Better hear what she has to say then.

>What are you studying anyways?

> it will still need to be washed

Perhaps we can help her with that.

Why so timid?

>>13057328
Walk her into our tent and see what she has to say. We need to convince the riders to stay with us and scout for us. Laelith said one of the walls went down... It's possible we can still do some damage to their fort/men inside it while the week is still on.

Also, pasted from last thread for possible idea on how to deal with the elves: What if we did something similar to what Blackbird was doing to the caravans? Have our hunters hidden in the terrain in covered pits and such and have them ambush the elves when they attack us. It won't kill them all but we could put a dent in their numbers since they're coming in higher numbers and it might stop them from harassing us.

>>13057328
Let's hear what Jayne has to say.
Then get some rest.
Then we need to talk with the Esperitus Raiders and the RapidRiders about their contracts. We can't afford to lose them at this point.

An inventory of our current spoils would be appreciated. We'd need to see what we can offer them.

While we wait, a quick force overview:

196th Legionary - Gaius Rex (135/200 - Good)
(5 with Blackbird)

454th Legionary - Cornelius Hoursch (150/200 - Good)

98th Warlords - Uurist Titius (100/150 - Average)
(10 with Blackbird)

99th Hunters - Aurelius Caspius (55/75 - Good)
(10 with Blackbird)

50th Dwarven Scouts - Finian Gaurush (85/100 - Good)
(5 with Blackbird)

65th Dwarven Rangers - Kyria Esfelda (70/75 - Good)
(Arm useable but nowhere near full capacity, permanent)

House Garlian Uursan Cavalry - Lady Jayne Garlian (50/75 - Good)

Cornwal Mercenaries - Buckmoore Kystris (130/175 - Average)

Impetus Marauders - Aeristus Beztia (150/200 - Average)

Esperitus Raiders - Kurt Dorias (30/60 - Poor)
(Attempting to end contract)

Kyrtosh RapidRiders - Bastius Glenth (20/50 - Poor)
(Attempting to end contract)

And an estimate of the current Uurlanthian forces:

Armored Sergeants: 80/200
(Pikes)

Levied Swordsmen: 200/300

Footslogging Men-at-Arms: 80/150
(Heavy armor, shields, and maces)

Mounted Men-at-Arms: 65/75

Knights: 55/100
(Valkeries and horses)

Elven Archers: 270/300
(500 yard range, man accurate at 250 yards)

Longbowmen: 80/200

Medium Mercenaries #1: 110/200
(Humans, scalemail and axes)

Medium Mercenaries #2: 55/150
(Humans, mail shirts, kite shields, and longswords)

Heavy Mercenaries: 75/150
( Dwarves, plate armor and great hammers)

>>13057402
Definitely Jayne first then Mercs, as for the ambush. I don't know, it seems like the elves would be able to sniff out an attack but maybe I'm just being paranoid

>computer programming... but the papaer is for a non-major course

"What can I help you with, Jayne?" you ask her, opening your tent-flap and inviting her in.

"Well, its a personal manner, but... it involves you as much as it does me I suppose. When we were dining with the captive nobles, what you said to Kaitlyn; was that part of your game or..." her voice trails off the usually confident and willful woman replaced with a frightened youth, unsure of what she should feel. Her face shifting between all manner of emotions as she waits for your response.

>>13057512
Our hunters are fairly stealthy, although true they do excel in forests more. I just think we shouldn't let the elves keep harassing us without doing anything and that's one of the few things I could think up that's reasonable.

>>13057525
Well, what was said was true. Marrying her at this point would weaken her house, and considering how we're already a massive drain on her house resources given the way we burn through her Uursan, it would be a really dickish thing to do.

Speaking of which, we really, REALLY need to be more careful with her cavalry.

>>13057588
I'm not entirely sure we should mention that to her though. Right now she needs warm, comforting reassurance, not a cold appraisal. Also we should avoid mentioning the fact that we're already running her house into the ground, that won't be good for her confidence, both in us and in herself.

>>13057538
I agree that we have to do something, and the Hunter ambush seems like it would be at least somewhat effective. I'm just worried that it would end up costing us more than them. Aren't the Hunters decent in melee? If im remembering that correctly then perhaps we have them forego having a shooting match with the elves and instead have them move to engage in close combat. While they do this we can move a heavier unit(like the bear cavalry perhaps) to attack the engaged elves

>>13057525
"It was the truth. My current situation as a commander is far below your station as a noble. I'd only hurt your house at this point and unless I can capitalize on this last battle sufficiently, I may end up crippling your troops as well."

There. Now we can enter that topic of having her leave if she's taking too many losses if people want.

>>13057632
They are decent in melee. They took on Lacertan skirmishers in close combat during our training session outnumbered and almost took them out. Sure they were only skirmishers but they were still Lacertan's.

>>13057506

Laelith said she roasted a few valks as well. We're gonna need to get some confirmation about numbers from Pax.

>>13057632

Regarding ambushing, we now know that elves can't see for shit in the dark. This means that the fortified hides can and will kill them if hidden well enough. (We'll have to construct the hides with elementalism.) However, I realistically only see this working once before they stop. I'd also be concerned of entended NV paste usage by the ambushers.

>>13057677
It's only an estimate right now.

>>13057625
I see your point but do we want to basically say to her we're aiming to marry her? That's a pretty big decision to make and we'd have to decide as a group since if she's the main person we're marrying, that'll affect our future political career a lot.

