in the battle itself ... meanwhile, stroking celestial energies continues to wash over their numbers, cutting them down inevitably.
     - rolled 12 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 2.  Knights attack orcs.
     - rolled 7 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 1.  Orcs attack Knights
               ... and I think a roll of a 'natural 1' justifies the next morale check:
     - rolled 5 using 2d6-1 with rolls of 5,1.  morale check.

And so it was that the will of the remaining orcs shattered at that moment.
They didn't so much as 'drop their weapons and run for the hills', but they might as well have.  With screams of 'run away, run awaaay' each orc turned tail* and took off into the nearby woodlands.


      Surcessant Order is currently at 13HD ... having taken no damage at all from the orcs.
      All remaining 3HD of Orcs are scarpering

* yes, they do indeed have tails ... little piggy ones, in fact

The sudden screaming behind Aleni drew his attention for a vital moment, distracting him from the true threat before him, and it cost him ...
     - rolled 20 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 11.  Orog attacks Aleni.
     - rolled 7 using 1d8+2 with rolls of 5.  damage to Aleni.   = 2 more damage
... as the massive orc commander brought his massive orc axe down upon Aleni's shoulder, cutting deep into the armour there.

It screamed in rage as it did so ... maybe as some form of brutal, bloodthirsty warcry,   or perhaps in anger as seeing its troops scattering into the proverbial winds.

And already, rather than chase fleeing targets into uncertain terrain, the Knights of the Surcessant Order were turning their attention, and horse, to consolidate their attacks against the orc leader.


     Aleni is currently at 5HP
      Orog is currently at 1HD
      Surcessant Order is currently at 13HD
          ... feel free to roll for Aleni's knights, as they Overwhelm this last remaining target
This message was last edited by the player at 00:38, Tue 12 Nov 2019.

Aleni's thrusts were deflected with casual ease as the Orc leveraged his superior strength, reach, and footing to turn aside the paltry man's attacks. Luckily for Aleni the enemy's weapon was large and slow, easy enough to dodge so long as he stayed on the defensive. Aleni's tactic was simple then. He would harass his foe into providing him with an opening. Still when a cry of pain and rushing footsteps rang out behind him he lost focus and the axe weaved through the air to capitalize on his failing.

Aleni returned to the fight, only quickly enough to erect a poor overhead defense. The axe bit through his armor and into his shoulder, blood issuing forth in a spray as he was briefly brought to his knee by the impact. Rolling out of the strike he was forced to wield his spear in one hand, the other limp and lifeless as blood began to flow.

If it's all the same to you I'll be treating the spear as a 1d6 weapon to reflect having to wield it an unorthodox fashion.

But the glory of the One had not left him and he was still prepared to fight. Especially now as his knights rallied to him, their weapons flashing forward and striking at the creature. He too rose and unsteadily attacked his foe.

Overwhelm. 0 HD. Rolled a 1
Aleni's Attack. 0 HD. Rolled a 15.

The orc commander growled and screamed in rage, as he found himself then surrounded by trained men on horse, with glistening armour and glinting weapons.

     - rolled 16 using 1d20 with rolls of 16.  1-10 attack Aleni, 11-20 attack knights.
Using his own spinning momentum, the massive orc spun, swinging his massive axe at the unit of knights that came thundering down upon him ...
     - rolled 20 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 11.  Orog attacks knights.
      - rolled 2 using 1d8 with rolls of 2.  damage to knights.
... catching one of Aleni's comrades square in the chest, and sending him reeling from his mount, bleeding.


     Aleni is currently at 5HP
      Orog is currently at 1HD
      Surcessant Order is currently at 11HD
This message was last edited by the player at 21:35, Thu 14 Nov 2019.

Aleni brought his weapon up in defiance. With a short run on his wounded and pained leg he made a wipe overhead swing at the Orc. It stepped to the size with a sneer at the weapon missed him by inches. But it was Aleni would would get the last laugh. His men ran the beast through, weapons buried to their hilts. They were a shuttering grunt and then a clatter of iron before the Orc commander fell to the ground lifeless.

Aleni Amano rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4.  Overwhelm. 1 HD
Aleni Amano rolled 16 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 12.  Attack. Missed

Aleni too fell to the ground, his body a graceless heap of limbs that tumbled into the mud and murk. He was bleeding from several places but was alive. Dredging his head out the mud he called out to his men.

"Sir Bolphry! Sir Aleric! Are they still with us?"

