Hmm. In theory Lennis is on the tighter schedule, especially if his family is still here. Let's go see what he needs first.

>>16648335
Seconded, meet Lennis.

>>16648335
A good point. He has a Ghorat to run after all.

>>16648335
I gotta agree with this. Lennis is probably gonna leave soon and its best to see him off and give a fond farewell.

As you bite into an apple, you make your way over to the vohzd "Lennis, my friend, I trust you enjoyed your visit?"

The man nods, laughing a bit "Very much so, your peoples traditions are strange... but entertaining. I must confess that I would never allow myself to be dressed as a woman, however."

You chuckle "It is tradition, and when your wife does not want her dress ruined it is much easier to get her to the bed, no matter what you do during the feast."

The big kharynchek man shakes his head "You are as brave off the field of battle as you are on, Trentz."

Smirking you reply "I am happy to recieve the compliment, and look forward to the time we may next meet."

The vohzd laughs "Why separate? You leave to raid your foes, and I could easily have a force meet yours, if you would have us."

>>16648500
"If you can spare the men, I'd be glad to have them along. I imagine there might be a bit of siege warfare but I can think of a use for your men."

>>16648500
Does he want to come with us by ship or over land? I think we were told by the praetorian that going over land would be too hard for our group. It might be fine for his riders though.

>>16648621
We need to go over our plans for the trip. By ship we can arrive faster but I could not like to get catch in a storm or in a naval battle. Better talk with Karythria, Danarius and Eago about it.

>>16648500
I say let them come along. Find out if they would rather ride overland or sail with us.

You smile "I would very much like to have you assistance on this coming campaign, though, I do not know if you would be able to muster your men in time to meet us in Flumenos."

The vohzd chuckles "Justinian, my friend, we are Kharynchek, fast riders, and sharp of eye. My fifty best will meet you with the breaking of the siege of Estrok. If the rumors about your barracks are correct, you will not be within the city until you are prepared to break the siege. I will take a charge once your standard is on the wall as my signal to make my presence known... unless you have a better plan, Commander."

>>16648826
I have no problems with his plan. Can't think of anything better at the moment so we'll just go with it.

If he's done, I suggest we hit up the ghosts next.

>>16648826
Sounds fine with me

>>16648826
Sounds like a nice idea to me. He just has to make sure his riders aren't spotted by the Uurlantians until the time is right. If he can do that they should be able to run down a fair number of enemy soldiers when the siege is broken.

>>16648997
- Find out from the 1st how free we should be with our tech and the Duchy. Not so much the repeaters and autowagons since we're still keeping that to his fist but more the rune crafting Kyria is doing. I imagine the Duchy will be VERY interested in that.

Since we are a week or so away from leaving DragonsReach we should make a list of things to get done before we leave. Here's what I was thinking. Feel free to add shit to it.

*Give Laeliths archive teams things to look into while we are gone
--Find more information on the seventh praetorians of the past. They should see which ones were successful and if we can adopt any of their policy's, ideas, or tactics.
--Have the team search for more tomes and information on elementalism, magic, and the arcane arts.
--Have the team search for more information on were-beasts

*bring some waste rock from mining operations with us on the sea voyage so we can still practice elementalism.

You nod "The plan is sound, I will see you with the breaking of the siege, my friend."

Lennis nods, and clasps your arm, a gesture you return "Until then, my friend." and at that, he turns to leave your dining hall. YOu meander the barracks for a time, until you find captain Helmenu of the Clarish ghosts.

The elf pushes off from the tree he was leaning against "Ah, commander, I trust you slept well, and are prepared to discuss with me a contract?"

>>16649021
"Of course, although if you don't mind me asking, what bandits were hunting your band down, how badly was your unit injured and did you take care of them?"

>>16649021
"Yes, now would be a perfect time. How long of a long term contract did you have in mind?"

>>16649021
I think we should offer him a contract, but not a long term one that he asked for. I was thinking a medium term contract, a 3-4 campaign thing. Its more flexible for both parties.

Also, ask him about mercs in Flumenos after you agree on the contract. Any bands he would recommend we pick up for dealing with the siege and the ironcoast Lords.

>>16649128
Any reason why you don't want to do a long-term contract with them?

>>16649020
On top of what I said in >>16649015, we should also get ourselves a healthy supply of pitch. That stuff will probably be useful.

>>16649121
Yes, ask about the bandits too. A mercenary band being attacked by bandits sounds a bit suspicious if you ask me. That slumlord and Borus Reshkai are in Flumenos as well...

