 |
| Griffon Knight Kalindra (right) |
Ending: Morning of 29/7 at Highhaven with Sandor & Laurana in bed again (finally!) :D
 |
| Kaijahra of the Warrior Elite |
Sandor Sunneson: I'm happy with Sandor, think he's done ok from L1
chris107: He's done brilliantly
Smon: Not dying - the key to success!
Smon: OK he did die for a bit vs Crowfinger...
chris107: and Barbarians are good at not dying
Smon: yup
Sandor Sunneson: true
Smon: Brutal fight in Forge of Fury Sunday
Smon: Had 2/3 of the 9 strong PC group down
Sandor Sunneson: down as in KO?
chris107: wow
Smon: Bill started crying when the trogs ripped Nightshadow's throat out...
Smon: Ended up w 3 dead - 2 PCs & Nemesis
Sandor Sunneson: Nemesis resurected?
Smon: (in the future vs where you are - you are with 'past Nemesis')
chris107: Nightshadow on the Dark Side...
chris107: Bill is showing his CE nature!
Smon: The PCs fell into trog trap, Amket Greywolf got cocky - a Fighter who thinks he's a Barbarian is Vulnerable & At Risk
chris107: eek
Smon: Nightshadow killed the trogs' giant war beast lizard that ate Hatala.
Sandor Sunneson: He does play all his characters pretty well Bill, surprised he cried whilst he was quite happy to martyr SBs brother
chris107: Sounds like quite a fight!
Sandor Sunneson: And upsetting Chris by playing a elven hating dragonborne
Sandor Sunneson: upsetting everyone that is
Smon: Well Bill was happy when Nightshadow's girlfriend appeared & rezzed him
Smon: His PCs are very distinct, different personalities & goals
Sandor Sunneson: He's now with his ladyfriend though with the dark sun?
Smon: yup
chris107: She will need dealing with when the other mess is cleared up.
Sandor Sunneson: Yeah epic
chris107: The fight with her brother was one of my favourites in the campaign
chris107: The fleet of the dead
Sandor Sunneson: think that was before Sandor??
Sandor Sunneson: Anyway, back to Mags and Sands
Smon: last session Sandor/Maglor w Prisha & her babes - http://smons.blogspot.co.uk/2018/01/14-15747-babes-in-vale.html
Sandor Sunneson: That took forever
Sandor Sunneson: So they headed to Highhaven as a group and got there
Smon: >>The fight with her brother << The sea battle with Tal Lorvas' Bone Fleet off Trade, 4446 BCCC yup
chris107: (It was a coupleof years ago I think?)
Smon: Yeah would have been a couple real years, only 15 months game time, things were going a bit slow for awhile.
chris107: Flying along now!
Sandor Sunneson: Nice bit of blue at the top of that link
Smon: 17/7/47 >>Smon: GM: And you head out of Plato on the road to Highhaven.<<
chris107: "So you face Queen Laurana today, my Lord?"
chris107: Maglor looks nervous.
Sandor Sunneson: Yes, will be good to see her
chris107: Maglor looks sceptical
Sandor Sunneson: We left on good terms the last time we met, so see what happens
chris107: "Let's hope so. I've heard what the Amazons do to men who displease them."
chris107: Maglor winces.
Smon: GM: That afternoon Prisha and her retinue (Delanie sore footed in new boots) bid you farewell at a crossroads - they head on west to Carchimish while you trek south-west to Highhaven, faster now without the ladies.
Sandor Sunneson: Well I get on well with her brother, so hopefully none of that will happen
Sandor Sunneson: The entourage have gone!
Smon: Eudora and Nemesis the amazons are still with you.
chris107: "Good morning, ladies."
Smon: As you head west, the shadow of a raven passes over Eudora. She shudders and pales, touching her face.
Sandor Sunneson: Not far to go now,
Smon: "I felt... the shadow of the raven upon me."
Sandor Sunneson: Are you ok?
Smon: "The touch of death."
Smon: Nemesis: "Do not worry about such superstition, Eudora."
Sandor Sunneson: That's not a good sign, think positively, your God will be with you
Smon: You reach Highhaven at sunset, having trekked well over 30 miles today.
chris107: "Foul carrion birds."
chris107: "I'll be glad of a bath!"
Smon: Eudora nods uncertainly to Sandor.
chris107: M casts a spies eye over all at Highhaven.
Smon: As you pass through the orchards and vinyards below Highhaven, you see a war griffon circling above.
chris107: Defences, numbers etc.
Sandor Sunneson: A fine establishment this Maglor
Smon: The griffon descends for the rider to spy you.
chris107: "Looks like a wonderful place, my Lord."
Smon: An amazon of the Warrior Elite - you don't recognise her, but she looks a lot like Artemisia, their fallen queen.
Sandor Sunneson: We'll slow down so it's easier for her to see us
Smon: The tall blonde amazon regards you with a frown as the griffon sweeps by overhead.
Sandor Sunneson: And look at her
chris107: "Fierce creatures indeed."
Sandor Sunneson: Did you recognise that person Eurdora/nemesis?
Smon: Nemesis nods and calls out: "Kaijahra! We bring Prince Sandor to Highhaven!"
Smon: Kaijahra - https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhae_EqsNy0v4FCDSniiqYTWiPAA4JWIIqEgaBI82-uFO3pxxxrb6lfljB16Dy_0bJAu-TL9UaCm7s-UxUSKfmii4fYEEPSmVjZLQUWk-L_WFuA90mCWm9AYX-IzwkHuQpqOnlv4ZdzPPA/s400/Kaijahra+of+the+Warrior+Elite%252C+Sister+of+Artemisia.png
chris107: (Maglor has recently been harbouring thoughts of training with the Tarn Riders...)