>>13057625
seconding reassurance rather than cold appraisal, at least for the most part, perhaps something like " I was being truthful about the fact that my station is, at the moment, rather low to be acceptable for a noble like yourself but I hope that will not be the case for much longer"
>suitors trigher

>>13057639
That wouldbe far too a heartless thing to say unless we add in the fact that we do sincerely care about her and would want nothing more then to be with her, Trentz is just thinking of her and her family first, himself second.

>>13057724
Yeah I know but I was unsure on how committed we wanted to be to her so i didn't add anything like that. Wasn't sure if people wanted to make it clear we were aiming to marry her as our main pursuit or not, since as I said, that could influence our future political aspirations since we'd be using up that route of a political ascension in marrying into a certain house/important people. As it stands, Jayne's house is losing some of its prestige remember.

I think we can go ahead and say that we spoke true. Marrying her at this point would hurt her and her family, but it is something we are aiming for.

(After all, of all of our ladies she is the only one who really can't afford to be a mere concubine) <--- DO NOT SAY THIS TO HER.

You stifle a sigh, trying hard to not sound cold or hurtful with your response "I was as blindsided by her question as you were, Jayne. And while I truly do care for you, and greatly enjoy your company; it was the unfortunate truth. You are far above my station at the moment. I do however, sincerely hope to get to know you much better than I do now, and to excel so that at a point in the not to distant future that barrier will be no more... and our relationship will be able to grow in whichever direction our hearts desire." you reply gently, clasping her hands in yours.

Relief blooms across Jaynes face at your response "Then I look forward to that day, Justinian. And with your skill I have no doubt that as your renown grows, so will my houses reputation be repaired and grown." releasing one of her hands you pull a bowl of fresh water from your table and offer it to her. She looks down at her hands, still clasped in yours, then at you, raising an eyebrow. "What is your game with the Stant boy then, Justinian?" she asks, teasingly.

>>13057880

Unless we find a lady even more powerful.

For some reason I keep imagining we're going to eventually meet the Emperor's daughter or something similar.

>>13057906
"I intend to break him with that most ancient device of torture, love. to be specific I intend to pit his love for kaitlyn against his love for his Father and brothers in order to gain information from him and possibly gain an ally to place upon Lord Stant's throne if the campaign goes well"

>>13057906
"A combination of intelligence gathering, hurting Lord Stant in a way he wouldn't foresee and honestly helping out two people in love."

>>13057907
Even if that scenario were possible, we'd have to be damn awesome for a union like that to be considered. And we'd have to be single, which means potentially breaking Jayne's heart after what we've said or somehow convince her to accept a concubine position. Unless there's some law in the Empire I'm not aware of when it comes to the Emperor's family but I doubt it.

>>13057906
He and Kaitlyn have my sympathies. I would like to help them, but at the same time I have a campaign to win. As of right now those are in conflict. I want him on my side so that I can do both.

>>13058002
I agree, if the emperor's daughter is offered to us we must find a way to make that okay with Jayne first. I doubt she would have a problem being a concubine under the Emperor's daughter(princess? im not sure if that would be the correct terminology or not) but we would definately need to make sure of that.

>>13057966
That's kind of cold. I think this >>13058008 might be a bit better

>>13058071
The problem is though we'd probably need to be a Praetorian for that to even be considered. Even before we reach that rank, we'd likely be able to marry Jayne and I doubt we'd meet the Emperor or his family by that point. The scenario just seems unlikely in my mind unless we actively push Jayne aside and remain single as long as we can. At that point, we might alienate Jayne.

>>13058105
Agreed, I think we should marry Jayne as soon as it is socially acceptable for both parties and then play everything by ear. If the emperor himself were set on us marrying his daughter for some reason, I'm sure allowances could be made for a change in status on Jayne's part from wife to concubine but we should only do this if we can do it without causing Jayne any undue pain

>>13058169

It WILL cause her pain. No two ways about that.

"Exactly what I tell them, I intend to help them live happily together. There are few things more tragic than an impossible love, in my opinion." you reply, dabbing away at Jaynes eyes with the wet cloth.

"Why thats so very... romantic, of you." Jayne replies, her voice still light.

"Well, he would make a useful ally as well." you quickly defend yourself, suddenly terrified of what would befall you should Sansa or Kyria hear that you are secretly a hopeless romantic, regardless of the truth to the statement. Jayne laughs at your response, the sound of it filling the tent with a new warmth that the thick furs of the tent could not hope to imitate. The teasing goes back and forth for a while longer before Jayne finally yawns and makes her way back to her own tent. You fall asleep shortly thereafter.

>well, what do you want to do when you wake up?

>>13058212
Talk to the mercs and then check on the slaves we freed and see if their leader is appeased or not. Then maybe we should see what Miss. You will Fail my challenge god thinks of us now.

>>13058212

Check in on collin. Then we need to review our war spoils before we see the mercs.

>>13058212
Check up on what the gods think.
See what we've got to offer the mercs, then go talk to them. We need to convince them to stay.
After that see if the nomad leader is still around or if he skipped town when we freed their families.
Also check if Lena plans to leave too.

>>13058295
Lena said she would have an answer for us when we saw her next, so we'll get our answer then, we likely wont have to convince her of anything.

Maybe off the mercs some of the amassed Armor we gathered to give them a better chance in combat.

and yes, we should see on the gods.

>>13058238

If i'm not mistaken, the nomads ran off after the slaves were freed.

We really should have had them agree to continue fighting with us.