>>16649137

I can think of 2 campaigns where we will really need them; this and maybe the one where we hunt Loukys. The rest of the time I think Blackbirds crew is more than enough for scouting and ambushing.

Furthermore, a long term contract means these guys are tied with us for a long time. If we keep them around we will have some redundant units, draining our cash. I just feel its tactically more flexible to give em a medium term contract.

>>16649240
Not so sure about that. Removing their stealth skills, do remember the unit is full of elven bowmen. How many times have we raged over the range and damage of elven bowmen? Now we'd have a unit of them for our own in the long term. Furthermore, I see their addition to the maniple as making Blackbird's ambushing even more dangerous. His unit and the ghosts working together would be a terror for our enemies. Besides, with all the air units we're likely going to face, having more ranged units isn't a bad idea.

You smile and return the mercenaries sloppy salute as you reply "Of course. What sor t of long term contract did you have in mind? And, if you dont mind my asking, what sort of bandits were harrying you on your way here?"

The captian chuckles "I suppose that 'cult' would be a more apt descriptor" he replies, tossing you a scrap of skin, the icon of the Forge of New Divinity emblazoned on it "From one of our pursuers, or, at least a leader among them. We liked the heir to our favorite Emperors tactics when dealing with this scum." he offhandedly remarks.

You sigh "They may have ;mostly withdrawn from activity of late, though they still go out of their way to harry me. How many?"

"Five that bore this mark, the rest were hired bandits and mercenaries." the captain replies "I have 80 elves left, to my service."

You nod "And, your desires for a contract?"

The captain smirks "Rumor has it that you have been tasked with forming not only the corps to seek out those with arcane talent, but were-creatures and other ancient beasts as well. I was thinking that my elves would be well suited to training and working with this corps, as well as helping with your camps security while you campaign."

>>16649287
Can't disagree about that. We've been picking up mostly lineholders and cavalry lately and some good elven archers would be a boon.

rolled 6 = 6

>>16649287
>>16649305
>>16649345
Well, it looks like we have a better placement for them now to be honest where he wants to be. It's almost as if we have a Guild Lands sponsored unit to be honest.

>>16649305
Their skills could indeed prove useful in hunting down individuals such as were-creatures in the future.

>>16649305
"The skill of your archers would be quite the asset to such a unit. I've encountered some of those ancient beasts of old thanks to the Uurlanth... I would be glad to have you and your men on a long-term contract."

I see no reason to refuse honestly. Same contract as the one we gave the skywings? Not sure if that's reasonable or not honestly.

>>16649399
A long term contract sounds good.

I was thinking we should start out with a contract that lasts the rest of the war (or a few campaigns, whichever comes first) and after the war is over we reevaluate how much they will be needed.

You nod "This would be a most agreeable contract. Should we say, standard pay for retainers of a noble house?"

Captain Helmenu smiles "1 dragoon a month per man? And 4 four officers? most. After all these centuries it will be nice to have a place away from the front lines."

You sigh "With some of the beasts that are returning, those men you assign to the hunting forces will not see much of a difference. And the men acting as camp guards for my campaign forces..."

Helmenu shrugs "The younger, less war-weary can have those posts. Those few of us that have been in the unit from the beginning will teach and guard your holdings. Not a bad end for the Clarish Ghosts, in my mind. Thank you, Dominu." he replies, still smiling.

You grin "I should be thanking you, my friend. Now, what do you know of the mercenaries of Flumenos?"

The elf shrugs "Light infantry and raiders mostly. The dregs of the Empires mercenaries, not lacking for skill, but restraint and honor..."

>so, where to now? or timeskip to Flumenos?

>>16649399
I was thinking "something like the contract like we did with Jayne but cheaper", but like the Skywings contract is fine too

>>16649536
No, we still have to hire a few guy here and check the supplies and I think I am missing something else.

>>16649536
I say see if we can ask the 1st about if we should help the Duchy with runecrafting or not and then hit the mercs up on the way back. If Flumenos has light inf and raiders mostly, we'll probably want heavier troops for the likely sieges.

And in theory, we should decide if we're going to bring the twins since we have to leave for Flumenos soon.

>>16649536
>The elf shrugs "Light infantry and raiders mostly. The dregs of the Empires mercenaries, not lacking for skill, but restraint and honor..."

Yeah... Let's hire what we can here. I'm thinking that we'll need Lacerta troops, possibly light infantry, but they'll need to be disciplined units, lest we draw the attention of the knightly orders due to overly aggressive looting while in Uurlanth.

