Brother Loran wiped his hands on his robes "she is sleeping but will make it. I will accompany you back as I will need to continue treating the wounded"

Richard nods in agreement with Ser Perth before turning to the captured nobles and  stares down at them to point out "You really aren't in any position to be demanding.  Just remember it was us peons who captured you."

The group marches their prisoners to Redcliffe castle, those infirmed and dead carried by the cart with the stolen treasure and other captured goods. Loran is able to ensure Gaius will survive his wounds, while the others keep a close watch on the two mages. Surprisingly enough, they offer no further resistance along the way.

The bodies are taken by the footmen to the undertaker, while the rest are placed in the dungeons below the castle. Sexta remains unconscious throughout, and the guards take care with her, at least.

Soon after, the crew are before Senechael Randon. Ser Perth gives his report to the arl’s gatekeeper and requests an audience with Eamon to determine the fate of the mages and the Tevinter survivors. Randon leaves to relay the knight’s report to the arl.

Meanwhile, sers Elias and Faustine arrive to look in on the apostates; they get information on what the crew saw of their abilities before heading to the dungeon. Shortly after that, Arl Eamon enters the main chamber, with Randon in tow.

“Well, you boys seem to have had a full day-and-a-half,” he says jovially, putting everyone at ease with his demeanor. “Apostates posing as Tevinter magisters, actual Tevinters going along with the ruse, and a string of thefts across Ferelden, perpetrated by their she-elf slave? It sounds like something out of The Dasher’s Men.”

“You read that, my lord?” Randon asks, to which the arl nods with a slight smile.

“Now, what to do with these wayward souls. The surviving man-at-arms will rot in a cell once I pass sentence, but we can’t necessarily keep a pair of mages in my dungeons forever, and we need to learn the culpability of the she-elf. Were her deeds that of a slave under orders by her master, or of a full partner-in-crime?”

"The apostate Guillaume d’Aveliard said she was the property of Secundus, the surviving man-at-arms, my lord.”

Eamon nods and turns to the other four in the room. “What do you boys think? You spent some time with her yesterday afternoon and evening. Did she strike you as a servant or free-willed?”

He looks at each man expectantly, expecting answers from all four.

While he was not particularly pleased by being called a boy Fost was aware that the Arl did not use the word to belittle them. Indeed, that they were allowed to be present at all, never mind being asked about their opinion was something to be proud of.
Fost frowned as he considered the dilemma. Acting on her own accord or as someone commanded.
"Arl, I have not really seen fear in the elf, I did not get the impression that she was forced to act as she did as if she were forced to do so. The initial encounter is hard to set up unless they noticed us before we did them. However, given the time they seem to have practiced similar ruses it is possible. If her flight had been a true one, why get back to them? Of all options she had when fleeing Redcliffe she went back to them."
"I believe she acted willingly.", he finished, suddenly aware that he may have said too much.

Eamon nods sagely at the warrior's response and turns his gaze on Mikhail, Richard, and Loran. "What of you three? What opinions have you formed as to her culpability?" he asks.

Mikhail looks between the Arl and the others in the room, thinking a bit before he answers. "I don't think she acted willingly in the same manner that I don't believe the soldiers of Orlais who occupied our nation acted willingly. There will always be the exceptions of people who disobey orders when given to them, but I don't think I could hold a soldier or knight responsible for following bad orders given to them. So, I can't hold Sexta as responsible for her actions, perhaps even less than I would a soldier since she never would have voluntarily signed away her life to another person. We must make sure that we hold the person who gave the order responsible for the actions of the ones under him, and that goes doubly so for slavers, since slaves, at least from what we hear of them out here, are conditioned for obedience to their masters above all else."

Richard pauses to wait his turn before thoughtfully responding, "I believe she played her part well.  She won our confidence then escaped through a secret exit she found, then ran straight back to report to her master.  She appeared to show no hesitation in the matter."

 Brother loran listened to the others before speaking.

"my lord I believe she played her part in the scheme but I do not believe she did it willingly. When we first met her she showed fear. I believe she went back to them as they have a hold over her in some way"

"That's hardly a consensus," the arl quips. He eyes each of them individually, as if he's trying to gauge their conviction, then strokes his beard with a hand as he moves to his throne to sit. Silent for a bit longer, Eamon finally clears his throat.

"As much as I can empathize with the she-elf's plight, we are taught to believe each person is - man, elf, dwarf alike - responsible for their own actions in the end," he explains. "Sexta will answer for her crimes, but I will take into account the involuntary nature of her previous servitude. Her punishment will not be as severe as the others.