>>13058212
1. Call up Raynha. Turn in quest.
2. Check up on Collin. See how he's holding up.
3. Review the battle. What did we get, what did we kill. Also, inventory.
4. Talk to mercs, try to convince them to stay.
5. Talk to nomads, if possible.
6. Talk to Lena.
7. Steal Laelith's robes, leave sashes.

>>13058362
No. High command looks very, very poorly on that sort of thing. We got in trouble even for using peasant volunteers who were trying to defend their own homes. We're better off minimizing the stuff we use them for.

>>13058362
The ones who joined us in combat ran off. There were still wounded and such in our camp. So either they abandoned them or they're going to come back for the wounded. If they abandoned them, the guys are jerks. If they come back for them, we have the chance to see them one more time.

>>13058386
> 7. Steal Laelith's robes, leave sashes.

You forgot
> 8. Pic related.

>>13058437

Good point. Perhaps we can ask Lena about this later. Else, we can send out some riders to look for them.

First priority is to keep those mercs. Let's figure out what we've got to bargain with, then go talk to them.

The idea to offer them better equipment was a good one.

>>13058542
Yeah, we've got plenty to go around, more then enough to give out to the 60 or so mercs thinking on quitting.

But i think we should commune with the gods above first, as some may see fit to grant us a little bonus to our already silvered tongue.

loot:
15 full sets plate armor
50 full sets surcoat over mail
45 full sets chainmail armor
48 horses
complete fucking armory (iron and steel)

As you drift off to sleep, you feel yourself pulled from your body. This time, however, you are not stopped at the center of the circle, instead you are pulled clear through and into the warm brown light. You awaken inside a room, made of some strange wood that you cannot identify, in a plush warm bed. You rise, surprised to find that you are in your full armor, Finians mail shirt, then your platemail. Below you the sounds of merriment can be heard, at lest two floors below, you would estimate. On a table near the bed sits your helmet, your spear and sword are both on a weapon rack near the table. You collect your belongings and proceed through the only door.

As you enter the next room you see the same tall, beautiful woman that you saw in your vision, though her size is not of the epic scale you first saw her in. Instead of armor she is wearing a simple yet elegant gray dress, though her hammer is still on her hip. "Greetings, Commander Justinian Trentz. I am Rayhna, defender of this Hall. You have distinguished yourself by your deeds, so I have brought you here to better measure your character..." the goddess pauses, looking you over "I see you come before me as a soldier, interesting, but not unexpected. My first question to you is, Do you know why I brought you here?"

>>13058564

Something to do with her challenge.

Also her battle that we saw in the storm.

She's also probably looking to make us one of her followers. Remember, the second time we chatted with the gods they had expected us to have chosen one to worship and were surprised that we hadn't.

>>13058564
"I assume because of the vision I saw of you facing Garagush in battle with your armies"

>>13058564

"I presume it would be regarding the slaves whom my men freed from their captors. What would you have of me?"

Look for some ring on her hand and kiss it as chivalry demands.

>>13058590
>>13058598
>>13058599

All of these. It's a busy time to be a goddess.

>>13058564
Bow as you would nobility, and as a guest in her home.

"To thank me for going far beyond a Manple commander? To discuss the vision you showed me naught but a few days ago? To grant me advise that only a lady of limitless knowledge can partake? There are a hundred different reasons, but it is only you that knows which one for certain."

You offer a shallow bow and a salute, as is propper for a Commander to offer a noble host when meeting them upon entering their home. "I would assume your intent is related to the 'test' you cryptically informed me of, the vision I had but a few nights ago, or to request something of me." you reply honestly, setting your helm upon a nearby table.

"Test? ahh yes, the Sycophants ploy." the goddess replies visibly taking measure of you "He no doubt wished to discern what favor you placed the most value on, that of your mortal masters or that of the devine. Your actions no doubt put a damper on that scheme, and for that alone I thank you. However the nature of your actions did further impress me... perhaps i shall grant you a boon, should you prove worthy of it by the time my business with you is done. As to the vision, what did you make of it? i would hear your interpretation before we continue this conversation."

>>13058827
The gods are returning, and likewise their war is returning full force. Very soon mortals like us are going to have to start picking sides.

>>13058827

Pause for a minute to discuss.

Guys, that the Uurlanthians are not truly our enemy. That a dark time is approaching where we shall have to stand alongside each other like in ancient times to defeat a terrible foe.

Thats the easiest interpretation. Any other thoughts?

>>13058827
"At this point, I have two theories. I was either shown something that occurred in the far past, where you gathered the Dengrian and Uurlanth kingdom to fight alongside you to combat Garagush's armies when you were more active in the world. Alternatively, it's a symbolic vision indicating you and Garagush are fighting for my... Devotion I suppose. Although if this is the case I fail to see how Garagush has made any attempts to do so."

>>13058883
I think this is a good interpretation. General enough to cover lots of bases.

>>13058905
> Alternatively, it's a symbolic vision indicating you and Garagush are fighting for my... Devotion I suppose. Although if this is the case I fail to see how Garagush has made any attempts to do so."

That sounds a bit too egotistical. Let's not go with that. I'm more in favor of this >>13058891

>>13058938
Perhaps but it's what I figured based on the fact other people had visions over certain gods. Seemed like certain gods were trying to recruit certain people to their cause.

>>13058905
I like this

>>13058962
I took that more as a bunch of recruiting attempts, secondary to the battle itself. They battle isn't over the people, they gods are already having the battle and they're trying to marshal additional forces to take part in it.