Smon: The rider does not speak, but nods and wheels her beast up and away, over the citadel walls.
chris107: Maglor thinks but deffo doesn't say. "By she's a bit rough!"
Smon: Nemesis: "That was Kaijahra, sister of Artemesis. Part of the Warrior Elite - the griffon riders of our Queen."
Smon: /roll d20
Smon rolls 1d20 and gets: 4,
Smon: Nemesis seems oblivious to Maglor's expression.
chris107: phew
Smon: GM: You start single file up the very narrow track that winds up the cliffside to Highhaven's gates.
Smon: As you near the gates, a horn blows from the battlements.
Sandor Sunneson: Good to be home ladies?
Smon: The gates open and in the courtyard beyond you see Queen Laurana coming to greet you, a dozen Warrior Elite (including Kaijahra) and Griffon Knights with her.
Smon: Nemesis smiles to Sandor. "Yes."
Sandor Sunneson: Your Majesty, Sandor will bow
chris107: Maglor fades into the background as best he can.
Smon: Laurana regards you both with neutral expression, and slightly inclines her head. "Welcome."
chris107: With a low bow.
Smon: She looks to Maglor with keen eye. "Who's the Elf?"
Sandor Sunneson: This is someone I met in the last few months travelling, a real charmer.
Smon: Laurana turns to Nemesis & Eudora: "I'll take your report from the Lighthouse in 15 minutes. Go clean up."
Smon: Nemesis & Eudora bow and withdraw.
Sandor Sunneson: Laurana meet Mags
Smon: Laurana inclines her head slightly, studying Maglor.
Sandor Sunneson: A trustworthy and valuable companion
chris107: "I have had the honour of acting as servant to his Lordship, your highness."
Smon: "From Diancecht?"
Smon: /roll d20
Smon rolls 1d20 and gets: 9,
chris107: "Further North your majesty."
Smon: "An Elf servant? Not a common thing."
Smon: Good old Laurana - http://i45.tinypic.com/24b5b8o.jpg
chris107: "Prince Sandor is no common master, your majesty."
Smon: "Walk with me."
Sandor Sunneson: We will follow her
Smon: Laurana gestures for you to follow her into the keep, the retinue following behind.
chris107: Maglor stays a respectful distance
Sandor Sunneson: How is your brother doing Laurana?
Smon: "Hakeem I hear has gone north, seeking alliance with the dwarves of Chacban and Kolda, perhaps. And his Elf friends in... Anatal..."
Smon: She studies Maglor further as you ascend the steps into the keep. "Let's go to my private quarters."
Sandor Sunneson: We'll follow
Smon: GM: In the Highhaven keep, Laurana leads you up to her well appointed royal chambers. Kaijahra and another amazon of the Warrior Elite stand guard outside as she closes the door, gesturing to a table. "Sit... both of you."
chris107: M does as he'stold. Waiting first for Sandor to be seated.
Sandor Sunneson: Prior to sitting, Your Majesty, I have a gift for one of your soldiers, I have no use for Bane anymore, this sword, so you may do with it as you see fit.
Smon: The Queen sets a trio of goblets and a jug of wine on the table.
Sandor Sunneson: The sword talks and is useful when combating spell casters
Smon: "Oh? Let me see it..."
Sandor Sunneson: He will hand Bane over to L
Sandor Sunneson: After handing over the sword, Sandor will pour out 3 glasses of wine from the jug
Sandor Sunneson: or goblets even
Smon: Laurana takes the longsword a little gingerly, admiring the fine workmanship.
Smon: "This is an excellent sword. A little heavier than I'm used to... but I believe it can be reworked to fit my hand."
Smon: Her eyes gleam. "I thank you Sandor, for this great gift."
Sandor Sunneson: You will do it justice Laurana
Smon: Laurana places the sword on a side table and sits with you.
Sandor Sunneson: You're welcome
Sandor Sunneson: I take you know about me becoming King of Caramesch?
Smon: She nods. "The queen's blade was lost when Artemisia was taken by the Black Sun... this shall be a replacement. Thank you again."
Smon: Laurana sips her wine.
Sandor Sunneson: It will be a fine replacement
Sandor Sunneson: removed Bane for character sheet
Smon: GM: Laurana seems quieter and definitely less sardonic than you've seen her before. Perhaps the cares of rulership lie heavy on her.
Smon: "Carchimish? No. Explain."
chris107: M watches and listens diecreetly.
Sandor Sunneson: Sandor will explain how he was sent a message that he is to take over the town following the passing of Rey
Sandor Sunneson: And that he has been asked to restore order to the town to ensure it's safety and long term prosperity
Smon: "I see... Yes, that makes good sense. Hakeem needs a loyal replacement for Reynard."
Smon: She drinks more wine. "The war cost us all dearly."
Sandor Sunneson: I am a bit nervous to be honest, but these things make or break you, so will give it a go if it means keeping the alliances of evil at bay
Sandor Sunneson: Sandor will start drinking the wine too
chris107: M will only sip politely
Smon: "You are right to be nervous."
Sandor Sunneson: We will have the same enemies your Majesty
Smon: Laurana looks thoughtful. "You don't need to call me that ...Prince Sandor."
Smon: She smiles slightly, a little of the old humour returning.
Sandor Sunneson: I owe you an apology for not assisting you before when you requested my help. That will not be happening again
Smon: "Oh? I don't recall? I'm sure it was nothing."