Within moments, Sir Ganulan was at Aleni's side, rolling him over carefully to check his wounds.
"Others are tending to Sirs Bolphry and Aleric, sir.

Bolphry should be alright, sir, though will need care.   Aleric, though ..." his words hung in the air, and drifted off with the wind.
"We just need to get your wounds cleaned, sir, and bound against infection".

And so it was that several knights added Ganulan to help Aleni to his feet.
They wanted to lead him to the water, to wash his wounds away from the muck and dirt.

Along the way, Aleni became aware that several knights had a couple of wounded orcs bailed up and contained nearby ... orcs who'd been unable to run away with their fellows.

Aleni grimaced but nodded in understanding.

"Be sure to collect his weapon. A honorable knight deserves his weapon."

He allowed his men to carry him to the water and clean his wounds. He did not resist them and instead focused his full intention on the captured Orcs. Once he was cleaned and they were performing whatever field dressing they would he spoke.

"We will retreat before the survivors can rally their forces. We've dealt a blow to them today and I would see us exit the field victorious. We will take the prisoners with us although I cannot say as to what we shall do with them."

Aleni would have preferred they died or fled. Prisoners were an unsavory reality of wartime. He was not a coldblooded murderer and could not in good conscious kill a being that was already defeated. Still what were they to do with the Orcs? Keep them indefinitely in prison? Return them to their warmasters? Perhaps in the future they might be traded for human lives; he could hope for such utility.

It took some time to resolve the scene by the riverbank:  to tend to the wounded, and respectfully prepare to transport the dead, secure the prisoners.
Aleni’s knights worked admirably, and efficiently.

Along the way, it became apparent that the captured orcs spoke a language unintelligible, and so communication came down to simple non-linguistics.    While antagonistic and largely uncooperative, they didn’t resort to violence again.


And so it was that his entourage returned to their temporary stronghold in the hills as dusk came upon them.
The ‘village’ was very glad to see them;  the thought of the added protection, and the exciting stories that were told of the day’s events.
Dinner had been prepared; and the knight’s were hungry from their day of adventure.   The prisoners were better secured.

And as the small community ate, they gathered around to hear not only tales from the day, but to hear from Captain Amano about The One.


Morning came without incident.   And with the sun’s warmth and light, Aleni found himself rejuvenated.   The night of rest had been peaceful and filled with dreams that opened his consciousness to an ever expanding connection with divinity and power.



Id like to see you narrate the events of that morning.   I know you intend to perform quote the miracle, and I’d like to see that roleplayed into the narrative, as you see fit.
Also, I’d like to see the ‘new Fact’ that you are creating within the Knightly Order narrated into the story, please

Aleni gave a speech upon return to the village.

"Today we have championed against the foes of the One. We have brought them low and broken their forces. Tonight they sulk back into the night, defeated, and us victorious!"

He held up his spear triumphantly, basking in the rallying calls of his fellow knights and the cheers of the townspeople. He allowed them to come a natural pause before calming his voice allowing a somber but hopeful tone to take him.

"But we are not without lost. Sir Aleric, a noble and honorable knight of the order, gave his life in pursuit of the ideals of the One and the protection of Ancallian citizens. His death is a heavy burden to bear but we should harden ourselves to his lost. He would want us to perverse and to know that in his sacrifice was not in vain. Let us pray."

He bowed his head and spoke aloud.

"Oh great and mighty One. We gather in this place to call upon your mercy. Guide our dearly departed into your kingdom so that he made live within your glory. We humbly ask that you watch over us and guide our hands. In your name we pray."

With that he dismissed the crowd and retired for the night. In his sleep he had a dream. One of Sir Aleric standing at the celestial gates. His armor now made of light and gold, his spear a celestial flame. He stood vigilant and waiting but he did not face towards Heaven, nor did he stand among other angelic beings. No he looked upon the world, ever vigilant. A voice called out to Aleni, whispering to him.

Call upon me Chosen of the One. Call upon me so that I might fight again.

Aleni awoke with a start as the sun rose and the power of the One filled him once more. He moved out of his tent, still in a matter of undress. A few of the knights were awake, the night's guard. He called to them.

"Take me to Sir Aleric! The One calls upon me to do his work!"

They were confused initially but moved to comply. He was brought to a small tent and there was the shrouded body of Aleric. His armor removed and his weapon placed by his side. Aleni placed his heads over the man and began to pray fervently. His voice was loud, almost booming, and it drew a crowd that gathered around him.