>>16649597

I'm personally with you on this, Max. I think we ought to bring the chatty one. Consensus seems to be leaving them both at the dungeons though.

>>16649536
Revised list of things we might want to do before we leave Dragons Reach.


*Give Laeliths archive teams things to look into while we are gone
--Find more information on the seventh praetorians of the past. They should see which ones were successful and if we can adopt any of their policy's, ideas, or tactics.
--Have the team search for more tomes and information on elementalism, magic, runes, and the arcane arts.
--Have the team search for more information on were-beasts
--See if the research team can find how many skeletons/zombies/undead the necromances of the past were able to control

*bring some waste rock from mining operations with us on the sea voyage so we can still practice elementalism.

* Find out from the 1st how free we should be with our tech and the Duchy.

*Find a healthy supply of pitch

*hire more mercs

*have Janos buy farms and so we can grow the ingrediants for moonseye paste.

*purcahse mines and collect refuse rock (it's easier to use with earth elementalism)

If we can spare the funds, I still like to start a field medicae unit. We'll be campaign abroad. Attrition will become a serious issue, as we cannot replace our losses until we return home. Field medics will mitigate that problem.

I still like someone to work on parachutes. Since the very idea sends Degrian into a fit, let's see if our Valk wing captain is interested. He's the one with the most to gain from working parachute tech.

Hey guys, remember we found an arcane smith in those devastated units that we got the extra mages from?

we should see what kind of stuff he's learned to make or could attempt to make!

>>16649701
I will agree to this but we do need to hear the 1st's opinion on the runesmithing at some point. If the Duchy get any hints of Kyria's work, they're going to be all over us wanting to see it.

>>16649701
Good idea. Lets send a message to the academy and ask how he is doing and a general status report how things are going in general. We should ask about the former governors son as well.

The academy is going to need find many more teachers real quickly as well, with all the new students they will be receiving.

For mercs, I think we should get some Lacerta troops this time, even if it means bringing torches. They could save our asses when it comes to fighting in the swamps.

>>16649765
Pax noted in the IRC channel that this campaign is going to be during the winter. I don't know if we're going to want Lacerta in this case.

>>16649721
Dutchey wants runesmithing info?

We'll accept payment for this info in gold, gems, books, and pardons for any and all dwarves under our command that are banned from the Dutchey.

>>16649698
I'm for starting a field medic group, if we have the time.

parachutes might have to wait...

>>16649536
Let's see that merc list again, Pax. We're assuming that the list is changed slightly, since some units got hired last time.

You thank your newest retainer and depart into the barracks again. Before long, you have a runner on his way to the office of the first, as well as your arcane academy, while you set out with Sansa to peruse the Nobles Causeway for mercenaries a second time. By midday, you again have lists gathered before you, and are considering which units to hire.
>Requisition funds:37500
-Dyrol Mymidons 200
chainmail, longswords, circleshields
++++
-
6000
-Damians Chosen 150
Splintmail, Longswords, Kite Shields
+++++++
8000
-Blackstone Reavers 200 Lacerta
Leathers, Hand axes, war picks
+++
--
4000
-Destron Shock Brigade 200 Lacerta
Leathers, battle axes
++++
-
4500
-Kestrin Raiders 175
Chainmail, combat axes, throwing axes, heater shields
+++
--
4000
-The Unshakables 200
Platemail, Kite shields, Combat Axes
+++
----
4000
-Terian Feathers 100
Longbows, glaives, cloths
+++
-
5000
-Keth Shades 150 Lacerta
Punchdagers, Javelins, leathers
+++++
--
5250
-Zentas Snipers 75 Dwarves
Crossbows, Pavise, shortswords
+++
6000
-Durian Bowmen 250
Shortbows, cutlasses, chestplates
++++
-
5750
-Petral Riders 50 Lacerta
Velociprey, Lances, scalemail, longswords, heater shields
+++++
-
15000
-Hornum Chargers 50
Horses, Plate Armor, lances, combat axes, circle shields
+++
-
9500
-Terian Strikers 50
Horses, leathers, javelins, maces
++++
11000
-Dorsa Chargers 50
Horses, scalemail, lances, longswords, heater shields
+++++
12000

We should also find out how Kyria is progressing on the flaming steel rain deployment system.

>>16649897
We're in for a lot of combat and potentially siege combat. I think we should pick up a bunch more infantry.
Dyrol Mymidons 6000
Damians Chosen 8000
The Unshakables 4000
Zentas Snipers 6000

Total: 24000

Leaves the rest for buying pitch and some additional siege equipment that Degrian can modify on our way down.