Sandor Sunneson: Well we both seem to be in positions of leadership forced upon us, be it the starts or by destiny
Smon: Laurana looks over at Maglor. "Sandor, I take it we can speak freely with your ...servant, here?"
Sandor Sunneson: Yes, we have been through lots together,
Sandor Sunneson: From Rallu north, unfortunately we lost Ajax
Smon: She nods. "Ajax? I am sorry."
Sandor Sunneson: Yes, killed by pirates, but his actions probably saved the life of an Elven Princess
chris107: (OOC another of the Heroes of Bisgen, dead)
Smon: "Then he died a hero."
Sandor Sunneson: Ironically he was looking at becoming a mage for your Brother, but never made the last leg
Smon: OOC The Curse of Crowfinger!!
Smon: brb
Smon: back
chris107: (Going wellso far, Fergus )
Sandor Sunneson: Anyway Laurana, you not got any food for 2 poor travellers who ensured 2 of your guards got home safely?
Sandor Sunneson: He'll snigger
Sandor Sunneson: Nice wine by the way
Sandor Sunneson: And he'll raise a glass to her and take another swipe
Sandor Sunneson: swig
Smon: Laurana: "I should speak with you of the political situation in Carchimish. And you will need guards... But for now, yes, dine in our Hall. You look battered by your adventures - stay a while, rest and heal."
Sandor Sunneson: Thank you, will you join us?
Smon: "Yes." GM: You finish you drinks. Laurana directs Kaijahra to escort you to guest quarters (one room with a cot for Maglor).
chris107: "Your Majasty."
chris107: M bows low as he leaves.
Sandor Sunneson: We shall see you in the morning
Smon: Nemesis & Eudora are waiting to give Queen Laurana their report as Kaijahra takes you to your room, eyeing you both.
Sandor Sunneson: Sandor will wave at them
Smon: Nemesis smiles back, Eudora still seems troubled.
chris107: M stays quiet and respectful, rarely making eye contact. Staying in charachter
Smon: GM: Over the next few days you rest and heal up (long rest completed).
Sandor Sunneson: When at the room, Sandor will thank Kaijahra and ask her if she can pass a message on to the Queen that he would like a private audience with her at somepoint over the next few days
Smon: Kaijahra: "Of course."
Sandor Sunneson: They will check their guest room directly for any spyholes etc
chris107: M gets to know the kitchen staff, helps fetch and carry etc.
Sandor Sunneson: discreteley even
Smon: You can both roll Insight (WIS+Prof) DC 15
Sandor Sunneson: M loves the ladies
Sandor Sunneson rolls 1d20 and gets: 5,
chris107 rolls 1d20+6 and gets: 7, (+6) = 13
Sandor Sunneson: with the hat of wisdom that's a pass I think
Smon: OK, failed that LOL
Smon: hat of wisdom is +2 WIS = +1 on WIS checks so I doubt it!
Smon: Kaijahra stands guard outside your room. Inside you search - roll Perception checks.
chris107 rolls 1d20+10 and gets: 1, (+10) = 11
chris107: this is not starting well
chris107: M is playing very much in his role as servant anyway.
Sandor Sunneson: +5 for PROF and +2 for WIS?
Smon: ok
Sandor Sunneson: +2 for hat, it gives WIS 20, so not sure if it means +5 for that?
Sandor Sunneson rolls 1d20 and gets: 19,
Smon: >>it gives WIS 20<< nope
Sandor Sunneson: ok
Smon: No idea where you got that from. Anyway it's a circlet not a hat you got from SB, just +2 to WIS it gives
Smon: To MAX 20
Smon: I think you confused the CAP with the bonus
Sandor Sunneson: Ah ok,
Smon: I doubt SB would have just handed over an item that gave WIS 20!
Sandor Sunneson: I did a Don, forgot MAX 20, just read 20
Smon: yup
chris107:
Sandor Sunneson: ok, WIS 12 then
Smon: So +5 Prof +1 WIS = +6 on checks
Sandor Sunneson: +6, so 19 passes
Smon: Sandor finds a spy hole!
Smon: Checking around, the wall seems hollow.
Sandor Sunneson: He'll ignore it
Sandor Sunneson: Or pretend he hasn't seen it.
Smon: Could be a secret door but no way to open from this side that you can find.
Smon: GM: OK You can rest & heal up in Highhaven, recovering your hd & Rages.
Sandor Sunneson: He will explain to Maglor that he really hopes for a good relationship with Laurana once he is in charge of Carchamesh,
Sandor Sunneson: so the person listening hears this to pass on blag blah
chris107: "She is a very beutiful woman. And a fine Queen. "
Sandor Sunneson: She is indeed, she has a heart of gold under a very tough exterior
chris107: "My Lord would do well with her friendship and trust."
Smon: Maglor finds the amazon kitchen staff extremely standoffish and he is told to stay out of the kitchens. They don't seem to like Men around, much.
chris107: He does as he's told.
Sandor Sunneson: You are right, my trust in her is total, she is of Hakeem's blood.
chris107: sticking to a little light dusting and polishing Prince Sandor's armour.
Sandor Sunneson: Can he not make a charisma check that overtime they get to like him possibly?
Smon: When you are nearly full rested, a party of adventurers led by Trystan the Bard pass through on their way to the Stone Tooth/Forge of Fury. Laurana sends them off with Eudora & Nemesis.
chris107: He'd rather not
chris107: Maglor makes a mental note of the new adventurers to pass on to his Queen.
Smon: Soon word comes back that Eudora and Nemesis are both dead, along with two adventurers - one, Nightshadow, arrived separately at Stone Tooth.