Light poured out of him and into Aleric. Then he breathed, his bone and flesh righting itself as he rose once again. Color returned to his flesh and he took a few ragged breaths.

"The One has deemed that you shall live again Sir Aleric! Live again you loyal son and protector!"

The crowd fell to their knees and prayed, tears flowing as they witnessed the miracle of resurrection.

Aleni commits two effort to replicate Lifegiver

---

Riding out later that day, the Knights returned to Nekoik. In tow were the villagers and their Orc captives. Upon their arrival Aleni turned the Orcs over to the commander and informed him of the events that had occurred since he sent his runner. He then asked for the commander to gather the knights that were on duty to meet with him for he had further blessings to bestow.


---

When all had gathered, Aleni spoke.

"The One has truly blessed us. I can feel his power moving within me. I can feel him calling to me to wield that power to bless those who serve in his name. We Knight of the Surcessant Order are protectors, healers, and guardians. Trained in the ways of the Merciful Hand and armed to fight against all vile and corrupt threats. As a merciful man I so augment your merciful hands."

He held his hands aloft and allowed light to gather there, forming a small and brilliant star. It rose out of his hand, flowing upward into the sky before erupting into streams of golden power that flowed into all knights within Ancalia.

Aleni spends 2 Dominion to grant Lay on Hands to the Knights of the Surcessant Order.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:57, Mon 09 Dec 2019.

The people did indeed fall to their knees and prayed, tears flowing, as they witnessed the miracle of resurrection.
In the last day, these knights had witness miracles and blessings as never had any seen before.

Through Sir Aleni Amano, truly did The One provide, protect and bless.
And in truth, by the time Aleni led the precession of Surcessant Knights back through the gates of Nekoik, many of those knights were devoted to his service.

Each of them, to some degree, believed in The One;  and in each, their admiration for Aleni either bolstered or challenged that belief.
For some, Aleni stood as a shining example of the true might and love of The One.
But for others, well, it was sometimes hard to believe in something that couldn’t be touched or seen; something of which there was little proof, only faith.
But Sir Amano!   There was a symbol:  a symbol of everything they fought for, died for.  A symbol that could be touched and seen.
A symbol that they could truly worship.

And after blessing every trained Surcessant Knight, before their very eyes ... having felt his power surge within them, after he’d resurrected one of their own ... Aleni looked out over the gathered masses, and saw in the eyes of several Surcessant Knights that their devotion was no longer for The One, but for him.

I wonder how this knowledge will affect Aleni.  That there are some now who worship Aleni, and not Aleni’s god?!


Once this gathering was done, and the masses slowly drifted apart, to attend to their business, great joy radiated through Nekoik.
And Sir Aleni Amano found himself surrounded by joyful well wishers.

If he’d hoped for some private time, some semblance of quiet time to contemplate his own thoughts, he would have to seek it out himself; perhaps create the opportunity.

Aleni looked into the eyes of the people gathered before him and his heart felt heavy. He was a servant of the One, a messenger of divine will on the ruinous world. A sign that the One had not betrayed them as the heretics claimed. Now, however, even some of the most stalwart believers looked upon him a messiah and lord.

He wasn't sure what this meant. He knew, instinctively, that he had received no commandment or instruction to become such a being but at some level he did feel...divine. He was conflicted but now was not the time for such meditations.

"Rejoice and be well. Use your gifts to exalt the One's cause. To bring peace and prosperity to our people once more."

With that he rejoined the celebrations, shaking people's hands and speaking with them but never remaining over long with any particular group. His heart was light but his mind was focused, perhaps in an effort to distract. He had repulsed the Orcs but they would return. The Night Road that allowed them such easy access to their realm still remained open.

There was also the powerful fetid sickness that he felt within the city, a source of taint and corruption. If Nekiok was to become the true bastion of life and safety he would have to root it out.

The celebration to St Targon had been several days ago;  on that night when Aleni Amano had arrived.   But that was days ago, and the city had returned to the mundane drudgery of ‘business as usual’ by now.

But they’d gathered this morning to witness the return of Sir Amano and his troops, and to hear their tales.   And while such brought great joy to the people, they still had their tasks and jobs to do.
Once this gathering was done, and the masses slowly drifted apart, to attend to their business, Sir Aleni Amano found himself surrounded by joyful well wishers.

Off yonder, near the barracks, Aleni saw Jerrim Minbane speaking with someone of apparent nobility: the two walking off into one of the council rooms.

Remembering the illness that he’d noted upon his arrival, Aleni again set his mind to locating its source.