>>13059000
I just assumed each god had their own symbolic way of trying to get a persons devotion. The war gods did it through battle. Eago did it by accompanying Wulf in his wanderings and he shielded him from decaying goddess. The love goddess protected Laelith from... Forgot her name's punishments. Perhaps I misread it in that sense but I think we have the same general idea.

>>13058905

i'll second this

>>13059000
Okay so this>>13058905
but with the second theory changed to something like this "Alternatively, It's as though I'm being asked to pick sides in a conflict between you and Garagush"

"I think that I was either shown a battle far in the past when you lead the nations of mortals against Garugash in a great battle of great import, Which would tell me that a battle of great importance will draw the two nations together in the future. Or, it was one of many visions seen that night, as the returning gods are searching for devotees to aid them against the deity which they are in opposition of." you reply, feeling confident of your interpretation of what you were shown.

Raynha chuckles "Interesting, but I fear you read too deeply into what you saw. The battle was a current one, the Warlord and I were in disagreement over how we should react to you mortals. As our power returns we are increasingly noticing that there are groups among you who are somehow... hiding, their doings from us. All we know is that a time of great strife is approaching, and it will be more than mere mortal deeds that will surround it. This time that your kind have dubbed the Second Age is coming to its close, I wonder what your thoughts on that are?" she finishes, and you are beginning to suspect that she wants to measure the strength of your character, not your knowledge.

>>13059304
A time of both great danger and great opportunity.

>>13059304
"All I can do is prepare to meet this new age and whatever strife it might bring. Mortal or divine, I will face the source of this great strife if it threatens our world. Even if I must do it alone."

>>13059304

"Then the age of reason will come to a close. The mortal races of the world will once again begin worshipping the gods. As divine gifts and favour bring great boons, so will some bring sorrow and suffering.

As a sworn protector of the Empire, I will still faithfully discharge my duties, to protect and preserve the common people and alleviate suffering wherever I can. That my people will ride out the storm of change unscathed."

>>13059404
>>13059376
>>13059348
>three very different responses that will garner very different replies... gonna have to come to a consensus

>>13059376

i'll go with this one

>>13059447

GM hint? /grin

>>13059376
I say this one
>>13059404
This one, might offend her, as you seem to outright refuse her and the gods by saying they cause only trouble.

>>13059471
>one will get confusion, one approval, one ire

>>13059376
I'm leaning toward this, but leave out the last part about facing it alone.
That strikes me as a bit unwise.

>>13059488

Well, didn't choose to disregard her. Just that shes not the only one on the pantheon and that there will be others who will choose to use their new powers for their own gain and it will be our duty to prevent such things from happening.

>>13059348

WAIT, I change mine to this

>>13059530
Still, it's a bit more hostile than I think we should be at this point.

>>13059348
I think that's going to be the one that leads to confusion.

Confusion >>13059348
Approval >>13059376
Ire >>13059404

>>13059376
I support this.

I like this one >>13059404
because the gods ARE a bunch of meddlers who use mortals as pawns in their grand schemes. With the end of the Second Age, ends an era of non-interference when mortals could determine their own destiny by their own hands.

But, angering a goddess in her own home is both unwise and rude, and if anything, Justinian is not rude.
>>13059376
Going for this one, but adding this:
>As a sworn protector of the Empire, I will still faithfully discharge my duties, to protect and preserve the common people and alleviate suffering wherever I can. That my people will ride out the storm of change unscathed.

>>13059586
>are you sure?
>and my homeworks done, so excuse me if I get a wee bit trollish please

>>13059542

i stand by my decision

>>13059616

>>13059616
I hate when you do that.
>>13059376
Remember we would not be alone in our endeavor.

>>13059404
I like this one. Shows the gods that we will not simply bow to them for no reason.

>>13059616
HA, You're dealing with Traditional Gamers here, you think we havent had a DM ask 'Are you sure?' Before?!

I call your bluff!

>>13059689
I know but I just wanted to show we'd be willing to do what's necessary even if others doubted us.

>>13059711
I still think it's too offensive in some ways. Still sticking with >>13059376

"Then the age of reason could very well come to a close as well, should the will of the mortal races fail. Either way as a sworn protector of the Empire, I will still faithfully discharge my duties, to protect and preserve the common people and alleviate suffering wherever I can. That my people will ride out the storm of change unscathed is my only desire." you reply honestly. You may not have the deepest knowledge of history, but you know what happened to the mortals when they last relied on the devine more than one another.

"An interesting opinion... and a noble stance. I know your mind, and know that I will not be met with success if I were to command you to kneel before me and offer servitude. Though a man of your conviction and skill could be very useful to me, as such I hope to eventually change your mind. While I will not go out of my way to do so, mond you." the silver haired goddess replies. "Though I do feel you have earned, and are worthy of a simple boon... what would you desire?"

>>13059711

dont fuck this up just because you you want to be lolindependant

shes offering us a boon, dont spit in her face

>>13059596
I like where this man is going.

>>13059744
Hmmm. I don't even know what kinds of things we could ask for.

>>13059744

fix kyrias shoulder?

keep collin alive?

super earth powers?

>this is the second time Kaufmann has been in my captcha
>what are you trying to tell me internet?

>>13059744

>Fuck yes.

Should we ask for help in curing collins or GIANT BIRDS?

>fix kyrias shoulder?

>keep collin alive?

One or both of these, if we can.

>>13059747
problem with a boon though is she will probably want something in return. got to be careful who we owe favors to and what kind of gifts we receive.

>noting drastic, but you have pretty good range, and its not like overstepping it will loose you the boon, decide and ask.