"Now, you young men have gone to great trouble these past two days to protect my village and the Chantry from harm," he says, standing once again and approaching the quartet. "Know you that you each have my favor, and I grant you the right to carry my emblem with you. Randon?"

The senechal comes forward, bearing what appears to be four metal medallions.

"I coin these from steel, so they may endure, as I hope you men will," he says. Handing one each in turn to Fost, Mikhail, Richard, and Loran, the arl adds, "If you are stopped by a man of any bann or arl, simply present this emblem, and they are bound to let you pass without further harassment; however, if I learn you have abused these gifts, you will find my retribution swift and strong."

He turns and nods to Randon, who says they have earned "two days' wages in service to the arl," and pays each man 11sp.

Without further business, the quartet are dismissed, and are escorted out by Ser Perth.

OOC: Any banter as you exit the main hall?

Okay, we've largely completed Story 101. I'm awarding a total of 450 experience points for the adventure, so each of you gets 113 XP. Please update your character sheets. Richard, if you decide to go with a different character, you can apply the 113 XP to them upon arrival.

You also get the moniker, the "Arl's Men." Note that on your character sheet, and also note that you carry the arl's medallion. And don't forget to include the 11sp.

Fost was a simple man and he knew that. Admittedly Mikhail had lost the warrior in his elaboration about in the middle. To him it lookedl ike Mikhail did not answer the Arl's question. Instead, the mage suggested to accost those responsible. Fost could only assume that he meant the false magister. In the end, it sounded like Mikhail did not hold Sexta culpable.

Richard also talked around the question, admitting that the elf had quite simply bested them in fooling them. It seemed more a personal Chagrin than anything else. Understandable. Fost also deeply resented that the elf had fooled them quite so easily.

Loran anwered like Fost had expected. The man of faith believed in the elf's innocence.

On hindsight it would have been much better to anticipate the Arl's question and decide among themselves before giving this confused opinion.
In the end, offering their opinion was anything but helpful for the Arl and thus his reaction was understandable.
Fost grinded his teeth as Arl Eamon obviously had more belief in Sexta's innocence. Fost could not help but shake his head slightly at the decision. But he was aware that it was not his position to insist or quarrel over this matter. He would accept the Arl's choice even if he did not share his view. That's what being a ruler was all about, right ? After all, who was he to claim that his own view was right.
In the end, all that was left for Fost was to hear that punishment would apply. Law was served, the exact nature of the punishment was irrelevant.

Fost noted that the matter of the false mages was not resolved. What would happen to them ? Except for Mikhail's earlier comment to the knight about a letter to the Senior Enchanter and some murky reference about not keeping them in custody endlessly by the Arl, the matter reamined open.
Fost was quite simply far too intimidated by the presence of these important figures to comment. Still, he would make sure to try to stay informed about the false mages' future.

As the Arl expressed his thanks and favoured them with an emblem Fost struggled to not stare open-mouthed like a dumb peasant. He certainly had not expected such a favour. The imlications of this emblem were quite staggering in his opinion. The Arl's hint about retribution should they exploit the favour was unnecessary and Fost did not like to be reminded. Fost was honest, if not exactly honourable. He would not betray the Arl. Suggesting he might was an affront. But how was the Arl to know his nature ? So Fost accepted the emblem humbly but with a straight back and vowed to honour it.
The coins were of more imminent use.

With a respectful bow Fost left the presence of the Arl and his advisor.

Once outside, Fost said.
"I will be most interested what the exact punihsment for Sexta will be. More so, however, what will hapen nto the false mages. Mikhail, you did mention a letter to your superiors. Do you still plan to write that ?"

To Richard he said.
"In all this tumult I quite forgot to compliment you on your excellent shot. If not for you, Sexta would have escaped us."
He sighed and included Loran in his comment.
"And thanks to you, Loran, she survived. Obviously we are of different opinion about her motivation and admittedly maybe having her escape would have been better. Still, I must say that I am glad she is brought to justice."
This message was last edited by the player at 08:25, Wed 02 Sept 2020.

Mikhail nods. "Oh, their magic is real enough, but I think they are from the Orlesian Circle of Magi. I don't get the higher politics of the differing Circles, but perhaps the Templars can take core of these things. Without needing to resort to... drastic measures. Otherwise... I'm sure they'll end up in Ayenar prison, but that is for them to decide. Still, I'll definitely be writing the letter today. It needs to be resolved quickly, and I hold no real power in this case."