I present two plans:

W/Lacertas:

Blackstone Reavers
Destron Shock Brigade
Keth Shades
Petral Riders

Without lacertas:

Damians Chosen
Kestrin Raiders
The Unshakables
Zentas Snipers
Durian Bowmen

>>16650010
I personally prefer the Raiders over the Mymidons because they have larger shields and axes seem to be a better weapon for what we'll be fighting in melee (lots of velociprey cavalry and heavy infantry).

Just some ideas I have about the merc units

-Hornum Chargers 50 ---------------------------------- lances might work well against the mounted knights we encounter
Horses, Plate Armor, lances, combat axes, circle shields
+++
-
9500

-Kintra Linebreakers 50 ------------------------------- more uursan are always nice
Uursan, spears, longaxes, scalemail, kite shields
++++
--
10000

-Dorsa Chargers 50 ---------------------------------- lances might work well against the mounted knights we encounter
Horses, scalemail, lances, longswords, heater shields
+++++
12000

-Petral Riders 50 Lacerta -------------------------- velociprey are always useful when dealing with horses
Velociprey, Lances, scalemail, longswords, heater shields
+++++
-
15000

-Damians Chosen 150 ------------------------------ another front line unit couldn't hurt
Splintmail, Longswords, Kite Shields
+++++++
8000

-Keth Shades 150 Lacerta -------------- might be useful for independent raiding of the countryside with blackbird
Punchdagers, Javelins, leathers
+++++
--
5250
Leathers

-Zentas Snipers 75 Dwarves ----------- could be useful for taking down high profile people like mages or enemy commanders, or mounted units.
Crossbows, Pavise, shortswords
+++
6000

>>16650032
seconding the Lacerta-less list

Blackstone Reavers
Petral Riders
The Unshakables
Zentas Snipers

Good infantry for the siege combat and good against heavy armor foes we will be facing.

>>16650032
I'm still an advocate of no Lacertas since I don't want to worry about any temperature problems. I'd also cut out the Durian Bowmen since they have shortbows and that's probably not going to be overly useful on the offense.

If you cut out the bowmen, I'll go with your non-Lacertas list. Overall, I'm against hiring too much cavalry since they're less useful during a siege and the swampy terrain in that one city will neuter their effectiveness as well. Any leftover money from bargaining and what's left should be used on pitch and siege equipment.

>>16650120
>>16650120

The cold is not a big problem with the torches and we also have fire elementalists.We shouldn't be constantly afraid to use Lacertas because they might get cold.

>>16650168
Were winter not approaching and the Uurlanth didn't have elementalists galore and thus water elementalists, I would agree. Not sure if we want that potential complication in this situation.

>>16650093
... We can't afford all that, mang. :)

Nay on horse cavalry. The enemy will be fielding almost nothing but velociprey cavalry. Merc horse cavalry won't be able to handle it.

Max, what if we hired just one Lacerta unit, just to try them out? I think the Shades have promise.

Damians Chosen
Kestrin Raiders
The Unshakables
Zentas Snipers
Keth Shades

Zentas Snipers
Damians Chosen
The Unshakables


We should still consider Petral Riders and their velociprey for their ability to frighten horses. I was thinking we could wipe down the velociprey with rags enough so that they would acquire their scent. We could then put those rags on other cav units or even some of the non mounted units to freak out the horses.

>>16650243
No love for the Raiders?

>>16650225
Now that I've gone over our roster, I'm tempted to say we grab the velociprey cav after all... But they're damn expensive. I don't know if only two cavalry units will suffice though.

Fuck it, I'll second your list then. Get the damn Lacertans.

>>16650297
Raiders could work well too.

How about this:

We hire these first:
Damians Chosen
Kestrin Raiders
The Unshakables
Zentas Snipers

With the funds left over, we hire the Petral Riders if we can afford it. Otherwise we try for the Keth Shades. Either way we bring just one Lacerta unit. If we roll badly on the haggle rolls we bring no Lacerta.

>>16650331
We'll see about the petral riders. We need some leftover cash to buy pitch and some more siege equipment. All we really have for sieges are some manogels and the larger repeater crossbows. We might need to upgrade.

>>16650331
And Pax, let's keep some gold in reserve for buying pitch. My plan assumes that.

>>16650331
>if thats what you guys want, call and make your haggle rolls

rolled 41 = 41

>>16650331
Rolling Damians chosen.

rolled 25 = 25

Rolling The Unshakables

rolled 75 = 75

Rolling for Kestrin Raiders.

rolled 41 = 41

Rolling for the Zentas Snipers.