>>13059795

Urgh.

>Raynha, Lady of the Estate. this goddes loined her husband in taking up arms against the Pantheon of the Moon during the schism, defending the battered Nyeteri and Sunrise Hall from the ravaging forces of the Pantheon of Moon. she holds domain over earth, loyalty and stability. Sending forth the spirits of fallen warriors to aid those who fight to maintain a righteous cause, or defending the lives and livelihoods of the innocent and defenseless.

It's fallen warriors instead.

Giant Birds are the domain of Danarius

>>13059744
Part of me thinks we should ask if she could help us punish the Uurlanthians with the use of the spirits of fallen warriors but I don't think that's a simple boon.

It kind of feels like a waste to use on Collin in the sense that it seems he will recover fine in time, while Kyria might be a worthwhile investment. It is our fault she got injured like she did and we owe it to her to help her if we can. Alternatively, do something about the tattoos Laelith has?

>>13059819
I agree, though Collin has priority over Kyria if we can only fix one.

>>13059795
Getting Valkyrie aerial support would make for great recon, and it would help since we're close to losing our own cavalry mercs.

But Collin is our good friend, and a great infantry asset.
This is a hard choice.

>>13059853
She holds domain over loyalty, so I'm leaning towards using the boon to help one of our retinue. Just not sure which... All of them are a hard choice.

>>13059744

SO, ask her to keep collin alive in addition to some warriors from her spirit host

>>13059842
>>13059869
>get rid of Laelith's tattoos
Hmm...remove vestigial hold over one of our retinue, and Raynha gets to spit on the Succubus Queen. Something that both of us want.

>>13059842

But Collin is dying, last we saw him.

>>13059819

We could combine them into something simple:

"That my friends be whole and hale."


>Fucking captcha, I do not speak 'Flower'

>>13059883
That's asking way too much. It's something simple and lending us her warriors isn't a simple thing. It's just wishful thinking on my part.

>>13059898
You sure? I could of sworn they said he'd be alright.

>>13059842

well then we have to get an accurate estimate of his chances of survival should we use the boon on something else

exactly how serious are his injuries Pax?

>>13059898
>But Collin is dying, last we saw him.
Was he?
I was under the impression that he would have been, if not for the efforts of both of our Life elementalists, and that he was no longer coughing up blood thanks to their efforts.

>>13059819
Now now. We dont want to waste it. The surgeon and Jayne are likely to help Colin make a full recovery, otherwise they would've told us their worries already. Kyria's arm... thats a tricky one, she hasnt been, held back by her handicap yet.

We could ask for All in our camp to heal, old wounds setting themselves, new wounds disappearing like nothing was there.

Or, We could ask for info, on these 'hidden groups' she speaks of, know the location of 'The Widow' the escaped wife of Khalless.

We could have all of our elementalist's powers boosted, the surgeons ability to heal and save raised exponentially.

>>13059913
>>13059908

The way i read it was that he was in critical condition. Medical science isn't really that advanced in this type of era so I'm assuming the worst.

Ask if she can heal both Collin and Kyrias, or if that would be too much to ask.

Be polite, we might be able to get both.

>>13059933
Can we get a confirmation on Collin's on if he's going to be fine with time or he has a chance of dying?

>"That my friends be whole and hale."

I vote for this.

>>13059917
> We could ask for All in our camp to heal, old wounds setting themselves, new wounds disappearing like nothing was there.

If we can get this, it would be awesome.

Hell, it might actually help us convince the mercs to stay, if suddenly our wounded were miraculously healed.

>>13060013

Then again super earth powers means this campaign is ours.

Who needs engineers when you can just create your own castle with a snap of your finger?

SO, super earth powers and everyone in our camp is healed of past and present injuries

>>13060017
It'd be a huge morale boost! The old stablehand that tends to the pack animals, rising in the morning to find his bum leg feels as good as new, Another soldier's hunting injury, that almost cost him his eye, appears as if it never happened, and more importantly, a captain awakes to rub the sleep from her eyes, with both hands...

Asking for major healing for an entire maniple might be pushing it for a minor boon. And the more we ask, the more we'll be in her debt.

>>13060064
Question being.

Can the gods mess with Elementalists?
what if they cant grant us that power?

"I have several friends in need of aid" you reply, tenatively "Collin McManerhan was grievously wounded in the last battle, and while he lives I am unsure as to how he will recover. Kyria Esfelda was wounded due to my inability to aide her. And Finally Laelith Desteerioth, she is scarred and marked, which is causing her great emotional pain. I humbly request that these three friends of mine be made whole again."

The goddess' eyes become milky and distant for a moment before she replies "The one you know as Kyria will be easy to aid, as such the next embrace you share with her will be the cure to her wounds. Collin... your healers will make stellar progress with him in the next three days, and he will be whole again. As for Desteerioth... I have reason to wish her seen to the banks opposite the bleak coast, but I see that you have changed her for the better. I cannot bring myself to aid her directly, but I will ease your search for a cure to that which ails her. Now, I have a feast to oversee; I bid you farewell." she motions towards the door you entered through.

>>13060087

then we just have to free more slaves and continue to be awesome once we join the main offensive of uurlanth

>>13060098

She holds domain over earth.

I think she'll be able to help us out.

>>13060013
approved

>>13060114
Give our deepest thanks and leave. Let's not push our luck anymore at this point.

>>13060114
I suppose that is the best we could have hoped for.

By your leave, m'lady.

>>13060114

That went well at least.