Smon: But a mysterious redhead appeared from nowhere and took Nightshadow's body away.
chris107: "The life of the adventurer is often short and brutal."
Smon: Laurana is troubled and send a Griffon Knight for Lady Meda of Thusia.
Sandor Sunneson: Sandor will comfort Laurana at this sadnews
Sandor Sunneson: Maybe they can be resurrected by Meda
Smon: GM: Meda arrives on Griffon-back, greets Sandor in friendly style, listens to reports, casts a divination, and pales.
chris107: Redhead? M was at Nara when news of the Lorvas woman and the skandik king arrived. Investigation maybe to put 2+2 together?
Smon: "Megaera Lorvas, Red Priestess of the Black Sun!"
chris107: "Eek!"
Smon: GM: Yes you & Meda work it out together - Meda has seen her at Thusia, when the Harans delivered her to Hakeem.
Smon: Meda: "Her power has grown..."
Sandor Sunneson: So we have a traitor in our midsts
chris107: "This Nightshadow is unknown to me."
Sandor Sunneson: And me
Smon: Inspecting the bodies, Meda is able to restore a rather dazed - now PC - Nemesis to life (will continue with her tale on Sunday tabletop)
chris107:
Sandor Sunneson: well played GM
chris107: Maglor is amazed at the power of the Mycretian woman.
Smon: From talking with Trystan & co, it seems that Nightshadow is a Rogue, who Trystan met - and disliked - in Selatine. Trystan & Nightshadow competed for the affection of the merchant Kym Goodkind; Nightshadow won.
Smon: Trystan seems to have moved on though, he now has a rather cute half orc girl accompanying him.
chris107: "And now it seems this Nightshadow has cionnections with King Hakeem's enemies?" Maglor makes sure he gets a full description.
Smon: Raeka the half orc - https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYzJife1k_SnlYuVHQ4kHJ-7MzeLzXT0BUWNGuA-1UAIzAV9Ro5OBAGW-CARRFnPavD18TyzF9kFqpJADQQiuB1xI7Y7GXnN7EMJQH2KUNhYMUE71v71xfqlIGh6K_s_hTDqDAPtayMj8/s400/half+orc+concubine.jpg
Smon: Maglor takes a description of the darkly handsome Rogue Assassin...
Sandor Sunneson: As long as he's happy
Sandor Sunneson: How has her power grown Meda?
Smon: Clearly a skilled infiltrator and manipulator of men - and women - this Nightshadow sounds almost like a mirror image of Maglor!
chris107: "Lorvas is the last surviving high ranking Dark Sun noble that we know of?"
chris107: hehe
Smon: Meda: "Captain Hippolyta of Stonetooth garrison reports that within an hour of Nightshadow's death, Megaera appeared by magic over his body!"
Smon: "She must have had some kind of magic link to him, and was able to travel directly to him. However she left Stone Tooth by mundane means, heading east."
chris107: "How many days agois this? Perhaps we can catch them?"
Sandor Sunneson: OOC- what happened to the assasin that was charmed during the death of Fion fight? He was pretty high level I think?
Smon: GM: 5 days passed between Nightshadow's death & Meda's IDing Megaera, so plenty of time to get away.
chris107: OOC Not sure Fergus, he disappeared.
chris107: thanks Simon.
Smon: OOC He was actually one of three assassins died attacking Hakeem & Dagda outside Ahyf.
Smon: Not that you'd know that.
chris107: "So what now, boss?"
Smon: (Megaera ID'd 27/7)
Sandor Sunneson: Well I need to focus on Carchamesh.
Smon: Meda and Laurana wish to speak with Sandor, Maglor may attend.
Sandor Sunneson: We will be heading there somepoint soon once we have spoken with Laurana, I know nothing of the politics of that toen
chris107: He will do so. quietly.
Smon: You notice Laurana seems rather to lack in true friends/confidantes among her amazon subjects, whereas Queen Artemisia had Bricis (who died at Forge of Fury fighting the orcs).
Sandor Sunneson: (That's cos they keep on dying in fights??)
Smon: GM: The four of you meet in Laurana's quarters.
Sandor Sunneson: Meda, Laurana, Sandor will nod
Smon: Kaijahra & another Elite guard the door, Laurana has you joined by one other amazon, a senior Griffon Knight by name of Kalindra.
Smon: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkOJHFgGncaxz7D78JHyjYvK7my4pOSN_Yz7MiZO_u-kNtLBEdXcBZ0Ew0o4uiFpSD5x_-1ovSmpvpccpfq2HTUzSseyA5XVLz2NicQTf45BIGFi28c14LxpLttvBZow8MdRx77SY7Gg8/s640/Warrior+%2526+Griffon+Knight+Kalindra.jpg - Kalindra on the right
Smon: Kalindra gestures to Maglor to pour the drinks...
chris107: He does so
Smon: Unlike Laurana & Meda, Kalindra is clearly not too happy about Men in the queen's chamber.
Smon: Laurana sits: "All of you, join me."
Smon: Lady Meda regards Maglor keenly. He gets the impression that trying to fool the Wise One would be pretty pointless.
chris107: He smiles, sheepishly at her.
Sandor Sunneson: This Mags lady Meda, a trusted associate of mine
Smon: Meda smiles back warmly at Maglor.
Smon: Meda has the greenish skin of Viridistan, but the physique of an amazon.
chris107: (Indeed Lauranna too knows of Maglor, Hakeem told her at a previous meeting)
Smon: And an ageless quality about her, combined with a sense of deep wisdom and great intellect.
Smon: Laurana: "So... the Black Sun are not yet dead."