As he moved through the streets, Aleni spoke with the people, and bore witness to their everyday lives.

The folk of Nekoik were a hearty breed; and cured of their general malaise day’s ago, they were in an upswing of health, happiness and productivity.

The only people who seemed still to be ill were various children running around; little flu merchants they are, they were oblivious to their runny noses as they played happily with their friends.

And as Aleni wandered, watching, he was often accosted by young men who wanted to meet their newest hero, and old folk who wanted to pinch his cheeks in appreciation, and eligible women who saw him for the ‘man he was’ beneath the armour and robes.

Because it was what he noticed these days, Aleni saw the birth defects, the scars and the signs of wounds not quite healed right.

Give me a Wisdom check, please, as you seek for the source of the disease

Aleni saw the subtle changes in defects and scars. Where his power had set them right this foul force sought to undue. He corrected them once more, a subtle exertion of the divine power bestowed him and channeled through a lingering touch or a firm handshake.

He spoke to them then, albeit briefly, and learned of their neighbors and their fairing. Of their friends and kin. He built a web of connections in his mind and placed it over the city. Narrowing down on where the taint was so that he could root it out, burn it out of the heart of Nekiok.

Got a 10 on my wisdom check so I passed this time around.

For clarification
When Aleni arrived days ago, he used Ender of Plagues to clean out and cure the city of all disease and illness.   That is when he sensed a source of disease that existed within the city: which was infecting the city.

He also used Flesh Made True on individuals that he met, which cured them of their physical defects.

However, on that night of celebration, he met (percentage of the populous) only a small number of people.   There are still many, many, many that he has not used ‘Flesh Made True’ upon; and ‘Ender of Plagues’, while a city-wide effect, had no effect on physical defects.

The source of disease that he now seeks hasn’t been ‘recreating’ physical defects that Aleni healed.

Does that make sense?


As Aleni searched, it became apparent that the disease was affecting the children first.
Without 'Ending the Plague' again, Aleni couldn't actually sense the source, but it was the children who were again affected, so common sense suggested that they must somehow be in contact with the source.

Aleni had no problems correcting the defects of Nekoik's citizens: a process that would take some time, but was slowing changing the city for the better.
And as he moved among them, shaking hands and kissing babies, he further developed the sense of community and ownership that had begun within him on that first night that he had arrived.
And the community was quickly coming to own him also ... seeing him not only as one of themselves, but as a guardian and protector ... and a spiritual guide.  For many already, Aleni was a skilled preacher of the One's doctrine: something they valued highly, and sought out in him.

Aleni healed the children and spoke to their parents, asking them where they gathered to play or dwell during the day. He also inquired if their were learned men, or women, who might be instructing the children in their numbers or letters.

His primary goal was to generate a list of potential sources and then to track them down. Of course it would not do to simply run off tonight. No whatever had been in this place still dwelled here and he would root it out come morning.

So he instead continue to heal the people and speak to their spirits. He prayed over them and spoke of the One's doctrine: their infinite love, forgiveness, and the miracles that they worked on their behalf. Both in the world and through mortal agents like himself and the other knights. When the celebration ended he would rest.

By the time Aleni found his way to his bunk that night, he was again exhausted.
Ministering to the people of Nekoik ... their health and their souls ... was a taxing endeavour, but worthwhile.   Aleni was happy with the work he'd achieved tonight, healing and fostering the citizens within these walls.

And along the way, he'd discovered enough about the childrens' play throughout the city, that he had locations he could focus on and investigate with the new day.

Solomayn Peer off the north edge of the ports was a favourite place for children to gather; fishing, and building their own shanty town beneath the jetty's there.

Near the centre of 'old town' was King's Green, the biggest of Nekoik's few remaining city commons; it provided that part of the city with water from the well there, and many tree's still stood on the relatively fertile earth there, in which the children could play in the shade.  Several ramshackle 'tree houses' were constantly in course of repair and renovation by the children.

And of course, the School House on Blakely Boulevard, along the southern wall, was open to the children at all daylight times.  It was a miniature City Hall for the kids.   Classes were held there, when the adults could find time to share their wisdom and knowledge with the children:  though the cities constant need for maintenance and nurture left little time any more for such.


As Aleni ate a meaner bowl of rice and ... well, goop ... before bed, he also heard the rumours and tales abounding throughout the rank and file.   Apparently a nobleman claiming to be from the lands of Fae had arrived in Nekoik.  It was said that he claimed a desire to aid the city, and could summon human beings from thin air.
There was, of course, much suspicion among the troops over such a strange individual ... especially in a refuge city that guarded itself against so many unworldly threats beyond its walls.  Many questioned (quietly) Minbane's decision to allow this figure to remain.