Now to be a hugging monster.

Pax, can we leave a message, ask for her to help convey our thanks to Nyetini and Eago for shielding our companions.

>>13060114
thank her, bow and excuse ourselves.

>>13060114
"Oh? Not asking a guest to stay for dinner? I'll suppose I'll have to hold you to a meal sometime." With a Wink and a Smile.
Because We're Justinian Trentz

>>13060141
Heh, if we had the chance to ask questions I'd want to ask why the first emperor and the mage king were with her in the vision we saw. Too bad we're not getting that chance.

>>13060150
Pic is now Justinian.

>>13060150
She's married dude. We do not do that to her. That's asking for an annoyed god.

>>13060150

shes married to the good fire god

that will not end well

>>13060168

We could play it off and get them back together again.

We'd have 2 gods in our debt. /trollface.jpg

>>13060150
She might find it funny. Her husband might find it funny as well but odds are he will toast us.

>>13060150
instead, how about we make an offering of some of our food tonight at dinner. we don't need to draw any attention, just take a little extra food back to our tent and make a quiet offering. we are not offering anything big, just showing our appreciation.

>>13060182

Wrong gods.

>oops

Lets not then.

>>13060168
Oh the Good god marriage, right. Thought most of the marriages were broken up...

I keep thinking we shoud go for it anyway, if at least to gain more interaction.

"Then I extend to you my deepest thanks, and humbly request that you would convey that thanks to Eago and Nyetini for shielding my companions." you reply, the goddess nods an affirmative and takes her leave. You return to the room you woke up in, unsure of how you will return to the mortal realm from here, but your thoughs are jumbled by a sudden exhaustion, and the bed looks ever so comfortable. Before you know it you are lying abed and dozing off.

You awaken in your tent, rested and ready for the day to come. You apply a thin layer of paste to your eyes, and leave our tent.
>so, mercs, Lena or Kyria then?

>>13060205
Mercs first, then Lena, then Kyria.

>>13060205

kyria first, deffinitely

then lena

>>13060205
Kyria I say. Hers should be the quickest to do.

>>13060205

Kyria. Then mercs.

Kyria, then the mercs.

We could offer a 20% increase to their fees for the remainder of the campaign to extend the contract.

>>13060205
I think mercs first. That's the most vital.

You leave your tent and look around, you seem to have awoken early. You hear a sigh from the tower, a rather familiar one at that. You walk up the tower too see Kyria leaning against the towers wall, elbow on the opening, facing east and waiting for a sunrise that wont come for another day. You can envision the pout on her face perfectly, and it brings a smile to your face to know how obliterated that pout will be in a few moments. "Good morning... Justinian" the dwarf sighs out still facing east.

"that face simply wont do." you reply, Kyria turns around, looking confused "Your pout is cute, but I prefer your smile by far." you explain, Kyrias mask of confusion deepens, so you step in to hug her.

A light brown luminosity becomes apparent at the dwarfs shoulder. You back away in time to see her features overtaken by a joyous shock "Wh- bu... how did you?" before you can reply she catches you in an incredibly tight embrace. It feels like she's trying to lift you up almost...

Mercs. Offer to increase their fee and give them access to better equipment, armor, whatever. They're half of our cavalry, we can't really afford to lose them at this point. Especially with those elves still unscathed.

>>13060342
"Don't worry about the how. Regardless, it was the least I could do for getting your arm to be like that in the first place Kyria." And hug her back.

>>13060342
Hug back our spunky Dwarf, enough to lift her off the ground instead.
"I won a few favors, and thought of you."

>>13060342
Explain that we got a favor from the powers that be.

>>13060383

This. My god, this.

rolled 37 = 37

Pax, I realize this is meta-gaming but sadly if you go back and read last nights thread you will see I and TRO were having a dispute over the overall success of our last mission. Would you mind letting us know or was the "needing proper and current intel" stating that if we wanted to know, we have to find out ourselves?

Also, I kind of would like to speak with the mercs before Kyria just throwing that out there. I don't want to keep them waiting any longer and it would be good to be on good terms with them still when we see them. Making them impatient and what not might not aide our current position in wanting to keep them on.

>>13060383
do it

rolled 8 = 8

>>13060383
Ah, already seeing kyria, oh well, do this.

You reciprocate her hug, lifting up as you do so. Kyria lets out a little shout of surprise and excitement, flailing her feet a little bit before you set her down "I earned a few favors and thought of you." you reply honestly, but cryptically.

"F-from who? how?" she asks, her wits finally returning to her

"It doesnt matter, so dont worry about it. I did tell you I would see to getting that arm fixed, didnt I?" You ask back, Kyrias contagious smile deepening yours.

"I suppose you did." she states happily. You spend a few more minutes enjoying the glow of the miniature sunrise you just caused before taking your leave and heading to the mercenary camps.

You are intercepted on your way to the camps, however, this time by Finian "Commander, I think I have a plan for one more way we can take advantage of our victory, if you wouldindulge me and my fifteen fastest the last hours of the week." he announces, straight to business.

rolled 99 = 99

>>13060486
"Let's hear it then."
Continue walking to mercs while conversing with Finnian.

>>13060486

of course finian, just follow me to the merc camps s i can finish some business there and then we can get right to it

>>13060486

"Then let's hear it, Finian. You'll always have my ear."

>>13060486
"walk and talk Finian. I'm listening."

"I always have time for my captains ideas, and you know that Finian. Lets hear it." you reply, motioning for him to follow you.