Smon: Meda: "Indeed. And I have more bad news..."
Sandor Sunneson: Sandor awaits the news with abaited breath
Smon: She sighs. "Word has come to Thusia. For weeks, ships have been vanishing, debris found on the waters. And shortly before I left Thusia, the first report - the village of Trade has been attacked, by something monstrous!"
Sandor Sunneson: A sea monster?? A kraken?
Smon: Meda sips her wine grimly. "A dragon - a gargantuan black dragon. It can only be Matriarx."
chris107: "What could have stired her from her slumber?"
Smon: Laurana: "Matriarx has slept for years - and even when awake, has never attacked the coast."
chris107: "The work of the Black Sun?"
Sandor Sunneson: What has caused such a beast to attack us? Is she linked into the black sun?
Smon: Meda nods: "I suspect so. Megaera Lorvas clearly has many tricks. And much hate for us."
chris107: "Or Saru maybe? Has he been heard off?"
Smon: Meda: "Trade is all but destroyed. Lord Shieldbiter had moved his court to Ahyf, and left few soldiers there. The Lizardmen troops fled in terror."
Sandor Sunneson: Well for every species of evil dragon, there are good dragons too, maybe worth going on a mission to find one?
Sandor Sunneson: Why would he attack Shieldbiter? Seems a bit random?
chris107: (ooc I'm assuming as a spy to Queen Cildarith that Maglor is well briefed on recent events?)
Smon: Meda: "By all accounts Kaystar Saru still rules the Black Sun remnant far to the north at Palen Spring, beyond the Straits of Clashing Rocks. Protected from sea assault, it would take a land force to winkle him out. Perhaps next year Hakeem will turn his gaze that way."
Smon: (ooc what events?)
chris107: "Dragons can not stay on the wing indeffinately can they?"
chris107: "Thank you Lady Meda."
Sandor Sunneson: I don't think they will ever be wiped out the black sun, there will always be small remnants around here and there
chris107: "So likely the work of Lorvas then."
chris107: "I wouldn't count on that my Prince. I believe King Hakeem is pretty keen on wiping them from history completely."
Smon: Meda: "Matriarx lairs at the Isle of Dread, among the ruins of an ancient temple. None dare approach... Yes, it may be Megaera's revenge. After all, her brother Tal Lorvas died just off Trade. She has reason to hate Shieldbiter."
Sandor Sunneson: I would hope that be the case, but vermin never seem to be totally exterminated I have found
Smon: Meda sips her wine. "She could have incited the dragon to destroy his shipping, then attack his holdings."
chris107: "A Dragon in flight is hard to fight... Could we lure her back to her lair and lay in wait for her?"
Smon: Laurana looks at Maglor sceptically. "Surely... if you wish to die."
Sandor Sunneson: Sandor will chuckle at this
chris107: "I would have my Prince Sandor to protect me." He grins widely.
Smon: Meda: "I expect Father Camus at Ahyf has already used Sending to contact Hakeem... this is a matter for the Chosen of Bondorr."
Sandor Sunneson: I have Carchamesh to protect Maglor he'll laugh
Smon: Laurana: "But you don't believe in Bondorr, do you Lady Meda?"
chris107: "Where was Prince Shieldbiter when she attacked? Surely he would have protected his town?"
Smon: Meda: "Bondorr, like Athena, is a shadow upon the crystalline matrix of the Gaea - the World Spirit. He is real, in that sense."
chris107: "Hakeem is prettyhard to disbelieve."
Smon: ooc hold up while I get caught up thx
Smon: >>"Where was Prince Shieldbiter when she attacked?"<< Meda: "In Ahyf, I believe. He has resettled there."
chris107: "In Ahyf, I believe. He has resettled there." - M replies
Smon: Laurana: "This talk of dragons is most fascinating, but above my pay grade as mere Queen of Amazons... let us turn our attention to matters closer to hand."
chris107: "Could he not be put upon to slay this beast? He is mighty and has wings!"
Sandor Sunneson: That is not for us to decide Maglor
chris107: "True."M is silent.
Smon: Meda: "Shieldbiter.... Dyson Logos... Hakeem... There are those who may hope to face Matriarx and prevail."
Sandor Sunneson: Dyson sleeps doesn't he for the time being? Anyway, what about local issues
Smon: Laurana looks over at Sandor. "And my beloved, here, Lady Meda! Why, perhaps they'll ask Sandor to carry their waterskins!" She smiles rather evilly.
Smon: Meda nods. "Yes. Dyson sleeps. Laurana, what are your local issues?"
Smon: Laurana: "So, Hakeem has appointed Sandor King of Carchimish, but given him no army with which to take the throne."
chris107: "Carchimish has rescinded from the empire?"
Smon: Laurana looks to Sandor & Maglor. "No. Do you even know anything of the politics of Carchimish?"
chris107: "It was gifted by marriage to Lord Reynard Mercilin after the war with Yusan?"
Smon: Laurana: "Yes. Now his widow, Lyssana Koloth-Mercellin, rules as Queen. But the true power is her father Koloth, the Old King."
Sandor Sunneson: A little I have picked up here and there, there is a weak Queen in chrage
Sandor Sunneson: in name
Smon: Meda: "Koloth was King of Carchimish years ago, before the Brigand Lords ousted him."
chris107: "Koloth lives? My intelligence wa he was killed by Yusan. I am mistaken."
Smon: Laurana nods. "Aye, and he rules now again, with those men who stuck with him through the years of exile."
Sandor Sunneson: And how many of these men are there??