Anyone want to make a fifth roll? Or are we going Lacerta-free after all?

Your initial negotiations go quite well. Damians chosen are hired on for 5500, and The Unshakeables for 1500. You hire the Kestrin Raiders for 3500 after a rather lengthy argument with their captain, who strikes you as an incredibly disagreeable person, and finally, the Zentas Snipers agree to accompany you for 3500. You count your dragoons as those four captains head off to gather their soldiers, 23500 coins left for siege equipment and additional mercenaries. Not bad at all.

>>16650565
I think we should skip on the riders. They'll just cost us too much I think and we definitely need pitch but I think we should also get some siege gear. What are the prices for siege equipment and pitch Pax?

I would also like to bring up the idea of buying the materials for siege weapons and having Degrain and his engineering corps build them. We could save a lot of money that way.

>>16650628
I guess Pax can throw in the costs of raw materials but do remember, building will take away time from him designing.

>>16650651
I am sure he has some capable assistants. His siege weapons would also likely be better as well.

>Pitch: 250 dragoons for 10 large jugs
>Average Ram/crew: 5500
>average Balista/crew: 6500
>Average mangonel/crew: 8500
>Average Trebuchet/crew: 9500

>to get siege engines, roll once for quality and once for haggling

Gah, forgott the raw material costs.

assume 2500ish for enough wood/iron for one of Degrians mangonels, about double that for a trebuchet, and 1750 for a Degrian balista

>>16650689
I'm saying we grab 100 jugs of pitch for 2500.

Then get the raw mats for two trebuchets, a manogel designed to toss jugs of pitch and then a ram. Thoughts?

>>16650742
That sounds good to me.

>>16650742
sounds like a deal to me. construction priority should go mangonel>trebuchets>ram if time becomes an issue.

>>16650742

Not so sure about the pitch. We to be careful while transporting it.

>>16650772
It'll be useful for the siege or even just in general combat. I think it's a worthwhile investment.

>>16650742
Wait. What about crew?

>>16650805
We just have to make sure a skilled fire elementalist is nearby to put out any wayward flames.

>>16650827
Pax stated in the IRC that it's apart of the raw mat cost. So we're losing out on time for Degrian to design stuff is the cost of this.

>>16650742
Also, we're going to be on the move. Trebuchets are heavy siege equipment that may slow us down. You can't exactly put one on an auto-wagon without disassembling it first.

I say get one or two more mangonels and a ram.

rolled 98 = 98

Rolling for the Keth Shades.

>so, 100 jugs of pitch, plus supplies for 2 trebuchets, a ram and a mangonel? decide on that, roll for any more mercs than we're movin on

rolled 10 = 10

Dammit. See if we can get the last human merc unit.

Rolling for the Dyrol Mymidons.

Feel free to veto me on the Keth Shades.

>>16650853
Good point... We are the speed is good maniple so we should stick to the manogels I think. The trebuchets will slow us down too much and hopefully we can get some from the Duchy or the king's army that's attacking the city. I say ram, three manogels and the pitch then.

>>16650923
Lets get the Mymidons. Pay for the siege equipment, and see if we have enough money left over for the Keth Shades. Probably not.

>>16650934
But the Blackstone Reavers have more guys and cost less than the Keth Shades.

>so, the new buy is Dyrol Mymridons, the pitch, 4 mangonels and a ram? confirma nd we can move ahead

>>16650978
Meh. We're just "trying them out". Fewer Lacerta means fewer torches means fewer things to go wrong, but if we really want them war picks I have no objections. Also I concede that the Reavers are cheaper.

Reavers usually mean light infantry though. Shades imply they are infiltrators. Might be cool?

Let's see what we can afford I guess. Remember that this is still req funds. Anything left over gets returned to the government.

>>16650923
I'd say grab the myrmidons simply because you rolled awesome on them. Beyond that, let's save our money for having spare cash on hand or Flumenos/Duchy and let's get a move on. And someone support my idea for more manogels so we can keep our speed.

>>16650988
Those, plus Keth Shades, or Blackstone Reavers if we can no longer afford the Keth Shades.

>>16651000
Is our money legal tender in the Duchy? They mint their own coins.

>>16651009
I'm sure we can convert the money. Either way, it's always good to have cash on hand. Especially if we plan to do certain devious things in Uurlanth lands to make ourselves look better.

>>16651009
I remember we have a chest of duchy money from way back so at least we do have some local cash if we need it

>>16650988
Never mind on Keth Shades. Veto received. Confirming this.