He rub the steel between his fingers as he thinks out loud. "You think I can actually hold a title? I mean, I always assumed I'd give up my birthright when I joined the Circle... It's an interesting thought."

"Well, let's not get ahead of ourselves," Ser Perth quips, his tone friendly. "Being an arl's man isn't really a title...it's not like he's naming you a lord or knight of Redcliffe. I'd hate to think the Circle would give you any trouble for something so minor."

Brother loran looked at the gift as they left, he wondered if a member of the chantry has ever held such a thing. He would have to consult with the mother superior. On the subject he would also petition her perhaps she could persaude the arl to be lenient after all the masterminds were the mages even if she did it willingly she was just a cog in their scheme.

He would also ask permission to visit the elf girl to take her confession if she were to give it or just to give her comfort in what she would soon face.

He looked at Fost when he spoke "yes it would seem we do differ in the subject but let it not come between us. As to saving her I follow the makers teachings all life should be valued. The arrow stopped her but her death would have gained us little as would the death of the wounded soldiers."

 He sighed slightly then chuckled "Perhaps that is the burden the maker has put in my shoulders that I care for all no matter their situation, station or activities"

Fost frowned.
"Rot in a cell or die in battle.", the burly warrior referred to the surviving fighter and his punishment, "Never doubt my preference. When it is my time to meet the Maker I want to hold my sword in hand."

His frown deepened.
"Somehow I doubt you have the Tevinter's thanks for your compassion, my friend."

"All said and done I am glad that these were just bandits and not some major attacking force. I wonder if we will ever learn whom they wanted to meet."

Fost's frown disappeared quickly though. He nudged Richard and winked.
"Let's get drunk."
Fost laughed and headed off to the tavern.
"First round is on me."
"You are welcome to join us, Sir Perth.", he added.

Richard accepted the emblem and the medallion with a simple "Thank you." as he rubbed it in his hands while the Arl finished speaking and any thoughts of potential mischief were banished immediately with the Arl's warning.

As Ser Perth escorted the party outside Richard joined in the conversation, "I hope they get the punishment they deserve, Orlesians causing trouble as they did here in Ferelden." he turned to answer Fost, "And thank you on the compliment, it wasn't an easy shot to make."

He listens intently to the discussion on magic and the potential ramifications of mages holding lands and titles but does not participate, until  "The girl's punishment is out of our hands now but the Arl seems to be the sort who values and upholds fairness.

Then, "I think a round or two of pints sounds like exactly the sort of trouble I could get into right now." he answers Fost as he follows him towards the tavern to spend his newly earned coin.

"I have to finish up a couple things here, but I'll meet you at the tavern in a bit," Ser Perth replies.

Ale begins to flow for the heroes, who are shortly joined by Ser Perth; the knight generously buys a round at the first opportunity. Orlin joins the group at some point, wanting to know how the fight turned out.

OOC: Fost's first round costs him 40cp. Ser Perth buys a pair of pitchers for the group when he arrives (equivalent to another round). How much does everyone want to spend?

The next two days before the wedding are spent helping put the finishing touches on the wedding.

OOC: If anyone need to make some purchases, this would be a good time to update stuff.

For Richard, if you wish to see if Owen has a suit of heavy leather available (that will fit), make a straight 3d6 roll. If you roll a 13 or higher and get 3 Stunt Points out of the roll, there's one for the regular price in his inventory at the smithy. (That's about a 1 in 8 chance.)

If you want to go to the castle armorer, whom I've named Corwin, his base price will be 120% of the normal cost (or 36sp vs. 30sp).

Regardless of who you go to, make a Communications (Bargaining) test, which will be opposed by Owen's or Corwin's own test, to determine how much you'll get for the suit of leather.

Since it's in good condition (hasn't been in a real fight, yet), I'll give you a +1 on your test roll vs. Corwin, since he appreciates the value of leather armor.

Sometime the next morning early afternoon, after Richard has recovered from last night's festivities, he makes his groggy way into the castle to inquire regarding some heavy leather armor from Corwin.

"Good afternoon, Corwin.  I understand you're the person to ask regarding buying new armor, might you happen to have any heavy leather for sale?  If you are agreeable, I wish to trade in my old leather armor to help offset the purchase price."

12:25, Today: Richard rolled 15 [should be 16 as I forgot the +1 bonus vs Corwin] using 3d6+3 (6  stunt points) with the AGE System with rolls of {6}, 3, 3.  Comm (bargaining).  well then

OOC: Richard will spend 2sp, or 200cp, including tip, towards rounds of ale.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:56, Thu 03 Sept 2020.