Smon: Laurana shakes her head. "He is good at not dying. A valuable trait."
chris107: Maglor agrees
Smon: Laurana: "Perhaps a score of veterans. Of course he has raised more green troops from the town. Though they do little to protect Carchimish's lands from the Orc raiders, the Bugbears and Ogres who descend from the mountains."
Smon: Laurana: "Nemesis did tell me though that Koloth has garrisoned Plato, in the east. Apparently while she was there with you, some whore serviced the entire town guard?"
chris107:
Sandor Sunneson: Maybe that's where we start, protect the towns from the various raiders
chris107: "Maybe remove Koloth's head first? Don't want him getting credit for stopping the raids?"
Smon: Laurana: "You START with taking power! Without dying in the process. How do you intend to achieve this?"
Smon: Meda winces at Maglor's bloodthirsty statement.
Sandor Sunneson: What does he do all day then if he doesn't protect his people? Does he just sit in his palace and get pissed?
Smon: Laurana: "Lady Meda... Perhaps this talk is not to your liking, as a holy follower of Mycr. I respect your beliefs and would not see you offended."
Smon: Meda: "Oh..."
Smon: Laurana: "I will have you escorted to your quarters, Lady. We'll meet again soon."
Sandor Sunneson: If so we go to his palace, we go as Hakeem's ambassadors
chris107: "Apolgies, Lady Meda. In my line of work one learns to be direct. I did not mean to offend."
chris107: "And we have our heads removed. Kings and power are not so easily seperated."
Smon: Laurana nods to the Griffon Knight, who escorts a rather surprised looking Meda from the room! At the door Meda nods to Maglor. "No offence taken. I am returning to Thusia - you are welcome there, Son of Cilborith."
Sandor Sunneson: Is there anywhere he goes we can intercept the party? when hunting perhaps? What do we n=know of Koloth?
chris107: He bows reverently.
Smon: GM: Once Griffon Knight Kalindra returns alone, Laurana gets down to business with Maglor & Sandor.
Smon: Laurana: "OK then."
Smon: Kalindra: "Koloth rarely leaves the Palace now. He spent years in the wilderness - he learned to hate it."
Smon: Kalindra eyes you. "I know a little of Carchimish. The Queen suggests that I command your Honour Guard."
Sandor Sunneson: How old is he? I guess he is not an undead? #
chris107: "I could perhaps have a snoop around find a safe way to his quarters? I'm no assassin but maybe I could get you close to him, Prince Sandor?"
Smon: Laurana nods: "He is old... but I believe he still lives! By all accounts he yet enjoys the pleasures of the flesh. He has commanded that all Ladies must disrobe at his court..."
Sandor Sunneson: Maybe Maglor, you could go and do some spying first and report back to us?
chris107: Maglor looks a little hurt by the word spy. He prefers snoop.
Sandor Sunneson: Ok, if you are happy to do this? Snoop?
Smon: Kalindra: "Most of the old nobility of Carchimish were vanquished by the Brigand Lords. Two noble ladies though, Sumatta & Rosaria, won the favour of Lord Mytsh and survived. As 'punishment', King Koloth now keeps them almost as slaves..."
Sandor Sunneson: He'll say smiling, then we go and remove him from the trone
chris107: "So the old nobility would welcome a new King, you think?"
chris107: "What support do they have?"
Sandor Sunneson: Rey had a good relationship with Hakeem, so surely they would support an ally of Hakeem to replace the Usurper?
Smon: Kalindra: "He has two Veterans of note - Sir Baltek, Commander of the Palace Guard, and the dwarf Sir Oghrim, his Weaponmaster and Champion."
Smon: Laurana sips her wine thoughtfully.
chris107: "They would do well to heed Hakeem's wishes."
Sandor Sunneson: SLord Mttsh?
Smon: Laurana: "Koloth is not a good ruler... but he is the Lawful ruler, of the Old Blood. Many Carchimishi respect that."
chris107: "But Kings, especialy old kings stick like limpets to their thrones."
Smon: Laurana: "The women, the Ladies Sumatta and Rosaria, they allied with the Brigand Lords... I doubt they are much loved in Carchimish. Likewise the Enchantress Dark Odo - she was Mytsh's apprentice, but was pardoned by Hakeem."
Sandor Sunneson: As is Hakeem, as I intend to be, maybe there is compromise there? Would Koloth give up his throne if he saw that the future was lawful and his people could be protected?
Sandor Sunneson: Probably not, he's still in charge
Sandor Sunneson: thinking aloud there
Sandor Sunneson: I think Maglor go and suss the place out, then that would give us more information. He appears to be well guarded in his citadel
chris107: "So by killing the old goat we appear little better than Yusan in the eyes of his people."
Smon: Laurana: "Koloth seemed eager enough when Lord Rey married his daughter and took the throne. He is stronger now, but I expect he would accede to you marrying Rey's widow..." she frowns.
Sandor Sunneson: Which is not our long term goal
chris107: " He is old....."
Sandor Sunneson: My heart is not for that Laurana
Smon: Laurana smiles back at Sandor with more warmth than you have seen recently.
chris107: "So where does this leave us?"
Smon: Laurana: "Oh, Nemesis reported that Captain Clenderi will soon bear your child. If a son, Clenderi will bring him to you at Carchimish."
Sandor Sunneson: Would an idea be that the villages which are being attacked and not helped by the King, that we help them and add them to your empire?
chris107: "Koloth is not loved by his people but is respected as legitimate king."
Sandor Sunneson: Yes, so I have been told
chris107: "He is weak and his villages are suffering as a consequence."
chris107: "He has loyal guards whom we must assume are able."
Smon: Laurana: "My empire, Sandor? Amazons do not rule Men."