You are easilly able to haggle the Dyrol Mercenaries down to 1000 dragoons. You then purchase enough wood and iron for 4 more of Degrians mangonels, and hire on a covered ram, named the "Thundercock" which, despite its rooster-headed arm, and skilled looking crew bragging of incredible disassemblely and assembly times, is wholly unremarkable.

By the time you make it back to your barracks, it is nearly dark, and the first of the mercenaries you hired the other day are ariving. Also back are your runners. Word from the first is that a fair trade, either in arcane secrets, or in the form of more aid for your thrust into Uurlanth is acceptable for the sharing of any knowledge you have on elementalism, runecrafting, and arcanasmithing. From the runner who went to your academy, word is taht your own aercanasmith can create a few enchanted trinkets in a hard days work.

>so, anything else before the timeskip to Flumenos? if not, roll for any during-the-trip tyraining

rolled 30 = 30

>>16651110
I officially state once again we bring the twins. Both of em. For delicious info and potential conversion. Beyond that, I cannot think of anything so I will do a training roll. Combat she will be.

>>16651110
Let's see if the arcanasmith can make something to help in focusing Earth Elementalism?

rolled 40 = 40

>>16651110
I don't think we need anything else other than asking the Preator if we can talk to the Duchy about runesmithing.

rolling for sword fightin trainin

>>16651110

do we have a list of what the arcane smith can make or are we free to try and dream something up?

Personally, I think having him knock out a few useful/tradeable things might be nice. Perhaps some arcanist detection crystals to trade/gift to fellow commanders or Duchey commanders/nobles?

>>16651150
Oops, didn't read the whole thing. My bad

>nclannu shame
yes capcha, I shamed my clan

>>16651110
*Give Laeliths archive teams things to look into while we are gone
--Find more information on the seventh praetorians of the past. They should see which ones were successful and if we can adopt any of their policy's, ideas, or tactics.
--Have the team search for more tomes and information on elementalism, magic, runes, and the arcane arts.
--Have the team search for more information on were-beasts
--See if the research team can find how many skeletons/zombies/undead the necromances of the past were able to control

*bring some waste rock from mining operations with us on the sea voyage so we can still practice elementalism.

* Find out from the 1st how free we should be with our tech and the Duchy.

*have janos look into purchasing "exhausted" mines we could collect refuse rock from (it's easier to use with earth elementalism). With earth elementalism we will be able to locate more ore in the mines.

rolled 18 = 18

>>16651110
The Pitch, Pax. Don't forget the Pitch.

Rolling for elementalism training.

I am in favor of bringing the twins.

We should also have Autronius scan the mercs and see if there are any cult members present. You can never be too careful.

Pax, how much to hire on a field medicae unit? Can we look for suitable people while at Flumenos?

>>16651204
TRO is gonna be mad...

I say bring the chatty one only. She won't dare to escape without her twin sister.

I am voting against bringing the twins.

>>16651219
NO I WON'T, BECAUSE IT'S A TIE! Voting against bringing the twins.

I don't see why we should bring the twins they already told us everything they know. Unless I hear a good reason my vote is no.

No to bringing twins along

>>16651241
They've told us all we need to know now. Who knows what'll happen in the battlefield. Maybe we'll have questions about a specific lord that we need info on or some of the knight orders. Maybe they know things that could help us infiltrate the cities better or disguise people as Uurlanth knights.

And finally because I still think we have a chance of converting them and a way to keep em from being killed by their mistress.

After you set Laeliths scholars to research, you spend your last few days lazing about the city, and training alternately. The journey to Flumenos itself is equally uneventful. Your forms and swordplay become more solid, but nothing truly noteworthy is learned, as you are practicing forms considered 'perfect' by both dwarves and elves, refining your skill takes time.

As far as you elementalism trianing is concerned, it goes extremely well. So well that you learn two new techniques.
>PICK ANY TWO OF THE FOLLOWING:
>SKILL INCREASE: All T1 techniques you have increase in potency
>Terrakenisis:
>Stone Storm: 5-10 stone shards the size of two fingers launched at the foe
>Stone arrow: 15 pound stone shard, sharpened fired at crossbow-bolt speeds
>Sandstorm: kicks up a mild sandstorm within a 15 foot radius around you

>Fissures (T2)
>Field of Spikes: Fill a 10 foot area with wiast-high stione Spikes
>Bladed Earth: Raise a stone spike (half the size of the largest stone spike you can create) with a bladed edge
>Entrenchment: Drop a 3 foot deep, 2 foot wide trench, with a 3 foot high, foot thick, wall in front of it. Up to 5 feet long

>>16651269
I say skill increase and entrenchment.