10:39, Today: Mikhail Loren rolled 7 using 3d6 (1 stunt point) with the AGE System with rolls of {1}, 1, 5.

Writing a letter to inform his teachers and the rest of the Circle seems a daunting prospect at first, but Mikhail would not be swayed in this regard. He was absolutely out of his element when dealing with rogue mages here, especially if they were from Orlais, as he suspected. They likely would not give him their real names, so he opted to instead try describing them. Maybe that could help.

Senior Enchanter Alva,
   I hope my letter finds you well and in good company. I have maintained my studies, my practices and continued to follow your lesson plan for me even as I sit here away from the Tower. Please give my regards and thanks to the First Enchanter for continuing to allow me to study abroad in this manner.
   However, this letter is not a mere status report on my lessons or studies. I have come across a pair of apostates and do not understand how I should act. They have been apprehended and are currently in the custody of Arl Eamon and the Chantry. I do not know how to proceed in this matter, and am unsure as to what is expected of me here. This was not something we generally talked about in your lessons, even after my Harrowing. I also do not know how or if we communicate with the Orlesian Circle of Magi to ask about these things.
   I trust and respect your position and your lessons, so you were the first I thought of to ask for instruction in this matter. I await your guidance in this matter, or that of the First Enchanter if such action is required of me.
   I wish you all the best with the new students.
   -Mikhail

Sealing the letter with wax, he paid a messenger a good coin to hurry with his letter, hoping for a quick response from his teacher.

Brother Loran went to the tavern for one watered down wine before leaving the drinkers in the party to it.

He wanted to discuss things with the mother superior. The coin given to him by the Arl and her view of a member of the chantry being given it.

He also wanted to discuss with her Sexta's situation and if there was anything the chantry could do to make her punishment less. And lastly he wanted to see the elf girl and ask her why she did what she did and to take her confession if cherished to give it

So the brother headed to the mother superior's rooms before evening prayer

OOC: So, you gents are pouring yourselves into your beds at the end of the night... :)

I'm going to move the individual conversations into their own threads (still on 0), and we'll wrap up Story 101 after that.

And, well-written letter on Mikhail's part...it'll help make up for the poor test rolls. ;)

Mikhail goes in search of a courier for his letter; he bumps into Ser Elias, who tells him that, as a somewhat official part of the Chantry in Redcliffe (his de facto Circle, so to speak, while studying abroad), Mikhail is entitled to use Chantry resources to send the letter.

"It just so happens that one of the lay brothers occasionally runs messages to nearby chantries," he says. "You can make use of him for Circle business; he's traveled to the Calenhad fortress before."

Mikhail nods, "That is perfect. If you would be so kind, please ask for my teacher, Senior Enchanter Alva." He also tips the courier a silver piece for speedy delivery.(or tips it to the Chantry, whichever is appropriate)

OOC: Tipping wouldn't be appropriate in this circumstance; however, making a donation to the Chantry is always welcome. Mikhail would know this, even if his player would not. :)

Fost awakens around midday - well, awakens isn't probably the best term; it's more appropriate to say that Fost comes to after somehow making it to his bed in the late hours of the previous night. Much of the evening is rather blurry in his mind, although there was a lot of smiling and laughing at some point.

He stands, still a little unsteady, even following a good amount of sleep, but is able to go through his "morning" routine sufficiently enough to appear (mostly) human by the time he emerges into a too-bright day. He heads to the tavern to get a bowl of fish stew; Owen refuses to let him pay for it or the "day ale" that accompanies it, saying they did right by the Chantry yesterday, and that deserves a reward.

News of yesterday's adventure has, indeed, spread throughout the village, apparently fueled by the soldiers' praise of the four friends who rooted out the mystery & proved to be (in their eyes) the deciding factor in stopping the thieves. It's also passing around that they have the arl's favor, which given his popularity, makes everyone seem to treat Fost, at least, better than they normally would.

Fost nearly threw up at the smell of fish but suppressed the urge. It just would not do to utterly ruin the newly gained reputation. And he did need something to fill his stomach.
Fost was quite surprised that quite a few folks thought that they had a major impact on the fight and he mumbled a half-hearted denial.
"We were lucky that the enemy mages fumbled their devastating magic. Man against man the Tevinter bandits could not stand up to the training of Ser Perth and his men. The Arl can be proud to be served by such loyal man. Me? Did not even draw my blade and it was already over. Richard is a demon with that bow, mark my words for it."