"We need solid numbers on the enemies troops. With their camp in disarray I think if I were to lead my best men we could easily get a nearly exact count on them, and be back before the next true midday." he replies, its odd really. Ever since his breakdown and recovery he has been thinking on a tactical level nearly as deep as yours... not that the increase in skills are unwanted.

>>13060564
Sounds good.

Then we really need to talk with the mercs.

>>13060564
Part of me thinks a god might be involved with this but I have no solid basis. Maybe he just is a prodigy.... Wait. What if that cowardly god is influencing him...

>>13060589
Nevermind. Finian isn't treacherous or self-serving. Paranoia unjustified. Just tell him to be damn careful since they might have the NV paste as well.

>>13060564
"Take whatever you need Finian, Horses, armor, longbows, whatever. Here's an idea too, on your leave, set traps, Everywhere.

That way, when you bring me those exact numbers, we can assume they're already lower! Ha!"

>>13060589

The cowardly god would never risk himself.

>>13060564

How do you intend to evade their patrols. We don't know if they enemy has found out about the NV paste.

Crap, I'm actually thinking we might not want to send him out... If they have NV paste, that means they can use their valks again. Any infantry unit on the plains will get ripped by them at that point.

>>13060606
>they dont. it doesnt work that way. by the time they put the fires out it would have dissipated from the corpses eyes, and since they were preoccupied with putting fires out all of your men got away scott free.

"Excellent plan, be careful though, friend." you reply as you approach the mercenary tents. You hear Finian whistle behind you, and within moments the sounds of a group leaving out the front gate are obvious to you.

As you approach the tents, you see captains Dorias and Glenth sitting at a fire quietly talking. The human looks up as you approach and salutes "We need to talk about this contract, and my ability to hold up on my end." the aged human replies, looking quite nervous.

>>13060667
Should we renegotiate the contracts to relegate the merc cavalry units to non-combat roles? Their numbers are reduced to the point where I wouldn't want to use them in battle, but they can still be useful as scouts and messengers.

>>13060667
Ability? Or willingness?

>>13060667

"Indeed my friends."

Pass out some small flask of alcohol we should have on us.

"Let me first begin by saying I have very pleased with your performance on this campaign. You and your men and elves have performed admirably and I will be writing to commend your units when this campaign is concluded."

Pax, how much hard cash do we have left?

>>13060691
I like this idea, lets run it by them and see what they say

>>13060691
We might really, really need them against those elven archers. Fast cavalry are so far the only way we have of reaching them.

Also, because Pax is ruling that cavalry can now run down fleeing infantry, we really want to hold on to ours. Otherwise that ruling will actually hurt us even more instead of helping us.

>>13060707
also give our condolences for their fallen

rolled 16 = 16

>>13060691
That was the consensus yesterday, I'm still for it. See if we can renegotiate by regulating their men as only garrison/scouts/non-combat regular units now. We understand their situation and am sad for their losses, but we don't want to lose our capability to use them for other things. DO NOT LET THEM KNOW WE NEED THEM BADLY, that is a no-no, and will most likely ask for an increase of pay, they are mercs after all.

>>13060691
Sounds good. Take them off the front lines for now. They don't have the numbers or morale for an actual fight.

"You need not worry about me giving you a black mark." you reply honestly, considering your flask, but as you havent even had your morning meal yet that may send these men the wrong message. "I could still use you in non-combat roles, as scouts, and messengers. Of course, for a reasonable dip into my arsenal I may still have combat uses for you both." you reply, being careful not to play your hand or give to much away.

"Define, reasonable." the elf requests, interested in your offer, judging by his body language and tone.

rolled 93 = 93

>>13060807
Well, first off, while we may not use your men for assaults any more, I would like you to be a constant garrison as well as scouts when needed. Have a constant patrol up and such. Even with your diminished numbers, you both can have decent sized patrols around this area and inform me of oncoming troops. Also, those elven archers are a pain in my arse. IF we do engage the enemy again, I want you to exit the back of our fort and circle around perhaps a mile or so, after getting a good visual on their formation and depending on the situation, run down and out their elven archers. I understand the risk this runs and am willing to pay in compensation for such a danger. Most likely however, the Uursan cavalry troop will also be aiding you in this endeavor.

>>13060854
A mile is a fair distance, they wont need that much with the NVPaste.

>>13060807
What is a reasonable dip? Should we let them arm all their remaining men in our salvaged gear?

>>13060927
Seeing as both of them combined only have 50 men between them, I think that's doable.

>>13060927

We can arm them with the weapons. We do have enough to spare.

Less so for the armours.

>>13060961
Unfortunately good armor is probably what they really want given the losses they've been taking.

>>13060927
>>13060947
I almost doubt that they could put a dent in our armory except for the armor which they may put a dent in.

>>13060961

I think we can spare enough to equip 50 men. Besides, they'll be each looking for different kinds of armor in all likelihood. The RapidRiders will probably lean toward something lighter than the Raiders.

rolled 92 = 92

I don't mind letting them see to the armory within reason. The armor should be fine to let them use. Upgrading all of the cavalry horsemen into fully plated, charging, killing machines is a good idea, and helping the elves out isn't that bad of an idea either. First, their opinion though.

"As the two of you only have 40 soldiers between the two of your units, no more than you would need to fully equip all of your men. And you would be a constant garrison and patrolling unit at this fort. The only combat i may require of you would be to leave the fort whenever the enemy attacks, and when they retreat you will be tasked with running down their elven archers. You will most likely receive support from house Garlians Uursan cavalry as soon as they catch up." you reply, hoping that you wont loose the cavalry you hired.