We need to level up Terrakenisis so I vote for Stone Storm and Stone arrow.

Voting for
>Sandstorm
and
>Field of Spikes
for maximum combo brutality.

>>16651269
>>16651287
Same here, Skill increase and trenches

>>16651269
Skill increase sounds good.

Sandstorm would be useful if we can summon it under an enemy unit instead if just around us.

>2 for skill increase/entrenchment
>1 for skill increase/sandstorm
>1 for sandstorm/spike field

Skill increase and Sandstorm

>>16651328
While it would be, the power specifically states it's a radius around the caster. Otherwise I'd probably agree with you. I figured entrenchment would be a little more useful especially since we're about to enter siege warfare.

>>16651326
Skill increase sounds good.

Entrenchment is tempting. Seems too small scale to be useful imho.

>>16651408
Agreed.

I am going with skill increase and entrenchment.

>>16651419
Jumping on the bandwagon. Skill increase and entrenchment.

>>16651374
Hey Pax, think you could post an updated list of our elementalism abilities and sword forms for future reference?

here ya go
assume any skills that seem redundant are non-improvised and easier to cast/use/whatever you feel like calling it

Earth Elementalism (T2 open)
T1 Fissures:
Stone Spike: combat capable. largest possible 17' L, 7' C
Rend Earth: combat capable. largest possible 26'L,8" W, 10' D
Quake: combat capable. Richter 7 over a 60yd circle
Wall: combat capable. 12' high, 8' wide, 14'long
Impact: combat Capable. 26' C circle instantly drops 8'
Sculpt Stone combat capable. re-shape 200lbs of stone , can affect new forms accurately

T2 Fissures:

T1 Terrakenisis:
Stone Launch: up to 8 rocks double the size of a child's head, baseball pitch speeds

StoneSense:
__passive__ 3 mile area, decent numbers and size of things on the ground in that area. within a half mile rough guess building layouts and materiel, can sense metals within 500 feet

Field of Spikes looks tempting as well, but those velociprey cavalry would probably just jump over them.

I think we have enough votes for skill increase / entrenchment Pax.

>Skill Increase and Entrench it is then.

When you arrive in FLumenos, Your maniple is at the front as you approach the city gates. Despite the nearby enemy forces, the sounds of reverie and debauchery can be heard from inside the walls, and the heady scent of alcohol, Pynra poweder, sex, and every other debased scent wafts towards the column with the breeze. "Home" Aurelius sighs as the columngrinds to a halt.

The gate guard walks up to you, a wooden slate in his hands "And who might you be? I dont think I have anyhting on the list about a bunch'a soldiers on those noisy... contraptions, being cleared to enter the city. We'll be under siege soon, cant be too careful"

Before you can reply, Aurelius is off his horse, mumbling something about prices being to readily advertised in this city before he clasps the mans hand "This is for the column, we on your list now?"

The man looks in his palm, looks to the column, than looks back to Aurelius "I'm not certain, there are certainly allot of you, and-" before he can finish his sentence, Aurelius longknife is at the guards neck.

"I dont care who your boss is, mine is the fucking Midnight Dragon. You are quite lucky that I dont spill your watered-down blood right here for what your trying to pull, fool. Let us in, do it now, and be certain to not harass any of the rest of our column." As the stench of urine seeps towards you afresh, and the gates begin to open, Aurelius climbs onto his jhorse next to you again "I recomend you barracks the men before seeing to your business in this city. Take dock quarters, and keep most of the men confined there. If you leave the barracks, take me with you, please. To outsiders, even you, this city can be lethal."

>>16651672
The man knows what he's talking about. Issue general orders to not be mucking about too much while we're here.

>>16651672
"The governor of the city allows such corruption to run rampant amongst the cities guard? I just hope the men stay in the barracks if we can expect this kind of thing around the city. Especially since I know I have enemies here."

>>16651672
Good gods whatever you say Aurelius.

"Bellatrix, what did you put in his breakfast?"

>>16651703
>>16651696
>>16651694

Seconding these

You sigh "And the governor of this city?"

Jayne laughs at you "The most well payed man in the Empire."

Aurelius nods "Its the slumlords that hold power here, only the docks have a staunch enough dwarf controlling them to keep the city from being purged."

Jayne adds "The logic is that with the worst criminals that cannot be brought to justice gathered in one place, they will do less damage to the Empire as a whole."