Sandor Sunneson: If we were to protect his villages in my name as King, would his men look to attack me as I am doing their job?
chris107: "The old nobility have no sway as they were allied to Yusan."
Smon: Laurana looks puzzled at Sandor, then turns to Maglor. "You speak wisely, Elf. Go on."
chris107: "A wild card, could the king be deposed by a seemingly lawful, that is he has the backing of the nominal Emperor... challange to combat? He has a champion after all. That would precludw Prince Sandor having to marry..."
chris107: "All other options would seem to involve a longer game."
Smon: Laurana: "Not just anyone can walk into a King's Hall and challenge him for the right to rule... We are not Altanians!"
chris107: "The folks of Carchimich benefit and perhaps even a closer alliance betwixt them and their Amazon neighbours would flourish for the benefit of all?"
Smon: Laurana thinks hard, frowning. "Hmm."
chris107: "No but Hakeem is..."
chris107: "And it's him that want's Sandor as king."
Smon: Laurana: "Koloth would not wish to be seen to defy my brother. And you, Sandor, are known as Hakeem's man. You could, I suppose, simply demand the throne... But I would fear an 'accident' on a dark night."
chris107: "Something along the lines of.. We recued your shitty town from Yusan, now you defy me? Here is my Champion to do war upon your ancient arse and put an end to the deprivations your idleness has brought about?"
Smon: Laurana nods. "If Hakeem comes here, Koloth will cower like a whipped cur. But my brother is far away - and by all accounts, has a mighty Dragon to deal with."
chris107: "Get thee to a comfortable palace with a nice pension, sort of thing?"
Smon: Kalindra: "He has a Palace... But aye, comfort is what Koloth seeks, most of all."
Sandor Sunneson: A nice house in Bisgen possibly
chris107: "I believe Trade is nice at this time of year, Koloth. Let me help you pack."
Smon: Laurana laughs, finishes her wine. "Ahyf, at least!"
Smon: She grows serious. "Sandor...."
chris107: Maglor shugs and grins impishly
Sandor Sunneson: Unfort it was raised to the ground by the black dragon, but he might feel at home amongst the rubble,
Sandor Sunneson: Laurana
Smon: "...Sandor, Rey thought nothing of marrying Princess Lyssana, and keeping Alicia Scarnetti, his true love, as mistress. If you need to marry Lyssana, I will understand. I am an Amazon. We do not take husbands."
Smon: Kalindra is watching both Laurana & Sandor keenly.
Smon: Maglor gets the impression some sort of test is underway.
chris107: (A triumverate power base of Carchimish, Highhaven and the Unseen Conclave would work well to buffer this corner of empire...)
Sandor Sunneson: The game is afoot, more wine Laurana? And he'll raise his empty glass looking for a top up
Sandor Sunneson: and wink at her
chris107: Maglor tops them up
Smon: Laurana's expression is very serious. "No thank you."
chris107: He bows respectfully
Smon: She sighs, looking down. "Tell me when you have finalised your plans. I can spare eight warriors to protect you - Kalindra and Kaijara of the Warrior Elite, and six regulars. Don't get them killed."
Sandor Sunneson: I like the plan though, I just wish the need to marry something i do not know or want can be avoided, but if not and for the freater food, lets do it
Sandor Sunneson: greater good even
Sandor Sunneson: If it's good enough for Rey, it's good enough for me, just hope I don;t have the same ending as rey
Smon: Laurana: "Hmm... yes, of course." She stands. "I need to speak further with Kalindra. I'll see you two in the morning."
chris107: (I think you failed the test my friend)
chris107: "Your Majesty." M bows low
Sandor Sunneson: Your warriors are there to protect you, you have lost enough recently.
Smon: GM: Laurana bids you goodnight & has Kaijara escort you to your room, where you may talk in private.
Sandor Sunneson: But be listened too
Sandor Sunneson: I think we go to Carchamesh Maglor, I marry the King's Daughter if it be, and long term we see what happens.
chris107: "Well this is a fine pickle, my friend."
Sandor Sunneson: I think we go to Carchamesh Maglor, I marry the King's Daughter if it be, and long term we see what happens.
chris107: "Well this is a fine pickle, my friend."
Sandor Sunneson: I think we go to Carchamesh Maglor, I marry the King's Daughter if it be, and long term we see what happens.
chris107: "Well this is a fine pickle, my friend."
Sandor Sunneson: I think we go to Carchamesh Maglor, I marry the King's Daughter if it be, and long term we see what happens.
chris107: "Well this is a fine pickle, my friend."
chris107: "I get the feeling that that's not the answer Lauranna was really hoping for."
chris107: "But I'm with you to the end."
chris107: "Lead on, Prince Sandor."
Sandor Sunneson: I told you I felt I was being pushed in at the deep end with this. This is not something I chose but will do my best or worst accordingly
Smon: GM: So the plan is to accept Laurana's guards, go to Carchimish, Sandor marries Lyssana & becomes King, replacing Rey?
chris107: "And I will stand by your side."
Sandor Sunneson: No, not accept the guards, they need to protect the Queen
chris107: But they will add ligitimacy to your words
Smon: Just the two of you?
chris107: Carchimisch will be unlikely to want to anger the Amazons
chris107: Maglor councils agin going alone
Sandor Sunneson: Ok, with the guards
Smon: You can both roll DC 15 Insight again, you failed last time but you've been with the amazons awhile now
chris107: "Men dissapear, even improtant ones. You need witnesses."
chris107 rolls 1d20+6 and gets: 10, (+6) = 16
Sandor Sunneson rolls 1d20 and gets: 15,
Sandor Sunneson: +6=21
chris107: nice roll Fergus
Smon: Maglor & Sandor (who really shouldn't be Insight proficient) get the impression Laurana may have an ulterior motive for sending an escort with you...
chris107: hmmmmm
Smon: ...To get out of Highhaven certain characters like Artemisia's sister Kajihra who don't seem all that happy with Laurana as their new Queen?
chris107: "Then I leave the final word to my friend and King."