As Aleni ate his dinner he contemplated what location was likely to hold the source of corruption. It was what maintained the core of his attention but when asked his opinion of the stranger and their strange abilities Aleni gave a short but intentional response.

"Sir Minbane has served the people of Nekiok tirelessly and selflessly. We should all place our trust in his judgement and remember that the One calls us to cherish all our neighbors as our own kin. Strange powers or no so long as they wish to help Nekiok and not harm it I shall see that their work is done."

With that he retired for the night.

--

The morning came and Aleni prayed to the One to give him guidance. He felt a tugging on his spirit and elected to travel to the King's Green. If nothing else he could he see if old town might become serviceable again and what labors would be required to restore it.

Near the centre of 'old town' was King's Green, the biggest of Nekoik's few remaining city commons; it provided that part of the city with water from the well there, and many tree's still stood on the relatively fertile earth there, in which the children could play in the shade.  Several ramshackle 'tree houses' were constantly in course of repair and renovation by the children.


As Aleni strolled through old town, it was a stark reminder of the hollowness the city now felt.  Its population had suffered greatly in these last five years.
It wasn't just war, or disease.  It was famine also: the city unable to feed its already failing populous due to an inability to maintain any ongoing farms outside the city walls.   Farmers were attacked and killed; and the knights that watched over the city were too few to provide standing protection for such.   While the lands outside the walls remained fertile, it took seasons to produce any kind of crops.   When an attack came, Minbane's forces would ride out to respond, but by then ...

So most of the cities food was shipped in via the ports and sea-going merchants, from far off lands.  Supplemented by whatever could be encouraged within the walls of Nekoik.  But even that was meagre, as most people were needed for other duties.

Old Town could house ten times its current population, twenty even.
And in its centre (proverbially) was King's Green.  A 'city common' now overrun by five years of mostly untended, uncounted growth.  Thickets of gauze bush rubbed shoulders with old trees and saplings alike.

And the children ran rampant here.  It was the very definition of a 'children's garden': and if it takes a village to raise a child, its was here that the village sent the children to play.
And without adult supervision, play is what they did.

Most of the children didn't recognise Aleni ... not like many of their parents did.
And those that did maybe didn't register (or care about) his presence; play being preferable.


Along with your narrative of Aleni's doings now he had arrived, please make me a Wisdom check (7+ for you)

Aleni was saddened by the state of Old Town and the King's Green. In a different circumstance he might have thought to how he might set this place right once more. The children would not be as free to play in the area but being able to grow abundant food outweighed such matters.

Still in the moment Aleni enjoyed the simplicity of children at play, their laughter and unmarred enthusiasm for life in spite of the world that they were born into. He would protect their innocence, their joy. To his dying breath.

--

Looking about the area he searched for any signs of the corruption, moving through the scrub-brush and overgrown grass. 3 on Wisdom save.

Aleni passed among the children as they played.  Their youth, innocence and naivety was a blessing by The One ... and something that, in His time, they would grow out of, to take their place in society as productive adults (hopefully).

But something was affecting these children; for even as he moved among them, only days after having driven all sickness from this city, he could see snotty noses, hear the occasional sneeze or cough.
Here, a child with reddish eyes, or reddish nose.   There, a kid whipping their nose across their sleeve.
Oh, they were unbothered by this.  Such was their life, and they were used to it.

But Aleni knew, KNEW, that this should not be the case.
He could feel it out there, somewhere: some insidious source of illness, working its way back into the population, via the children.

His growing ability hunt down and root out the cause of corruption and illness about him was a gift from The One, and his senses tingled with anticipation as he sensed himself close to the source.

But it took him some time to realise why he was having so much trouble homing in on the problem.
It was moving.

Aleni was displeased to see the children ill, even mildly. He had worked hard to cleanse the town of Nekiok of such things and this malignant force, this fetid being of plague and miasma, was undermining his work. Still it would serve no one for him to give into his displeasure. Instead he called out to the nearest child, kneeling so that they could be at eye level.

"Young one have you seen anything or anyone amiss in this area? Perhaps some manner of creature or animal? Maybe even a person that you are unfamiliar with?"

If the child could give him any indication as to who or what he was searching for he might be able to get closer to his goal. Otherwise he'd need to search for some other clue.