Gaius spits "And the guards dare wear crimson. Why would anyone live here?"

Aurelius smiles "The whores are skilled and cheap, as is every other vice one could imagine." this is punctated by the column rolling past a shack, billows of smoke rolling off it, several dwarves twitching and smoking outside, fevered looks on their faces.

"I cant tell if they are my sons age or in their fifth century." Uurist notes sadly.

Aurelius shakes his head "Just wait until you see a Pynra Palace, even worse."

As the column approaches the docks, a stern-faced dwarf, one eye missing, in battered armor approaches the column, his crimsons faded and grimy, but his pockmarked well used armor shined spotlessly. He snaps off an imaculate salute "Commander Trentz, I trust you and your peers arrived safely at my docks? Your barracks are all prepared, and the captains of your ships report that they will be prepared to sail in a weeks time. Would you like me to show you my city within the city?"

Aurelius leans over to whisper in your ear "Captain Cicero Doran, a living legend here in the city, in his 4th century of service as the captain of the guard."

>>16651841
"An honour Captain Doran. I'd be pleased to see your part of the city once I've seen my men settled in."

>>16651841
"Seeing a proper Degnarian here, sir, is like seeing a gold vein in mudstone. I would be honored to be shown around your city."

>>16651841
We have to put guards on the barracks at night I don't want any bullshit going down on our place while we are here.

>>16651841
A tour sounds good to me.

>>16651910
A good idea. We should make sure nobody goes in or out without permission at all times.

>>16651919

Also no one goes to the city alone, groups of 6 or more for those off duty and certainly not at night.

>>16651945
Damn right. The buddy system exists for a reason.

>>16651945
How about no leave passes issued at all? Buy the men some booze but keep them in the barracks.

If they really want to stretch, have them tour the ships. If anyone gets seasick we ought to find out about it now.

You nod to Sansa, who rides back to inform the rest of the maniple about the restriction on leaving the docks "Of course, I would be honored to see your section of the city, Captain Doran."

The dwarf nods, before leading you on after you dismount, Jayne takin Spites reigns to lead him to your stables. After a few minutes, you reach a large, open field "These, are my training grounds. Every day the residents of my quarter train here."

"Their, children..." you balk.

The dwarf shrugs "Occaisionally, I have the strength to take a dirty whorehouse, a Pynra Palace, or slave market down. There are more than a few children not yet corrupted hiding in those places, they happily accept service in my guard as payment. One of the perks of such a corrupt governor, all of these guards are at least 16 years of age, and therefore legal volunteers."

"Your guard?" you ask as you walk past hte training field to a cordoned off, well guarded street.

"The dock guards. The ones who cant be bought, and enforce the true laws. Not the city guard, corrupt bastards they are. This is the trade-way, only road in the city that never is unfairly taxed or robbed. I guard it more heavily to keep the trash out." A bell starts clanging wildly, followed by a swift horn-blast, interrupting your tour. The dwarf growls "Again?" before shouting "TO OUR WALLS! THE FOOLS WISH TO TRY US AGAIN!!"

>>16652088

We should quietly observe and perhaps spike a criminal leader or two. Not sure what we're wearing, but if possible try to blend in on the "wall"

Well, let's see what the commotion is all about. Maybe we can lend a hand?

>>16652088
"Can we be of any assistance, Captain"

You follow the Captain to the wall separating the docks from the rest of the city "May I be of assistance?"

The dwarf looks out over the wall for a moment before shaking his head and turning to reiterate his order "Kill them!" you are shocked when you look to see town guards bearing down on the gates of the docks "No, this is just the most recent governors latest fit of madness. He is the seventh to believe that he can take controll of the docks himself, and he will be the seventh to fail. This skirmish will take no more than a few hours. By morning you can see to any business you have in the city. Until then, I would suggest you rest from your march, and, inspect your ships. Their beautiful vessels." you look up to see the most famous ship in the Degnarian navy Ghezrobans Wrath, carved out from the Dragon of Ices skull, its ram from the dragons longest, sharpest claw. From its perfect white sides rise half a dozen triangular sails, each one emblazoned with the seal of Degnar. About the Wrath float two dozen more ships in immaculate white. The DragonBone fleet, the finest ships in the Empires posession, waiting to ferry you to the duchy.

>Well, that'll do it for tonight
>Someone archive please
>I should be back tuesday at 9pm server time, if not itll be the same time on thursday, or sunday after that (aint college grand?)
>if you have any setting/quest questions jsut email me at paxcomquest@yahoo.com