Smon: Griffon Knight Kalindra is hard to read, but Kajihra definitely doesn't seem a huge fan of Laurana.
chris107: (She's hoping we get butchered? Bitch!)
Smon: Maybe give them something to do, keep the out of trouble? Though Maglor may suspect darker motivations.
chris107: (I have about 20 more minutes guys, taking mum to Skipton this afternoon)
Smon: OOC yes finishing by 12pm.
Sandor Sunneson: Cool
chris107: Maglor is a suspicious cove. Goes with the job
Smon: OOC Planning to do Prisha's arrival in Carchimish tomorrow night; see what she gets up to while you are in Highhaven.
chris107: Cool
Sandor Sunneson: Sandor will request an audience with Laurana
Smon: Next morning, Laurana receives Sandor privately.
Smon: She looks a little tired.
Smon: "Hello, Sandor."
Sandor Sunneson: Good Morning, thank you for this.
Smon: Laurana shrugs.
Sandor Sunneson: We will be heading to Carcahmish, my heart is not happy about this, but if it brings peace to the area long term then so be it.
Smon: "So, will you be leaving for Carchimish today? Your wounds are healed."
Smon: It's 29/07 now by my count, nearly caught up.
Sandor Sunneson: yes, and looking to bring pride back to a place and turn its fortunes around'
chris107: yay!
Smon: Laurana nods. "Good luck. Don't die."
Smon: "Kalindra is a True Amazon. And obedient. You can rely on her."
Sandor Sunneson: Thank you, I`ll do my best to stay alive. Whatever happens will be in the lap of the Gods, but hopefully Bondorr will give me strength
Sandor Sunneson: And Kajihra?
Smon: "Kaijahra is ...something of a loose boulder."
Sandor Sunneson: She was looking rather distainfully in your direction on many occassions yesterday
Smon: Laurana nods. "Kaijahra was loyal to her sister. She did not agree with Artemisia's decision that I should rule after her."
Sandor Sunneson: She sees herself as the ruler?
Smon: Laurana sighs. "Although I am of the blood of Queen Khelara, I am also of the blood of Yusan... Our greatest enemy."
Sandor Sunneson: Who else is there to rule?
Smon: Laurana nods. "She thinks untainted blood should rule. And she resents that she has not been made a Captain or Griffon Knight, commanding others... ...But she is a fierce warrior. She loves danger."
Sandor Sunneson: You are doing a fine job, I admire your strength, I will take that onboard.
Smon: Laurana: "Kaijahra was very young when Khelara fell, and Artemisia took command of our defence against Yusan's assault. But she fought well. She believes she has the Right... and I know that feeling well." Laurana smiles wryly.
Smon: Laurana shrugs. "And who is to say she is wrong? But keep an eye on her."
Sandor Sunneson: Prior to going I have one thing to say to you. There are many rumours going around about us,
Smon: "We have been lovers."
Smon: Laurana eyes Sandor coolly.
Sandor Sunneson: Peasants have approached me saying I cannot marry the Carchamesh Queen because of you. One day, if you want, you can be my Queen, and hopefully we will be lovers again
Smon: OK roll a Persuasion check Sandor, CHA+Prof
Sandor Sunneson: When you only have an eye for the neighbouring Queen Laurana, what is one meant to do.
chris107: good luck
Sandor Sunneson: Anyway, I shall leave it there, bow and walk out.
Sandor Sunneson:
Sandor Sunneson rolls 1d20 and gets: 11,
Sandor Sunneson: +5=16
Smon: Laurana's hard expression softens greatly. "Oh, Sandor..."
Smon: "I would..."
Smon: "I..."
Smon: Sandor leaves?
Sandor Sunneson: Not quite
chris107:
Smon: Sandor stops at the door.
Sandor Sunneson: Sandor will approach her
Sandor Sunneson: And kiss her,
Smon: Laurana sees Sandor approach. Gulps. Takes the amazon crown from her head and drops it to the floor as he kisses her.
Smon: She returns the kiss passionately, falling into his arms...
chris107: About blinking time!
Sandor Sunneson: Just as well it wasnt a 1
Smon: The finery of the Amazon Queen scatters on the floor. The Royal Bed beckons...
Sandor Sunneson: would have been civil war
Smon: ~definitely fade to black~
chris107: And on that note, I must fly!
chris107: Thanks guys
Sandor Sunneson: I'm off for a snooze
Smon: Nice ending! Well done!
chris107: See you tonight Simon?
Smon: Goodnight Fergus!
Sandor Sunneson: Cheers you 2,
Smon: Yup see you 7.30 chris!
chris107: G'night Furges
Smon: 1500 XP
chris107: Chhers, laters!
Sandor Sunneson: I'll do best to log on Thursday morning NZ time Wed night Simon
Sandor Sunneson: ta
Smon: ok Fergus, cool
12:00pm 2018-1-30 chris107 Has exited the room
Smon: Will try to get Prisha moved up fast then
Smon: posting log
Sandor Sunneson rolls 1d6 and gets: 5,
Sandor Sunneson: nearly ha ha
Smon: LOL
Sandor Sunneson: chat soon Simon, night
Smon: night!