"What if you are ordered to advance from this fort after the campaign?" Dorias asks he seems to be favoring your offer.

I see no problem with giving them more armor. With enemy elven specops running around outside, those cavalry mercs will need all the protection they can get.

>>13061002

Contract concluded?

I'd say let them go home. We'll need fresh units for the push and we should be allowed to replenish our numbers.

rolled 15 = 15

>>13061002
I severely doubt that the upper command would order us to do anything, considering our men are all at about only 3/4 operating numbers and we were told ahead of time that the offensive would be lead by a fully refreshed Legion. If anything we might have to sit on our asses a little longer while we switch out after the campaign is finished. When I say campaign, I mean the fact that we were only tasked with defending this area.

>>13061002
If we are ordered to advance and abandon this fort, then we can negotiate a new contract, for scouting and combat messenger services. Also, the current contract would be successfully completed, so they could go back to replenish their numbers instead.

>>13061002
Our hope is that everyone, mercenaries included, will have an opportunity to rest and resupply following this campaign. If we are ordered to move forward, however, we would expect all our forces to go with us- though of course we will restrict their units to reasonable duties befitting their current combat capacities.

>>13061002
"You'll be allowed to leave if you wish once our contract is up. You can continue to campaign with us if you desire, however, and you will likely still be used in a conservative manner. I rather not have a reputation of having the mercenary units I hire be used as cannon fodder."

>>13061002
Keep them on as scouts. And for mopping up stragglers. No major fighting.

Though hopefully we will have reinforcements by then.

rolled 86 = 86

Also, I was wondering. After this, if we could erect walls outside of ours about 50 yards out farther to increase the size of our fort for a number of reasons.
A) We would have a fall back position if we were to be overrun.
B) The offensive Legions maniples might need this as a staging ground and having an already larger area to be garrisoned helps them out and makes us look better
C) We could mislead the elven archers in their harassment so that they would fire at our outer walls instead of our actual garrisoned area. We would also have to keep a small guard there not exposed as well as dummies to make it looked manned to the elven archers.

If you have ever seen Commanders and Generals it is similar to the tactic used where they doused the lights on the back of their ship and had a small floating decoy with the lights lit in the same position about 25 yards behind their ship and they let it go and the other ship chased after that one instead while they turned about and got away..

>>13061085
It's from Master and Commander.

"At the moment I doubt that that would happen. But if it did I would hope that all units are given a chance to replenish and rest. If not, I would consider your contract fulfilled, as I would rather not gain a reputation for using mercenaries as fodder. Though there is quite a bit of plunder to be had if you choose to continue to operate for me in whatever limited manner your forces are able to." you reply, trying to make the last portion of the new contract as good as you can.

Both captains look at each other before Kurt turns to you "We'll be at your armory with our men by noon."

>I'm pretty damn tired and have class at 8am so I'm gonna call it for tonight.
>I'll be back wednesday at 9pm server time
>someone archive please
>if you have any setting/random-ass questions you wanna ask just hit this e-mail: paxcomquest@yahoo.com

rolled 71 = 71

>>13061121
oops, and yeah, Master and Commander

Thread archived. Think we should hit up Janos next thread guys? Or maybe talk to Kaitlyn first since she seems the most cooperative.

>>13061181
Sounds good.

Also, steal Laelith's robes.

>>13061126

Thanks for the session again Pax.

>>13061181

Kaitlyn first I guess. We could do with the boost in trying to convince him.

Do we have anything else on the agenda to do?

>>13061207
Chat up Lena and see if she's staying or leaving. Plan a way to take advantage of our victory. Elementalism training if we wait a day or two I guess.

Think we should arm our hunters with the longbows we picked up? Assuming they aren't already armed with them. I should check that.

>>13061231
Nevermind. They are already armed with longbows. So that won't help us with range against the elves... Hmm.

On the agenda:

1. Talk to Lena, see if she intends to stay.
2. Talk to Janos/Kaitlyn, continue trying to turn them.
3. Check up on Collin, see how he's doing.
4. Steal Laelith's robes, leave her sashes and one extremely revealing robe for her to confront us in.

Depending on what intel Finian comes back with this might change.

I've gone through the archives and done my best to update and touch up the enemy force estimates. The pikes were the biggest change.

Pikemen #1: 129/200

Pikemen #2: 117/200

Levied Swordsmen: 200/300

Footslogging Men-at-Arms: 70/150
(Heavy armor, shields, and maces)

Knights: 55/100
(Valkeries and horses)

Elven Archers: 270/300
(500 yard range, man accurate at 250 yards)

Longbowmen: 80/200

Medium Mercenaries #1: 80/200
(Humans, scalemail and axes)

Medium Mercenaries #2: 55/150
(Humans, mail shirts, kite shields, and longswords)

Heavy Mercenaries: 75/150
(Dwarves, plate armor and great hammers)

rolled 94 = 94

>>13061703
you still don't have the updated stats from the assault force, that is what Uurist is doing right now by the way.

>>13062319
No, Finian is.

rolled 13 = 13

>>13062385
oops, Finian, my bad, either way, this will clear up the dispute that we did "horrible" on that offensive maneuver

> Pikemen #1: 129/200
> Pikemen #2: 117/200

Argh. That's going to smart. If memory serves they were each more than a match for a Legionary battalion. And with them serving as meat shields for those elven archers, that formation could probably slaughter our entire maniple. We just wouldn't have anything that we could break it with.